Saturday, March 6, 2021
Washington Football Team: 3 cap casualties who flip 2021 NFL Draft plans
Friday, March 5, 2021
Carson Palmer
Palmer turned 38 last week. "Over the years, I’ve had teammates who decided to hang it up and I would ask them how they knew when it was time to walk away," Palmer said in a statement. "The answer was almost always the same: You just know. For me that time is now. Why? Quite simply, I just know." It ends a long, strange trip of a career.
The 2002 Heisman Trophy winner at USC, Palmer was the No. 1 overall pick of the 2003 draft, but spent the entire year behind Jon Kitna on the bench. Palmer's career rapidly progressed after that before a devastating knee injury in the 2005-06 postseason. Palmer was never quite the same, though he was a second-team All-Pro for the Cardinals in 2015.
Jonathan Martin posts gun picture, bullying revenge message, leads to closing of high school
The high school attended by former Dolphins offensive lineman Jonathan Martin closed today because of a social media post from Martin that seemed to hint at school shootings as a source of revenge for bullying.
Martin, who has said he was subjected to bullying both in high school and by teammates in the NFL, posted an image of a shotgun and shells on his protected, private Instagram account, according to the New York Post.
The post included the words, “When you’re a bully victim & a coward, your options are suicide, or revenge.”
Mike Tanier
Mike Tanier taught mathematics in the New Jersey public school system for 17 years before embarking on a full-time sports-writing career.
Starting at Football Outsiders while still a teacher, he became the Sunday NFL preview writer for the New York Times, mixing stats and analysis with off-the-wall humor.
After several years at the Times, Tanier spent two years as the primary NFL writer for Sports on Earth.
An Idiot Guide to Mock Drafts
Each and every year, there is a down time between the end of your beloved team's season, and the excitement that comes with free agency, offseason workouts, and everyone's favorite offseason event - The NFL Draft.
During this period of boring downtime, it can be difficult to work, or even survive. You just don't know what to do with yourself without your beloved football team playing games. We've all been there. Luckily there is a certain activity which can alleviate that boredom. Mock Drafts. You know of them. You see them. All. The. Time.
The Idiot's Guide To The NFL Draft
The 2012 NFL Draft begins tonight. Who will the Niners and Raiders pick? We have no idea! But for the casual football fan who has not been following every Mel Kiper mock draft and Mike Mayock big board, we have assembled a cornucopia of relevant hyperlinks:
You can find Mike Tanier of Yahoo’s two-part breakdown of the first round here and here. Tanier opines that the 49ers will take Stanford offensive tackle Jonathan Martin with the 30th pick and doesn’t have an opinion about the Raiders’ first-round pick because they traded it to Cincinatti for Carson Palmer.
Mike Mayock says Raiders asked too much of failed draft pick Lynn Bowden Jr.
In 2020, the Raiders planned to go to the playoffs. Instead, it was a season full of lessons.
That includes learning how to run a franchise during a pandemic, as every NFL team had to do — and still has to do — as COVID-19 hopefully continues to dissipate and vaccinations take hold.
On Wednesday, Raiders general manager Mike Mayock expressed some regret about his draft philosophy in 2020, when the pandemic first started to grip society. He mentioned to reporters the overall frustration of last year and how he’s better prepared this time around.
2020 NFL full season punting review
You would think that Denver should be a haven for punters. Playing half of your games at roughly one mile above sea level, should make it easier to do you job. Right? Generally you should be able to get more distance on your punts at elevation than at sea level.
Unfortunately for the Denver Broncos, this does not appear to be the case. Bronco punters have fared poorly over the past decade both in Denver and on the road while opposing punters seem to thrive at elevation.
Report: Broncos met virtually with Tulsa linebacker Zaven Collins
According to reports, the Denver Broncos are among the teams that have or will in the future meet virtually with Tulsa linebacker Zaven Collins. He’s a talented linebacker prospect who can do it all and is currently projected to be a first-round selection in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Tulsa's Zaven Collins can do whatever you need him to. Rush the QB, drop in coverage & stop the run. A true chameleon that impacts the game everywhere.
— Justin M (@JustinM_NFL) March 4, 2021
He's met/will meet virtually with the #Saints, #Ravens, #Packers, #Broncos, #Jets, #Patriots, #Titans, #Cardinals & #Seahawks.
Collins is a 6-4, 260-pound linebacker who played his college ball at Tulsa. While there, Collins was asked to stop the run, rush the passer, and drop into coverage. Something he did very well and this versatility should intrigue all interested teams during the draft process.
Broncos 'like the trek' Drew Lock is undertaking as he aims to prove he's Denver's guy in 2021
Drew Lock is going to get another season to prove he's the future at quarterback for the Broncos, it seems.
There are a few good reasons for Lock's additional audition year: His team's new general manager hasn't seen him do it live, yet.
"I haven't seen Drew live on the field. I've just seen the tape," Broncos GM George Paton said Thursday, via team transcript. "There is so much that goes into that when evaluating a quarterback.
Seahawks release suspended WR Josh Gordon
Josh Gordon's next step on his football journey is out of the NFL.
The Seattle Seahawks released Gordon on Thursday, NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported. With his release, Gordon is now eligible to join Fan Controlled Football, where he will reunite with former Browns teammate Johnny Manziel.
It was a move put into motion by Gordon, according to a tweet in which he wrote: "I personally asked Seahawks for release. The contract was expiring but still legally binding."
Thursday, March 4, 2021
Tom Telesco Previews Bolts' 2021 Offseason
Though the 2021 Scouting Combine isn't taking place in Indianapolis as we normally know it, Chargers General Manager Tom Telesco held his annual presser in a virtual format that's becoming more normal as we move through this pandemic.
But as for change? Well, it can be a good thing according to Telesco who discussed how the lack of a typical combine this year has affected this part of the offseason.
"You just need to find the advantages," Telesco said. "We did our scouting meetings a different way this year.
Top Takeaways From Chargers GM Tom Telesco Press Conference
Chargers general manager Tom Telesco had what would have been his NFL Combine press conference, but because they canceled the event in Indianapolis, he had it virtually. Telesco spoke on numerous topics, from what he has noticed working with new head coach Brandon Staley to the state of the team.
This has been a topic for the second offseason in a row. Henry was franchised tagged last season. He was able to make 60 catches for 613 yards and scored four touchdowns while playing in 14 games.
Los Angeles Chargers GM suggests that a Mike Williams trade could be in the cards
Indeed, Mike Williams has played at a high level when he’s been healthy. He recorded 49 receptions for 1,001 yards while leading the NFL by averaging 20.4 yards per catch back in 2019. Williams, 26, fell back down to earth this past season — registering 48 receptions for 756 yards.
The larger issue for the Los Angeles Chargers is Williams’ $15.68 million cap hit for the 2021 season after the team picked up the fifth-year option on the receiver’s rookie deal.
Chargers GM Tom Telesco on tagging TE Hunter Henry: All 'options open right now'
As the franchise tag deadline of March 9 zooms forward and the NFL offseason appears to be the great wide open, it is certainly so for those in powder blue as it concerns standout tight end Hunter Henry.
Having played on the tag in 2020, Henry's future with the Los Angeles Chargers is once more in doubt with the only certainty from the Bolts brass being that everything -- presumably a franchise tag, a long-term deal or losing him in free agency -- is a possibility.
Chiefs FB Anthony Sherman, a former Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion, announces retirement
A one-time Pro Bowler and a one-time Super Bowl champion, Kansas City Chiefs fullback Anthony Sherman is flying off into the sunset of retirement.
Sherman, a 10-year NFL veteran, announced his retirement Thursday in a video he posted on Twitter.
"Kansas City, thanks for all the memories,'' Sherman, 32, said in the video. "It's been a great run: Eight years, Super Bowls. But it's on to the next chapter.''
Former NFL player Kellen Winslow II sentenced to 14 years in prison for rape and sexual assault
Former NFL player Kellen Winslow II was sentenced this week to 14 years in prison for rape and sexual assault, according to the San Diego County District Attorney's office.
The sentence Wednesday was part of a plea agreement, Winslow's attorney Marc Carlos said in a statement to CNN.
"Mr. Winslow was able to avoid the possibility of life in prison should he be convicted of raping multiple victims at trial.
NFL: New York Jets release DE Henry Anderson
The New York Jets released veteran Henry Anderson this week. The defensive end had started 24 games for the Jets since signing on three seasons ago from the Indianapolis Colts.Though he may not have been a regular starter in New York, Anderson was a key figure in the Jets' defensive-line rotation. In 2019 and 2020, he played more snaps (942) than every Jets lineman except should-have-been-Pro Bowler, Quinnen Williams. However, the Jets were stacked with talent across the OL. With Anderson having a lucrative contract, the Jets' hierarchy clearly felt this was the right time to part ways with the Stanford University graduate.
Henry Anderson Personifies Roster-Building Opportunities
GREEN BAY, Wis. – With almost half the NFL over the COVID-impacted salary cap, the wildest offseason in NFL history is on the horizon.
Defensive lineman Henry Anderson personifies what’s to come and the type of player the Green Bay Packers could add to the roster.
The New York Jets released Anderson on Tuesday, shedding his $8.2 million base salary. With that, the Jets are about $75 million under the salary-cap floor of $180 million.
NFL: Who is Marshall Goldberg?
Unless you've been living under a rock for the last few days, you've probably already heard that the now-former Houston Texan, J.J. Watt has joined his former teammate DeAndre Hopkins in Arizona.Watt famously wore the number 99 jersey during his ten-year stint in Houston and has been allocated the same number by the Cardinals. However, many Arizona natives found the news to be of some surprise. The number 99 Cardinals' shirt had been retired since 2006 in honor of former player, Marshall Goldberg (no, I hadn't heard of him either).
NFL: Can the Atlanta Falcons be the first of 12 teams to end its Super Bowl drought?
As of 2021, there are still 12 NFL teams that have never won a Super Bowl. In the AFC, the Tennessee Titans, Los Angeles Chargers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Houston Texans, Cleveland Browns, Cincinnati Bengals, and Buffalo Bills are yet to win a Lombardi trophy.Meanwhile, in the NFC, the Minnesota Vikings, the Detroit Lions, the Carolina Panthers, the Atlanta Falcons, and the Arizona Cardinals have spent years in the proverbial Super Bowl wilderness.
Here, let's cast an eye over the Atlanta Falcons and assess the team's chances of ending fans' long wait for Super Bowl glory.
NFL Scouting Combine: What Is the Wonderlic Test?
The Wonderlic Test is one of the tools used during the annual NFL Scouting Combine to aid NFL scouts in rating potential draft picks. While other facets of the combine are much more physically grueling, the Wonderlic Test is considered somewhat of an "intelligence exam" in the NFL.
The Wonderlic Personality Test was created in 1936 by Eldon F. Wonderlic, as a short-form exam to measure certain functions of a subject's thought patterns. Now known as the Wonderlic Contemporary Cognitive Ability Test, it was originally developed to rate cognitive ability and problem-solving aptitude in common areas like vocabulary, math, and reasoning.
Wild NFL rule change could be coming to overtime games if owners vote through Ravens' proposal, per report
After tweaking its overtime rules multiple times over the past 10 years, the NFL might soon be making another change to the rulebook, except this time around, the rule change would potentially revolutionize how OT games are played.
According to Pro Football Talk, the Ravens have proposed a rule that is based around a "spot-and-choose" concept. Under this rule, which would add some serious spice to overtime, one team would choose the yard line where the overtime drive starts and the other team would choose whether they want to play offense or defense.
The unbelievable 1983 coincidence linking two NFL greats
On March 3, 1983, ‘Tom Brady’ had surgery on the elbow of his throwing arm. That’s not so groundbreaking. Except it wasn’t THE Tom Brady.
“Thomas Brady” was actually an alias used by legendary Steelers quarterback Terry Bradshaw to avoid press finding out about his hospitalisation.
New on SI: Terry Bradshaw Once Had Elbow Surgery Under the Assumed Name ‘Tom Brady’ https://t.co/HO2i6Bmjln
— Pratay Das (@DasDas0015) March 4, 2021
The incredible coincidence linking two Hall of Fame quarterbacks (okay, we’re assuming the greatest QB of all time will be inducted into the HoF – sue us) is blowing NFL fans’ collective minds after a tweet re-sourcing a news article from the time.
Joe Montana admits the obvious: Tom Brady is the NFL's GOAT
There was plenty to take away from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Super Bowl championship last month, but by far the loudest story to emerge from Tampa was the further solidification of Tom Brady's legacy.
By winning a title under a coach not named Bill Belichick, Brady removed what would have been one of the biggest counterarguments against his status as the NFL's consensus greatest of all time had he retired with the New England Patriots.
‘Change the subject’: What Gisele asked Brady after Super Bowl win
There was more to Tom Brady’s post-Super Bowl embrace with wife Gisele Bündchen in Tampa Bay last month.
During an appearance Tuesday on “The Late Late Show with James Corden,” Brady — now the owner of seven Super Bowl titles — spoke about the moments after his Tampa Bay Buccaneers topped the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 2021.
Happy 12th Anniversary Gisele Bundchen and Tom Brady 💍👰🏼❤️@giseleofficial @TomBrady pic.twitter.com/qjDEp8ygDq
— Gisele Bündchen Daily (@giseledaily) February 26, 2021
“I was looking for my family,” the 43-year-old quarterback recalled. “All the sudden I see my oldest son [Jack] run over to me, ‘Dad!’ you know, and I gave a big hug.
Giants release veteran wide receiver Golden Tate in cost-cutting move
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- Wide receiver Golden Tate has been released by the New York Giants in a cost-cutting move.
"I appreciate the conversations and professionalism the Giants management showed me earlier today," Tate wrote Wednesday on social media. "Always a class-act organization from start to finish, your respect means the world to me and my family."
Thank You NYC. ❤️🗽 - Golden Tate III pic.twitter.com/w80TgSv5Ky
— Golden Tate (@ShowtimeTate) March 4, 2021
The move creates $6 million in cap space for the Giants, $10 million if he is designated a post-June 1 cut. Tate was to make $8.5 million and count $11 million against the salary cap in 2021.
Giants news 3/4: Daniel Jones, Takk McKinley, Leonard Williams, more headlines
Daniel Jones New York Giants · QB
This is likely Jones’ last shot to prove he’s The Man in New York. If he stumbles through another mediocre season, both the 2019 first-rounder and GM Dave Gettleman will be out of the picture come 2022.
The NFL is called “Not For Long” by players for a reason. When you are in the business of playing to win, you have to prove your worth or you won’t be around long. Daniel Jones has shown flashes of brilliance while also making head-scratching mistakes.
Golden Tate released by New York Giants two seasons into four-year, $37.5m deal
The 32-year-old had an underwhelming 2020, starting just four of his 12 games and recording 35 receptions for 388 yards and two touchdowns.
Linebacker David Mayo has also been released just one season into his three-year deal. The moves save the Giants $8.4m in cap space.
Writing on social media following his release, Tate said: "I appreciate the conversations and professionalism the Giants management showed me earlier today.
Sam Darnold: New York Jets GM Joe Douglas to listen to calls on quarterback
That position is of stark contrast to the call Douglas made last season on Darnold, who has struggled to get up to speed since being selected by the Jets with the third overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.
Darnold, 23, showed modest improvement from his rookie year to his second season. His touchdown total improved from 17 to 19, his interception total dropped from 15 to 13 and he completed a higher percentage of his passes (57.7 per cent in 2018, 61.9 per cent in 2019).
An NFL basketcase just made a huge backflip — and it could trigger chaos in the draft
THE NEW YORK JETS ARE APPARENTLY DECIDING BETWEEN SAM DARNOLD AND ZACH WILSON
#Jets GM Joe Douglas tells reporters that he’ll answer calls pertaining to potentially trading QB Sam Darnold, though there is no firm decision on which way it’ll go. He also said he’s had “productive” talks with agent @ErikBurkhardt on S Marcus Maye, a tag candidate.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 3, 2021
New York Jets GM Joe Douglas open to Sam Darnold offers, downplays idea of trading for a star player
FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- The New York Jets, who once considered quarterback Sam Darnold an untouchable asset, are open to listening to trade offers.
"I will answer the call if it's made," general manager Joe Douglas said Wednesday in a videoconference with reporters, confirming previous reports that the Jets are willing to field inquiries.
An NFL basketcase just made a huge backflip — and it could trigger chaos in the draft
New York Jets general manager Joe Douglas has a message for any teams interested in trading for Jets quarterback Sam Darnold: Call me.
Douglas confirmed Wednesday that he will not hang up the phone if teams inquire about Darnold, a reversal of what he said in October 2019, when he deemed the quarterback untouchable.
Waiting for big Broncos news isn’t easy
Wednesday, March 3, 2021
The Broncos are in excellent cap position for the 2021 offseason
As we’ve seen them make some moves to release good players that are expensive (Jurrel Casey and A.J. Bouye come to mind), it begs the question, “What is the Broncos cap situation right now?”
Taking a peek at the great work at https://overthecap.com/salary-cap/denver-broncos/ we see the Broncos as it stands, appear to have just north of $42 million in space.
Broncos select QB Justin Fields in 2021 NFL mock draft
In her first 2021 mock draft, NFL.com’s Cynthia Frelund has the Denver Broncos selecting Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields with the ninth overall pick, but there’s a catch.
Frelund included a disclaimer above her mock that explained she is “NOT attempting to predict or divine what teams will ACTUALLY DO on draft day.” So what is she trying to do? Frelund used analytics to project win-contribution metrics for her picks. (Read the full explainer on NFL.com.)
Chris Simms
Christopher David Simms (born August 29, 1980) is a former NFL quarterback who was drafted in the third round of the 2003 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who also played for the Denver Broncos and Tennessee Titans during the course of his playing career. Chris, who played college football for the Texas Longhorns, is the son of former New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms and the older brother of NFL quarterback Matt Simms.
Chris Simms' 2021 NFL Draft QB ranking is out; Trevor Lawrence isn't No. 1 — and neither is Justin Fields
Trevor who?
Former NFL quarterback and current NFL analyst Chris Simms has made waves in the past for his yearly NFL draft quarterback rankings and breakdowns.
My 2021 Draft QB Rankings. Taping the podcast soon with full breakdown/explanation. pic.twitter.com/dkzlcKeZEJ
— Chris Simms (@CSimmsQB) March 3, 2021
This year's edition was released on the March 3 edition of "PFT Live," and featured several surprising picks — most notably, the "generational" talent of Trevor Lawrence isn't No. 1, and neither is Ohio State's Justin Fields. Rather, it's BYU passer Zach Wilson.
Washington Football Team replaces cheerleaders with coed dance squad
The team had announced last month that the cheerleader program was paused while it decided what direction the rebranding would take. Petra Pope, hired by the team as a senior adviser focused on creating game-day entertainment, said the goal is to create a "more modern franchise."
Ex-NFL player Kellen Winslow II faces sentencing for rapes
SAN DIEGO -- Kellen Winslow II — once the highest-paid tight end in the NFL — could face more than a decade in prison for multiple rapes and other sexual offenses against five women in Southern California, including one who was homeless when he attacked her in 2018.
Winslow will appear via videoconference at the hearing Wednesday in San Diego Superior Court. He has been in custody since 2019 and was expected to be sentenced in March 2020 but that hearing was postponed due to court closures amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Peter King (NBC)
Peter King, 60, joined NBC Sports Group exclusively in July of 2018. One of the most prolific and respected NFL writers for decades, King writes a popular Monday morning NFL column each week exclusively for NBCSports.com. He also makes weekly appearances on NBCSN’s and NBC Sports Radio’s PFT Live with Mike Florio, and continues to contribute to Football Night in America, which he has worked on in some capacity since its inception in 2006.
King has also resumed his popular NFL training camp tour for NBCSports.com, filing his column from the road each Monday and providing occasional video or written reports from team to team throughout the preseason. He reports for NBC Sports Digital on numerous events throughout the year, including regular season games, a conference championship game, the Super Bowl, the NFL Scouting Combine, the start of free agency, and the NFL Draft.
Colts News: Mike Tannenbaum explains why he ripped into Colts for Carson Wentz trade
Ex-Colts GM Mike Tannenbaum explains his stance on Colts-Wentz trade
"When you give up two high picks like they did, you’re fully committing that this will be your quarterback for the next decade."
Colts will host Tom Brady in 2021, according to report
NBC Sports' Peter King is reporting that the Colts' 17th game will be at home against Tampa Bay and Tom Brady
History of NFL teams trading first-round draft picks for veterans: Winners, losers from last five years
Tuesday, March 2, 2021
Kyle Van Noy 'surprised, disappointed' after Dolphins release linebacker to free up cap space
Time and again players are reminded the NFL is a business. The Miami Dolphins are the latest team to send that memo and the recipient of the moment is linebacker Kyle Van Noy, who was informed by the team he would be released, per Mike Garafolo of NFL Network. It's a decision that outright stunned the two-time Super Bowl winner, who made that clear not long following the news being made public.
"I am surprised and disappointed in their decision," Van Noy told Garafolo. "As a captain, I gave my all to the team. I fought through a painful hip injury during the season, including spending a night in the hospital after a game. I was brought there to be a leader and I know my teammates looked up to and respected me.
Dolphins inform LB Kyle Van Noy he will be released
A once lofty free-agent signing has morphed into a surprising cap casualty for the Dolphins.
NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reported Tuesday that Miami has informed linebacker Kyle Van Noy that he will be released after one season.
"I am surprised and disappointed in their decision. As a captain, I gave my all to the team," said Van Noy in a statement obtained by Garafolo. "I fought through a painful injury during the season, including spending a night in the hospital after a game. I was brought there to be a leader and I know my teammates looked up to and respected me.
Minnesota Vikings release TE Kyle Rudolph after 10 seasons
MINNEAPOLIS -- The Minnesota Vikings have released veteran tight end Kyle Rudolph after 10 seasons, the team announced on Tuesday.
The move saves Minnesota $5.1 million against the salary cap for 2021. Rudolph, 31, will become a free agent for the first time in his NFL career.
The former second-round draft pick of the Vikings in 2011 issued a heartfelt goodbye in a story published by The Players' Tribune reflecting on his 10 seasons in Minnesota.
J.J. WATT GETS PERMISSION TO WEAR #99 WITH CARDINALS ... After Call W/ Marshall Goldberg's Daughter
8:50 AM PT -- This story just got even better!!!
After we posted our interview with Marshall Goldberg's daughter, we're told J.J. Watt himself called her up and had a great conversation about the number.
We're told Ellen Goldberg Tullos was impressed by Watt and told him she has his blessing to rock the number.
As a token of his appreciation, we're told J.J. asked if her dad had a charity foundation where he could make a donation in his honor.
Former Alabama DL, Quinnen Williams said Tua Tagovailoa will not struggle in second NFL season
He was 6-3 in his rookie season as the starting quarterback for the Miami Dolphins, but the jury is out on how good Tua Tagovailoa can be at the position.
After being selected No. 5 overall in the 2020 NFL Draft, he totaled 1,814 passing yards with 11 touchdowns to five interceptions.
The native Hawaiian flashed signs of potential greatness with a pair of 300-yard passing performances; however, Justin Herbert and Joe Burrow posted better numbers as rookies last season.
Miami Dolphins Tua Tagovailoa playing for New England next year?
No, the Miami Dolphins will not trade Tua Tagovailoa to the New England Patriots. That would be just plain dumb but that doesn’t mean Tua wouldn’t necessarily end up there anyway.
Former Alabama DL, Quinnen Williams said Tua Tagovailoa will not struggle in second NFL seasonhttps://t.co/4dFD4LfPAF
— Stephen M. Smith (@CoachingMSmith) March 2, 2021
A couple of guys over at ProFootballFocus have a theory and scenario that could put the Miami Dolphins current QB up north. The summation is quite simple and while I would, at this point, call it highly unlikely, the more I think about it, the more it could actually happen.
Pittsburgh Steelers free-agency overview: Retooling offense on a budget
Pittsburgh -- The Pittsburgh Steelers enter 2021 NFL free agency coming off a 12-4 season in 2020 and have 19 unrestricted free agents.
Because of the cap crunch created by the COVID-19-related salary cap drop and their back-loaded contracts, the Steelers don't have much money to use in free agency.
It's @afan66❗
— Hall of Fame Experiences (@HOFExperiences) March 2, 2021
See the @steelers legend enter the @ProFootballHOF this August with an Official Ticket Package➡️ https://t.co/ngGwhtCPUE pic.twitter.com/ZrivF9QJ2U
Though they've vowed to reduce quarterback Ben Roethlisberger's cap hit for the 2021 season, the Steelers still sit at more than $22 million over the salary cap with less than a month until the new league year opens.
Browns hire Jonathan Decoster as offensive quality control coach
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Browns’ lone new face on their coaching staff in 2021 will come across some familiar faces in his new home. The team named Jonathan Decoster as offensive quality control coach on Monday.
Cleveland #Browns have hired Jonathan Decoster as an Offensive Quality Control coach, Decoster has connections with the team https://t.co/cp68TEozdO
— Brandon Little (@BrandonLittleSI) March 1, 2021
Decoster, who played at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, began his coaching career as a graduate assistant offensive line coach at Nevada in 2013 and 2014 where he worked with Browns left guard Joel Bitonio, drafted in the second round in 2014.
Browns didn’t offer J.J. Watt more than the Cardinals despite a report to the contrary, source says
CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Browns didn’t offer more for J.J. Watt than the Arizona Cardinals, a league source tells cleveland.com.
According to John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports Radio 98.7 FM in Phoenix, the Browns and Colts offered more money than the Cardinals, and Tennessee’s offer was similar.
The deal JJ Watt signed with the Cardinals was NOT the most he was offered. The Cleveland Browns and Indianapolis Colts each offered more money. Tennessee's offer was very similar.
— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) March 1, 2021
The Cardinals on Monday signed Watt, the three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, to a two-year deal worth $31 million, with $23 million guaranteed.
Family of Cardinals great Marshall Goldberg gives J.J. Watt ‘blessing’ to wear 99
After the dust settled Monday on J.J. Watt’s surprise signing with Arizona (the three-time Defensive Player of the Year reportedly chose the Cardinals over more lucrative offers from both Cleveland and Indianapolis), the focus quickly turned to Watt’s yet-to-be-determined uniform number.
Watt, whose 101 sacks ranks second among active pass-rushers (former Super Bowl MVP Von Miller leads the way at 106), has worn 99 for the entirety of his NFL career and even before that at his alma mater Wisconsin.
Marshall Goldberg's daughter gives Cardinals DE J.J. Watt her blessing to wear No. 99
J.J. Watt is headed to the desert, and he's received quite the compliment from the family of a Cardinals legend before he's even arrived.
Watt has worn No. 99 for the entirety of his career previously spent exclusively in Houston. Now that he's going to Glendale, he'll need to determine his numerical identity, and his typical number is retired by the Cardinals, who sent the jersey to the rafters in honor of running back Marshall Goldberg. Goldberg's daughter, Ellen Goldberg Tullos, told TMZ Sports she gives the Cardinals her permission to unretire her father's number in order for Watt to wear it in 2021 and beyond.
Detroit Lions free agency overview: Many holes and not much space to fill them
ALLEN PARK, Mich. -- The Detroit Lions enter 2021 NFL free agency coming off a 5-11 season in 2020 and have 18 unrestricted free agents.
The Lions could attempt to make some moves in free agency, but it doesn’t feel like the team will. That’s for a few different reasons, starting with not having that much room to maneuver under the cap considering the contract Jared Goff will bring on and the dead money hit Matthew Stafford’s deal will entail. Plus, this is not a team expected to contend immediately and general manager Brad Holmes has made it clear he’s going to build through the draft.
3 reasons Jared Goff is the Lions starting quarterback
The Detroit Lions are rebuilding but they might not be pigeon-holed into selecting their quarterback of the future in the first round of the 2021 NFL draft next month. The team did receive quarterback Jared Goff in return for trading quarterback Matthew Stafford to the Los Angeles Rams.
While the Lions hold the seventh overall pick, they don’t need to use that pick or trade up to get one of the best quarterbacks in the draft. They can focus on other areas of the roster that need improvement with a blue-chip draft pick instead. And here are three reasons why.
NFL free agency 2021: Nine stars who could be traded this offseason and teams that fit their style of play
This NFL offseason isn't waiting to heat up the headlines, with quarterbacks Matthew Stafford and Jared Goff switching places and Carson Wentz being shipped away to the Indianapolis Colts. But that's seemingly just the beginning of what's to come -- considering it all happened before the month of February expired.
The Houston Texans are still standing firm on not trading a wildly disgruntled Deshaun Watson, at least for now, but they made other news by releasing future Hall of Fame pass rusher J.J. Watt, who quickly and unexpectedly found a new home with the Arizona Cardinals.
From Matthew Stafford to Trevor Lawrence? Detroit Lions trade cost
The Detroit Lions are in a transition and many fans do not feel that Jared Goff is the answer. We know that many fans would love to see a franchise quarterback like Trevor Lawrence come to the Motor City after moving on from Matthew Stafford.
What trade offer could Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes make that would entice the Jacksonville Jaguars, owners of the top pick in the 2021 NFL Draft?
You have to admit, Detroit Lions fans, that going from Matthew Stafford to Trevor Lawrence would have to feel somewhat like when the Indianapolis Colts went from Peyton Manning to Andrew Luck.
Chiefs tackles Eric Fisher, Mitch Schwartz may be ready for Week 1
Well, this was not something we were expecting. Kansas City Chiefs tackles Eric Fisher and Mitch Schwartz may be ready to participate in training camp, according to Chiefs general manager Brett Veach, who spoke to the media via Zoom on Monday morning.
Fisher tore his Achilles during the AFC title game, and Schwartz had back issues throughout the 2020 season.
“Mitch just recently had his disc worked on,” said Veach. “We’re hopeful for him to return at training camp, and the same thing with Fish... We’re hopeful both guys will complete the rehab and be available for training camp and to start the 2021 season.
Chandler Jones feels bad for Russell Wilson after Cardinals addition of J.J. Watt
Russell Wilson‘s clamoring for more help along the offensive line in Seattle is only going to be heightened now that the Arizona Cardinals have added J.J. Watt to their defensive line.
Wilson already had to see Aaron Donald twice a season for the last seven years with the Los Angeles Rams. Now Watt is teaming up with standout pass rusher Chandler Jones in Arizona to bring more firepower to the NFC West.
JJ Watt stuns NFL with decision to join Cardinals: 'Life is good in Arizona'
JJ Watt is officially a member of the Arizona Cardinals. On Monday, the three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year tweeted a photo of himself while lifting weights in a Cardinals shirt.
"source: me," Watt wrote as the caption.
Watt reportedly agreed to a two-year deal worth $31 million, with $23 million guaranteed. He will reunite with former Houston Texans teammate DeAndre Hopkins, who was traded to Arizona last offseason, and Watt will once again work with Cardinals defensive coordinator Vance Joseph, who coached him in Houston.
Bargain Bin Free Agency Can Make a Difference
Looming free agency seemed a likely reason for the loss of Bears defensive depth, if not one starter.
Defensive ends Kevin Pierre-Louis and Brent Urban, nose tackle John Jenkins and starting safety Tashaun Gipson all are heading into free agency for a team already hurt last year by erosion of depth.
Defensive Free Agent Issues Can Eat at #Bears Depth - Sports Illustrated Defensive Free Agent Issues Can Eat at Bears Depth Sports Illustrated https://t.co/2eJ2W1TKiU #dabears #chicagobears #beardown pic.twitter.com/TrOk2G52WM
— Aleks Kins DaBears! (@Aleks_Kins_NFL) February 25, 2021
If Pro Football Focus is at all accurate in cash assessments like it claims to be with metrics of varying sorts, then the Bears need not worry about losing defensive depth.
Bears Begin House Cleaning
The course of Bears actions in free agency and the draft could become known or at least more obvious on Tuesday when GM Ryan Pace and coach Matt Nagy meet with media members via Zoom.
One thing is known already, and that's the future at nickel cornerback will not include Buster Skrine.
This strategy is fundamentally sound. Which is why a @ChicagoBears fan it scares the shit out of me. Perhaps us fans begging for Wentz would be our best course of action to ensure he does not end up here.
— Mark Murphy (@Murph4Mark4) February 7, 2021
The first of several Bears moves regarding the salary cap was one reported Monday by ESPN's Adam Schefter as Skrine is being released.
Chalk Talk: How will COVID-19 change draft prep?
It was reported by multiple media outlets in late January that, because of COVID-19 concerns, the NFL will prohibit prospects from visiting team facilities or meeting with teams at other locations. That includes private workouts, dinners, interviews, film sessions and medical exams. Teams can only have in-person contact with prospects at their respective on-campus Pro Days, with teams limited to three members of their organization in attendance. As was the case after everything shut down last March, the majority of contact between teams and prospects likely will occur via telephone and video conferencing.
Kiper sees 2021 draft as historic one for QBs
In his latest mock draft, ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. is predicting that five quarterbacks will be selected among the first nine picks.
Kiper thinks it's highly unlikely that any of the five will still be on the board when the Bears go on the clock at No. 20.
"I would be very surprised if one dropped to 20," Kiper said Monday during a 90-minute call with the national media.
Mel Kiper Jr.
Mel Kiper Jr. has served as an expert analyst for ESPN's annual NFL draft coverage since 1984, providing in-depth information on the nation's most talented college football players.
His pre-draft predictions are frequently the most accurate in the business, often as much as 80 percent correct on first-round selections. He also has a Web page (www.espn.go.com/melkiper), linked off of ESPN.com, that launched in 2000.
We're talking Mock 2.0 for a full hour on ESPN2, starting now.https://t.co/MttyvMqUFO
— Mel Kiper Jr. (@MelKiperESPN) February 25, 2021
Kiper is also analyst for "College GameDay" on ESPN Radio, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturdays throughout the season. Additionally, he is a frequent contributor to ESPN's award-winning "SportsCenter" during the NFL and college football seasons and provides occasional updates throughout the year.
Bears set to celebrate Women's History Month
The Bears will celebrate Women's History Month by recognizing females from across the organization on official team channels throughout March. Fans are encouraged to follow along to learn about the important roles women play at the Bears.
First Lady of the NFL
The NFL will get its first transgender owner during Women’s History Month when everyone is celebrating that.
— Priest (@Priest_Syrinx) March 2, 2021
ChicagoBears.com senior writer Larry Mayer will highlight the impact that Bears owner Virginia Halas McCaskey has had on both the club and NFL.
Bears add former Texas HC Tom Herman to coaching staff
Tom Herman has cracked the NFL coaching ranks with a unique title.
The former University of Texas and University of Houston head coach has joined the Bears as an offensive analyst and special projects assistant, the team announced on Monday.
The latter portion of Herman's title makes his hiring an interesting one. "Special projects" tends to be an adjective used for a manager's title in an office building, not an NFL club's headquarters on its coaching staff, but considering how the Bears' offense fared for most of 2020, they could use a special project or two.
Bears add former Texas coach Herman to staff
The Bears on Monday announced the hiring of former Texas head coach Tom Herman as an offensive analyst/special projects.
Herman compiled a 32-18 record with the Longhorns the past four seasons, including a 4-0 mark in bowl games. In 2018, he led Texas to a 10-4 record capped by a 28-21 win over Georgia in the Sugar Bowl. Last year the Longhorns finished 7-3 and beat Colorado 55-23 in the Alamo Bowl.
Prior to arriving at Texas, Herman posted a 22-4 record in two seasons as head coach at the University of Houston. In 2015, he guided the Cougars to a 13-1 mark, including a 38-24 victory over Florida State in the Peach Bowl.
Monday, March 1, 2021
Individual and collective recognition
There are plenty of numbers available for reference that accurately depict the impact of the Steelers' defense on the team and on the NFL in 2020.
The number 2 is as appropriate as any.
Outside linebacker T.J. Watt and free safety Minkah Fitzpatrick were both named First-Team All-Pro by the Associated Press.
The Rams and Colts were the only other teams in the league with two first-team All-Pros on defense.
Progress, potential and motivation
For Diontae Johnson, his second season in the NFL had a little bit of everything. There were the ups and downs, the good moments, and the disappointments.
But overall, there was one thing that was consistent across the board.
Progress.
"I saw progress in all aspects of my game," said Johnson. "In my route running, knowing the game more, route coverages. Everything.
Steelers reportedly have meeting with dynamic Auburn wide receiver
The Pittsburgh Steelers don’t necessarily have a huge need for a wide receiver, but if they are unable to retain JuJu Smith-Schuster, the need for another wide receiver becomes amplified.
For the global Steelers fan base, this should be something you are comfortable with. After all, there is a reason the Steelers are considered a wide receiver factory under General Manager Kevin Colbert.
Steelers’ JuJu Smith-Schuster leaves curious IG comment for teammate ahead of free agency
The Pittsburgh Steelers have a lot of questions to figure out as free agency approaches. Perhaps the biggest question, besides Ben Roethlisberger, is that of wide receiver Juju Smith-Schuster.
The status of Smith-Schuster is uncertain at best, and the former USC standout left an interesting comment on an Instagram post.
Hmmm pic.twitter.com/1ezM9CTdOJ
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) February 28, 2021
Zach Banner, a former offensive lineman for the Steelers, posted on Instagram about a new contract. However, JuJu Smith-Schuster’s comment is a bit of a strange one and might be a sign of what’s going to happen in the Steel City.
JuJu Smith-Schuster free agency 2021: Latest news, rumors, scouting report and interested teams
JuJu Smith-Schuster has -- on multiple occasions -- expressed his love for Pittsburgh, the Steelers and his desire to continue his legacy with the black and gold. Smith-Schuster's feelings for Pittsburgh and the Steelers is mutual, as the receiver has been a fan favorite since his breakout rookie campaign.
With an unlimited cap, Smith-Schuster and the Steelers would come to terms on a multiyear contract. But in reality, Smith-Schuster staying in Pittsburgh is difficult, considering his expected market value and the team's cap limitations. For his part, Smith-Schuster has said that he is not looking to make his market value, which according to Spotrac is roughy $16.1 million per season.
2021 NFL Mock Draft: Eagles roll dice on QB in Round 1, Dolphins target receiver at No. 3
This draft, like every other draft, is about the quarterbacks. Specifically: Which QB-needy team will move up -- and how far -- to get the player they've convinced themselves will be the face of the franchise for the next dozen years. Trevor Lawrence is going to Jacksonville -- that has felt like a done deal for months -- but things immediately get interesting after that.
In this week's mock draft, we have the Jets, Falcons, Eagles and Lions selecting quarterbacks, which means five QBs are off the board in the first eight selections. Meanwhile, five wide receivers hear their names called while seven edge rushers find themselves among the first 32 picks.
DeAndre Hopkins, Budda Baker, other NFL stars react to J.J. Watt signing with Cardinals
J.J. Watt has been one of the most sought-after commodities in free agency, and on Monday he reached a decision. In an announcement on his Twitter account (not on Peloton!), Watt revealed that he's signing with the Arizona Cardinals. According to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, Watt is signing a two-year deal that will be worth $31 million with $23 million of that being guaranteed.
Last month, Watt asked for his release from the Texans and the franchise granted the veteran pass rusher's wish. Now the three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year is reunited with former Texans teammate DeAndre Hopkins in Arizona and will join a daunting pass rush that also includes Chandler Jones.
Anwar Khawaja Industries
Meet Cynt Marshall: From one of Berkeley's first Black cheerleaders to the first Black woman CEO in NBA
The billionaire NBA owner has become known both for his business-savviness and his brutally honest opinions.
When Mark Cuban contacted Cynt Marshall about joining the Dallas Mavericks three years ago, however, Marshall’s ignorance emerged.
“I didn’t know who he was,” Marshall told USA TODAY Sports about Cuban. “I had a big job. I’m raising four kids. I just didn’t know who he was.”
Buccaneers cheerleader trades poms for scrubs as nurse at Tampa General Hospital
TAMPA, Fla. - From bedsides in the intensive care unit to the sidelines of Raymond James Stadium, a Tampa General Hospital critical care nurse is doing double-duty, working at the hospital and cheering for the Buccaneers.
"I take care of surgical patients mainly, from right when they leave the operating room to when they’re ready to leave the ICU," explained registered nurse Anastasia Lusnia.
Cardinals superfan, Arizona health care worker will be inducted into Hall of Fame
Kristi Brown is used to spending a lot of time at State Farm Stadium. She even calls it her home away from home.
She's a die-hard Cardinals fan and has been going to games since she was 3, back when they played in Tempe. These days, she works as a labor and delivery nurse at Banner Health, in the same hospital where she was born. She was a Cardinals cheerleader for two years and a season-ticket holder for two decades.
How the NFL Risks the Health of Cheerleaders, Its Hardest Working, Lowest Paid Women
Watching NFL cheerleaders perform for limited or nonexistent crowds with masks obscuring their white strip-sponsored smiles was one of the more off-putting spectacles of 2020. In spite of the coronavirus pandemic, they waved pom-poms and danced, all with unflinching loyalty to the godforsaken game of football.
But the uncanny presence of cheerleaders during a global health meltdown snowballed into something more ominous when two individuals with knowledge of the Los Angeles Rams said that the organization was not providing or requiring covid-19 tests for its cheerleaders throughout 2020.
WATCH: Washington Football Team cheerleaders claim they were prematurely dismissed during faceless Zoom call
Four cheerleaders on the Washington Football Team detail how their season was unexpectedly suspended during a brief Feb. 8 Zoom call and react to a culture where they say they were undervalued and isolated by the organization.
Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders will still be at home games but won't be on the field
The cheerleaders will perform at home games for fans at AT&T Stadium but will be relegated to the touchdown decks on each end zone.
Fans looking to see Rowdy the Cowboy or any Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders on the field this season at AT&T Stadium will have to look elsewhere, the team said Wednesday.
3 reasons Jameis Winston, not Russell Wilson, should be Saints top priority
If you have been following the unfolding rumors surrounding the Saints’ need for a future quarterback and the Seahawks’ willingness to let go of Rusell Wilson, you have most likely been in agreeance, confused, or amused at the situation.
Wherever you stand on the matter, one thing is for sure, the Saints could be a better team with Wilson. However, does the price that Wilson is going to cost the black and gold outweigh the cost of bringing back current quarterback Jameis Winston?
With all the buzz around Russell Wilson, don’t forget that Saints quarterback Jameis Winston is still the best option for the team.
Sean McVay takes partial blame Jared Goff's decline with Rams: 'I could have done better'
Jared Goff led the Los Angeles Rams to a Super Bowl in 2019.
Now, two years later, the former No. 1 overall pick is out of Los Angeles. Coach Sean McVay is moving on — but he’s not doing so without any of the blame.
“When you look back at the four years that we did have together, there’s a lot of times you can smile on,” McVay said, via the NFL Network. “And I would say there’s a lot of things that when I self-reflect, I certainly wish I was better for him in some instances … I’m not going to run away from the things that I could have been better for him as a leader and as a coach."
Goff and two future first round draft picks were traded to the Detroit Lions in exchange for Matthew Stafford last month.
2021 NFL Draft: Los Angeles Rams 7-round mock
It’s fair to say the Rams aren’t an organization overly concerned with hanging onto their draft picks. Los Angeles enters the 2021 draft with just three total selections. The team has one pick to make in Round 3, Round 6, and Round 7.
That doesn’t give the Rams’ front office enough draft capital to really remake their roster. The good news is that Los Angeles doesn’t need to overhaul the group that won 10 games last year.
Matthew Stafford Dons Rams Gear in Mexico
There has been no shortage of quarterback movement already this offseason, and we're still several weeks away from the start of NFL free agency. Matthew Stafford and Jared Goff swapped teams in a blockbuster trade back in January, while Carson Wentz was dealt to the Indianapolis Colts in February.
What will be the next domino to fall?
My guess is it won't be too long until Dak Prescott and Jameis Winston are retained by the Dallas Cowboys and New Orleans Saints, respectively. Prescott, who's recovering from an injury that sidelined him for most of last season, could be in line to receive the franchise tag for the second straight year before getting signed to a long-term deal -- and Jerry Jones has publicly voiced support for the idea of locking up Prescott. Winston, on the other hand, could seamlessly step into Sean Payton's offense if Drew Brees decides to retire.
NFL World Reacts To The Alex Smith Decision News
Despite making an incredible comeback with the Washington Football Team and doing the heavy lifting for them en route to winning the NFC East title, Alex Smith will not be returning to the team in 2021.
NFL insiders Ian Rapoport and Kim Jones reported this morning that the team will be parting ways with Smith “in the coming days.” But the 36-year-old signal caller is reportedly determined to continue playing.
In 2020, Alex Smith returned in Week 5 after missing the previous 1.5 years of football with a life-threatening leg injury. He went 5-1 as a starter and completed 66.7-percent of his passes with 1,582 yards and six touchdown passes. Smith would win Comeback Player of the Year for his efforts.
Washington expected to part ways with QB Alex Smith
Alex Smith's incredible comeback proved to be his last hurrah in the nation's capital.
Washington is expected to part ways with the veteran quarterback in the coming days, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport and NFL Network's Kim Jones reported Monday, per informed sources.
Smith suffered a gruesome leg injury in 2018 and underwent 17 operations to initially repair and later save his leg from amputation, missing all of 2019 before overcoming all realistic expectations to make his return in 2020.
Washington to part ways with Alex Smith in coming days, following Comeback Player of Year season
When Washington Football Team quarterback Alex Smith went public last week with how the franchise did not seem to support him in his miraculous return from a serious leg injury, it appeared to signal the end of his time in Washington. According to a new report, that breakup will come sooner rather than later.
On Monday morning, Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network reported that Washington is expected to part ways with Smith in the coming days. The report was confirmed by CBS Sports NFL Insider Jonathan Jones. Releasing Smith will reportedly save nearly $15 million.
While Washington hasn't had consistency at the quarterback position since the Kirk Cousins days, Smith was without a doubt the best option they have had over the past three years.
Center Nick Martin could be on Arizona Cardinals wish list
Arizona Cardinals offensive line coach/run game coordinator Sean Kugler had some interesting thoughts on the squad’s situation at center this past week. The experienced assistant, who joined the organization back in 2019, has let it be known that a change at the position could be in order. Kugler remarked that “the center position overall needs to take the next step and get better”, and there are fans of the Cardinals who may be in complete agreement with that assessment.
One way that the Cards could address that issue is through free agency. There are several interesting names who could be available when the signing period gets underway on March 17th. Actually, there’s one particular center who’s eligible to ink a deal with whatever franchise he chooses right now.
Bengals could target recent Texans cap cut Nick Martin
The Cincinnati Bengals could go bargain shopping this offseason in free agency while picking up players cut by other teams.
Normally that might sound like a rather cheap thing to do, though this year’s reduced salary cap could mean teams get desperate and cut some really solid players while trying to make the money side of things work.
And the Houston Texans might be one of those teams.
What the Arizona Cardinals must do to contend in NFC West
But let’s not rehash on the hash of what could have been in 2020. The Arizona Cardinals collapsed harder than the 2003 Minnesota Vikings (who they ironically kept out of the playoffs that season) and finished 8-8, missing out on the NFL playoffs.
That said, it’s clear the Cardinals still have their work cut out for them if they want to take the next step and improve upon their 8-8 record. Even worse, they’re playing in the NFL’s toughest division. And compared to the Seattle Seahawks, Los Angeles Rams, and San Francisco 49ers, they’re the weakest link.
Drama in Seattle should be enjoyed by Arizona Cardinals fans
For the longest time, Arizona Cardinals fans have been relatively at the mercy of Russell Wilson. The 37-34 OT win this past season was Arizona’s first win at home against Seattle since 2012, Wilson’s rookie year. While there have been more road victories for the red birds, not being able to get it done at home has cost them dearly.
The tie in 2016 at home was about the most infuriating game to watch as it ended in a 6-6 tie that is still embarrassing to this day. in 2017, it was the absolutely stupid-playmaking ability of Wilson to connect with an open receiver on a 3rd and 21 after scrambling for what seemed like forever.
Russell Wilson, Chicago Bear? NFL Trade Buzz Grows Hectic
Could Russell Wilson become a Chicago Bear? Or how about a Dallas Cowboy? Or a Las Vegas Raider? Or a New Orleans Saint?
(Wilson could also become a New York Yankee, technically—his professional baseball career, were it to happen, still leads to the Bronx.)
Warning: This is all highly speculative. Don’t buy a new jersey just yet. None of this may happen. It’s quite possible Wilson winds up where he’s always been, in Seattle, as the quarterback of the Seahawks, a club he led to a Super Bowl title in the 2013 season.
Top 100 players in Arizona Cardinals franchise history: No’s 50 to 41
Not only is the NFL celebrating 100 years so are the Arizona Cardinals. Starting in Chicago then to St. Louis, and then finally landing in the desert in Arizona in 1988.
They’ve now been in the desert 30 of those 100 years. Here we count down from numbers 50-41. # 50 Conrad Dobler
The gritty, hard-nosed offensive line guard spent six seasons with the Cardinals in St. Louis after being drafted in the fifth round of the 1972 draft. He played a total of 10 seasons, four after leaving the Cardinals in a trade.
Jodie Foster thanks Aaron Rodgers in her Golden Globe speech
Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers gained plenty of attention in the entertainment world during his NFL MVP award acceptance speech. Rodgers not only thanked his fiancee Shailene Woodley, but also fellow actress Jodie Foster. So, it was only fair that the two-time Academy Award-winner returned the favor.
During the 78th edition of the Golden Globe Awards on Sunday, Foster won for Best Performance by an Actress in Supporting Role in Any Motion Picture for her work in the film, The Mauritanian. As she accepted the honor from her home, she sent a thank you to the Packers quarterback!
Center Nick Martin could be on Arizona Cardinals wish list
Arizona Cardinals offensive line coach/run game coordinator Sean Kugler had some interesting thoughts on the squad’s situation at center this past week. The experienced assistant, who joined the organization back in 2019, has let it be known that a change at the position could be in order. Kugler remarked that “the center position overall needs to take the next step and get better”, and there are fans of the Cardinals who may be in complete agreement with that assessment.
One way that the Cards could address that issue is through free agency. There are several interesting names who could be available when the signing period gets underway on March 17th. Actually, there’s one particular center who’s eligible to ink a deal with whatever franchise he chooses right now.
Son of former Green Bay Packer loses dad's Super Bowl ring
The son of a former Green Bay Packer says he is heartbroken after losing his father’s Super Bowl II ring, and he is offering a $5,000 reward for its return.
Mike Kostelnik told the Green Bay Press-Gazette that he believes he lost the ring that belonged to his dad, former Packers defensive tackle Ron Kostelnik, last weekend when he and his family went to visit his daughter at Indiana University and take another daughter to tour Miami University in Ohio.
He said he had been wearing the ring but took it off and stored it in the car's console.
Jodie Foster explains why she thanked Aaron Rodgers at Globes: 'I didn’t set up Shailene and Aaron'
Jodie Foster raised eyebrows when she thanked Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers during her Golden Globes acceptance speech for best supporting actress in "The Mauritanian."
So what was that all about?
Foster excitedly explained backstage in the virtual Golden Globes media room about that call-out to Rodgers, who just happens to be engaged to Foster's "The Mauritanian" co-star Shailene Woodley. She might love Rodgers even more than Woodley, leading to that special call-out.
NFL Saturday Night Football FanDuel Player Picks: Buccaneers vs. Washington
Before we discuss FanDuel player selections for Saturday’s game, let’s briefly review the rules for the FanDuel single game contest.
*As of this writing, the official final injury report has not been released by the NFL for this game. The league will release a final injury report 48 hours prior to kickoff.
Let’s shift our focus to the rules for the FanDuel single game contest. You have $60,000 to utilize on five players from either team. However, one of those players will be designated as your team MVP. The FanDuel MVP accumulates 1.5 times the standard FanDuel points value.
Vikings Draft 2021: Three-round all defense mock draft
Looking back on the 2020 NFL season, it is pretty obvious where the Minnesota Vikings fell short. The team was able to score a lot of points offensively but couldn’t stop other teams from marching into the end zone.
Sure, the purple and gold will be getting several players back who were lost for the season due to injury, but there are still holes in the defense and some starters who are bound to get a big payday from other teams in free agency.
49ers draft bust Reuben Foster’s career in limbo again after Washington tenure
Don’t expect the 49ers to be up for a reunion, not after how things dissolved between them.
Foster hasn’t played a snap since the 49ers released him in November 2018, following his arrest for allegedly assaulting an ex-girlfriend at the team hotel the night before their game against the Buccaneers in Tampa, Fla.
Washington promptly claimed Foster off waivers but he never suited up for them. He tore multiple knee ligaments and reportedly sustained nerve damage in their first 2019 offseason workout. Those issues kept him on injured reserve through last season.
Peter King defends his Cousins-to-49ers 3-team trade proposal
NBC Sports' Peter King took a lot of heat for his proposal of a three-team trade between the San Francisco 49ers, Houston Texans, and Minnesota Vikings. The writer had Deshaun Watson ending up with the Vikings, Jimmy Garoppolo with the Texans, and Kirk Cousins with the 49ers.
It's that last part that drew ire from fans. It wasn't just because of Cousins ending up in San Francisco, a rumored scenario that seems to pop up every offseason, but what the 49ers give up in the trade. King has the Niners surrendering not just Garoppolo in the deal but also the No. 12 overall pick. That sounds like too much for what doesn't, on the surface, seem like an upgrade.
How long of an extension should the Vikings give to Harrison Smith?
Throughout their history, the Minnesota Vikings have seen plenty of players walk through their doors and fail to live up to their expectations. For safety Harrison Smith, he is not someone who is a part of this group.
In 2012, the Vikings traded back into the first round of that year’s NFL Draft to select Smith out of the University of Notre Dame. Since then, all the talented safety has done is establish himself as a leader of Minnesota’s defense while earning five trips to the Pro Bowl and one First-Team All-Pro selection.
Smith only has one year left on his current contract with the Vikings, but it’s beginning to sound like his tenure with the franchise will continue past the upcoming season.
Bengals likely to host 17th regular-season game vs. 49ers
NBC Sports' Peter King offered some scheduling insight into what will likely be a 17-game season in 2021. The NFL continues negotiations with broadcast partners on a new television deal, and the networks and league are working on the assumption that the regular season will increase by one game.
Until now, there has been speculation on where those 17th games will take place. We already knew that each NFC West team would be matched up against the AFC North opponent with the same spot in its standings from this past season. That means the San Francisco 49ers taking on the last-place Cincinnati Bengals in 2021.
Per @peter_king, the AFC probably will host all the extra (17th) games in 2021. So the 49ers-Bengals game would be in Cincinnati. https://t.co/DEWsGo7K8t
— Matt Barrows (@mattbarrows) March 1, 2021
King is hearing that the AFC will be hosting all 16 of the extra matchups in 2021 and then switching between conferences from there.
Golden Nuggets: Would you be upset if the 49ers went defensive back in the first round?
In today’s nuggets, you’ll see the 49ers taking a defensive back in a mock draft, another Pats writer talking about Jimmy G, potential backup QB options, whether Skule could start at left tackle, and which member of the secondary the team should prioritize.
Doug Farrar expanded on Moehrig’s skill set in the TD Wire mock:
Moehrig spent equal time in the box, in the slot, and at free safety last season in TCU’s split-field coverage, and he was an eraser wherever he lined up. In three seasons with the Horned Frogs, Moehrig allowed 49 catches on 96 targets for 533 yards, 253 yards after the catch, five touchdowns, seven interceptions, and an opponent passer rating of 54.7.
Is Orlando Brown Jr. better off at left tackle? That question could drive the Ravens’ trade market.
In early November, Brian Baldinger wanted to know how Orlando Brown Jr. felt about playing left tackle. Ronnie Stanley had just been lost for the season, and the All-Pro’s replacement would be Brown, who’d starred there in college but had made himself into a Pro Bowl right tackle in Baltimore.
“To be honest with you,” Baldinger recalled Brown texting him, “I’m more comfortable on the left side.”
This didn’t surprise Baldinger, a former NFL offensive lineman and current NFL Network analyst. He’d watched Brown dominate at left tackle at Oklahoma,
'Pretty unusual': Why a left tackle such as 49ers' Trent Williams going on the open market is rare
SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- In an offseason full of uncertainty for the San Francisco 49ers, one thing that's known for sure is that their top priority is retaining star left tackle Trent Williams.
The Niners want Williams. And Williams, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent on March 17, has made it clear he'd like to stay. Seems easy enough, right?
As is often the case when it comes to matters of multimillions, it's not so simple. With a chance to see just how much he could garner on the open market for the first time in his career, Williams is likely to test the waters.
NFL free agency OL rankings: Trent Williams, Brandon Scherff should cash in
Editor’s note: Fifth in an eight-part series
For our next free agency preview, we’ve called on offensive line authority Brandon Thorn. Thorn does a terrific job scouting and analyzing offensive linemen with his Trench Warfare site and newsletter. He was kind enough to offer his opinions on a number of the pending unrestricted free agent offensive linemen. Ages as of Week 1 are in parentheses.
Tier 1: Empty out the wallet
These are players who can expect to find deals at the top of the market for their position.
Monday's injury and roster news: Buccaneers WR Antonio Brown, S Antoine Winfield 'getting close' to returning
Antonio Brown was listed as doubtful for the Super Bowl after missing all of practice last week. His prospects of playing seem to have improved over the bye weekend.
Buccaneers coach Bruce Arians said the veteran wideout is "getting close," noting he's been able to work on the side a bit with his injured knee.
Former veteran NFL WR Josh Gordon will be returning to play football for the @fcfzappers of the @fcflio, per team owner @BobMenery; who also signed Johnny Manziel to the league.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 27, 2021
"We'll see how sore he is," Arians said Monday.
Time will also tell whether Tampa Bay will have one or both of its starting safeties available against the Chiefs on Sunday.
Jacksonville Jaguars Name Dan Edwards to New SVP Position
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Jaguars today named Dan Edwards, an original Jaguars executive who has exclusively led the Jaguars' communications department throughout the existence of the franchise, to a new role as Senior Vice President of Jacksonville Tradition and Alumni.
Edwards, who prior to today held the title of Senior Vice President of Communications, is a 27-year veteran of the Jaguars who arrived in Jacksonville in 1994, shortly after the NFL granted the city an expansion franchise in late 1993. In his new position, Edwards will focus on building alliances, programs, brands and more that will illuminate and market the history, alumni and colorful moments of the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Should Jacksonville Jaguars kick the tires on LB Preston Smith?
The Jacksonville Jaguars lead the league in cap space and should be able to target pretty much every player they like in free agency. Should they pursue Green Bay Packers linebacker Preston Smith if he becomes a cap casualty?
Quarterback is the top story line this offseason.
— #DUUUVAL (@Jaguars) February 25, 2021
John Oehser and Bucky Brooks preview who will take snaps under center for Offensive Coordinator Darrell Bevell ⤵
A second-round pick by the Washington Football Team in 2015, Smith signed a four-year $52 million contract with the Packers in 2019. The Mississippi State product went on to have an immediate impact in Green Bay’s defense, logging 56 total tackles (11 for a loss) 12 sacks, one forced fumble, and one interception. However, his production took a dive in 2020 and registered just four sacks, no interceptions, and no forced fumbles.
Bucs QBs coach: Tom Brady wanted to match what Peyton Manning did in Denver
There have been several reports and speculations as to why Tom Brady decided to leave the New England Patriots after 20 seasons and six Super Bowl titles. The full story may never come to light until Brady decides to expand on his exit. Yet, one motivating factor that was revealed this week circles back to Brady's longtime rival Peyton Manning.
@TomBrady said he wanted to work on his speed in the off-season. He got knee surgery, and should be better around June. He has about 2-3 months of real off-season work. It's a bionic knee. He had a bionic knee put in, and now he'll be truly unstoppable. No proof, but it's a fact
— Josh Baro (@MrJoshBaro) March 1, 2021
Buccaneers quarterbacks coach Clyde Christensen believes one reason Brady left New England was to match something only Manning had accomplished: be the starting quarterback for two Super Bowl-winning franchises.