Darrynton Evans Signs With The Colts
Free-agent running back Darrynton Evans inked a one-year deal with the Colts. Tennessee selected him in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft. However, he hasn't done much since then, appearing in just 12 games for the Titans and Bears in the last three seasons and totaling 125 yards off 30 carries. Of course, Jonathan Taylor is the No. 1 option on the Indianapolis depth chart. But unless Taylor gets hurt, Evans won't receive much work, assuming he's on the roster come Week 1.
Apr 1 · Source via
Rachaad White Projected To Be A Three-Down Back
According to Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles, running back Rachaad White is expected to be a "complete three-down back" this season. The 2022 third-round pick had a productive rookie campaign, amassing 481 yards off 129 attempts and 50 catches for 290 yards. He also totaled three touchdowns. Of course, ball security was a significant issue, which Bowles knows the 24-year-old needs to address. However, White appears to have a firm grasp on the starting job, so his fantasy stock continues to trend north.
Apr 1 · Source via
Tee Higgins Not Concerned About Contract Situation
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins continues to operate without a new contract, despite months of extension talks. The wideout doesn't seem concerned, though, as he discussed the situation on The Pat McAfee Show. "I'm not really worried about the contract," said Higgins. "Obviously, I want to get a deal done." The 24-year-old had a productive 2022-23 campaign, amassing 74 catches for 1,029 yards and seven touchdowns. Cincinnati recently began contract negotiations with quarterback Joe Burrow, so it's likely he's the focal point. However, it would be surprising if the organization couldn't reach an agreement with a player who could easily be the No. 1 receiving option for nearly every club around the NFL.
Apr 1 · Source via
Ryan Neal Becomes Free Agent
The Seattle Seahawks have withdrawn the restricted free agent tender from safety Ryan Neal. The 27-year-old is now a free agent after being tendered by the team in mid-March. It's uncertain why the team decided to move on from Neal. Last season, he recorded 66 tackles, eight passes defended, and one interception in 14 games (10 starts) with Seattle. Neal has played well in each of the last three seasons. He should have a handful of suitors in free agency.
Mar 31 · Source via
Pharaoh Brown Joins Colts
Free-agent tight end Pharaoh Brown has signed a one-year deal with the Indianapolis Colts. The 28-year-old has bounced between the Houston Texans and Cleveland Browns since 2019. Over his career, Brown has 51 receptions, 478 yards, and two touchdowns in 55 games. He'll join Mo Alie-Cox, Kylen Granson, and Jelani Woods in the tight end room. None of these players have run away with a starting gig in Indy. Brown will probably end up as a depth player.
Mar 31 · Source via
Darrynton Evans To Meet With Colts
Free-agent running back Darrynton Evans is scheduled to meet with the Indianapolis Colts this week. The 24-year-old was drafted by the Tennessee Titans in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Sadly, injuries and a lack of opportunity have held Evans back early in his career. Through 12 games, Evans has 30 carries for 125 scoreless yards. The Colts could certainly use another body behind Jonathan Taylor. That being said, Evans could have a real chance to compete for snaps in Indianapolis. His only real competition at a backup role is Deon Jackson. It remains to be seen if the two sides can come to an agreement, but Evans could do well with a move to Indy.
Mar 31 · Source via
Laquon Treadwell Working Out For Cowboys
Free-agent wide receiver Laquon Treadwell worked out for the Dallas Cowboys on Friday. It appears the Cowboys aren't done adding to their wideout room after acquiring Brandin Cooks earlier this month. Treadwell was a former first rounder of the Minnesota Vikings in 2016. He hasn't really done much since entering the league. Treadwell posted his best season in 2021 with 33 receptions, 434 yards, and one touchdown in 12 games (seven starts) with the Jacksonville Jaguars. The 27-year-old is basically a depth option and probably won't be a factor in fantasy leagues.
Mar 31 · Source via
Bengals Have High Hopes For Trayveon Williams
Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor said signing a running back in free agency this offseason is a "possibility," but he also likes the progress of running back Trayveon Williams, who recently re-signed with the team. "We have high hopes for him. He understands what it takes to compete in this league," Taylor said. The Bengals also have Chris Evans, who is entering his third year. Ezekiel Elliott and Kareem Hunt remain on the open market, but it sounds like the Bengals don't necessarily feel the need to sign them. As things currently stand, Williams is the direct backup to Joe Mixon in Cincy. The 25-year-old former sixth-round pick in 2019 has just 47 carries for 238 yards and no touchdowns in his four NFL seasons, adding eight catches for 64 yards in 34 games. However, he could be looking at a more prominent role in 2023.
Mar 31 · Source via
Bengals Begin Extension Discussions With Joe Burrow
The Cincinnati Bengals have begun discussions with quarterback Joe Burrow on a long-term contract extension this offseason. Head coach Zac Taylor told the media that talks have started and "the process is underway," according to a team source. This could take a while to finalize, but the Bengals appear fully committed to securing Burrow's future. Burrow led Cincy to the Super Bowl in just his second NFL season in 2021 and was excellent again in 2023, completing 68.3 percent of his passes for 4,475 yards, 35 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in 16 regular season starts. He led his squad to the AFC title game for the second straight season and will easily be a top-five fantasy QB1 in 2023.
Mar 31 · Source via
Bill Belichick Still Non-Committal On Mac Jones
New England Patriots quarterback Bill Belichick remained non-committal during the owners meetings this week on whether quarterback Mac Jones will be the starter in 2023. "Everybody will get a chance to play. We'll play the best players," Belichick said when asked if it was fair to say that both Jones and Bailey Zappe will be competing for the job in training camp over the summer. Jones, a former first-rounder, took a big step back in 2022 in his sophomore season, but the fact that the team spent so much draft capital on him likely will mean he's still the favorite to start to open the 2023 season. The addition of offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien this year should have fantasy managers cautiously optimistic that Jones can bounce back, but he shouldn't be considered anything more than a low-end QB2.
Mar 31 · Source via
Cowboys Didn't Offer Pay Cut To Ezekiel Elliott; Team Still Open To New Deal
The Cowboys have made a number of high-profile additions so far in free agency, but the 2023 offseason has also included the team’s release of Ezekiel Elliott. The former rushing champion was long expected to be a cap casualty, but the chances of a re-worked contract keeping him in Dallas have fluctuated recently. Elliott admitted […]
Mar 31 · Pro Football Rumors Cowboys Ezekiel Elliott Tony PollardEagles Sign DL Kentavius Street
As the Saints make changes to their defensive tackle group, another contributor will depart. The Eagles agreed to terms with veteran Kentavius Street on Thursday, per the team. It is a one-year deal. Street, 26, has settled into a backup role in recent years, but the North Carolina State alum has made interesting contributions in […]
Mar 31 · Pro Football Rumors Eagles Kentavius StreetSteelers Rumors: Peterson, Sutton, OL
Still opting to conserve costs at cornerback, the Steelers let Cameron Sutton walk in free agency and replaced him with Patrick Peterson. While the latter’s resume laps Sutton’s, the new Pittsburgh cover man is going into his age-33 season. Peterson bounced back in Minnesota, intercepting five passes last season, and Mike Tomlin plans to take […]
Mar 31 · Pro Football Rumors Steelers Patrick Peterson Cameron SuttonCardinals Sign DL Carlos Watkins
The Cowboys showed interest in retaining Carlos Watkins, but the veteran defensive lineman will instead trek to the desert. Watkins agreed to terms on a one-year Cardinals deal Thursday night, according to the team. Watkins spent the past two seasons in Dallas, working as a regular starter. Having played inside and on the edge during […]
Mar 31 · Pro Football Rumors Cardinals Carlos WatkinsDeAndre Hopkins Interested In Joining Contender; Ravens In On Cardinals WR, Others
DeAndre Hopkins continues to linger on the trade block. The Cardinals are setting a high price for the former All-Pro target, but they have also made calls to teams in an effort to shop the 11th-year wideout around to potentially interested parties. This week at the league meetings, the new Cardinals HC discussed a future […]
Mar 30 · Pro Football Rumors Ravens Cardinals DeAndre HopkinsSteelers, S Keanu Neal Agree To Deal
Keanu Neal will be part of a fourth team in four seasons. Per his agency, the former first-round pick is signing a two-year deal with the Steelers (Twitter link). Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette was the first to report Neal was on the verge of signing with Pittsburgh (Twitter link). The five-year Falcons starter […]
Mar 30 · Pro Football Rumors Eagles Keanu NealBears To Re-Sign QB Nathan Peterman
Each of the top two members of Chicago’s quarterback depth chart from last season will be in place for 2023. The Bears are re-signing backup QB Nathan Peterman, per Tom Pelissero of NFL Network (Twitter link). The former Bills fifth-rounder had an unflattering start to his career in Buffalo, but he landed a backup role with […]
Mar 30 · Pro Football Rumors Bears Tim Boyle Justin Fields Nathan PetermanCardinals Sign CB Rashad Fenton
The Cardinals have made the first outside addition to their cornerback room so far in free agency. The team announced on Thursday that they have signed Rashad Fenton to a one-year deal. The 26-year-old was a member of the Chiefs’ Super Bowl winning team during his rookie season in 2019, though he played a minor role […]
Mar 30 · Pro Football Rumors Cardinals Rashad FentonRavens Have Been Active In Receiver Market
The Baltimore Ravens have been fairly active in the wide receiver market this offseason. They have looked into free-agent Odell Beckham Jr. and have also discussed the possibility of trading for Arizona Cardinals receiver DeAndre Hopkins and Denver Broncos pass-catcher Courtland Sutton. Baltimore seems open to adding a quality outside receiver, whether they retain quarterback Lamar Jackson or not. Rashod Bateman (foot), who is coming off a serious injury in 2022, needs more help than just Nelson Agholor. The Ravens should also be expected to address the position via the draft next month, but adding a quality receiver on the outside would make this offense much more dynamic in 2023.
Mar 30 · Source via
Baker Mayfield, Kyle Trask To Compete In Training Camp
Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles called \"game on\" for Baker Mayfield versus Kyle Trask at quarterback in training camp this summer. \"Some competitive juice to go along with Trask. Baker\'s won in college, he\'s been to the playoffs as a pro, and he brings us a lot of leadership. I think this style of offense will fit him really well. I think it will be a good battle between him and Trask to see who will win,\" Bowles said when asked what Mayfield brings to the team. The Bucs seem to really be high on Trask, but Tampa will make this a straight up QB competition in training camp. Mayfield, 27, is the higher-profile signal-caller as a former first-rounder and has much more experience, as Trask has only attempted nine pass attempts in his career.
Mar 30 · Source via
Broncos Could Still Trade Jerry Jeudy, Courtland Sutton
The Denver Broncos aren't hanging up the phone when teams call them about wide receivers Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton. The Broncos need picks in the draft and know they could get something of value in return for either Jeudy or Sutton. However, with a month before the draft, Denver is still asking for a lot in return. This could change as the draft draws closer, but for now, nothing is imminent. A conflicting report surfaced recently that new head coach Sean Payton isn't interested in trading the team's two best receivers, and a separate report suggest that the Broncos were asking for a first-round pick in exchange for Jeudy. If both wideouts stick around, they could be looking at bounce-back years, but they also would need quarterback Russell Wilson to play much better than he did in 2022.
Mar 30 · Source via
DeAndre Hopkins To Stay With Cardinals?
Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon said he expects wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins to remain with the team. Hopkins is set to count just under $30 million against the 2023 salary cap, though, and the team would save around $9 million and carry around $21 million in dead money this year if they traded him, but the acquiring team would still be taking on $19.45 million in cash and cap for a receiver who turns 31 in June. Nuk still has something left in the tank, but ESPN's Dan Graziano couldn't find a team at the owners meetings this week that sounded willing to acquire him without Arizona eating some of the money. The Patriots were rumored to be interested, but it sounds like Hopkins' history with new offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien is an impediment to a trade.
Mar 30 · Source via
Jets The Most Likely Landing Spot For Odell Beckham Jr.
Free-agent wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. has offers on the table from multiple teams, but the New York Jets are the most likely landing spot, according to a source. Beckham could be waiting to make sure the Jets complete a trade for quarterback Aaron Rodgers before finalizing his own decision. The Baltimore Ravens have also made a push for Beckham this offseason. OBJ would have a better path to playing time with the receiver-needy Ravens, but it\'s looking like it would be an upset at this point if the Jets don\'t sign him. The 30-year-old could struggle for a significant role in New York alongside the likes of receivers Garrett Wilson, Allen Lazard, Mecole Hardman and Corey Davis while coming off a lost 2022 season due to a torn ACL.
Mar 30 · Source via
Panthers Not Settled On One QB For No. 1 Pick
A very unscientific poll of sources that ESPN\'s Dan Graziano spoke with at the owners meetings this week told him that most people expect the Carolina Panthers to take Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud with the No. 1 overall pick in the draft. However, head coach Frank Reich was adamant that the team is going through the process and considering Stroud, Alabama\'s Bryce Young, Kentucky\'s Will Levis and Florida\'s Anthony Richardson equally. Panthers officials met with Stroud, Young and Levis at their respective Pro Days and plan to meet with Richardson this week. It would be a pretty big surprise if the Panthers didn\'t go with either Stroud or Young with their pick this year. Whoever they select should be the starter in Week 1.
Mar 30 · Source via
Lamar Jackson Not Seeking Fully Guaranteed Deal
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, who has requested a trade this offseason, isn't believed to be demanding a fully guaranteed deal. It's becoming clear that no NFL team is aggressively pursuing him in a trade or preparing an offer sheet for him, and ESPN's Jeremy Fowler doesn't get the sense that the Ravens are aggressively negotiating a deal with him. Baltimore's desire to keep Jackson is a common refrain among teams, and there's also the issues of guaranteed money, multiple first-round picks required to acquire him and his durability concerns. In any event, Jackson isn't expected to sign his franchise tag anytime soon, and the two sides still have until July 17 to reach a long-term extension. Sources say that Jackson is insisting on getting more fully guaranteed money than the $230 million the Browns gave Deshaun Watson.
Mar 30 · Source via
Nathan Peterman Re-Signs With Bears
Veteran quarterback Nathan Peterman re-signed an undisclosed deal with the Chicago Bears on Thursday, according to a source. Peterman is a valued piece of Chicago\'s quarterback room and is now entering his seventh NFL season and second with the Bears. Justin Fields is the team\'s franchise signal-caller, but Peterman will head into this summer competing for the backup job with P.J. Walker. The 28-year-old played in three games (one start) for the Bears in 2022 and went 14-for-25 for 139 yards, one touchdown and one interception. He\'s played in just 13 games (five starts) over his five NFL seasons with the Bears, Buffalo Bills and Las Vegas Raiders.
Mar 30 · Source via
Patriots Owner Robert Kraft Addresses Bill Belichick\'s Future
Well into the post-Tom Brady era, the Patriots face increased pressure to rebound from an 8-9 campaign last season. Recent remarks from owner Robert Kraft have led to the belief that head coach Bill Belichick is on the hot seat entering 2023, given the team’s struggles relative to their dynasty seasons. Belichick sits at 329 career […]
Mar 30 · Pro Football Rumors PatriotsSaints To Add Jahri Evans To Coaching Staff
To fill the role of assistant offensive line coach, the Saints will transition from one of their former O-line starters to another. They will move from Zach Strief to the most accomplished offensive lineman in team history. Jahri Evans is expected to join Dennis Allen‘s staff on a full-time basis, Luke Johnson of NOLA.com notes, […]
Mar 30 · Pro Football Rumors SaintsKendre Miller Ahead Of Schedule
Texas Christian University running back KenDre Miller (knee) isn\'t working out at his school\'s Pro Day on Thursday as he recovers from an MCL injury that he suffered in the semifinal win over Michigan, but he\'s well ahead of schedule in his recovery and had meetings on Wednesday with the Miami Dolphins, Jacksonville Jaguars and New England Patriots. He\'ll also meet with the Arizona Cardinals and Houston Texans on Thursday. The 20-year-old\'s injury may not cause him to fall all that much in April\'s draft, but it remains to be seen how much he\'ll be able to do early in his rookie season in 2023. Miller is expected to come off the board on either Day 2 or 3 of the 2023 draft.
Mar 30 · Source via
Bills Re-Sign Jordan Phillips
The Buffalo Bills re-signed defensive tackle Jordan Phillips on Wednesday. The deal was reportedly for one year and $3 million. Phillips' 2022 campaign ended early when he required surgery on his shoulder for a torn rotator cuff, but he's expected to be ready for Week 1 of 2023. The 30-year-old played in 12 games (one start) and recorded 20 tackles (nine solo), 1.5 sacks and six QB hits for the Bills. The former second-round pick by the Miami Dolphins in 2015 also played in Buffalo in 2018 and 2019. In his eight NFL seasons, he has 166 tackles (110 solo), 21.5 sacks, 34 tackles for loss, 46 QB hits, one interception, 19 passes defensed, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries in 106 games (53 starts).
Mar 30 · Source via
Alex Bars Returns To Raiders On One-Year Deal
Offensive lineman Alex Bars re-signed with the Las Vegas Raiders on an undisclosed one-year deal on Wednesday, according to a source. He\'ll return for his second season in the desert after he started 14 of his 15 games played at right guard for the Raiders in his first year with the team in 2022. The 27-year-old will at least compete for the starting right guard spot this summer in training camp, depending on who the team brings in at the position through the draft. The former undrafted free agent out of Notre Dame spent the first three seasons of his NFL career playing for the Chicago Bears, where he played in 38 games (11 starts).
Mar 30 · Source via
Johnathan Hankins Re-Signs With Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys re-signed defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins to an undisclosed one-year deal on Wednesday, according to a source. Hankins started the 2022 season with the Las Vegas Raiders before being traded to Dallas midway through the year. He finished with 20 tackles (seven solo) in 10 total games played (four starts) for both teams. The 31-year-old is likely to continue playing a rotational role on the interior of Dallas' defensive line in 2023, leaving him with virtually not IDP fantasy value. In his 10 years in the NFL, Hankins has 376 tackles (211 solo), 14.5 sacks, 37 tackles for loss, 47 QB hits, 10 passes defensed, three forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries in 138 games (120 starts).
Mar 30 · Source via
Wanya Morris Getting Close To 100%
University of Oklahoma offensive lineman Wanya Morris (hamstring), who injured his hamstring at the NFL scouting combine, is getting close to 100 percent healthy and the plan is for him to have his own Pro Day on April 11 in Norman, Oklahoma. At that point, he\'ll go through all offensive line drills for teams in attendance. Morris spent most of his time at right tackle for the Sooners in 2022 and was named a second-team All-Big 12 selection for his efforts. The 22-year-old is a versatile offensive lineman and has experience playing both tackle spots.
Mar 30 · Source via
Marte Mapu Tears Pectoral Muscle
Sacramento State safety Marte Mapu (pectoral) recently tore his pectoral muscle while bench pressing and won\'t work out at his school\'s Pro Day on Friday. NFL teams have been looking at Mapu at safety and Will linebacker. It\'s a tough break for the first-team All-American and Big Sky Defensive Player of the Year in 2022. The injury will most likely cause him to fall in next month\'s draft, and Mapu won\'t be ready for the start of his rookie season in the NFL. The 23-year-old will give whichever NFL team that selects him in the draft plenty of versatility on defense.
Mar 30 · Source via
Raiders To Re-Sign OL Alex Bars
A starting member of the Raiders’ 2022 offensive line will remain in place next season. Guard Alex Bars is re-signing on a one-year deal, per Tom Pelissero of NFL Network (Twitter link). The 27-year-old spent the first three seasons of his career with the Bears. Over that time, he logged a total of 11 starts across 38 […]
Mar 29 · Pro Football Rumors RaidersLions, WR Marvin Jones Agree To Deal
A reunion is in store for the Lions and a familiar face on offense. Veteran wideout Marvin Jones Jr. is signing in Detroit on a one-year deal, reports Mike Garafolo of NFL Network (Twitter link). The contract has a base value of $3MM, while incentives could push it to $5MM. This deal will allow the 33-year-old to […]
Mar 29 · Pro Football Rumors Lions Marvin JonesBengals, Joe Burrow Begin Extension Talks
Just like fellow 2019 draft class quarterback Justin Herbert, Bengals signal-caller Joe Burrow is eligible for a massive extension this offseason. To no surprise, the legwork for putting together a second contract is underway for both players. The Bengals are turning their attention towards a second contract for Burrow, as noted this week by top contract negotiator Katie […]
Mar 29 · Pro Football Rumors Bengals Joe BurrowBills To Re-Sign DT Jordan Phillips
After returning to Buffalo last year, Jordan Phillips will be sticking around. The veteran defensive tackle agreed to a new deal with the Bills on Wednesday, Ari Meirov of The33rdTeam.com tweets. Phillips agreed to a new one-year Bills contract worth $3MM, and ESPN.com’s Alaina Getzenberg adding the deal can max out at $4.6MM (Twitter link). […]
Mar 29 · Pro Football Rumors Bills Jordan PhillipsLatest On 49ers\' QB Situation
The 49ers view Brock Purdy as their optimal starter — when he’s healthy. As it will be a while before that is the case, the team has a backup plan. That might end up needing to carry over into the regular season. Hopes Purdy can return in time for training camp may not be realistic. […]
Mar 29 · Pro Football Rumors 49ers Sam Darnold Trey Lance Brock PurdyMarvin Jones Jr. Expected To Sign With Lions
Former Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Marvin Jones Jr. is expected to sign a one-year, $3 million deal worth up to $5 million with the Detroit Lions, according to a source. Jones spent the last two years with the Jaguars, but before that he played in Detroit from 2016-20. In 16 regular season games (10 starts) for Jacksonville in 2022, he caught 46 of his 81 targets for 529 yards and three touchdowns, numbers that all represented his lowest marks since his rookie season in 2012 with the Cincinnati Bengals. The 33-year-old had his only 1,000-yard season with Detroit in 2017, but fantasy managers should probably expect numbers more in line with his 2022 campaign in 2023. Jones figures to see infrequent work in Detroit this time around behind Amon-Ra St. Brown and second-year wideout Jameson Williams.
Mar 29 · Source via
Buccaneers Agree With Chase McLaughlin
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers agreed to terms on an undisclosed deal with free-agent kicker Chase McLaughlin on Tuesday. The 26-year-old went 30-for-36 on his field-goal tries, including nine successful attempts from 50-plus yards, in 16 games for the Indianapolis Colts in 2022. He also made all 21 of his extra-point attempts. McLaughlin will certainly be an upgrade in range from Tampa\'s previous kicker in Ryan Succop. However, with the Buccaneers transitioning from the now-retired Tom Brady under center, their kicking situation will be shaky for fantasy purposes. In his four NFL seasons while kicking for six different teams, McLaughlin has made 78.8 percent of his 85 field-goal attempts in 47 games played.
Mar 29 · Source via
Titans Expect Ryan Tannehill To Be Their Starter
Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel said he expects quarterback Ryan Tannehill to be the starter in 2023. Vrabel also said that Tannehill is improving after suffering a season-ending ankle injury last December. The Titans also have last year's third-round pick, quarterback Malik Willis, on the roster, but it was clear at the end of 2022 that the Titans view him as a work in progress under center. The 34-year-old Tannehill completed 65.2 percent of his passes in 12 starts last year, throwing for 2,536 yards, 13 touchdowns and six interceptions. Tennessee's offense will likely remain run-heavy in 2023, although they should be looking to add receiving help in next month's draft. If Tannehill is starting in Week 1, he'll be a low-ceiling QB2 in fantasy.
Mar 29 · Source via
Packers Transition To Jordan Love Will Be A Progression
Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur is tempering expectations for the transition from future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers to Jordan Love in 2023. "Certainly, I think we're fooling ourselves if we think he's going to go out there and perform at a level to the likes of an Aaron Rodgers," LaFleur said. "This guy is a once-in-a-lifetime generational talent, and I don't think it necessarily started that way when he first started. But he progressed into that." The Packers must still complete a trade to send Rodgers to the New York Jets, but LaFleur has moved on to Love. The former first-rounder has just one career NFL start (in 2021) and will need all the work he can get before Week 1 of 2023. Fantasy managers can expect plenty of ups and downs from Love in his first full season as Green Bay's starter.
Mar 29 · Source via
Falcons Officially Name Desmond Ridder Their Starter
Atlanta Falcons head coach Arthur Smith said on Tuesday that second-year quarterback Desmond Ridder will begin the 2023 season as the team's starter under center. "The plan is to start Desmond," Smith said. "That's our plan going forward right now." The Falcons drafted Ridder in the third round last year, and he spent the first 13 games backing up veteran Marcus Mariota. The 23-year-old then started the final four games of the season and completed 73 of his 115 passes for 708 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions. The team was encouraged by Ridder's progress, and he'll begin 2023 as the starter, even though Atlanta signed Taylor Heinicke in free agency. Ridder will need to keep improving to hold off Heinicke this season, and he should be considered a QB2 with upside in his first full season as the starter.
Mar 29 · Source via
Scotty Miller Agrees To One-Year Deal With Falcons
Tampa Bay Buccaneers free-agent wide receiver Scotty Miller agreed to an undisclosed one-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons on Wednesday, according to a source. Miller will stay in the NFC South after spending the first four years of his NFL career with the Buccaneers. In his four seasons with the team, he caught 74 of his 128 targets for 924 yards and four touchdowns in 50 regular season games (eight starts). The 25-year-old former sixth-rounder in 2019 had 23 receptions for 185 yards in 15 regular season games on 40 targets in 2022. He was buried on Tampa\'s receiver depth chart behind Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, Julio Jones and Russell Gage, so the move to Atlanta should allow him to have a bigger role, although it won\'t necessarily make him a big fantasy weapon.
Mar 29 · Source via
Raiders Agree To Terms With DeAndre Carter
The Las Vegas Raiders agreed to terms with free-agent wide receiver DeAndre Carter on an undisclosed deal on Wednesday. Carter will stay in the AFC West after spending the 2022 season with the Los Angeles Chargers, where he posted career-highs in catches (46), targets (65) and receiving yards (538) while scoring three touchdowns for the second straight season. The 29-year-old also had a career-high 11.7-yard average on 29 punt returns for the Bolts. In Las Vegas, he\'ll serve as receiving depth behind Davante Adams, Jakobi Meyers and Hunter Renfrow. Carter will probably only become valuable in standard 12-team leagues in 2023 if a receiver in front of him misses extended time due to injury.
Mar 29 · Source via
Calais Campbell To Sign One-Year Deal With Falcons
Former Baltimore Ravens star pass-rusher Calais Campbell intends to sign an undisclosed one-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons, according to sources. The Pro Bowler and former Walter Payton Man of the Year will bring leadership to a young team. The Falcons have made several key additions to their defense through free agency this offseason, with Campbell joining Jesse Bates, David Onyemata and Kaden Elliss. The 36-year-old isn\'t in his prime anymore, but he showed last year with Baltimore that he can still make an impact. In 14 regular season starts, he had 36 tackles (18 solo), 5.5 sacks, four tackles for loss, 14 QB hits and two forced fumbles. Campbell could be in more of a rotational role in 2023 with his new team, making him hard to rely on in IDP leagues.
Mar 29 · Source via
Patriots Won\'t Pursue Lamar Jackson
New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft said on Monday that Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson was interested in playing for the Patriots, but New England doesn\'t have any plans to pursue him, according to a league source. If the Pats signed Jackson to an offer sheet and the Ravens didn\'t match it, they\'d have to surrender two first-round picks. The Patriots would also most likely need to give Jackson a contract worth far more than they ever gave to Tom Brady. New England\'s expectations this offseason are that Mac Jones will be the starter in 2023, but he\'ll have to beat out Bailey Zappe this summer. So far, the Colts are the only NFL team that seems to even be considering making a run at Jackson.
Mar 29 · Source via
Latest On Georgia DL Jalen Carter
Jalen Carter entered the offseason as a probable top-three pick and potential number-one pick. He has since been hit with two misdemeanor chargers stemming from a fatal car accident that killed Georgia offensive lineman Devin Willock and recruiting analyst Chandler LeCroy. Carter was charged with misdemeanor charges of reckless driving and racing but avoided jail time […]
Mar 29 · Pro Football Rumors nfl draftLions, Texans Not Expected To Pursue Lamar Jackson
Looks like we can cross two more teams off the list of potential Lamar Jackson suitors. Lions coach Dan Campbell told Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press that his team won’t be pursuing Jackson. Meanwhile, Aaron Wilson of ProFootballNetwork.com tweets that the Texans won’t be involved in the Jackson sweepstakes. [RELATED: Lamar Jackson Requests […]
Mar 28 · Pro Football Rumors Lions Ravens Texans Lamar JacksonRams Still Considering Trading Allen Robinson II
The Los Angeles Rams are still playing out the idea of trading wide receiver Allen Robinson II, who they signed last spring to a three-year, $46.5 million deal. Robinson's role didn't develop the way the team initially envisioned. The team granted Robinson permission to seek a trade, with team and league sources saying that the Rams would be willing to take on part of A-Rob's $15.2 million in guaranteed salary, dependent on the pick exchange an acquiring team is willing to offer. There's still a chance he could be traded, but the Rams also aren't ruling out Robinson being a part of the offense in 2023. If he sticks around, the team would want Robinson to become more versatile. A change of scenery would probably be best for the 29-year-old's fantasy value in 2023.
Mar 28 · Source via
Rams Discussing Odell Beckham Jr.
Los Angeles Rams general manager Les Snead said the team is \"definitely\" discussing free-agent wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. The Rams have outlined what they are willing/able to do contractually where Beckham is concerned, but there doesn\'t seem to be a sense of urgency at this point in the year while Beckham evaluates all of his options. The 30-year-old receiver was an important member of the Super Bowl team from two years ago, but he spent all of last season recovering from a torn left ACL that he suffered in the Super Bowl. In his 12 games with the Rams in 2021, OBJ had 48 receptions for 593 yards and seven touchdowns. It remains to be seen if he\'ll be able to return to his pre-injury form after his serious knee injury early in 2022.
Mar 28 · Source via
Chargers, QB Justin Herbert Talking Extension
Justin Herbert recently became eligible to sign an extension, and the Chargers confirmed that they’ve started negotiations with their franchise quarterback. \"Those talks are ongoing,\" coach Brandon Staley said today (via ESPN’s Lindsey Thiry). \"We\'re at the beginning of all that, but all know how we feel about him.\" Herbert will earn a bit more […]
Mar 28 · Pro Football Rumors Chargers Justin HerbertPanthers Want To Expand DJ Chark's Role
Carolina Panthers head coach Frank Reich said he has had his eye on wide receiver DJ Chark for a couple of years and wants to expand his role in his first year with the team. "We want to develop him into a complete receiver, widen his route tree. It's not just going to be all the vertical stuff down the field," Reich said. The Panthers also disclosed on Tuesday that Chark recently had ankle surgery, but he could be ready for organized team activities. Injuries have been a problem for the 26-year-old pass-catcher, but if he stays healthy, he should have a big role for the Panthers alongside Adam Thielen. Chark has a 1,000-yard season under his belt and should be worth a late-round pick in fantasy drafts, even with a rookie quarterback expected to start for the team in 2023.
Mar 28 · Source via
Dustin Hopkins, Cameron Dicker To Compete In Training Camp
The plan for now is for Los Angeles Chargers kickers Dustin Hopkins and Cameron Dicker to battle for the starting job this summer in training camp. Hopkins missed most of last year with a hamstring injury after signing an extension last offseason. Dicker missed just one kick in 10 games in his rookie season while filling in for Hopkins. "If you want to win a championship, you got to have a championship kicker," general manager Tom Telesco said. "We have two really good kickers. I've been here where the situation was not as stable. So having two guys that we really, really like is a good problem to have, and we'll kind of see how it plays out from there." Whoever wins the job in LA will most likely be attractive in fantasy.
Mar 28 · Source via
Chargers Don't Know When Justin Herbert Will Be Cleared
Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (shoulder) had surgery in January on a torn labrum in his non-throwing shoulder, and general manager Tom Telesco doesn't know exactly when Herbert will be fully cleared. "We'll kind of see where he is as we get into, like, probably more May," Telesco said. The team's first practice of organized team activities is on May 22. Herbert's left shoulder injury really isn't much of a story this offseason and he should be completely healthy by training camp this summer and for the start of the 2023 season. The 25-year-old isn't an elite, high-end QB1 for fantasy, but he's a nice consolation prize if you wait a little bit at the position in fall drafts.
Mar 28 · Source via
J.C. Jackson Expected To Play This Year
Los Angeles Chargers general manager Tom Telesco is operating under the assumption that the team will have cornerback J.C. Jackson (knee) for the 2023 season. Jackson is rehabbing a torn patellar tendon he suffered in Week 7 of last year in his first campaign with the team. The 27-year-old was a huge bust after signing a five-year, $82.5 million deal in free agency last offseason, but hopefully for the Chargers he\'ll be able to bounce back in 2023 with better health. Telesco also said defensive linemen Austin Johnson and Otito Ogbonnia, who both suffered serious knee injuries in the middle of last year, are \"going to be playing this year.\"
Mar 28 · Source via
Jamaree Salyer Likely To Be At Right Guard In 2023
Los Angeles Chargers general manager Tom Telesco said that offensive lineman Jamaree Salyer will \"probably be at right guard\" in 2023. Head coach Brandon Staley had said earlier on Monday that the plan was to move Salyer to left guard to replace Matt Feiler, who was cut earlier this month. But Telesco said Zion Johnson would be moving from right guard to left guard. Johnson started 26 games at left guard in college and didn\'t start a single game at right guard in college before playing the position as a rookie in 2022. Moving Johnson back to a more familiar position makes sense, but he also developed chemistry with Trey Pipkins on the right side last year. Salyer started 15 games at left tackle in 2022 while Rashawn Slater was out with a torn biceps.
Mar 28 · Source via
Chargers Prefer To Keep Austin Ekeler
Los Angeles Chargers head coach Brandon Staley said on Monday that the team wants to keep running back Austin Ekeler on the roster in 2023 after granting him permission to seek a trade partner after contract-extension talks didn't progress. General manager Tom Telesco reiterated Staley's stance. "We'd like him," Telesco said. "But no predictions on what happens." Ekeler is in the final year of his deal and is due to make $6.25 million in 2023. The two sides are likely far apart in contract talks, but it remains to be seen if that gap shrinks while Ekeler tests an unforgiving RB market. The 27-year-old is one of the best all-around backs in the league, and a trade elsewhere would most likely hurt his overall fantasy value as a high-end RB1, depending on where he winds up. This is far from over, though, and he could eventually end up staying in LA.
Mar 28 · Source via
Falcons, WR Scotty Miller Agree To Deal
Making the opposite move of Russell Gage, Scotty Miller will venture from the Buccaneers to the Falcons. Atlanta is adding the former Tampa Bay wide receiver on a one-year deal, Adam Schefter of ESPN.com tweets. A former Bucs sixth-round pick, Miller played out his rookie contract with the team last season. Miller will join Mack […]
Mar 28 · Pro Football Rumors Buccaneers Falcons Scotty MillerBuccaneers To Sign K Chase McLaughlin
Days after cutting Ryan Succop, the Buccaneers have settled on a new kicker. They are signing Chase McLaughlin, according to JoeBucsFan.com. It is a one-year agreement. McLaughlin will head to Tampa after being replaced in Indianapolis. The Colts, who used McLaughlin as their Adam Vinatieri injury replacement in 2019 and as Rodrigo Blankenship‘s fill-in last […]
Mar 28 · Pro Football Rumors Buccaneers Chase McLaughlin49ers Aiming For Brock Purdy To Stay In QB1 Role; Trey Lance Still In Team\'s Plans
Before Brock Purdy‘s elbow injury, he was ticketed to be the 49ers’ clear-cut starter heading into the offseason program. Purdy’s UCL tear injected some uncertainty into this situation, but John Lynch still views last year’s Mr. Irrelevant as being ahead of the two former top-five picks on San Francisco’s roster. Purdy’s stretch-run showing earned him […]
Mar 28 · Pro Football Rumors 49ers Sam Darnold Trey Lance Brock PurdyFalcons Plan To Keep Desmond Ridder As Starting QB
Desmond Ridder supplanted Marcus Mariota as the Falcons’ starting quarterback late last season, and although pronouncements about Week 1 roles in March should not be considered full-fledged endorsements, it is clear the 2022 third-round pick will enter offseason workouts ahead of Taylor Heinicke for the gig. Arthur Smith said Tuesday, “The plan is to start […]
Mar 28 · Pro Football Rumors Falcons Taylor Heinicke Desmond RidderLatest On Giants, Saquon Barkley
The Giants were able to beat the franchise tag deadline with minutes to spare and sign quarterback Daniel Jones to a long-term deal. Doing so allowed them to place the franchise tag on running back Saquon Barkley, which guarantees he will remain in New York for 2023, but leaves his future beyond that point in doubt. Barkley, 26, […]
Mar 28 · Pro Football Rumors Giants Saquon BarkleyJets Willing To Give Up Second-Round Pick For Aaron Rodgers
MARCH 28: Providing the latest update on the matter of compensation, Charles Robinson of Yahoo Sports reports that talks are now centered on the possibility of New York sending a second-round pick in 2023 and ’24 to Green Bay. The latter selection would be conditional, and have the potential to become a first-rounder depending on the […]
Mar 28 · Pro Football Rumors Packers Jets Aaron Rodgers nfl draftBengals To Sign TE Irv Smith Jr.
Cincinnati had a notable vacancy at the tight end position heading into the second wave of free agency, but it has now been filled. The Bengals are signing Irv Smith Jr. to a one-year deal, reports Fox Sports’ Peter Schrager (Twitter link). The Bengals inked Hayden Hurst to a one-year deal last offseason, giving them an experienced starter […]
Mar 28 · Pro Football Rumors Bengals Irv Smith Jr.Texans Not Expected To Pursue Lamar Jackson
The Houston Texans are not expected to pursue a trade for Baltimore Ravens franchise-tagged quarterback Lamar Jackson, according to league sources. The team's focus is on NFL QB prospects for the upcoming draft, including visits with Alabama's Bryce Young, Ohio State's C.J. Stroud, Kentucky's Will Levis, Florida's Anthony Richardson and Tennessee's Hendon Hooker. The Carolina Panthers have the No. 1 overall pick and will have their choice of QB, but the Texans are fully expected to take another top signal-caller to be their franchise QB at No. 2. The Indianapolis Colts are really the only team currently that haven't been ruled out to pursue a trade for Jackson. Any team that is actually serious about acquiring him is going to have to give up major draft compensation while also signing him to a hefty long-term contract extension.
Mar 28 · Source via
Desmond Ridder Preparing To Be Falcons Starter
Atlanta Falcons head coach Arthur Smith said on Tuesday at the NFL owners meetings that quarterback Desmond Ridder will starting training camp as the starter ahead of high-priced backup Taylor Heinicke. "The plan is to start Desmond," Smith said. "That's our plan going forward right now." Ridder was taken with pick No. 74 in last year's draft, so it shouldn't be a huge surprise that the Falcons will give him the chance to prove he's the full-time starter. The 23-year-old completed 63.5% of his passes for 717 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions in his first four NFL starts in 2022 and he showed steady progress. The Falcons expect Ridder to take the next step in his sophomore season, but it will still probably be a bumpy ride. Fantasy managers in single-year leagues should consider him merely a QB2.
Mar 28 · Source via
Rams Re-Sign Marquise Copeland
The Los Angeles Rams re-signed defensive lineman Marquise Copeland to an undisclosed deal on Monday, according to the team. Copeland will return to the Rams for a fourth season in 2023. He had his best season with the team in 2022, finishing with 31 tackles (16 solo) and one sack in 15 games (nine starts). Copeland played in just 10 games (zero starts) in his first two NFL seasons with the team. The Rams will be hoping that the 25-year-old can build on his best campaign in 2022 as defensive line depth this year. Fantasy managers in IDP leagues can continue to ignore him.
Mar 28 · Source via
Eagles Like Trey Sermon's Potential
Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni had good things to say about running back Trey Sermon on Tuesday. "I can't tell you how many times at practice he made a cut or you just saw him in his pads or he made a play on a screen or whatever it was, you're like, 'Man, this guy got chance to be really good.' I wish we could get him touches," Sirianni said. The Eagles couldn't really get him touches in 2022, as Sermon finished with only two carries for 19 yards in two games. Even if Sirianni really likes the 24-year-old, he's unlikely to have much of a role in 2023 behind Rashaad Penny, Kenneth Gainwell and Boston Scott in Philly's backfield. Sermon washed out in San Francisco after being a third-round pick by the 49ers in 2021.
Mar 28 · Source via
No Timeline For Kyler Murray
Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon won't put a timeline on quarterback Kyler Murray's (knee) return "because you're always wrong when you do that. So, whenever he's ready to play, he'll play." Gannon wants Murray to be fully ready both physically and mentally before he returns from a torn right ACL suffered late last season. The 25-year-old's fantasy stock is going to take a pretty big hit heading into 2023 drafts, and he could be losing top wideout DeAndre Hopkins, who could be traded this offseason. Owner Michael Bidwell suggested earlier this offseason that Murray may not return until closer to midseason. We'll get a better read on Murray's timetable once training camp approaches this summer, but as of right now, he might not even be worth drafting in shallow leagues in 2023.
Mar 28 · Source via
Von Miller On Schedule In His Recovery
Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott said that linebacker Von Miller's (knee) recovery from a torn ACL last year is on schedule. "To have a player go down with a major injury that he had and that type of injury, and then to stick around the team I think says a lot about who he is as a person, who he is as a teammate, which is off the charts, right. And then you talk about the piece that he's working on, which is getting healthy to play and play well on the field. That's a whole other piece and to this point, it sounds like he's on schedule," McDermott said. Miller tore his ACL in Week 12 in his first year in Buffalo but should be ready in 2023. The 34-year-old had eight sacks in just 11 games in 2022, and his return will be a huge boost to an already strong defense.
Mar 28 · Source via
Sean McDermott To Call Defensive Plays
Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott announced on Monday that he will call the defensive plays in 2023. Since it was announced that Leslie Frazier would be taking a year off from coaching, the Bills have explored internal and external options to fill the defensive coordinator position. McDermott is comfortable taking on defensive play-calling responsibilities after having served as a D coordinator for the Carolina Panthers and Philadelphia Eagles before he became Buffalo\'s head coach in 2017. Regardless of who is calling plays for the Bills defense, they will be one of the top fantasy units entering the 2023 season.
Mar 28 · Source via
Javonte Williams Making "Great Strides" In Recovery
Denver Broncos general manager George Paton said the team "won't know that for a while" when asked if running back Javonte Williams (knee) will be ready for the start of the 2023 season. However, Paton also said Williams is making "great strides" in his recovery from a serious knee injury in 2022. The 22-year-old tore his ACL and MCL in Week 4 of last year and isn't a lock to be ready for Week 1 this fall. If he's not ready to go, Samaje Perine could operate as Denver's lead back, so he'll be a popular handcuff in fall drafts. Many folks believed Williams was on the cusp of breaking out as a high-end RB1 in just his second NFL season in 2022, but his injury wiped out what could have been a promising season. Williams' 2023 ADP will depend on whether he'll miss any time early on.
Mar 28 · Source via
Devin Duvernay Expected To Return In 2023
Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh made it sound like wide receiver Devin Duvernay would return to the team in 2023 despite the recent addition of Nelson Agholor. Duvernay has been in danger of being a salary cap casualty this offseason after catching 37 passes for 407 yards and three touchdowns in 14 regular season games (13 starts) for Baltimore in 2022. The 25-year-old is much more valuable to the Ravens as a kick returner on special teams, but he also gives them some depth in a thin receiving corps. He broke the fifth metatarsal in his right foot in late December but should be fully recovered by training camp. With the Ravens fully expected to add more receiving help in the draft, Duvernay won't be very attractive in fantasy as a pass-catcher, especially with quarterback Lamar Jackson's future in Baltimore in question.
Mar 28 · Source via
Matthew Stafford Won't Have Any Limitations
Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay said that quarterback Matthew Stafford (neck) is healthy and will be ready for the 2023 season. "There will be no limitations. He'll be ready to roll," McVay said. Stafford wasn't healthy last year and missed the final seven games of the season due to a spinal-cord contusion. The 35-year-old has taken a lot of punishment in his career, and it's starting to show. Due to injuries to key players like Stafford and All-Pro wide receiver Cooper Kupp (ankle), the Rams offense went off the rails in 2022. Stafford also played through right elbow tendinitis last year and may have to do so again in 2023. A bounce-back season could be in the cards, but fantasy managers should treat Stafford as a low-end QB1, at best.
Mar 28 · Source via
Trey Lance Has A Chance To Regain Starting Job
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan said on Tuesday that quarterback Trey Lance has a shot to regain the starting job under center in 2023. "With Brock being hurt, (Trey Lance) has a chance to regain that," Shanahan said. On Monday, general manager John Lynch said that Purdy "has earned the right" to be the team's starter after impressing as a rookie in 2022. But with Purdy's availability for the start of the season in question after having right elbow surgery, Lance will have an opportunity to start in Week 1 if the team doesn't trade him during next month's draft. The 22-year-old former first-round pick hasn't had a real shot to prove himself as the team's starter yet, and it remains to be seen if he'll actually get that chance. We should know more this summer if Lance is still with the team.
Mar 28 · Source via
Giants A Long Shot For Odell Beckham Jr.
ESPN New York's Jordan Raanan writes that free-agent wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. reuniting with the New York Giants is a long shot, at best, right now. Owner John Mara left the door open for the Giants to pursue a reunion with Beckham this offseason. The Giants could still use some upgrades at the position, but they also have Wan'Dale Robinson, Jamison Crowder, Isaiah Hodgins, Parris Campbell, Darius Slayton and Sterling Shepard at the position with the draft approaching next month. The more likely option is for OBJ to join the New York Jets as they prepare to acquire quarterback Aaron Rodgers from the Green Bay Packers. The 30-year-old receiver didn't play at all in 2022 while recovering from a torn ACL, although he could make some fantasy noise in the right situation in 2023.
Mar 28 · Source via
DJ Chark Undergoes Ankle Surgery
Carolina Panthers head coach Frank Reich said that wide receiver DJ Chark (ankle) recently underwent ankle surgery, but he could be ready for part of organized team activities this spring. The 26-year-old should be ready for training camp this summer and the start of the 2023 regular season, but his surgery is noteworthy as he looks to learn his new team's offense. There's a good chance the Panthers will look to add to their receiver room in the draft, but for now, Chark and Adam Thielen will enter 2023 as their top two pass-catchers for an expected rookie starting quarterback this year. Injuries have hurt Chark in recent seasons, but he does have a 1,000-yard season under his belt and he could surprise some in his new digs, depending on his chemistry with the team's new franchise signal-caller.
Mar 28 · Source via
Michael Thomas Making Progress In Recovery
New Orleans Saints head coach Dennis Allen said that wide receiver Michael Thomas (toe) is making progress in his recovery, but he's not 100 percent yet and the team is going to be cautious with him in the offseason. Thomas and the Saints restructured his contract to keep him around in 2023 after he missed the final three months of the 2022 season with a dislocated toe. Since he had a league-high 1,725 receiving yards on 149 catches in 2019, the 30-year-old pass-catcher has fallen off a cliff due to injuries. Thomas missed the entire 2021 season and played in a combined 10 games in 2020 and 2022. He'll have a new quarterback in Derek Carr this year, and although he could bounce back with better health, fantasy managers shouldn't be expecting Thomas to be his pre-injury, All-Pro self in 2023.
Mar 28 · Source via
Aaron Rodgers Trade Could Involve Two Second-Round Picks
The Green Bay Packers and New York Jets continue to work on trade negotiations for veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, with protection for draft-pick compensation emerging as a key holdup to a deal in the event that Rodgers doesn\'t play in 2024. According to multiple sources, the trade is currently surrounding a swap that would send the Packers two high draft picks for Rodgers -- one second-round pick this year and another second-rounder in 2024 that could become a first-rounder with \"achievable\" team performance escalators. Rodgers admitted last week that he was heavily considering retirement this offseason, so the Jets are worried he\'ll be one and done with them. A trade sending Rodgers to the Jets isn\'t imminent, but the Jets would certainly like to get it done before April\'s draft.
Mar 28 · Source via
Irv Smith Jr. Agrees To One-Year Deal With Bengals
Free-agent tight end Irv Smith Jr. agreed to an undisclosed one-year deal with the Cincinnati Bengals on Tuesday, according to a source. Smith is a much-needed addition for the Bengals at the tight end position after they lost Hayden Hurst in free agency. Cincinnati also has Devin Asiasi, Tanner Hudson and Nick Bowers at the position. Smith should be the team\'s top pass-catcher at the position, but the Bengals could also add to the position in the draft. The 24-year-old former second-round pick by the Minnesota Vikings in 2019 hasn\'t been healthy the last two years and played in just eight games for the Vikes in 2022. If he can stay on the field, Smith could be a very sneaky fantasy option at the tight end position in 2023.
Mar 28 · Source via
Broncos Think Jarrett Stidham Has Starting Potential
Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton thinks quarterback Jarrett Stidham was an "important signing" and believes he could one day become a starting QB in the NFL. The Broncos signed him to a two-year, $10 million deal in free agency to back up Russell Wilson in 2023. Wilson struggled mightily in his first year with Denver in 2022, but the team did not bring Stidham in to put pressure on him for the starting job. The 26-year-old former fourth-round pick of the New England Patriots in 2019 has played in 13 games (two starts) in his three NFL seasons, throwing for 926 yards, six touchdowns and seven interceptions. In five games (two starts) with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2022, Stidham threw for 656 yards, four TDs and three interceptions.
Mar 27 · Source via
Gardner Minshew To Compete For Starting Job
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Gardner Minshew will compete for the team's starting job under center in 2023, according to new head coach Shane Steichen. "Right now, obviously, he's coming in to just compete and be the best he can be, you know, and that's where we're going," Steichen said on if Minshew will be named the starter. "That's where we feel he's at right now and that's his role right now." Minshew and Steichen have spent the last two years together with the Philadelphia Eagles, but the Colts also have the No. 4 overall pick in next month's draft and could elect to take a franchise QB with that pick. If the Colts take a QB with their first pick, the 26-year-old Minshew will compete for the starting gig with him. Minshew started only four games the last two years with Philly, but he has 24 games of starting experience in the NFL in four seasons.
Mar 27 · Source via
Mac Jones Not Guaranteed To Start In 2023
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick hinted that the team will have a competition at quarterback in 2023 between Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe. Jones made the Pro Bowl and led the team to the playoffs as a rookie in 2021, but he regressed last year after offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels left to become the Las Vegas Raiders' head coach. "Everybody will get a chance to play," Belichick said. "We'll play the best player." Owner Robert Kraft continues to support Jones publicly. The addition of offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien should put Jones in a better position to succeed again, but he'll have to win the job over Zappe in training camp this summer. Even if Jones remains the team's starter in 2023, he'll be an unappealing low-end QB2 in fantasy.
Mar 27 · Source via
Samaje Perine Could Fill In As Starter
Denver Broncos running back Samaje Perine could serve as the team's starting running back if Javonte Williams (knee) isn't ready to go for the start of the 2023 season. "Samaje (Perine), he can be a starter. He's good on first, second down. He's good on third down. He has really good hands. He's solid in protection. And we like Latavius Murray. We'll see where that goes," general manager George Paton said. Denver added Perine on a two-year, $7.5 million deal in free agency to add more depth to the position behind Williams, but Williams is coming off a serious knee injury in 2022 and might have to be eased in early on. Murray remains a free agent, and even if he were to re-sign, Perine could be ahead of him on the depth chart. The 27-year-old will be a handcuff option for those that draft Williams, and he could be an RB3/flex option in Week 1 if he's the starter.
Mar 27 · Source via
Chargers Confident They'll Keep Justin Herbert Long Term
Los Angeles Chargers head coach Brandon Staley said he's "confident that Justin Herbert is gonna be our quarterback for a long time." Staley also said that contract-extension talks with Herbert and his representatives are in the early stages, but in the end, the two sides should be able to work something out. The Chargers are going to have to shell out quite a bit of money to keep the 25-year-old around. He hasn't had any postseason success in his first three NFL seasons, but the former first-rounder won the Rookie of the Year in 2020 and has proven to be one of the better signal-callers in the NFL, throwing for 14,089 yards, 94 touchdowns and 35 interceptions in his first three NFL seasons. Herbert isn't an elite fantasy QB1, but he should at least be considered a midrange QB1 heading into 2023.
Mar 27 · Source via
Cowboys Open To Re-Signing Ezekiel Elliott
The Dallas Cowboys are open to re-signing running back Ezekiel Elliott after cutting the former No. 4 overall pick earlier this month after seven years with the team. The Cowboys saved over $10 million on the 2023 salary cap with the move, but head coach Mike McCarthy said the team might be willing to work something out to bring him back at a lower cost. Elliott scored 12 touchdowns in 2022, but he also had a career-low 876 rushing yards and was far less explosive than backfield mate Tony Pollard. The 27-year-old Elliott averaged 3.8 yards per attempt last year and is now more of a short-yardage/goal-line back in the NFL. Elliott has narrowed down his list of teams to the Eagles, Jets and Bengals, but it remains to be seen if that trio of teams wants to take on the aging back.
Mar 27 · Source via
Rashod Bateman Will Be Running In Three Weeks
Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh had a positive update on wide receiver Rashod Bateman (foot) at the NFL owners meetings on Monday. "Rashod is in a great place... He's healthy and going to be running in three weeks. I'm a big believer in Rashod Bateman," Harbaugh said. Bateman was only able to play in six games for Baltimore in 2022 due to a Lisfranc injury that required surgery. He finished with 15 catches on 28 targets for 285 yards and two touchdowns. The 23-year-old former first-rounder should be fully ready for training camp this summer and will be the team's top wideout once again in 2023. However, the situation looming with quarterback Lamar Jackson could cause Bateman's fantasy stock to plummet if the dual-threat QB ends up playing elsewhere.
Mar 27 · Source via
Giants Open To Reunion With Odell Beckham Jr.
The New York Giants are open to a potential reunion with free-agent wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. The team's former first-round pick in 2014 played the first five years of his NFL career in New York before being traded to the Cleveland Browns. "We certainly haven't closed that door," owner John Mara said. "That's going to be up to Joe and [head coach Brian Daboll]. I certainly would be in favor of that it they can make it happen." The New York Jets are also very interested in adding Beckham, who is good friends with Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers. OBJ hasn't played since tearing his ACL in the Super Bowl two years ago with the Los Angeles Rams, but he looks healthy now and should join a team at some point this offseason. The G-Men have added Parris Campbell and Jamison Crowder at the position already, but they could use more additions at wideout.
Mar 27 · Source via
Giants Hopeful Of Long-Term Extension With Saquon Barkley
The New York Giants placed the franchise tag on running back Saquon Barkley three weeks ago, but they have continued negotiations on a potential long-term contract extension. The two sides have until July 15 to sign a long-term deal before the start of the new season. Otherwise, Barkley will play 2023 on a one-year, $10.091 million deal. "I told Saquon we want him to be a Giant for his entire career," owner John Mara said during the owners meetings on Monday. Barkley was able to stay healthy in 2022 and was basically the Giants' entire offense, logging 295 carries for 1,312 yards and 10 touchdowns on the ground, adding 57 receptions for 338 yards in 16 regular season games. He'll enter 2023 fantasy drafts as a high-end RB1.
Mar 27 · Source via
Commanders Won't Pursue Lamar Jackson
The Washington Commanders won't be one of the team's pursuing Baltimore Ravens franchise-tagged quarterback Lamar Jackson this offseason. "There are a number of reasons. I won't get into specifics. He's a very talented guy. He's one of the better QBs in this league. For us right now, we're moving forward with Sam Howell and Jacoby Brissett," general manager Martin Mayhew said. Jackson publicly requested a trade on Monday, but it remains to be seen if any team will step up to the plate and give Baltimore two first-round picks for the 26-year-old dual-threat QB. Jackson has missed some time at the end of the last two seasons due to injuries, but when healthy, he has been one of the most dynamic players at his position in the NFL.
Mar 27 · Source via
Colts Pursuing Lamar Jackson?
Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard isn't ruling out the possibility that the team will pursue Baltimore Ravens franchise-tagged quarterback Lamar Jackson. "But I think anytime at that position we have a chance to acquire a guy, you've got do your work on it to see if it's doable. Sometimes it is, sometimes it's not," Ballard said. Jackson formally requested a trade on his social-media account on Monday, and the Colts are the one team that hasn't denied being interested in landing the dual-threat QB this offseason. The Colts also have the No. 4 overall pick in this year's draft, so if they can't find a way to get Jackson, they could certainly take their next franchise signal-caller in the draft.
Mar 27 · Source via
No Timeline On Aaron Rodgers Trade
Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst said on Monday that there is no timeline on trading quarterback Aaron Rodgers, but hopefully something will get done soon. The Packers don't necessarily need a first-round pick as compensation for the future Hall of Famer. Asked if there was any chance Rodgers would return to Green Bay, Gutekunst said it's not trending that way but that "all options are on the table." Rodgers wants to play for the Jets in 2023, and head coach Robert Saleh remains "confident" that they'll acquire Rodgers in a trade, according to ESPN New York's Rich Cimini. The Jets also are in no rush to do a trade, with Saleh saying the two sides could wait until training camp in late July. While it's still likely that Rodgers will be playing for the Jets in 2023, we'll continue to wait for something official.
Mar 27 · Source via
Eagles Want To Get Extension Done With Jalen Hurts Soon
Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman said at the NFL owners meetings on Monday that the team would like to sign quarterback Jalen Hurts to a contract extension "relatively soon." Roseman reiterated multiple times that getting Hurts on a long-term deal remains a priority. "We want him here long-term. It's going to be a priority for us to extend him...You have to navigate the offseason understanding that we're not going to lose our franchise quarterback with one year left on his deal," Roseman said. The former second-round pick is heading into the final year of his deal, but he'll almost certainly work something out with the Eagles to keep him around long term. After leading Philly to the cusp of a Super Bowl championship, Hurts will be one of the first QBs off the board in fantasy drafts this fall.
Mar 27 · Source via
Bryan Edwards Joins Saints
Free-agent wide receiver Bryan Edwards has signed with the New Orleans Saints. The details of the contract haven't been announced, but it's assumed to be a one-year deal. The 24-year-old will reunite with his former teammate Derek Carr in New Orleans. The former third round pick has failed to solidify a role for himself in the NFL. Edwards has 48 receptions, 779 yards, and four touchdowns in parts of three seasons. He was cut by the Atlanta Falcons after seven games last season. Edwards appears to have the potential to be a legitimate option in the league, but he hasn't put it together yet. He remains nothing more than a dynasty stash right now.
Mar 27 · Source via
Deandre Hopkins Granted Permission To Seek Trade
Arizona Cardinals wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins has been given permission to speak with other teams regarding a possible trade. The veteran wideout is seeking a new contract and the Cardinals don't appear to have any interest in giving it to him. Hopkins is entering his age-31 season, but still has plenty left in the tank. He finished with 64 receptions, 717 yards, and three touchdowns in nine games last season. It seems like a down year for Hopkins, but he was forced to miss the first six games of the season due to a suspension. There is no doubt that Hopkins can still perform at a high level. However, organizations are likely hesitant because of the fact that Hopkins wants a new contract. The Cardinals are unlikely to get a significant return in any Hopkins trade due to the fact the other team would have to sign Hopkins to a new deal. This is likely a saga that is going to carry on throughout the offseason.
Mar 27 · Source via
49ers Planning To Exercise Brandon Aiyuk's Option
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk is expected to remain with the team for at least one more season. The team is reportedly going to exercise Aiyuk's fifth-year option. Although, it's also worth noting that the 49ers have received trade interest in regards to Aiyuk. That doesn't come as a shock after Aiyuk posted a breakout campaign last season. He finished with 78 receptions, 1,015 yards and eight touchdowns with the 49ers. Aiyuk has certainly put himself in line for big payday, which is something the 49ers might not be able to afford. They already signed Samuel to a massive extension, so we'll see if they want to pay two wide receivers big time money. Regardless, it doesn't sound like the 49ers have any plans of moving on from Aiyuk at this moment.
Mar 27 · Source via
Lamar Jackson Requests Trade
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson decided to take to social media right before head coach John Harbaugh was going to speak to the media on Monday. Jackson claims he asked to be traded on March 2nd due to the Ravens lack of interest in meeting his value. The team claims that the two sides are still discussing a contract and talked last week. It doesn't sound like this contract situation is anywhere close to being over. It doesn't appear that Jackson has an issue with Baltimore, but the former MVP wants a better offer than what he has received in the past. This trade request news might only be to put more pressure on the Ravens to get a deal done.
Mar 27 · Source via
Broncos HC Sean Payton Insists Team Will Not Trade WRs Jerry Jeudy, Courtland Sutton
Throughout the early offseason, rumors have run rampant concerning two of the Broncos’ most promising assets. Denver fielded calls before last year’s trade deadline from several teams seeking to acquire wide receivers Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton. Despite the existing interest, new head coach Sean Payton assured the media today that they have no intentions […]
Mar 26 · Pro Football Rumors Broncos Jerry Jeudy Tim Patrick Courtland Sutton Russell Wilson