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Seattle is adding cornerback insurance in the wake of the ACL injury sustained by DeShawn Shead in the team's season-ending playoff loss at Atlanta. The Seahawks are signing former Titans cornerback Perrish Cox, NFL Network's Mike Garafolo report... more

The Antonio Brown apology tour continued Wednesday when the Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver addressed his Facebook Live video following the team's 18-16 playoff win over the Kansas City Chiefs. Brown has taken no umbrage at Mike Tomlin's... more

Chris Wesseling has had it up to HERE with the faulty football logic he's seen flying fast and furious lately. Below, he thoroughly -- if a bit crankily -- debunks some of the more galling popular fallacies that have taken root: Why you don't insu... more

Falcons offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan is expected to become the San Francisco 49ers' next head coach, according to NFL Network's Michael Silver. According to sources familiar with both parties, it is almost certain that Shanahan will accept t... more

Now that the Chargers are fleeing San Diego , inquiring football minds want to know: Is Philip Rivers onboard with the idea of spending the remainder of his career in Los Angeles? The cagey quarterback mulled retirement after the 2015 season, let... more

The Baltimore Ravens are in the market for a quarterback. With backup signal-caller Ryan Mallett set to reach free agency, general manager Ozzie Newsome wants to upgrade his insurance policy behind starter Joe Flacco. "You saw over the weekend wh... more

The New York Jets are working to solidify their offensive for the next starting quarterback. The Jets signed right guard Brian Winters to a four-year contract extension, the team announced Monday. Winters' new deal is worth nearly $8 million  per y... more

Dash Pass Left . That's the name of the play that freed tight end Jared Cook for a 35-yard toe-dragging catch to set up the game-winning field goal in Sunday's Divisional Round Packers victory , NFL Network's Randy Moss reported from Green Bay on... more

Coach Bill O'Brien is staying in Houston for the 2017 season. The same can't be said for offensive coordinator George Godsey. The Texans and Godsey have mutually agreed to part ways, the team announced Monday. "I'm grateful for the tireless work... more

If there was one hiccup in the Atlanta Falcons' Divisional Round victory over the Seattle Seahawks, it was the sight of a slightly hobbled Julio Jones on the sidelines as the fourth quarter played out. Although Jones aggravated his late-season toe... more

Steelers safety Sean Davis deflected Alex Smith's two-point conversion attempt, preserving Pittsburgh's 18-16 lead over the Kansas City Chiefs in the Divisional Round of the playoffs. Here's what we learned in Sunday's game: 1. Le'Veon Bell and... more

Mason Crosby drilled a pair of field goals over 50 yards in the final 98 seconds, leading the Green Bay Packers to a thrilling 34-31 victory over the Dallas Cowboys in the Divisional Round of the playoffs. Here's what we learned in Sunday's game:... more

Leading MVP candidate Matt Ryan riddled Seattle's secondary for 338 yards and three touchdowns, leading the Atlanta Falcons to a convincing 36-20 victory over the Seahawks in the Divisional Round of the playoffs. Here's what we learned in Saturday's... more

Steelers-Chiefs Texans-Patriots Seahawks-Falcons Packers-Cowboys Background The Steelers' Week 4 victory over the Chiefs was so long ago that James Harrison claims to have no recollection of the lopsided affair. It's just as well... more

While the Rams are spinning their wheels in a perpetual rebuilding effort, their new neighbors boast a roster strong enough to crash the playoff party in a Los Angeles debut season. The Chargers' 9-23 record is the most misleading in the league ov... more

Although the Baltimore Ravens opted to retain embattled offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg, they are determined to fix a rushing attack that was abandoned for the majority of the 2016 season. Former Bills and 49ers offensive coordinator Greg Ro... more

Chris Wesseling has had it up to HERE with the faulty football logic he's seen flying fast and furious lately. Below, he thoroughly -- if a bit crankily -- debunks some of the more galling popular fallacies that have taken root: Texans have "a dam... more

As Le'Veon Bell was slicing and dicing Miami's defense last week, CBS analyst Phil Simms christened the sinewy Steelers running back "The Great Hesitator." Bell's trademark patience has captured the football world's imagination, standing as the sy... more

As of a month ago, the Kansas City Chiefs were excited about the prospect of a Jamaal Charles return just in time for a Super Bowl run . So why did the team opt to pull the plug on the star running back's season a couple of weeks later? Writing... more

The New York Giants are set to begin the search for Eli Manning's successor. "We always think about every position, but Eli is 36," general manager Jerry Reese conceded, via the New York Daily News, in Monday's season-ending press conference. "We h... more

Ben Roethlisberger will dispense with the injury drama this time around. The Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback is downplaying the late-game injury that landed him in a walking boot after Sunday's wild-card round victory over the Miami Dolphins.... more

The Baltimore Ravens offensive coaching staff never trusted the ground attack during a 2016 season that established a new single-season franchise low for rushing attempts. Although the tandem of Terrance West and Kenneth Dixon proved capable of mov... more

The New York Giants' vaunted defense had no answers for a transcendent Aaron Rodgers in the final 33 minutes of Sunday's season-ending loss to the Green Bay Packers. If their playoff itinerary had extended just one more week, though, the Giants wou... more

Aaron Rodgers showed MVP form on Sunday, tossing four touchdown passes in a sublime performance to lead the Green Bay Packers to a 38-13 victory over the New York Giants in the Wild Card round of the playoffs. Here's what we learned: 1. New York'... more

At an age when most pass rushers have long since been put out to pasture, pocket-crashing Steelers linebacker James Harrison led a swarming Pittsburgh defense that battered Dolphins quarterback Matt Moore and bottled up power back Jay Ajayi in Sunday... more

Giants-Packers Lions-Seahawks Raiders-Texans Dolphins-Steelers The scribes and talking heads tasked with covering this mouthwatering matchup have failed us this week. Football's cognoscenti have been waylaid by tedious finger-waggin... more

The Green Bay Packers have a secret weapon. You know that Aaron Rodgers is playing at the height of his powers, running the table for an improbable entrée to the MVP race . You probably also know that Jordy Nelson's midseason return to 2014 form... more

After overseeing an Atlanta Falcons attack that shattered franchise records for points and yards, offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan will have his pick of head coaching opportunities this January. Although Shanahan is also set to meet with the R... more

AFC playoff picture NFC playoff picture With postseason play beginning this weekend , Chris Wesseling takes a straightforward look at the defining traits of each AFC playoff team. 1) New England Patriots Biggest strength: Bill Belichick a... more

Tyreek Hill's 95-yard punt return versus the San Diego Chargers led to AFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors for the third time this season. The NFL's fastest player has exceeded 22 mph several times, per Next Gen Stats, leaving Kansas City... more

Connor Cook will make his first career start in the Oakland Raiders' Wild Card round matchup with the Houston Texans. On a conference call with Houston media, coach Jack Del Rio confirmed that the third-string quarterback will be under center with... more

When Kendall Wright arrived in Tennessee as a 2012 first-round draft pick, he brought along lofty comparisons to Steve Smith and Santonio Holmes. Five years later, he's saying his goodbyes after spending his final Titans game on the bench as a hea... more

The most venerated member of Houston's top-ranked total defense will consider hanging up his cleats after the Texans' postseason run. Veteran defensive tackle Vince Wilfork told reporters Tuesday that he will consider retirement for the first time... more

Fired by the San Diego Chargers after Sunday's season finale, former head coach Mike McCoy has no plans to take a sabbatical year away from football. "I'll be coaching somewhere next year ," McCoy said Monday, via the San Diego Union-Tribune. "I... more

Tony Romo and Jimmy Garoppolo will have company on the quarterback trade market this offseason. Bengals backup signal-caller AJ McCarron said his goodbyes Monday "just in case" 2016 is his final season in Cincinnati. Per The Cincinnati Enquirer,... more

Coach Ron Rivera emphasized last week that Cam Newton will have to change his playing style as the Carolina Panthers offense "evolves" next season and beyond. "We want him to last 10 more years," Rivera explained. "We have to find ways to change.... more

The Arizona Cardinals are not about to let impending free agent Chandler Jones fly the coop after surrendering a second-round draft pick for his services last offseason. Coach Bruce Arians made it clear Monday that the disruptive outside linebacke... more

The Arizona Cardinals are breathing a sigh of relief after receiving the test results from David Johnson's knee injury sustained in the season finale . Coach Bruce Arians told reporters Monday that Johnson was diagnosed with an MCL sprain that will... more

Now that Miami is set to open the postseason in Pittsburgh might the Dolphins starting quarterback return to lend a spark? Ryan Tannehill is three weeks removed from a Grade II MCL sprain and partially torn ACL suffered in the team's Dec. 11 victor... more

The San Francisco 49ers will enter the 2017 season with their fourth different head coach in four seasons. The team announced the firings of coach Chip Kelly and general manager Trent Baalke following Sunday's 25-23 loss to the Seattle Seahawks.... more

The Atlanta Falcons reached the end zone on all five first-half possessions, dismantling the New Orleans Saints and securing the NFC's No. 2 seed in a 38-32 victory . Here's what we learned: 1. Matt Ryan directed one of the most extraordinary... more

The Arizona Cardinals started the new year in depressing fashion. Star running back David Johnson was carted to the locker room late in the first quarter of Sunday's game after suffering an apparent left knee injury versus the Los Angeles Rams.... more

The (14-2) New England Patriots secured the No. 1 seed and home-field advantage throughout the AFC's postseason with a convincing 35-14 victory over the (10-6) Miami Dolphins in Week 17. Here's what we learned: 1. The superior team controlled thi... more

Panthers Broncos After losing five of its first six games to start the season, Carolina never pieced together the hot streak that would have pushed them back into contention in the NFC playoff race. The Panthers were then officially eliminate... more

Panthers Broncos Denver's loss at Kansas City last week ensured that both Super Bowl teams from the previous season would fail to reach the playoffs for the first time since 2003 . The Broncos and Panthers organizations still boast the fron... more

Now that the Denver Broncos have been eliminated from playoff contention, they are putting their defensive leader on ice. Veteran linebacker DeMarcus Ware was placed on season-ending injured reserve  because of a ruptured disc in his back, Broncos... more

True to his persona to the end, a reflective Steve Smith told reporters Wednesday that there's an "89 percent " chance Sunday's game will be his last in an NFL uniform. Once Smith is ready make the official announcement, will he let bygones be byg... more

This year's MVP discussion has been the most meandering in recent memory. Should the Cowboys' dynamic rookie duo split the award? Is Dallas' dominant offensive line even eligible? Should Tom Brady be disqualified for "cheating" (preposterous)? Does D... more

When Ezekiel Elliott gave way to Darren McFadden for the final 20 minutes of Monday night's victory, the supposition was that the Dallas Cowboys were abandoning any effort to give their MVP candidate a legitimate opportunity to break Hall of Famer E... more

Cam Newton's 77.5 passer rating is the lowest by a reigning MVP since former Tennessee Titans quarterback Steve McNair posted a 73.1 mark in 2004. His 45.3 completion percentage since Week 11 is the third-lowest by any quarterback in a six-game span... more

A trio of Cowboys stars accounted for a season-high six touchdowns to lead Dallas (13-2) to a 42-21 victory over the Detroit Lions (9-6), wrapping up the 2016 finale of "Monday Night Football." Here's what we learned: 1. The Lions (9-6) entered t... more

The Kansas City Chiefs (11-4) exploded for three touchdowns in the first quarter, cruising to a 33-10 victory over the Denver Broncos (8-7) in Week 16. Sunday's results clinch a playoff berth for the Chiefs as well as the Miami Dolphins, eliminating... more

The Raiders (12-3) ended the playoff hopes for the Indianapolis Colts (7-8) with a 33-25 victory , but Oakland lost its quarterback for an indefinite period on Saturday. Here's what we learned in the Week 16 clash: 1. Just when it seemed the Raide... more

Just when it seemed the Oakland Raiders were gaining momentum for a Super Bowl run, they lost their MVP candidate and team leader to a season-ending injury. Just hours after the Titans saw franchise quarterback Marcus Mariota go down with a fractur... more

The Green Bay Packers extended their winning streak to five games with a convincing 38-25 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in Week 16. Here's what we learned: 1. The white-hot Packers have emerged as the sleeping giant no Super-Bowl hopeful wan... more

The New England Patriots have designated rookie quarterback Jacoby Brissett to return from injured reserve, officially eliminating any remaining chance of a Rob Gronkowski reappearance during the postseason. Why did Bill Belichick opt to burn his o... more

Eagles safety Terrence Brooks intercepted Eli Manning's 63rd pass of the game, staving off a last-minute New York Giants (10-5) comeback attempt in Philadelphia's 24-19 victory Thursday night. Here's what we learned in the kickoff to Week 16: 1.... more

The frustration that sparked last Sunday's post-game shouting match between the Broncos defense and offense does not extend to quarterback Trevor Siemian. Although Denver's offense has scored just one touchdown in the last 10 quarters , Siemian i... more

Former Broncos and Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan has hovered around the periphery of NFL vacancies over the past few Januaries, waiting to be coaxed back into the game should the ideal circumstance arise. Back in July of 2014, Shanahan emphasiz... more

As Carson Palmer and Larry Fitzgerald addressed their football futures in the past few days, no one bothered to ask if coach Bruce Arians would return for another season with the Arizona Cardinals. Arians has been hospitalized with health issues o... more

Not all rookie classes are created equal. Some years, Sam Bradford wins by default as a league-average quarterback on a 7-9 Rams outfit. Other years, Robert Griffin III's spectacular NFL debut edges out equally deserving young quarterbacks such as An... more

The star linebacker tandem of Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis fueled the Carolina Panthers' three consecutive NFC South titles from 2013 to 2015. As Davis reaches the twilight years of his brilliant career and coach Ron Rivera holds Kuechly out of ga... more

After a Week 15 loss to the Saints dropped the Cardinals to a disappointing 5-8-1, Carson Palmer confirmed that he expects to return to Arizona for another season in 2017. While the veteran quarterback is not yet pondering retirement, wide receive... more

The Washington Redskins' playoff hopes took a severe blow after falling to the Carolina Panthers 26-15  on Monday night. Here's what we learned in the Week 15 finale: 1. In a sloppy performance, the Redskins (7-6-1) failed to take advantage of the... more

Coach Gary Kubiak insists "there's no division" between the Denver Broncos' offense and defense after Sunday's postgame shouting match between the offensive line and defensive backs. One Denver player told NFL Network's Mike Silver that the locker-... more

Two-time Super Bowl winner Jimmy Johnson believed the worst stance an NFL head coach could take was a refusal to admit a mistake -- because then he has to confront it every day. After two months of watching Brock Osweiler hold the Houston Texans'... more

The New England Patriots (12-2) clinched their eighth consecutive AFC East title and earned their seventh straight first-round bye in the postseason, pounding out a 16-3 victory over the rival Denver Broncos (8-6) in Week 15. Here's what we learned:... more

The Indianapolis Colts kept their playoff hopes alive, bulldozing the Minnesota Vikings in a lopsided 34-6 victory . Here's what we learned in the Week 15 showdown: 1. Good luck figuring out Chuck Pagano's dual-personality Colts squad. The one... more

The Seattle Seahawks clinched the NFC West title for the third time in four years, manhandling the woebegone Los Angeles Rams in a 24-3 victory . Here's what we learned on Thursday Night Football: 1. The Rams tend to drag the Seahawks down into th... more

The NFL is looking into the New York Giants' sideline use of walkie-talkies during their Week 14 victory over the Dallas Cowboys, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via a source informed of the league's plans. The hand-held communication de... more

All last week, Colts wide receiver T.Y. Hilton referred to Indianapolis' divisional showdown with Houston as "Game 7 ." After losing to the Texans with first place on the line, the disappointing Colts are in danger of missing the playoffs for a sec... more

With five losses in the past seven games, Rex Ryan is on the hot seat in Buffalo. Bills players have made it clear this week, though, that they want their head coach to remain in place next season. "As players, we support our coach...If it was up... more

Speaking Wednesday at the Winter League Meeting in Irving, Texas, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell reaffirmed  there are no acceptable stadium solutions on the table in either San Diego or Oakland. The NFL will continue to work with those cities, Goo... more

Michael Floyd's disastrous 2016 season has cost him a job. The Arizona Cardinals announced Wednesday that they have released the wide receiver in the wake of Monday's arrest on drunken driving charges. Floyd was previously arrested in 2011 for dri... more

At its highest level, football is about survival. Even in an era of heightened concussion awareness, with new rules designed to promote safety, injuries take their toll on the sport's premier players. J.J. Watt's back injury prevented the Texans star... more

Le'Veon Bell crashed the league's MVP party with his own personal snow festival in Buffalo, becoming the first player this season to outgain an opponent by himself. Since the Steelers began running their offense through Bell at midseason, the... more

The Dolphins have added veteran quarterback insurance in the wake of Ryan Tannehill's knee sprain . Former Texans signal-caller T.J. Yates signed with Miami on Tuesday. Yates announced the transaction on Twitter earlier in the day: #FinsUp â... more

The New England Patriots exploded for 496 yards against the league's No. 1 defense, staving off a Baltimore Ravens comeback attempt for a 30-23 victory on Monday night. Here's what we learned in the Week 14 finale: 1. Relegated to a dink-and-dunk... more

Buffalo Bills coach Rex Ryan was noncommittal after Sunday's loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers when asked about his quarterback plans for Week 15 . After reviewing the game film, Ryan told reporters Monday that Tyrod Taylor will remain the starter be... more

The Green Bay Packers played their best game of the season in a lopsided 38-10 victory over the Seattle Seahawks in Week 14. Here's what we learned: 1. Putting the offensive handwringing of October and the defensive meltdowns of November in the... more

Safety Rashad Johnson jarred the ball loose from tight end A.J. Derby, thwarting a potential game-tying field-goal drive and securing a 13-10 victory for the Tennessee Titans (7-6) over the Denver Broncos (8-5) in Week 14. Here's what we learned:... more

The Kansas City Chiefs took control of the AFC West with a 21-13 victory over the Oakland Raiders in the severe cold of Arrowhead Stadium. Here's what we learned in Thursday night's Week 14 kickoff: 1. Andy Reid's club manhandled Oakland's... more

The Kansas City Chiefs are sitting on a secret weapon if they lock up a playoff berth in the next few weeks. Pro Bowl running back Jamaal Charles is eligible to return from injured reserve in Week 17 after undergoing surgery to trim his meniscus e... more

As one of the hottest quarterbacks in the league, Marcus Mariota has the Tennessee Titans in a three-way tie atop the AFC South. Since Week 6, no quarterback has posted a higher passer rating (117.7) or accounted for more touchdowns (23) while the... more

Four years ago, the Baltimore Ravens made an in-season change at offensive coordinator, squeaked into the playoffs and walked away with the Lombardi Trophy. Can they pull off a similar feat this season? No one doubts a smashmouth Baltimore defens... more

With the final stretch of the 2016 NFL season upon us, the Pro Bowl picture is shaping up. Before fan voting ends on Dec. 13, Chris Wesseling takes a look at the players who most deserve to make the Pro Bowl for the first time. Of course, it's no... more

The Carolina Panthers' top defensive star is closer to returning to the field. Luke Kuechly was a limited participiant in practice Wednesday. It was the first time the linebacker has practiced since leaving the Panthers' Week 11 victory with a... more

What's wrong with September sensation Carson Wentz? After roaring out to a passer rating over 100 in three of his first four NFL games, Philadelphia's rookie quarterback is the league's lowest-rated passer since Week 6. The Eagles' offense has go... more

Former Heisman Trophy winner and Chicago Bears' first-round pick Rashaan Salaam was found dead Monday night in Boulder, Colo. He was 42. Boulder police told the University of Colorado there were no signs of foul play. Salaam rushed for 2,055 yard... more

Justin Forsett is reuniting with Gary Kubiak in Denver. The Broncos have claimed Forsett off waivers from the Lions, the team made official Tuesday. Might Forsett contribute as soon as this week's game at Tennessee? Rookie Devontae Booker is... more

If the Atlanta Falcons are going to hold off the surging Tampa Bay Buccaneers to win the NFC South, they will have to do it with a hobbled Julio Jones. Coach Dan Quinn revealed Monday that a turf-toe injury sidelined the All Pro wide receiver in th... more

Propelled by Thomas Rawls' long-awaited return to dominant rookie-year form , the Seahawks enjoyed their first 40-point game since November of 2013 in Sunday night's lopsided victory over the Panthers. Although Rawls averaged 108.0 yards as a star... more

Le'Veon Bell became the first running back this season to rush for 100 yards versus the improved Giants' defense, leading the Pittsburgh Steelers to a convincing 24-14 victory over New York in Week 13. Here's what we learned: 1. The Steelers have... more

Joe Flacco passed for a season-high 381 yards and four touchdowns, leading the (7-5) Baltimore Ravens to a lopsided 38-6 victory over the (7-5) Miami Dolphins in Week 13. Here's what we learned: 1. Baltimore entered Week 13 with an imbalanced tea... more

Will Darrelle Revis' nightmare season spell the end of his New York Jets career? Citing sources close to the 31-year-old cornerback, the New York Daily News reported Thursday that Revis has essentially "tanked" this season because he's no longer... more

Kyle Wilber forced a fumble from punt returner Adam Thielen, setting up Dez Bryant's go-ahead touchdown in the Dallas Cowboys' 17-15 victory over the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday Night Football. Here's what we learned in the kickoff to Week 13:... more

As the Giants prepare for a rare interconference showdown at Pittsburgh this weekend, inquiring minds want to know: Will the G-Men unleash Odell Beckham on punt returns as the Steelers do with their own All-Pro wide receiver, Antonio Brown? With pr... more

The Patriots aren't underestimating the NFL's lowest-ranked scoring offense in advance of this week's matchup with the Rams. Even if rookie Jared Goff needed three months to displace Case Keenum as Los Angeles' starting quarterback, New England coa... more

A wise old man on the barstool next to me once said the NFL season doesn't truly begin until Thanksgiving. Now that the year's final month is upon us, we can shed the lowly (49ers, Jaguars), the unfortunate (Bengals, Jets) and the woebegone (Panthers... more

Although Sammy Watkins enjoyed a successful return to game action in Buffalo's Week 12 victory over Jacksonville, the Bills' No. 1 receiver isn't out of the woods just yet. Team trainers pulled Watkins out of Wednesday's practice after he experienc... more

The unprecedented coaching conundrums and bizarre final 20 minutes in Kansas City's Week 12 victory over Denver overshadowed a dominant return to form by Chiefs linebacker Justin Houston. Nine months removed from ACL surgery, Houston almost... more

The NFC South-leading Atlanta Falcons' most glaring weakness is about to grow even more fragile. Doctors have confirmed that the pectoral injury to Desmond Trufant requires surgery . The Falcons announced Tuesday that they have placed the Pro Bowl... more

The Green Bay Packers ended their four-game losing streak, keeping their playoff hopes alive with a 27-13 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 12. Here's what we learned on Monday Night Football: 1. Along with his sterling showing at Atl... more

Struggling wideout Nelson Agholor wasn't the only notable inactive for the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 12. Right guard Brandon Brooks was held out of Monday night's 27-13 loss to the Green Bay Packers after being hospitalized with an illness earl... more

Coach Todd Bowles is not ready to throw in the towel on the 2016 season following the New York Jets' hard-fought Week 12 loss to the New England Patriots. Bowles announced Monday that veteran Ryan Fitzpatrick will remain the starting quarterback... more

Rookie wideout Malcolm Mitchell beat Darrelle Revis' coverage for a pair of touchdowns, leading the New England Patriots  (9-2)  to a nail-biting 22-17 victory over the New York Jets  (3-8)  in Week 12. Here's what we learned: 1. Each of the prev... more

Speedy wideout Taylor Gabriel raced to the end zone on a pair of brilliant catch-and-runs, leading the Atlanta Falcons (7-4) to a 38-19 victory over the Arizona Cardinals (4-6-1) in Week 12. Here's what we learned: 1. Entering the season, Arizona... more

Washington Redskins general manager Scot McCloughan is going to pay for doubting Kirk Cousins' value as the face of the franchise this past offseason. Entering Thursday's marquee showdown at Dallas, Cousins boasted the highest passer rating of an... more

A month ago, Landon Collins was emerging as the obvious candidate to capture the Pro Football Writers of America's Most Improved Player of the Year award . After helping spark the New York Giants' five-game winning streak, the second-year safety is n... more

The Pittsburgh Steelers have put an emphatic end to their midseason doldrums, winning twice in a five-day span to reclaim first place in the AFC North. "We've been playing a lot better ," All-Pro running back Le'Veon Bell told NFL Network's Aditi... more

When the Cardinals travel to Atlanta this weekend, the NFL's highest-octane 2015 offense will be staring longingly across the field at the league's premier offense in 2016. After finishing as the MVP runner-up for last year's NFC West champions, Ca... more

For the third time in four years, the Arizona Cardinals are getting precious little return on their first-round draft investment. Defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche, the team's top draft pick in 2016, has been a healthy scratch the past two games af... more

Roster building through free agency is all too often a recipe for disappointment in the modern NFL. As the Raiders, Giants, Redskins and Bills have proven this year, though, organizations that once struggled to post winning records can use the talen... more

Eddie Lacy's much-anticipated bounce-back season is officially over, leaving the rotund running back's Green Bay future up in the air. At his Wednesday press conference, Packers coach Mike McCarthy ruled out the possibility of a 2016 return for La... more

Dion Jordan is back on the Miami Dolphins' radar. The No. 3 overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft is expected to practice Wednesday for the first time in nearly two years, reports the Miami Herald. Jordan has been cleared to practice after spending... more

Buoyed by a pair of long touchdowns in the fourth quarter, the 8-2 Oakland Raiders pulled off a 27-20 comeback victory over the 6-4 Houston Texans in Mexico City. Here's what we learned during the Week 11 edition of Monday Night Football: 1. Bogg... more

Watching Steve Smith haul in his 1,000th career catch on Sunday, it's natural to wonder if the ageless wide receiver might consider delaying retirement for a second straight year. Still playing at a high level at age 37, Smith filled a highlight r... more

A nightmare-inducing season for the Chicago Bears has brought more frightening news to coach John Fox. Jay Cutler is undergoing tests for a shoulder injury sustained in Sunday's loss to the New York Giants, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported, vi... more

The Cincinnati Bengals' offense is in dire straits after Sunday's 16-12 loss to the Buffalo Bills. As if All-Pro wide receiver A.J. Green's strained hamstring wasn't bad enough, tailback Giovani Bernard suffered a torn ACL during the game, Bengal... more

Russell Wilson led a big-play offense, hauling in the first ever touchdown pass by a Seattle quarterback as the Seahawks cruised to a 26-15 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 11. Here's what we learned: 1. This is Seattle's time of year.... more

Andrew Luck converted a third-down pass to T.Y. Hilton late in the fourth quarter, icing a 24-17 Indianapolis Colts victory over the surging Tennessee Titans. Here's what we learned in the Week 11 AFC South tilt: 1. Through two quarters, Luck was... more

The Carolina Panthers won Thursday night's game but lost their star linebacker. Panthers coach Ron Rivera said Friday that Luke Kuechly is in concussion protocol following a hit late in the fourth quarter of the Panthers' 23-20 victory over the N... more

The New Orleans Saints' kicking woes resurfaced again late in the first half of Thursday Night Football . After Carolina Panthers rookie Vernon Butler blocked a Wil Lutz field-goal attempt, star linebacker Luke Kuechly scooped the ball off the tu... more

Indianapolis has won 10 straight matchups versus Tennessee, dominating a weak AFC South over the past half-decade. Colts coach Chuck Pagano understands, though, that this week's showdown with the surging division-rival Titans will be the toughest o... more

A field of 94 nominees for the Pro Football Hall of Fame's Class of 2017 was condensed to 26 candidates on Wednesday during NFL Network's Gold Jacket Semifinalists special. The 26 semifinalists will be trimmed to 15 finalists in early January. T... more

When the Panthers released Steve Smith back in March of 2014 , the controversial decision sent shock waves throughout the Carolinas. The greatest player in franchise history had planned to play one more season with the Panthers before hanging up his... more

The beginning of every league year brings newfound hope in the form of veteran free agents. Whether your team is rebuilding its roster or adding a few missing pieces for a playoff run, the infusion of proven talent promises that this year will be bet... more

The Arizona Cardinals have rewarded Jaron Brown with a semblance of security while the wide receiver recovers from a season-ending ACL injury . Brown signed a contract extension with the team on Wednesday, per agent CJ LaBoy. The team announced th... more

Carolina's Week 10 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs couldn't have been more painful . The Panthers dominated total yardage, Cam Newton converted a string of third downs and the defensive line shut down Alex Smith's aerial attack. Before All-Pro safet... more

Since erupting for more than 125 rushing yards in each of his first four NFL starts, Los Angeles Rams running back Todd Gurley has reached the century mark just once in 17 games. The 2015 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year broke free for more runs of... more

Jason Witten and Tony Romo are longtime teammates, close friends and road roommates. Once upon a time, Terrell Owens famously accused "his quarterback " of only having eyes for the All-Pro tight end in Dallas' aerial attack. Of Witten's 1,064 ca... more

The Seahawks have become reliant upon Russell Wilson's magic . When an injury-ravaged Wilson limped into Arizona for a mid-October 6-6 tie on Sunday Night Football , Seattle's offense was dysfunctional. Minus Wilson's unparalleled elusiveness, the... more

Kiko Alonso returned a Philip Rivers interception for a 60-yard touchdown, propelling the Miami Dolphins a 31-24 victory over the San Diego Chargers in Week 10. Here's what we learned: 1. On a day when Rivers reached the 300-touchdown club and byp... more

The Philadelphia Eagles (5-4) dusted off Ryan Mathews and a power-rushing attack, grinding out a 24-15 victory over the Atlanta Falcons (6-4) in Week 10. Here's what we learned: 1. The Eagles designed their game plan to control the clock and keep... more

Coming back from two knee surgeries, scatback Dion Lewis is an intriguing wildcard for the New England Patriots offense in the second half of the season. Lewis returned to practice in late October and was activated off the PUP list Saturday for... more

After trailing 7-6 at halftime, the Baltimore Ravens scored three second-half touchdowns to run away from the Cleveland Browns in a 28-7 victory to kick off the NFL's Week 10 slate. Here's what we learned Thursday night: 1. The final numbers look... more

The Arizona Cardinals have been one of the NFL season's biggest surprises, plummeting from the NFC Championship Game to a losing record after nine weeks. Carson Palmer's aggressive downfield aerial attack has been reduced to an afterthought, unable... more

Before Sheldon Richardson was the "odd man out " of the New York Jets' defensive front, he was a subject of trade discussions with the Dallas Cowboys. As the trade deadline approached last week, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported the Jets we... more

The Browns are in danger of authoring the second 0-16 season the NFL has ever seen. Come January, the talent-starved, woebegone 49ers will have to decide whether to hire their third head coach in three seasons. And yet, the Jaguars might just be the... more

Antonio Brown has his head coach's support after pleading with the rest of the Pittsburgh Steelers receivers to "step in, step up and make plays " when he faces double teams. "It's important we get consistent contributions from guys not named Anto... more

The Seahawks and Bills treated the football world to the most entertaining prime-time showdown of the year, as Seattle hung on for a 31-25 victory in a game that came down to an end-zone throw on Buffalo's final play. Here's what we learned: 1. L... more

The Los Angeles faithful's "We want Goff! " chants are falling on deaf ears. Coach Jeff Fisher confirmed during Monday's press conference that Case Keenum will remain the starting quarterback versus the New York Jets in Week 10. Jared Goff began... more

The Indianapolis Colts held off a furious Aaron Rodgers comeback attempt late in the fourth quarter, hanging onto a 31-26 upset victory over the Green Bay Packers in Week 9. Here's what we learned: 1. A more intense Colts squad simply outplayed t... more

Carson Wentz and Jordan Matthews failed to hook up on a fourth-down end-zone fade, leaving the New York Giants (5-3) with a 28-23 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles (4-4) in Week 9. Here's what we learned: 1. It was fitting that Philadelphia's... more

Jameis Winston missed the first snaps of his nascent NFL career after suffering a knee injury late in the fourth quarter of Thursday night's 43-28 loss to the Falcons. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers' second-year quarterback took a punishing hit from... more

Are the Tennessee Titans finally prepared to unleash preseason sensation Derrick Henry? With star running back DeMarco Murray nursing a toe injury, coach Mike Mularkey indicated the plan is to increase his rookie power back's workload at San Diego... more

Will Ben Roethlisberger be under center when the Steelers travel to Baltimore for their divisional showdown on Sunday? Roethlisberger is just two weeks removed from meniscus surgery , but the Ravens firmly believe he will be leading Pittsburgh's of... more

The NFL's hottest quarterback will soon be adding another weapon to his arsenal. The New England Patriots are holding out hope that running back Dion Lewis will be ready to re-join the backfield rotation for next week's showdown with the Seattle... more

With the schedule flipping from Week 8 to Week 9, we've reached the midpoint of the 2016 season -- which means it's time for Chris Wesseling to present his Midseason All-Pro team: MIDSEASON ALL-PROS: OFFENSE MIDSEASON ALL-PROS: DEFENSE... more

With the schedule flipping from Week 8 to Week 9, we've reached the midpoint of the 2016 season -- which means it's time for Chris Wesseling to present his Midseason All-Pro team: MIDSEASON ALL-PROS: OFFENSE MIDSEASON ALL-PROS: DEFENSE... more

The Seahawks are adding a former New York Giants third-round draft pick for depth with Pro Bowl defensive lineman Michael Bennett sidelined for a few weeks . Seattle has signed defensive end Damontre Moore, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reporte... more

Rookie power back Jordan Howard exploded for 202 yards and a touchdown, leading the Chicago Bears to a 20-10 upset victory over the Minnesota Vikings in Week 8. Here's what we learned on Monday night: 1. Fantasy footballers have to be pulling the... more

From the outside looking in, Monday's Jamie Collins trade was the most stupefying of the Bill Belichick era because of the timing. Why would the AFC's overwhelming Super Bowl favorite trade its best defensive playmaker at midseason? As it turns... more

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are cutting ties with a recent second-round draft pick. The team has waived cornerback Johnthan Banks, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via a source with knowledge of the situation. After starting 37 of 48 game... more

Mohamed Sanu hauled in five passes for 50 yards and a touchdown on the Falcons' game-winning drive, leading Atlanta to a 33-32 comeback victory over the Green Bay Packers in a Week 8 thriller. Here's what we learned: 1. No Randall Cobb, no Ty... more

Tom Brady tossed four touchdowns in the first three quarters, leading the New England Patriots to a convincing 41-25 victory over the Buffalo Bills in Week 8. Here's what we learned: 1. Brady should have had a fifth touchdown pass, but a wide ope... more

Marcus Mariota and DeMarco Murray played starring roles as the Tennessee Titans raced out to an early lead and cruised to a 36-22 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars to kick off Week 8. Here's what we learned on Thursday Night Football: 1. The... more

Teams in the market for a veteran wide receiver in advance of the Nov. 1 trade deadline shouldn't count on Chicago Bears impending free agent Alshon Jeffery as a realistic option. Appearing on Wednesday's edition of Up to the Minute Live , NFL Netw... more

The Jared Goff watch is in full bloom in Los Angeles. One week after NFL Network's Steve Wyche reported that the No. 1 overall pick in the 2016 draft would begin seeing increased practice reps , the Los Angeles Rams provided a strong hint that Goff... more

Arian Foster announced his retirement early this week, closing the books on one of the most productive careers by an undrafted running back in modern NFL history. Among all players with a minimum of 1,000 touches since 2010, per NFL Research, Foster... more

Two days after getting their struggling ground attack back on track in a victory over the Texans, the Broncos are bracing for the absence of their starting running back. C.J. Anderson is expected to miss at least a few weeks with a bone bruise in... more

Bill Belichick wasn't finished working the phones after trading for linebacker Kyle Van Noy on Tuesday. New England traded tight end A.J. Derby to Denver, the Broncos announced later that afternoon. The Patriots will receive a fifth-round draft pi... more

Brock Osweiler has led the fewest touchdown drives of any starting quarterback this season. In the Texans' Monday night loss at Denver, the former Broncos signal-caller posted one of the lowest single-game yards-per-attempt figures in modern NFL his... more

For the third consecutive year, New England traded for linebacker depth in advance of the NFL's trade deadline. The Patriots acquired third-year linebacker Kyle Van Noy from the Detroit Lions. Per NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, the Patriots will also... more

The Broncos got back on track following a two-game losing streak, stifling former Denver quarterback Brock Osweiler and the Houston Texans' offense in a 27-9 victory Monday night. Here's what we learned: 1. The Denver faithful let out a hearty je... more

In the market for a deep-threat wide receiver, the Philadelphia Eagles have reached out to former coach Chip Kelly's new organization. The Eagles and San Francisco 49ers are in discussion about a potential trade involving wide receiver Torrey Smith... more

Rendered a non-factor in Miami's offense amid Jay Ajayi's emergence as a burgeoning superstar , veteran running back Arian Foster announced his retirement Monday. Foster made his Dolphins debut as the Week 1 starter, but was waylaid by the latest i... more

The Cleveland Browns aren't the only team issuing denials that their star tackle is on the trade block. Speaking to reporters Monday, San Francisco 49ers coach Chip Kelly denied any knowledge that left tackle Joe Staley is available in advance of... more

Coming out of LSU in 2014, Dolphins receiver Jarvis Landry drew comparisons to former Steelers great Hines Ward for his strong hands, run-after-catch physicality and the ability to get open with consistency in the middle of the field. After Sunday'... more

Falcons coach Dan Quinn's fourth-down gamble backfired, shifting the San Diego Chargers' 2016 fortunes with a 33-30 overtime victory over Atlanta in Week 7. Here's what we learned: 1. Don't count Mike McCoy's squad out of the AFC West race after a... more

Philadelphia's defense took advantage of the Minnesota Vikings' injury-ravaged offensive line in Week 7, as the Eagles (4-2) defeated the NFL's last unbeaten team in a convincing 21-10 victory. Here's what we learned: 1. The Vikings and Eagles ent... more

The Arizona Cardinals expect to have their starting quarterback for Sunday night's clash with the Seattle Seahawks, but their deep-threat receiver's status is more cloudy. Although Carson Palmer is listed as "questionable" with a hamstring injury,... more

Tony Romo won't be in the lineup , but the Cowboys will have plenty of reinforcements when they return from the bye in Week 8. On Friday's appearance with Dallas' KTVT, per The Dallas Morning News , owner Jerry Jones said he expects the trio of wid... more

Davante Adams corralled a career-high 13 passes for 132 yards and a pair of touchdowns, leading the Green Bay Packers to a 26-10 victory over the Chicago Bears in Week 7. Here's what we learned: 1. As it turns out, we haven't seen the last of Jay... more

After nearly four years without a 100-yard rusher, Frank Gore finally broke the most infamous streak of the 2016 season in last week's dumbfounding collapse versus the Texans . That accomplishment is little solace to the 33-year-old running back,... more

The Cowboys enter the Week 7 bye on a high note, riding the remarkable rookie duo of Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott to the top of the NFC East. What inquiring football minds want to know is how Dallas' brass will handle a delicate quarterback... more

The Dolphins are bracing for the loss of one of their premier defensive standouts. The fear in Miami is that Pro Bowl safety Reshad Jones tore his rotator cuff in Sunday's victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport repo... more

The Pittsburgh Steelers will be without starting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger for Week 7 versus the New England Patriots. Roethlisberger underwent surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee, coach Mike Tomlin announced Monday via a team... more

Earl Thomas intercepted a pass off of Julio Jones' fingertips, setting up Steven Hauschka's go-ahead field goal as the Seahawks escaped with a 26-24 victory over the Atlanta Falcons. Here's what we learned: 1. The interception was the first targe... more

Rob Gronkowski caught seven passes for a career-high 162 yards and a touchdown, leading the New England Patriots to a 35-17 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 6. Here's what we learned: 1. Controlling the line of scrimmage on both sides o... more

San Diego's rookie draft class played a starring role Thursday night, leading the Chargers to a 21-13 victory over the Denver Broncos in Week 6. Here's what we learned: 1. Qualcomm Stadium exhaled a collective sigh of relief when C.J. Anderson's... more

The San Diego Chargers have yet to offer a public vote of confidence for coach Mike McCoy in the wake of the team's devastating string of blown leads to open the season. But did McCoy help save his job with the Chargers' 21-13 win over the Denver... more

Kansas City Chiefs star running back Jamaal Charles was a non-factor in his 2016 debut, gaining just 7 yards on two rushing attempts in last week's loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. The four-time Pro Bowler expects to have a bigger role this week ve... more

The awakening is upon us. As NFL.com fantasy analyst Matt Harmon pointed out last weekend, the early portion of the 2016 NFL season suggests we are in the midst of the year of the wayward-soul running back . Prominent prodigal sons such as Christi... more

Ryan Tannehill's job might be safe in Miami , but that same leeway doesn't apply to the starting left tackle and left guard from the Dolphins' Week 5 loss to the Titans. The team has waived offensive linemen Billy Turner, Dallas Thomas and Jamil... more

Embattled rookie kicker Roberto Aguayo shook off a pair of missed field goals to drill the game-winner from 38 yards out, leading the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a 17-14 victory over the Carolina Panthers in a wild and wacky NFC South showdown Monday ni... more

The NFL's top-ranked offense won the much ballyhooed battle versus Von Miller's swarming defense, as the Atlanta Falcons (4-1) toppled the Broncos from the ranks of the unbeaten with a 23-16 victory in Denver. Here's what we learned: 1. It's a sh... more

Breshad Perriman's 23-yard touchdown was overturned on replay review with 30 seconds remaining in the game, preserving a 16-10 victory for the Washington Redskins over the Baltimore Ravens in Week 5. Here's what we learned: 1. The Ravens appeared... more

Of all common football injuries, the patellar tendon rupture has long offered the lowest rate of recovery to pre-injury effectiveness. The patellar tendon anchors the thigh's quadriceps muscle to the shin, allowing the knee to flex and extend. Beca... more

This week's marquee matchup features the NFL's highest-scoring offense versus the dominant defense of the past two seasons. The question on the mind of 4-0 Denver Broncos fans as they prepare to square off with the 3-1 Atlanta Falcons: who will be... more

There's nothing like a fruitless trip across the pond for forced introspection. The latest London loser to wonder where it all went wrong, the Indianapolis Colts have already fired two players while fielding criticism of high-profile members of th... more

The NFL veered away from recent trends in the first quarter of the 2016 season. The marquee quarterbacks took a backseat, with Peyton Manning retired, Tom Brady suspended for four games, Cam Newton struggling, Aaron Rodgers still trying to prove last... more

Rob Gronkowski has managed a paltry one catch for 11 yards since returning from a hamstring injury in Week 3, leading frustrated fantasy owners with poor life skills to hound the All-Pro tight end in search of answers. If Gronkowski is healthy eno... more

The recent NFL tradition of heads rolling upon the losing team's return from London continued on Tuesday. A pair of starters on Indianapolis' 30th-ranked scoring defense have lost their jobs. The Colts released cornerback Antonio Cromartie and wa... more

The Arizona Cardinals' depth will be tested after losing a couple of key contributors during their Week 4 loss to the Los Angeles Rams. The Cardinals placed running back Chris Johnson and defensive back Tyvon Branch on injured reserve, the team... more

The Minnesota Vikings' swarming defense limited Odell Beckham to the lowest output of his career, stifling the New York Giants' offense in a convincing 24-10 victory Monday night. Here's what we learned in the Week 4 tilt: 1. Since making his deb... more

Terrance West displaced Justin Forsett as the Ravens' starting tailback in Week 4, generating Baltimore's first 100-yard rushing performance since October of last season. Although West proved to be a significant upgrade, growing stronger as Sunday'... more

With Carson Palmer in the locker room for concussion evaluation, Rams linebacker Mark Barron intercepted backup quarterback Drew Stanton to seal a 17-13 victory for the Los Angeles Rams over the Arizona Cardinals in Week 4. Here's what we learned:... more

Matt Ryan and Julio Jones each established career highs and franchise records, eviscerating the Carolina Panthers' inexperienced secondary in a fireworks display that resulted in a 48-33 Atlanta Falcons victory Sunday. Here's what we learned: 1.... more

A.J. Green was uncoverable against the Miami Dolphins on Thursday night, hauling in 10 passes for 173 yards and a touchdown as the Cincinnati Bengals cruised to a 22-7 victory in Week 4. Here's what we learned: 1. With veteran cornerback Byron Ma... more

Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Marcus Peters is on the Pittsburgh Steelers' radar after capturing AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors on Wednesday. The league's most dangerous cover man, Peters intercepted a pair of passes for the second consec... more

Former second-round draft pick Justin Hunter won't realize his potential in Miami. The Dolphins have released the fourth-year wide receiver, the team announced on Wednesday. Claimed off waivers from the Tennessee Titans in early September, Hunte... more

Terrelle Pryor torched Pro Bowl cornerback Desmond Trufant for a 50-yard touchdown in preseason action, serving notice that his transition from quarterback to wide receiver shouldn't be disregarded as a novelty act. Three games into his position... more

J.J. Watt will have to wait until next season to make a serious run at an unprecedented fourth NFL Defensive Player of the Year award . The league's dominant defensive force re-injured his back during Houston's Week 3 loss to the New England Patrio... more

The Dallas Cowboys will have to do without a key starter on their celebrated offensive line. Second-year guard La'el Collins has torn a ligament in his foot, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via a source informed of the injury. A second... more

Joique Bell has found a new home in the NFC North. The former Detroit running back has agreed to terms with Chicago, Bell announced Tuesday on Twitter . Bell, 30, was released by the Lions in February after averaging an inefficient 3.5 yards per... more

The Chicago Bears will see a changing of the guard in their backfield this week. Already losing work to rookie Jordan Howard, starting tailback Jeremy Langford is expected to miss the next four-to-six weeks with an ankle injury sustained in Sunday... more

Atlanta's backfield tag-team of Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman combined for 296 yards and four touchdowns, leading the Falcons to a 45-32 shootout victory over the New Orleans Saints on Monday night. Here's what we learned: 1. Matt Ryan is... more

Stacking up one impressive performance after another, Carson Wentz is streaking out to a comfortable lead in the Offensive Rookie of the Year race. Wentz tossed a pair of touchdowns en route to his first 300-yard performance, leading the Philadelphia... more

Denver found an aerial attack on Sunday, with Trevor Siemian tossing four touchdowns to lead the Broncos (3-0) to a 29-17 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals (1-2). Here's what we learned: 1. Cincinnati's defense keyed on C.J. Anderson and the gr... more

This edition of the Houston Texans was supposed to be different. Three times in the past five years, the Texans have captured the AFC South crown only to prove they couldn't hang with the class of the conference in postseason action. The first tw... more

Has any quarterback inspired loftier trade reviews than Carson Palmer? Immediately after cajoling the Cincinnati Bengals into parting with Palmer for first- and second-round draft picks in October of 2011, Hue Jackson -- then of the Oakland Raiders... more

Cleveland fans are all too familiar with feelings of lamentation for franchise saviors bypassed by the Browns. A native of northern Ohio, Ben Roethlisberger watched his hometown team eschew his obvious talents in favor of tight end Kellen Winslow... more

When Percy Harvin became the first slot receiver to win the NFL's Offensive Rookie of the Year award in 2009, he was the exception to the prevailing wisdom that the position was solely the domain of smaller, shiftier wideouts unable to survive outsid... more

Adrian Peterson's loss is Ronnie Hillman's gain. With Peterson on the shelf, the Minnesota Vikings signed Hillman on Wednesday, coach Mike Zimmer announced. An 11-game starter with the Super Bowl champions last season, Hillman was released by the... more

The deck continues to stack against Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck. Wide receiver Donte Moncrief will miss the next four to six weeks with a fractured shoulder blade, coach Chuck Pagano revealed in Wednesday's press conference. The inju... more

Philadelphia Eagles coach Doug Pederson has already seen promising results after shortening Carson Wentz's delivery and streamlining his footwork. Now Pederson wants his rookie quarterback to concentrate on protecting the rest of his body. As... more

Might the Packers be adding a much-needed speed element to their ailing offensive attack? Free agent running back C.J. Spiller is visiting Green Bay on Tuesday, reported ESPN's Adam Caplan. The Packers have an open roster spot and a need for... more

For the second straight game, Carson Wentz had the look of a quarterback solution for the Eagles. The hotshot rookie led Philadelphia to a convincing 29-14 victory over the Chicago Bears on Monday night. Here's what we learned: 1. Fans of the Bro... more

Jay Cutler's night ended prematurely in the Chicago Bears' 29-14 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday night. The Chicago Bears quarterback was ushered to the locker room at the end of the third quarter after suffering a right thumb injury. Cu... more

With a lifetime's worth of financial security hanging in the balance, Kirk Cousins is under as much pressure as any quarterback this season. After tossing three interceptions and missing a host of open receivers through two games, he's facing incr... more

Sunday's victory over the Indianapolis Colts was costly one for the Denver Broncos. Star pass rusher DeMarcus Ware suffered an ulna fracture near his elbow, coach Gary Kubiak revealed after the game. Ware is set to undergo surgery on Tuesday and i... more

Von Miller led a ferocious Denver defense that accounted for two touchdowns in the Broncos' 34-20 victory over the Indianapolis Colts in Week 2. Here's what we learned: 1. The Colts simply don't have the talent on either side of the ball to knock... more

Ben Roethlisberger threw three touchdown passes in the driving rain to lead the Pittsburgh Steelers to a 24-16 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 2. Here's what we learned: 1. With rangy linebacker Ryan Shazier leading the way, the Steel... more

Protesting the unflagged helmet-to-helmet blows absorbed by Cam Newton in the season opener, Panthers coach Ron Rivera drew comparisons to the NBA's desperate Hack-a-Shaq strategy to contain behemoth Basketball Hall of Fame center Shaquille O'Neal.... more

Three New York receivers topped 90 yards apiece to lead the Jets to a 37-31 shootout victory over the Buffalo Bills in a wild Thursday night game chock-full of big plays and momentum swings. Here's what we learned: 1. Reminiscent of last week's l... more

Less than two months after Brett Favre headlined the 54th Pro Football Hall of Fame class , the nominees for the 55th class have been revealed. Former San Diego Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson leads the list of first-year eligibles for th... more

Could recently cut cornerback Tharold Simon come back to haunt the Seattle Seahawks with a division rival? The Arizona Cardinals claimed Simon off waivers on Wednesday, the team announced. The Cardinals have been seeking veteran help at the posit... more

Thomas Rawls has reclaimed his spot atop the Seattle Seahawks' backfield depth chart. Coach Pete Carroll confirmed Wednesday that Rawls will start versus the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday. The plan all along was for Rawls to replace retired superst... more

The NFL's opening Sunday saw Lamar Miller as the only player to reach 100 rushing yards. While rushing production is down around the league in an increasingly pass-heavy era, the role of pass-catching running backs continues to expand. Week 1 brou... more

After watching Case Keenum author one of the least effective season openers of the 21st century, Los Angeles Rams coach Jeff Fisher said Tuesday that he had no plans to change his starting quarterback for Sunday's home opener versus the Seattle... more

The fallout from the Carolina Panthers' Week 1 loss to the Denver Broncos centered on a series of helmet-to-helmet hits absorbed by Cam Newton. Coach Ron Rivera intimated that his quarterback doesn't receive the same "veteran favoritism" as other... more

The 49ers boast the largest margin of victory in Week 1 after dismantling the Los Angeles Rams on Monday night, while the Steelers showcased their potent, exciting offense in a victory over the Redskins. Here's what we learned from Monday's two gam... more

Russell Wilson led the Seattle Seahawks in a 12-10 victory over the Miami Dolphins. Here's what we learned. 1. Kept out of the end zone for 59 minutes, Russell Wilson responded to Ryan Tannehill's 86-yard, go-ahead touchdown drive with his own... more

The Raiders rallied to beat the Saints 35-34 behind Derek Carr's heady play and a gutsy two-point call from Jack Del Rio. Here's what we learned: 1. Credit goes to Raiders coach Jack Del Rio, who opted for the winning two-point conversion with jus... more

Carolina Panthers kicker Graham Gano missed a 50-yard field goal with nine seconds remaining, salvaging a 21-20 Denver Broncos victory in the 2016 NFL Kickoff. Here's what you need to know: 1. Carolina controlled the Super Bowl 50 rematch until a... more

Trevor Siemian will make his first professional start in Thursday night's 2016 NFL Kickoff. If not for a few twists and turns last month, it could have been Case Keenum starting for the Denver Broncos in the Super Bowl 50 rematch with the Carolina... more

J.J. Watt briefly considered life without football after undergoing surgery to replace five muscles in his lower abdomen last January. Watt had already been battling through a groin injury for six or seven weeks when he tore the core muscles so sev... more

After missing the majority of August, Tyrann Mathieu and John Brown are noticeably absent from the Arizona Cardinals' Week 1 injury report. Returning from a December ACL tear, Mathieu sat out the entire preseason docket. Still, coach Bruce Arians h... more

In a bizarre span of five days, Justin Forsett has gone from the top of Baltimore's depth chart to out of work to Week 1 starter versus the Bills. After re-signing an apparently ceremonial two-year, $6 million contract with the Ravens on Monday, Fo... more

Armed with an exceptional dose of leverage, Drew Brees imposed a negotiating deadline that succeeded in spurring action for a lucrative new contract. Brees and the New Orleans Saints agreed on a contract extension Wednesday, NFL Network Insider Ian... more

Jimmy Garoppolo might not be the next Tom Brady, but his Week 1 opponent sees similarities to another household name of the past decade. During Wednesday's conference call leading up to the Sunday night opener, Arizona Cardinals coach Bruce Arians... more

It seems so long ago when Tony Romo was vying with Aaron Rodgers and J.J. Watt for the 2014 MVP award. The ensuing 20 months have seen Romo doubled over in pain as often as he's reached the end zone. When an increasingly brittle Romo broke a bone... more

Patriots coach Bill Belichick isn't ready to break out the anointing oils for Cardinals running back David Johnson. The Arizona braintrust spent the offseason lavishing unusually lofty praise on their uniquely talented second-year star . Head co... more

Philadelphia Eagles rookie quarterback Carson Wentz couldn't draw up a more fitting opponent than the Cleveland Browns for his NFL debut on Sunday . Still in search of their 25th starting quarterback since being awarded a new franchise in 1999, the... more

After drawing raves from the opening of training camp, Arian Foster has finally pulled ahead of Jay Ajayi on the Miami Dolphins' Week 1 depth chart . Citing Foster's edge in experience, consistency and knowledge of the offense, coach Adam Gase name... more

For the third consecutive summer , the Jacksonville Jaguars are picking up steam as a trendy pick to graduate from also-ran to playoff contender. With the addition of talented starters such as former Denver Broncos playoff hero Malik Jackson, thoug... more

The Cardinals' injury-ravaged secondary is ready for reinforcements after turning Texans quarterbacks Brock Osweiler and Tom Savage into preseason all-stars last week. Two weeks after graduating from the physically unable to perform list to the a... more

Brace yourselves for Case Keenum versus Blaine Gabbert when the Los Angeles Rams open the season on Monday Night Football . If Jared Goff had even a slim chance of overtaking Keenum for the Week 1 quarterback job, Thursday night's performance in th... more

The Indianapolis Colts' first-team offense has scored just six points in three quarters this month. After watching the Philadelphia Eagles' front seven run roughshod over the Colts' perennially beleaguered offensive line in the third preseason game... more

All-Pro defensive back Tyrann Mathieu is expected to be available for the Arizona Cardinals when they do battle with the New England Patriots in the season opener of Sunday Night Football. The same can't be said of speedy wide receiver John Brown,... more

Heading into the 2016 campaign, Around The NFL is taking a closer look at each division over the course of this week. Which storylines -- and players -- will define the coming months within each of the league's eight sectors? Check out the NFC West e... more

Heading into the 2016 campaign, Around The NFL is taking a closer look at each division over the course of this week. Which storylines -- and players -- will define the coming months within each of the league's eight sectors? Check out the AFC West e... more

The Dallas Cowboys are interested in a quarterback with Cleveland Browns ties, but it's not Josh McCown. In need of an experienced backup with Tony Romo sidelined for two months , the Cowboys will work out free agent signal-caller Austin Davis on... more

There are moments when the fortunes of an NFL franchise can pivot on one play. In the wake of Teddy Bridgewater's dislocated knee and torn ACL , however, coach Mike Zimmer won't allow his Minnesota Vikings to lapse into a moment of self-pity. "We... more

Bruce Ellington won't get the chance to fulfill the fantasy football community's overly optimistic projections in Chip Kelly's offense this season. The San Francisco 49ers placed the third-year wide receiver on season-ending injured reserve, the te... more

James Jones is back on the market. Four weeks after Jones signed on with San Diego , the Chargers have released the 32-year-old wideout, the team announced Monday. Jones never got comfortable with the offense of coach Mike McCoy and offensive... more

The Broncos are shopping veteran quarterback Mark Sanchez, with the Cowboys as an obvious target. Denver has contacted Dallas to gauge interest in a trade for Sanchez, NFL Media's Jane Slater reported, via a source informed of the talks. While t... more

Now that Trevor Siemian has won Denver's quarterback competition , Mark Sanchez's future with the organization is up in the air. Releasing Sanchez would save the Broncos $4.5 million while recouping the conditional seventh-round draft pick that was... more

In spite of themselves, the Dallas Cowboys are finally set up to weather the quarterback storm while Tony Romo's increasingly brittle body recovers from yet another crushing blow . Since handing Kyle Orton a $5 million signing bonus to act as prem... more

Embattled Buccaneers rookie Roberto Aguayo kept the wolves at bay in the third preseason game. Tampa Bay's second-round kicker drilled a pair of field goals and three extra points without a miss in the first half of Friday's contest versus Clevela... more

The Carolina Panthers are toying with the idea of adding experience to their greenhorn secondary. Free-agent safety Donte Whitner is flying to Charlotte for a Friday workout , NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, via a source informed of the visit. In... more

The Seahawks understand they are going to miss Marshawn Lynch as the bruising tackle-breaker setting the tone for the past half-decade of near-dynastic NFC dominance . Ever since Thomas Rawls outshined Lynch last season, though, coach Pete Carro... more

Last year at this time, the Cowboys were still trying to figure out how Joseph Randle and Darren McFadden were going to replace reigning Offensive Player of the Year DeMarco Murray. Two weeks before the start of the 2016 season, Dallas' backfield... more

Don't count J.J. Watt out for the season opener just yet. One week after coach Bill O'Brien acknowledged that Watt was in jeopardy of missing the season's first two games , the three-time Defensive Player of the Year is poised to return to the pra... more

When the Carolina Panthers rescinded Josh Norman's franchise tag in April, conventional wisdom suggested general manager Dave Gettleman would use the savings toward a new contract for 2015 breakout star Kawann Short. Although Short reported to... more

As if the Wednesday statement released by the San Diego Chargers wasn't emphatic enough, president of football operations John Spanos followed up by unloading on the representatives for No. 3 overall draft pick Joey Bosa. Spanos pulled the Charger... more

One week after his surprising trade to Philadelphia , enigmatic wide receiver Dorial Green-Beckham will have an opportunity to climb the Eagles' shaky depth chart in Saturday's preseason game versus the Colts. Coach Doug Pederson told reporters... more

Through two weeks of preseason action, no rookie has been more scrutinized than Roberto Aguayo. The second-round draft pick has already missed an extra-point try and a pair of field-goal attempts for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, misfires he concedes... more

The Colts' defense is in dire straits. Concerns over the front seven's ability to generate a pass rush have been trumped by a rash of injuries in the secondary, leading Indianapolis to take a flier on a veteran free agent who has drawn little inter... more

Recovered from last week's fatigue in his throwing arm, 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick is expected to make his 2016 preseason debut Friday night versus the Packers. Kaepernick returned to a complete practice Monday, throwing an array of short a... more

Keenan Lewis was a star under defensive coordinator Rob Ryan in his first season with New Orleans back in 2013. Now that Dennis Allen is running the defense, the Saints have cut ties with the veteran cornerback. Is it the change in coordinator th... more

Expect the Denver Broncos' quarterback competition to continue into the third preseason game without a clear frontrunner. In his debut as a preseason starter Saturday night, Trevor Siemian marred an otherwise solid performance with a pick-six when... more

The Dallas Cowboys are out of the veteran quarterback market. After watching rookie Dak Prescott's dazzling preseason debut last week, owner Jerry Jones told the Cowboys broadcast team Friday evening that he's satisfied with his quarterback depth... more

The Chicago Bears spent the offseason prescribing a "hot hand " approach to their post-Matt Forte backfield. After two preseason games, Jeremy Langford has emerged as the clear-cut featured back. Until Jacquizz Rodgers entered in the second quart... more

Immediately after the new league year's free agency and draft period, Around The NFL handed out awards for the best performances by scouts and general managers during the roster-reconstruction phase of March and April. Three months later, offseason... more

Will J.J. Watt be recovered from back surgery in time for Week 1? That's the question hanging over the Houston Texans' preseason in an AFC South that suddenly seems hyper-competitive . Although Watt has yet to miss a game in his five-year career,... more

Jimmy Garoppolo started slowly and finished in strong fashion for the second straight week. Although a spry-looking LeGarrette Blount succeeded in moving the chains in the first quarter, Garoppolo couldn't establish a rhythm until he led a... more

Immediately after the new league year's free agency and draft period, Around The NFL handed out awards for the best performances by scouts and general managers during the roster-reconstruction phase of March and April. Three months later, offseason... more

Immediately after the new league year's free agency and draft period, Around The NFL handed out awards for the best performances by scouts and general managers during the roster-reconstruction phase of March and April. Three months later, offseason... more

Carson Palmer recently opined to NFL Media's Gil Brandt that Arizona Cardinals running back David Johnson would be a top-10 pick if the 2015 NFL Draft was held this summer. If the relentless stream of praise emanating from the desert is any... more

Immediately after the new league year's free agency and draft period, Around The NFL handed out awards for the best performances by scouts and general managers during the roster-reconstruction phase of March and April. Three months later, offseason... more

The Denver Broncos have lost a starter on the league's top-ranked defense. Veteran defensive end Vance Walker will likely miss the entire 2016 season after tearing his right ACL in Monday morning's practice, the team announced. Walker was expecte... more

Hours after coach Rex Ryan noted that Leonard Hankerson was "horrible" in the preseason opener, the Buffalo Bills have cut ties with the nomadic wide receiver. Hankerson was released on Monday, NFL Media's Rand Getlin reported, via a source famili... more

Former Seahawks safety Kenny Easley is receiving long overdue interest for the game's highest honor. The Pro Football Hall of Fame announced Monday that Easley has been selected as a senior finalist. As Seattle's first defensive superstar, Easley... more

Nobody's laughing at "exotic smashmouth " now. Mike Mularkey's vision for the 2016 season was realized in the Tennessee Titans' preseason opener when the "Thunder and Thunder " backfield of DeMarco Murray and Derrick Henry combined for 167 rushing... more

The Dallas Cowboys welcomed Jared Goff to the NFL on Saturday. Whereas rookie counterpart Dak Prescott dazzled while operating behind pro football's dominant offensive line and throwing to a pair of veteran wideouts, Goff struggled with a subpar... more

Dak Prescott did all he could in the Cowboys' preseason opener to silence the cries for a veteran insurance policy in Dallas. Displaying remarkable poise for a fourth-round rookie, Prescott tossed a pair of touchdowns on his first two NFL possessio... more

The Dallas Cowboys conducted a little business in advance of Saturday's preseason opener at Los Angeles. The team has agreed to terms with center Travis Frederick on a six-year contract extension that will make him the highest-paid center in the le... more

Following the 2016 NFL Draft, Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht touted No. 39 overall pick Noah Spence as "one of, if not the, best pure pass rusher " available. Spence teamed with former Giants defensive end Robert Ayers to spearhead a swarmi... more

Andre Johnson and Anquan Boldin recently found new NFL homes in Nashville and Detroit, respectively. Might Marques Colston be the next veteran free agent to be signed after a silent offseason? The New Orleans Saints' all-time leader in receptions (... more

The San Diego Chargers will have to play the 2016 season without Stevie Johnson. The veteran wide receiver has learned that surgery to repair a meniscus tear will prevent him from suiting up this year , the team confirmed Thursday. NFL Media Inside... more

Will it be Tom Brady or Jimmy Garoppolo under center when the New England Patriots take on the New Orleans Saints in Thursday's preseason opener? The early signs point toward Garoppolo playing with the first-team offense to prepare the backup... more

The Miami Dolphins are adding veteran depth for their beleaguered cornerback corps. The team signed former 49ers and Redskins corner Chris Culliver, the team announced Wednesday, and placed him on the physically unable to perform list. His contract... more

The New England Patriots took center stage on Tuesday, but did they win, lose or draw? Safety Nate Ebner was the big winner, helping USA Rugby to a 26-0 victory over Brazil as Patriots coaches and teammates met to cheer on their football teammate.... more

The Patriots' pass-rushing depth was dealt a blow on Tuesday. Defensive end Rob Ninkovich tore his triceps in Tuesday's scrimmage versus the Saints, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via a source informed of the injury. Although the muscl... more

Preseason games can be incredibly misleading, particularly in the evaluation of quarterback play. Leery of tipping their regular-season plans, defensive coordinators roll out vanilla schemes. The defensive pressure is less intense, the passing window... more

Amari Cooper slammed into the proverbial rookie wall last December, failing to top 20 yards in three of the last four games of the season. Battling a foot injury that nearly led the Oakland Raiders to shut him down for the season , Cooper still man... more

When the Cleveland Browns signed Robert Griffin III back in late March , the glaring concern was whether the surrounding talent was strong enough to enable reputed quarterback whisperer Hue Jackson to succeed with his hand-picked reclamation project... more

Late last season, Bruce Arians became the latest legend to have his NFL career memorialized with an episode of "A Football Life ." Future Hall of Fame wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald seems like a mortal lock to join him in receiving that honor in the... more

Franchise legend Larry Fitzgerald has already linked his future NFL plans to those of Carson Palmer. Now the team is putting it in writing. Arizona has rewarded the two aging stars with one-year contract extensions, the Cardinals announced Frida... more

Marcus Mariota's most impressive attribute through one NFL season has been the nonchalant recognition by teammates and coaches that the Tennessee Titans already boast a bona fide franchise quarterback and special talent as the face of the organizat... more

The Kansas City Chiefs have found veteran quarterback insurance for Alex Smith. The Chiefs have signed Nick Foles, the team announced Friday. The Cowboys and the Vikings had also extended offers to the former Los Angeles Rams quarterback, according... more

Former Browns and Titans castoff Terrance West isn't just pushing for a roster spot in Baltimore. He's building a strong case to surpass Justin Forsett and Javorius Allen as the Ravens' top running back. Through a week of training camp, the Baltimo... more

When Tharold Simon first surfaced on the national radar, it was in the scapegoat role as Tom Brady victimized the second-year Seahawks cornerback for a pair of touchdowns in Super Bowl XLIX. Simon went on to miss the bulk of the 2015 season with a... more

Since Tony Romo displaced Drew Bledsoe in October of 2006, the Dallas Cowboys are 78-49 (.614) with their starting quarterback in the lineup and a woebegone 7-20 (.259) when forced to turn to the backup. The Cowboys have only themselves to blame fo... more

Meeting Arizona legend and American patriot John McCain wasn't the best experience of Tyrann Mathieu's memorable Tuesday. The senior United States Senator and former presidential nominee was on hand at Cardinals practice to congratulate Mathieu on... more

Desperately in need of a legitimate pass rusher, the Falcons are bringing in one of the most productive sack artists of the 21st century. Veteran defensive end Dwight Freeney agreed to terms with Atlanta on Tuesday, the team announced. Freeney chos... more

In the span of three years, Tyrann Mathieu has gone from NFL draft pariah to franchise cornerstone in Arizona. The Cardinals have agreed to terms with the NFL's most versatile defensive back on a five-year, $62.5 million extension averaging more... more

This past offseason was different for the perennial NFC superpower Seahawks. Two years ago, they were flying high off of the first Lombardi Trophy in franchise history. Last year, they spent the offseason reeling from a devastating last-minute Supe... more

The record-breaking 2007 Patriots offense boasted the greatest deep threat and slot receiver of the 21st century, bolstered by a pair of veterans who went on to 10-year NFL careers in Donte' Stallworth and Jabar Gaffney. This year's receiving corps... more

The Jacksonville Jaguars' recent dalliance with free agent Greg Hardy doesn't mean the defense is lacking in pass rushers. Starting with 2015 first-round pick Dante Fowler, the Jags boast more talent up front than they've had in years. Although... more

When Nick Foles was granted his release from the Los Angeles Rams last week, speculation immediately turned to a reunion with Chip Kelly in San Francisco. Speaking on KNBR-AM's "Murph and Mac Show" Monday morning in San Francisco, Kelly made it cl... more

The Houston Texans have been a trendy Super Bowl sleeper this past offseason, in no small part because they boast two of the NFL's top 20 players in defensive end J.J. Watt and wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. As the team reported for training camp... more

Has Tre Mason played his last down for the Rams? The backup running back was placed on the Reserve/Did Not Report list Saturday after failing to show for the start of training camp. Mason did not participate in Los Angeles' offseason program. Coa... more

Wearing a Black Lives Matter t-shirt after Saturday's practice, Michael Bennett was critical of fellow NFL players who he believes have remained silent on social issues. The popular Seattle Seahawks defensive lineman singled out some of the league's... more

Now that Ryan Fitzpatrick and the Jets have found common ground , the Chargers' contract stalemate with first-round draft pick Joey Bosa looms as the tedious business story threatens to overshadow the on-field show in training camp. Standing firm o... more

Washington Redskins general manager Scot McCloughan feels rookie wide receiver Josh Doctson's pain. McCloughan arrived at training camp sporting a hand wrap courtesy of the Achilles' tendon soreness that kept Doctson out of organized team activiti... more

Seattle Seahawks defensive end Chris Clemons is hanging up his cleats after 13 seasons with five different NFL organizations. Clemons has informed the Seahawks that he intends to retire , NFL Media's Mike Garafolo reported, via a source informed of... more

Indianapolis Colts fans have yet another reason to believe breakout campaigns are on the horizon for talented young wide receivers Donte Moncrief and Phillip Dorsett. Early in training camp, per the Indianapolis Star, it's "unmistakably clear " tha... more

Change happens quickly in the NFL. Two offseasons ago, Nick Foles was basking in the glow of a Pro Bowl MVP award after posting the best single-season touchdown-to-interception ratio in NFL history. Just after Rams camp opened last summer, Foles... more

The NFL's top scoring offense is growing stronger. Wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin is "healthy and ready to go " for Carolina Panthers training camp after missing the entirety of the 2015 season with a torn ACL , per NFL Media's Tiffany Blackmon.... more

Colin Kaepernick is healthy just in time for his training-camp battle with Blaine Gabbert. For the first time since undergoing three surgeries, Kaepernick received medical clearance from his Colorado doctor to practice, sources with knowledge of t... more

Two days after signing general manager John Schneider to a new deal , the Seattle Seahawks are extending coach Pete Carroll's contract. The team has reached agreement with Carroll on a new pact that will run through the 2019 season, the team announ... more

While defensive tackle Kawann Short remains at a contract impasse with the Carolina Panthers, veteran safety Kurt Coleman has landed a new deal. The Panthers signed Coleman on a three-year extension, the team announced Wednesday. NFL Media Insider... more

Andre Johnson is back in the news for the first time since his release by the Indianapolis Colts in February. The 35-year-old wide receiver visited the Tennessee Titans on Tuesday, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via a source informed of... more

Franchise player Eric Berry won't be the only Kansas City Chiefs defensive star missing from the start of training camp . Coach Andy Reid told reporters Tuesday that he doesn't expect outside linebacker Justin Houston to participate in camp. Hou... more

There's reason to believe Andrew Luck was never fully healthy at any point in a disappointing 2015 season. He missed two early-season games with an injury to his throwing shoulder, played through torn cartilage in two of his ribs and went down with... more

The situation on the Dallas Cowboys' defensive front seven continues to grow ever bleaker. Defensive end Randy Gregory, already suspended for the first four games of the 2016 season, is enrolling into a treatment program as he faces the prospect o... more

The Baltimore Ravens are adding veteran depth for their overhauled offensive line following the recent release of Eugene Monroe. The team has agreed to terms with veteran tackle Jake Long, NFL Media's Mike Garafolo reported, via a source informed o... more

The NFL's offseason doldrums are in full effect, leaving Operation Odell Overload to drive the pre-training camp news cycle. Taking yet another potshot against nemesis Josh Norman earlier this week, Beckham singled out Cardinals All-Pro Patrick... more

Indianapolis Colts coach Chuck Pagano's seat was so persistently hot last season that he was moved to remark in December, "They can fire you but they can't eat you ." After a season of well-documented in-fighting with general manager Ryan Grigson,... more

Tyrod Taylor isn't the only Buffalo Bills star set to reach free agency in 2017. Standout cornerback Stephon Gilmore will play out the final year of his rookie contract this season, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Friday. Gilmore skipped... more

In Around The NFL's "Making the Leap" series , we spotlight emerging players to keep an eye on in 2016. Whether rising from no-namer to quality starter or jumping from standout to superstar, each of these individuals is poised to break through in the... more

The Houston Texans' most valuable asset is in danger of missing the entirety of training camp. Three-time Defensive Player of the Year J.J. Watt underwent surgery to repair his herniated disc on Wednesday, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, v... more

The verbal slap fight between Odell Beckham and Josh Norman continues unabated. During a Facebook Live chat with Business Insider reporter Scott Davis on Thursday, Norman was asked about Beckham's potshot in an upcoming issue of GQ about the Redski... more

Matt Spaeth's long run with the Pittsburgh Steelers is over. The team announced Thursday that Spaeth has been released with the designation of failed physical. "Matt never fully recovered from knee surgery that occurred this past offseason, and h... more

Thirteen years after initially joining the Arizona Cardinals as a first-round pick in 2004, Larry Fitzgerald has reached the year-to-year stage of his Hall of Fame career. When Fitzgerald acknowledged in May that he has "no idea " if this season wi... more

The Baltimore Ravens have as many question marks as any team in the NFL leading up to the 2016 season. Does the wide receiver corps have enough playmakers? Will the overhauled offensive line pay dividends? Are the pass rushers entering an irreversi... more

In Around The NFL's "Making the Leap" series , we spotlight emerging players to keep an eye on in 2016. Whether rising from no-namer to quality starter or vaulting from standout to superstar, each of these individuals is poised to break through in th... more

The Denver Broncos and Von Miller are working toward a new contract leading up to the July 15 deadline for franchise players. The two sides have exchanged multiple proposals within the past few days, NFL Media's Rand Getlin reported, via a source w... more

In Around The NFL's "Making the Leap" series, we spotlight emerging players to keep an eye on in 2016. Whether rising from no-namer to quality starter or vaulting from standout to superstar, each of these individuals is poised to break through in the... more

Cam Newton is the evolutionary quarterback. At a chiseled 6-foot-5 and 250 pounds with 4.60 wheels, he has the size and speed to match the All-Pro defensive ends giving chase. A half-decade into his career, he gets his offense into the right plays,... more

The Denver Broncos and Super Bowl MVP Von Miller are talking contract again, with just 10 days to go before the July 15 deadline for franchise players to sign long-term deals. Members of the team's brass, including general manager John Elway, reach... more

David Johnson set a franchise rookie record with 13 touchdowns last season. Not bad for the Cardinals' fallback option on the 2015 NFL Draft's second day. In the Amazon Prime video series All or Nothing: A Season with the Arizona Cardinals , whic... more

Last season, Kansas City Chiefs safety Eric Berry became just the fifth defensive player to win The Associated Press Comeback Player of the Year award -- one year after Rob Gronkowski broke ground as the first tight end to capture the award . Sinc... more

Might Josh Ferguson emerge as this year's version of Thomas Rawls, an undrafted rookie who goes on to outshine one of the most respected running backs of the past decade ? A dual purpose threat at Illinois, Ferguson was one of the premier receiving... more

Entering his sixth NFL season, Doug Baldwin has already earned his third professional contract. The Seahawks signed Baldwin to a four-year, $46 million contract extension Tuesday that will keep him under contract through the 2020 season, NFL Media... more

NFL senior vice president of labor policy and government affairs Adolpho Birch has informed the NFL Players Association that the players named in the December Al Jazeera America report alleging performance-enhancing drug use are set to be interviewe... more

As much as it might stagger the imagination of a 21st century football fan, quarterbacks weren't always atop the NFL's salary-structure food chain. Back in the late 1970s, Hall of Fame running backs O.J. Simpson and Walter Payton were the highest-pai... more

Last season was Tyrann Mathieu's coming out party as one of the NFL's most valuable defensive stars . For the first time in his four-year career, the versatile Arizona Cardinals defensive back's greatness has been recognized by his peers. Mathieu... more

If Charles Tillman is going to return from knee surgery to play a 14th NFL season, it will only happen in Charlotte. Tillman emphasized Saturday that the Carolina Panthers boast a "unity and respect" among the players and coaches that made it a... more

Once viewed as a key building block in Oakland, D.J. Hayden has been relegated to an afterthought in the Raiders' revamped secondary this offseason. Although the team recently declined the fifth-year option on Hayden's rookie contract, coach Jack D... more

Former No. 1 overall draft pick Jake Long is searching for a new NFL home after playing just 11 snaps in four games with the Atlanta Falcons last season. A four-time Pro Bowl selection with the Miami Dolphins early in his career, Long believes he h... more

Trent Richardson's NFL comeback has hit another stumbling block. The Ravens running back is expected to undergo arthroscopic knee surgery for a pre-existing injury, reports Jeff Zrebiec of the Baltimore Sun. This news comes three weeks after... more

The Carolina Panthers have rewarded Ron Rivera for his second NFL Coach of the Year award and a 17-2 record in 2015. Rivera signed a new three-year, $19.5 million extension, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via a source informed of Rivera'... more

The attention has been lavished upon the wrong wide receiver at New York Giants headquarters this offseason. While local and national writers alike document each and every Victor Cruz vow to recapture pre-injury form , second-round rookie Sterling... more

Pro Bowl cornerback Chris Harris raised a few eyebrows late last month when he suggested that Trevor Siemian has a legitimate chance to start the NFL kickoff game in September. As the Denver Broncos wrapped up their offseason program on Tuesday, c... more

After months of haggling , the Philadelphia Eagles and star defensive lineman Fletcher Cox have found common ground on a lucrative new contract. Cox has agreed to terms on a six-year extension that will keep him in the City of Brotherly Love throug... more

Three-time slam dunk champion Nate Robinson is bidding to join Minnesota Vikings legend Bud Grant as the second athlete in history to play in both the NBA and the NFL. After washing out with the New Orleans Pelicans and going unclaimed on waivers l... more

While the AFC South is on the rise , the Tennessee Titans are generally viewed as an afterthought, at least a year away from joining the frisky trio of the Indianapolis Colts, Houston Texans and Jacksonville Jaguars as legitimate challengers for the... more

The San Francisco 49ers quarterbacks took center stage this week, with Blaine Gabbert emerging as the "heavy favorite " to win the starting job despite Colin Kaepernick's long-awaited return to the practice field. Although Kaepernick refused to dis... more

The New Orleans Saints have received bad news in their bid to escape the cellar as the NFL's worst defense. Second-year pass rusher Hau'oli Kikaha has been diagnosed with a torn ACL , NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via source who has spok... more

Super Bowl MVP Von Miller has rejected a contract offer that would have made him the NFL's highest-paid defensive star. The Denver Broncos pass rusher turned down an offer that included a total value $114.5 million , reported NFL Media's James Palm... more

Looking for a great football read this summer? Our resident bibliophile Chris Wesseling gives us his 10 football books to put on your summer reading list.  1. A Fan's Notes, Frederick Exley, 1968 Four decades before it became customary... more

Blake Bortles is better than Andrew Luck. That is this year's wisdom from the hazy legion of NFL players casting ballots for NFL Network's The Top 100 Players Of 2016 countdown. Bortles made his Top 100 debut this week, appearing at No. 56. Luc... more

Dez Bryant is ready to return to the field after undergoing January surgery to repair a foot injury that hounded the Dallas Cowboys wide receiver throughout the 2016 season. Bryant is ready to progress to football drills  but needs final approval... more

DeMarcus Ware's back troubles are flaring up again. The Denver Broncos' star linebacker was held out of practice again on Tuesday after missing the first set of organized team activities last week. "Same thing. Back is bothering him," coach Gary... more

With two Super Bowl appearances, a Lombardi Trophy and a slew of NFL records in his four years with the Broncos, Peyton Manning now ranks with Reggie White and Drew Brees as the best free-agent signings in pro football history. Manning not only gre... more

Boasting perhaps the NFL's most improved roster , the Jacksonville Jaguars are a trendy Cinderella pick to graduate from perennial AFC South doormat to division champions in 2016. The defense could have as many as six new starters . The offense is... more

Former Denver Broncos and Miami Dolphins running back Knowshon Moreno isn't ready to hang up his cleats just yet. Still just 28 years old, Moreno hasn't played a down in the NFL since tearing his ACL with the Dolphins in October of 2014. The form... more

Don't hand the Dallas Cowboys' lead running back job to Ezekiel Elliott just yet. Incumbent starter Darren McFadden has been the first back through drills in offseason practices while Elliott adjusts to NFL game speed. Even if the Cowboys' prefe... more

Dennis Pitta has found a new level of confidence in his bid to resume his NFL career after fracturing and dislocating his hip twice in two seasons. At this time last year, Pitta was just hoping to get back on the field . Now that he's practicin... more

It has been seven years since Chris Johnson became the sixth player to join the exclusive 2,000-yard rushing club. The veteran running back still harbors grand illusions for his NFL twilight years. Reborn in Arizona, Johnson believes he can team wi... more

Sam Bradford has come under fire for skipping the start of the Eagles' offseason program and trying to facilitate a trade to Denver last month. After Seahawks defensive lineman Michael Bennett questioned whether teammates would want to play with... more

Former Packers and Seahawks coach Mike Holmgren announced his retirement in January of 2015 after learning that the 49ers did not reciprocate his interest in returning to the sidelines in San Francisco. Like many coaches who were retired by the l... more

Signed to be a dynamic outside complement to power back Mark Ingram, C.J. Spiller was a free-agent flop in his first season with New Orleans. Spiller was unable to recapture pre-injury form following mid-August arthroscopic knee surgery, averaging... more

Shaq Lawson isn't the only former Clemson defensive star to go under the knife this month. Tennessee Titans second-round draft pick Kevin Dodd underwent preventative foot surgery Thursday morning, the team announced. The 6-foot-5, 277-pound out... more

Martavis Bryant's unique combination of size, speed and freakish athleticism prompted Ben Roethlisberger to suggest in January that it was time for the Steelers wide receiver to "become the best in the world ." Two months later, Bryant's prodigiou... more

Ben Roethlisberger's newest offensive weapon was sidelined for the Steelers' first offseason practice on Tuesday. Speedy tight end Ladarius Green is recovering from surgery to repair an ankle injury that dogged him throughout the second half of the... more

Marcus Mariota was the NFL's least efficient passer on deep balls as a rookie. If the Tennessee Titans are going to produce more explosive plays this season, enigmatic second-year wide receiver Dorial Green-Beckham will have to be featured in the... more

Discord is afoot on the NFL's most ballyhooed offensive line. Cowboys guard Ronald Leary has requested a trade out of Dallas, NFL Media analyst Gil Brandt reported, via a source informed of the situation. A starter in 2013 and 2014, Leary lost h... more

Eddie Lacy's streamlined body was on open display Tuesday for the first time this offseason. After the Green Bay Packers' first public practice of the new league year, Lacy said, via ESPN.com, "I think I look good ." Although Lacy's listed weight... more

The Los Angeles Rams have been trying to solve their quarterback riddle since early in the 2015 offseason, when general manager Les Snead insisted that "deleting " Sam Bradford was not the answer. Less than a month later, Bradford was summarily shi... more

This story was originally published in May 2015. The NFL as we know it owes its existence to a series of innovations that took place decades ago in Cincinnati. So why aren't the Bengals widely revered for their role in the history of the game? The... more

This story was originally published in August 2015. British novelist Louis de Bernières once described the untamed force of love as a "temporary madness," erupting like a volcano before subsiding. What is it about an iconic professional sports... more

The San Diego Chargers made rubbish of four months' worth of mock drafts when they threw a curve ball at the rest of the NFL with the selection of Ohio State pass rusher Joey Bosa at No. 3 overall. As it turns out, the Bolts had been eyeing Bosa s... more

Veteran kicker Connor Barth lost his roster spot earlier this month, the fallout from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers decision to trade up for Florida State star Roberto Aguayo in the draft's second round. Aguayo was one of an astonishing seven Buccanee... more

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Doug Baldwin made news a couple of weeks ago when he pleaded with coach Pete Carroll to take recently retired Marshawn Lynch's uniform number out of the rotation going forward. General manager John Schneider has sin... more

The Dallas Cowboys have their latest backfield star under contract. The team announced Wednesday that No. 4 overall pick Ezekiel Elliott has signed his four-year rookie deal with an option for the fifth season. The first four years are fully guara... more

Former New England Patriots first-round draft pick Dominique Easley has found a new NFL home. The Los Angeles Rams have signed the third-year defensive tackle to a one-year contract , NFL Media's Rand Getlin reported, via a source familiar with the... more

The rise of analytics in professional football ushered in the devaluation of ball carriers a half-decade ago, relegating starting running backs to the fringes of team payrolls alongside specialists such as kickers and punters . Mega contracts at th... more

Zach Mettenberger is reuniting with Ken Whisenhunt. The San Diego Chargers claimed Mettenberger off waivers from the Tennessee Titans, the team announced on Tuesday. The Bolts had the No. 2 waiver priority behind the Browns. Now the offensive... more

Stressing that he re-signed with Philadelphia hoping to find stability, Sam Bradford acknowledged Tuesday that he skipped the Eagles' initial offseason practices due to frustration with the organization's trade for No. 2 overall pick Carson Wentz.... more

Now that Colin Kaepernick has lost his ill-fated leverage play with John Elway and the Broncos, he's forced to overlook his own trade request and return to the 49ers for a quarterback competition with Blaine Gabbert. Despite Kaepernick's rocky... more

With free agency and the draft in the rearview mirror, the NFL's roster reconstruction period is giving way to offseason workouts and minicamps. That doesn't mean there are no hidden gems left to be discovered, though. Chris Johnson entered the... more

Any conversation of the NFL's most underappreciated stars must include San Diego Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen. Entering the league in 2013, Allen became just the eighth rookie over the past two decades to record 1,000 receiving yards. Prior... more

Four-time All Pro Adrian Peterson is commonly viewed as the NFL's premier power back, but is he the most complete running back in the league? New York Jets wide receiver Brandon Marshall believes that honor belongs to new teammate Matt Forte. "Th... more

Was Sam Bradford's ill-fated pre-draft trade request merely a power play to join the Super Bowl champions?In a Wednesday appearance on The Rich Eisen Show , agent Tom Condon confirmed that the goal was to place Bradford in Denver once the Philadelph... more

The NFL is eager to spread American football to the far corners of the globe. On the heels of an expanded commitment to the United Kingdom and a return to Mexico City this year, the league has designs on Germany in 2017 and China in 2018 . Aga... more

The Cleveland Browns raised eyebrows after bypassing more highly regarded quarterback prospects to select USC's Cody Kessler in the third round of the draft. "You've got to trust me on this one," new coach Hue Jackson explained, responding to crit... more

Minutes into his first NFL minicamp practice in May 2015, Jacksonville Jaguars first-round pass rusher Dante Fowler's rookie season ended after he tore his ACL . Jacksonville's 2016 draft class avoided that scare this time around, as the Jaguars jo... more

Now that Josh Norman is no longer on the payroll, the Carolina Panthers have the salary-cap space to reward other young stars with long-term contracts. To that end, the Panthers have begun extension talks with defensive tackle Kawann Short, NFL Me... more

The Tennessee Titans are rewarding Delanie Walker for the first Pro Bowl season of his 10-year career. The team announced a two-year contract extension for Walker on Friday. The new deal is worth $14.7 million with $8.2 million in guarantees, NFL M... more

We have long needed a name to describe NFL's free agency and draft as a single entity, kicking off the new league year. "Offseason" doesn't fit the bill because this period doesn't encompass organized team activities and minicamps, which dominate the... more

Laremy Tunsil is a millionaire after all. The Miami Dolphins signed the 2016 NFL Draft's No. 13 overall pick to a four-year contract, the team announced on Friday. As is the case with all first-round picks, the deal comes with a team option in the... more

In social media circles, the day before Cinco de Mayo has become an unofficial holiday for Star Wars devotees: May the 4th Be With You . Former Oakland Raiders CEO Amy Trask shared a quick story to honor the occasion, tweeting a photo of Darth Vade... more

When it comes to NFL Network's "Top 100 Players of 2016," there's plenty of room for argument. So as the list is unveiled, NFL Media's Gregg Rosenthal, Chris Wesseling, Maurice Jones-Drew and Ike Taylor will be sharing their own takes on the top 100... more

Left tackle Cordy Glenn is the first franchise-tagged player to land a long-term contract this offseason. The Buffalo Bills have agreed to terms with Glenn on a five-year contract , the team announced Tuesday. The mega deal is worth up to $65 milli... more

The New Orleans Saints are rewarding one of the NFL's most promising young offensive linemen. Left tackle Terron Armstead signed a five-year extension that will keep him in New Orleans through 2021, the team announced on Tuesday. The new deal is... more

Veteran backup quarterback Bruce Gradkowski is returning to Pittsburgh. The Steelers re-signed Gradkowski to a one-year deal, the team announced Monday. Gradkowski is expected to compete with Landry Jones for the No. 2 job behind starter Ben... more

Veteran safety Antrel Rolle's stay in Chicago lasted just one season. The Bears released Rolle on Sunday, a source informed of the Bears decision told NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport. The team announced the move later on Sunday, along with the rele... more

When Hall of Famer Dick LeBeau was running the Pittsburgh Steelers' defense, it was exceedingly rare for a rookie to earn a starting job. That's no longer the case under Keith Butler, who altered the defense with more zone looks after taking over f... more

Tennessee Titans general manager Jon Robinson was describing Alabama running back Derrick Henry in late February when he said, "We want a strong, physical runner ." The surprise isn't that Henry landed in Nashville. It's that Henry was selected in... more

After the top two picks in Thursday night's draft, the Ravens knew the Chargers would select Joey Bosa and the Cowboys were listening to offers for the No. 4 overall pick. "San Diego is taking Bosa," assistant general manager Eric DeCosta announced... more

The first three rounds of the 2016 NFL Draft saw 98 names fly off the board, addressing a bevy of needs for the league's 32 teams. Not even half over, though, the draft still has 154 players to be selected. With that in mind, here are a handful of... more

In a standoff with free agent Ryan Fitzpatrick, Gang Green have added to their quarterback room. With the No. 51 pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, the New York Jets selected Penn State signal-caller Christian Hackenberg. This marks the fourth consecuti... more

The Cowboys shocked the NFL by adding another marquee name to their roster. With the No. 34 pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, Dallas selected Notre Dame linebacker Jaylon Smith. The stunner was not just that Smith was drafted so early in the second rou... more

The 2016 NFL Draft will be remembered as the year of the slide. Linebackers Myles Jack and Jaylon Smith , viewed as perhaps the top two talents available, plummeted due to knee injuries which could have long-lasting effects on their NFL careers.... more

San Francisco has drafted a first-round defensive lineman out of Oregon for the second straight season. With the No. 7 overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, the 49ers selected Ducks defensive tackle DeForest Buckner . The pick reunites Buckner with f... more

The San Diego Chargers threw Thursday night's first curve ball. With the No. 3 overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, the Bolts selected Ohio State defensive end Joey Bosa. San Diego's front office did a commendable job of smokescreening, as persist... more

Prior to the infamous 2013 class , conventional wisdom held that offensive tackles were the safest investments in the first round of NFL drafts. That's no longer the case. Left tackles, in particular, have fallen on hard times since inspiring Mic... more

The Miami Dolphins were unsuccessful in a series of attempts to sign or trade for established running backs last month. Now that draft week is upon us, the team's brain trust claims to be comfortable with a backfield led by 2015 fifth-round pick... more

The Denver Broncos will become just the second team in NFL history to win a Super Bowl and enter the following season without their top two quarterbacks. General manager John Elway also has lost two key starters from a defense he hailed as the best... more

Upon returning from the Pro Bowl in February, Jameis Winston set out to transform his body , armed with a new understanding of the commitment level of the game's top quarterbacks. Mission accomplished. Teammates took note of Winston's streamlined... more

After drawing the interest of nearly a dozen NFL teams last week, Josh Norman's final decision came down to the Washington Redskins and New Orleans Saints. Speaking at his introductory news conference Monday, Norman explained that he opted for the... more

The New England Patriots can't count on a successful appeal of Tom Brady's suspension, which was reinstated Monday  for the first four games of the 2016 season. Gabe Feldman, director of the Tulane Sports Law Program, told NFL Network on Monday tha... more

Now that he has departed Carolina for the nation's capital , Josh Norman will likely face a stiffer test than any NFL cornerback in September. The Washington Redskins draw three of the league's five best wide receivers in Antonio Brown, Dez Bryant... more

Did the Houston Texans do Brian Hoyer a favor by setting him free prior to the 2016 NFL Draft? Although general manager Rick Smith was unable to find a trade partner for Hoyer after signing Brock Osweiler in March, he believes he could have extra... more

The Titans recently swindled the Rams out of a franchise-altering harvest of draft picks one year after Tennessee and Tampa Bay rejected similar windfall offers from a desperate Chip Kelly in Philadelphia. All four organizations acted in respons... more

Kansas City will not recoup the two draft picks forfeited for violating the league's Anti-Tampering Policy in their March, 2015 recruitment of free agent Jeremy Maclin. The Chiefs' appeal of anti-tampering sanctions was denied by NFL, NFL Media In... more

Brian Hoyer is free to compete for a starting job in another NFL city. The Texans have released the veteran quarterback , NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via a source informed of the situation. Shortly after Houston handed the offensive... more

Brandon Browner is reuniting with the "Legion of Boom ." The free-agent cornerback will re-sign with the Seattle Seahawks on Monday on a one-year deal, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via a source involved in the deal. Browner earned a P... more

Charles Johnson was one of the best bargains in free agency, turning down more money to re-sign with the Carolina Panthers on a one-year, $3 million deal. Johnson recently told ESPN.com's David Newton that he nearly fired Drew Rosenhaus over the n... more

When the 2016 NFL schedule was released last week, Dan Hanzus listed the Week 7 matchup between the Houston Texans and Denver Broncos as the top "revenge " game of the season. It's a chance for Brock Osweiler to show Denver's coaching staff that th... more

After wrestling with the decision for months, Percy Harvin is walking away from football. The free-agent wide receiver has informed the Buffalo Bills of his decision to retire, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via a source informed of Harvi... more

The Los Angeles Rams will become the first NFL team in 25 years to hold the No. 1 draft pick after winning at least seven games in the previous season. Running in place on an annual hamster wheel of mediocrity, the Rams had no choice but to swing... more

Aaron Rodgers' 2015 season was a study in transitory transcendence inevitably regressing to the mean through little fault of his own. Coming off a brilliant 2014 MVP campaign and playing without reliable go-to target Jordy Nelson, Rodgers raised h... more

After missing all but one quarter of the 2014 season, Tyler Eifert rebounded with his first Pro Bowl nod in 2015. The Cincinnati Bengals tacitly acknowledged Eifert's growing value as one of NFL's most effective red-zone weapons , exercising the... more

Former Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Leon Hall is one of the most recognizable names languishing on the open market one month removed from the start of free agency. The nine-year veteran visited the Arizona Cardinals and Dallas Cowboys in mid-Marc... more

Shortly after challenging Eddie Lacy to streamline his body in January, Packers coach Mike McCarthy expressed "great confidence " that the rotund running back would report to offseason practices in better shape. Appearing on Tuesday's edition of N... more

Second-year cornerback Jalen Collins has encountered a setback in his push for playing time with the Atlanta Falcons. The No. 42 overall pick of the 2015 NFL Draft has been suspended without pay for the first four games of the 2016 regular season f... more

After failing to reach the postseason in eight years with the Rams, veteran defensive end Chris Long picked the right spot to spend the twilight years of his NFL career. Long turned down more money elsewhere to sign a $2.375 million contract with... more

One of the best stories of the 2015 NFL season will carry over to 2016. Veteran running back Tim Hightower is re-signing with the New Orleans Saints , reports Katherine Terrell of The Times-Picayune. Out of the league since 2011, Hightower not on... more

Since moving to Baltimore in 1996, the Ravens' guiding draft philosophy has been "stay true to the board." That philosophy has served Ozzie Newsome well, starting with his debut draft in which he bypassed trouble-prone running back Lawrence Phillip... more

Although Doug Baldwin tied for the NFL touchdown receptions lead in a breakout 2015 season, he's no longer the highest-paid wide receiver on the Seattle Seahawks. Teammate Jermaine Kearse signed a three-year, $13.5 million deal last month, edging o... more

Oakland general manager Reggie McKenzie is adding another impact player to a free-agent haul that already includes guard Kelechi Osemele, cornerback Sean Smith and linebacker Bruce Irvin. The Raiders have signed former Bengals safety Reggie Nelson,... more

New coach Chip Kelly recently touted the depth of the San Francisco 49ers' offensive personnel, starting with Carlos Hyde as "one of the really good young running backs ." Although Hyde's second NFL season ended prematurely due to a stress fracture... more

While the Bengals are turning to their offseason program to "exorcise " demons from their devastating playoff loss in January, the Steelers are still wondering if that hard-hitting game cost them a chance at Super Bowl 50. Playing without All Pro... more

Former Washington Redskins coach Mike Shanahan made news last week when he insisted that Robert Griffin III must return to a read-option offense to resurrect his career. New coach Hue Jackson punted Wednesday when asked if the Cleveland Browns fee... more

Powered by the talented young wide-receiver duo of Allen Robinson and Allen Hurns, the Jaguars' offense generated their second-most points of the 21st century last season. On a recent edition of the Move The Sticks Podcast , NFL Media analyst Dani... more

After a half-decade as the NFL's doormat division, the AFC South has finally climbed out of last place in Around The NFL's offseason power rankings . With intriguing young quarterbacks in place, three of the four organizations made our list of franch... more

The Seahawks won their contract staredown with Kam Chancellor last summer after the hard-hitting safety missed two months of practice and the first two games of the regular season. When the Seattle front office refused to adjust Chancellor's contr... more

Former Buccaneers and Bills wide receiver Mike Williams is attempting a comeback after falling out of the NFL last season. Williams is working out for the Bengals on Tuesday, per Jim Owczarski of the Cincinnati Enquirer. The former Syracuse star a... more

The San Francisco 49ers and Colin Kaepernick are exercising patience in their staredown with Denver Broncos general manager John Elway. Although Kaepernick has met twice with Elway in the past two weeks, the quarterback has informed the Broncos th... more

The Raiders aren't finished overhauling a defense that finished 22nd in both yards and points in 2015. Former Cincinnati Bengals safety Reggie Nelson will visit Oakland, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via a source informed of the free age... more

The AFC West placed third in Around The NFL's recent division power rankings . A strong case can be made that this is the NFL's toughest division, featuring the reigning Super Bowl champions and no cupcakes. Even with quarterback concerns and a def... more

Brandon Weeden has earned another shot in Houston after leading the Texans to a pair of key victories in the AFC South race last December. The Texans re-signed Weeden, the team announced on Friday. The new deal is for $4 million over two years, NFL... more

When veteran defensive end Charles Johnson accepted less money to stay in Carolina after visiting Tampa Bay, new Buccaneers head coach Dirk Koetter realized the Panthers have built an exemplary NFL program worth emulating. Koetter recently acknowl... more

After a half-decade as the NFL's doormat division, the AFC South has finally climbed out of last place in Around The NFL's offseason power rankings . With intriguing young quarterbacks in place, three of the four organizations made our list of franch... more

Robert Griffin III met his Washington Waterloo in January 2013, collapsing in a heap at the 5-yard line of FedEx Field 16 games into his career. Just 11 months later, coach Mike Shanahan pulled the plug on a bewildered Griffin  during... more

Percy Harvin will play football in 2016. The question is whether he will return to the Buffalo Bills, as general manager Doug Whaley recently intimated . Harvin is definitely planning to play this season, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported... more

When Mario Edwards was placed on season-ending injured reserve last December, the Oakland Raiders were concerned that the neck injury might place the promising rookie defensive end's career in jeopardy. The freak injury occurred when Edwards twist... more

The AFC West placed third in Around The NFL's recent division power rankings . A strong case can be made that this is the NFL's toughest division, featuring the reigning Super Bowl champions and no cupcakes. Even with quarterback concerns and a def... more

Placed on the trade block as Browns coach Hue Jackson attempts to resurrect Robert Griffin III's career , veteran quarterback Josh McCown is now on John Elway's radar in Denver. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported on Tuesday's edition of NFL T... more

Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht recently acknowledged that backup quarterback Mike Glennon is available for the right price leading up to next month's draft. Understanding that Glennon might opt to seek greener pastures when his r... more

At one point in Philadelphia, Chip Kelly had collected an astonishing eight former Oregon Ducks players on the Eagles' roster. If he plans to follow the same route in San Francisco, the plan isn't starting with Kansas City's all-purpose dynamo,... more

The 2015 Packers posted their lowest points per game, yards per game, yards per play and third-down percentage of the Aaron Rodgers era. Although Rodgers was saddled with the slowest collection of wide receivers and tight ends in football, per Nex... more

Since the end of the 2015 season, the Cleveland Browns have released their highest-paid wideout and watched their most effective wide receiver sign with the San Diego Chargers. With Dwayne Bowe and Travis Benjamin out of the picture, new coach Hue... more

Mike Wallace lasted just one season in Minnesota, turning in the least effective season of his seven-year career. Do the Vikings view their 2015 trade for Wallace as a disappointment now that the veteran wide receiver is plying his craft in Baltim... more

After re-signing Adrian Clayborn, reuniting with Sean Weatherspoon and luring Derrick Shelby away from Miami, the Atlanta Falcons aren't finished upgrading their defensive front seven. The team announced Friday that former Ravens linebacker Courtne... more

Josh Norman's memorable Week 15 matchup with Odell Beckham was so over-the-top intense that it led directly to a new automatic ejection rule for repeated unsportsmanlike conduct. "I hope I pulled back the mask on who this guy really is," Norman... more

Anquan Boldin has been languishing on the open market as one of the few remaining marquee free agents available. Although Boldin has stated that he would "love " to re-sign with the 49ers, general manager Trent Baalke revealed this week that he ha... more

When Arizona included guard Jonathan Cooper in their trade for pass rusher Chandler Jones last week, the seventh player selected in the 2013 NFL Draft seemed like an afterthought throw-in overshadowed by the Cardinals' second-round pick heading to N... more

Much like the Jaguars with Dante Fowler and the Bears with Kevin White, the Ravens essentially have an extra first-round draft pick this year after Breshad Perriman missed the entirety of his rookie season with a lingering knee injury. Although Per... more

When Chip Kelly traded for Sam Bradford in Philadelphia last offseason, he noted that the only two avenues leading to a franchise quarterback in today's NFL are the early rounds of the draft and rehabilitating a former high-end starter after injurie... more

After a decade of Heath Miller's all-around excellence, the Pittsburgh Steelers are counting on recent acquisition Ladarius Green to stretch the field with his dynamic speed at tight end. The presence of future Hall of Famer Antonio Gates might ha... more

As the Browns kick around the idea of signing Robert Griffin III as a reclamation projec t and drafting another quarterback with the No. 2 overall pick, Josh McCown is left dangling in the wind. New coach Hue Jackson is making no promises regardin... more

Waiting to see where Colin Kaepernick and Ryan Fitzpatrick land, the NFL's quarterback carousel has stopped spinning over the past week. Much like nature, the football news cycle abhors a vacuum, leading to speculation that a quarterback-needy team... more

When the Rams acquired former Buccaneers safety Mark Barron at the 2014 trade deadline, the No. 7 overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft fetched just fourth- and sixth-round draft picks in return. Six months later, the Rams thought so little of Barron'... more

Former New York Giants wide receiver Rueben Randle is staying in the NFC East. The Philadelphia Eagles announced Wednesday that they have agreed to terms with Randle on a one-year contract. The new deal is worth more than $3 million with $500,000... more

Hard Knocks is going Hollywood. The league announced Wednesday that the Los Angeles Rams will be the focus in the 11th season of HBO's acclaimed documentary series that delves into one NFL team's training camp. The first episode will air Aug. 9.... more

Colin Kaepernick might end up under center for the reigning champion Denver Broncos in the 2016 NFL Kickoff game, but momentum for a trade out of San Francisco has stalled over the past two weeks. General manager Trent Baalke stressed at Tuesday's... more

The Dallas Cowboys have done a remarkable job of eschewing marquee names in favor of sensible signings this month. After landing behemoth run-stuffer Cedric Thornton and productive power back Alfred Morris, the Cowboys seem set to bring on former S... more

Now that Coby Fleener is roaming in New Orleans, the Bears are gambling that the Saints might be willing to part with restricted free agent tight end Josh Hill. Hill signed an offer sheet with the Bears on Tuesday, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport... more

The two AFC East tilts between the Dolphins and Bills won't lack for storylines in 2016. All-Pro pass rusher Mario Williams landed in Miami after sounding off on Rex Ryan's defensive scheme throughout the 2015 season . Not one to let a slight go... more

Things are looking up in Chicago. Bears general manager Ryan Pace has succeeded in overhauling the defense to suit Vic Fangio's 3-4 scheme, building one of the league's most improved linebacker corps . Beyond the free-agent additions, the Bears... more

Authoring the finest quarterback season in Buffalo since the end of Hall of Famer Jim Kelly's career two decades ago won't necessarily earn Tyrod Taylor a new contract as the face of the Bills franchise. General manager Doug Whaley said Monday ther... more

The Packers aren't going to grant James Jones' wish to finish his career in Green Bay . The team's brass has informed the free-agent wide receiver that there is no interest in bringing him back for the 2016 season. "They're going to go with the y... more

Once the NFL's most dangerous player with the ball in his hands, Percy Harvin has been an afterthought in free agency. Two months after director of player personnel Jim Monos conceded the Buffalo Bills were still in the dark on Harvin's plans , gen... more

While the San Francisco 49ers, Denver Broncos and Colin Kaepernick's representatives spend the bulk of March engaged in a prolonged Mexican standoff, another quarterback might be entering the picture. Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Jason Lich... more

The Cowboys know they have to improve their pass rush with Greg Hardy on the open market and second-year defensive end Randy Gregory suspended to open the 2016 season . Is Dallas desperate enough to consider re-signing Hardy after missing out on Ch... more

When coach Bruce Arians was asked at the NFL Scouting Combine last month what he learned from the Cardinals' playoff loss to the Panthers, he quipped, "Play at home ." The Patriots learned the same lesson after Tom Brady was hit 23 times in Denver.... more

The New England Patriots' recent addition of veteran tailback Donald Brown failed to send shockwaves through the NFL for obvious reasons. The former Colts first-round draft pick averaged just 3.14 yards per carry in two seasons as an afterthought... more

When news of Martavis Bryant's one-year suspension broke last weekend, casual fans wondered why the Steelers weren't interested in a reunion with free agent wide out Mike Wallace as a replacement. The answer is 2015 third-round draft pick Sammie... more

When the Tennessee Titans began their general manager and head coach searches in early January, there was an assumption in league circles that the heirs of Bud Adams would soon be putting the franchise up for sale. Despite ownership structure issue... more

The New England Patriots finally found help for their much beleaguered backfield. Former Indianapolis Colts and San Diego Chargers running back Donald Brown signed with the Pats, the team announced on Friday. Brown's new contract is for one year, N... more

One of the Cleveland Browns' most accomplished defensive stars is in danger of missing the entire offseason. Veteran cornerback Joe Haden underwent surgery on his left ankle on Wednesday. Haden is scheduled to resume football activities during... more

The New York Jets are still holding out hope that free agent Ryan Fitzpatrick will be their starting quarterback in 2016. "He's a very good fit for us," general manager Mike Maccagnan told reporters on a Friday conference call. "Our goal eventually... more

The Cowboys aren't finished looking for backfield help after re-signing scatback Lance Dunbar on Thursday. Former Washington Redskins running back Alfred Morris is visiting Dallas on Monday, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported. It's the first... more

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have found a veteran linebacker to complement Pro Bowler Lavonte David and promising second-year tackler Kwon Alexander. Former Ravens star Daryl Smith has agreed to terms with the Bucs, the team announced Friday morning. T... more

East North South West After more than a week of free-agency action, it's time to take stock of what teams have accomplished thus far. We'll assign highly scientific and inarguable grades for each NFL team's free-agent haul thus far,... more

East North South West After more than a week of free-agency action, it's time to take stock of what teams have accomplished thus far. We'll assign highly scientific and inarguable grades for each NFL team's free-agent haul thus far,... more

East North South West After more than a week of free-agency action, it's time to take stock of what teams have accomplished thus far. We'll assign highly scientific and inarguable grades for each NFL team's free-agent haul thus far,... more

East North South West After more than a week of free-agency action, it's time to take stock of what teams have accomplished thus far. We'll assign highly scientific and inarguable grades for each NFL team's free-agent haul thus far,... more

Lance Dunbar is returning to Dallas. The Cowboys are re-signing the running back to a one-year, $1.75 million contract, reported ESPN.com's Adam Caplan. The Cowboys later confirmed the deal . Dunbar previously visited the 49ers, Seahawks and Bea... more

Seattle is turning to a familiar name to provide backfield depth in the wake of Marshawn Lynch's retirement . The Seahawks have re-signed running back Christine Michael, the team announced Thursday. The front office neglected to tender Michael a... more

Good luck stopping Tom Brady in the red zone after Tuesday's trade for skyscraper Martellus Bennett to pair with unstoppable tight end Rob Gronkowski. Over the past two seasons, Bennett and Gronkowski rank second and fourth, respectively, in... more

The Saints are starting to bring in reinforcements for their 32nd-ranked defense. New Orleans has agreed to terms with former Rams linebacker James Laurinaitis on a new contract, NFL Media's Rand Getlin reported Wednesday, via a source familiar wit... more

The Cleveland Browns have cut ties with their most accomplished defensive star. The Browns released veteran linebacker Karlos Dansby on Wednesday, the team announced. Browns executive vice president of football operations Sashi Brown released thi... more

The first wave of free agency lasted just 36 hours this year, with the biggest names finding new homes during the shortened "legal tampering" period. Five days after the start of the league year, just one of Around The NFL's top 20 free agents rema... more

An already stout Carolina defense is growing even stronger. Former Atlanta Falcons defense tackle Paul Soliai is signing a two-year, $7 million contract with the Panthers, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via a source involved in the deal.... more

When Charles Woodson rejoined the hapless Raiders in 2013, his goal was to help Oakland get out of the football darkness, bridging the gap to the next successful era. He announced his retirement in December, confident that general manager Reggie... more

Even without All-Pro tailback Le'Veon Bell, Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was leading a historically prolific offensive attack for stretches of last season. With Bell returning to full health, Martavis Bryant joining Antonio Brown as the... more

The San Diego Chargers' premier defensive star of the past decade has found a new NFL home. Veteran safety Eric Weddle has agreed to terms with the Baltimore Ravens on a four-year deal, the team announced Monday. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport repo... more

Restricted free agent C.J. Anderson's four-year, $18 million offer sheet with the Miami Dolphins wasn't the highest deal on the table for the in-limbo Denver Broncos tailback. The Bears offered $19 million over four years, Mike Klis of KUSA in Den... more

The Chargers have found cornerback insurance with Patrick Robinson on the open market. Former Packers corner Casey Hayward has agreed to terms with San Diego , NFL Media's Rand Getlin reports, via a source informed of the deal. The contract is for... more

The Ravens are seeking veteran help for their shallow wide receiver corps. Former Minnesota Vikings speedster Mike Wallace is visiting Baltimore on Monday, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via a source informed of the wideout's plans. Alt... more

Jermaine Gresham is staying in Arizona. The veteran tight end is re-signing with the Cardinals on a one-year deal, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via a source informed of Gresham's plans. The 21st overall pick in the 2010 draft also vi... more

Kansas City brought in a veteran wide receiver with the potential to start opposite Jeremy Maclin. Former Oakland Raiders wideout Rod Streater has agreed to a one-year contract worth up to $4.8 million, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via... more

The renovation of Chicago's defense continues. The Bears announced Saturday that they have agreed to terms with former Indianapolis Colts linebacker Jerrell Freeman on a three-year contract. The new agreement calls for $12 million with $6 million... more

DeMarcus Ware is staying in Denver. The nine-time Pro Bowl pass rusher has agreed to terms on a restructured contract with the Broncos, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Saturday, via a source involved in the situation. Ware received $2 mil... more

Indianapolis is going younger at backup quarterback. The Colts signed former Green Bay Packers clipboard-holder Scott Tolzien, the team announced on Friday. With 40-year-old Matt Hasselbeck now retired and "The Coney Island Thrasher " Josh Freema... more

Sean Weatherspoon is returning to Atlanta. After one season with the Arizona Cardinals, the veteran linebacker agreed to terms on a one-year contract, the team announced Friday. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Thursday, it is a one-year dea... more

Never underestimate John Elway's ability to pull the rabbit out of a hat. Thirty years after he orchestrated "The Drive " to extinguish the most realistic Super Bowl hopes in Cleveland history, Elway is locking horns with the Browns' front office i... more

After 24 hours on the open market, Jermaine Kearse is returning to Seattle. The wide receiver has agreed to terms  with the Seahawks on a three-year, $13.5 million contract, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Thursday, via a source informed of... more

Appearing at his introductory news conference for the Houston Texans on Thursday, Brock Osweiler refuted reports that his late-season benching drove his decision to leave the Denver Broncos. "Absolutely not. That's football," Osweiler replied when... more

After watching Brock Osweiler, Malik Jackson and Danny Trevathan leave for greener pastures, the Super Bowl champions are in danger of losing their starting running back. Multiple teams are in a bidding war for restricted free agent C.J. Anderson,... more

Now that Brock Osweiler has defected to Houston, Colin Kaepernick sits atop the Denver Broncos' wish list at quarterback. If general manager John Elway reaches out to former 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh for an opinion on the quarterback who led San... more

The Tennessee Titans continue to add much-needed help for Marcus Mariota on offense. The Titans are signing former Miami Dolphins wide receiver Rishard Matthews to a three-year contract, NFL Media's Ian Rapoport and Rand Getlin report, via a team... more

The 2015 Denver Broncos proved to be one of the rare NFL teams with a roster strong enough to carry a pair of subpar quarterbacks to the Super Bowl title. Now that Peyton Manning has retired and Brock Osweiler has absconded to Houston with $72 mil... more

The Kansas Chiefs will lose two draft picks for their actions leading up to the start of the league year in 2015. Citing improper contact with wide receiver Jeremy Maclin prior to the start of free agency last March, NFL Executive Vice President of... more

The New York Jets have found their backfield replacement for Chris Ivory. The team will sign former Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports, via a source informed of the deal. Forte was also reported to be dr... more

Appearing at the Florida Forum Speakers Series in Jacksonville on Wednesday, Peyton Manning touched on his unique 2015 season but stopped short of revealing his plans for 2016. Manning said it was "absolutely excruciating " to watch Denver Broncos... more

The Washington Redskins won't have to worry about the possibility that Kirk Cousins will miss offseason work as a protest against the franchise tag. Cousins accepted the organization's franchise tender on Wednesday, per agent Mike McCartney. The... more

Free agency is nearly upon us, with the market officially opening at 4 p.m. ET on Wednesday, March 9. After that? The 2016 NFL Draft, taking place in Chicago over the last three days of April. So, yes, 'tis the season for roster reconstruction! Wi... more

Working together for just over a month, Tennessee Titans new general manager Jon Robinson and coach Mike Mularkey have found common ground on the need for backfield help. "We want a strong, physical runner ," Robinson said at the NFL Scouting Combi... more

When Joe Flacco briefly became the highest-paid player in NFL history after leading Baltimore to a Super Bowl XLVII victory, the Ravens understood the deal was back-loaded against the salary cap to force a renegotiation in 2016. Flacco's cap number... more

Cincinnati coach Marvin Lewis suggested last summer that he might opt to walk off into the sunset if the Bengals were fortunate enough to win Super Bowl 50. Speaking at the NFL Scouting Combine on Friday, Lewis made it clear that he has no thought... more

The NFL's oldest head coach has no plans to walk away any time soon. The Seahawks are negotiating a contract extension with Pete Carroll, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via a team source. Carroll, 64, is entering the final season of a... more

INDIANAPOLIS -- The Chicago Bears' recent decision to cut ties with Matt Forte wasn't due simply to the likelihood that the veteran running back is entering the twilight years of a successful football career. Speaking at the NFL Scouting Combine o... more

INDIANAPOLIS -- The Seattle Seahawks' starting running back job is Thomas Rawls' job to lose. Although general manager John Schneider told Around The NFL at the NFL Scouting Combine on Wednesday that the organization intends to bring in as much... more

INDIANAPOLIS -- The Indianapolis Colts have been running in place ever since general manager Ryan Grigson took home executive of the year honors for the 2012 season. Too often steamrolled by more physical teams, Grigson's roster now lacks impact t... more

INDIANAPOLIS -- Representing the Cincinnati Bengals at the NFL Scouting Combine, director of player personnel Duke Tobin stressed the importance of suspended linebacker Vontaze Burfict to Cincinnati's 2016 fortunes. Although Burfict and cornerback... more

INDIANAPOLIS -- What's a catch? Ever since Calvin Johnson became Patient Zero of the "process of the catch " rule, the qualifications for one of the sport's most basic acts has grown increasingly convoluted. It has reached the point that players... more

INDIANAPOLIS -- Arizona Cardinals general manager Steve Keim expressed wide-eyed wonder over David Johnson earlier this month, noting that it's "scary " to ponder how good the rookie sensation can be as he develops in his second and third seasons.... more

INDIANAPOLIS -- New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick recently offered high praise for Jon Robinson, describing the Tennessee Titans new general manager as "an asset to any football program ." A longtime scout under Belichick, Robinson returned... more

Who holds decision-making power in the Cincinnati Bengals' front office? That has been one of pro football's biggest mysteries since owner Mike Brown acknowledged that "the ball has essentially been handed off " to a committee of power brokers comp... more

When coaches and executives take the podium at the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine later this week, one of the most pressing questions will be submitted to 49ers general manager Trent Baalke: What is Colin Kaepernick's future in San Francisco? One... more

The Philadelphia Eagles continue to lock up their core players with long-term contract extensions. The Eagles signed safety Malcolm Jenkins to a new five-year deal that includes a four-year extension. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported the... more

Don't count running back Fred Jackson among the NFL players retiring this offseason. Having turned 35 years old over the weekend, Jackson wants to continue his career in 2016, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday, via a person close to t... more

If not for the their 31st-ranked defense, we would be hearing a lot more about the Jaguars as an up-and-coming playoff hopeful in a wide open AFC South. Blake Bortles and Allen Robinson led a breakout offense that scored 376 points, the second-most... more

Stephen Tulloch's five-year run as the Detroit Lions' middle linebacker is coming to a close. The Lions have informed Tulloch that he will be released after the start of the league year in March, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via a sour... more

In response to Brian Hoyer's Wild Card Weekend meltdown , owner Bob McNair has made it clear that the Texans will be in the market for a quarterback upgrade this offseason. While veteran options such as Robert Griffin III and Sam Bradford have bee... more

Every year at this time, Around The NFL releases a preliminary ranking of the top free agents as well as a detailed overview of franchise-tag candidates . The problem with those lists, however, is that a disproportionate number of the premier free ag... more

Last year at this time, Philip Rivers was surprisingly mulling early retirement while nursing painful back and rib injuries. This time around, the veteran quarterback is "fired up" about the Chargers' future despite a 4-12 record in 2015. In a... more

Reminiscent of the task facing the Super Bowl XLVII champion Baltimore Ravens four years ago, the Denver Broncos will spend the offseason making tough decisions on their Super Bowl 50 championship roster. If Super Bowl MVP Von Miller draws the fran... more

Carolina Panthers star Luke Kuechly was playing through a partially torn labrum when he made NFL history in becoming the first player to return interceptions for touchdowns in consecutive playoff games. The All-Pro middle linebacker is scheduled to... more

The Detroit Lions are cutting ties with a hometown hero. The team released veteran running back Joique Bell on Tuesday. Bell starred at Wayne State University in Detroit prior to a four-year run with the Lions. It's been a pleasure Detroit. Home... more

Theo Riddick's emergence as perhaps the NFL's most effective receiving back was an overlooked story in a lost 2015 Detroit Lions season. The former Notre Dame star set franchise records for receptions (80) and receiving yards (697) by a running bac... more

Offensive Rookie of the Year voters slighted Cardinals versatile tailback David Johnson, who garnered just one vote compared to 27 for the award's winner , Todd Gurley. Devonta Freeman was the only running back with more touchdowns than Johnson's 1... more

At 37 years old, Bill Belichick became the NFL's youngest head coach when originally hired by the Browns in 1991. At 37 years old, Adam Gase is now the NFL's youngest head coach after being hired by the Dolphins in January. Age isn't the only... more

The NFL's offseason has arrived, hopefully sparing us from overwrought takes on Cam Newton's news conference behavior and Beyonce's halftime song selection. Tuesday marks the first day that teams can place the franchise or transition tag on prospe... more

Had a potential Browns-Broncos trade not fallen through at the 11th hour early last November, perennial All-Pro left tackle Joe Thomas would be celebrating his first Super Bowl victory. After speaking with Sashi Brown, the Browns' new executive vi... more

Super Bowl MVP Von Miller is ready to cash in as a free agent, with designs on becoming the NFL's highest-paid defensive player. Asked on Thursday's edition of NFL Total Access if Miller deserves to surpass J.J. Watt and Ndamukong Suh atop the NF... more

Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict's suspension appeal has been denied. Appeals officer Derrick Brooks has upheld Burfict's three-game suspension for repeated violations of safety-related playing rules, NFL Media's Albert Breer reporte... more

The New England Patriots controlled home-field advantage in the AFC all season until their Week 17 loss to the Miami Dolphins dropped them behind the Denver Broncos. That shift in seeding played a key role in Patriots' season-ending defeat, as the... more

The Buffalo Bills reportedly plan to release Mario Williams due to a "clear, fundamental disconnect " between the pass rusher and Rex Ryan's coaching staff. Williams recently told to ESPN's Josina Anderson that he's ready for a fresh start after R... more

When the Bengals entered the postseason in early January, coach Marvin Lewis suggested Andy Dalton had a slim chance to play through a broken throwing thumb. As it turns out, Dalton could not have returned in January. Dalton indicated this week... more

Steve Smith has been one of the most explosive young wideouts in NFL history, one of the most productive old receivers in NFL history and perhaps the greatest small wide receiver in NFL history. As the 2016 Pro Bowl captains, Jerry Rice and Michael... more

Reggie Bush isn't about to let his 2015 release from the Detroit Lions and season-ending knee injury with the San Francisco 49ers put a stop to his professional football career. "I'm not retiring ," Bush told reporters Sunday, per the Detroit Free... more

NFL fans expecting high-profile retirement news Sunday evening were thrown for a loop when Marshawn Lynch upstaged Peyton Manning. In typical taciturn Lynch style, he simply tweeted a peace emoji with a picture of his cleats suspended from a teleph... more

SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- The Broncos' Super Bowl 50 championship squad was modeled after John Elway's Super Bowl XXXIII outfit, with a dominant defense taking pressure off of a declining Hall of Fame quarterback. It's no surprise, then, that Elway l... more

SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- If Peyton Manning is going to walk off into the sunset following the Denver Broncos' Super Bowl 50 victory, the decision will take a backseat to celebration. Manning was noncommittal regarding his future plans in a post-game... more

SAN FRANCISCO -- For the second time in three years, Ron Rivera of the Carolina Panthers has captured the NFL's highest coaching honor. Rivera was announced as the NFL Coach of the Year during Saturday's NFL Honors award show. Coach of the Year... more

SAN FRANCISCO -- Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt beat out St. Louis Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald and Carolina Panthers stars Luke Kuechly and Josh Norman to take home the 2015 Defensive Player of the Year award at Saturday's NFL Honors... more

Matt Forte's Chicago future is up in the air. As of early December, the Bears had not offered the impending free agent a new contract, which means the 30-year-old running back is likely heading to the open market. Appearing on Friday's edition of... more

Speculation on Peyton Manning's football future has dominated an otherwise tepid lead-up to Super Bowl 50. Although Peyton has acknowledged to close friends that he expects Sunday's game to be his last , Eli Manning warned NFL Media's Andrew Sicil... more

Identical twin brothers Devin and Jason McCourty are used to drawing double takes when they appear in public together. Although Devin acknowledged he can't trick Jason's wife, he did reveal Thursday on NFL Network's Super Bowl Live that the brothe... more

The best Kansas City Chiefs team in a decade faces an uncertain future with so many defensive stars in need of new contracts. Safety Eric Berry, cornerback Sean Smith, linebacker Derrick Johnson, edge rusher Tamba Hali and defensive tackle Jaye How... more

DeMarco Murray's Philadelphia future is up in the air after NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport broke the news Thursday that the Eagles and the veteran running back appear to be headed for stare-down this offseason. The team's new regime is not confide... more

Peyton Manning has transitioned from MVP to an intermittent liability under center in his last two seasons with the Denver Broncos. After throwing a touchdown pass in 56 consecutive starts stretching from November 2010 through November 2014, Mannin... more

Peyton Manning won't give serious thought to his football future until Super Bowl 50 is over. Once he does contemplate retirement, though, Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay wants the future Hall of Famer to walk away with the Colts. "I want him... more

Cincinnati Bengals wideout Marvin Jones is eager to test free agency, realizing he could be the belle of the ball in a soft wide-receiver market. "I love Cincinnati," Jones told NFL Media's Scott Hanson on Wednesday. "...But at the same time, I am... more

Wade Phillips' top-ranked Denver defense is understandably drawing rave reviews after swarming Tom Brady in the AFC Championship Game. To hear Packers wide receiver James Jones tell it, though, the Broncos defense won't even be the best on the fie... more

Brandon Marshall is standing by his quarterback amid conflicting reports that Colin Kaepernick wants to leave the San Francisco 49ers for the New York Jets. "I don't want Kaepernick ," Marshall told ESPN's First Take on Wednesday morning. "I thi... more

Peyton Manning is stiff-arming retirement speculation in the lead-up to Super Bowl 50, concentrating instead on enjoying the moment in his 18th NFL season. Once it does come time for Manning to make that decision, however, the Denver Broncos will... more

The Panthers' nondescript receiving corps has been exceeding expectations ever since analysts derided the group as a liability when Kelvin Benjamin tore his ACL in training camp. "Those guys have been playing lights-out since Day 1," Cam Newton sai... more

Andrew Luck is fully recovered from his late-season lacerated kidney and in line for a lucrative new contract extension. That was the word from Colts owner Jim Irsay, who spoke with Indy reporters Tuesday. "He's good to go. He's healed ," Irsay s... more

Now that the Cleveland Browns have resolved to cut ties with Johnny Manziel once the new league year starts in March, the next question is whether football's tabloid sensation has an NFL future. As an early-round draft pick with a penchant for... more

Critics might scoff at "The Patriot Way ," but Broncos cornerback Aqib Talib insists Bill Belichick's New England program was the key to his development as a Pro Bowl-caliber player. "One thing I have to say about that establishment over there: The... more

SAN JOSE, Calif. -- Cam Newton's unwavering confidence was on full display during Super Bowl 50 Opening Night festivities. Asked about his team's chances in Sunday's game, Newton replied, "if they're at their best and we're at our best, we're going... more

SAN JOSE, Calif. -- Cam Newton is the unanimous MVP selection among NFL Media analysts. The Carolina Panthers' dual-threat quarterback is also Peyton Manning's choice for MVP honors. "He's just had this incredible year. There's no doubt in my m... more

SAN JOSE, Calif. -- Peyton Manning may have acknowledged to close friends that he expects Sunday's game to be his last , but he wasn't not about to let the media run with that theme at Super Bowl 50 Opening Night. Manning told NFL Media's Marshall... more

Jameis Winston reportedly will have stability at wide receiver in his second season. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers plan to keep Vincent Jackson at a $9.77 million base salary and a $12.2 million cap hit for 2016, per Scott Reynolds of Pewter Report.... more

Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins capped a spectacular 2015 season with a star turn in the Pro Bowl, hauling in a 7-yard touchdown following a 61-yard bomb. NFL Media analyst and Hall of Fame wideout Michael Irvin, Hopkins' coach on Team... more

The Chargers are staying in San Diego for the 2016 season in hopes of negotiating a stadium deal with the city. Chairman Dean Spanos released a statement on Friday: Today I decided our team will stay in San Diego for the 2016 season and I hope f... more

What a time to be alive for Travis Kelce. One day after E! network confirmed the tight end will star in his own reality show, Catching Kelce , the Kansas City Chiefs announced a lucrative new contract for the first-time Pro Bowl selection. Kelce'... more

Eagles Pro Bowl defensive lineman Fletcher Cox made it clear to Around The NFL's Conor Orr on Thursday that he wants to be in Philadelphia "for the long haul ." To that end, the team is working toward a long-term deal that will circumvent Cox's fre... more

When team president Art Rooney II speaks, the Steelers' front office listens. After Rooney emphasized a return to Pittsburgh's smashmouth roots a half-decade ago, pass-happy coordinator Bruce Arians was sent packing. When Rooney expressed concern... more

Tennessee Titans fans have been searching high and low for hope after watching their team manage just five wins over the past 32 games. New offensive coordinator Terry Robiskie has identified second-year quarterback Marcus Mariota as the natural so... more

Bruce Arians is excited about his loaded Arizona Cardinals roster heading into the offseason. There is one area, however, that he knows must be improved. After watching the Cardinals pressure Cam Newton on a season-low 20.7 percent of dropbacks,... more

Amari Cooper shook off a late-season foot injury to become the first rookie in Oakland Raiders history to reach 1,000 receiving yards. As it turns out, the injury nearly cost the 2015 first-round pick that opportunity. Appearing Wednesday on Siri... more

Kirk Cousins authored one of the greatest contract drives in recent memory, evolving from a turnover prone third-string quarterback to a candidate for the Washington Redskins' 2016 franchise tag. Speaking publicly for the first time since training... more

At its highest level, football requires perseverance. Peyton Manning will start for the Broncos in Super Bowl 50 after being summarily benched for the first time in his Hall of Fame career. Cam Newton will start for the Panthers in Super Bowl 50,... more

Baseball boasts the 1927 New York Yankees and mid-70s Big Red Machine. Hockey offers the 1976-77 Montreal Canadiens. Basketball's best teams still take aim at the 72-win Chicago Bulls. For football fans of a certain age, the 1985 Chicago Bears are... more

Philip Rivers placed his San Diego future in question early last offseason when he initially rejected the notion of signing a contract extension with the Chargers. As it turns out, Rivers actually considered walking away from football altogether p... more

Former Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Jim O'Neil has landed on his feet in San Francisco. The 49ers have hired O'Neil to run Chip Kelly's defense, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via a source involved with the situation. O'Neil,... more

Wade Phillips' relentless Denver defense is coming off of one of the most impressive performances in AFC Championship Game history, hitting Tom Brady more times (20) than any quarterback in the past decade. "I got a defense full of stars ," Phillip... more

They can't blame Ryan Lindley this time. With a trip to Super Bowl 50 hanging in the balance, the Cardinals' biggest stars imploded in their postseason rematch with the Panthers, ending in a 49-15 loss . "Great players play great in big games,"... more

The Broncos are going to Super Bowl 50. Bradley Roby intercepted Tom Brady's two-point conversion attempt, thwarting the New England Patriots' bid for overtime in Denver's 20-18 AFC Championship Game victory. Here's what you need to know: 1. The... more

Ben Roethlisberger faced a crossroads in his career two years ago, as the Steelers asked him to transition from physical marvel to cerebral quarterback . To Roethlisberger's credit, he embraced the change, flourishing in Todd Haley's offense which... more

After weighing retirement in each of the past two offseasons , Marshawn Lynch might finally be ready to walk away from football. Appearing Friday on Seattle's KIRO-AM, general manager John Schneider said he is under the impression that Lynch is le... more

When the 49ers hired Chip Kelly as their new head coach last week, NFL Media analyst Mike Mayock hailed the move as a godsend for Colin Kaepernick's slumping San Francisco career . Mayock isn't alone in that belief. In his latest NFL Notebook ,... more

As unlikely as it sounds, the Chiefs' 2015 season didn't get on track until Jamaal Charles went down with a torn ACL in early October. With the emergence of Spencer Ware and Charcandrick West in Kansas City's backfield, it's natural to wonder if th... more

The NFL's first full-time female assistant coach credits Rex Ryan for her new role with the Buffalo Bills. "I was surprised, yes," Smith told WGR in Buffalo, "but also, no, in the sense that Rex is open-minded. Rex and I have worked together for a... more

Pro Bowl cornerback Chris Harris' status is one of the major question marks leading up to Sunday's AFC Championship Game. Denver Broncos general manager John Elway told ESPN that Harris will be a game-time decision with a severe bone bruise in his... more

NFC Championship Game Preview AFC Championship Game Preview The backstory The shame is that this matchup isn't taking place under the bright lights of the Super Bowl. The combined 28 regular-season wins of the Cardinals (13) and Panth... more

Arizona Cardinals coach Bruce Arians has no concerns about his team's sluggish start in the past two games. In fact, Arians stressed during Wednesday's news conference that the tight back-and-forth battle with Green Bay in the Divisional Round of t... more

Was last week's Divisional Round loss at Carolina the last ride of Marshawn Lynch's Seattle Seahawks career? Lynch will be 30 years old next season, coming off a trying year in which he missed more games than he played and managed just one 100-ya... more

The Eagles are turning to a former Philadelphia quarterback as their next head coach. Kansas City offensive coordinator Doug Pederson has become Philly's next coach, the team announced Monday. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported on Friday, vi... more

If this season is Peyton Manning's last rodeo , it's only fitting that he will have to conquer Tom Brady to reach the fourth Super Bowl of his illustrious 18-year career. The two greatest quarterbacks of the 21st century will square off for the 17t... more

The Carolina Panthers jumped out to a 31-0 lead by the middle of the second quarter and withstood a spirited second-half comeback attempt by the Seattle Seahawks to advance to the NFC Championship Game with a 31-24 victory . Here's what we learned... more

Drew Brees' looming $30 million cap hit led many in league circles to believe the New Orleans Saints would entertain trade offers this offseason. Brees promised late last month that both he and coach Sean Payton would be back for the 2016 season.... more

James Jones' hooded sweatshirt first became a social media sensation back in mid-November during the Packers' 30-13 victory over the Vikings. Jones initially donned the hoodie to battle the harsh Minnesota elements. Now that the Packers are trav... more

Can Chip Kelly save Colin Kaepernick's 49ers career? As Kelly plotted his next NFL stop, per NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, he was hatching plans to sign or trade for Kaepenerick as his next quarterback project. Although Kaepernick's early Nove... more

Chiefs-Patriots Packers-Cardinals Seahawks-Panthers Steelers-Broncos The backstory "There aren't too many times you have an opportunity to go back and have a re-do," Packers coach Mike McCarthy said this week. "We're looking for... more

The Cleveland Browns are staying in Ohio for their next head coach. The Browns have hired Cincinnati Bengals offensive coordinator Hue Jackson as the successor to Mike Pettine, the team announced Wednesay. NFL Media columnist Michael Silver first... more

The NFL is offering the San Diego Chargers and Oakland Raiders $100 million to assist in stadium solutions in their home markets. That was the primary takeaway from a Tuesday night press conference following the news of the Rams' move to Los Angele... more

The NFL owners voted Tuesday to endorse the Rams' relocation to the Los Angeles area in 2016. The Chargers have a one-year option to join the Rams at the Inglewood stadium site. As the two organizations reach a crossroads in their respective histo... more

The brain drain has begun in Cincinnati. The Miami Dolphins have hired Bengals defensive backs coach Vance Joseph as their new defensive coordinator under head coach Adam Gase, the team announced Tuesday. Joseph might have taken the same job in D... more

Throughout the offseason and into last summer's training camps, Peyton Manning's form was the NFL's biggest mystery . Entering the Divisional Round of the playoffs this week, the 39-year-old quarterback remains an enigma. As a matter of fact, the... more

The Cincinnati Bengals will open next season without controversial linebacker Vontaze Burfict. The NFL announced Monday that Burfict has been suspended without pay for the first three games of the 2016 regular season for repeated violations of... more

One of the biggest mysteries of the NFL's postseason is whether we see the unbeatable New England Patriots of September and October or the M*A*S*H unit they were forced to trot out in December. The signs from Monday's practice suggest the Kansas Ci... more

The Ryan brothers are back together. The Buffalo Bills announced Sunday night that former New Orleans Saints defensive coordinator Rob Ryan will rejoin head coach and twin brother Rex Ryan as the assistant head coach/defense. "I'm excited to have... more

For the second January in a row, the Seattle Seahawks relied upon serendipity and Russell Wilson's improvisational skills to advance in a playoff game they had no business winning. If Blair Walsh's missed field goal mirrored Brandon Bostick's muff... more

Ben Roethlisberger came out of the locker room to lead an incredible game-winning field-goal drive, lifting the Pittsburgh Steelers to an 18-16 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in the Wild Card round of the playoffs. Here's what you need to know:... more

Rob Chudzinski is staying in Indianapolis. The Colts announced Thursday that Chudzinski will remain the offensive coordinator going forward after assuming the reigns from a fired Pep Hamilton in early November. Whereas reports surfaced that Hamil... more

The NFL has been celebrating the pathway to Super Bowl 50 all season long. Now that the playoff field is set, we know that there are a dozen possible rematches of previous Super Bowls leading up to the golden anniversary of the league's crown jewe... more

Coach Gary Kubiak's decision to start Peyton Manning in the Divisional Round of the playoffs means the legendary quarterback's final NFL moment will not be a rousing standing ovation from the Denver faithful after leading the Broncos to a comeback... more

Chuck Pagano has chosen an old friend to fix the Indianapolis Colts' defense following Tuesday's dismissal of Greg Manusky. Ravens coach John Harbaugh announced Thursday that linebackers coach Ted Monachino is leaving Baltimore to accept the Colts... more

Chiefs-Texans Steelers-Bengals Packers-Redskins Seahawks-Vikings The backstory No one is giving the Vikings a legitimate chance in a rematch of a Week 13 blowout that was both Seattle's largest margin of victory this season and... more

Lovie Smith is out after two years in Florida. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers co-chairman Joel Glazer released a statement Wednesday night, announcing Smith's firing: "After careful consideration, we informed Lovie that we have decided to make a change... more

Chiefs-Texans Steelers-Bengals Packers-Redskins Seahawks-Vikings The backstory Around The NFL's Dan Hanzus has labeled this Saturday afternoon matchup the "No Respect Bowl." The Chiefs and Texans are a combined 16-2 since Week 8... more

Against season-long odds, coach Chuck Pagano is staying with the Indianapolis Colts on a new deal. The team announced Monday night that Pagano has agreed to a four-year contract extension after a trying season featuring well-documented in-fighting... more

The beast is ready to be unleashed on the Minnesota Vikings Coach Pete Carroll announced Monday, via the Seattle Seahawks' official Twitter feed, that running back Marshawn Lynch is "ready to go " after missing nearly two months due to a core muscl... more

Bruce Arians hoodwinked us. Arizona's charismatic coach insisted last week that the Cardinals would play to win in the regular-season finale, regardless of the strong likelihood that they were locked into the NFC's No. 2 seed. Outplayed in ever... more

For the first time in his five-year career with Cincinnati, Andy Dalton will likely be watching, and not playing, on Wild Card Weekend. Coach Marvin Lewis confirmed Monday, via Geoff Hobson of the team's official website, that the Bengals are prepa... more

The (10-6) Seattle Seahawks authored one of their most impressive performances of the year in a postseason tune-up, blowing out the first-place (13-3) Arizona Cardinals in a 36-6 victory. Here's what you need to know: 1. This was a statement game... more

The Cincinnati Bengals tied a franchise record with their 12th win, closing out the regular season with a 24-16 victory over the 5-11 Baltimore Ravens. The Bengals will enter the postseason as the AFC's No. 3 seed. Here's what you need to know: 1... more

Of this year's Pro Bowl snubs , New Orleans Saints left tackle Terron Armstead is perhaps the most anonymous to casual football fans. On a cap-strapped roster with few obvious building blocks, however, Armstead has emerged as one of coach Sean Payt... more

The Tennessee Titans' job will be one of the most attractive for head-coaching candidates over the next few weeks. The reason? The face of the franchise is a young signal-caller with an especially bright future in a league where quarterbacks carry... more

Giants coach Tom Coughlin conceded Wednesday that this week's firing of Chip Kelly came close to surprising him in a business where firings are rarely truly shocking. Patriots coach Bill Belichick went a step further on Thursday, labeling Eagles o... more

Every week in this space, Chris Wesseling rolls out the power rankings for one specific NFL position, attribute or award. As season wraps up this week, it's time to revisit the MVP picture. Below are Around The NFL's top 10 candidates for 2015 NFL... more

Peyton Manning is expected to be in uniform for the Denver Broncos' regular-season finale, barring a setback. Coach Gary Kubiak announced Wednesday that Manning will back up Brock Osweiler at quarterback on Sunday against the Chargers if everythin... more

Hall of Fame defensive end Doug Atkins passed away in Knoxville, Tennessee, at the age of 85 on Wednesday, the Hall of Fame confirmed. An eight-time Pro Bowl selection and member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame All-1960s Team, Atkins teamed with... more

Steve Smith will go out on his own terms. The Baltimore Ravens wide receiver announced Wednesday that he will return for a 16th NFL season in 2016. Wit the blessing of My Family, Friends & Fans!! 2016 Let's give'em Hell ð??? #SmithWPMOYChallenge... more

Chip Kelly spent last offseason overhauling the Philadelphia Eagles roster with headline-generating trades and signings meant to build the organization in his image. Now that Kelly and first lieutenant Ed Marynowitz have been fired , it's natural t... more

Is there a fissure forming in the Carolina Panthers' pass defense? Prior to Week 15, Defensive Player of the Year candidate Josh Norman had allowed the lowest yards per coverage snap of any NFL cornerback, holding the murderer's row of DeAndre... more

AJ McCarron was beat up physically and mentally after the Bengals' overtime loss to the Broncos on Monday night. Cincinnati's backup quarterback accepted the full blame for mishandling an overtime snap that was recovered by Denver pass rusher DeMa... more

DeMarcus Ware recovered a mishandled snap from AJ McCarron in overtime, sending the Denver Broncos (11-4) to the postseason with a 20-17 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals (11-4) on Monday night. Here's what you need to know: 1. The Broncos' vic... more

The Cincinnati Bengals might have to go with AJ McCarron in the wild-card playoffs. Appearing on Monday's edition of NFL Total Access , NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported that Andy Dalton is still a few weeks away from returning to game action... more

After clinching a first-round bye in Sunday's blowout victory over the Green Bay Packers, Bruce Arians is facing a dilemma new to the Arizona Cardinals organization. Prior to Week 17 of the 2015 season, the franchise had never been in a position to... more

Leonard Hankerson is quickly becoming the NFL's nomadic wide receiver. The Bills claimed Hankerson off waivers from the Patriots, the team announced, two weeks after New England snared him on waivers from the Atlanta Falcons. The Pats had design... more

A swarming St. Louis defensive line hit Russell Wilson 13 times in the (7-9) Rams' 23-17 upset victory over the (9-6) Seattle Seahawks in Week 16. Here's what you need to know: 1. For the first time in 71 regular-season and postseason games, Wils... more

The Atlanta Falcons spoiled the Carolina Panthers' quest for a perfect season, squeezing out a 20-13 victory in Week 16. Here's what you need to know: 1. The Panthers (14-1) extended their streak of 100-yard rushing performances to 28 games, but... more

The Raiders (7-8) came from behind to emerge with a 23-20 overtime victory versus the San Diego Chargers (4-11) in a Christmas Eve game that could be the last ever played in Oakland's O.co Coliseum. Here's what you need to know: 1. Raiders lineba... more

A hamstring injury might accomplish what NFL defenses have been powerless to achieve over the past month: stop scorching hot Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Doug Baldwin. Coach Pete Carroll indicated Thursday that Baldwin likely will be a game-time... more

The stakes couldn't be higher for Saturday's showdown between the Washington Redskins and Philadelphia Eagles, airing exclusively on NFL Network. The Redskins will clinch the NFC East with the victory. A loss, however, would leave both teams at 7... more

The Arizona Cardinals have reason to believe the recovery from Tyrann Mathieu's second ACL injury will proceed on a faster track than his initial reconstructive knee surgery two years ago. Mathieu's 2013 injury was more severe and included an... more

Panthers cornerback Josh Norman continues to follow the script set by Richard Sherman back in 2012, from the All-Pro-caliber breakout season on the field to the relentless attention-mongering off the field. On the heels of Norman's 60-minute slap f... more

Every week in this space, Chris Wesseling will roll out the power rankings for one specific NFL position, attribute or award. As we turn our attention to the stretch run, it's time to start thinking about NFL Honors. This week, we examine the top... more

To the eternal gratitude of pure football fans, Next Gen Stats lack the capability to provide hot takes on the Week 15 antics that led to Odell Beckham's one-game suspension. What Next Gen Stats can tell us, though, is that the notion of Josh Norm... more

The 2016 Pro Bowl was announced Tuesday night. We've examined the offensive selections and the notable players who didn't make the squad. Here is our breakdown of the defensive picks: Defensive end: Ezekial Ansah, Michael Bennett, Chandler Jones... more

Matthew Stafford posted a single-game career high in passer rating for the second time in the past month, leading the Detroit Lions to a 35-27 victory over the New Orleans Saints on Monday night. Here's what you need to know: 1. Stafford also bro... more

Charles Woodson will leave the NFL playing as well as he did upon entering the league 18 years ago. The Oakland Raiders safety announced Monday evening that he will retire after the 2015 season. Take a look at the best photos from Charles Woodson... more

Bruce Arians isn't supposed to play favorites, freely admitting that Tyrann Mathieu is his prize player and happiest Cardinals draft choice . But Arians isn't the type to blindly follow rules, and Mathieu engenders universal respect and admiration... more

The uncertainty under center will continue for at least one more week in Indianapolis. Colts coach Chuck Pagano announced Monday that Andrew Luck has been ruled out for Week 16 at Miami. The Colts want Luck to be cleared by doctors for game actio... more

Ben Roethlisberger shredded the NFL's best defense, passing for 380 yards and three touchdowns to lead the (9-5) Pittsburgh Steelers to a 34-27 victory over the (10-4) Denver Broncos in Week 15. Here's what you need to know: 1. Roethlisberger... more

Julio Jones set a new franchise single-season receiving record, leading the Atlanta Falcons to a 23-17 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 15. Here's what you need to know: 1. The Falcons kept their faint wild-card hopes alive while th... more

Tom Brady tossed a pair of touchdown passes as the New England Patriots (12-2) cruised to a 33-16 victory over the Tennessee Titans (3-11) in Week 15. With Denver's loss to the Steelers Sunday, the Patriots have clinched a first-round playoff bye. T... more

Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota is battling his second knee injury of the 2015 season. Mariota was forced from Sunday's game in the second quarter with a right knee injury. He did not return to the game, giving way to Zach Mettenberger... more

Kenbrell Thompkins burned rookie Byron Jones for a 43-yard catch, setting up the game-winning field goal to propel the New York Jets (9-5) to a 19-16 win over the Dallas Cowboys (4-10) on Saturday night. Here's what you need to know: 1. Following... more

The Dallas Cowboys introduced Matt Cassel to the bench after the quarterback introduced the football world to the intentional grounding interception. Cassel was pulled in favor of Kellen Moore in the second quarter of Saturday night's 19-16 loss  t... more

In the wake of Thomas Rawls' season-ending injury, the Seattle Seahawks' backfield plans are so unsettled that Pete Carroll acknowledges nobody knows how it will play out until Sunday's game starts. "You'll find out at game time how we're going to... more

Khalil Mack's five-sack performance in Week 14 has coach Jack Del Rio thinking big about the future of the Oakland defense. "As we go forward, we're going to build a dominant defense here ," Del Rio stated matter-of-factly Wednesday, via ESPN.com.... more

Peyton Manning has experienced a setback in his return from a plantar fascia tear . Denver Broncos coach Gary Kubiak gave Manning the day off Friday, according to NFL Media's James Palmer. The venerable quarterback confessed that his foot was sore... more

Arizona Cardinals defensive back Tyrann Mathieu is "pound-for-pound the best player in the league ," NFL Media analyst Brian Baldinger raved earlier this month. Around The NFL has compared the Defensive Player of the Year candidate to a combinatio... more

New York Jets coach Todd Bowles acknowledged this week that his team has to sweep the final three games of the season to reach the postseason. The competition is stiff for the AFC's two wild-card spots. Riding a seven-game winning streak, the Kans... more

The much-hyped Offensive Rookie of the Year battle between Rams running back Todd Gurley and Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston was a bit of a letdown Thursday night. Gurley's team won, but he continues to get hit too often behind the line of... more

Tavon Austin scored a pair of touchdowns to lead the St. Louis Rams (6-8) to a 31-23 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-8) on Thursday night. Here's what you need to know: 1. Austin became the first player since Hall of Famer Gale Sayers in... more

As far back as the Denver Broncos' third preseason game in late August, we saw evidence that something was physically wrong with Peyton Manning. Although news of Manning's plantar fascia tear didn't surface until his mid-November benching , his f... more

J.J. Watt is the greatest defensive player of his generation , on pace to challenge Lawrence Taylor, Reggie White and a handful of luminaries as best there ever was . Now he has company in the form of surging second-year St. Louis Rams defensive ta... more

Every week in this space, Chris Wesseling will roll out the power rankings for one specific NFL position, attribute or award. As we turn our attention to the stretch run, it's time to start thinking about NFL Honors. So far, we have covered the top... more

Brock Osweiler will be running the Denver Broncos' offense for at least one more week. The Broncos announced Tuesday that Osweiler will start Sunday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. In addition, the team said Peyton Manning is expected to... more

In reeling off 17 consecutive regular-season victories, the Carolina Panthers have proven they can win in many different ways. Although the philosophy and personnel have dictated a defense and ball-control approach, it was Ted Ginn's ability to tak... more

Odell Beckham exploded for 166 yards and a pair of touchdowns on seven receptions, leading the New York Giants (6-7) to a 31-24 victory over the Dolphins (5-8) on Monday night. Miami's loss means the New England Patriots have clinched the AFC East t... more

The most exciting player in football has struck again. Odell Beckham added to his extraordinary early-career highlight reel with a spectacular, toe-dragging touchdown in the New York Giants' 31-24 Monday night  win against the Miami Dolphins. Bec... more

It's easy to imagine the fist pumps and high fives in the Tennessee Titans' personnel department after last week's 42-39 victory . The war-room plan bore plenty of fruit on offense, with key contributions from four of the top six picks in their 201... more

Veteran pass rusher Dwight Freeney's third-down strip sack on Teddy Bridgewater prevented the Minnesota Vikings (8-5) from attempting a game-tying field goal as the playoff-bound Arizona Cardinals (11-2) escaped with a 23-20 victory Thursday night.... more

Michael Crabtree won't be testing the free-agent market again next offseason. Crabtree signed a four-year, $35 million contract extension Wednesday, a source informed of the deal told NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport. The deal includes nearly $19 mi... more

The 10-2 Arizona Cardinals have been lifted to first place in the NFC West by a top-ranked offense and a league-best secondary . While Defensive Player of the Year candidate Tyrann Mathieu and revitalized All-Pro cover corner Patrick Peterson prov... more

The Pittsburgh Steelers are poised to play the spoiler role in the race for the AFC's No. 1 seed entering the postseason. Directing a historically prolific offensive attack, Ben Roethlisberger has a chance to knock off the AFC North-leading Bengal... more

Judging by Wednesday's practice, the New England Patriots will likely be without Rob Gronkowski again in Week 14 . The All-Pro tight end was among those missing from the start of practice , joining wide receiver Julian Edelman and safety Patrick Ch... more

Every week in this space, Chris Wesseling will roll out the power rankings for one specific NFL position, attribute or award. As we turn our attention to the stretch run, it's time to start thinking about NFL Honors. So far, we have covered the top... more

The New England Patriots are coming off back-to-back losses for the first time since September of 2012. Although special teams gaffes have been the primary culprit in the two-game skid, it's no secret that the offensive efficiency has waned in the... more

DeSean Jackson had returned just two punts in two years with Washington when the Redskins coaches opted for his playmaking potential late in the fourth quarter of Monday night's 19-16 loss to the Cowboys. Trying to make something out of nothing,... more

Dan Bailey drilled a 54-yard field goal to give the Dallas Cowboys a 19-16 victory over the Washington Redskins on Monday night. Here's what you need to know: 1. A 46-yard Lucky Whitehead kickoff return enabled the game-winning field goal, bailin... more

Bolstering his MVP case, Cam Newton tossed five touchdowns passes for the second time in three weeks, leading the Carolina Panthers to a 41-38 victory over the New Orleans Saints (4-8) in a Week 13 shootout. Here's what you need to know: 1. Newto... more

No Chris Johnson, no problem. Rookie starter David Johnson and backup Kerwynn Williams rushed for a combined 158 yards to lead the Arizona Cardinals (10-2) to a lopsided 27-3 victory over the St. Louis Rams (4-8) in Week 13. Here's what you need to... more

Tyrod Taylor beat busted coverage for a game-winning 40-yard touchdown toss to Charles Clay, leading the Buffalo Bills (6-6) to a 30-21 victory over the Houston Texans (6-6) in Week 13. Here's what you need to know: 1. Taylor had a phenomenal... more

Impending free agent Matt Forte recently acknowledged that the 2015 season could be his final one with the Chicago Bears. Appearing on Friday's edition of NFL Total Access , Forte emphasized that his priority is to stay in Chicago, but he's prepar... more

When the Indianapolis Colts first acquired veteran quarterback Matt Hasselbeck in March of 2013, owner Jim Irsay gloried in the signing as one "that makes your pillow softer at night ." Although coach Chuck Pagano has made it clear that Andrew Luck... more

The Green Bay Packers' untimed touchdown overshadowed the biggest mystery in Thursday night's dramatic victory over the Detroit Lions. Why was Eddie Lacy an afterthought coming off the first back-to-back 100-yard games of his NFL career? Lacy d... more

St. Louis' Week 4 upset victory over Arizona was Todd Gurley's coming out party , as the uber-talented rookie stole the show with the first of four consecutive 100-yard performances. As the two NFC West rivals prepare to do battle again in Week 13... more

Rob Gronkowski will miss this week's New England Patriots game versus the Philadelphia Eagles, as expected . The All Pro tight end has been ruled out for Week 13 with a knee injury. As NFL Media's Albert Breer points out, it's not a good sign for... more

The Green Bay Packers' playoff odds mushroomed from 66.5 percent to 92.08 percent, per the analytics site numberFire , when Aaron Rodgers connected with Richard Rodgers on the game-winning "Hail Mary" pass Thursday night. With the understanding th... more

Is it still considered blasphemy in Seattle to point out that the Seahawks' offense stands to benefit with playmaking rookie Thomas Rawls replacing Marshawn Lynch for the next month? Lynch has never rushed for 160 yards or combined for 200 yards fr... more

Brandon Marshall hasn't had a change of heart since he insisted in July that the New York Jets will be his last NFL team. In a conversation with the New York Daily News this week, the 31-year-old wide receiver reiterated his intention to walk away... more

Ten months after former Packers tight end Brandon Bostick became a household name for deviating from his assignment on an infamous onside kick, current Green Bay tight end Richard Rodgers is poised to become a household name for deviating from his o... more

Aaron Rodgers capitalized on a facemask penalty as time expired, dialing up an untimed 61-yard "Hail Mary" pass to Richard Rodgers for the game-winning touchdown as the Green Bay Packers (8-4) edged the Detroit Lions (4-8), 27-23 , Thursday night. He... more

Interim general manager Sheldon White suggested at his introductory news conference last month that the Lions plan to build around Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson going forward, but refused to directly address their futures in Detroit. Althoug... more

Every week in this space, Chris Wesseling will roll out the power rankings for one specific NFL position, attribute or award. As we turn our attention to the stretch run, it's time to start thinking about NFL Honors. We kicked off the regular-seaso... more

Chris Johnson's Comeback Player of the Year campaign has hit a snag. Johnson was diagnosed with a fractured tibia after leaving Sunday's victory in the third quarter, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, per a source informed of the injury, o... more

Football is the ultimate team game. Tom Brady isn't the MVP frontrunner without Rob Gronkowski, Julian Edelman, Dion Lewis, a passable offensive line and an astute coaching staff. Along the same lines, Todd Gurley doesn't go from prohibitive... more

Safety Will Hill returned a blocked field goal for a touchdown to give the Baltimore Ravens a 33-27 walk-off victory over the Cleveland Browns on Monday night. Here's what you need to know: 1. Backup quarterbacks Austin Davis and Matt Schaub were... more

Cleveland Browns quarterback Josh McCown is battling yet another injury after taking a hard hit in Monday night's shocking, 33-27 loss  to the Baltimore Ravens. McCown jogged to the locker room with a collarbone injury in the middle of the fourth... more

Chris Harper has been banished from the New England Patriots' roster following Sunday night's costly muffed punt. Harper was released on Monday , the team announced. The Patriots were cruising toward their 11th consecutive victory with a 21-7... more

The Indianapolis Colts are tied for first place in the AFC South, due in no small part to backup quarterback Matt Hasselbeck's stellar play in four victories without a loss. Thanks to the episodic nature of the NFL season, building in intensity tow... more

The New England Patriots' recent string of bad injury luck just took a turn for the unthinkable. All-Pro tight end Rob Gronkowski was carted off the field with a right knee injury late in the fourth quarter of Sunday's loss to the Denver Broncos.... more

Russell Wilson out-dueled Ben Roethlisberger in Week 12, tossing a career-high five touchdown passes to lead the Seattke Seahawks (6-5) to a 39-30 shootout victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers (6-5). Here's what you need to know: 1. This... more

Raiders wide receiver Seth Roberts enjoyed a career game, hauling in six passes for 113 yards and a pair of touchdowns to lead the Oakland Raiders (5-6) to a 24-21 victory over the Tennessee Titans (2-9) on Sunday. Here's what you need to know: 1... more

The Minnesota Vikings (8-3) reclaimed first place in the NFC North, sending the reeling Atlanta Falcons (6-5) to a 20-10 defeat in Week 12. Here's what you need to know: 1. Whereas the Packers have lost their identity with Aaron Rodgers strugglin... more

The Carolina Panthers forced three first-half Tony Romo interceptions and knocked the Dallas Cowboys' quarterback out of the game in a dominant 33-14 victory on Thanksgiving Day. Here's what you need to know: 1. Carolina's defense dominated Dalla... more

Tony Romo re-injured his left shoulder on the last play of the third quarter in Thursday's blowout loss to the Carolina Panthers. Romo's shoulder took the brunt of the pressure on a Thomas Davis sack. The Dallas Cowboys quarterback immediately gra... more

The Lions' most valuable offensive and defensive players will be on the field for Thursday's game versus the Philadelphia Eagles. Wide receiver Calvin Johnson (ankle) and cornerback Darius Slay (neck) are both active for Detroit's annual Thanksgiv... more

Every week in this space, Chris Wesseling will roll out the power rankings for one specific NFL position, attribute or award. With the byes wrapping up last week, all 32 teams have played exactly 10 games. As we turn our attention to the six-game... more

Denver fans won't see Peyton Manning in a Broncos uniform before mid-December. The team announced Tuesday that Manning is expected to miss at least the next two weeks after Monday's consultation with foot and ankle specialist Dr. Robert Anderson.... more

Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler will have his two most valuable weapons back in the lineup as he attempts to improve his 1-12 lifetime record versus the Green Bay Packers. Starting running back Matt Forte and No. 1 receiver Alshon Jeffery are... more

Bruce Arians loves greyhounds. When he was in Cleveland early last decade, Arians featured dual-threat receiver-returner Dennis Northcutt, who once bested an ostrich in a footrace. At his next stop in Pittsburgh, Arians developed Mike Wallace a... more

What price victory when the football gods smite Tom Brady's weapons by the week? Although still undefeated after Monday night's melee with Rex Ryan's swarming Bills defense, the Patriots are gradually ceding their aura of invincibility to football'... more

Add another grievance to the NFL's year of officiating controversies. In the New England Patriots' 20-13 win over the Buffalo Bills on Monday Night Football , there was a premature whistle debacle the likes of which we have not seen. One officia... more

Houston Texans quarterback T.J. Yates will head back to the bench after leading his team to a pair of victories over the Cincinnati Bengals and New York Jets. Coach Bill O'Brien confirmed Monday that Brian Hoyer has passed his final concussion test... more

Starting in place of an injured Marshawn Lynch, rookie Thomas Rawls gashed the San Francisco 49ers' defense for 255 yards from scrimmage and a pair of touchdowns to lead the Seattle Seahawks to a 29-13 victory in Week 11. Here's what you need to kno... more

For the third time in three Ravens' victories this season, Justin Tucker drilled the game-winning field goal, this time pushing Baltimore past the St. Louis Rams in a 16-13 rock fight. Here's what you need to know: 1. The Ravens' last-second vict... more

Cam Newton tossed a career-high five touchdowns to lead the undefeated Carolina Panthers (10-0) to a convincing 44-16 victory over the Washington Redskins (4-6) in Week 11. Here's what you need to know: 1. Newton is sitting on the lowest completi... more

Bears rookie running back Jeremy Langford has been so impressive the past two weeks that impending free agent Matt Forte is starting to question his future in Chicago. A wide receiver when he first arrived at Michigan State, Langford has excelled... more

Jacksonville rookie Rashad Greene set up the game-winning touchdown with a 63-yard punt return to lead the Jaguars to a 19-13 victory over the Tennessee Titans on Thursday night. Here's what you need to know. 1. The Jaguars had netted just nine p... more

Change happens quickly in the NFL. Sidelined two weeks with an MCL sprain , Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte is already fielding questions about rookie Jeremy Langford as his eventual replacement. "The fans are the fans," Forte said Thursday... more

Marcus Mariota's Tennessee Titans travel to Jacksonville to face Blake Bortles' Jaguars for the opportunity to make some noise in the wide open AFC South. Here's what we'll be watching for on Thursday night : 1. This matchup hasn't held much... more

Carson Palmer won't lapse into cliches and jock-talk in advance of Sunday night's clash with the Cincinnati organization that shipped him to the Oakland Raiders after a 2011 staredown with Bengals owner Mike Brown. "It's not just another game ," P... more

The suddenly slumping Green Bay Packers offense will welcome a key player back to the rotation this week. Although James Starks will handle the first series in Sunday's NFC North clash at Minnesota, coach Mike McCarthy said Wednesday that Eddie L... more

With a day to step back and examine the situation, Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton realizes he overreacted to J.J. Watt's playful "Red Ryder BB gun" jab after Monday night's Texans victory. Dalton acknowledged Wednesday that his over-the-top comme... more

When Tennessee travels to Jacksonville for Thursday night's AFC South matchup -- airing exclusively on NFL Network -- the Jaguars will find a noticeably improved Titans defense under former Steelers coordinator Dick LeBeau. Defensive end Jurrell C... more

Every week in this space, Chris Wesseling will roll out the power rankings for one specific NFL position, attribute or award. A few weeks back, we reviewed the best offseason bargains . It's now time to unveil the companion piece, biggest free-agen... more

With Jordy Nelson's presence glaringly absent downfield and outside the numbers, the Packers' speed-challenged wide receiver corps has come under fire this season. The scrutiny has increased during Green Bay's three-game losing streak in which the... more

Backup quarterback T.J. Yates tossed his first touchdown pass since a January, 2012 playoff victory over the Bengals, leading the Houston Texans to a 10-6 upset victory in Cincinnati. Here's what you need to know: 1. Taking the reins after Brian... more

Houston Texans quarterback Brian Hoyer left in the third quarter of Monday's 10-6 upset victory over the Cincinnati Bengals after suffering a concussion, the team announced . Hoyer was also holding his throwing hand in a warmer as he walked to the... more

Peyton Manning will not face former Denver head coach John Fox and offensive coordinator Adam Gase when the Broncos travel to Chicago to take on the Bears on Sunday. Coach Gary Kubiak announced Monday that Brock Osweiler will start in Week 11, as... more

The worst game of Peyton Manning's career will not cost him his starting job going forward. Denver Broncos coach Gary Kubiak shouldered the blame for Manning's abysmal performance versus the Kansas City Chiefs, telling reporters after the game that... more

The Kansas City Chiefs intercepted the Denver Broncos' quarterbacks five times in a dominant 29-13 Week 10 victory . Here's what you need to know: 1. If the convincing Week 8 victory over Green Bay was the high point of Denver's season, Sunday was... more

Peyton Manning was benched in the third quarter of Sunday's 29-13 loss to the Chiefs , just two hours after he broke Brett Favre's record for career passing yards. Manning tossed four interceptions while leading the Broncos to just three first dow... more

Jason Myers drilled a 53-yard field goal as time expired, ending the Jacksonville Jaguars' 13-game road losing streak with a 22-20 victory over the Baltimore Ravens in Week 10. Here's what you need to know: 1. Elvis Dumervil sacked Blake Bortles a... more

An efficient Cam Newton completed 21 of 26 passes to lead the undefeated Carolina Panthers to a 27-10 victory over the Tennessee Titans in Week 10. Here's what you need to know: 1. The Panthers stuck with their winning formula, becoming the first... more

The recent housecleaning in the Lions' front office has raised questions about the futures of quarterback Matthew Stafford and wide receiver Calvin Johnson in Detroit. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport recently reported that Stafford's future was alr... more

Fantasy heads are used to seeing Marshawn Lynch on the Seattle Seahawks' injury list. The surprise this week, though, is that Lynch was a late addition to the injury report. The bruising running back is listed as "questionable" with an abdominal is... more

Matt Forte's right knee injury is more severe than the Chicago Bears originally let on. Forte confirmed Friday, via the Chicago Sun-Times, that the injury is an MCL sprain , the "same injury" he had in 2011. Along with top receiver Alshon Jeffer... more

Finally allowed to shadow opposing No. 1 receivers, Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman is coming off his two finest performances of the season. Sherman held Torrey Smith without a catch in Week 7 and dominated his Week 8 matchup with a rus... more

As of Friday afternoon, the starting quarterbacks for Sunday's AFC North tilt between the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers remained a mystery. The Steelers have listed Ben Roethlisberger as "questionable" with a foot sprain. Although Bro... more

One of the NFL's biggest ongoing mysteries is why talented Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Markus Wheaton doesn't make more plays. A third-round draft pick in 2013, Wheaton made Around The NFL's "Making the Leap " list in the summer of 2014. Alth... more

While other veteran wideouts such as Steve Smith and Malcom Floyd have announced intentions to retire after the 2015 season, Anquan Boldin has no such plans. "No, this isn't the end ," Boldin told Cam Inman of the San Jose Mercy News on Thursday.... more

DeAndre Hopkins is one of the NFL's litmus test players. Although he doesn't garner a fraction of the national publicity that Dez Bryant and Odell Beckham receive, those who watch the games week-in and week-out understand the Houston Texans' star is... more

The football gods struck down two of the NFL's top 10 rookies last week, as Colts defensive end Henry Anderson and Eagles linebacker Jordan Hicks were lost for the season with an ACL tear and a torn pectoral, respectively. Anderson had been the bes... more

Each Thursday night, Around The NFL will salute one player or coach for making the right call. NFL clubs drafted 154 players before the Buffalo Bills selected running back Karlos Williams out of Florida State in the fifth round. That's hard to... more

After a decade as one of the NFL's most underappreciated stars , Panthers linebacker Thomas Davis is finally garnering the recognition he deserves. Propelled by Carolina's flawless 8-0 start, Davis is first among outside linebackers in the early Pr... more

EJ Manuel has gone from fill-in starter to healthy scratch in a span of two weeks. Manuel is listed among the Buffalo Bills' inactives for Thursday night's "color rush" matchup with the New York Jets, leaving veteran Josh Johnson as starting quarte... more

With Andrew Luck out 2-6 weeks, the Indianapolis Colts are poaching a division rival for quarterback depth. The Colts announced Thursday that they have claimed Charlie Whitehurst off waivers from the Tennessee Titans. Whitehurst was cut to open... more

Every week in this space, Chris Wesseling will roll out the power rankings for one specific NFL position, attribute or award. So far, we have covered Offensive Rookie of the Year candidates, defensive front sevens, satellite backs, wide receivers,... more

The Buffalo Bills ended their two-game losing skid in grand fashion, becoming the first team in NFL history with a pair of 100-yard rushers and a 150-yard receiver in the same game. Although Percy Harvin is lost for the season, the Bills offense g... more

Tight end Zach Miller made a brilliant lunging touchdown catch on a Jay Cutler fastball to lead the Chicago Bears to a thrilling 22-19 comeback victory over the San Diego Chargers on Monday night. Here's what you need to know: 1. Cutler's 12... more

Blaine Gabbert has earned a second consecutive start for the San Francisco 49ers. Coach Jim Tomsula met with his quarterbacks Monday afternoon and informed them that Gabbert will start at Seattle after the Week 10 bye, according to the team's offi... more

One of the best stories of the 2015 NFL season came to a premature end in New England on Sunday when Dion Lewis went down with a torn ACL. The jitterbug scat back worked his way back from obscurity to make football more fun to watch for two months... more

Andrew Luck enjoyed his best game of the season, throwing for 252 yards and a pair of touchdowns to lead the 4-5 Indianapolis Colts to a 27-24 upset victory over the 7-1 Denver Broncos. Here's what you need to know: 1. The early returns on Rob... more

Blair Walsh connected on a 40-yard field goal, rewarding the Minnesota Vikings with a 21-18 victory over the St. Louis Rams after coach Mike Zimmer took the wind instead of the ball to start overtime. Here's what you need to know: 1. The marquee... more

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater suffered a concussion after taking a blow to the head from St. Louis Rams cornerback Lamarcus Joyner during the Vikings' 21-18 overtime win Sunday . Joyner was penalized for the vicious hit, which occ... more

The Dallas Cowboys' five-game losing streak has overshadowed stellar play from a pair of rookies. First-round defensive back Byron Jones played all 62 snaps versus Seattle, overtaking J.J. Wilcox for the starting free safety job while also handling... more

Andy Dalton connected on a trio of touchdown passes to tight end Tyler Eifert, leading the Bengals to a convincing 31-10 victory over the Cleveland Browns on Thursday night. Here's what you need to know: 1. Dalton certainly deserves all of the cr... more

With the Denver Broncos facing the Colts this week, the spotlight is on Peyton Manning's return to Indianapolis with a chance to break the NFL record for quarterback wins and career passing yards. While Manning threw better last week than he has in... more

Prior to Monday night's loss at Carolina, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported that Colts quarterback Andrew Luck is back to full health after battling shoulder and rib injuries earlier in the season. Writers, bloggers and fans then spent the... more

Every week in this space, Chris Wesseling will roll out the power rankings for one specific NFL position, attribute or award. So far, we have covered Offensive Rookie of the Year candidates, defensive front sevens, satellite backs, wide receivers,... more

Tom Brady is solidifying his case as the greatest quarterback the game of football has ever seen , but he's not the only future Hall of Famer driving the New England Patriots' top-ranked offense. Of all great tight ends in history, Rob Gronkowski... more

Joseph Randle has gone from starting Dallas Cowboys running back to NFL afterthought in a span of two weeks. The Cowboys have waived Randle, the team announced Tuesday. The running back went unclaimed on waivers and became a free agent on Wednesday... more

After dropping the game-ending interception at the end of regulation, Luke Kuechly set up a 29-26 Carolina Panthers victory over the Indianapolis Colts with an overtime interception on Monday night. Here's what you need to know: 1. It certainly w... more

Three years after leading the San Francisco 49ers to Super Bowl XLVII, Colin Kaepernick has been benched in favor of a quarterback with a 5-22 record as an NFL starter. The 49ers have informed Kaepernick that former Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback... more

Are the Denver Broncos getting the 2013 Pro Bowl version of Vernon Davis or the tight end who disappeared from the San Francisco 49ers' offense over the past 13 months? There's plenty of reason to believe the dramatic dropoff in production is more... more

When the Arizona Cardinals listed speedy wide receiver John Brown as "questionable" for Week 8 with a hamstring injury, the team's official website ran a Friday headline that read: "John Brown Status Again Wait-And-See " Although Brown was activ... more

Russell Wilson led a clutch 16-play drive to set up the game-winning field goal as the Seattle Seahawks sent the Dallas Cowboys to a 13-12 defeat in Week 8. Here's what you need to know: 1. If the Cowboys had the benefit of any quarterback remote... more

The Seattle Seahawks received a scare in Sunday's 13-12 win when wide receiver Ricardo Lockette left on a stretcher just before halftime. Working on the punt-coverage unit, Lockette appeared to be knocked out cold after taking a high hit from Dall... more

Andy Dalton shook off a pair of fourth-quarter interceptions to hit A.J. Green for the go-ahead touchdown in the Cincinnati Bengals' 16-10 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 8. Here's what you need to know: 1. For the first time this se... more

Justin Tucker connected on five field goals, including his ninth career game-winner, to lead the Baltimore Ravens to a 29-26 victory in a see-saw affair versus the San Diego Chargers. Here's what you need to know: 1. This quarterback matchup coul... more

Pittsburgh Steelers star running back Le'Veon Bell was carted off the field with a right knee injury in the second quarter of Sunday's 16-10 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, the team announced . Bell immediately reached for his right knee after his... more

The NFL is lucky to have obvious difference-making talents such as Todd Gurley and Amari Cooper arrive on the scene this season. After witnessing Odell Beckham's brilliant 2014 debut, it's easy to forget there are years in which the top rookie enjo... more

Elusive scat back Dion Lewis returned to the lineup Thursday night, generating 112 yards and a touchdown to lead the undefeated New England Patriots to a convincing 36-7 victory over the Miami Dolphins in Week 8. Here's what you need to know: 1. S... more

Carolina Panthers linebacker Thomas Davis has long been one of the NFL's most underappreciated players , failing to earn a single Pro Bowl selection despite years of high-level production. Around NFL coaching circles, however, Davis is held up as a... more

Dan Campbell's surging Miami Dolphins travel to New England to face the undefeated Patriots in a suddenly intriguing AFC East clash. Here's what we'll be watching for on Thursday night: 1. Campbell deserves all of the credit he has received for... more

Back in early September, Arizona Cardinals coach Bruce Arians raved about defensive back Tyrann Mathieu as the happiest draft choice he and general manager Steve Keim have ever made. It's easy to see why Arians is so thrilled with Mathieu, who has... more

To the surprise of no one, tight-lipped New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick isn't ready to announce running back Dion Lewis' status for Thursday night's game versus the Miami Dolphins. "We'll see tomorrow." Belichick said Wednesday, via CSN... more

Every week in this space, Chris Wesseling will roll out the power rankings for one specific NFL position, attribute or award. So far, we have covered Offensive Rookie of the Year candidates, defensive front sevens, satellite backs, wide receivers,... more

It's rare for an NFL team to take advantage of a fill-in starter to the extent the Oakland Raiders did to San Diego Chargers two-time All Pro safety Eric Weddle's replacement in Week 7. Poor Jimmy Wilson was a primary culprit on all three of Derek... more

A rejuvenated Chris Johnson provided a pair of game-changing plays, rushing for 122 yards and a touchdown to lead the Arizona Cardinals to a 26-18 victory over the Baltimore Ravens on Monday night. Here's what you need to know: 1. Arizona safety... more

Pat yourself on the back if you had Devonta Freeman and Chris Johnson as the NFL's top two rushers after seven weeks. Johnson moved into second place Monday night, thanks to a third-quarter, 62-yard run in which the Ravens' defense assumed the runn... more

Dallas Cowboys coach Jason Garrett said Monday that defensive end Greg Hardy will not be disciplined for entering the special teams huddle and slapping the clipboard of special teams coach Rich Bisaccia in the fourth quarter of Sunday's loss to the... more

Dallas wide receiver Cole Beasley muffed a late fourth-quarter punt, ending the Cowboys' chances of a two-minute drill in Sunday's 27-20 loss at the New York Giants. Here's what you need to know: 1. Matt Cassel shook off three interceptions in a... more

Marques Colston converted a key third down with two minutes remaining to help New Orleans hold off a feverish Indianapolis Colts comeback attempt in a 27-21 Week 7 victory for the Saints. Here's what you need to know: 1. Embattled Colts coach Chu... more

Filling in for an injured Jamaal Charles, Chiefs running back Charcandrick West totaled 129 yards and a touchdown to lead the Kansas City to a 23-13 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 7. Here's what you need to know: 1. With Ben... more

When we think of the 2015 New England Patriots, we naturally envision Bill Belichick and Tom Brady as the driving forces. And why wouldn't we? Belichick is the preeminent head coach of his generation and one of the dynamic forces in the evolutio... more

When the New England Patriots cut ties with their top three cornerbacks in March, the assumption was that the coaching staff had high hopes for Super Bowl hero Malcolm Butler. Would the 2014 undrafted free agent hold his own while replacing All-Pro... more

The spate of injuries depleting the San Diego Chargers' offensive line is starting to spread throughout the roster. Star safety Eric Weddle (groin) has been ruled out for Sunday's game versus the Raiders. Running back Melvin Gordon (ankle) and wide... more

As if the San Francisco 49ers' season wasn't dismal enough, they are now losing one of their few remaining defensive stars. The 49ers announced Friday that Antoine Bethea has been placed on season-ending injured reserve. The veteran safety reported... more

Sunday's game will mark Darrelle Revis' return to New England after helping the Patriots win their fourth Lombardi Trophy last February. Although Revis will be starring in a Jets uniform, he would have signed up for another opportunity with Bill... more

After Thursday night's dismal performance versus the Seahawks, coach Jim Tomsula declared that the 49ers' performance was "not acceptable ." With a night to sleep on it, Tomsula is not prepared to make any drastic changes, such as benching quarterb... more

Steve Smith's son recently took to Twitter, suggesting the undefeated Panthers should trade all of their wide receivers to Baltimore so his dad could have a homecoming in Carolina. Aside from the rather obvious caveat that Smith took a metaphorica... more

Out of sight, out of mind since undergoing surgery in August to repair a stress fracture in his shin, Chicago Bears first-round pick Kevin White recently graduated to light running. Although the Bears have at least three more weeks to activate Whi... more

While Titans' first-round pick Marcus Mariota will be out for Sunday's game versus the Falcons, second-round pick Dorial Green-Beckham is preparing for an expanded role. Green-Beckham's snaps have increased every week, from a low of nine in the sea... more

The Minnesota Vikings had to be thrilled with their 2015 draft class after reviewing the film from their Week 6 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. Wide receiver Stefon Diggs was the star attraction with 129 yards on seven receptions, showing... more

Marshawn Lynch reached the century mark in rushing yards for the fifth consecutive matchup with San Francisco, leading the Seahawks to a convincing 20-3 victory over the 49ers on Thursday night. Here's what you need to know: 1. This was a... more

After playing in 17 games across three seasons in Chicago, veteran defensive lineman Jeremiah Ratliff 's Bears career is over. The team announced Thursday that Ratliff has been released, replaced on the roster by former Steelers first-round pick Zi... more

Every week in this space, Chris Wesseling will roll out the power rankings for one specific NFL position, attribute or award. So far, we have covered Offensive Rookie of the Year candidates, defensive front sevens, satellite backs, wide receivers,... more

When the New York Jets activated defensive end Sheldon Richardson from the suspension list last week, it was natural to wonder how coach Todd Bowles would manage the challenge of squeezing four of the roster's best players into three defensive-line s... more

Overcoming four turnovers on offense, the Philadelphia Eagles moved into a first-place tie atop the NFC East after sending the New York Giants to a 27-7 defeat on Monday night. Here's what you need to know: 1. Eli Manning was cruising toward a... more

Inquiring fantasy heads want to know: What's behind Eddie Lacy's disappointing 3-yard performance in the Green Bay Packers' Week 6 victory over the San Diego Chargers? After watching Lacy struggle since spraining his ankle in Week 2, the coaching... more

First place is on the line with the 3-2 New York Giants traveling to Philadelphia to square off with the 2-3 Eagles in an NFC East clash. Here's what we'll be watching for on Monday night: 1. Although a hamstring injury has kept Odell Beckham ou... more

The Green Bay Packers overcame Philip Rivers' single-game Chargers records for completions (43), attempts (65) and passing yards (503) to escape with a 27-20 victory in Week 6. Here's what you need to know: 1. Rivers was surgical, carving up Footb... more

DeAndre Hopkins hauled in 10 passes for 148 yards and two touchdowns as the Houston Texans went into Jacksonville and emerged with a 31-20 victory over the Jaguars. Here's what you need to know: 1. This game featured two of the NFL's most acrobat... more

Andy Dalton continues to play MVP-caliber football, tossing three touchdown passes to lead the undefeated Cincinnati Bengals to a convincing 34-21 victory over the Buffalo Bills in Week 6. Here's what you need to know: 1. For all of the offseason... more

Blake Bortles is coming off the best two-game stretch of his young career, earning an AFC Offensive Player of the Week nomination after setting single-game career-highs in touchdowns (4) and passer rating (125.4) in the Jaguars' loss to the Buccaneer... more

Last we heard from Bills coach Rex Ryan, he was vacillating between holding out hope that Tyrod Taylor will play and tacitly conceding that his starting quarterback's sprain MCL will likely keep him out of Sunday's meeting with the Bengals. With... more

This is Carson Palmer's year. A decade ago , Palmer posted a passer rating of 100 or better in nine consecutive games, a stretch that had him on par with Peyton Manning and Tom Brady as the best quarterbacks in the game. He has since undergone tw... more

Lions running back Ameer Abdullah's college fumbling problems resurfaced in last week's blowout loss to the Cardinals, landing the rookie in coach Jim Caldwell's doghouse for the entire second half of the game. "Coach made the call to sit me down,... more

After spending the past month rehabbing a sprained ankle, former Seahawks running back Robert Turbin has high expectations for the rest of his first season with the Browns. Turbin told Northeast Ohio Media Group that he's aiming for 1,000 yards in... more

Even with Blake Bortles on pace for nearly 4,200 yards and more than 30 touchdowns, the Jacksonville Jaguars have managed just one win in five games. The defense was the culprit in Week 5, as the Buccaneers racked up a season-high 38 points and 369... more

When Rex Ryan's coaching staff took over in Buffalo last winter, they immediately sung the praises of Stephon Gilmore as a shutdown cornerback . What they couldn't have expected was second-round pick Ronald Darby joining Gilmore as the league's bes... more

Veteran tight end Ben Watson 's unlikely career night helped lift the New Orleans Saints to a 31-21 upset over the Atlanta Falcons on Thursday night. Here's what you need to know: 1. Saints coach Sean Payton believes Drew Brees should complete 80... more

Every week in this space, Chris Wesseling will roll out the power rankings for one specific NFL position, attribute or award. So far, we have covered Offensive Rookie of the Year candidates , defensive front sevens , satellite backs , wide receiver... more

Kam Chancellor might have won the game for the Seahawks in Week 4, but the Bengals exposed his limitations in coverage last Sunday. An emerging star at tight end, Tyler Eifert scored two easy touchdowns on twin seam passes over Chancellor's head,... more

Finally unshackled from offensive coordinator Todd Haley's ultra-conservative game plan, a composed Mike Vick orchestrated an impressive three-minute touchdown drive to lead the Pittsburgh Steelers to a thrilling 24-20 victory over the San Diego Cha... more

After 261 NFL starts, 184 wins, 70,925 passing yards and a record-breaking 536 touchdowns, the interrogator came for Peyton Manning. With the NFL's most dominant defense acting as a powerful deodorant for an unseemly offense, Denver Broncos coach... more

Cornerback Chris Harris' 74-yard interception-return touchdown was the difference in the game as the Denver Broncos escaped with a 16-10 victory at the Oakland Raiders in Week 5. Here's what you need to know: 1. We saw why Raiders defensive end J... more

The Arizona Cardinals' defense generated six turnovers, forcing Matthew Stafford out of the game in a 42-17 blowout victory at the Detroit Lions in Week 5. Here's what you need to know: 1. Pay no attention to last week's aberrant loss in which Ar... more

The Green Bay Packers overcame three Aaron Rodgers turnovers -- including his first Lambeau Field interception in 1,043 days -- to send the St. Louis Rams to a 24-10 defeat in Week 5. Here's what you need to know: 1. Just as they did last week to... more

Last week's victory over an outstanding Cardinals team had to be the most inspiring of the Jeff Fisher-Les Snead era in St. Louis. The Rams' A+ performance was the culmination of nearly every high-profile move made by Fisher and Snead over the past... more

Andre Johnson caught a pair of touchdown passes in his return to Houston, as the Colts pulled out a 27-20 victory over the Texans on Thursday night. Here's what you need to know: 1. Chalk one up for Indianapolis' over-the-hill gang. Matt Hasselbe... more

The Houston Texans are in a holding pattern at quarterback. Starter Ryan Mallett came out during the second quarter of Thursday night's 27-20 loss  to the Indianapolis Colts after being hit in the midsection by linebacker Sio Moore on a play that w... more

Arizona Cardinals coach Bruce Arians has a good problem on his hands with Andre Ellington returning from a sprained right PCL this week. Now Arians has to adjust his depth chart in a crowded backfield with Ellington re-joining Comeback Player of t... more

The Cleveland Browns have provided more evidence for Philip Rivers' stake to the claim of the NFL's beautiful mind . Playing behind a depleted offensive line and down to just two healthy wide receivers in the fourth quarter, Rivers' brilliance was... more

Is C.J. Anderson finally loosening his grip on the Denver Broncos' starting running back job? After Ronnie Hillman finished with a Broncos season-high 103 yards in Week 4, coach Gary Kubiak changed gears, acknowledging that he now considers both ba... more

In advance of Sunday's matchup with the Patriots, 10-time Pro Bowl tight end Jason Witten is bidding for a coveted spot on the Mt. Rushmore of Bill Belichick opponents. It's a treat for football cognoscenti when Belichick unfurls praise for a respe... more

No trio of teammates under the age of 25 ever posted more passing, rushing and receiving yards than Derek Carr, Latavius Murray and Amari Cooper recorded in Oakland's Week 3 victory at Cleveland. Two weeks later, that young offensive firepower fac... more

Dan Campbell is using his first practice as interim head coach to send a message to the Miami Dolphins players: It's time to get tougher. Campbell pulled the team together in practice, then split the squad into offense and defense for an Oklahoma D... more

Every week in this space, Chris Wesseling will roll out the power rankings for one specific NFL position, attribute or award. So far, we have covered Offensive Rookie of the Year candidates , defensive front sevens , satellites backs and wide rece... more

Despite generating a season-high 192 yards from scrimmage in the Vikings' Week 2 victory, Adrian Peterson's famed fifth-gear was noticeably missing on a 49-yard catch-and-run through open prairie land. After Peterson showed off his trademark power... more

Calvin Johnson accepted the blame for his fumble that cost his team a chance to win Monday night at Seattle, explaining that the winless Lions can't put the game in the hands of the officials. Teammate James Ihedigbo wasn't so understanding after... more

Pro Bowl safety Kam Chancellor punched the ball out of Calvin Johnson's hands at the goal line to prevent the game-winning touchdown in the Seattle Seahawks' 13-10 victory over the Detroit Lions on Monday night. Here's what you need to know: 1.... more

Rookie Todd Gurley exploded for 136 yards in the second half as the St. Louis Rams held on for a 24-22 nail-biting victory over the Arizona Cardinals in a hard-fought Week 4 NFC West showdown. Here's what you need to know: 1. We've seen the... more

An offsides penalty on Cleveland Browns cornerback Tramon Williams gave Chargers kicker Josh Lambo a second chance at the game-winning field goal in San Diego's 30-27 victory in Week 4. Here's what you need to know: 1. The Chargers emerged on top... more

The Atlanta Falcons remain undefeated, as NFL touchdown leader Devonta Freeman gashed the Houston Texans for 149 yards and three scores in a 48-21 Week 4 victory . Here's what you need to know: 1. Why do NFL teams prefer young legs at running back... more

The Houston Texans made their second quarterback switch of the young season on Sunday. Coach Bill O'Brien turned back to Week 1 starter Brian Hoyer after his team fell into a 42-0 hole late in the third quarter of a 48-21 loss to the Atlanta Falco... more

Christine Michael has worked with the first-team offense this week for the first time since the Dallas Cowboys acquired the enigmatic tailback from the Seattle Seahawks early last month. "That's good to see him work with our first group," offensiv... more

The Pittsburgh Steelers are on the lookout for alternatives to struggling kicker Josh Scobee. NFL Media's James Palmer reported the Steelers will try out free agent Chris Boswell, who was with the New York Giants in training camp. In addition, the... more

Despite Bruce Arians' best efforts to the contrar y, the expectations are rising in Arizona. The Cardinals' 126 points through three games trail only the record-breaking 2013 Broncos' total of 127 points. Their plus-77 point differential is the... more

Although the Indianapolis Colts signed Josh Johnson as quarterback insurance on Friday, coach Chuck Pagano is unwavering in his belief that Andrew Luck will play through a shoulder injury. Asked if he remains "supremely confident" that Luck will s... more

Is it crazy to think Atlanta general manager Thomas Dimitroff could win his third NFL Executive of the Year award months after having his power reduced in the front office? The new coaching staff has guided the Falcons to a 3-0 start, as Kyle Shan... more

Ornery Baltimore Ravens wideout Steve Smith made another enemy in Thursday night's thrilling victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. After taking a hit from Pittsburgh Steelers safety Mike Mitchell, Smith vowed revenge on his former Carolina Panthers... more

In a sporting contest still anachronistically referred to as football, the Baltimore Ravens overcame the Pittsburgh Steelers in overtime, 23-20 , due to superior kicking Thursday night. Here's what you need to know: 1. This was a tale of two kicke... more

Every week in this space, Chris Wesseling will roll out the power rankings for one specific NFL position, attribute or award. So far, we have covered Offensive Rookie of the Year candidates , defensive front sevens and satellite backs . After he... more

Three weeks after Montee Ball went unclaimed on waivers , the former Denver Broncos second-round draft pick is drawing interest from another AFC powerhouse. The New England Patriots worked out Ball on Tuesday, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reporte... more

With another touchdown in Week 3, Seattle Seahawks rookie Tyler Lockett is leading the NFL in kick-return yardage after capturing mythical preseason MVP honors in August. Lockett has been so dynamic on returns that coach Pete Carroll expects oppone... more

Aaron Rodgers continues to befuddle opponents, throwing for 333 yards and five touchdowns in the Green Bay Packers' 38-28 Week 3 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. Here's what you need to know: 1. The Packers are an unconstrained buzzsaw in Gre... more

The Buffalo Bills are prepared to turn their backfield over to rookie Karlos Williams versus the New York Giants in Week 4. Nursing a nagging hamstring injury, LeSean McCoy is unlikely to play this week , NFL Media's Rand Getlin reported, via a sou... more

For the third time in the past 12 months, the New England Patriots are trading for a linebacker. The Pats acquired Jon Bostic from the Chicago Bears on Monday in exchange for a 2016 late-round draft pick, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, vi... more

The Buffalo Bills jumped out to a 27-0 halftime lead and held on for a 41-14 victory over the Miami Dolphins in Week 3. Here's what you need to know: 1. The game went according to script for Buffalo. The Bills' fearsome defensive front dominated... more

The Indianapolis Colts scored three touchdowns in the fourth quarter, coming from behind to knock off the Tennessee Titans in a 35-33 thriller . Here's what you need to know: 1. Just when it appeared that the Colts were going to continue as a... more

The New England Patriots' offense stayed white hot on Sunday, cruising to a 51-17 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars. Here's what you need to know: 1. The Patriots jumped out to a 51-10 lead with eight possessions that resulted in five touchdo... more

Through two weeks, the Arizona Cardinals have the NFL's best point differential. While much of that success can be attributed to the porous defenses of the New Orleans Saints and Chicago Bears, there's reason to believe Arizona's offense has yet to... more

Each Thursday night, Around The NFL will salute one player or coach for making the right call. Odell Beckham's 110 receptions and 1,574 yards are the most in NFL history through 15 games. Since making his debut in Week 5 of last season, his 14... more

Through two weeks John Brown's box scores show pedestrian numbers, as the Cardinals' speedy receiver has been held under 50 yards in each of Arizona's victories over the Saints and Bears. Through two weeks, John Brown has been one of the NFL's most... more

When Adrian Peterson was bottled up for 31 yards on 10 carries in his 2015 debut, it was natural to wonder if he might have lost a step after missing 15 games last season. After watching Peterson rack up 192 yards on 31 touches versus the Lions las... more

Vikings coach Mike Zimmer has a heightened appreciation of Philip Rivers' talents. After all, Zimmer has schemed against the Chargers quarterback as defensive coordinator with the Cowboys, Falcons and Bengals for the past decade. His offensive... more

When the Green Bay Packers re-signed B.J. Raji to a one-year contract back in March, they couldn't have expected him to re-emerge as their most disruptive defensive lineman. Moved from defensive end back to nose tackle after missing the 2014 seaso... more

Every week in this space, Chris Wesseling will roll out the power rankings for one specific NFL position, attribute or award. So far, we have covered Offensive Rookie of the Year candidates and defensive front sevens . Now that Dion Lewis has ra... more

The Washington Redskins realized they had a third-round steal on their hands back in rookie minicamp, when general manager Scot McCloughan evoked Marshawn Lynch in describing former Florida star Matt Jones. While it's easy to understand comparison... more

The Philadelphia Eagles are still awaiting a tangible return on their high-dollar offseason investments in Sam Bradford, DeMarco Murray and Byron Maxwell. After two weeks, their investment in Kiko Alonso has already been lost for an extended period... more

Darrelle Revis recorded three takeaways as the New York Jets forced a trio of Andrew Luck interceptions in a 20-7 victory over the Indianapolis Colts on Monday night. Here's what you need to know: 1. The Jets generated just 13 takeaways all last... more

The Indianapolis Colts played without two key starters in the second half of Monday night's 20-7 loss  to the New York Jets. Pro Bowl cornerback Vontae Davis (concussion) and tight end Dwayne Allen (ankle) were ruled out for the game. Although Da... more

The Ravens are getting proactive in an effort to shore up a secondary that paved the way for Derek Carr's career game in Week 2. The Miami Dolphins have traded cornerback Will Davis to Baltimore, the team announced. Miami will receive a late-round... more

The Dallas Cowboys survived the loss of Tony Romo, holding off the Philadelphia Eagles for an ugly 20-10 victory on Sunday . Here's what you need to know: 1. Although the Cowboys are the NFC East's lone undefeated team two weeks into the season,... more

One week after losing Dez Bryant to a foot fracture, the Dallas Cowboys saw their franchise quarterback go down with a serious injury. The team announced Sunday that Tony Romo suffered a broken left clavicle in the third quarter of their 20-10 win... more

Jameis Winston outplayed Drew Brees, leading the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a 26-19 upset over the New Orleans Saints on Sunday. Here's what you need to know: 1. Winston bounced back in impressive fashion from a disastrous debut last week. He lofte... more

Johnny Manziel won the battle of young quarterbacks on Sunday, leading the Cleveland Browns to a 28-14 victory over Marcus Mariota and the Tennessee Titans. Here's what you need to know: 1. The difference in the game was speedy Browns receiver... more

Outside of AFC Offensive Player of the Week Marcus Mariota, the opening week of the season came and went without major contributions from marquee rookies. As the season goes along, we can expect to see breakout performances from the likes of Amari... more

Each Thursday night, Around The NFL will salute one player or coach for making the right call. Peyton Manning earned the award for the Broncos' 31-24 victory over the Chiefs after relentlessly targeting cornerback Jamell Fleming on a clutch... more

It's time for Broncos coach Gary Kubiak to take a page out of Mike McCoy's book. When Peyton Manning's Denver career got off to a 2-3 start back in 2012, then-coordinator McCoy was wise enough to scrap his offense in favor of the one his veteran... more

The AFC West takes center stage Thursday night, as the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs square off for a 2-0 start and control of the division. Two years removed from setting records as the highest-scoring offense in NFL history, the scales ha... more

The New England Patriots have pulled the trigger on a trade to strengthen their wide receiver corps. Bill Belicheck's outfit acquired wide receiver and kick returner Keshawn Martin and a 2016 sixth-round draft pick from the Houston Texans in exchan... more

The Around The NFL Podcast wondered last week if the Tennessee Titans had slow-played the rest of the league in preseason action, preparing to spring a Chip Kelly-style offense on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers once they began playing for keeps. Coach... more

Every week in this space, Chris Wesseling will roll out the power rankings for one specific NFL position, attribute or award. Last week, we covered the top 10 Offensive Rookie of the Year candidates . After watching Aaron Donald, J.J. Watt and th... more

The Baltimore Ravens have zeroed in on their replacement for outside linebacker Terrell Suggs, who was lost for the season with an Achilles tendon injury. The team has signed veteran pass rusher Jason Babin to a one-year contract, NFL Media's Rand... more

The Dallas Cowboys have acquired depth at wide receiver with All-Pro Dez Bryant sidelined for at least the next month. Owner Jerry Jones traded an undisclosed draft pick to the Raiders in exchange for Brice Butler, per David Helman of the Cowboys'... more

Bryce Brown's Buffalo Bills career will end with 302 total yards over seven games. The team announced Tuesday that the fourth-string running back has been released to create room on the 53-man roster for star defensive tackle Marcell Dareus, who wa... more

The Oakland Raiders could be without both starting safeties this week. Eight-time Pro Bowler Charles Woodson suffered a dislocated shoulder in Sunday's loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via people who have sp... more

The Atlanta Falcons' blockers held their own as the offense racked up 244 yards in the first half of Monday night's opener versus the Philadelphia Eagles. Even with that impressive showing, the offensive line got reinforcements Tuesday. Former... more

Rex Ryan's Buffalo Bills defense stifled Andrew Luck and the Indianapolis Colts' offense en route to a convincing 27-14 victory in Week 1. Here's what you need to know: 1. Between Ryan's disguised blitzes and a series of ill-timed offensive holdi... more

The Indianapolis Colts couldn't come from behind to beat the Buffalo Bills in the fourth quarter, a tough task to do without their top wide receiver. T.Y. Hilton injured his knee during the fourth quarter and didn't return in the 27-14 loss to the... more

Aldon Smith won't be returning to the San Francisco 49ers, but he is staying in the Bay Area. The Oakland Raiders signed Smith to a one-year contract after a recent face-to-face meeting, the team announced Friday. Smith's deal can be worth up to... more

The Indianapolis Colts are adding much-needed depth to their defensive line after losing Arthur Jones to ankle surgery . The Cleveland Browns announced Friday that they have traded defensive end Billy Winn to the Colts in exchange for a conditional... more

With the preseason schedule in the books, Peyton Manning's arm strength remains the NFL's biggest mystery . Although Broncos wide receivers have testified that Manning has "more zip " and can still "make every single throw ," recent game film raise... more

Over the past half-decade, Dwayne Bowe has devolved from Pro Bowl level with the Chiefs to third-string wideout on the Browns' season-opening depth chart. There were even whispers last week that Bowe's roster spot was in jeopardy despite signing a... more

The Dallas Cowboys plan to reward defensive tackle Tyrone Crawford for a successful 2014 season. The team's front office is working aggressively to sign Crawford to a long-term contract, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via sources close t... more

Tom Brady was masterful in the Patriots' 28-21 victory in the 2015 NFL Kickoff on Thursday night. After watching Pittsburgh's defense blow coverages throughout the game, it's fair to wonder if Patriots backup quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo would hav... more

Welcome to the 2015 NFL season! Every week in this space, I will roll out the power rankings for one specific NFL position, attribute or award. First on the docket is Around The NFL's list of the Top 10 Offensive Rookie of the Year candidates. Si... more

The Philadelphia Eagles have identified their new starters at guard, replacing departing veterans Evan Mathis and Todd Herremans. Having claimed the starting job opposite veteran Allen Barbre, right guard Andrew Gardner was awarded with a new contr... more

The Atlanta Falcons will lean heavily on a rookie running back in their season opener versus the Eagles on Monday night . The team's official depth chart lists third-round pick Tevin Coleman as the Week 1 starter over Devonta Freeman. Coach Dan... more

Don't look for the Seattle Seahawks to unload disgruntled strong safety Kam Chancellor, who has begun to draw trade feelers from other teams in the past week. Asked about fielding phone calls for Chancellor, coach Pete Carroll responded Monday, vi... more

Dallas Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones acknowledged Monday afternoon that newly acquired running back Christine Michael is a "long shot " to suit up versus the New York Giants in the season premiere of NBC's Sunday Night Football .... more

Dallas' dominant offensive line is growing even deeper. The Cowboys claimed tackle Jordan Mills off waivers from the Bears on Monday, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via a source informed of the situation. How bout dem Cowboys , Dallas... more

Jonas Gray ends his New England career as a one-game wonder. The former undrafted free agent out of Notre Dame was cut by the Patriots on Saturday. Along with veteran wideout Reggie Wayne -- who also was released  by the Patriots -- Gray was abs... more

Duron Carter's redemption story is on hiatus. Carter was among the Indianapolis Colts' cuts on Saturday, along with defensive tackles Josh Chapman and Montori Hughes. The son of Hall of Famer Cris Carter, Duron signed with the Colts in February... more

Reggie Wayne survived just two weeks on the New England Patriots' roster. The former Indianapolis Colts star asked for and was granted his release Saturday, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, via a source close to the veteran wide receiver.... more

Arizona Cardinals right tackle Bobby Massie was suspended two games by the league Saturday for the violating the NFL's Policy and Program on Substances of Abuse. Massie initially was facing the prospect of a three-game ban before getting the suspensi... more

Kellen Moore is out of a job after the Detroit Lions gave him an opportunity to unseat Dan Orlovsky for the backup quarterback spot. Moore and tight end Joseph Fauria were among the Lions' cuts on Saturday, the team confirmed . Moore completed 2... more

Sio Moore's career with the Oakland Raiders is over. The Raiders traded Moore to the Indianapolis Colts on Friday, the team announced. In exchange, the Raiders will receive a sixth-round pick in the 2016 draft. The Raiders confirmed the trade on... more

With apologies to Australian rugby league sensation Jarryd Hayne, Seahawks rookie wide receiver Tyler Lockett locked up mythical preseason MVP honors with another long touchdown in Thursday night's 31-21 preseason victory over the Oakland Raiders.... more

Raiders pass rusher Khalil Mack was perhaps the most dominant player in the league last week, wreaking havoc on the Cardinals' depleted offensive line to the tune of two sacks, a forced fumble and a handful of quarterback hurries. Mack has been so... more

Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay has shot down speculation that coach Chuck Pagano must win a Super Bowl to keep his job in 2015. There is still ample reason to believe, however, that Pagano will enter the season on the proverbial hot seat despi... more

Rookie Melvin Gordon has averaged just 2.2 yards per carry this preseason, leaving the San Diego Chargers' tailback plans in flux. Quarterback Philip Rivers stressed this week that the backfield distribution is "not going to be all Melvin." "As C... more

When general manager Reggie McKenzie declared in December that the Oakland Raiders' foundation had finally been built , it was firmly believed that talented young linebacker Sio Moore was part of that nucleus. An All-Rookie selection in 2013, Moore... more

Former Bears linebacker Lance Briggs hinted Wednesday that he is close to retiring from the NFL after 12 years in Chicago. Briggs has yet to file the official paperwork, but expects to make a final decision in the next few weeks. After fielding... more

Former San Francisco 49ers owner Edward DeBartolo Jr. has a chance to join 2015 inductees Bill Polian and Ron Wolf in the "contributor" category of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame announced Wednesday that DeBartolo has been selected... more

Bears Lions Packers Vikings Around The NFL's season preview goes to the NFC North. Change we can believe in As a rookie, Teddy Bridgewater was one of December's premier quarterbacks with Matt Asiata, Charles Johnson, Jarius Wrigh... more

Bears Lions Packers Vikings Around The NFL's season preview goes to the NFC North. Change we can believe in It remains to be seen if Adam Gase can fix Jay Cutler and a broken offense, but the hiring of Vic Fangio -- one of the ga... more

Bears Lions Packers Vikings Around The NFL's season preview goes to the NFC North. Change we can believe in The Packers annually make fewer changes than any other team. Of the players in their regular rotation, only veterans Juli... more

Bears Lions Packers Vikings Around The NFL's season preview goes to the NFC North. Change we can believe in The Lions upgraded in a major way when they drafted Ameer Abdullah to replace a declining Reggie Bush. After stealing the... more

The past calendar year been a surreal odyssey for Miami Dolphins wide receiver Rishard Matthews. Since last summer, Matthews has been shopped around the league , has requested a trade and is now threatening to displace Kenny Stills in three-wide... more

It's common knowledge that Alex Smith didn't throw a single touchdown to a wide receiver last season. But did you realize the streak had reached 594 consecutive days before last week's touchdown pass to Jeremy Maclin? If the preseason is any... more

Marcus Mariota has been the picture of unflappability in his first preseason with the Tennessee Titans. He bounced back in strong fashion from two early turnovers in the preseason opener. A headset malfunction failed to shake his confidence in las... more

Stevie Brown's Houston career lasted just four months. The Texans released the veteran safety on Friday. The team officially announced the move Saturday. Brown reportedly had offers from five or six teams when he signed with Houston in late April... more

After losing the Houston Texans' starting quarterback job to Brian Hoyer, Ryan Mallett has gone from disappointed to delinquent. Mallett missed Thursday's practice because he overslept , John McClain of the Houston Chronicle reported. Mallett did... more

Coach Mike Tomlin was riding a wave of optimism back in March, when he declared that the Steelers are capable of becoming "the very best " offense in the NFL. And why not? Pittsburgh is home to the NFL's most unstoppable "triplets " in quarterbac... more

When it comes to falling in love, the stages are smitten, head-over-heels, twitterpated and the honeymoon rapture that highly decorated Colts veterans Frank Gore and Andre Johnson are currently experiencing for Andrew Luck. After a dozen years in... more

The Baltimore Ravens are committing to safety Will Hill beyond the 2015 season. The team announced Thursday that Hill has agreed to a two-year contract. Hill had signed a one-year, $1.542 million restricted free-agent tender in March. He was due to... more

When the Panthers overhauled their receiving corps last offseason, coach Ron Rivera emphasized a collective effort to generate 10 receptions per game. Now that No. 1 receiver Kelvin Benjamin is out for the season , offensive coordinator Mike Shula... more

Connor Barth is returning to Tampa. A day after being released by the Denver Broncos, Barth signed a deal with the Buccaneers, the team announced Thursday. The deal is for two years at a maximum value of $2.75 million, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapopor... more

The past week has been an especially harrowing one in the NFL's season-long war of attrition. Since Carolina Panthers second-year star Kelvin Benjamin tore his ACL last Wednesday, the Green Bay Packers have lost Pro Bowl receiver Jordy Nelson, the... more

In the past few months, Mychal Kendricks has gone from trade bait to nucleus player for the Philadelphia Eagles. Among inside linebackers, Kendricks' new contract places him behind Pro Bowl players such as Bobby Wagner, Lawrence Timmons and NaVorr... more

Tampa Bay Buccaneers tailback Doug Martin stole the spotlight from Jameis Winston on Monday night, not an easy task when the quarterback is the No. 1 overall pick making his first national television appearance. A slimmer, speedier Martin justifie... more

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers' starters dominated the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday Night Football , led by the strong arm of an improved Jameis Winston. Winston showed more command of the offense in his second preseason game, orchestrating an eight-play... more

Early in training camp, Philadelphia Eagles coach Chip Kelly shot down speculation that linebacker Mychal Kendricks was on the trade block. Kelly made good on his word, as the Eagles signed Kendricks to a four-year, $29 million contract extension... more

Jordy Nelson broke the Green Bay Packers' single-season record for receiving yards in 2014, earning a long-overdue trip to the Pro Bowl. Although he hasn't been as decorated as other big-name wideouts, Nelson has had a strong claim as the NFL's pre... more

The Tennessee Titans' quarterback situation is quickly transforming from one of the NFL's least productive to one of the NFL's most enviable. After an uneven preseason debut last week, starter Marcus Mariota showed improvement Sunday night versus... more

Former Australian rugby league star Jarryd Hayne is quickly becoming one of the NFL's most exciting open-field runners . Assuming punt-return duties for the San Francisco 49ers in Sunday evening's preseason tilt, Hayne scooted through the Dallas... more

Just hours after Jordy Nelson became the second No. 1 receiver lost to a knee injury this month, future Hall of Famer Randy Moss told a national television audience that he's open to an NFL comeback. "I actually have not lost the itch," Moss told F... more

Robert Griffin III returned to team drills in Sunday's practice, just two days after suffering an apparent concussion in the Washington Redskins' second preseason game. Coach Jay Gruden explained that Griffin was cleared for "non-contact" activity... more

Matt Ryan will be without his No. 2 receiver for the remainder of the preseason schedule. Atlanta Falcons coach Dan Quinn announced Sunday that Roddy White will undergo minor surgery to clean out loose particles in his elbow. Quinn fully expects W... more

The Green Bay Packers lost one of their best players to injury on the opening drive of Sunday's 24-19 preseason loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Packers announced on Monday that wide receiver Jordy Nelson will miss the remainder of the 2015 se... more

Of all the breakout candidates at wide receiver this season, Brandin Cooks of the Saints has been the most impressive through two weeks of preseason action. Patriots coach Bill Belichick offered high praise after the speedy wideout burned his def... more

On a late-August night featuring just two preseason tilts, Chase Daniel's ongoing preseason excellence is worth highlighting. After Daniel kicked off the third quarter with a scoring drive in the Kansas City Chiefs' 14-13 victory over the Seattle... more

An Arizona Cardinals offensive line that seemed so promising throughout the offseason is now riddled with question marks. Left guard Mike Iupati, signed away from the San Francisco 49ers in March, is expected to undergo arthroscopic knee surgery t... more

The Carolina Panthers' worst fears were realized when the MRI results came back on Kelvin Benjamin's Wednesday morning knee injury. The second-year wide receiver will need season-ending surgery for a torn left ACL, the team confirmed. NFL Media Ins... more

The Pro Football Hall of Fame Senior Committee nominated former Oakland Raiders quarterback Ken Stabler and former Detroit Lions and Washington Redskins guard Dick Stanfel for the Class of 2016. The committee considers players who have been retired... more

First-round rookie Melvin Gordon was outplayed by Danny Woodhead and Branden Oliver in the San Diego Chargers' preseason opener, managing just 11 yards on six carries. Although the offensive line failed to open wide lanes, Gordon still showed a... more

Has any position group in the NFL been more valuable than the Seahawks' secondary over the past two years? The "Legion of Boom " has led Seattle to back-to-back Super Bowl appearances, shutting down opposing pass defenses at a historically great l... more

Fresh off the training-camp PUP list , Darren McFadden is taking advantage of Joseph Randle's absence due to an oblique strain. McFadden dominated one-on-one pass drills on Monday, leading Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones to dust off his hyperbole... more

Buffalo Bills stars began dropping like flies in Tuesday's practice. Minutes after All-Pro tailback LeSean McCoy limped off with a hamstring injury , coach Rex Ryan disclosed that wide receiver Percy Harvin was given a platelet-rich plasma (PRP)... more

The New York Jets have added veteran quarterback insurance in the wake of Geno Smith's jaw surgery. The Jets signed former Packers backup Matt Flynn, the team announced Wednesday. Flynn was released by the Patriots earlier this month when a naggi... more

Armed with the knowledge that All Pro tailback DeMarco Murray was ticketed for free agency, the Dallas Cowboys saddled up their workhorse for the seventh-most carries (436) in NFL history last season. The Philadelphia Eagles were steeped in the res... more

Now that Ben Roethlisberger and Philip Rivers have landed long-term contract extensions, the attention turns to another highly decorated member of the 2004 quarterback draft class. Although the New York Giants hope to sign Eli Manning to a new deal... more

The Baltimore Ravens are an alleged playoff contender with red flags surfacing in their passing attack. Joe Flacco watched deep threat Torrey Smith and security blanket Owen Daniels depart for greener pastures in March, leaving behind a trail of... more

Robert Griffin III made news Monday after telling a local reporter that he still believes he can be the best quarterback in the league . Taken in proper context, it's an understandable sentiment. That same ultra-confident, hyper-competitive mindset... more

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have added a 100-game starter to their beleaguered offensive line. The Bucs signed right tackle Gosder Cherilus to a two-year contract on Monday, according to the team. The deal is worth $7 million, NFL Media Insider Ian... more

A week into training camp, Jacksonville Jaguars general manager David Caldwell noted a "night and day " difference between Blake Bortles' first and second seasons. The difference goes beyond Bortles' overhauled throwing mechanics to a more confide... more

Finally free of Rex Ryan's swarming defense, the Buffalo Bills' beleaguered quarterbacks exceeded expectations in a 25-24 loss to the Carolina Panthers in the teams' preseason opener. Veteran Matt Cassel, the starter by default, converted a pair of... more

Just days after being named the team's starter, Washington Redskins tight end Niles Paul is now done for the season. Paul was carted off the field Thursday with a nasty ankle injury. Coach Jay Gruden announced after the game that the converted wide... more

If the preseason opener was Jimmy Garoppolo's audition for the NFL Kickoff game versus the Pittsburgh Steelers, the New England Patriots can't feel any better about their quarterback situation than they were entering training camp. With the obvious... more

One of the biggest mysteries of the offseason is turning into a non-issue in training camp. It was fair to question Peyton Manning's already waning arm strength after his performance noticeably slipped down the stretch last season. By all accou... more

Coaches come and go in San Francisco, but the adulation for beleaguered backup quarterback Blaine Gabbert remains just as strong. On the heels of Gabbert's nightmarish 49ers preseason debut last August, then-coach Jim Harbaugh announced that he was... more

Steve Smith will be an interesting test-case for any Hall of Fame voter who has not watched game film over the past 15 years. Those who have witnessed his game-wrecking ability year-in and year-out inherently understand the greatest player in Car... more

A half-decade ago, Detroit fans watched promising young running backs Jahvid Best and Mikel Leshoure go down with hard-luck, career-ending injuries. If Ameer Abdullah can stay healthy, the Lions believe their early-round backfield investment will... more

Displeased with his running backs, Arizona Cardinals coach Bruce Arians suggested Monday that he would look outside the organization for alternatives . That backfield help might just come in the form of free agent Chris Johnson. The Cardinals hav... more

Might free agent Ray Rice's wish for the opportunity to "hang 'em up the right way " land him in Cleveland? Coach Mike Pettine acknowledged to SI.com's Don Banks on Tuesday that the Browns have discussed signing Rice , who has been out of league si... more

The NFL's "play it by the book " adage has taken on a different meaning in the age of analytics. Ron Rivera learned the hard way. After being saddled with the NFL's worst record in close games early in his Panthers coaching career, Rivera saved his... more

Veteran defensive tackle Tony McDaniel wasn't out of work long following last week's release by the Seattle Seahawks. McDaniel signed a one-year contract worth up to $2.5 million with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, NFL Media's Rand Getlin reports, via... more

The Philadelphia Eagles suddenly might be harboring second thoughts about their recent decision to trade cornerback Brandon Boykin. Sixth-round rookie JaCorey Shepherd, one of the players expected to fill Boykin's void in the slot, suffered a torn... more

Less than a week after DeAndre Levy signed a new deal with the Lions, one of the NFL's other premier linebackers landed a long-term contract. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers agreed to terms with weakside linebacker Lavonte David on a five-year extension,... more

Former New York Giants Hall of Famer and broadcast legend Frank Gifford has died suddenly of natural causes at age 84, his family told the Associated Press on Sunday. "We rejoice in the extraordinary life he was privileged to live," the family said... more

The Buffalo Bills' carousel of quarterback disappointment extended into Saturday's scrimmage, with one fan openly pining for the return of Kyle Orton. Although EJ Manuel was the consensus scrimmage "winner," WKBW's Joe Buscaglia described the... more

Now that franchise players Dez Bryant and Demaryius Thomas have set the 2015 market for No. 1 receivers, the Atlanta Falcons are ramping up efforts to sign Julio Jones to a long-term extension. Owner Arthur Blank emphasized Sunday that the Falcons... more

Most rankings of the best players in NFL history start with Jim Brown, Jerry Rice and Lawrence Taylor. Vikings running back Adrian Peterson is confident that he will join that trio in the inner circle of the Hall of Fame once he establishes himsel... more

In just over two years, Buffalo Bills cornerback Nickell Robey has graduated from undrafted rookie to nucleus player. The Bills announced Sunday that Robey has signed a long-term contract extension. NFL Media's Rand Getlin reports Robey's extensi... more

The late-season emergence of running back Jeremy Hill isn't the only reason to believe the Cincinnati Bengals will boast their best offense in more than a decade this season. They are also welcoming wide receiver Marvin Jones and tight end Tyler... more

Confounded with the most underwhelming quarterback room in the league, Bills coach Rex Ryan considered reuniting with free agent Michael Vick prior to training camp. "I had a conversation with Mike," Ryan told PFT Live on Friday. "Mike's an outsta... more

The St. Louis Rams believe they have their answer at quarterback in Nick Foles. The team announced Friday that Foles has signed a two-year extension through the 2017 season. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported that the deal is worth just over... more

One of the most interesting NFL storylines of the summer is how quickly Marcus Mariota has dispelled the notion that he will be a developmental project for the Tennessee Titans. On the heels of an impressive offseason performance that left teamma... more

The San Francisco 49ers will not wash their hands of Aldon Smith after releasing the troubled pass rusher . That was the message from Jim Tomsula at Friday's press conference, on the heels of Smith's third DUI arrest . "Although Aldon won't be pl... more

General manager Doug Whaley conceded earlier this week that the Bills are "almost in quarterback purgatory ." Of all the quarterback situations in the NFL, Buffalo's might just be the most frustrating. The rest of the roster is Super Bowl-caliber.... more

The Indianapolis Colts' excitement for Phillip Dorsett hasn't dissipated since the speedy first-round draft pick earned rave reviews for his work in offseason practices. Appearing on Wednesday's edition of the Around The NFL Podcast , NFL Media... more

After two years as an afterthought in the Rams' offense, former No. 8 overall pick Tavon Austin is being prepped for a featured role in 2015. "There's no doubt in my mind that his production level should increase ," coach Jeff Fisher said this week... more

Dallas Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones acknowledged in January that officials made the correct call on Dez Bryant's controversial "catch" that was ruled incomplete versus the Green Bay Packers in the playoffs. At the time, Jones cal... more

When the Colts rejected trade offers to select speedy wideout Phillip Dorsett late in the draft's first round, speculation immediately centered on T.Y. Hilton's future in Indianapolis. Would the Colts plug Dorsett into the starting lineup in 2016,... more

Fair warning to the rest of the NFC: The Seahawks' biggest 2014 weakness figures to be a team strength this season. Seattle's pivotal Week 11 loss at Kansas City highlighted the passing-game's failures in the red zone. With no size or physicality... more

Eagles coach Chip Kelly emphasized Sunday that the Steelers "actively pursued " their recent trade for cornerback Brandon Boykin. Now we have a better sense of why Pittsburgh was so aggressive in trade talks. The Steelers are considering season-e... more

Glowing reports from NFL insiders and Steelers beat writers last week provoked a virtual stampede of fantasy football analysts rushing to anoint Martavis Bryant the NFL's breakout star of 2015. Around The NFL had already purchased shares of Bryan... more

After being placed on the pre-draft trade block , inside linebacker Mychal Kendricks acknowledged in June that he might not be on the Philadelphia Eagles' roster by the start of the season . When cornerback Brandon Boykin was traded to the Pittsbu... more

Buoyed by the emergence of Jeremy Hill and the return to health of A.J. Green, Marvin Jones and Tyler Eifert, the Cincinnati Bengals are set up for their most explosive offense in a decade . If they are finally going to make it out of the Wild Car... more

Pro Bowl defensive end Sheldon Richardson's 2015 season is in question following his recent speeding incident that resulted in resisting arrest charge and various traffic violations. Coach Todd Bowles said Friday that he has "no idea" if Richardso... more

After losing a trio of defensive stars this year, the San Francisco 49ers have reason for optimism in the form of rejuvenated inside linebacker NaVorro Bowman. The three-time All-Pro entered the offseason as a weighty question mark after missing t... more

What a difference a year makes. Vernon Davis forfeited a $200,000 workout bonus and racked up a $70,000 fine last summer after skipping 49ers OTAs in an effort to develop his own brand . "Every decision I make is in the best interest of my brand... more

When Percy Harvin signed with the Buffalo Bills in March, he emphasized that he no longer wants to be considered strictly a slot receiver or gadget player . As it turns out, Harvin has more in mind than simply running more routes outside the number... more

Don't write off Matt Cassel just yet. Despite a rough offseason that had beat writers questioning his staying power , Cassel handled the first reps in team drills to open Buffalo Bills training camp on Friday.Cassel and Tyrod Taylor took turns wit... more

After shopping his services around the league in June, veteran wide receiver James Jones finally has a new team. Jones signed a one-year contract with the New York Giants, the team announced on Friday. The nine-year veteran chose the Giants' of... more

Things are looking up for the New York Giants' wide receivers. Odell Beckham and Victor Cruz both avoided the active/physically unable to perform list to open training camp.Beckham missed June practices with a hamstring tweak . Cruz is returning fr... more

The Cincinnati Bengals have gone 24 years without a postseason victory, the NFL's longest active streak of ignominy. If Marvin Lewis puts an end to that drought in emphatic fashion with a Super Bowl victory in February, he plans to honor owner Mike... more

Santonio Holmes is back on the football radar. The Super Bowl XLIII hero is one of three free-agent wide receivers working out for the Cincinnati Bengals on Thursday, reports NFL Media's Rand Getlin. Joining Holmes are David Nelson and Greg Litt... more

Sammy Watkins is itching for training camp to open on Wednesday after missing offseason practices following January surgery to repair a torn labrum in his hip. "I'll definitely be ready to practice," Watkins said Tuesday, via Matthew Fairburn of... more

Ryan Williams' ongoing knee problems have cost him a prime opportunity in the Dallas Cowboys' unsettled backfield. The team announced Williams' release on Tuesday after the running back underwent another knee procedure in June. A Cardinals... more

The Arizona Cardinals made history Monday, announcing the hiring of Jen Welter of the Indoor Football League as the NFL's first woman to hold a coaching position. A former collegiate rugby player who played 14 seasons of pro football -- mostly in t... more

If Adrian Peterson truly has his sights set on 2,500 rushing yards this season, Vikings coach Mike Zimmer made it clear Sunday that workload won't be an issue. Although running backs coach Kirby Wilson had told Around The NFL's Marc Sessler that... more

Former second-round pass rusher Da'Quan Bowers is receiving another chance with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Bucs announced Bowers' re-signing on Monday. The contract is for one year at the veteran's minimum, per NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport.... more

Teddy Bridgewater was ranked No. 23 among NFL starting quarterbacks in a recent ESPN.com poll compiled with input from 35 coaches and executives around the league. Raiders quarterback Derek Carr, who was thoroughly outplayed by Bridgewater last se... more

Cardinals Pro Bowl defensive end Calais Campbell recently asserted on NFL Total Access that Frank Gore was the biggest loss among the mass exodus of 49ers stars this past offseason. "He was the heart and soul of that offense -- and really that tea... more

One anonymous NFL head coach recently opined to ESPN.com's Mike Sando that Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles "looked lost " as a rookie. Among qualified passers, Bortles ranked dead-last in Total QBR and second-to-last in yards per attempt while... more

With All-Pro Gerald McCoy under contract as one of the NFL's highest-paid interior linemen , the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have turned their attention to their other defensive superstar. NFL Media's Rand Getlin reported on Thursday's edition of NFL Tota... more

Pro Bowl defensive end Calais Campbell recently anointed Arizona a "true contender " now that Carson Palmer is recovered from ACL surgery . Although defensive back Tyrann Mathieu echoes the sentiment that the Cardinals are "legitimate contenders,"... more

Returning from a torn Achilles tendon, Colts pass rusher Robert Mathis vowed last month to be back on the field by September . Once Mathis does return, coach Chuck Pagano expects him to regain the dominant form that has resulted in five Pro Bowl be... more

Click here for Gregg Rosenthal's breakdown of the top NFC training camp battles . 1. Jets quarterback: Geno Smith vs. faceplant Even with Chan Gailey favorite Ryan Fitzpatrick on board, the Jets have made it clear that this is Smith's job to l... more

The Seattle Seahawks are making progress on a new contract for middle linebacker Bobby Wagner after opening negotiations in early June . NFL Media's Rand Getlin reported on Wednesday's edition of NFL Total Access that talks have been "active" and... more

As a sensational NFL rookie in 2012, Robert Griffin III so dazzled opponents that former Giants defensive end Justin Tuck cursed the football gods for delivering a fixture in his nightmares . Now that Griffin has followed that Offensive Rookie of... more

On the heels of a rocky offseason , the Minnesota Vikings and Adrian Peterson have re-committed to a long-term partnership. The team announced Tuesday that the two sides have "mutually agreed" to restructure the final three years of Peterson's cont... more

The San Diego Chargers have stressed all offseason that their plan is to secure a new Philip Rivers contract that will keep the quarterback with the organization through the end of his career . The Bolts now hope that a new long-term deal will be i... more

Around The NFL crew will document the players we believe will be "Making the Leap" in 2015 . This could be a player emerging from no-name status to a quality starter. Or it could mean an excellent player jumping to superstar status.  The list cont... more

The Around The NFL crew will document the players we believe will be "Making the Leap" in 2015 . This could be a player emerging from no-name status to a quality starter. Or it could mean an excellent player jumping to superstar status.  The list... more

The Baltimore Ravens have secured the services of one of the NFL's top punters for the next half-decade. The team announced Thursday that Sam Koch has verbally agreed to a five-year contract extension. The deal will pay Koch $16.25 million in new m... more

The strange saga of Jason Pierre-Paul's fireworks incident took a serious turn on Wednesday. Pierre-Paul had his right index finger amputated, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport confirmed, according to a source informed of the situation. ESPN first... more

ROSENTHAL HANZUS SESSLER WESSELING PATRA ORR Wednesday night marks the end of our journey on the NFL Network's The Top 100 Players of 2015 countdown as players 10 through 1 will be revealed starting at 8 p.m. ET. We at Around T... more

The Around The NFL crew will document the players we believe will be "Making the Leap" in 2015 . This could be a player emerging from no-name status to a quality starter. Or it could mean an excellent player jumping to superstar status.  The list... more

Once a premier slot receiver for the Indianapolis Colts, Austin Collie is now starring in Canada after concussion concerns contributed to the demise of his NFL career. Collie hauled in five passes for 65 yards and a 26-yard touchdown in his Saturda... more

The Minnesota Vikings are a trendy offseason pick to make the playoffs in Teddy Bridgewater's second season. Bridgewater closed out his 2014 Pepsi NFL Rookie Of The Year campaign as Pro Football Focus' top-ranked quarterback for December, a motiva... more

Leading up to the 2015 NFL Draft, Oregon star Marcus Mariota was billed as a "project ," bound to struggle with the transition from a college spread offense to a pro style. After an impressive showing in offseason practices, though, the Tennessee... more

The Around The NFL crew will document the players we believe will be "Making the Leap" in 2015 . This could be a player emerging from no-name status to a quality starter. Or it could mean an excellent player jumping to superstar status.  The list... more

The NFL league office rang in the Fourth of July weekend with a host of suspensions on Thursday. With four key players banned to start the season, let's take a look at the fallout for each team. 1. Sheldon Richardson, Jets defensive lineman: Ove... more

Once upon a time, rookie holdouts were the scourge of pro football fan bases. After the rookie wage scale was introduced via the NFL's 2011 Collective Bargaining Agreement, however, the drama was removed from rookie contracts. Because football ne... more

Sam Barrington has been billed this year as the solution to the Green Bay Packers' inside linebacker woes of the Dom Capers era. One person not buying into the hype: Sam Barrington. "Everybody wants to seem to crown me for no reason ," Barrington... more

Rex Ryan is an excellent defensive coach, a master motivator and, by all accounts, a genuinely affable fellow. When the story of his coaching career is written, though, hubris will stand out as a dominant theme. From the day he stepped into the J... more

The Dallas Cowboys' brass spent the offseason lavishing praise on Darren McFadden after allowing DeMarco Murray to defect to Philadelphia. Beat writers have hyped Joseph Randle as a breakout candidate behind a dominant offensive line. With a mont... more

What constitutes a comeback? It's the NFL's most nebulous award, as most fans remain confused about the qualifications. Rob Gronkowski was an obvious candidate last year as a unanimous All-Pro returning from an ACL injury. Philip Rivers, by cont... more

The player to replace recently-released Pro Bowl guard Evan Mathis on the Eagles' offensive line is one who recently came out of retirement. John Moffitt, a former third-round draft pick of the Seahawks, signed with the Eagles on Monday, the team... more

With less than three weeks before the July 15 deadline, the Dallas Cowboys and Dez Bryant are back at the negotiating table. On Friday, the Cowboys had their first face-to-face meeting with Bryant's agents Tom Condon and Roc Nation's Kim Miale in n... more

New Falcons coach Dan Quinn discovered this week just how revered Herschel Walker is in Georgia. After Walker recently made his semi-annual declaration that he could still play in the NFL , Quinn quipped to a group of Atlanta businessmen, "Yeah, we... more

After missing all but one game last season, Adrian Peterson dropped 58 spots to No. 62 in NFL Network's The Top 100 Players of 2015 . Although the low ranking could be perceived as a slight, Peterson is actually excited about it . "There's not t... more

Seattle has been at the forefront of the NFL's business season, with the Seahawks futures of quarterback Russell Wilson, pass rushers Michael Bennett and Bruce Irvin questioned at one time or another over the past couple of months. Defensive end... more

Khalil Mack and Amari Cooper inspire plenty of confidence as Oakland Raiders building blocks and future stars . Can the same be said of 2013 first-round draft pick D.J. Hayden? Although Hayden closed out last year as a full-time player, he's not... more

The Dallas Cowboys declined cornerback Morris Claiborne's fifth-year option in May , but that doesn't mean the organization has given up on the former first-round draft pick. "I think Claiborne has a real good chance to surprise ," owner Jerry Jone... more

As an undrafted rookie, Philly Brown emerged as the speed element in the Panthers' offense last season, squeezing veteran Jason Avant off the roster in November. With a year of experience under his belt, Brown has changed his name and his game. N... more

Don't pencil rookie Breshad Perriman into the Baltimore Ravens' starting lineup just yet. Former special teamer Kamar Aiken and third-year wideout Marlon Brown each spent time opposite Steve Smith with the first-team offense during offseason practi... more

When Carson Palmer recently declared himself "100 percent " recovered from November knee surgery, the Cardinals put the rest of the NFC on notice that they will be a force to be reckoned with in 2015. "With him under center, we know we're a conten... more

When the appeal for Patriots quarterback Tom Brady's four-game suspension ended Tuesday evening , attorney Jeffrey Kessler conceded the timetable for a ruling was still up in the air. We now have reason to believe there will be no decision from NFL... more

After 10 years without a 1,000-yard receiver, the Jacksonville Jaguars boast a pair of strong candidates to accomplish the feat in 2015. Second-year wide receiver Allen Robinson is a prime breakout candidate on the heels of an "unbelievable "... more

The Denver Broncos were never going to trade Peyton Manning. Responding to a Tuesday report that the Broncos discussed Manning with the Houston Texans early this offseason, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport told the Rich Eisen Show Wednesday that th... more

For the third straight year , the Around The NFL crew will document the players we believe will be "Making the Leap" in 2015 . This could be a player emerging from no-name status to a quality starter. Or it could mean an excellent player jumping to... more

Is Chip Kelly's dalliance with Tim Tebow more than just an offseason lark? When Tebow first signed with Philadelphia back in April , the other Eagles quarterbacks downplayed the "competition." Mark Sanchez hinted that Tebow was merely a camp arm... more

Much like Randy Moss, Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans was a high school basketball star who entered the national radar as a college football phenom. Moss went on to set the NFL rookie record with 17 touchdowns in 1998 while Evans broke Tampa Ba... more

Ahmad Bradshaw's free-agent stock just took another blow. Bradshaw is facing a one-game suspension for violating the league's Policy and Program on Substances of Abuse, a league spokesperson confirmed to Around The NFL on Monday. The running back... more

Philadelphia Eagles tight end Zach Ertz provided a glimpse of his potential with a franchise-record 15 receptions in a December loss to the Washington Redskins last season. Darren Sproles, who has been training with Ertz this offseason, believes t... more

The Seahawks' "Legion of Boom " holds the unofficial title of the best secondary in football, but who owns the premier defensive front seven in the NFL? Star defensive end Fletcher Cox believes it's the Eagles. "Being honest, I think we should b... more

Terrelle Pryor is staying in Ohio. Pryor was claimed off waivers by the Cleveland Browns, the team announced Monday. When it became obvious that AJ McCarron was the favorite for backup duties in Cincinnati, the Bengals cut Pryor loose to allow h... more

In previewing the Bengals offense, we recently expressed the opinion that this year's outfit is loaded with more talent than any version since the 1988 Super Bowl squad. Coaching intern T.J. Houshmandzadeh draws a comparison instead to the 2005 A... more

Coach Bill O'Brien recently told NFL Media's Michael Silver that the Houston Texans expect to have pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney ready for the season opener in September. O'Brien's estimate might turn out to be overly conservative. Clowney has... more

When Wallace Gilberry raved earlier this month that Bengals second-year quarterback AJ McCarron was "doing awesome " with a revamped throwing motion, the veteran defensive end wasn't telling tales out of school. Now that the offseason has come to a... more

After the Buffalo Bills' initial offseason workouts last month, questions began surfacing about Matt Cassel's status as the default frontrunner in the quarterback competition. Now that offseason practices have wrapped up, those questions have shif... more

Plagued by injuries in 2014, Calvin Johnson was left off the All-Pro team for the first time in four years. While national pundits laud Antonio Brown as the NFL's best receiver and debate whether Dez Bryant should become the game's highest-paid wid... more

Any latent doubts the Dallas Cowboys' brass might have harbored about first-round pick Byron Jones as merely a Combine warrior have been quickly dismissed in offseason practices. Owner Jerry Jones is so excited about Jones that he gets "visions of... more

Is this the year the St. Louis Rams' steep investment in Tavon Austin finally pays off? The No. 8 overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft has been nothing short of a bust through two seasons, averaging less than 10.0 yards per catch as a gadget player... more

Taylor Mays wasn't out of work long. Released by the Minnesota Vikings on Tuesday , Mays is signing with the Detroit Lions, agent Fadde Mikhail confirmed to ESPN. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that Mays passed his physical with th... more

Terrelle Pryor has had a change of heart about a position switch. Waived by the Cincinnati Bengals on Thursday, Pryor wants to be considered as a wide receiver, agent Drew Rosenhaus told NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport. Before latching on with th... more

One of the NFL's best-kept secrets resides in Jacksonville. Because he missed last offseason with a hamstring injury and spent the final six weeks of his rookie season on injured reserve with a broken right foot, Jaguars second-year wide receiver A... more

Former Steelers cornerback Ike Taylor describes Cam Newton as a "mutant walking ," for the Panthers quarterback's freakish combination of size, athletic gifts and seemingly indestructible frame. Newton doesn't shy away from his exceptionalism, rece... more

The Cincinnati Bengals have gone 24 years without a postseason victory, the NFL's longest active drought. Since Andy Dalton assumed the starting quarterback role in 2011, the team has lost in the Wild Card round of the playoffs four consecutive yea... more

Bill Parcells had a name for scatbacks and smaller wide receivers in need of open space to excel: satellite players. If an offensive coordinator can scheme open-field opportunities for an elusive speed demon such as C.J. Spiller or Brandin Cooks, t... more

If the Denver Broncos have a concern on new coordinator Wade Phillips' talented defense, it's the health of inside linebackers Danny Trevathan and Brandon Marshall . Trevathan, a breakout star in 2013 , revealed Wednesday that he underwent kneecap... more

The Green Bay Packers utilize a statistical breakdown referred to as "the 16 principles of championship offense and defense ." Coach Mike McCarthy explained after the 2014 season that his offense "hit 13 of 16," coming just a play or two short on t... more

The Dallas Cowboys' response to Dez Bryant's threat to sit out regular-season action in a contract dispute: a collective yawn. "It doesn't concern me one bit ," coach Jason Garrett said Tuesday, via The Dallas Morning News. "Dez loves football. He... more

When Joseph Randle suggested last month that DeMarco Murray left "a lot of meat on the bone " last season, the implication was that the starting running back left yards on the field. Does the 2014 Offensive Player of the Year owe his award to the D... more

Speaking to reporters for the first time since releasing Evan Mathis last week , Eagles coach Chip Kelly revealed that representatives for the Pro Bowl guard had asked for his release on "multiple occasions" since the start of free agency in March.... more

If offseason hype and preseason production augured well for NFL success, Brandon Weeden would be entrenched as a franchise quarterback by now. The subject of breathless accolades every May through August , Weeden has inspired hope in yet another... more

Vernon Davis is coming off the worst season of his career, turning in one of the most disappointing performances of any 2013 Pro Bowl selection. After scoring twice in the season-opening victory at Dallas, Davis never found the end zone nor topped... more

Shortly after making Cam Newton one of the highest-paid quarterbacks in the league, the Carolina Panthers have rewarded linebacker Thomas Davis with a new contract. The Panthers announced Monday that they have signed Davis to a two-year extension.... more

Brandon Marshall revealed in March that he and Geno Smith initiated a "weird relationship " when the Jets quarterback was drafted out of West Virginia two years back. As it turns out, the two developed such a strong bond that Marshall hand-picked t... more

After deconstructing a mostly barren roster when he arrived in Oakland four years ago, general manager Reggie McKenzie began reconstructing a solid foundation with Derek Carr and Khalil Mack last offseason. The early returns out of Raiders OTAs... more

Demaryius Thomas isn't the only franchise-tagged wide receiver in danger of missing training camp if a long-term deal isn't signed by mid-July. Dallas Cowboys star Dez Bryant told NFL Media columnist Michael Silver on Friday that he might miss... more

Five-time All-Pro defensive tackle Kevin Williams has a new NFL home. The New Orleans Saints announced Friday that Williams has signed a one-year contract. Williams, 34, played all 16 games with the Seattle Seahawks last season, starting in place... more

Since the end of the 2014 season, the San Francisco 49ers have lost their three top coaches, a trio of team captains, 20 Pro Bowl selections and over 1,000 combined NFL starts.If a pro football team has ever seen a mass exodus to that extent, we are... more

With just five weeks before the July 15 deadline to sign franchise players to long-term extensions, the pressure is on the Denver Broncos to find common ground with wide receiver Demaryius Thomas. Peyton Manning is already upset that Thomas doesn't... more

After 15 months of contract tension, the Philadelphia Eagles are cutting ties with veteran guard Evan Mathis. The Eagles announced on Friday that they had released the two-time Pro Bowl selection. Seeking a new contract, Mathis was first placed o... more

NFL Network continued The Top 100 Players of 2015 countdown on Wednesday, revealing players 50 through 41 on the list. Our five takeaways from the latest episode: » The voters catch flak for being behind the curve, but they deserve credit for pl... more

Pop quiz: Which running back led the NFL in rushing yards and yards per carry in the second half of the 2014 season? It wasn't Offensive Player of the Year DeMarco Murray. It wasn't serial tackle-breaker Marshawn Lynch. It wasn't dual-threat Le'Ve... more

The NFC should be on red alert now that Carson Palmer has declared himself "100 percent " recovered from November ACL surgery. Since Palmer fully mastered Bruce Arians' offense in the middle of the 2013 season, he has been one of the league's most... more

Andre Johnson has languished in wide-receiver hell the past two years with the Texans, hauling in scattershot passes from a broken-down Matt Schaub, the journeyman Ryan Fitzpatrick and the undrafted and overmatched Case Keenum. It's understandabl... more

While franchise quarterback Philip Rivers and Pro Bowl safety Eric Weddle have dominated offseason headlines in San Diego, it's defensive end Corey Liuget who is the first of the trio to land a new contract with the Chargers. The Chargers and Liuge... more

By November of last season it appeared that Doug Martin's days with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were numbered . The new regime fielded phone calls at the trade deadline and had no plans to pick up the tailback's 2016 option. When former Falcons... more

Among the many mysteries of the NFL offseason, Peyton Manning's arm strength is perhaps the most critical to his team's success . When Week 1 arrives, will we see the MVP candidate from the first half of last season or the injury-ravaged liability... more

When coach Chip Kelly acknowledged late last month that the Philadelphia Eagles' starting job is open to competition , it appeared that Sam Bradford's surgically repaired knee might not be healthy enough to start the season opener. One beat writer... more

The Houston Texans are no longer the only NFL team without an offensive coordinator. Coach Bill O'Brien announced Monday that quarterbacks coach George Godsey has been promoted to offensive coordinator. O'Brien and Godsey ran the offense together... more

Second-year Cincinnati Bengals quarterback AJ McCarron recently noted that he's "slinging it " better this offseason than he ever has, thanks to a revamped throwing motion. Speaking with Mobile's WNSP on Friday, Defensive end Wallace Gilberry... more

Kirk Cousins averaged nearly 100 more passing yards per game than Robert Griffin III last season. He threw more touchdown passes in six games (10) than Griffin and Colt McCoy combined to toss in 14 games (eight). After throwing eight interceptions... more

While Sam Bradford is limited to 7-on-7 drills with the Eagles, his former team is warming up to new quarterback Nick Foles. "We love him ," wide receiver Kenny Britt said, via the Associated Press, after Rams OTAs opened on Thursday. "Great deep... more

Yet another key starter for the San Francisco 49ers is walking away from the game. Right tackle Anthony Davis surprisingly announced Friday that he won't play football in 2015. A statement released by Davis reads as follows: "After a few years... more

Thursday's edition of the Around The NFL Podcast offered a breakdown of offseason tropes that dominate football's news cycle this time of year. One of the most familiar clichés is the star player who has "never felt better" after an injury-plag... more

As part of our position rankings series last October, I rated the NFL's top 10 franchise cornerstones . It came as no surprise, at the time, that 2014 Defensive Player of the Year and MVP candidate J.J. Watt was the only non-quarterback on the list... more

Momma said there'd be days like this. The New England Patriots were reminded Thursday of the wide chasm between the Super Bowl MVP and the quarterback who will open the season under center while Tom Brady serves his four-game suspension. Against... more

Weakest groups: Offense Weakest groups: Defense Weakest safety group: Tampa Bay Buccaneers Lovie Smith has reunited with Chris Conte and Major Wright after watching the oft-injured safety duo get burned on a regular basis in Chicago. What... more

While Jimmy Graham is tearing up Seahawks offseason practices , the Saints are still exploring veteran options to fill the void in their offense. Former Bengals tight end Jermaine Gresham visited the Saints on Wednesday, coach Sean Payton confirme... more

Just five NFL teams passed for more net yards than the Philadelphia Eagles' duo of Mark Sanchez and Nick Foles last season. Whether it's Sanchez or Sam Bradford under center to open the season , that raw production is likely to decline in 2015.... more

A year ago this week Arizona Cardinals linebacker Daryl Washington was suspended for at least one year for violating the league's Policy and Program for Substances of Abuse. Washington's agent confirmed months ago that the 2012 Pro Bowler would ap... more

The Carolina Panthers are tying their future to Cam Newton. Newton signed a five-year extension that will keep him under team control through the 2020 season, the Panthers announced on Tuesday. The deal is worth $103.8 million with Newton receiving... more

Linebacker Mychal Kendricks admitted Tuesday that he "didn't know what to think" when the Philadelphia Eagles placed him on the trade block leading up to the 2015 NFL Draft. Entering the final year of his rookie contract, Kendricks has yet to disc... more

Two-time Pro Bowl tight end Vernon Davis is no longer the best player in his immediate family. Vernon might have the name, but little brother Vontae Davis had the game in 2014, turning in the best season by an Indianapolis Colts defensive back sinc... more

Don't throw dirt on Montee Ball's career just yet. Although 2014 breakout star C.J. Anderson entered offseason practices as the Denver Broncos' starting running back, Ball is splitting reps with the first-team offense. "I'm really looking forwar... more

At this time a year ago, Carolina Panthers wide receivers coach Ricky Proehl didn't have a single player under his watch who had caught a pass from Cam Newton in game action. Now? "Oh, my god! It's unbelievable a difference a year a makes," Proeh... more

Houston Texans coach Bill O'Brien is wrestling with one of pro football's time-tested maxims. If you have two quarterbacks, you don't have a quarterback . O'Brien told reporters Monday that he was no timetable for choosing between Ryan Mallett an... more

Pro Bowl safety Eric Weddle's decision to skip OTAs in search of a contract extension appears to have been in vain. The San Diego Chargers told Weddle they will not be discussing a new contract with him until after the 2015 season, NFL Media Insid... more

If the Washington Redskins were truly conflicted about exercising Robert Griffin III's fifth-year option early last month, they aren't going to admit it publicly. Team president Bruce Allen told reporters Monday that it was a "no-brainer" to pick... more

The Arizona Cardinals are rewarding defensive end Frostee Rucker for his fine work as an injury replacement for Darnell Dockett last season. The team has reached agreement with Rucker on a one-year extension , NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport rep... more

The Tennessee Titans have moved beyond flagrant motivational tactics in their effort to get enigmatic wideout Justin Hunter to reach his considerable potential . After finishing near the bottom of the league in catch rate for the second consecutiv... more

Upon being selected in the third round by the Atlanta Falcons, former Indiana star Tevin Coleman immediately predicted that he would win the starting running back job. Coach Dan Quinn confirmed that Coleman will have that opportunity. Citing... more

The AFC is there for the Colts' taking this year. Weakened by the departure of All-Pro cornerback Darrelle Revis in March, the Patriots are now set to play the first quarter of the season without Super Bowl MVP Tom Brady. Already shrouded in myster... more

Searching for a new team for the first time in his 13-year NFL career, Andre Johnson placed the Indianapolis Colts atop his list in early March. When his agent asked why, Johnson offered a concise response: "The quarterback." Teammates at the... more

The Cowboys might have come across as drunk on their own hype when freshly signed rookie La'el Collins declared this year's Dallas offensive line the "best in NFL history ." Whether it was aimed at Collins or not, Pro Bowl center Travis Frederick... more

Two years after missing the majority of the season with a Lisfranc injury, Broncos left tackle Ryan Clady will sit out Denver's entire 2015 campaign. Clady sustained a torn ACL in Wednesday's practice, and his season officially ended Friday when th... more

The New York Giants are exploring veteran options at left tackle after losing starter Will Beatty to a torn pectoral for at least five months. Free agent Jake Long, a four-time Pro Bowl selection with the Dolphins early in his injury-plagued caree... more

As it turns out, the Philadelphia Eagles traded their starting quarterback and a second-round draft pick in exchange for an injured quarterback who might be banished to the sidelines in Week 1. Although coach Chip Kelly noted that Sam Bradford is "... more

There's a misguided sense among a segment of amateur analysts and fantasy footballers that 2014 Offensive Rookie of the Year Odell Beckham is susceptible to a sophomore slump with defenses prepared to send double teams in waves this season. The... more

Adrian Peterson won't pick up the gauntlet thrown down by Vikings coach Mike Zimmer on Wednesday. After Zimmer made it clear that Peterson's only options are playing in Minnesota or retiring , the star running back gave ground in a statement releas... more

If Darren McFadden is poised for a career renaissance as Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and executive vice president Stephen Jones recently suggested , the former Raiders tailback is going to have to beat out Joseph Randle for Dallas' starting job. Aft... more

General manager Ruston Webster revealed to NFL Network early this month that the Titans had already begun tailoring their offense to Marcus Mariota before selecting the Oregon star in the 2015 NFL Draft. Now we know which offenses and quarterbacks... more

The Seattle Seahawks' star-studded secondary took on the look of a M*A*S*H unit after the Super Bowl, with Earl Thomas, Kam Chancellor and Richard Sherman all nursing significant injuries. If NFC rivals expected those injuries to linger into the re... more

Philip Rivers placed his San Diego future in question two months ago when he rejected the notion of signing a contract extension with the Chargers. Now there's reason to believe Rivers will stay with the organization under a new long-term deal, as... more

Blake Bortles' prime directive this year is to fix the mechanical flaw that was behind his regression from preseason standout to regular-season disappointment as a rookie. As we have pointed out on the Around The NFL Podcast numerous times, Bort... more

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will sport one of the NFL's youngest offenses this season, with Jameis Winston at quarterback, two rookie starters on the offensive line and second-year wideout sensation Mike Evans. Don't forget about running back Char... more

Last we heard from AJ McCarron, the former Alabama star was battling shoulder soreness that kept him sidelined through the majority of his rookie season. Finally healthy again, McCarron is eyeing the Cincinnati Bengals' backup job, buoyed by a rev... more

Prior to Robert Griffin III's January 2013 knee injury , he authored one of NFL history's most impressive rookie seasons , ushering in the Washington Redskins' fleeting "era of unbridled optimism ." Since collapsing in a heap at the 5-yard line of... more

New York Jets standout defensive end Sheldon Richardson is the latest NFL player embroiled in a controversy over his absence from nominally voluntary offseason practices. After skipping two sessions this week and returning to OTAs on Thursday,... more

If the Ravens want to keep the best guard duo in football, it's going to cost them. Four-time Pro Bowl right guard Marshal Yanda and road-grading left guard Kelechi Osemele are both entering contract years in Baltimore after paving the way for Just... more

The Indianapolis Colts' selection of University of Miami wide receiver Phillip Dorsett at No. 29 overall in the 2015 NFL Draft was widely panned as a head-scratching luxury pick . After rookie minicamp and a round of OTAs, the Colts couldn't be hap... more

It's natural to wonder how much the Pittsburgh Steelers defense will change without franchise legend Dick LeBeau calling the shots. To hear defensive end Cameron Heyward tell it, new coordinator Keith Butler won't deviate much from the 3-4 zone-bl... more

The Minnesota Vikings have given Around The NFL's Dan Hanzus a new storyline for his hyper-familiar tropes of minicamp season . Now that enigmatic wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson has a more firm grasp on the fundamentals of playing wide receive... more

Give the San Diego Chargers credit for standing their ground when Philip Rivers questioned his future with the organization. After making it clear leading up to the 2015 NFL Draft that Rivers would not be traded , the Chargers are renewing efforts... more

Considering the Green Bay Packers' success in drafting wide receivers, it should come as no surprise that third-round pick Ty Montgomery is already drawing raves after rookie camp. "Very impressed ," coach Mike McCarthy said of Montgomery, via FOX... more

The Houston Texans announced Thursday that offensive tackle Tyson Clabo has been released. Clabo, 33, started 101 games for the Falcons as a stalwart right tackle on four different playoff squads. After latching on with the Dolphins as an... more

Seahawks Cardinals 49ers Rams Around The NFL predicts the Week 1 starting lineups for all 32 teams, analyzing the potential impact of each rookie class. See every breakdown here . » The Cardinals didn't trade for Adrian Peterson, w... more

Seahawks Cardinals 49ers Rams Around The NFL predicts the Week 1 starting lineups for all 32 teams, analyzing the potential impact of each rookie class. See every breakdown here . » The Rams are taking a conservative approach to... more

Seahawks Cardinals 49ers Rams Around The NFL predicts the Week 1 starting lineups for all 32 teams, analyzing the potential impact of each rookie class. See every breakdown here . » The offensive line is the most glaring weak spot... more

Seahawks Cardinals 49ers Rams Around The NFL predicts the Week 1 starting lineups for all 32 teams, analyzing the potential impact of each rookie class. See every breakdown here . » The Niners let franchise icon Frank Gore walk out... more

We knew Geno Smith was the favorite to open the season as the New York Jets' starting quarterback. What we didn't know until now is that offensive coordinator Chan Gailey already views Smith as the Week 1 starter, barring injury. Gailey told repo... more

Prior to Carson Palmer's ACL tear early last November, the Cardinals boasted the NFL's best record at 8-1. Without Palmer available to steer Bruce Arians' offense, Arizona managed to go just 3-5 the rest of the way. In other words, Arians... more

Muhammad Wilkerson's push for a new contract shows no signs of abating any time soon. Wilkerson was absent from the start of New York Jets OTAs on Tuesday in Florham Park, as expected. "We're continuing to have dialogue sporadically," owner W... more

NFL owners approved the Competition Committee's proposal to shift extra points from the 2-yard line to the 15-yard line for the 2015 season. We're not convinced the rule change will have a dramatic impact on strategy. If NFL teams are indeed... more

Bruce Arians revealed in late March that he held Logan Thomas out of the Arizona Cardinals' playoff loss because he wasn't going to let his 2014 fourth-round draft pick fail on the big stage . Although Thomas is a raw developmental project unlikely... more

The San Diego Chargers are signing one of the few remaining players on Around The NFL's list of the Top 101 free agents . The Bolts have agreed to a one-year deal with former Rams right tackle Joseph Barksdale , the team announced Tuesday. Barksdal... more

The San Francisco 49ers announced the signing of first-round defensive end Arik Armstead. Armstead received a four-year contract worth $9.84 million fully guaranteed, including a $5.42 million signing bonus, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported.... more

The Kansas City Chiefs announced the signing of first-round cornerback Marcus Peters on Friday. A cousin of Marshawn Lynch, Peters was booted off Washington's team after a series of what he labeled "immature decisions." On the field, Peters has d... more

All-Pro linebacker NaVorro Bowman returned to practice late last month for the first time since shredding his knee in the 2013 NFC Championship Game. Judging by the tone of coach Jim Tomsula's comments on Friday, Bowman is already closing in o... more

Veteran Matt Cassel was widely viewed as the favorite to open the season as the Buffalo Bills' quarterback after splitting practice reps evenly with EJ Manuel and Tyrod Taylor last month. At least one prominent beat writer believes, however, that... more

Now that five-time Pro Bowl selection Frank Gore is headlining the Colts backfield , Vick Ballard seems like an afterthought in a loaded Indianapolis offense . An ACL injury and a torn Achilles have limited Ballard to one game over the past two sea... more

After acquiring Sam Bradford in March, Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie revealed that his organization once evaluated the former University of Oklahoma star as the best quarterback coming out of college since Peyton Manning in 1998. The Eagles weren't a... more

The members of Seattle's star-studded secondary were not the only Seahawks to go under the knife following their Super Bowl XLIX loss to the Patriots. Running back Robert Turbin underwent offseason hip surgery , reports Ross Jones of FOX Sports.... more

The Atlanta Falcons are adding veteran depth to an offensive line that has struggled the past couple of seasons. The Falcons have agreed to terms with former Washington Redskins right tackle Tyler Polumbus, per The Atlanta Journal-Constitution... more

The turn of the century St. Louis Rams gained more yards and scored more points over a three-year span than any team in NFL history, earning the "Greatest Show on Turf " moniker. In a nod to that legendary high-flying outfit, Colts offensive... more

After picking up a pair of offensive linemen and several defensive starters in free agency and the draft, the Arizona Cardinals are adding even more reinforcements from a previous draft class. By all accounts, 2013 first-round guard Jonathan Cooper... more

Colts Texans Jaguars Titans Around The NFL predicts the Week 1 starting lineups for all 32 teams, analyzing the potential impact of each rookie class. See every breakdown here . » The Titans turned down windfall offers to draft Marc... more

Colts Texans Jaguars Titans Around The NFL predicts the Week 1 starting lineups for all 32 teams, analyzing the potential impact of each rookie class. See every breakdown here . » Second-round rookie T.J. Yeldon will battle Denard... more

Colts Texans Jaguars Titans Around The NFL predicts the Week 1 starting lineups for all 32 teams, analyzing the potential impact of each rookie class. See every breakdown here . » It will be interesting to see how the playing time b... more

Colts Texans Jaguars Titans Around The NFL predicts the Week 1 starting lineups for all 32 teams, analyzing the potential impact of each rookie class. See every breakdown here . » Ryan Mallett and Brian Hoyer will split first-team r... more

If Tom Brady serves all four games of his suspension for violating the NFL policy on the integrity of the game , the Pittsburgh Steelers and Dallas Cowboys will be among the teams that benefit. The Super Bowl champions aren't nearly as daunting wit... more

The Baltimore Ravens have their entire 2015 draft class under contract. First-round wide receiver Breshad Perriman signed with the Ravens on Monday, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports, via agent Drew Rosenhaus. The deal is for $8.7 million over... more

Now that Brian Orakpo has defected to Nashville, the Washington Redskins are rebuilding their defense with two-time Pro Bowl selection Ryan Kerrigan as the centerpiece. The Redskins have opened negotiations with Kerrigan , who is entering the final... more

When New England traveled to Indianapolis in mid-November, Colts receiver Reggie Wayne praised the Patriots secondary as their best in 14 years of the rivalry. With the release of Kyle Arrington on Monday, the Patriots have now parted ways with a... more

The Browns are not abandoning the notion that Johnny Manziel still has a chance to emerge as the quarterback of the future in Cleveland. New offensive coordinator John DeFilippo used the words "great," "fantastic" and "awesome" to describe Manziel... more

Although he remains unsigned, veteran slot receiver Wes Welker is resolved to playing football in 2015. Welker recently told Mike Klis of KUSA in Denver that he has been cleared to continue his NFL career by one of the country's leading concussion... more

Owner Bob McNair hinted in late March that the Texans released Andre Johnson because the veteran receiver had lost a step . That wasn't the sole reason Houston was willing to part with a franchise icon. The coaching staff believes DeAndre Hopkins... more

Jacksonville Jaguars coach Gus Bradley confirmed Saturday that No. 3 overall pick Dante Fowler will miss the entire 2015 season after tearing his ACL in the first practice of rookie minicamp. Bradley noted that Fowler's sprit and mindset are "hard... more

Washington Redskins coach Jay Gruden recently assured Alfred Morris that the drafting of third-round bruiser Matt Jones won't affect the veteran running back's role this season. If general manager Scot McCloughan's assessment is correct, though, J... more

After watching owner Jerry Jones take a gamble on second-round pick Randy Gregory and pull out all of the stops to recruit offensive lineman La'el Collins, it appears the Dallas Cowboys are going all-in for a Super Bowl run before quarterback Tony R... more

The Dallas Cowboys' draft season came and went with the addition of three first-round talents and no running backs to replace DeMarco Murray. That doesn't mean the team's brass is concerned about the position. In fact, executive vice president Ste... more

Speaking at an event at Salem State on Thursday evening, Tom Brady assured the Massachusetts faithful that the New England Patriots' Super Bowl XLIX victory was "absolutely not" tainted in the wake of the Wells Report released this week . Asked by... more

Now that the Dolphins have traded for Kenny Stills, signed Greg Jennings and drafted DeVante Parker in the first round, Rishard Matthews feels like the odd man out in Miami's suddenly crowded wide receiver room. Matthews is now boycotting Dolphins... more

Former Washington Redskins tight end Fred Davis is free to sign with an NFL team after more than a year away from the game. Suspended indefinitely in February of 2014 for repeated violations of the league's substance abuse policy, Davis has been... more

The Philadelphia Eagles announced Thursday that they have agreed to terms with wide receiver Nelson Agholor, the No. 20 overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft. The deal is for four years and $9.377 million with a signing bonus of $5.1 million and $8.8... more

When the New York Jets selected defensive end Leonard Williams with the No. 6 overall pick in last week's draft, it immediately raised the question of Muhammad Wilkerson's future with the franchise. One of the NFL's most effective young defensive... more

Four weeks after Troy Polamalu retired , his direct competition for greatest safety of the 21st century followed suit. Former Baltimore Ravens safety Ed Reed announced his retirement on Wednesday. Take a look back at Ed Reed's career. A nine-tim... more

When the Ravens traded up three spots to draft tight end Maxx Williams at No. 55 overall, multiple reports out of Pittsburgh suggested the Steelers had their sights set on the former University of Minnesota star with the 56th pick. According to... more

The Arizona Cardinals are adding cornerback depth after failing to address the position in last week's draft. The team claimed Alfonzo Dennard off waivers from the New England Patriots, according to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, per a source info... more

When the Indianapolis Colts selected wide receiver Phillip Dorsett with the No. 29 overall pick in last week's draft, it was widely viewed as a "luxury" choice for an organization with the oldest defensive personnel in the league. After coach Chuck... more

The Chicago Bears have continued their recent trend of signing draft picks in expedited fashion. The team announced Wednesday that first-round wide receiver Kevin White and second-round defensive tackle Eddie Goldman have agreed to terms on four-ye... more

COLLATERAL DAMAGE COLLATERAL BENEFITS The NFL draft isn't bad news for all veterans. After Gregg Rosenthal highlighted 18 veterans hurt by the incoming rookie class , let's turn our attention to the players, coaches and fans who stand to... more

The Arizona Cardinals selected Gerald Christian with the No. 256 pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, making the Louisville tight end this year's "Mr. Irrelevant." It's fitting that a Louisville player earns the "honor" minutes before the Kentucky Derby's 1... more

Zac Stacy got his wish fulfilled on Saturday. The St. Louis Rams traded the frustrated tailback to the New York Jets in exchange for the 224th pick in the 2015 NFL Draft. Stacy requested a trade after the Rams drafted Georgia's Todd Gurley in th... more

CHICAGO -- Once the 2015 NFL Draft kicked off, it took all of 24 hours for the Tennessee Titans to solve their identity crisis. The NFL's most anonymous organization, lacking any semblance of recognizable stars since discarding former 2,000-yard ru... more

CHICAGO -- The Detroit Lions have found their backfield replacement for Reggie Bush. The Lions selected Nebraska running back Ameer Abdullah with the No. 54 overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft. Abdullah was named Senior Bowl MVP in January after... more

CHICAGO -- The Tennessee Titans are no longer the most anonymous team in the NFL. One day after turning down offers to nab potential franchise quarterback Marcus Mariota, the Titans selected former Oklahoma wide receiver Dorial Green-Beckham with... more

CHICAGO -- The local team might have just picked up the most charismatic player available in the 2015 NFL Draft. West Virginia wide receiver Kevin White, drafted by Chicago at No. 7 overall, was the highlight of the post-draft press conferences in... more

The New England Patriots don't have to worry about first-round draft pick Malcom Brown's confidence in filling the void left by five-time Pro Bowl selection and franchise icon Vince Wilfork. Asked if he had a message for Patriots fans, the former... more

A franchise quarterback is so uniquely valuable in the NFL, Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff once explained, that "the search for him consumes you ." It's that mindset -- and a convincing anecdote from Andy Reid -- that helped sway the Tita... more

CHICAGO -- New York Jets' No. 6 overall pick Leonard Williams' first NFL press conference was music to the ears of gridiron fans in the Big Apple. Asked about facing the Super Bowl champions twice a year in the AFC East, Williams quipped, "I hope... more

The Dallas Cowboys selected UConn cornerback Byron Jones with the No. 27 overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft. One of the most freakishly athletic prospects in the draft class, Jones blew the lid off the NFL Scouting Combine with a record-setting bro... more

The Cleveland Browns haven't abandoned hope of landing quarterback Sam Bradford in a trade. The Browns believe they have a good chance to trade for Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Sam Bradford, The MMQB's Peter King reported Thursday. ESPN's Ada... more

The San Francisco 49ers are bracing for another contract standoff with right guard Alex Boone. The five-year veteran will skip all of the team's voluntary activities in the final year of his contract, reports CSN Bay Area's Matt Maiocco. Boone w... more

Although the Saints' brass has spent the past couple of months vehemently denying the possibility of a Drew Brees trade, it still seems likely that New Orleans will target a quarterback in the 2015 NFL Draft. General manager Mickey Loomis conced... more

Two days into the offseason program, pass rusher Jerry Hughes has already caught the eye of new Buffalo Bills coach Rex Ryan. "This just in: I am really happy we signed Jerry Hughes back," Ryan said Wednesday, via Syracuse.com's Matthew Fairburn. "... more

Seahawks pass rusher Bruce Irvin's Seattle future is up in the air. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday night, via a source informed of the team's thinking, the Seahawks do not plan to exercise the fifth-year option on Irvin's rookie... more

CHICAGO -- Wisconsin star Melvin Gordon is joining Steven Jackson's cause to save the endangered running back . Speaking to reporters at Wednesday's NFL Play 60 Youth Football Clinic, Gordon cited Jackson's new website, savetherunningback.org .... more

Missouri pass-rusher Shane Ray was cited Monday morning for misdemeanor possession of up to 35 grams of marijuana by the Missouri State Highway Patrol just outside of Columbia. Ray was stopped for speeding at 5:46 a.m. and was also issued a citatio... more

NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport has identified the San Diego Chargers as one of three teams with the best chance to pull off a trade for the Tennessee Titans' No. 2 overall draft pick. To hear the Chargers tell it, however, frustrated franchise... more

Monday's draft buzz was a letdown for fans of blockbuster trades. For all of the speculation surrounding the futures of superstar running back Adrian Peterson and franchise quarterback Philip Rivers, their teams are not inclined to part with them... more

The Rams will keep defensive tackle Michael Brockers in St. Louis through at least 2016. Safety Mark Barron's option, however, won't be picked up. The team will exercise Brockers' fifth-year option , NFL Media's Albert Breer reported Monday. Broc... more

Odell Beckham was so transcendent as a rookie that he ended up saving the jobs of coach Tom Coughlin and general manager Jerry Reese while reversing the perception of Eli Manning as a player on the decline. Beckham wasn't alone. The first-round ta... more

After watching Ndamukong Suh defect to Miami, the Lions are working to ensure that another defensive star stays in Detroit. General manager Martin Mayhew revealed Friday, via the Detroit Free Press, that the team's brass has opened contract talks... more

The Kansas Chiefs will have two-time Pro Bowl nose tackle Dontari Poe under team control through at least 2016. The Chiefs exercised the fifth-year option on Poe's rookie contract, reported NFL Media's Albert Breer on Friday. Poe will earn $6.14... more

Dion Jordan's frustrating Miami Dolphins career appears to be taking another turn toward the peculiar. Just days after Jordan skipped the team's voluntary workout program , the Dolphins' brass sidestepped all questions about the former No. 3 overal... more

Hakeem Nicks will attempt to revitalize his stalled NFL career in Nashville. Nicks agreed to terms on a one-year deal with the Tennessee Titans, the team announced on Friday. Nicks was one of the NFL's best wide receivers when he helped carry the... more

When Pittsburgh Steelers All Pro running back Le'Veon Bell hyperextended his right knee in late December, the expectation was that he would be fully recovered in a few weeks. By late January, Bell told NFL Network that the knee was "close to 100... more

Kendall Wright will become one of the highest-paid players on the Tennessee Titans roster in 2016. The Titans plan to exercise the fifth-year option on Wright's rookie contract, reports Jim Wyatt of the Tennesseean. Wright will earn $7.3 million... more

Quarterbacks Wide Receivers Tight Ends Offensive Linemen By mid-November, the NFL's precocious rookie wide-receiver cast was already rivaling the vaunted 1996 class as the best in pro football history. While Odell Beckham, Mike Evans... more

For the second consecutive season , the AFC will be shut out of the NFL's Thanksgiving docket. All three Thanksgiving games will pit NFC foes against each other. While the Lions and Cowboys are locked in to the two early games by dint of traditio... more

The Baltimore Ravens have secured the long-term future of their best defensive back. The team announced Tuesday that cornerback Jimmy Smith has verbally agreed to a contract extension . NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports it's a four-year deal w... more

San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame offensive tackle Bob St. Clair died Monday night following a brief illness, the Pro Football Hall of Fame told NFL Media. He was 84 years old. Huge loss for the #49ersFamily . We will miss you Bob St. Clair #RIP Th... more

The Chargers are facing heightened offseason concerns about their defensive captain as well as their franchise quarterback . Whereas Philip Rivers has balked at the notion of signing a long-term deal to remain in San Diego, All-Pro safety Eric Wed... more

While Antonio Brown is skipping Steelers' voluntary conditioning in search of a new contract , the Bengals have no concerns about their own star wide receiver. Entering a contract year, A.J. Green was on hand Monday for the first day of Cincinnati'... more

The Washington Redskins have two weeks to decide whether to pick up the fifth-year option on Robert Griffin III's rookie contract for the 2016 season. General manager Scot McCloughan said last month that the organization was still discussing the op... more

The Denver Broncos' leading tackler is on the shelf this offseason. Linebacker Brandon Marshall underwent surgery on his right foot last month, reports Vic Lombardi of CBS Denver. Marshall is expected to be ready for training camp in late July.... more

When five-time Pro Bowl cornerback Ronde Barber retired from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers two years ago, he cited Steve Smith as the toughest wide receiver he was ever assigned to cover. It was high praise coming from a potential Hall of Famer who squ... more

The NFL's premier running back is officially back. The league announced Thursday that Adrian Peterson has been reinstated as an active NFL player and may participate in all scheduled activities with the Minnesota Vikings. The reinstatement became... more

For the fourth consecutive year, the Broncos will enter the season as the heavy favorites due to a stacked roster. They aren't without question marks, however, foremost of which is Peyton Manning's ability to recapture the form he showed in the fir... more

When the Saints traded All-Pro tight Jimmy Graham and invested heavily in the running game last month, we suggested they were taking on a new identity in 2015. Coach Sean Payton conceded Wednesday that the Saints will lean on the ground attack, bu... more

When the Eagles acquired linebacker Kiko Alonso in exchange for All-Pro running back LeSean McCoy early last month , critics were quick to charge Chip Kelly with valuing former Oregon Ducks players over established NFL stars. As it turns out, Alons... more

The Seahawks and Packers used the free agency period to put a stranglehold on the NFC North and NFC West, respectively. The Cowboys, on the other hand, have left the NFC East up for grabs after losing 2014 Offensive Player of the Year DeMarco Murray... more

Rex Ryan arrived in Buffalo to a familiar scene, staring at an imbalanced roster with most of the talent on the defensive side of the ball. After a March spending spree, however, the Bills are now one of the most fascinating teams in the league.... more

For the second time since releasing Andre Johnson early last month , the Houston Texans have bolstered their receiving corps. Two weeks after adding ex-Jaguars wideout Cecil Shorts, the Texans signed former Titans wide receiver Nate Washington, the... more

Following the surprising retirements of inside linebackers Patrick Willis and Chris Borland this offseason , the San Francisco 49ers understand the importance of a healthy NaVorro Bowman to their 2015 plans. The three-time All Pro missed the entir... more

If Andre Johnson has lost a step -- as Texans owner Bob McNair intimated last week -- the wide receiver's new coach hasn't seen it on game film. "You don't see a huge drop-off numbers-wise," coach Chuck Pagano said, via ESPN.com's Mike Wells. "Ma... more

Michael Strahan has a target on his back. With a combined seven sacks in Week 17, J.J. Watt and Justin Houston both threatened Strahan's single-season record (22.5) in 2014. That assault came just three years after Jared Allen notched 22 sacks by... more

Now that the overhauled offense in Buffalo is suddenly a marquee attraction , the Bills are turning their attention to the other side of the ball. General manager Doug Whaley expects to finalize a long-term contract extension for two-time Pro Bowl... more

The addition of linebacker Kiko Alonso won't signal the end of DeMeco Ryans' Philadelphia Eagles career. The team announced Monday that Ryans has signed a new contract that will keep him with the Eagles through 2016. The new deal is a two-year... more

Assigned the $12.823 million franchise tag early this month , Demaryius Thomas plans to treat this offseason differently. Thomas told ESPN.com's Jeff Legwold on Monday that he will not participate in Peyton Manning's annual Duke University passing... more

After losing Carson Palmer and Drew Stanton to knee injuries in separate games versus the Rams, Cardinals coach Bruce Arians was desperate for a quarterback entering the 2014 playoffs. Ryan Lindley set a record for ignominy, passing 229 times witho... more

With appearances in back-to-back Super Bowls and a young roster on the verge of a dynasty , Pete Carroll is sitting on top of the football coaching world alongside Bill Belichick. Having succeeded in Seattle after back-to-back four- and five-win se... more

On a recent edition of the Around The NFL Podcast , we debated whether Darren McFadden qualifies as one of free agency's biggest winners after landing with the Dallas Cowboys. Overly reliant on scheme and blocking to open holes, McFadden could... more

When the Houston Texans informed Andre Johnson that he would be an afterthought in Bill O'Brien's offense this season, the franchise icon laughed his way to the top of the division in Indianapolis. Texans owner Bob McNair told ESPN.com's Tania... more

Veteran cornerback Terence Newman is reuniting with Vikings coach Mike Zimmer. Newman has agreed to terms with Minnesota, the team announced on Friday. The deal is a one-year, $2.5 million contract with $750,000 in guarantees, NFL Media Insider Ian... more

When the Chicago Bears met with Jay Cutler early this month, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported that they left the room convinced they had to pick up the quarterback's $10 million option for 2016. Coach John Fox's commitment falls short of th... more

Around The NFL has generated Divisional Power Rankings going back to the 2012 offseason. For the third consecutive year, the NFC West came out on top. This year's vote was closer than ever, due in large part to the questions surrounding the San... more

If the Jacksonville Jaguars had their druthers, Blake Bortles would have spent the majority of his rookie season watching Chad Henne take lumps behind one of the NFL's least effective offensive line. Instead, Bortles showed enough early promise to... more

Speaking at the NFL Annual Meeting on Wednesday, coach Chip Kelly said he hopes newly acquired Sam Bradford will emerge as a legitimate franchise quarterback with the Philadelphia Eagles. Kelly didn't have to sell Bradford's franchise-altering... more

Jordy Nelson is on the mend after posting career highs in receptions and yards in his first All-Pro season. Coach Mike McCarthy revealed at the NFL Annual Meeting on Wednesday that Nelson underwent a "clean-up" hip surgery after the Pro Bowl. (An... more

Just four quarterbacks in NFL history have started at least 10 games in a season at Peyton Manning's age of 39. After watching injuries turn their quarterback into a shell of his five-time MVP self down the stretch last season, the Denver Broncos... more

The Minnesota Vikings are not ready to give up on Cordarrelle Patterson after a disappointing 2014 season . In a Tuesday interview with NBC Sports Radio, coach Mike Zimmer unequivocally shot down rumors that the team is looking to deal the 2013... more

When the Philadelphia Eagles sent shockwaves through the NFL by trading LeSean McCoy to Buffalo, the assumption was that coach Chip Kelly preferred a more decisive one-cut-and-go running back. Speaking at the NFL Annual Meeting on Tuesday, owner... more

The Denver Broncos' offense that broke records in 2013 has since lost Pro Bowl tight end Julius Thomas and slot machine Wes Welker, leaving a prime opportunity for 2014 second-round draft pick Cody Latimer. New coach Gary Kubiak made it clear Tuesd... more

Since the start of the new league year, Jimmy Graham has surprisingly landed in Seattle while Jordan Cameron ended up in Miami. It could have been the other way around for the two Pro Bowl tight ends. The newly aggressive Dolphins finished secon... more

Persephone has ushered in the madness of spring , signaling the unofficial start of the NFL's period of insane offseason hype . Not long after Packers coach Mike McCarthy touted his offense's ceiling as the best pro football has seen , Steelers co... more

Michael Crabtree is the highest-ranked player remaining on Around The NFL's list of the Top 101 free agents . The erstwhile San Francisco 49ers wide receiver has made just one visit , to the Miami Dolphins a week ago. So why is Crabtree still... more

NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported last week that the San Diego Chargers have no intention of trading Philip Rivers this offseason. General manager Tom Telesco confirmed that stance Monday, via ESPN.com's Eric Williams, at the NFL Annual Meet... more

While other starting quarterbacks from the 2012 NFL Draft class have jumpstarted long-term contract discussions this offseason , Andrew Luck will have to wait another year for a lucrative extension. Owner Jim Irsay made it clear Monday that there... more

Adrian Peterson's agent, Ben Dogra, is turning up the heat on the Minnesota Vikings. Now Dogra is echoing a recent report from NFL Media's Albert Breer that Peterson still wants out of Minnesota . Dogra emphasized Monday, via NFL Media Insider Ia... more

The Miami Dolphins plan to make a big financial investment in Ryan Tannehill, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract. Vice president of football operations Mike Tannenbaum made it clear at the NFL Annual Meeting that the organization... more

Michael Sam and Brady Quinn might have been the headliners at the NFL's inaugural Veteran Combine, but it was Nathan Slaughter who was the first to land a job. The Arizona Cardinals signed Slaughter on Monday, the team announced. A former West T... more

Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame player Chuck Bednarik passed away Saturday morning following a brief illness at an assisted living facility in Richland, Pennsylvania, the team announced. He was 89. "With the passing of Chuck Bednarik, the Eagles a... more

Will he stay or will he go now ? The second week of free agency was dominated by a player three years from reaching the open market. Adrian Peterson's camp and the Vikings brass spent the week posturing. Peterson still wants out of Minnesota ,... more

Less than two years after replacing long-time owner Bud Adams as Tennessee Titans president and CEO, Tommy Smith is retiring from those roles. The team made the announcement on Friday, explaining that Smith will now focus on his career as president... more

The Vikings continue to present a unified front on Adrian Peterson's future, reiterating their intention to keep him in Minnesota. Peterson, on the other hand, does not appear to be warming up to the organization after expressing his uneasiness a... more

When the Saints surprisingly traded away Jimmy Graham last week, New Orleans faithful were left wondering if their team's Super Bowl window was closing. When two-time Pro Bowl guard Ben Grubbs and promising young wideout Kenny Stills were also d... more

The Vikings recently informed Adrian Peterson that he will not be released this offseason, leaving a trade as the star running back's lone avenue out of Minnesota. Reports persist that Peterson remains unhappy with the organization even after mee... more

Ten days into the new league year, free agency is grinding to a halt. With Dwayne Bowe landing in Cleveland and Michael Crabtree visiting Miami, the marquee names will soon be off the board entirely. Teams such as the Colts and Bills have done well... more

The Bills have added a third established playmaker to their offense in the span of three weeks. The Dolphins have elected not to match Buffalo's offer sheet for tight end Charles Clay, the Bills announced Thursday. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport re... more

Two weeks after re-signing Brandon Flowers, the San Diego Chargers are adding more help for their secondary. The Bolts signed former New Orleans Saints cornerback Patrick Robinson to a one-year contract worth up to $3 million , NFL Media Insider Ia... more

Free-agent tight end Jermaine Gresham's decision on a new team has been put on hold. Gresham is scheduled for surgery on Thurdsay after being diagnosed with a herniated disc , NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports, via a source informed of the pla... more

Philip Rivers plans to play out his contract this season, but that doesn't mean the San Diego Chargers will explore a trade involving their quarterback. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday on NFL Total Access that the Chargers have... more

The Buccaneers bowed out of the chase for Greg Hardy on Wednesday, leaving Dallas as the free-agent pass rusher's lone option. Hardy signed a one-year contract with the Cowboys shortly thereafter, the team announced. It's a highly incentive-laden d... more

The Miami Dolphins aren't finished overhauling their wide receiver corps. Michael Crabtree is visiting the Dolphins on Wednesday, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports, via sources informed of the former San Francisco 49ers receiver's situation.... more

General manager Tom Telesco emphasized after the 2014 season that the Chargers would "definitely " work on a new deal for Philip Rivers with the intention of keeping the franchise quarterback in San Diego for the rest of his career. Rivers, on the... more

Now that Reggie Bush has chosen to sign with the San Francisco 49ers, the New England Patriots have acquired another former New Orleans Saints running back to function as a third-down specialist. The Patriots signed tailback Travaris Cadet, the te... more

The Seattle future of Seahawks pass rusher Michael Bennett came into question on Tuesday. Although one report suggested Bennett was angling for a new contract and a trade to Atlanta, a Seahawks source confirmed to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport th... more

The Philadelphia Eagles weren't the only team pursuing Sam Bradford when the new league year kicked off last week. NFL Media's Charley Casserly reported on Monday's edition of NFL AM that the Cleveland Browns offered a first-round draft pick for... more

New Buffalo Bills coach Rex Ryan has followed through on his January vow to explore all avenues for quarterbacks. In addition to trading for veteran Matt Cassel, the Bills signed former Ravens backup Tyrod Taylor as a zone-read possibility . The... more

After watching 2014 starters Chris Culliver and Perrish Cox leave for richer offers, the San Francisco 49ers added a cornerback of their own. The 49ers announced Saturday that they have signed former Chargers cornerback Shareece Wright to a one-yea... more

The frenzy has slowed to a trickle this weekend. After a dizzying week of blockbuster trades and high-octane signings, the free agent market has nearly been picked clean. Keep in mind, though, that key Super Bowl contributors such as Malcolm Butler... more

The Tennessee Titans continue to upgrade a defense that has finished in the bottom five in points allowed two of the past three years. The team agreed to terms with former San Francisco 49ers cornerback Perrish Cox on a three-year, $15 million cont... more

The Ravens are upgrading a secondary that was the defense's primary weakness late last season. Baltimore has agreed to terms with former Houston Texans safety Kendrick Lewis on a three-year contract, the team announced Saturday. Lewis, 26, starte... more

The Minnesota Vikings' trade for Mike Wallace  on Friday has cost Greg Jennings his roster spot. The team announced Saturday that Jennings has been released. It's a move that was fully expected, even if the trade expedited the process. Jennings'... more

For most of this week it appeared that no player on the New Orleans Saints' constantly churning roster was safe from the trading block, including star cornerback Keenan Lewis. Unhappy with the direction of the team, Lewis said Tuesday that he want... more

The New Orleans Saints rang in the new league year with a pyrotechnic display rivaling that of the Philadelphia Eagles for seismic shock and awe . The stupefying Jimmy Graham blockbuster sent shockwaves through the fan base. Has the Super Bowl wind... more

Charles Johnson is no longer "far and away " the Minnesota Vikings' best wide receiver. The Miami Dolphins traded Mike Wallace and a seventh-round draft pick to the Vikings in exchange for a fifth-round pick, the team announced . In other words,... more

The New England Patriots are zeroing in on a replacement for passing-down back Shane Vereen, who defected to the New York Giants earlier this week. Reggie Bush is visiting the Patriots, reports NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, via a source informed... more

The Oakland Raiders have reunited former Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder with offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave. Ponder signed with the Raiders on Friday, the team announced. Terms were not disclosed.  The No. 12 overall pick in the 2011 N... more

After nine years with Drew Brees' high-flying aerial attack as the face of the franchise, the New Orleans Saints are retooling their offense around the ground game. On the same day the Saints traded deep-threat wideout Kenny Stills to the Dolphins... more

The St. Louis Rams continue to build their roster around a frightening defensive line. Coach Jeff Fisher announced at Friday's Nick Foles news conference that the team has signed former Detroit Lions defensive tackle Nick Fairley. It's a one-year,... more

Chip Kelly evaluated Frank Gore, DeMarco Murray and Ryan Mathews as the top three running backs in a strong free-agent class. After swinging and missing on Gore, the Eagles coach left an expectant Mathews twisting in the wind once he discovered... more

Cleveland has lost another high-caliber athlete to South Beach. Just hours after Jordan Cameron reportedly agreed to a two-year, $15 million contract to stay with the Browns, the Dolphins announced that they signed the 2013 Pro Bowl tight end. NFL... more

The Washington Redskins aren't finished beefing up their defensive line after signing Stephen Paea and Ricky Jean Francois over the past week. Former Broncos nose tackle Terrance Knighton is expected to sign a one-year, $4 million contract with th... more

Eighteen months after trading a first-round draft pick for Trent Richardson, the Indianapolis Colts have thrown in the towel on the sluggish running back. The team announced Thursday that they have waived Richardson. The No. 3 overall selection i... more

Veteran safety Antrel Rolle is headed to Chicago after five years with the New York Giants. The Bears announced Wednesday that Rolle has signed a three-year contract. The deal is worth $11.25 million with $5 million in guarantees, NFL Media Insider... more

DeMarco Murray is raising the stakes in his game of contract chicken with Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones. The free-agent running back is visiting the division-rival Eagles on Thursday, reports NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, per a source informe... more

For the second time in his career, Eddie Royal will be catching passes from Jay Cutler. Royal is signing with the Chicago Bears, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports, via a source informed of the wide receiver's thinking. As a hotshot rookie in... more

The number one criterion for being an NFL genius, according to Bill Belichick's right-hand man Ernie Adams in David Halberstam's The Education of a Coach , is having a great quarterback. Chip Kelly's press conference and the Colts' signings of a p... more

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are tacitly acknowledging the missteps of general manager Jason Licht's first attempt at free agency last offseason. After jettisoning quarterback Josh McCown in February, the Buccaneers announced the releases of left tackl... more

Andre Johnson is joining former Miami Hurricanes teammate Frank Gore in Indianapolis. The Colts announced the signing of Johnson on Wednesday. The seven-time Pro Bowl wide receiver will receive $21 million over three years, NFL Media Insider Ian... more

A third unexpected retirement announcement in the last 24 hours makes for the perfect ending to one of the craziest days in NFL offseason history. Free agent pass rusher Jason Worilds released a statement through his player representative, Jason... more