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Dan Hanzus
Dan Hanzus is a writer for Around the NFL, providing non-stop analysis and opinions on all things football. Previous stops include The Journal News in Westchester, N.Y., and MLB.com before joining NFL Media in 2010. Hanzus hosts the award-winning "Around the League Podcast" with an aplomb reminiscent of a young Chris Berman.
Tony Romo isn't playing at the same level he was before he suffered his back injury last month. He's actually been better. Since returning to the lineup after a one-week absence, the Cowboys quarterback has completed 38 of 53 passes for 767 yards... more
Colin Kaepernick remains something of a football tease. The 49ers quarterback can do things most contemporaries couldn't dream of one moment, only to make a head-scratching mistake the next. Inconsistency has been part of the Kaepernick experience since... more
Calvin Johnson hasn't been himself this season. Is it fair to wonder if we're seeing the start of a decline for the great wide receiver? The 29-year-old Detroit Lions star is on pace to finish with his lowest level of production since his rookie season.... more
Johnny Manziel's unfortunate alleged late-night encounter with a Browns fan is unlikely to cost him playing time if that opportunity ever arrives in 2014. Manziel and his associates were involved in an incident early Saturday morning in which Sandusky,... more
Aaron Rodgers sat at a podium TCF Bank Stadium on Sunday and took questions about the Packers' win over the Vikings . In between answers, the star quarterback took swigs from a 20-ounce bottle of Crush grape soda. Conspiracy mongers -- former Packers... more
The Denver Broncos have run out of patience in Brandon McManus. McManus was waived and will be replaced by veteran kicker Connor Barth, the team announced Tuesday. McManus struggled with consistency after taking over for Matt Prater, who was... more
Rex Ryan can't find any answers at quarterback , but he has as plan for who will play the position next Monday against the Dolphins. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday that the Jets plan to start Michael Vick in Week 13 if he's healthy... more
Washington Redskins coach Jay Gruden told reporters on Monday the team's "intent" was to start Robert Griffin III on Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts. Schein: Nine lessons learned Adam Schein says Week 12 provided clarity on many teams and... more
Is Katy Perry elite? In terms of pop superstardom, most definitely . When you have 10 No. 1 hits in a seven-year span, you are Aaron Rodgers-level elite in your chosen field. And in what counts as a ringing victory in her ongoing death-star battle with... more
The Philadelphia Eagles kept the pressure on the Dallas Cowboys in the NFC East with an easy 43-24 win over the Tennessee Titans on Sunday. Our takeaways: 1. The Eagles proved what most expected on Sunday: The Titans don't have the horses to keep... more
The Indianapolis Colts overcame a slow start to take care of business in a 23-3 home win over the lowly Jacksonville Jaguars. Our takeaways: 1. The Colts' pass protection was a mess early on, allowing the Jaguars to get to Andrew Luck for four... more
Welcome to the Around The NFL End Around, a weekly look back at the world of the National Football League. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good week for ... 1. Daaaaa Raiiiiidahs: The Silver & Black ended a 52-week winless streak in style,... more
"This is your shot, don't blow it! Full tilt!" It's hard to imagine the pressure our Undrafted heroes are under as they arrive at the Super Regional Combine in Detroit. In the first four episodes, we watch as the six subjects of the documentary... more
The Oakland Raiders have won just one football game in 2014. Don't assume that quality of play will cost Reggie McKenzie his job. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport spoke Thursday with Raiders owner Mark Davis, who said he's happy with how Oakland's... more
Mike Evans had a game to remember in Week 11, torching the Washington Redskins for 209 yards and two touchdowns in a 27-7 win at FedEx Field. It's the type of performance that opens eyes and wins Offensive Rookie Of The Year awards . Evans is on a... more
Marshawn Lynch's decision to avoid the media has come at a very steep price. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday that Lynch has been fined $50,000 for violating the NFL Media Policy , according to NFL Vice President of Football... more
Tiki Barber wiggled his way back into the 24-hour news cycle this week. As you might have guessed, he did so by saying something critical about the New York Giants. Barber, whom Tom Coughlin helped mold into one of the best running backs in football... more
To weave his way through his latest controversy in Washington, Robert Griffin III went full-on Belichick. The Patriots coach famously shut out the media after a blowout loss to the Chiefs with repeated proclamations of, "We're on to Cincinnati ."... more
A powerful pre-winter storm-in has led to uncertainty for the Buffalo Bills as they prepare for a Week 12 home date against the New York Jets. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday that the league is working with the Bills to determine the... more
The Cleveland Browns have received very good news on linebacker Jabaal Sheard. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport first reported Wednesday that a second opinion has revealed that Sheard does not need surgery on his injured foot, according to a source who... more
The Dallas Cowboys couldn't have asked for better timing for their bye week. Their Week 11 respite allowed quarterback Tony Romo some much-needed downtime to further recover from two small fractures in his lower back. Cowboys owner/general manager... more
Since entering the league in 2005, Frank Gore has been the one constant for the San Francisco 49ers. In good times and bad, The Inconvenient Truth has been there to move the chains and grind out wins . Gore finds himself at a professional crossroads in... more
Golden Tate has taken his game to another level in his first season with the Detroit Lions. He has a theory on why his former team, the Seahawks, has struggled in its passing game in 2014. "Their problem," Tate said last week, via mlive.com . "Now they... more
Jonas Gray has joined Le'Veon Bell in the Week 11 200-yard club. The Patriots running back was initially credited with 199 yards on 38 carries in Sunday's night's 42-20 win over the Colts. On Tuesday, a notable change was made to the box score: Stat... more
LeGarrette Blount's Monday night walk-off has cost him his job. The Pittsburgh Steelers announced Tuesday that Blount has been released. The roster move comes one day after the running back reportedly�left the field before the end of Monday's win... more
The Steelers can thank Le'Veon Bell for preventing a Monday night disaster in Nashville. A career day for the running back lifted Pittsburgh to a come-from-behind 27-24 win over the Titans. Our takeaways: 1. This was Bell's coming out party as a... more
It was one of the best touchdown celebrations of the year, and Anthony Castonzo learned it from his Super Nintendo. Who said video games are bad for the youth of America? After hauling in a 1-yard touchdown pass from Andrew Luck on Sunday night , the... more
Rob Gronkowski thought Sergio Brown was talking too much on Sunday night , so he blocked the Colts safety into another dimension. The Patriots tight end later told NBC that Brown's incessant "yappin'" during the Patriots' 42-20 win led to his decision... more
Another Washington Redskins coach appears to be running low on patience for Robert Griffin III. Jay Gruden was blunt in his assessment of his starting quarterback one day after Griffin struggled mightily in Washington's 27-7 home loss to the... more
Antone Smith is done for the season. The Atlanta Falcons announced Monday that the running back has been placed on injured reserve with a broken leg. Smith suffered the injury during Sunday's 19-17 win over the Carolina Panthers. Smith, 29, was a... more
The Arizona Cardinals are an NFL-best 9-1 after a 14-6 win over the Detroit Lions on Sunday at University of Phoenix Stadium. Our takeaways: 1. The Cardinals no longer have the services of Carson Palmer, but they still have their fierce defense.... more
The Atlanta Falcons aren't dead -- far from it. Mike Smith's team moved into a first-place tie in the lumpy NFC South with a 19-17 win over the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. Our takeaways: 1. Give the Falcons credit: They could have folded after... more
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers showed some life Sunday, riding a monster day from rookie Mike Evans to a 27-7 win over the Washington Redskins. Our takeaways: 1. Meet Mike Evans, your new frontrunner for Offensive Rookie of the Year. The wide receiver... more
The San Diego Chargers have given up on the idea of getting Jason Verrett back this season. The team announced Saturday that Verrett has been placed on injured reserve. The first-round pick had been attempting to rehab his left shoulder, which has... more
The Kansas City Chiefs haven't made any progress in contract talks with Justin Houston, but they got something done with another member of their defensive line. The team announced Saturday that it signed�Allen Bailey to a contract extension. NFL... more
Aldon Smith is cleared for a return to game action for the San Francisco 49ers. The team announced Saturday that Smith has been added to the 53-man roster , making him eligible to play in San Francisco's Week 11 matchup against the New York Giants. In... more
Will Jason Pierre-Paul be a member of the New York Giants beyond this season? JPP sounds indifferent on the issue. "Hey, it is what it is," Pierre-Paul said of his impending free-agent status, according to the New York Post . "If I'm here, I'm here.... more
Johnny Manziel said in February that if the Houston Texans passed on him with the No. 1 overall pick it would be "the worst decision they've ever made ." Of course, the Texans did pass on the former Texas A&M star, instead picking South Carolina phenom... more
Arian Foster has gone from long shot to no shot. The Houston Texans announced Saturday that Foster will not play Sunday against the Cleveland Browns. The following day, the team officially declared Foster inactive. The star running back has a groin... more
The NFL told Jimmy Graham he's no longer allowed to dunk over the goalpost after scoring a touchdown. His quest to find a replacement celebration remains a work in progress after some illegal touching by Saints fans. Following a scoring grab against... more
Peyton Hillis is done for 2014. The Giants announced Saturday that the veteran running back, who suffered a concussion in Week 10's loss to the Seahawks, has been placed on season-ending injured reserve . This is the second straight year that... more
The Steve Smith redemption song has skipped in recent weeks. The veteran wide receiver began the second chapter of his distinguished NFL career in wildly successful fashion, emerging immediately as Joe Flacco's favorite target with the Ravens. Smith... more
Darrelle Revis used to sit in defensive meetings and listen to coaches plan on how to contain Rob Gronkowski. Scheming a way to completely neutralize the Patriots' dynamic tight end was silly talk. The two stars are now teammates, and Gronkowski's play... more
The Miami Dolphins took care of business Thursday night, beating the Buffalo Bills in what could be seen as a November playoff game for the two AFC East teams. It wasn't a perfect performance. Bill Lazor's offense had just three points well into the... more
Welcome to the Around The NFL End Around, a weekly look back at the world of the National Football League. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good week for ... 1. Aaron Rodgers: This might sound crazy, but has anyone ever played the... more
Sunday started out like any other game day for Carson Palmer. It ended with a torn ACL and a long night in which he�"cried like a baby." Palmer was wired for sound during Sunday's fateful game against the Rams. The footage, which can be seen�on NFL... more
The Green Bay Packers were unstoppable against the Chicago Bears on Sunday night . The presence of Aaron Rodgers is the main reason why, but it's the quarterback's supporting cast that makes Green Bay a nightmare matchup for opposing defensive... more
The Buffalo Bills have the worst red-zone offense in football, scoring touchdowns on just 41.2 percent of their trips inside the opposition's 20-yard line. Rookie wide receiver Sammy Watkins has quickly emerged as a rising star, but the Bills don't have... more
Tony Romo enjoyed great success in his return to the starting lineup on Sunday, throwing for 246 yards and three touchdowns in a blowout win over the Jacksonville Jaguars in London . Tony�Romo An even greater success for Romo was how he came... more
Josh Brent is on the precipice of a return to the Cowboys. Jason Garrett announced Tuesday that Brent has been activated from the team's reserve/suspended list. Dallas made room for Brent by waiving linebacker Tim Dobbins. The Cowboys were facing... more
Justin Bieber is pretty much the worst . Most of us are plugged into this reality by now, though the Pittsburgh Steelers appear to be a notable exception. The Canadian pop star visited a team worship service on Saturday night, posing with... more
Cam Newton took the beating of his football life on Monday night, getting�sacked nine times in an embarrassing blowout loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Newton clearly wasn't moving well as the game progressed, making Carolina Panthers coach Ron... more
As San Francisco�welcomes back Aldon Smith , it waves goodbye to Patrick Willis. The 49ers placed Willis on season-ending injured reserve. Willis hasn't appeared in a game since he injured the toe in a�Week 6 win over the St. Louis Rams. NFL... more
Brock Osweiler found himself in the eye of the social media storm on Sunday . The Denver Broncos were comfortably ahead of the Oakland Raiders when an excited Osweiler removed his baseball cap, grabbed his helmet and turned to run to the huddle. His... more
The Philadelphia Eagles had an easy time of it on Monday night at the Linc, cruising to a 45-21 win over the outclassed Carolina Panthers. Our takeaways: 1. So far, so good for Mark Sanchez. The quarterback threw for 334 yards and two touchdowns and... more
Austin Seferian-Jenkins celebrated a touchdown reception Sunday by doing the Captain Morgan pose, complete with one cleat resting on the football. This is not allowed. Seferian-Jenkins used the football as a prop in his celebration, which warrants a... more
Carson Palmer knew the moment it happened. His season was over. The Arizona Cardinals are 8-1 and in great position to make a run at the Super Bowl. Palmer won't get to play a role after suffering a torn ACL in Sunday's win against the St. Louis... more
Mike Mitchell did his best Troy Polamalu impression on Sunday, and the Jets did not appreciate it. In the final seconds of New York's upset 20-13 win at the Meadowlands, Mitchell attempted to leap over the line of scrimmage while the Jets were in their... more
The Arizona Cardinals will go the rest of the way without Carson Palmer. Cardinals coach Bruce Arians confirmed Monday that Palmer tore his ACL in Sunday's win over the St. Louis Rams. He will be placed on season-ending injured reserve, with the... more
Brock Osweiler has dutifully served as Peyton Manning's backup for three years. In that time, Osweiler has thrown all of 26 passes, which truthfully, feels a touch on the high side considering Manning's unquenchable thirst for PT. But on Sunday, a hope... more
A matchup between the mighty Denver Broncos and the winless Oakland Raiders ended exactly how you might expect. Our takeaways from a 41-17 Broncos win on Sunday: 1. Oakland's defense gave Peyton Manning fits early on, forcing the quarterback into... more
The New York Jets might not have a shot at the playoffs, but they still have some pride. Rex Ryan's defense cooled off Ben Roethlisberger in a 20-13 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Our takeaways: 1. Steelers fans flooded MetLife Stadium... more
Welcome to the Around The NFL End Around, a weekly look back at the world of the National Football League. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good week for ... 1. Ben Roethlisberger: Fantasy owners bow at the feet of Big Ben. Twelve touchdowns... more
In which our six underdog heroes wait for a phone call that may never come ... The best title for the third episode of Undrafted might be "The Waiting." I've enjoyed the faux Explosions In The Sky score of NFL Network's latest original series, but... more
More aircraft flew over New York Jets practice Thursday. Rex Ryan was the one delivering the message this time. One day after a plane with a "Fire John Idzik" banner buzzed over the Jets' Florham Park facility, Ryan arranged for a remote-controlled toy... more
Jadeveon Clowney was ill this weekend . But that wasn't the only thing that kept the first overall pick out of the lineup in Week 9 . "It was pretty much both, the knee and I was sick," Clowney revealed on Wednesday, according to the Houston... more
A scorching 5-1 start has been followed by a three-game losing streak for the San Diego Chargers. It's not the optimal way to reach a bye week, but Philip Rivers believes his team has the experience to deal with this type of adversity. "We'll find... more
Adrian Peterson wants to return to the football field as soon as possible. He'll need leniency from the NFL -- done in a timely fashion -- to make it happen. Peterson's lawyer, Rusty Hardin, said Wednesday on PFT Live he hopes the NFL makes a swift... more
We've long professed our love for Brett Favre's cameo in the blockbuster 90s comedy There's Something About Mary . I mean, how can you not take immense joy out of a performance so gloriously wooden, Favre is unable to even walk in an authentic manner?... more
Mark Sanchez says he's grown from his experiences with the New York Jets and believes he's become a "better version" of himself since joining the Philadelphia Eagles. "There's a ton of experience in there in those five years and the most important... more
The Philadelphia Eagles have seen the last of Todd Herremans this season. The Philadelphia Inquirer reported Tuesday that Herremans will undergo surgery to repair a torn biceps in his left arm, according to an NFL source. The starting guard was... more
Adrian Peterson resolved his legal issues on Tuesday . Will that clear the way for a return to the field for the Minnesota Vikings running back? NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday on NFL Network that it appears the Vikings have left the... more
Mark Sanchez's Jets career will be remembered as a star-crossed affair in franchise lore. The first-round pick famously helped guide New York to back-to-back AFC title game appearances in his first two seasons. Then it all fell apart, as prolonged... more
Greg Little has vengeance on the mind against the Cleveland Browns on Thursday night . The Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver was released by the Browns in May after three largely disappointing seasons. The former second-round pick caught on with the... more
Adrian Peterson is on the verge of resolving his legal issues. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday that the Minnesota Vikings running back agreed to a deal in a Montgomery County (Texas) courtroom that includes pleading no contest to one... more
Once upon a time, the Washington Redskins mortgaged their future to land Robert Griffin III as their franchise savior. His status as the unquestioned face of the Redskins is less certain midway through his third season. Redskins coach Jay Gruden... more
Jadeveon Clowney may (or may not) have liked an Instagram photo during the Houston Texans' 31-21 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday. Clowney, inactive with an illness , was lambasted in some pockets of the Internet for this alleged... more
The Green Bay Packers have moved on from offensive lineman Derek Sherrod. The former-first round pick was waived by the team on Monday, ending a disappointing three-and-a-half year stay in Green Bay. Sherrod appeared in 20 games, including one start... more
The San Francisco 49ers have done some business with running back Kendall Hunter. The team announced Monday that Hunter has been signed to a one-year contract extension through the 2015 season. Hunter, 26, tore his ACL at the start of training camp and... more
Adrian Peterson currently is considering a plea deal that would reduce his felony charge of injury to a child to a misdemeanor, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports, per a source informed of the running back's thinking. A plea agreement won't ensure a... more
The Houston Texans hit their bye week at 4-5, an also-ran in a conference that's unlikely to offer up a realistic path to the postseason. We imagine this is exactly what Andre Johnson worried about this summer, when his frustrations about the Texans'... more
DeMarco Murray made NFL history by becoming the first player to open a season with eight consecutive 100-yard rushing games. That streak came to an end in Sunday's 28-17 loss to the Arizona Cardinals. With Brandon Weeden struggling to move the Dallas... more
An already chippy Sunday night game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens went to another level when Terrell Suggs dove at the back of LeGarrette Blount's legs at the end of a run in the third quarter. Suggs' maneuver drew a flag for... more
Marcus Lattimore has reached a crossroads in his comeback quest. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Sunday that the San Francisco 49ers running back is weighing his options after experiencing soreness in his surgically repaired right knee and... more
The San Francisco 49ers are a .500 team midway through the season after a stunning last-second turnover by Colin Kaepernick sealed a 13-10 loss to the St. Louis Rams on Sunday. Our takeaways: 1. The game was decided when Colin Kaepernick didn't... more
Michael Vick did enough Sunday to earn a second start with the New York Jets. Rex Ryan announced after the team's 24-10 loss �to the Kansas City Chiefs that Vick will start in Week 10 against the Pittsburgh Steelers. "He'll start next week as... more
The Cincinnati Bengals withstood a late Jacksonville Jaguars rally in a 33-23 win on Sunday. Our takeaways: 1. A.J. Green made a healthy return from a three-week absence and finished with three catches for 44 yards and a touchdown on six targets.... more
The Kansas City Chiefs are 5-3 and in the thick of the AFC playoff race. Here are our takeaways from a�24-10 win over the New York Jets on Sunday at Arrowhead Stadium: 1. The Chiefs have won three in a row and five of six. The consistent play of... more
Cleveland Browns coach Mike Pettine told reporters earlier this week he can "sense" Johnny Manziel has grown frustrated in his role as a backup behind Brian Hoyer. Manziel said Friday that Pettine's characterization is not quite accurate . "I... more
Welcome to the Around The NFL End Around, a weekly look back at the world of the National Football League. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good week for ... 1. Robert Griffin III: The Redskins quarterback is "ready to go " on Sunday after a... more
Chris Johnson accurately summed up the current state of the New York Jets without even trying on Thursday. "I really don't know," Johnson said when asked if he's excited about the season's second half. "If it's going like it's been going, there's... more
The Dallas Cowboys continue to play the wait-and-see game with Tony Romo. Cowboys coach Jason Garrett told reporters prior to practice on Friday the team will closely monitor the quarterback's movement during the session. The team later annouced that... more
We all know the immense pressure that comes with an interview for a job you really want. The nerves can make your mouth go dry and your knees go weak. I remember seeing a poor sap in the NFL Network lobby sweating through his suit while waiting for his... more
The Washington Redskins are ready to hand the keys to their offense back to Robert Griffin III. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday that Griffin will start Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings, according to a source informed of the... more
Bill Belichick has been asked about a lot of different things during his 225-year (estimated) coaching career, but near the top of that list has to be questions pertaining to Peyton Manning. The New England Patriots coach met with reporters on Wednesday... more
Michael Vick was a lot better than Geno Smith on Sunday . That's not saying much, of course. Smith threw three interceptions in less than a quarter and finished with the dreaded 0.0 passer rating. Vick came on and led the Jets on two touchdown drives,... more
Robert Griffin III continues his march back to the starting lineup . Redskins coach Jay Gruden told reporters that the third-year quarterback practiced in full on Wednesday, splitting first-team reps with Colt McCoy. Gruden said there is a chance... more
Johnny Manziel is halfway through his rookie season in the NFL. He's thrown one pass. The Cleveland Browns have taken a patient approach with the quarterback, and Mike Pettine acknowledged Wednesday that he believes Manziel is frustrated with his... more
Hakeem Nicks is in danger of slipping off the grid in Indianapolis. The Colts wide receiver started in place of the injured Reggie Wayne on Sunday and failed to make an impact. It continues a season-long trend for the former New York Giants star, who... more
The New York Jets are moving away from Geno Smith. Perhaps for good. Rex Ryan announced Monday that Michael Vick will start Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. "I feel, right now, that this is the right move," Ryan said.... more
The Cincinnati Bengals picked up their biggest win of the season on Sunday. They couldn't have done it without Mohamed Sanu. The third-year wide receiver continued to build on his breakout campaign in a 27-24 win over the Baltimore Ravens. Sanu... more
Chip Kelly has earned his reputation as one of the game's most forward-thinking offensive minds. A somewhat conservative decision late in Sunday's loss to the Arizona Cardinals left the Eagles coach open to criticism. With two minutes to play and the... more
For a moment, it appeared as if the Baltimore Ravens had pulled off one of the most stunning comeback wins of the season. Trailing by three points to the Cincinnati Bengals with 45 seconds to play, Joe Flacco dropped back and launched a deep pass toward... more
Jake Long's season has again been cut short by a serious knee injury. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that an MRI confirmed the St. Louis Rams left tackle tore his ACL in Sunday's loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, according to a source... more
The Arizona Cardinals came up big in the final two minutes on Sunday, getting a 75-yard touchdown reception from John Brown and a last-second defensive stop in a 24-20 win over the Philadelphia Eagles. Our takeaways: 1. The game ended with a... more
The Miami Dolphins ran back two Blake Bortles interceptions for touchdowns on Sunday, giving Joe Philbin's team more than enough scoring in a 27-13 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars. Our takeaways: 1. Miami won because its defense made life miserable... more
Welcome to the Around The NFL End Around, a weekly look back at the world of the National Football League. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good week for ... 1. Broncos fans: You're enjoying this, right? More to the point, you guys... more
Every college player's dream is to get drafted into the NFL. That dream becomes a reality for just 256 players each year -- a tiny fraction of the thousands who believe they can perform at the game's highest level. These hopefuls are the focus of... more
In the New York Jets' season opener , Calvin Pryor dropped an easy interception on a play in which there was nothing but green turf and home-crowd adulation in front of him. It was a stinging missed opportunity for the first-round draft pick, and an... more
The New Orleans Saints are 2-4 and perhaps the NFL's most disappointing team through seven weeks. The team hasn't been in a position like this since their lost Bounty-gate season of 2011. Things won't get any easier on Sunday night , when the Saints... more
Washington Redskins coach Jay Gruden continues to play it coy regarding Robert Griffin III. Gruden told reporters on Thursday that Griffin is "steadily progressing" in his drills, but an announcement on the quarterback's availability against the Dallas... more
Jadeveon Clowney appears ready to make his return to the Houston Texans. The No. 1 overall pick told reporters Thursday he'd be surprised if he doesn't play Sunday against the Tennessee Titans. Clowney has been sidelined since the second half of Week 1... more
What a difference a month makes for Ryan Tannehill. Back on Sept. 22, Miami Dolphins coach Joe Philbin -- clearly frustrated with Tannehill's subpar play in the season's first three games -- refused to name his starting quarterback for the team's Week... more
In the above video, you'll see Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell shake free from Brian Cushing, then proceed to leave the lumbering Texans linebacker in the dust for a big gain on Monday Night Football . It was apparent then that Cushing is not... more
DeMarco Murray broke Jim Brown's 56-year-old record for consecutive 100-yard games to start a season on Sunday . To celebrate this achievement, the Dallas Cowboys running back has rewarded his thriving offensive line. The Fort Worth Star-Telegram... more
The Oakland Raiders have seen the last of one disappointing free-agent signing this season. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday that defensive end LaMarr Woodley suffered a torn biceps muscle in Sunday's loss to the Arizona Cardinals,... more
The Tennessee Titans parted ways with one veteran on Tuesday in Akeem Ayers. Could Nate Washington be the next known commodity to be sent on his way? NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday on NFL Total Access that teams have been calling the... more
Don't expect the New York Jets' offense to immediately morph into The Percy Harvin Variety Hour. Jets coach Rex Ryan told reporters on Tuesday that Harvin -- acquired last Friday in a trade with the Seattle Seahawks -- will have a small role on... more
The people at Twitter Sports have put together a fun interactive map that shows where to find followers of every NFL team in the U.S., right down to the county. Find out where followers come from for every @NFL team with our new #NFL Twitter fan map.... more
Ten scouts. Fifty states. 314 schools. 365 days. One mission. That's the message that greeted us before each episode of Finding Giants , the four-part documentary series that concluded Tuesday night on NFL Network. The series finale gave us a... more
The New England Patriots are facing the extended absence of their top pass rusher. The Boston Globe reported Tuesday that defensive end Chandler Jones could miss "about a month" due to a hip injury, according to a league source. Jones didn't... more
Luke Kuechly will escape any further punishment for making contact with an official on Sunday. NFL Media's Albert Breer reported Tuesday that the Carolina Panthers linebacker will not be fined for making contact with back judge Steve Freeman in the... more
Brett Favre's Lambeau Field return plans are back in a holding pattern. Favre told ESPN's Ed Werder that the plan to take part in pregame festivities in Green Bay next month has been postponed because of recent health problems for Hall of Fame... more
The Arizona Cardinals entered the season expecting big things from Andre Ellington. He's delivered the goods so far. Ellington, the team's talented second-year running back, had 88 yards rushing and 72 yards receiving in Sunday's win over the Oakland... more
The NFL season is filled with twists and turns for every team. The Bengals are no exception. Three weeks ago, Cincinnati was 3-0 and getting hyped up as perhaps the AFC's top team . Two losses and a tie have followed, including Sunday's embarrassing... more
Bill O'Brien certainly looked the part of a guy who was on the hammer end of one of the biggest scoring explosions in NFL history on Monday night. The Houston Texans coach couldn't hide his raw emotional state after a 30-23 loss to the Pittsburgh... more
The Pittsburgh Steelers were being shut out and booed in their own building. Then it all changed -- in a hurry. The Steelers scored 24 points in the less than three minutes of play against the Houston Texans on Monday night, turning a 13-0 deficit... more
There is an alternate reality in which Jeff Fisher is taking a monstrous amount of heat on Monday. Had Johnny Hekker dropped the snap or sailed a throw, or Benny Cunningham grown a pair of stone hands or tripped over his own feet, Fisher would be in... more
The Washington Redskins aren't ruling out a return by Robert Griffin III for Week 8 . If RGIII's not ready, it will be Colt McCoy's show. Redskins coach Jay Gruden told reporters on Monday that McCoy -- fresh off his successful relief performance in... more
These are trying times for Sean Payton. The New Orleans Saints have opened a promising season by losing four of their first six games. Things reached a nadir (for now, anyway) on Sunday , when the Saints blew a 13-point lead in the final four minutes... more
The first-place Dallas Cowboys showed no letdown after their big win in Seattle, getting another big performance from their balanced offense in a 31-21 win over the New York Giants at AT&T Stadium. Our takeaways: 1. The Cowboys won because their... more
The Baltimore Ravens took over sole possession of first place in the AFC North with an easy 29-7 win over fading Atlanta Falcons on Sunday at M&T Bank Stadium. Our takeaways: 1. The Ravens held the Falcons to less than four yards per play in a... more
The St. Louis Rams delivered big on special teams and withstood a historic day from Russell Wilson in a 28-26 win over the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday. Our takeaways: 1. The Rams were facing a fourth-and-3 from their own 18 with 2:55 to play when... more
Welcome to the Around The NFL End Around, a weekly look back at the world of the National Football League. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good week for ... 1. Jim Harbaugh: We keep hearing how Harbaugh has lost his way, but why does it... more
The Arizona Cardinals have opened talks on a contract extension with Carson Palmer. Cardinals general manager Steve Keim confirmed the team has been in discussion with Palmer's agent on a new deal. "I won't get into specific points of the... more
Steve Smith is quitting Twitter, but not without offering up a nice little analogy as a parting shot. "Internet courage is like a cover-2 corner," Smith said Thursday, according to the Ravens '�official website. "You got a safety over the top and you... more
The New England Patriots have looked within to fill the backfield vacancy left by Stevan Ridley. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Thursday the Patriots plan to promote running back Jonas Gray from their practice squad ahead of Thursday... more
You may remember the time Hue Jackson made a pretty insane trade to land Carson Palmer. The Raiders sent a first- and second-round pick to the Cincinnati Bengals to acquire the veteran quarterback in 2011. Two years later, the Raiders dealt Palmer and a... more
The Washington Redskins did not sign DeSean Jackson to be a road-grater. The 5-foot-10, 178-pound wide receiver gets paid to make big plays, not clear the way for them. But that didn't stop several D.C.-area media members from calling Jackson out... more
When you're on pace to shatter Randy Moss' all-time single-season touchdown record, it's understandable that a level of swagger may be emanating from your person. That's what happened when Denver Broncos tight end Julius Thomas collected his ninth... more
Robert Griffin III returned to practice on Wednesday, taking part in individual drills alongside Washington Redskins teammates. Redskins coach Jay Gruden told reporters that Griffin -- sidelined since Week 2 by a dislocated ankle -- "looked fine"... more
Aaron Rodgers. Jay Cutler. Matthew Stafford. Philip Rivers. Peyton Manning. Tom Brady. No, this isn't one person's list of the five best quarterbacks in the league (and Jay Cutler). It's actually the run of opposing QBs the New York Jets have faced... more
On Monday, Washington Redskins coach Jay Gruden told reporters that Kirk Cousins is in no danger of losing his job to Colt McCoy. That this was even a possibility tells you everything you need to know about life in D.C. right now. The Redskins are... more
The NFL decided the best course of action to discipline Vontaze Burfict is a fine -- for now, anyway. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday, via a league source, that Burfict will be fined $25,000 for twisting the ankles of both Cam... more
The New York Giants have no choice but to move forward without Victor Cruz. One teammate says he's yet to move on from the harrowing moment when the star wide receiver was writhing on the turf in Philadelphia. "Man, I just can't get it out of my head... more
The Steelers don't usually lose to the current iteration of the Browns. And when they do, it's never been as decisive as Sunday's 31-10 pasting in Cleveland. In the wake of that loss, which dropped Mike Tomlin's team to a middling 3-3 , former... more
When your team is 1-5 , you leave yourself wide open for all sorts of deserved criticism. This is not one of those cases. Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Gerald McCoy has been catching heat on local talk radio for helping opponents up after plays.... more
Victor Cruz's season is officially over. The New York Giants moved Cruz to injured reserve on Tuesday, two days after the star wide receiver suffered a torn patellar tendon in a Week 6 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Cruz suffered the injury... more
Don't expect Patrick Willis to make an immediate return to action for the San Francisco 49ers. ProFootballTalk reported Tuesday that Willis has been diagnosed with a sprained toe and is "currently unlikely" to play Sunday against the Denver Broncos.... more
During our sojourn to Seattle for the NFL's kickoff game last month, I made a game attempt to tally up and rank Seahawks jerseys worn about town by locals. My highly unscientific study concluded that Richard Sherman's No. 25 was the most popular in the... more
There was a time when Darrelle Revis represented the great hope for the New York Jets in their rivalry with the New England Patriots. The Patriots had Tom Brady and Bill Belichick and all the rings. But the Jets had Revis, a dominant defensive player... more
Frank Gore has continued this season as the San Francisco 49ers' starting running back, a role he's held down capably for the better part of nine seasons. Gore had to reapply for the job entering 2014, however. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport... more
Carson Palmer told reporters Sunday he was "praying" the nerve issue in his shoulder wouldn't regress overnight following his return to action in Sunday's 30-20 win over the Washington Redskins. That was the problem he faced the morning after the... more
Cordarrelle Patterson entered the 2014 season posited as a superstar in waiting. Our group fed into this hysteria, but we certainly weren't alone. Coming off an electric close to his rookie season, Patterson appeared to be Minnesota's logical... more
Derek Carr was already having a great day against the San Diego Chargers. As he dropped back to pass late in the fourth quarter, he was trying to make it unforgettable. Down three points with 1:15 to play, Carr sailed a pass deep down the near sideline... more
Calvin Johnson's return to the Detroit Lions lineup could remain in the distance. In his meeting with reporters on Monday, Lions coach Jim Caldwell didn't rule out sitting his star wide receiver against the New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons ahead... more
Darren Sproles' knee injury will cost him weeks, not the whole season. Eagles coach Chip Kelly said Monday that Sproles has a sprained MCL. NFL Media's Albert Breer reported that the running back is expected to miss one week of action, according to a... more
The Cleveland Browns have received bad news on defensive end Armonty Bryant. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Bryant was diagnosed with a torn ACL on Monday, per a source who has spoken with the player. Bryant suffered the injury during... more
Jason Verrett's interception with less than two minutes to play sealed the San Diego Chargers' come-from-behind 31-28 win over the Oakland Raiders on Sunday. Our takeaways: 1. The Chargers barely beat a winless team, but credit is deserved for coming... more
Peyton Manning edged closer to Brett Favre on Sunday, throwing three touchdown passes in a 31-17 win over the free-falling New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. Our takeaways: 1. Peyton Manning was on cruise control here, throwing three more touchdowns... more
The New York Jets are again without Dee Milliner. The former first-round pick exited Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos after suffering an injury during a first-quarter field-goal attempt by Brandon McManus. Milliner immediately grabbed at... more
The Houston Texans don't play their next game until a Monday night matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Oct. 20. That date represents the six-week anniversary of Jadeveon Clowney's arthroscopic knee surgery . The No. 1 overall pick hopes that day... more
A new era for the Buffalo Bills is underway. The Bills on Friday officially introduced Terry and Kim Pegula as the team's new owners. Terry Pegula became emotional during his opening remarks, wiping away tears while expressing his respect for Ralph... more
The New York Jets very much need Eric Decker back in the lineup. It's still unclear if that will happen this week. Decker (hamstring) was limited in practice Friday and has been listed as questionable for Sunday's matchup against the Denver Broncos.... more
Welcome to the Around The NFL End Around, a weekly look back at the world of the National Football League. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good week for ... 1. Tom Brady: The Patriots quarterback was practically glowing on the podium after... more
During the NFL season, the scouts stay in the background. As we've learned in Finding Giants -- which airing its third installment tonight at 9 ET on NFL Network -- being on the periphery doesn't mean time off. Far from it. The team's talent... more
The Detroit Lions announced Thursday they have identified the individual who shined a laser pointer at Buffalo Bills players on Sunday . In a release posted on the Lions' website , the team announced the individual will be banned indefinitely from... more
Jared Allen joined the Chicago Bears riding a streak of seven consecutive seasons with at least 11 sacks. Through four games with the Bears, Allen is behind pace. The veteran pass rusher is still looking for his first sack, in fact. Is this a sign... more
A look at the Pittsburgh Steelers' 17-9 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday reveals a curious lack of touches for Le'Veon Bell. The second-year running back had just 15 carries in the game. Bell made the most of his limited workload, piling up... more
Sammy Watkins won't be caught by surprise if he lands on Revis Island this weekend. The rookie wide receiver said Wednesday he expects Darrelle Revis to shadow him on the field when the New England Patriots visit the Buffalo Bills on Sunday in Orchard... more
A muscle specialist who has been working with Carson Palmer says the Arizona Cardinals' troublesome shoulder nerve has "woken up." Now, the question is if it stays that way. Greg Roskopf, the founder and CEO of Muscle Activation Techniques, made... more
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have a problem with their running game . The team's acting offensive coordinator doesn't believe Doug Martin is it. Quarterbacks coach Marcus Arroyo, who's filling in for Jeff Tedford during the coordinator's leave of... more
Detroit Lions coach Jim Caldwell sounds prepared to rest Calvin Johnson if necessary this weekend . Johnson isn't ready to accept that fate. Johnson told reporters Wednesday he hopes to be on the field when the Lions meet the Minnesota Vikings on... more
Someone in the crowd on Sunday at Ford Field was aiming a laser pointer at members of the Buffalo Bills. The NFL wants to find out who. League spokesman Michael Signora said an investigation is underway after quarterback Kyle Orton and holder Colton... more
Several Patriots players told NFL Media's Albert Breer last week that Gillette Stadium was an "uncomfortable" place following a Week 4 meltdown against the Kansas City Chiefs. Battista: Behind Brady's revival Just when it looked like the Patriots... more
Russell Wilson was a human-highlight reel on Monday night against the Washington Redskins, rushing for more than 100 yards while making several other plays that no other quarterback in the league would even attempt, let alone succeed at . After... more
The Seattle Seahawks got a career-best rushing day from quarterback Russell Wilson and overcame a downpour of penalty flags in a 27-17 win over the Washington Redskins. Our takeaways: 1. Russell Wilson continually beat the Redskins with his legs,... more
Tony Sparano has 12 games to convince Oakland Raiders management he can be a potential long-term solution on the sideline. Preparation for his first game as interim coach included a tried-and-true metaphorical device. As we see in this exclusive clip... more
DeMarco Murray is on pace to match the NFL's all-time record for carries in a season. The Dallas Cowboys know that needs to change. DeMarco�Murray Murray was a true workhorse on Sunday against the Houston Texans, finishing with a career-high 31... more
Arizona Cardinals coach Bruce Arians called the chop block that knocked Calais Campbell out of Sunday's 41-20 loss to the Denver Broncos "the dirtiest play (he's) seen in 37 years " of coaching. Broncos coach John Fox respectfully disagrees. "I... more
It appears that Rashad Jennings will miss some time for the New York Giants. The running back told reporters on Monday that he has a sprained MCL, according to NFL Media's Kim Jones . Jennings said he "definitely" doesn't need surgery and the MRI on his... more
Calvin Johnson still isn't close to himself. The Detroit Lions could be ready to take a different approach to his recovery. Lions coach Jim Caldwell said he is "strongly" considering holding Johnson out of action in Week 6 to give his lingering ankle... more
The Dallas Cowboys couldn't help but notice how many fans were rooting against them in their own building on Sunday. For the first time in his 12-year career, Tony Romo was forced to use a silent snap count at home. Right guard Zack Martin tapped center... more
Rex Ryan turned to Michael Vick on Sunday, but he's sticking with Geno Smith going forward. Ryan announced after the New York Jets' shutout loss to the San Diego Chargers that Smith will be the team's starter in Week 6 against the Denver Broncos.... more
The San Diego Chargers made it look easy on Sunday, overwhelming the slumping New York Jets in a 31-0 win at Qualcomm Stadium. Our takeaways: 1. The Chargers look like a complete team and a legit AFC contender after their fourth consecutive win. They... more
Dan Bailey kicked a 49-yard field goal with 7:45 remaining in overtime to lift the Dallas Cowboys to a 20-17 win over the Houston Texans on Sunday. The Cowboys are 4-1 for the first time since 2008. Our takeaways: 1. Sometimes a superstar needs to... more
The Philadelphia Eagles continued to get game-changing contributions from their defense and special teams in a 34-27 win on Sunday. Our takeaways: 1. The Eagles set the tone in this one with a blocked punt returned for a touchdown on the game's first... more
Welcome to the Around The NFL End Around, a weekly look back at the world of the National Football League. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good week for ... 1. Steve Smith: Who's having more fun right now than the irrepressible Agent 89?... more
Scouts for the New York Giants found themselves in an unusual position last fall. The club's talent finders were hard at work -- traveling to schools, talking to coaches, watching games, checking into hotels, studying film, going to sleep, then doing it... more
The uncertainty around Carson Palmer continues. The Arizona Cardinals quarterback, out since Week 2 with a nerve issue in his shoulder, said Thursday he was told by a specialist his injury is not career- or season-threatening and could "wake " at any... more
Eric Decker can't seem to shake his hamstring woes. New York Jets coach Rex Ryan told reporters that Decker did not practice on Thursday after feeling tightness in the hamstring originally injured in a Week 2 loss to the Green Bay Packers. Ryan is... more
Antrel Rolle has a theory on why Giants teammate Prince Amukamara is having the best season of his career. Hint: It's less about X's and O's and more about birds and bees. "I think it all ties into one another, as far as him getting married, being... more
The Dallas Cowboys had the chance to draft J.J. Watt and passed. They don't regret it. Watt was available when the Cowboys went on the clock with the ninth overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft. Dallas did its due diligence on Watt but settled on left... more
The Baltimore Ravens know they have bigger things to contend with on Sunday than that nasty rumor of piped-in crowd noise at Lucas Oil Stadium. That challenge begins with Andrew Luck, who's playing as well as any quarterback in the league right now.... more
Geno Smith is having a bad week. His team is in a deep slump, and his play is a big reason why. The ugly F-bomb incident involving a fan at MetLife Stadium was the cherry on top of a dirt sundae. The Jets locker room is no bastion, either. It's there... more
The Kyle Orton era has begun in Buffalo , and Bills players already see the difference with the veteran passer running the show. "We just had a different approach to practice," wide receiver Sammy Watkins said, according to ESPN.com . "(Orton) demands... more
Nobody cares about your fantasy team. You should know this by now. But there's something interesting -- fascinating even -- about an NFL player wrestling with a gameday roster decision that involves himself. That's what happened on Thursday to New... more
The Oakland Raiders named Tony Sparano as their interim coach on Tuesday, but that hasn't quelled speculation about who might take Dennis Allen's old job on a full-time basis. The biggest name, of course, is Jon Gruden, the ESPN analyst who found great... more
Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh said Monday that playing against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium presents a challenge to the eardrums. Andrew�Luck "We'll have to work on the crowd noise," Harbaugh said, according to The... more
The Pittsburgh Steelers have been one of the most penalized teams in the NFL this season. To help fix that problem, Mike Tomlin has invited officials to practice this week in an effort to cut down on the incessant infractions. Teams often have officials... more
AFC EAST AFC NORTH AFC SOUTH AFC WEST Four weeks of the season is enough time to get a read on what each team is known for. Around The NFL will look at the identity for all 32 teams after the first month of the season. Denver's... more
LaMichael James has found a new home. James' agent tweeted Tuesday that the running back has signed with the Miami Dolphins. The San Francisco 49ers granted James' request for his release earlier this month. James never found a defined role in... more
The Oakland Raiders have settled on their replacement for Dennis Allen. The team announced Tuesday it has elevated offensive line coach Tony Sparano to interim head coach. The decision comes one day after Allen was fired four games into his third... more
Carson Palmer believed last week that he'd "definitely" be ready for the Arizona Cardinals' Week 5 matchup against the Denver Broncos. As the Cardinals come out of their bye, Palmer doesn't sound quite as optimistic. Palmer told ESPN's Ed... more
The Indianapolis Colts won't get a contribution from Robert Mathis this season. That didn't stop them from deepening their committment to the veteran pass rusher. The Colts announced Tuesday that Mathis has been signed to a one-year extension that now... more
We've reached the quarter pole of the NFL season. The Pittsburgh Steelers hold the unfortunate distinction of being on the wrong end of the season's biggest upset to date. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers went into Heinz Field on Sunday and came out with... more
New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith set himself up for some bad press (and a hit to his wallet) when he shouted profanity at an agitated fan at MetLife Stadium on Sunday . New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham can surely relate to Smith's... more
Monday night's blowout loss to the Kansas City Chiefs wasn't the lowest point in Tom Brady's career (Eli Manning has the market cornered there). But it certainly was one of the most unusual nights of it. By the fourth quarter -- with the game long... more
Cam Newton's combination of size and speed has made him a terror for defensive coordinators since entering the NFL. Over his first three seasons, Newton ran for 28 touchdowns (third most in football) and accounted for 31.1 percent of Carolina's rushing... more
The Buffalo Bills have made a change at quarterback. Coach Doug Marrone announced Monday that Kyle Orton will replace EJ Manuel as the starter when the Bills visit the Detroit Lions on Sunday . Marrone said he came to his decision Monday afternoon. "I... more
The slumping New York Jets have made a surprise move in the aftermath of their third straight loss. The team announced Monday that it has released wide receiver Jalen Saunders, a fourth-round pick in May's draft. The Jets' filled Saunders' roster spot... more
The Minnesota Vikings appear on track to have Teddy Two Gloves back on the field in Week 5 . Vikings coach Mike Zimmer told reporters on Monday that Teddy Bridgewater was feeling a lot better on Monday and an MRI on his sprained left ankle came back... more
Calvin Johnson didn't look like The Baddest Receiver On The Planet on Sunday against the New York Jets. Johnson, slowed by a sprained ankle, was limited to a season-low 37 snaps in the Lions'�24-17 win at the Meadowlands. He finished with just two... more
After years serving as the face of mediocrity in the NFL, the Dallas Cowboys may be ready to take on a new identity this season: Surprise playoff contender. Tony Romo threw for 262 yards and three touchdowns and DeMarco Murray ran for 149 yards and... more
Teddy Bridgewater did everything the Minnesota Vikings could have asked for in his first start on Sunday -- except finish the game. The rookie quarterback injured his ankle in the fourth quarter of a 41-28 win over the Atlanta Falcons. Bridgewater... more
The Minnesota Vikings tied a franchise record with four rushing touchdowns in a 41-28 win over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday. Our takeaways: 1. Teddy Bridgewater's first start ended prematurely due to an ankle injury , but what transpired before that... more
The Indianapolis Colts had no problem moving the ball against the hapless Tennessee Titans in a 41-17 win at Lucas Oil Stadium. Our takeaways: 1. Andrew Luck is rolling now. The Colts quarterback threw four more touchdowns on Sunday, giving him eight... more
The Detroit Lions remain on top in the NFC North, playing mistake-free football in a 24-17 win over the reeling New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. Our takeaways: 1. Matthew Stafford showed us he doesn't need Calvin Johnson to thrive. With Johnson... more
Welcome to the Around The NFL End Around, a weekly look back at the world of the National Football League. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good week for ... 1. Eli Manning: Two weeks ago, Giants fans would have sent Eli on his way for a... more
Julius Peppers was unable to go out a winner in Chicago. In fact, the last play of his time with the Bears was perhaps the most gut-wrenching of his career. We refer, of course, to Aaron Rodgers' dramatic 48-yard touchdown strike to Randall Cobb that... more
Roddy White is ready to make his return to the Atlanta Falcons' starting lineup. The veteran wide receiver told reporters on Thursday he's "good to go" for Sunday's road matchup against the Minnesota Vikings, according to the Falcons' team site .... more
Eli Manning has appeared far more comfortable in Ben McAdoo's new offense in the past two weeks. The New York Giants quarterback has completed 70 percent of his passes overall -- his QB coach's magic number -- against the Arizona Cardinals and... more
Ryan Tannehill told reporters on Wednesday that Joe Philbin's decision not to name a starting quarterback this week had become a distraction for the Miami Dolphins. Tannehill took matters into his own hands, confirming he'll be the starter when the... more
Bad news usually travels fast in the NFL, but it took 48 hours for Eddie Lacy to learn of some not-so-flattering comments from his head coach. Mike McCarthy told reporters Monday that "Eddie needs to play better "�following a rough performance against... more
In the world Joe Philbin has crafted through the media, Matt Moore could be the Miami Dolphins' starting quarterback in a few days. Only he won't be. Ryan Tannehill threw up the house lights on his coach's mystery party Wednesday by declaring himself... more
Rob Gronkowski is ready to be a full-time player again. The New England Patriots have kept their dynamic tight end on something of a snap count as he's made his return from reconstructive knee surgery. Gronk has played in just 48.2 percent of the... more
Tennessee Titans punter Brett Kern is having a difficult time believing reports that have surfaced in the wake of the death of former teammate Rob Bironas. Bironas, 36, was killed late Saturday in a single-car accident in Nashville. The Tennessean... more
The arrival of Steve Smith has been very good for Joe Flacco. Smith has been the Baltimore Ravens' best receiver through three weeks, a much-needed development for a team that again finds itself without Dennis Pitta. This is a big week for Smith... more
Joe Philbin has remained reticent to name his starting quarterback for Week 4. So Ryan Tannehill did it for him. Tannehill told reporters on Wednesday that he will be under center when the Miami Dolphins face the Oakland Raiders in London on Sunday.... more
Tyvon Branch has played his final snap of the 2014 season. The Raiders announced Wednesday that the foot fracture Branch suffered against the New England Patriots on Sunday will put him on injured reserve. Wide receiver Rod Streater also suffered... more
Times are good for the Philadelphia Eagles. The team is 3-0 for the first time since 2004, which just so happens to be the last year the Eagles reached the Super Bowl. That perfect start has come despite some atypical production from LeSean McCoy.... more
For the second consecutive day, Dolphins coach Joe Philbin chose not to address his quarterback plans ahead of Miami's Week 4 matchup against the Oakland Raiders. "At the end of the week, we're going to pick the 46 guys that give us the best chance... more
The Washington Redskins will continue their waiting game with Jordan Reed. The second-year tight end said Monday he won't play on Thursday against the New York Giants and still has no timetable for a return more than three weeks after suffering a... more
The New York Jets cried foul after an error by game officials cost them a potentially game-swinging touchdown�Monday night . The play occurred with less than two minutes to go in the first half, the Jets trailing the Chicago Bears by four. Jay... more
Tom Brady -- or a well-compensated social media handler -- is on a roll. Last week, the New England Patriots quarterback saw his Facebook page go viral after he posted his resume coming out of the University of Michigan in 2000. "Found my old... more
The Cleveland Browns handed out a rich extension to Joe Haden in the offseason because they're of the belief that the cornerback is one of the best in football. Problem is, Haden hasn't played like it so far this season. Haden has struggled in... more
The Chicago Bears took advantage of the New York Jets mistakes and made a late stand deep in their own end to secure a 27-19 win on Monday night at the Meadowlands. Our takeaways: 1. Ryan Mundy set the tone in this one with a pick six of Geno... more
Brandon Marshall is having more trouble with his injured ankle. The Chicago Bears wide receiver exited Monday night's 27-19 win over the New York Jets after aggravating a right ankle injury. Marshall was initially listed as probable to return but was... more
Eddie Lacy was supposed to be one of the best running backs in football this season. He was supposed to be a key cog in one of the NFL's potent offenses. None of that has come to fruition for the Green Bay Packers through three weeks. The Packers have... more
With Josh McCown possibly hitting the shelf for a significant stretch, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are looking for outside help at quarterback. That means opportunity for former Oakland Raiders signal-caller Terrelle Pryor, who worked out for the Bucs... more
Dennis Pitta's season is over. Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh told reporters on Monday that Pitta underwent surgery on his dislocated right hip and is lost for the year. The procedure comes one day after the tight end suffered the non-contact... more
Baltimore Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti said Monday that an extensive ESPN.com report questioning how the Ravens and NFL handled the Ray Rice assault case was built upon sources looking out for the best interests of the suspended running back. The Ravens... more
The New York Jets and Chicago Bears are both coming off memorable games against NFC contenders. The Bears stormed back to beat the San Francisco 49ers last Sunday night , while the Jets lost to the Packers in ignominious fashion; a game the fanbase will... more
The Pittsburgh Steelers turned their fortunes around in impressive fashion on Sunday night, authoring a dominant performance in a 37-19 victory over the Carolina Panthers in Charlotte. Our takeaways: 1. The Steelers looked lost against the Baltimore... more
Knile Davis offered up a reasonable facsimile of Jamaal Charles on Sunday, powering the Kansas City Chiefs to a 34-15 win over the toothless Miami Dolphins. Our takeways: 1. Ryan Tannehill essentially called himself out last week , acknowledging he... more
The San Diego Chargers jumped out to an early lead over the Buffalo Bills then let their defense do the rest in a 22-10 win on Sunday in Orchard Park. Our takeaways: 1. Philip Rivers is locked in right now. The veteran quarterback connected with his... more
The Dallas Cowboys climbed out of 21-point first-half hole and Morris Claiborne had the game-clinching interception late to clinch a 34-31 win over the St. Louis Rams. Our takeaways: 1. All eyes were on Tony Romo after consecutive sluggish games were... more
Moments after Devin Hester high-stepped his way to a record-breaking 20th career return touchdown on Thursday night , Ian Eagle -- calling the game for Westwood One -- excitedly referred to the Atlanta Falcons veteran as a "future Hall of Famer ."... more
The Miami Dolphins will have to wait even longer for the return of former first-round pick Dion Jordan. The NFL announced Friday that Jordan's previously imposed four-game suspension has been lifted, per the terms of the NFL's new drug policy.... more
Welcome to the Around The NFL End Around, a weekly look back at the world of the National Football League. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good week for ... 1. Devin Hester: I'm sure there were #hottakes out there Friday calling Hester a... more
The NFL and NFL Players Association officially announced on Friday their agreement on a wide-ranging series of changes to their programs on substance abuse and performance enhancing substances, minutes before NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell held his press... more
The Arizona Cardinals have a football game in three days . It remains a mystery if Carson Palmer will be part of it. Palmer was a surprise scratch last Sunday with a nerve issue in his throwing shoulder. Drew Stanton stepped up and did a... more
Today marks the one-year anniversary of what could be remembered as one of the most lopsided trades in NFL history. On Sept. 18, 2013, Indianapolis Colts general manager Ryan Grigson pulled the trigger on a deal that sent a first-round pick to the... more
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers were without two of their top players for Thursday night's blowout loss to the Falcons. Doug Martin (knee) and defensive tackle Gerald McCoy (hand) both sat out the Bucs'�tilt against �Atlanta. Tampa Bay's rookie tight end... more
Did you know Tom Brady was a sixth-round pick in the 2000 NFL Draft? You probably knew. OK, you definitely knew. That's Football 101 at this point. But let's now step back in time and put ourselves in young Tom Brady's shoes as a 22-year-old kid coming... more
Multiple San Diego Chargers claimed that Richard Sherman had been "exposed" after Philip Rivers completed some passes in the direction of the Seattle Seahawks cornerback Sunday. Sherman leaned on social media to return fire that night. On Wednesday,... more
The Miami Dolphins are still waiting for Ryan Tannehill to start looking like a franchise quarterback worthy of Dan Marino's throne. Tannehill understands his performance must improve. "I just haven't been putting the ball in the right spot,"... more
The New York Jets moved on from Santonio Holmes this offseason, signing off on a salary-cap hit to get the overpaid and under-productive wide receiver out of the picture. Holmes left behind a conflicted legacy with the Jets. He had some undeniably big... more
On Sunday, Cam Newton offered up what appeared to be a sincere apology for using the nickname "Donkey Kong" to describe Detroit Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh during a press conference. For the record, Newton actually uttered the name "Donkey... more
Roddy White's availability in Week 3 has yet to come into focus. The Atlanta Falcons have listed the veteran wide receiver as questionable for Thursday's divisional showdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. White is dealing with a hamstring... more
We imagine Ben Roethlisberger would probably sign off on never playing the Baltimore Ravens again if given the chance. The Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback has said that a 2006 hit by then-Ravens linebacker Bart Scott was the hardest shot he's ever... more
The NFL and NFL Players Association announced Wednesday a new agreement to the league's steroids policy. Per the official release, the NFL and NFLPA are nearing an agreement on changes to the substance abuse policy that is expected to be announced when... more
Cody Parkey kicked a 36-yard field goal as time expired, lifting the Philadelphia Eagles to a come-from-behind 30-27 win over the Indianapolis Colts on Monday night. Our takeaways: 1. The Eagles' secret weapon on this night was Darren Sproles, who set... more
The playmaker-starved Oakland Raiders are taking a flier on Vincent Brown. The former San Diego Chargers wide receiver signed a one-year contract with the Raiders on Monday, according to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport. Brown, a 2011 third-round pick,... more
The Chicago Bears ruined the San Francisco 49ers' housewarming party at Levi's Stadium on Sunday night . In the aftermath of his first home opener loss as Niners coach, Jim Harbaugh provided a lukewarm review of the home crowd. "I noticed, at times,... more
The addition of Bill Lazor was supposed to do wonders for the Miami Dolphins offense. A head-scratching decision by Joe Philbin flew in the face of any such optimism on Sunday against the Buffalo Bills. Trailing 9-0 with 2:21 remaining in the second... more
Ray Rice has kept a low profile since being released by the Baltimore Ravens and suspended indefinitely by the NFL. That's about to change. Rice is expected to, but has yet to file an appeal of his indefinite suspension, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport... more
The Green Bay Packers wiped out an 18-point first-half deficit on their way to a 31-24 win over the New York Jets on Sunday at Lambeau Field. Our takeaways: 1. Jordy Nelson deserves to be recognized as one of the NFL's best wide receivers. He was a... more
Muhammad Wilkerson lost his cool, then lost the chance to help the New York Jets on Sunday at Lambeau Field. Wilkerson was ejected in the third quarter after taking swings at multiple Packers players moments after a successful two-point conversion... more
The Buffalo Bills rode great defense and an electric atmosphere at Ralph Wilson Stadium to a 29-10 win over the Miami Dolphins on Sunday. Our takeaways: 1. The Bill Lazor hype train slowed to a crawl in Orchard Park. The Dolphins' offense didn't cross... more
Knowshon Moreno's Sunday came to a premature and painful end. The Dolphins running back dislocated his left elbow during Miami's 29-10 loss to the Bills, and he's expected to miss about four weeks, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported, per a... more
The Arizona Cardinals took advantage of a series of fourth-quarter miscues by the New York Giants in a 25-14 win on Sunday at the Meadowlands. Our takeaways: 1. The Giants led 14-13 with 11 minutes to play. Then it all fell apart. A Victor Cruz drop... more
Welcome to the Around The NFL End Around, a weekly look back at the world of the National Football League. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good week for ... 1. Calvin Johnson: Megatron is on pace for 112 catches for 2,624 yards and 32... more
John Abraham's NFL career is suddenly in doubt. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday the Arizona Cardinals linebacker -- who suffered a concussion during Monday's win over the San Diego Chargers -- has taken leave from the team, per a... more
Antonio Brown's decision to introduce his cleat to a punter's face has come at a cost. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Thursday that the Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver has been fined $8,200 for his kick of Cleveland Browns punter Spencer... more
Yes, LeSean McCoy left a waiter a 20-cent tip this week. No, he doesn't have remorse over this decision. McCoy has been dragged through the social media mud after a Philadelphia burger joint called out the Eagles star for stiffing a waiter on a $61.56... more
Eddie Lacy has taken another step toward a return to game action for the Green Bay Packers. The running back was at practice in full pads on Thursday and was cleared to play , making it likely he will face the New York Jets in Week 2 . The runner... more
Change is hard. Eli Manning knows this. And so does the coach of his Week 2 opponent, Bruce Arians. Arians remembers the growing pains as he attempted to install his own offensive system with the Arizona Cardinals last year. Arians believes it... more
The New England Patriots expected Brandon LaFell to boost their passing game. That didn't happen in Week 1 . The former Carolina Panthers wide receiver was shut out against the Miami Dolphins, finishing without a catch despite six targets from Tom... more
The San Diego Chargers will go the rest of the way without Nick Hardwick. The team announced Wednesday that Hardwick has been placed on season-ending injured reserve with a neck injury. Hardwick has had a history of "stinger" issues and had suffered... more
Let's talk about The Throw. I'm not sure if Matthew Stafford's 16-yard touchdown pass to Calvin Johnson on Monday night will be deemed iconic enough to earn membership into the "The ______ Club," but it certainly has our vote. Matthew�Stafford... more
During Sunday's telecast of the Baltimore Ravens' 23-16 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, CBS analyst Solomon Wilcots said Joe Flacco told him that Torrey Smith needed to continue working to get better on his underneath routes. On Tuesday, Flacco... more
The New York Giants' offense looked lost in an ugly blowout loss to the Detroit Lions on Monday night. Victor Cruz has a theory on how to rectify the situation. "I think in order for us to be successful, there needs to be an increased number of targets... more
Doug Martin wasn't on the field in crunch time for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Sunday's loss to the Carolina Panthers. Bucs coach Lovie Smith explained Tuesday that Martin's absence wasn't because of a leg injury suffered earlier in the game. "Doug... more
Ray Rice has broken his silence. A day after his contract was terminated by the Baltimore Ravens and he received an indefinite suspension from the NFL, Rice made his first public statement to ESPN's Josina Anderson. "I have to be strong for my wife,"... more
The Baltimore Ravens have placed 2013 second-round pick Arthur Brown on the trade block. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday that the Ravens are open to trading the linebacker, according to a source informed of the situation. They have... more
Tony Romo struggled mightily in his season debut on Sunday , but Dallas Cowboys coach Jason Garrett doesn't believe rust is to blame for the quarterback's three-interception performance against the 49ers. Battista: Disaster in Dallas Could age and... more
There have been years when Larry Fitzgerald was the near totality of the Arizona Cardinals' offense. This is unlikely to be one of them. The Cardinals escaped with an 18-17 win over the San Diego Chargers in Monday night's opener, but Fitzgerald -- the... more
The Buffalo Bills have found their new owner. Buffalo Sabres owner Terry Pegula has reached an agreement to buy the Bills, the team announced. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports the team will be sold for $1.4 billion, according to two sources... more
John Harbaugh told reporters on Monday evening that the Baltimore Ravens came to a swift decision to release Ray Rice after watching footage of Rice assaulting his then-fiancee in a hotel elevator. Harbaugh said Monday was the first time the Ravens had... more
The 2014 season presented itself as Robert Griffin III's opportunity for redemption. After Week 1, that opportunity still remains. But things are off to a troubling start. The third-year quarterback struggled to move the Redskins' offense for four... more
The Houston Texans will have to make do without their No. 1 overall pick for the foreseeable future. Texans coach Bill O'Brien said Monday that Jadeveon Clowney underwent arthroscopic knee surgery and will miss four to six weeks. NFL Media Insider Ian... more
The Indianapolis Colts have received crushing news on their biggest defensive star. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that linebacker Robert Mathis is out for the season after suffering a torn Achilles tendon, according to two sources... more
The St. Louis Rams are about to dig deeper into their quarterback depth chart. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that Shaun Hill's status for Week 2 is in doubt after he strained his quad in the Rams' blowout loss to the Minnesota... more
Michael Vick made his New York Jets debut as a gadget player on Sunday. The results weren't all that memorable. The veteran quarterback was on the field for three red-zone snaps in a 19-14 win over the Oakland Raiders. He lined up as receiver on two... more
Since rejoining the NFL in 1999, the Cleveland Browns have perpetually been on the boot end of their rivalry with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Perhaps Antonio Brown was just providing a reminder to the public with his actions on Sunday . Brown ended a long... more
The Philadelphia Eagles have lost All-Pro guard Evan Mathis for the foreseeable future. Jeff McLane of the Philadelphia Inquirer reported Monday that Mathis "will be out for an extended period" after an MRI revealed a sprained MCL in his right... more
The Denver Broncos have successfully moved forward from their Super Bowl plight. Peyton Manning connected on three scoring passes to Julius Thomas in the first half, and the Broncos' defense held off a late Indianapolis Colts rally in a 31-24 win on... more
The Carolina Panthers showed they could win without Cam Newton on Sunday, starting strong then holding off a late Tampa Bay Buccaneers rally in a 20-14 win victory . Our takeaways: 1. Derek Anderson did the job in Newton's place, completing over 70... more
The Bill O'Brien era got off to a fine start in Houston with an impressive 17-6 win over the suspect-looking Washington Redskins on Sunday. Our takeaways: 1. J.J. Watt got paid this summer, and he immediately reminded everyone why he was worth... more
The New York Jets took advantage of the Oakland Raiders and rookie quarterback Derek Carr in a 19-14 win at the Meadowlands on Sunday. Our takeaways: 1. We expected Rex Ryan's defense to have its way with Carr, and that's exactly what happened.... more
SEATTLE -- The noise is no joke. That was my immediate thought as I stood near the south end zone moments before kickoff at CenturyLink Field on Thursday. Everything you've heard is true. Michele Tafoya tells no tall tales . Seahawks fans -- "The... more
SEATTLE -- Marshawn Lynch was vintage Beast Mode on Thursday night against the Packers, rushing for 110 yards and two touchdowns on 20 carries. Lynch's teammate, Michael Bennett, had a sideline view of the great running back's performance. Bennett got... more
Jim Kelly is cancer-free. A group representing the Hall of Fame quarterback released a statement announcing that Kelly underwent a series of biopsies in New York on Thursday that showed no signs of cancer in his body. "This is some of the greatest... more
Tom Brady was conspicuously absent from New England Patriots practice on Thursday. Now we know why. The veteran quarterback has landed on the team's injury report with a calf issue. It's unclear if Brady is dealing with a legitimate injury or the... more
Junior Galette and the New Orleans Saints have done some business. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday that Galette and the Saints have reached a deal on a four-year extension worth $41.5 million with $23 million guaranteed, per a source... more
The New York Giants continue to shuffle their suspect offensive line. The team officially placed Geoff Schwartz on injured reserve with a designation to return on Wednesday, a move that will sideline the starting guard for the first half of the... more
Michael Sam's NFL journey will indeed continue with the Dallas Cowboys. Dallas coach Jason Garrett announced that Sam has been added to the team's practice squad. The defensive end will practice Wednesday on a limited basis. "We feel like he has a... more
Rob Gronkowski says he's ready to go in Week 1 for the New England Patriots. Bill Belichick isn't ready to make anything official. "Well, I'm glad that Rob's optimistic about his situation," Belichick said Tuesday, according to the Patriots'... more
For the vast majority of football fans, the final game of the preseason is treated with open disdain. Most people don't watch on TV. Judging by wide shots, not many attend the games, either. Established players typically don't see a snap, making the... more
Stephen Hill has escaped the unemployment line. The next goal is getting back on a 53-man roster. The Carolina Panthers announced Tuesday that they have signed the former New York Jets wide receiver to their practice squad. The move comes one day... more
Brian Waters is calling it a career. The longtime guard has decided to retire after 13 seasons spent with the Kansas City Chiefs, New England Patriots and Dallas Cowboys. "After a long and wonderful career I have decided to retire," Waters said in... more
Robert Griffin III's divorce with Mike Shanahan might be final, but that doesn't mean the acrimonious breakup hasn't stuck with the Washington Redskins quarterback. In an in-depth interview with Bleacher Report's Les Carpenter, Griffin acknowledged... more
The Houston Texans did right by their most valuable asset on Monday, making J.J. Watt one of the�highest-paid players �in football. Watt still had two years left on the rookie deal he signed with Houston in 2011, but no one should fault Houston... more
Nick Fairley has battled weight issues throughout his NFL career. His demotion from the starting lineup this summer made him do something about it. The Detroit Lions defensive tackle hired a personal chef after he was benched in favor of veteran... more
Robert Mathis might be temporarily out of the picture for the Indianapolis Colts, but he left behind a message for his teammates to remember him by. Mathis, who's set to begin a four-game suspension for violating the league's performance-enhancing drug... more
Alex Boone has won his standoff with the San Francisco 49ers. Boone passed his physical and rejoined the team on Monday, the team announced. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported that the Niners ended the lengthy standoff by rolling Boone's... more
The St. Louis Rams finalized their practice squad on Monday, a 10-player collective that did not include Michael Sam. With no other teams knocking on the door, what's next for Sam? The Canadian Football League is one option. NFL Media Insider Ian... more
The St. Louis Rams have added a fresh face to their quarterback room. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported that the Rams claimed Case Keenum on waivers, according to a team official. Keenum was waived by the Texans after Houston acquired Ryan... more
Pittsburgh Steelers helmets will include a decal this season to honor the memory of coaching great Chuck Noll. The black decal will feature Noll's "CHN" initials in Steelers gold. Noll, the only coach to win four Super Bowls, passed away in June at the... more
The Tennessee Titans have identified their new kicker. The Titans announced Monday�that the team has agreed to terms with former Kansas City Chiefs kicker Ryan Succop. The Tennessean reports it's a one-year deal. Succop will get a chance to send... more
Wes Welker has taken his first step toward a return to game action following his latest concussion. The veteran wide receiver joined Broncos teammates on the field for practice on Monday. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported that Welker has yet... more
Rob Gronkowski is ready to go. The All-Pro tight end told reporters on Monday that he will be on the field when the New England Patriots open the regular season on Sunday against the Miami Dolphins. "I'm ready to go," Gronkowski said, according... more
Chris Clemons ' stay with the Houston Texans was short-lived. The Texans waived the veteran safety on Sunday, according to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, per a source informed of the move. The move comes just five months after Clemons signed a... more
Rex Grossman couldn't find a home with the Cleveland Browns. The quarterback has been released, the team announced. Grossman, a 12-year veteran who spent the past four seasons with the Washington Redskins, signed with the Browns on Aug. 12.... more
Ryan Mallett is on the move. The New England Patriots have traded Mallett to the Houston Texans. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, who originally�broke the news, reported that the�Patriots received a seventh-round draft pick that can become a... more
San Francisco 49ers defensive end Ray McDonald was arrested early Sunday morning on felony domestic violence charges. McDonald was arrested and booked into Santa Clara County Jail after officers responded to a domestic violence incident, according to... more
The New York Jets badly need Dee Milliner back in their secondary. That might not happen until after Week 1 . Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News reported Sunday that the "feeling right now" is that Milliner will not be ready for next Sunday's... more
The Oakland Raiders went on a spending spree this offseason with the intention of lifting the franchise out of what's become a decade-long malaise. We'll soon find out if the moves by general manager Reggie McKenzie make a difference. We can say the... more
We perhaps now have some explanation for Matt Schaub's struggles this preseason. Oakland Raiders coach Dennis Allen told reporters on Sunday that Schaub is dealing with a sore throwing elbow, according to the Bay Area News Group . The quarterback... more
What a difference one drive makes for the New York Giants. Through five possessions against the New York Jets on Friday night , Eli Manning and the Giants' first-team offense did nothing. Only monster fans of punter Steve Weatherford could view the... more
Two weeks ago, Drew Brees called Pierre Thomas the "best all-purpose back in the league." That's lofty praise from an important member of the organization, but we're still waiting to see where Thomas fits in the New Orleans Saints' offense. Thomas had... more
Stricter enforcement of pass coverage rules led to an avalanche of penalties in the first week of the preseason. ESPN's John Clayton did the math , tallying 27 illegal contact penalties in the first 17 preseason games. By comparison, there were 37 such... more
We don't feel the need to do too much setting up of the above video, because that would simply delay you from watching it. So, go ahead and enjoy "Fantasy Football Fantasy ," the new DirecTV music video starring Peyton and Eli Manning. You back?... more
We already knew �that Dri Archer was crazy fast. On Saturday , we got a sneak peak of what that speed can do against an NFL defense. The Pittsburgh Steelers rookie took a screen pass from Ben Roethlisberger, then slashed through the heart of the New... more
Could we see even more Wildcat from the New York Jets in 2014? Rex Ryan's team used the formation a league-high 38 times last season, a wrinkle in the game plan that found limited success. With Michael Vick now in the picture, there continues to be... more
Teddy Bridgewater might be the popular pick to start Week 1 for the Minnesota Vikings, but Matt Cassel proved Friday he won't be going down without a fight. The veteran quarterback started and made the most of his one series, leading the Vikings on... more
Welcome to the Around The League End Around, a weekly look back at the world of the NFL. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good week for ... 1. Scott Mitchell: The former Lions quarterback now weighs 366 pounds. This is bad. He will appear on... more
The Miami Dolphins will open the season without Reshad Jones. The team's starting safety has been suspended four games for violating the NFL policy on performance enhancing substances. The Dolphins are now down two important defenders due to suspension:... more
A Lombardi Trophy doesn't have to be on the line for there to be bad blood between the Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks. The Thursday night preseason opener for both teams featured physical play, gobs of penalties and one end-zone scuffle that... more
Chris Ivory has struggled to stay healthy during his career. The New York Jets hope Thursday isn't a sign of things to come. Ivory suffered a rib injury in the second quarter of the Jets' 13-10 preseason win over the Indianapolis Colts. The team... more
The Indianapolis Colts couldn't make it through their first preseason possession without an injury. Starting center Khaled Holmes limped off the field Thursday after sustaining an ankle injury against the New York Jets. He was replaced in the... more
Scott Mitchell was once an impressively toned professional athlete. Now he is not. The former Detroit Lions quarterback has ballooned up to 366 pounds since his NFL career came to a close in 2002. That's a 126-pound weight gain since throwing his last... more
Jake Ballard is walking away from the NFL. The veteran tight end announced his retirement Wednesday after four seasons with the New York Giants, New England Patriots and Arizona Cardinals. Ballard, 26, appeared in eight games with the Cardinals last... more
Odell Beckham is making strides toward a return to active duty with the New York Giants. A lingering hamstring injury has kept the first-round pick sidelined for much of training camp. Beckham was seen running off to the side during Tuesday's... more
Tony Romo and Ryan Tannehill both have been in the news this week in relation to deep-ball accuracy. Cowboys quarterbacks coach Wade Wilson acknowledged Tuesday that Romo's downfield passing has been "a little bit more inconsistent" as he recovers... more
Brian Hoyer is the first man up in the Cleveland Browns' quarterback competition. Browns coach Mike Pettine announced after Wednesday's practice that Hoyer will start Saturday's preseason opener against the Detroit Lions. Pettine added that it's... more
No one gets cut in the season premiere of Hard Knocks . I can't remember the last time this series went its first 60 minutes without showing at least one sorry sucker getting his dreams pulverized in HD. In a twist, the hammer actually comes from the... more
Some high-profile rookies hit the ground running in their first training camp. Many more do not. Eric Ebron is part of that second group. The 10th overall pick has struggled to get up to speed this summer while attempting to learn the intricacies of Joe... more
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have officially closed the books on guard Carl Nicks. ESPN reported Tuesday that the Bucs agreed to a $3 million injury settlement with Nicks, according to a league source. Nicks signed a five-year, $47.5 million deal... more
Santonio Holmes is back on the NFL radar. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported that the free-agent wide receiver -- out of work since being released by the New York Jets in March -- worked out for the Chicago Bears on Tuesday. Holmes�also�has... more
The Green Bay Packers have gotten bad news on tackle Don Barclay. Weston Hodkiewicz of Press-Gazette Media reports Barclay suffered a torn ACL �on Tuesday in training camp, according to a league source. Barclay was carted off the field after... more
When Darrelle Revis signed with the New England Patriots, the widely held belief was that Bill Belichick would use the star cornerback in a Rex Ryan-like manner. This, of course, is the Revis Island method: Assign Revis to the opposition's top wide... more
New York Jets coach Rex Ryan told reporters on Tuesday he foresees Chris Johnson sharing touches with Chris Ivory and Bilal Powell this season. "I definitely think it's going to be a committee approach," Ryan said, according to the New York Daily... more
This would be a good time to renew your premium cable subscription. Hard Knocks is back. The award-winning documentary will begin its ninth season on Tuesday at 10 p.m. ET with an inside look at the first week of training camp with the Atlanta... more
Now that the Pro Football Hall of Fame has handed out its latest collection of gold jackets and Haunted Mansion sculptures, let's look ahead. Way ahead. Who are the first-ballot Hall of Famers playing in the NFL right now ? We start with some ground... more
The Cincinnati Bengals signed Andy Dalton to a new contract that competitively compensates the quarterback while giving the team an out if Dalton stagnates. Breer: Locker at a crossroads Jake�Locker's NFL future is still very much up in the air.... more
The Green Bay Packers and Brett Favre are, at long last, ready for their reunion. Or ready to schedule one, anyway. The Packers sent out a press release Sunday night teasing a joint announcement regarding Favre at Lambeau Field, which took place... more
Montee Ball has hit the shelf for the Denver Broncos. The second-year running back will undergo an appendectomy Monday that will sideline him for the rest of training camp and the preseason , NFL Media Insider Insider Ian Rapoport reported, per a... more
Former New York Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum said recently on NFL Network he expected Rex Ryan to find a role for Michael Vick in his offense -- even if Geno Smith broke camp as the team's starting quarterback. On Monday, Ryan dismissed the... more
The NFL preseason schedule kicked off Sunday night with the Hall of Fame Game in Canton. Here are six takeaways from the New York Giants' 17-13 win over the Buffalo Bills: 1. The Giants needed some good news in their backfield after David Wilson's... more
A fight has led to an injury for Atlanta Falcons second-round pick Ra'Shede Hageman. The rookie defensive end received medical attention after throwing a punch at center Joe Hawley during pass-rush drills on Sunday. An initial�ESPN.com report �stated... more
The San Francisco 49ers have parted ways with Jon Baldwin. The Niners announced Sunday they waived Baldwin after less than a year with the team. In a corresponding move, San Francisco claimed wide receiver L'Damian Washington off waivers from the... more
The Chicago Bears entered training camp with legitimate question marks behind Jay Cutler. They're still there. Jimmy Clausen and Jordan Palmer remain the two most likely replacements to inherit the backup role so capably held down by Josh McCown in... more
We haven't heard much about Hakeem Nicks in his first training camp with the Indianapolis Colts. Perhaps there's a reason for that. Colts offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton acknowledged Saturday that Nicks doesn't appear to be working at full... more
Jon Bon Jovi has made his play to dispel any speculation that his prospective ownership group intends on moving the Bills out of Buffalo. In an open letter titled "Why We're Bidding on the Buffalo Bills," Bon Jovi firmly committed to keeping the Bills... more
While the Pro Football Hall of Fame was busy welcoming new members on Saturday, several NFL teams held scrimmages as they gear up for the start of preseason. Here were some of the takeaways: 1. Brandin Cooks continues to look like he'll be an... more
Welcome to the Around The League End Around, a weekly look back at the world of the NFL. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good week for ... 1. San Antonio: Could the home of the Alamo and the Spurs be getting an NFL team ? Probably not, but... more
The San Francisco 49ers and Jim Harbaugh have pressed pause on contract talks. Niners CEO Jed York told Jim Kozimor on Yahoo! SportsTalk Live that he and Harbaugh mutually agreed to table talks toward a new deal until after the 2014 season. "We... more
Marshawn Lynch's holdout from Seattle Seahawks camp is over. The star running back was present at the team facility Thursday, ending a one-week holdout. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported the Seahawks moved money around in Lynch's existing... more
The Philadelphia Eagles found uncommon stability in Andy Reid, who served as the team's head coach from 1999 through the 2012 season. For perspective on how fortunate Philly was, the Cleveland Browns went through six coaches in that same span. They've had... more
Any hope for the 2014 Dallas Cowboys goes back to the health of Tony Romo. If the quarterback's back holds up, the Cowboys should be able to hang in the NFC East. If the back goes again, the No. 1 overall pick next April isn't crazy talk. Cowboys owner... more
This is Jay Cutler's year. Sound familiar? Predicting a monster season for Cutler has become something of a summer tradition in the NFL. Last year, we were told the arrival of quarterback whisperer Marc Trestman would fuel Cutler's rise. On Wednesday,... more
Andy Dalton believes it's only a matter of time before he works out a new deal with the Cincinnati Bengals. The fourth-year quarterback told NFL Media's Albert Breer on Wednesday that he's optimistic a contract extension is a "when" rather than an "if"... more
The Buffalo Bills have deepened their commitment to Fred Jackson. The Bills announced Wednesday that Jackson signed a contract extension with the team. Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports Jackson signed a... more
The New York Giants entered training camp hopeful that David Wilson could resume his career after last season's neck injury. On Tuesday, the team got a scare. Giants coach Tom Coughlin told reporters that Wilson was forced to exit practice after... more
The Pro Football Hall of Fame class of 2014 will be enshrined on Saturday. Each day this week, the Around the League crew will pick a player that we believe is also deserving of enshrinement. Kurt Warner had one of the strangest NFL careers of... more
The Seattle Seahawks wiped the floor with the Denver Broncos in the Super Bowl. This truth, and the Seahawks' proclivity to talk, apparently doesn't sit well with Broncos defensive tackle Kevin Vickerson. "---- Seattle," Vickerson told Paul Klee of... more
The New York Giants got good news on Odell Beckham, but they'll still be without their first-round pick for the foreseeable future. The Star-Ledger reported Tuesday that tests on Beckham's lingering hamstring injury came back negative, according to two... more
Eli Manning has never posted a completion percentage higher than 62.4 in his career. An extremely lofty goal has been set this season. New quarterbacks coach Danny Langsdorf told reporters on Monday he's challenged Manning to complete 70 percent of... more
Emmanuel Sanders spent the first four seasons of his career catching passes from Ben Roethlisberger. It's only taken him a few months with Peyton Manning to identify a key difference between the two star quarterbacks. "(From) a mental standpoint, I... more
We've known for a long time -- really, the whole time -- that Peyton Manning is a lovable square. This persona has helped make the quarterback both a hugely successful endorsement entity and a man uniformly respected by his peers. Manning is America's... more
Mark Sanchez has moved into the next stage of his NFL career, settling into the background as a Nick Foles understudy with the Eagles. The change of scenery comes at a good time for Sanchez, who had used up his surplus of goodwill with the New York... more
The Oakland Raiders imported several veteran names in the offseason hoping to bring the suffering franchise back to respectability. But a look at the team's true future begins with Khalil Mack. The Raiders used the No. 5 overall pick in the 2014 NFL... more
The New York Giants believe first-round pick Odell Beckham is exactly the type of talent who can help Eli Manning put last year's struggles in the rearview. Beckham has to be on the field to make a difference, of course. The rookie wide receiver... more
Vick Ballard was dealt another setback in his star-crossed career on Friday, suffering a lower leg injury believed to be a torn Achilles tendon . The Indianapolis Colts went nearly all of last season without Ballard, their leading rusher in 2012.... more
Johnny Manziel knew the questions were coming. His solution in his first training camp press conference with the Cleveland Browns was to address the situation himself in his opening remarks. "Me and coach (Mike) Pettine and (GM) Ray Farmer really... more
Another terrible setback for Vick Ballard. NFL Media's Ian Rapoport reports, per a source close to the player, that the Indianapolis Colts believe Ballard suffered a torn Achilles tendon in practice Friday. The running back will undergo tests to... more
Carl Nicks' frustrating run with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is over. The Buccaneers announced Friday that Nicks and the team have "mutually agreed that they will part ways." "I'd like to thank the Buccaneers organization for working with me as I... more
The San Francisco 49ers have a loose timetable in mind for All-Pro linebacker NaVorro Bowman. Niners defensive coordinator Vic Fangio told reporters on Friday that Bowman is not expected to return until the midpoint of the season, according to the... more
The Associated Press Welcome back to the Around The League End Around, a weekly look back at the world of the NFL. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good week for ... 1. Brian Hoyer: He might actually land a starting gig in... more
Marshawn Lynch will not be in attendance when the Seattle Seahawks open training camp. Former Seahawks teammate Michael Robinson broke the news on Thursday's edition of NFL Network's Inside Training Camp Live . "Marshawn Lynch just called me, we... more
Mike Tannenbaum expects a role for Michael Vick in the New York Jets' offense this season -- whether Vick starts a game or not. Tannenbaum, who served as the Jets' general manager from 2006-2012, believes Rex Ryan is drawn to the type of athleticism... more
Justin Blackmon's latest transgression won't end his career with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Jaguars owner Shad Khan told reporters Thursday there is no reason his team should sever ties with the troubled wide receiver following his Wednesday-night arrest... more
Cam Newton is a full-go for the start of Carolina Panthers training camp. Coach Ron Rivera told reporters Thursday that the franchise quarterback has been medically cleared and will be a full camp participant barring a setback with his surgically... more
The starting quarterback job in Cleveland might be Brian Hoyer's to lose. Browns coach Mike Pettine told Tony Grossi of ESPNCleveland.com on Wednesday that Hoyer, not first-round pick Johnny Manziel, will work primarily with the first team at the... more
Rex Ryan's protégé laid out a timetable for his quarterback competition in Cleveland. Ryan is taking a more open-ended approach with his own QB battle. The sixth-year New York Jets coach told reporters on Wednesday in Cortland, New York, there's... more
Sidney Rice's NFL career has come to an abrupt conclusion. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday that Rice has decided to retire due to concussion concerns, according to a source who has spoken with the wide receiver. ProFootballTalk first... more
Tavon Austin's rookie season with the St. Louis Rams will be remembered as one long tease. The speedy wide receiver had moments of pure electricity, most notably a 310-yard, three-TD explosion against the Indianapolis Colts. But there were also... more
The San Francisco 49ers will have to settle for one out of two. Tight end Vernon Davis reported to Niners camp on Wednesday. The same cannot be said for guard Alex Boone. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported that Boone is not reporting on... more
Former NFL coach Tony Dungy found himself in the PR Bermuda Triangle on Monday when he told a Tampa newspaper he would not have drafted Michael Sam because of possible distractions associated with the NFL's first openly gay player. Dungy did his best... more
Atlanta Falcons coach Mike Smith has confirmed that wide receiver Julio Jones will be available for the start of training camp on Friday. But look for Atlanta to take a cautious approach with the franchise star. "He will be limited in terms of his... more
The Jacksonville Jaguars will begin the regular season without wide receiver Ace Sanders. The second-year wide receiver told reporters on a conference call Tuesday that he is facing a four-game NFL suspension. Sanders doesn't plan on appealing his ban... more
Danny Woodhead and the San Diego Chargers are staying in business together. The Chargers announced Tuesday that the versatile running back has agreed on a two-year contract extension with the team. Financial terms haven't been disclosed. Woodhead had... more
Well, this is random: It appears Marshawn Lynch uses red velvet ropes to cordon off his Lamborghini Aventador Roadster in public settings. Don't act like this is a totally shocking Beast Mode-related development. @FieldGulls beastmode's Lambo, complete... more
Around The League's Training Camp Preview �series will identify three things to watch for the teams in each division this summer. Next up is the NFC North . Green Bay Packers 1. The Packers teamed Julius Peppers and Clay Matthews with dreams of 30... more
The Cleveland Browns don't yet know who their starting quarterback will be in Week 1 . What they do know is the timetable for when they'd like to make that decision. Browns coach Mike Pettine told reporters at team headquarters on Monday that a... more
The best things about being drafted: 1) You're now in, you know, the NFL. 2) You can (potentially) buy your mom a house. 3) You will become a player in Madden . They can't take that last one away from you, either. Everybody goes through a... more
The Houston Texans have released offensive tackle Brennan Williams. Williams, the 89th overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, was waived with the failed physical designation on Monday, according to ESPN Boston . Williams didn't play a snap as a rookie... more
Here's something that might make you feel old: Sebastian Janikowski is about to enter his 15th season in the NFL. It was way back in 2000 when the Oakland Raiders used a first-round pick on Janikowski. Oakland remains the last team to use that... more
Nick Foles is about to face something he's never dealt with on this level: expectations. The Philadelphia Eagles quarterback was one of the league's biggest surprises in 2013, passing for 27 touchdowns against just two interceptions over 13 games.... more
The Buffalo Bills will begin training camp activities without Marcell Dareus. The Bills added the fourth-year defensive tackle to their active/non-football injury list Saturday. The reason Dareus was placed on the list is unknown at this time.... more
Mike Williams doesn't have a guaranteed roster spot as he begins his first training camp with the Buffalo Bills. The summer will be a test for the veteran wide receiver, who enters competition with the benefit of good health. Williams made it through... more
Peyton Manning mastered the quarterback position during the regular season in 2013, putting up passing records that could stand for decades. The question now becomes: How do you follow that up? Denver Broncos coach John Fox was asked on Friday's... more
The Buffalo Bills haven't appeared in the playoffs since the 1999 season. It's a drought nearly as painful as the team's four straight conference titles were impressive. The Bills don't seem to be anybody's darling pick to make noise in 2014, and... more
The New Orleans Saints enter the 2014 season with an improved defense, top-tier coaching, satiated stars �and one of the best quarterbacks on the planet. This is a time-tested recipe for Super Bowl trips. Saints players have the right to be confident.... more
Rob Gronkowski and timetables. It feels like the two have been sharing company for years now. Perhaps that's because they have. Arm, back and knee surgeries have slowed the New England Patriots' mighty tight end, costing him 14 regular season games and... more
The NFL draft is taking a break from the Big Apple. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said Thursday that the league has narrowed down its 2015 NFL Draft options to Los Angeles and Chicago. The event has been held in New York City every year since 1965 and... more
The Jacksonville Jaguars will have to continue to be patient with free-agent addition Dekoda Watson. The Florida Times-Union reported Thursday that the linebacker could begin training camp on the physically unable to perform list after undergoing... more
The San Francisco 49ers will open up business this season at the new Levi's Stadium. Will there be a day when the Oakland Raiders also call Santa Clara home? The Raiders have one year remaining on their lease at O.co Coliseum and have been... more
It's hard to make a case that the Dallas Cowboys got better this offseason. Jason Hatcher, the team's 2013 sack leader, departed for the Washington Redskins in free agency. Longtime star DeMarcus Ware was a victim of the team's salary cap woes and ended... more
Fun fact time: Since the NFL's last realignment in 2002, no NFC South team has ever repeated as division champion. 0-for-11 and counting. This history doesn't exactly bode well for the Carolina Panthers, who claimed the division crown in 2013. New... more
Julius Thomas had a breakout year for the Denver Broncos in 2013, but John Elway isn't using Jimmy Graham's recent deal as a road map for Thomas' ongoing contract negotiations. "Even though Julius had a tremendous year for us, he's only (played) 23... more
Armond Armstead's NFL career is over before it started. The New England Patriots defensive lineman announced his retirement on Wednesday. Armstead, 23, signed with the Patriots last February after spending one season with the CFL's Toronto... more
A fine example of the NFL's status as a major TV power player can be found via the league's new Thursday Night Football deal with CBS . Thursday is the most important night of the week in television advertising, and CBS beat out several competitors... more
Ndamukong Suh vs. "Tank Dog": Who ya got? Suh needs no introduction around these parts ... we hope. Tank Dog is a personal trainer and regular on Discovery Channel's new reality show, American Muscle . He's also a Green Bay Packers fan, leading to an... more
The Dallas Cowboys are moving on from Kyle Orton. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday the Cowboys have informed Orton he will be released , according to a source who has spoken to the player. ESPN's Adam Schefter first reported �the team's... more
Carolina Panthers defensive end Greg Hardy pleaded not guilty on Tuesday to charges stemming from an early-hours altercation with an ex-girlfriend in May. The Charlotte Observer reported that Hardy arrived at Mecklenburg County Courthouse wearing a... more
Don't expect Greg Hardy and the Carolina Panthers to do business in the next 24 hours. NFL Media's Albert Breer reported Monday that a long-term deal between Hardy and the Panthers is unlikely before Tuesday's deadline to reach deals with players under... more
Matt Schaub was a polarizing acquisition by the Oakland Raiders -- at least by people not associated with the Oakland Raiders. To many outsiders, Schaub is in irreversible decline , a veteran quarterback fortunate to be in line for an NFL starting job... more
EJ Manuel's rookie season in the NFL was largely compromised by an inability to stay healthy. The Buffalo Bills quarterback was sidelined three times last season with knee injuries, leading to speculation that Manuel might not be durable enough to... more
Mike Tomlin isn't giving any hints on how he plans to deploy his backfield options this season. The Pittsburgh Steelers coach told NFL Media's Lindsay Rhodes and Brian Baldinger on Friday that he plans to let the training camp and preseason play of... more
Shawn Hubbard/Baltimore Ravens A view of the newly extended goal posts at M&T Bank Stadium. Only the sharpest eyes will be able to notice the subtle difference to NFL fields this season. The uprights of all goal posts will be five feet... more
LaVon Brazill's latest suspension has cost him his job. The Indianapolis Colts announced Friday that they have waived Brazill, one week after the wide receiver was suspended indefinitely for violating the NFL's Policy and Program for Substances of... more
Change happens fast in the NFL. For proof, look no further than the defense of the Baltimore Ravens. Terrell Suggs and Haloti Ngata are the only two starters left from the Ravens team that won Super Bowl XLVII in 2013 . "When you have the (roster)... more
The NFL's International Series will continue in 2014 with three games scheduled in London. The Oakland Raiders and Miami Dolphins are up first with a Sept. 28 matchup at Wembley Stadium. Raiders running back Maurice Jones-Drew played in the most recent... more
We never could've predicted we'd be writing up a post that connected Ralph Wilson and Justin Timberlake. And yet, here we are. Timberlake's The 20/20 Experience World Tour rolled through Buffalo on Wednesday night with a one-night stand at First Niagara... more
Click HERE for an in-depth look at the top trends from all four years of the Top 100 Players series. NFL Network's The Top 100 Players Of 2014 countdown reached its conclusion Wednesday with Peyton Manning sitting in the big chair . We imagine... more
What was the most impressive aspect of Peyton Manning's 2013 season? Was it the 55 touchdowns ? The 5,477 passing yards ? The unprecedented fifth MVP award ? The third trip to the Super Bowl ? Perhaps the most amazing achievement was the timing of it... more
Tanard Jackson appears to have again been undermined by off-the-field demons . A league spokesman announced Wednesday that the Washington Redskins safety has been suspended indefinitely for violating the league's policy on substance abuse. The... more
You can safely assume Richard Sherman will come up when the final 10 names in NFL Network's The Top 100 Players of 2014 countdown are revealed�tonight. That nice bit of listacle real estate doesn't mean the Seattle Seahawks cornerback is on board... more
Tyrann Mathieu knows how it feels to watch a promising football career slipping through your fingers. The Arizona Cardinals safety succeeded in moving past the off-the-field troubles that marked his college days at LSU, crafting a new narrative as... more
Around The League will profile the top 25 players we see Making the Leap in 2014. No. 4 on the list: Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell. Why Bell is on the list It's easy to see why the Steelers were so eager to make Le'Veon Bell a key... more
Cleveland Browns coach Mike Pettine made it clear this spring that he doesn't see his backfield as a one-man show. Ben Tate -- signed to a free-agent deal in March -- figures to see the most touches. Third-round pick Terrance West impressed coaches... more
Friday marked the fifth anniversary of the death of Steve McNair. McNair was shot and killed by his 20-year-old girlfriend, Sahel Kazemi, in a murder-suicide on July 4, 2009. McNair -- just two years removed from an NFL field -- was 36 years old. An... more
It's not easy being a Detroit Lions fan. Unless you were around during the Dwight Eisenhower administration, you have no life connection to a Lions team that could call itself a world champion. The Lions are 0-for-48 in Super Bowl tries and have... more
Robert Griffin III is excited for a fresh start with the "ulterior motives" -free Washington Redskins in 2014. DeSean Jackson is the most high-profile new toy in the quarterback's arsenal this season, but it's a returning player -- tight end Jordan... more
What can the Baltimore Ravens expect out of Ray Rice this season? The seventh-year running back is coming off a season in which he battled hip and leg injuries and averaged a career-worst 3.1 yards per carry. Even worse was his offseason, which... more
Josh Gordon's name didn't come up in the trio of suspensions announced Thursday on the eve of a holiday weekend for the NFL. It's possible we won't know the fate of the Cleveland Browns wide receiver for several more weeks. NFL Media Insider Ian... more
The Miami Dolphins will begin the 2014 season without former first-round pick Dion Jordan. The Dolphins announced Thursday that Jordan has been suspended without pay for the first four games of the regular season for violating the NFL's policy on... more
Robert Griffin III -- like most players and coaches during the NFL's Happy Season -- is in an optimistic state of mind. The Washington Redskins quarterback is free of the drama that came to define his strained relationship with former coach Mike... more
Jimmy Graham's bid to be formally recognized as something other than a tight end fell short on Wednesday. Contemporaries of the Saints star are taking note. Arbitrator Stephen Burbank ruled Wednesday that Graham is a tight end, ending a process that... more
Around The League will profile the top 25 players we see Making he Leap in 2014. No. 7 on the list: Denver Broncos running back Montee Ball. Why Ball is on the list There's no piece of real estate more coveted for an NFL running back than the spot... more
ROSENTHAL'S TOP 10 HANZUS' TOP 10 SESSLER'S TOP 10 WESSELING'S TOP 10 PATRA'S TOP 10 We've reached the end of the yellow brick road on the NFL Network's The Top 100 Players of 2014 countdown. On Wednesday night, players 10 through 1... more
Chris Johnson doesn't seem to be putting too much stock in offseason talk of a time share in the New York Jets' backfield this season. In a Tuesday phone conversation with Around The League, Johnson spoke confidently about being the Jets' primary... more
You might remember a time when Tony Romo was regularly criticized for spending too much of his free time playing golf. It was stupid. The window for links-related criticism has apparently closed. The Dallas Cowboys quarterback recently revealed he... more
If you've ever wondered how Brandon Weeden would react to a mean tweet, wonder no more. In a video posted on the Cowboys' official website , cameras roll as Weeden and other Dallas players read negatives tweets about themselves. The video is a takeoff... more
Ben Tate might not find anybody who scares him in the Browns' running back room, but he'll have company handling the workload on Sundays. Browns coach Mike Pettine told The Plain Dealer that Cleveland will embrace a committee approach as the team... more
Bernard Pollard: Hard-hitting Tennessee Titans safety. Enemy of the state of Massachusetts . Bourgeoning inventor and entrepreneur? Pollard is the inventor of the Smart Tray, a contraption that fits over a bathroom sink and can serve as a platform for... more
In the Nicholas Dawidoff book Collision Low Crossers , which chronicled the New York Jets' turbulent 2011 season, Jets coaches would marvel at the natural athleticism of Antonio Cromartie, who could run and change directions like a gazelle despite his... more
The 2013 season was a bittersweet one for Jay Cutler. The Chicago Bears quarterback made definite strides as a player, improving his fundamentals under the tutelage of head coach and noted QB guru Marc Trestman and offensive coordinator Aaron Kromer.... more
As rookie Sammy Watkins was completing preparations to travel to the 2014 NFL Draft, he received a visitor in the form of Cleveland Browns general manager Ray Farmer. "We just chatted up about life, about who am I, what type of guy I am," Watkins told... more
Ozzie Newsome has a well-earned reputation as one the NFL's best general managers. Still, it's hard to deny the Baltimore Ravens went through their 2013 title defense season low on offensive firepower. The decision to trade Anquan Boldin over salary... more
The 1990s were a great decade to come of age as an NFL fan. On the occassion of�'90s Week on NFL Network, I'd like to share what I loved about a fun and endearingly goofy era for the game. There will be no poetic waxing about Barry Sanders, Troy... more
Playbookgate has quickly receded from memory, your classic June NFL storyline that really wasn't really a story at all. Still, it's probably worth hearing out the man whose wedding served as ground zero for the mini-controversy. You'll remember it was... more
Brandon Lloyd will spend the summer trying to catch on with the San Francisco 49ers after a season away from the game. Lloyd's NFL hiatus wasn't necessarily the wide receiver's choice, but the year of unemployment didn't exactly induce a grand... more
The Raiders signed James Jones this offseason to be the team's No. 1 option in the passing game. After Jones, there are jobs to be won on Oakland's wide receiver depth chart. One name to keep an eye on this summer: Andre Holmes. The 6-foot-4, 210-pound... more
The son of the GOAT has found another home. Jerry Rice Jr. has signed with the Washington Redskins. Initial news of the deal comes from Rice Jr. himself, who posted a picture of his contract on Instagram. The Redskins later confirmed the wide... more
The Philadelphia Eagles plan to use multiple players in their approach to replace DeSean Jackson's production in 2014. One of them will be Darren Sproles, the versatile running back acquired from the New Orleans Saints in March. But don't take Sproles'... more
It's best to be selective when processing the oceans of unsolicited advice for Johnny Manziel. Joe Montana falls in the category of people worth hearing out. The San Francisco 49ers legend was one of the most famous athletes alive during his 1980s... more
You're starting an NFL franchise tomorrow. They're named the London Fog and the English are madferrit. Under some loophole in the expansion draft system, you have the opportunity to pluck either Cam Newton or Andrew Luck from their respective teams.... more
Brandon Flowers' decision to join the San Diego Chargers is both business and personal. The veteran cornerback, released by the Kansas City Chiefs last week, explained Wednesday on NFL Network how he reacted to the move and his motivation behind... more
Around The League will profile the top 25 players we see Making the Leap in 2014. No. 12 on the list: Washington Redskins tight end Jordan Reed. Why Jordan is on the list A hard truth gleaned from the unenviable task of 2013 Redskins tape study:... more
The hype train is rolling fast for Lance Dunbar, who's become a trendy pick as a breakout player for the Dallas Cowboys in 2014. Is it deserved? That would probably depend on your expectations for Dunbar, a 5-foot-8, 188-pound change-of-pace back who... more
We've gained a level of clarity in the mysterious case of Knowshon Moreno . NFL Media's Albert Breer reported Monday the Miami Dolphins running back recently underwent arthroscopic knee surgery and will miss about a month, according to a team source.... more
The New York Giants didn't make a substantial move to improve their tight end group in the offseason. General manager Jerry Reese seems to be confident their in-house options will surprise people. The Giants likely will hit training camp with a... more
We've reached the quietest portion of the NFL calendar. This seems like the right time to bust out yet another edition of the ATL Mailbag. @NFL_ATL what team is most likely to pull a Spain be very good one season then just bad the next ? #ATLMailbag... more
Count Antonio Cromartie in Rex Ryan's camp on the subject of Playbookgate. In Greg Bedard's The MMQB profile on Mike Pettine, the Browns coach and former Jets defensive coordinator revealed that Tom Brady once hinted to a New York assistant that... more
When the Seattle Seahawks acquired Terrelle Pryor in April, we immediately heard speculation about Pryor changing positions . Russell Wilson is fairly entrenched at quarterback in Seattle, of course, and Pryor certainly has the athleticism to play... more
Johnathan Franklin's NFL career has reached a sudden conclusion. Packers coach Mike McCarthy announced Thursday that the running back won't return for a second season with the team due to a neck injury. "I have some unfortunate news about Johnathan... more
Brett Favre continues to run away with the title of the NFL's most fascinating post-retirement entity. The legendary former quarterback is living the good life in Mississippi these days, coaching high school football, tending to his land, and working... more
Adrian Peterson has been the unquestioned face of the Minnesota Vikings for years now, remaining the franchise's heart through unending roster turnover. The former MVP, who turns 30 next March, understands there will be a time when he'll be deemed a... more
A truism of NFL spring and summer practices: fighting happens. It's inevitable. Endless repetition, rising temperatures and the hyper-competitive nature of professional athletes creates a potent cocktail for teammate-on-teammate aggression. Brandt:... more
Who's the most underrated quarterback in the NFL today? If you ask us -- and let's just say you did -- the top two choices have to be Ben Roethlisberger and Philip Rivers. Both quarterbacks were revealed on Wednesday's episode of NFL Network's The Top... more
The New York Jets continue to send clear messages that Geno Smith is a heavy favorite to begin the 2014 season as the team's starting quarterback. Offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg told reporters Wednesday that Smith will get 70 to 75 percent of... more
The Atlanta Falcons are now taking a closer look at Jonathan Vilma. Top 20 Games of 2013 From shootouts to slugfests, Elliot Harrison is counting down the "Top 20 Games of 2013." Did your team made the cut? READ NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport... more
The Dallas Cowboys' defense was egregiously terrible in 2013, allowing the third-most yards from scrimmage in NFL history. A new season brings optimism for every team, but the Cowboys have reason to be concerned their defense might not be much... more
Jim Harbaugh has developed a reputation as a player's coach in his time with the San Francisco 49ers. It makes his comments about Vernon Davis and Alex Boone particularly eyebrow-raising. Davis and Boone -- both seeking new contracts with two years... more
The Houston Texans took the drama out of their quarterback competition on Tuesday. Now they've taken a quarterback out of the mix entirely. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday that T.J. Yates has been released , according to a team source.... more
The Washington Redskins are as happy as any team in football to leave behind the 2013 season, a dumpster-fire campaign that knocked the entire organization on its metaphorical backside. New year, new attitude. That according to Robert Griffin III,... more
Early last week, Giants quarterback Eli Manning told a gathering of reporters at OTAs that, now seven weeks out from ankle surgery, he was healthy enough to play if the season were to begin the next day. Some 1,500 miles away, Tony Romo was... more
Josh Freeman doesn't have a job. He's taking steps in the hopes of changing that. NFL Media senior analyst Gil Brandt tweeted Monday that Freeman has workouts planned with former NFL coach Jon Gruden and quarterback guru Terry Shea over the next... more
Brian Hoyer will enter training camp with a lead over Johnny Manziel in the Cleveland Browns' quarterback competition. A hardly "insurmountable" lead, of course. One unclear aspect of this camp battle is how Browns players feel about the situation.... more
Around The League will profile the top 25 players we see Making the Leap in 2014. No. 20 on the list: Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Markus Wheaton. Why Markus is on the list This is a time of transition in the Steelers' wide receiving corps.... more
What a difference a year makes for the Cleveland Browns. Top 10 teams with most Tweets (May 13-June 12) Team Number of Tweets Cleveland Browns 49,645 Dallas Cowboys 45,496 Washington Redskins 31,045 Buffalo Bills 29,014 Seattle Seahawks... more
Mike Adams has found a home. Just days after admitting he had started to feel anxiety about his status on the NFL's unemployment line, Adams has signed with the Indianapolis Colts. Adams is a 10-year veteran who started 10 games for the Denver... more
Chuck Noll passed away Friday at the age of 82, leaving in his wake a masterful football legacy. Rod Woodson was there for the end. Take a look back at the Hall of Fame career of long time Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Chuck Noll The Hall of Fame... more
Patience will have to carry the day in Arizona in matters related to Tyrann Mathieu. Cardinals coach Bruce Arians said Thursday at the conclusion of mandatory minicamp that expecting Mathieu and nose tackle Alameda Ta'amu -- both recovering from torn... more
The St. Louis Rams have signed No. 2 overall pick Greg Robinson ... and everyone else in their draft class. NFL Media's Albert Breer reported Thursday that the Rams have signed all 11 players selected by the team last month at Radio City Music Hall,... more
Adrian Peterson tore his ACL in December 2011. Von Miller tore his ACL in December 2013. The Denver Broncos linebacker is acutely aware of this back story similarity. Peterson came within nine yards of setting the NFL's all-time single-season... more
The New York Jets aren't ready to give up on Stephen Hill. The third-year wide receiver has struggled to find his way since the Jets made him a second-round pick in 2012. Inconsistency and troublesome knees have kept the former Georgia Tech star from... more
Tyrann Mathieu is no stranger to adversity. The Arizona Cardinals safety is facing some now as he works his way back from a serious knee injury . Mathieu faced a different kind of personal challenge in college. He got kicked off LSU's football team for... more
We officially have a team in place for the new season of Hard Knocks . The Atlanta Falcons announced Thursday they have agreed to take part in the ninth season of the acclaimed HBO documentary series. NFL Films confirmed the partnership and added a... more
A lot has happened since Tony Romo took over as starting quarterback of the Dallas Cowboys in 2006. There's been steady production, big pay days, physical setbacks, and yes, more than a fair share of disappointment for both player and organization.... more
The Atlanta Falcons are moving on following the stunning season-ending injury suffered by linebacker Sean Weatherspoon on Tuesday. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday on NFL Total Access that the Falcons are taking a hard look at former... more
In hindsight, it's kind of crazy it took so long for the people of Dockers to get into business with Jim Harbaugh, perhaps the most recognizable khakis fan in the game right now. The above ad from the dress-pants giant features the San Francisco... more
The Carolina Panthers will enter the 2014 season without a single wide receiver who had a catch for the team in 2013. Steve Smith, Brandon LaFell, Ted Ginn Jr. and Domenik Hixon all moved on, leaving the defending NFC South champions with a major... more
Chip Kelly left no doubt who was running the show in Philadelphia when DeSean Jackson was sent packing in March. Kelly's confidence was on full display with the move. The coach successfully installed a high-octane offense. Now came the bold declaration... more
Colin Kaepernick's unusual deal with the San Francisco 49ers continues to have reverberations across the NFL landscape. That includes the Cam Newton camp. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday on NFL Total Access that Kaepernick's contract --... more
Atlanta Falcons linebacker Sean Weatherspoon is done for the year. The Falcons announced Tuesday that Weatherspoon will miss the entire 2014 season after suffering an Achilles tendon injury at practice. "During Sean's run today with our medical... more
Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Sean Smith was arrested early Monday morning after crashing into a light post in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. According to a report released by the Kansas City Police Department, the arresting officer stated that Smith... more
The Denver Broncos have locked up their first-round pick. The team announced Tuesday that it signed cornerback signed Bradley Roby, the No. 31 overall pick in last month's draft. The #Broncos signed first-round pick @BradRoby_1 . The full 2014... more
Jim Irsay isn't ready to apologize. He's not even sure he should. The Indianapolis Colts owner's primary focus right now is on fighting the cycle of addiction that has haunted his family for generations. In his first extended interview since his March... more
Here's something pretty cool . David wanted to add some flair for his marriage proposal to Amy, a die-hard Baltimore Ravens fan. His big idea was to drop to one knee in front of the team's practice facility while an acquaintance captured the moment... more
Joe Namath can relate to Johnny Manziel. Namath was never a stranger to the spotlight during a Hall of Fame career spent mostly with the New York Jets. Tales of the quarterback's nightlife were nearly as legendary as his play -- and his play was... more
It appears we've learned the identity of Jermichael Finley's "mystery team." NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports that Finley visited with the New England Patriots on Friday, according to a source informed of the situation. ESPN's Adam Caplan... more
The Denver Broncos have yet to finish a deal with first-round pick Bradley Roby. They have taken care of their second selection, however. The Broncos announced Monday that they have signed wide receiver Cody Latimer, their second-round pick (56th... more
The New York Jets are nearly finished with business related to their monster 2014 draft class. The Jets announced Monday that they have signed safety Calvin Pryor, the 18th overall pick. We have signed 1st round draft pick S Calvin Pryor (@CP3_850 )... more
Injuries are a way of life in the NFL. Nobody knows this more than the Dallas Cowboys, who will spend their summer trying to figure out how to replace Sean Lee. Outside of cryogenically freezing Lee until September, there's not much that could've... more
The last time we saw Julio Jones, the dynamic Atlanta Falcons wide receiver was limping off the field at the Georgia Dome with a broken foot . Jones underwent surgery on Oct. 15. The recovery process continues for Jones, who has not taken part in OTAs.... more
HOLLYWOOD, Calif. -- You want one word to describe how the rookies in Los Angeles for the NFLPA Rookie Premiere event are feeling right now? First-round draft pick signing tracker No. 1 pick Jadeveon Clowney has yet to sign with the Texans. Find out... more
Dez Bryant is under the (rightful) belief he deserves a pay raise that would make him among the game's highest-paid wide receivers. The Dallas Cowboys appear at least open to making that a reality this summer. Cowboys vice president Stephen Jones... more
Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross sees the NFL making its return to Los Angeles sooner rather than later. Ross predicted on Saturday that L.A. will "certainly" have an NFL franchise in the next five years, according to NFL Media's Jeff Darlington.... more
The NFLPA Rookie Premiere event kept rolling Saturday morning, as a collection of top rookies played dress up at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. For fans, this is the first look at rookies wearing the home duds of the team that selected them in the 2014... more
The Detroit Lions aren't sold on Nick Fairley. The organization made that clear when it decided not to pick up the defensive tackle's fifth-year option this offseason. Lions general manager Martin Mayhew was up front with Fairley -- telling the... more
Expect to see a more svelte Aaron Rodgers when the Green Bay Packers open the 2014 season. The star quarterback told ESPN's Bob Holtzman at Packers OTAs on Thursday that he dropped 11 pounds in the offseason. Rodgers is attempting to gain more... more
Josh Gordon is dealing with another off-the-field issue. The Browns wide receiver, already facing a possible lengthy suspension for a second violation of the NFL's substance abuse policy, was ticketed in Cleveland last weekend for speeding.... more
HOLLYWOOD -- Tajh Boyd has had a front-row seat for what appears to be a burgeoning quarterback controversy for the New York Jets this summer. Jets coach Rex Ryan has preached the organization's competition mantra , while Michael Vick continues to... more
Welcome to the Around The League End Around, a weekly look back at the world of the NFL. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good week for ... 1. Brett Kern: Fellow punters will one day erect a statue for Kern, who defeated Titans teammate... more
The San Diego Chargers have taken care of business related to their 2014 draft class. The Chargers announced Thursday that cornerback Jason Verrett, the 25th overall pick, has signed a four-year contract with the team. Jason Verrett just signed his... more
The St. Louis Rams invested a third-round pick on running back Tre Mason. Could the former Auburn star become an immediate fixture on offense? Mason said Thursday that Rams coaches told him he will compete for the starting job in the team's... more
Jairus Byrd has gone under the knife. New Orleans Saints coach Sean Payton told reporters that Byrd missed practice Thursday to undergo surgery to relieve a disc issue in his back, according to The Times-Picayune . Payton said Byrd, a prize... more
While the Dallas Cowboys try to process the devastating news regarding Sean Lee, the club must also find a way to move forward without its defensive linchpin. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday on "NFL Total Access" that the Cowboys... more
Humbling times for Clipboard Jesus. Charlie Whitehurst spent the first five seasons of his NFL career as a JC-haired backup wearing No. 6. When the quarterback signed with the Tennessee Titans in March, his customary No. 6 was off the market --... more
Malcolm Glazer, who purchased the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1995 and hoisted the team's first Super Bowl trophy eight years later, died Wednesday morning at the age of 85. Glazer served as a guiding force in the Buccaneers' rise as a respected NFL... more
Michael Vick made waves last week when he explained he wasn't in an open competition with Geno Smith for the New York Jets' starting quarterback job. It didn't take long into his Wednesday media availability for Jets coach Rex Ryan to get asked... more
The New York Jets will be without one of their starting offensive linemen for the foreseeable future. Jets coach Rex Ryan announced Wednesday that guard Willie Colon will undergo arthroscopic surgery on his knee after suffering an injury during a... more
Domenik Hixon's debut season with the Chicago Bears is over before it began. The veteran wide receiver announced Tuesday on Facebook that he has torn his ACL for the third time. Hixon, who previously tore his right ACL in 2010 and 2011, appeared to... more
Pete Carroll is thinking about tapping a big-ticket item as Golden Tate's replacement as Seattle's punt returner in 2014. At the opening of Seahawks OTAs on Tuesday, Carroll told reporters that All-Pro safety Earl Thomas would handle punt-return... more
More trouble has found the Baltimore Ravens backfield. Rookie running back Lorenzo Taliaferro is facing two misdemeanor charges after a weekend arrest outside a restaurant in his hometown of Williamsburg, Virginia. According to an incident report... more
The NFL decided Mike Pouncey needed to be evaluated by a team of mental health professionals before playing football in 2014. That evaluation has yet to happen, and the Miami Dolphins center doesn't sound particularly interested in what comes next.... more
The moment of clarity is fast approaching for NFL fans holding out hope their team will be featured on the next season of Hard Knocks . Offseason Dates The NFL offseason workout program calendar has been released for all 32 teams. Find out your... more
A common pre-draft sentiment regarding Johnny Manziel had the Texas A&M quarterback playing a Fran Tarkenton-type in the NFL. Brooks: Quarterback reboots Three teams selected a QB in the first round of the 2014 NFL�Draft. What do they all have in... more
The Seattle Seahawks have parted ways with one of their 2014 draft picks. The team announced Friday that it had waived offensive tackle Garrett Scott with the non-football illness designation. Scott, the 199th overall pick in the sixth round, was... more
Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay has been charged with two misdemeanors in connection with a March traffic stop that led to his arrest on suspicion of intoxicated driving. In paperwork obtained Friday by NFL Media, the Hamilton County Prosecuting... more
Andy Dalton has found success in his first three seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals. Relative success, anyway. The Bengals have qualified for the postseason all three seasons Dalton has been starter, but the team has followed each berth with a... more
The San Francisco 49ers have locked up their first-round pick. First-round draft pick signing tracker No. 1 pick Jadeveon Clowney has yet to sign with the Texans. Find out which first-rounders have contracts secured. More... The Niners... more
Broncos safety T.J. Ward has been charged with simple assault and disturbing the peace after an incident at a Denver nightclub earlier this month, according to authorities. Both charges are misdemeanors. Ward appeared in court Friday. A warrant had... more
Richard Sherman is never one to back down in a war of words. Enter Patrick Peterson. The Arizona Cardinals star didn't hold back Thursday when asked about Sherman's claims that he's the NFL's best cornerback. "I don't want to get in a debate as... more
Michael Vick is no stranger to quarterback competitions. Just last year he won a training camp battle with Nick Foles in Philadelphia. Foles won the war, of course, which led to Vick changing his work address in the offseason. But Vick was quick... more
Chris Johnson will take his time before making an on-field debut with the New York Jets. The veteran running back -- who signed with the Jets in April -- told reporters Thursday that his surgically repaired knee feels good, but he'll probably sit out... more
Don't worry about Tony Romo. That's the message from the Dallas Cowboys quarterback himself, who has absolutely no concerns about making it through a 16-game season after his second back surgery in as many years. "There's no question in my mind,... more
The Houston Texans might have to get used to life without Andre Johnson. The Pro Bowl wide receiver is on the record saying that he doesn't plan to take part in voluntary organized team activities when they begin next week. NFL Media Insider Ian... more
The 2013 Seattle Seahawks used their underdog status as a rallying cry in their run to a Super Bowl title. During the team's celebratory visit to the White House on Wednesday, President Barack Obama explained why he related to "the best football team in... more
The Jacksonville Jaguars appear to be very serious about keeping Blake Bortles off the field until 2015. In a Tuesday appearance on NFL Network's "NFL Total Access," Jaguars coach Gus Bradley once again reiterated the team's desire to sit Bortles, the... more
What do Rob Gronkowski and Julian Edelman have in common with Ryan Gosling and Macaulay Culkin? Nothing. Literally nothing. That said, they do share some connective tissue. The back story: Last year, Gosling was photographed wearing a T-shirt that... more
The future of the Buffalo Bills remains very much in the air, but there are encouraging signs moving trucks won't be rolling into Orchard Park anytime soon. On Tuesday at the Spring League Meeting in Atlanta, a source with strong knowledge of the Bills... more
New Orleans Saints owner Tom Benson was taken away from the Spring League Meeting in an ambulance on Tuesday after a fall. Greg Bensel, the Saints' senior VP of communications, told NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport that the 86-year-old Benson is "OK."... more
When Drew Brees sees Johnny Manziel, he can't help but think of Reggie Bush. Like Manziel, Bush was the subject of tremendous hype upon entering the NFL after a wildly successful college career. Bush landed with the New Orleans Saints as the No. 2... more
If you're all caught up on "Game Of Thrones," you're now familiar with the man they call "The Mountain." Gregor "The Mountain" Clegane is played by Hafthor Bjornsson, who, when not slaying peasants for fun on premium cable, makes a living as a... more
Miami Dolphins safety Don Jones, who was suspended for negative tweets about Michael Sam during the 2014 NFL Draft, has been reinstated by the team. Fox Sports 1's Alex Marvez reported Monday that Jones was reinstated after successfully completing... more
Rod Marinelli is going the "tough love" route with Bruce Carter. The weakside linebacker struggled in his adjustment from Rob Ryan's 3-4 to Monte Kiffin's Tampa-2 scheme last season, even getting benched in October for poor play. Carter acknowledged his... more
Welcome to the Around The League End Around, a weekly(ish) look back at the world of the NFL. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good week for ... 1. Michael Sam: When's the last time a seventh-round draft pick got his own introductory news... more
The Oakland Raiders wasted no time getting business done with their top pick. First-round draft pick signing tracker No. 1 pick Jadeveon Clowney has yet to sign with the Texans. Find out which first-rounders have contracts secured. More... NFL... more
The New York Jets continue to send signals that Geno Smith is a heavy favorite to be the team's Week 1�starter. In an interview with WFAN-AM on Thursday, Jets coach Rex Ryan said Smith "knows the offense forward and backwards" and is "going to be hard... more
Former New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez was indicted Thursday on two counts of first-degree murder related to the deaths of two men outside a Boston nightclub in 2012. Hernandez is accused of murdering Daniel Abreu and Safiro Furtado on... more
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant says he's never been more physically fit than he is right now. "I am in the best shape that I've ever been," Bryant said Tuesday, according to ESPN.com . Bryant knows what's at stake as he enters the final... more
Josh Johnson wasn't out of work for long. The veteran quarterback signed a one-year contract with the San Francisco 49ers on Wednesday, two days after being released by the Cincinnati Bengals. Johnson and Niners coach Jim Harbaugh have legitimate... more
Don't rule out the possible return of Miles Austin to the Dallas Cowboys. Coach Jason Garrett said this week that the team is "absolutely" open to re-signing the wide receiver, who was released by the team in March. "We love Miles Austin, we... more
The Chicago Bears are the first team to get their first-round draft pick under contract. First-round draft pick signing tracker No. 1 pick Jadeveon Clowney has yet to sign with the Texans. Find out which first-rounders have contracts secured. More...... more
Tony Romo is on the right path. Dallas Cowboys vice president Stephen Jones told season-ticket holders during a Tuesday conference call that Romo will be ready for training camp and is fully expected to be ready for Week 1. Romo underwent surgery to... more
The Michael Sam story is bigger than football. That might be the single-biggest challenge Sam faces as he attempts to make the St. Louis Rams. Sam, the first openly gay player in NFL history, started the business of life after the draft �Tuesday,... more
Aaron Maybin has reached the end of a curious football road. The Toronto Argonauts announced Tuesday that Mabyin has retired. The 26-year-old linebacker had been playing in the CFL following NFL stops with the Buffalo Bills, New York Jets and... more
Andre Johnson is not a happy man. The Houston Texans' wide receiver sat out of the first team workouts with new coach Bill O'Brien, and now we know why: Johnson is upset with the direction of the franchise following a 2-14 debacle in 2013. Offseason... more
Here are a few things you can safely call Houston Chronicle reporter John McClain: 1) A high-end tweeter (especially in times of Texans turmoil) 2) A "Spring Breakers" cast member 3) A man of his word We learned that last one on Monday. The... more
The St. Louis Rams will begin the season without wide receiver Stedman Bailey. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that Bailey has been suspended four games for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing substances, according to a... more
Michael Sam became one of the most notable seventh-round picks in NFL history when the openly gay former Missouri star was taken off the board by the St. Louis Rams on Saturday evening. NFL Media columnist Michael Silver, conveniently embedded in... more
The St. Louis Rams landed their left tackle of the future when they selected Greg Robinson with the second overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. When that future actually begins remains to be seen. The effective and well-compensated Jake Long isn't... more
Vince Young's latest NFL comeback bid ended before it really began. The Cleveland Browns announced Monday that Young was one of five players released by the team. Undrafted Free-Agent Tracker Find out where undrafted, free-agent rookies like Jordan... more
The Dallas Cowboys passed on Johnny Manziel with the 16th overall pick. Then they kept passing on signal-callers through all seven rounds of the 2014 NFL Draft. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said taking Manziel "wasn't even a thought" despite Manziel's spot... more
When the Cincinnati Bengals selected LSU running back Jeremy Hill in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft, it seemed like very bad news at The Law Firm. That's BenJarvus Green-Ellis, of course, the seventh-year running back who led the Bengals in... more
The Cleveland Browns' 2014 NFL Draft will be remembered as a franchise-altering masterpiece if cornerback Justin Gilbert and quarterback Johnny Manziel thrive at the next level. The fact that Browns general manager Ray Farmer also managed a Thursday... more
It's that time of year again. NFL Media has solicited opinions from across the league to determine "The Top 100 Players of 2014," as selected by the players themselves. You might recall Adrian Peterson topping the "Top 100" list last year . We'll... more
NEW YORK -- And in the end, there was only one sliver of drama left at Radio City Music Hall. Who is this year's Mr. Irrelevant? With the 256th and final pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, the Houston Texans selected Memphis free safety Lonnie Ballentine .... more
NEW YORK --�AJ McCarron 's tumble down the draft board has ended in Round 5. The Cincinnati Bengals selected the Alabama quarterback with the 164th overall pick on Saturday at Radio City Music Hall. McCarron -- a two-time national champion --... more
NEW YORK -- It took three days, but the New York Jets have addressed their need at wide receiver in the 2014 NFL Draft. How to watch the NFL draft With the 2014 NFL Draft officially underway, find out how to catch all the action from Radio City Music... more
NEW YORK -- The Cleveland Browns had a great Thursday. Friday ... not so much. On the same day it was learned that Josh Gordon could be facing a lengthy suspension for a positive drug test, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported wide receiver Nate... more
NEW YORK -- The Cincinnati Bengals will have a different look in their backfield this fall. The Bengals selected LSU running back Jeremy Hill with the 55th overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft on Friday night at Radio City Music Hall. Hill was the... more
NEW YORK -- As expected, the New York Jets have used their second-round pick to add a weapon on offense. The Jets selected Texas Tech tight end Jace Amaro with the 49th overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft on Friday at Radio City Music Hall. How to... more
NEW YORK -- The Oakland Raiders have landed their quarterback of the future. How to watch the NFL draft With the 2014 NFL Draft officially underway, find out how to catch all the action from Radio City Music Hall on NFL Network. More ... The... more
When you're LeBron James, everything is there for the taking. That's how it works when you're (probably) a member of the Illuminati. King James gets what King James wants. So when the Miami Heat star learned his Cleveland Browns had drafted Johnny... more
Mike Glennon can put his suitcase back in the closet. The quarterback still appears to have a future with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Glennon was a popular subject of trade speculation as the 2014 NFL Draft approached and the possibility of the Bucs... more
The Detroit Lions were already a handful on offense before Thursday's opening round of the 2014 NFL Draft. With Eric Ebron now in the mix, the unit has the potential to be devastating. That was the logic behind the team's decision to select the North... more
While the crowd at Radio City Music Hall was hooting with surprise over Blake Bortles going to the Jacksonville Jaguars with the third-overall pick, Buffalo Bills general manager Doug Whaley was putting the finishing touches on the gutsiest move of the... more
NEW YORK -- The Carolina Panthers have used the top of their draft to address one of their biggest roster concerns. The Panthers selected Florida State wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin with the 28th overall pick on Thursday night at Radio City Music Hall.... more
NEW YORK -- The New York Jets have once again bypassed offense in the first round of the NFL draft. How to watch the NFL draft With the 2014 NFL Draft officially underway, find out how to catch all the action from Radio City Music Hall on NFL... more
NEW YORK -- The Buffalo Bills hope they found the next Andre Reed in Sammy Watkins, selected with the fourth overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. Watkins documented the moment it all became official, taking a selfie with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell... more
NEW YORK -- The Atlanta Falcons flirted with the idea of trading up to the top of the NFL draft. Instead, they stayed put and fortified a serious area of need. How to watch the NFL draft With the 2014 NFL Draft officially underway, find out how to... more
NEW YORK -- You might have heard that NFL prospects, for the first time ever, will have walk-up music as they take the Radio City Music Hall stage at tonight's draft. This is one of those ideas that you can't believe someone didn't come up with sooner.... more
Mock drafts of the world, we banish thee! We've come to the end of the (very) long and winding road to the 2014 NFL Draft. By tonight, all the first-round speculation about one of the more compelling draft classes in recent memory will be put to... more
Marcell Dareus' arrest this week on drug charges is once again ringing a warning bell at Buffalo Bills headquarters. Two sources told Tim Graham of The Buffalo News the team has been concerned about Dareus using marijuana since Chan Gailey's tenure as... more
NEW YORK -- When I awoke Wednesday, I had no idea Jadeveon Clowney would soon seek my counsel. It all went down a few hours later as I stood next to the genetically blessed South Carolina pass rusher, my voice recorder hoisted into his air space, the... more
Trouble has found Buffalo Bills defensive lineman Marcell Dareus. The Alabama Department of Public Safety confirmed to NFL Media that Dareus was arrested for felony possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia Monday after... more
In the salary-cap era, locating players who are both productive and inexpensive is a surefire way to extended success. It's really the only way. Undrafted free agents signed by Seahawks Player Position Year Alvin Bailey OT 2013 Doug Baldwin WR 2011... more
The Detroit Lions' interest in Sammy Watkins is very real. How to watch the NFL draft With the 2014 NFL Draft �fast approaching, find out how to catch all the action from Radio City Music Hall on NFL Network.�More ... NFL Media Insider Ian... more
NEW YORK -- NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell assumed control of the league's official Twitter account on Tuesday afternoon, answering questions from fans on a variety of topics, including changes to the draft, new league rules, the future of the Bills in... more
We haven't heard much from Aldon Smith since his April 13 booking for making a false report of a bomb threat at Los Angeles International Airport. In fact, we haven't heard anything at all. That changed -- at least in the digital realm -- Monday night,... more
Les Snead is feeling good with two days to go before the 2014 NFL Draft. This makes sense. The St. Louis Rams general manager is the owner of coveted real estate: the No. 2 overall pick. "At two this year, it's a nice place to be," Snead said... more
Tanard Jackson is back on the grid for the Washington Redskins. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that the Redskins have been notified the veteran safety will be officially reinstated�Tuesday, per a league source. CBS Sports�first reported... more
Add the Kansas City Chiefs to the list of teams who could be in the market for a quarterback Thursday at the NFL draft. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that contract negotiations with Alex Smith aren't progressing well, leading the team... more
The Kentucky Derby has always struck me as one of the most unusual of American sports traditions. Women wear hats that don't fit through doorways, and men fashion outfits Craig Sager would find garish. People suck down mint juleps like they're not... more
In February, Michael Sam became one of the most talked about sports figures in the country when he announced his intention to become the first openly gay player in NFL history. How to watch the NFL draft With the 2014 NFL Draft �fast approaching,... more
A source very close to Eli Manning says the New York Giants quarterback is progressing well in his recovery from ankle surgery. That source? Eli's big brother, Peyton. "He feels good," Peyton said of Eli on Sunday at Yankee Stadium , according to... more
The Minnesota Vikings lost their backup to Adrian Peterson when Toby Gerhart signed a free-agent deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Finding Gerhart's replacement figures to be on the priority list ahead of this week's draft. The player who does end up... more
Doug Baldwin will be a member of the Seattle Seahawks in 2014. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Friday that the restricted free agent deadline passed without Baldwin signing an offer sheet with another team, according to a source informed of... more
That's no illusion in the distance. The 2014 NFL Draft is finally, really, almost here! Let's bust out the mailbag and get to work. As always, thanks to everybody who sent in questions. @NFL_ATL #ATLmailbag If the Cards somehow land Bortles,... more
There's a very good chance the Houston Texans select Jadeveon Clowney if the team makes the No. 1 overall pick in next Thursday's draft. The biggest question is if they'll remain in that coveted spot. Wesseling: Best draft classes What was your team's... more
The Arizona Cardinals may or may not be in the market for a quarterback in next week's NFL draft. If the team opts for a signal-caller, then selects Alabama's AJ McCarron , it could get interesting in the desert. We have Darnell Dockett to thank for... more
The Washington Redskins pulled back on the read option in 2013, one year after Robert Griffin III electrified the league -- and took a savage beating -- as a rookie. New Redskins coach Jay Gruden strongly hinted this week that the read option will be... more
The Denver Broncos have picked up the fifth-year option on linebacker Von Miller. NFL Media's Albert Breer reported Thursday that Miller's 2015 option is worth $9.754 million, according to a team source. Miller is the seventh of the top 10 picks from... more
We've been told for months -- yes, literally months now -- that the 2014 draft class is loaded at wide receiver. In his final conference call before teams invade Radio City Music Hall next week, NFL Media draft analyst Mike Mayock predicted that six... more
Robert Griffin III's sophomore season in the NFL is best forgotten -- a haze of ugly throws, lumbering scrambles, knee brace adjustments and defeats. Lots and lots of defeats. Offseason Dates The NFL offseason workout program calendar has been... more
Underrated aspect of Johnny Cash's considerable genius: Anyone is capable of singing his songs. Drop your voice an octave, stay with the beat and you're golden. There's a reason "I Walk The Line" has been prominently involved in every karaoke session... more
The Miami Dolphins have reaffirmed their commitment to center Mike Pouncey. Offseason Dates The NFL offseason workout program calendar has been released for all 32 teams. Find out your favorite team's schedule. More... NFL Media's Albert Breer... more
LeSean McCoy doesn't have any doubt who should be the New York Jets' starting quarterback this season. Marty Mornhinweg is taking a more measured approach to the competition between Michael Vick and Geno Smith. Offseason Dates The NFL offseason... more
Don't expect ankle surgery to change the way the Carolina Panthers use Cam Newton. Ron Rivera told reporters Tuesday that the March 18 procedure will allow Newton to remain the same player he's been since coming into the league. "It's an old... more
There's no way the Dallas Cowboys will reveal any potential plan involving Johnny Manziel ahead of next week's draft. Offseason Dates The NFL offseason workout program calendar has been released for all 32 teams. Find out your favorite team's... more
Trouble has found new Chicago Bears wide receiver Josh Morgan in his hometown. D.C. Metropolitan Police Department spokesman Paul Metcalf confirmed to NFL Media on Monday that Morgan was arrested early Sunday morning and booked on one charge of... more
Those green plumes of smoke coming from the New York Jets' Florham Park complex can only mean one thing: Offseason Dates The NFL offseason workout program calendar has been released for all 32 teams. Find out your favorite team's schedule. More...... more
The New York Giants have added yet another quarterback to the mix. The team announced Monday it has signed Rusty Smith, who spent his first four NFL seasons as a backup with the Tennessee Titans. Offseason Dates The NFL offseason workout program... more
The Cleveland Browns will take a look at Vince Young. Browns general manager Ray Farmer confirmed a report from�KRIV-TV in Houston that stated the team will bring in the free-agent quarterback to take a physical Monday and work out with the team during... more
Ryan Clark told ESPN in February he knew of Pittsburgh Steelers teammates who smoked marijuana to relieve stress and physical pain. Clark now plays for the Washington Redskins, but his comments about his old team didn't sit well with Steelers wide... more
San Francisco 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh is confident quarterback Colin Kaepernick is innocent of any wrongdoing connected to a police-investigated incident in Miami earlier this month. "Looking at Colin Kaepernick's situation, at some point there needs... more
There might not be a better athlete in the 2014 draft class than Jadeveon Clowney . That doesn't mean he's the best fit as the No. 1 overall pick. That's the opinion of NFL Films senior producer Greg Cosell, who has concluded that Buffalo linebacker... more
Jim Harbaugh and Trent Baalke aren't best friends. Luckily for the San Francisco 49ers, they don't need to be. Schein: Why Seattle won't repeat Can the Seahawks become the first back-to-back champs since the 2003-04 Patriots? Adam Schein doesn't... more
Three seasons in, the Tennessee Titans are still waiting to find out if Jake Locker is their franchise quarterback. Ken Whisenhunt inherited Tennessee's mystery QB. The new coach is optimistic Locker can be the solution and has downplayed the idea... more
The NFL is always a big show in town. But it's important to remember it's not the only show. The league's Park Avenue schedule makers are acutely aware of this unconquerable reality. As NFL Media columnist Michael Silver alluded to Wednesday on... more
Super Bowls aren't won in September, but they can certainly be lost. Every week is precious. Each NFL game is the equivalent of 10 games of a Major League Baseball season. A stumble out of the gate can quickly turn deadly. With that in mind, here... more
Buffalo Bills coach Doug Marrone recently underwent medical treatment to remove a cancerous mole from his skin. The second-year coach detailed his situation in a statement released through the team late Tuesday. "During a recent doctor's visit, it was... more
Tom Coughlin is "praying" that David Wilson still has a future in the NFL. Wilson doesn't sound like a guy leaning on a higher power. The third-year running back showed up at New York Giants offseason workouts in fine shape and sounding confident... more
We've already been busy writing about the most compelling matchups of the upcoming season. Now, we get to find out when the games will occur. 'ATL Podcast' The Around The League team hits all the NFL's hottest topics in its award-winning podcast.... more
Battista: A new day in Oakland? Judy Battista takes a closer look at the Raiders' decision to part ways with electric -- if erratic -- QB Terrelle Pryor. READ Motivation is a powerful tool. It makes Maurice Jones-Drew well worth keeping an eye... more
Walter Thurmond spent the first three seasons of his career playing alongside Richard Sherman. It appears Thurmond has brought some of Sherman's personality traits with him to the New York Giants. "I'm the best slot corner in the league," Thurmond... more
Jadeveon Clowney continues to be a lightning rod as the 2014 NFL Draft approaches. On Monday's edition of "NFL Total Access," NFL Media's Heath Evans and Warren Sapp expressed their disapproval of Clowney's decision to decline on-field workouts in the... more
Terrelle Pryor is on the move. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that the Oakland Raiders have traded the quarterback to the Seattle Seahawks, according to a source involved with the process. The Raiders announced they received a 2014... more
Quarterback Peyton Manning said he and Denver Broncos offensive coordinator Adam Gase didn't violate any league rules during visits with Alabama coach Nick Saban. Offseason Dates The NFL offseason workout program calendar has been released for all 32... more
When Eric Decker and Chris Johnson signed with the New York Jets, their roles in the offense seemed clear. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More...... more
What we wouldn't give to see Peyton Manning's DVD collection. 'ATL Podcast' The Around The League team hits all the NFL's hottest topics in its award-winning podcast. Join the conversation. Listen We're completely certain America's uncle is... more
The Detroit Lions lost six of their final seven games last season. They had a fourth-quarter lead in every one of those contests. The Lions' inability to finish proved costly for deposed coach Jim Schwartz and offensive coordinator Scott Linehan. Of... more
Marcus Lattimore is almost there. Months and months of rehab are complete. The gruesome knee injury suffered at South Carolina has receded into the past. After the NFL equivalent of a redshirt season with the San Francisco 49ers, Lattimore is ready to... more
It's a good-news/bad-news situation for public transportation riders in San Francisco. The good news is that the city has a new fleet of trains for the region's Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system. The bad news is that the seats inside the train come... more
A big part of the success Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Nick Foles had during his breakout 2013 season went back to his on-field connection with DeSean Jackson. Jackson was Foles' top receiver, leading the team in catches, yards and touchdowns.... more
Welcome to the Around The League End Around, a weekly look back at the world of the NFL. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good week for ... 1. Robert Griffin III: RGIII's quarterback guru (which sounds like awesome work if you can get it)... more
Sure, it's the middle of April. The league hasn't released its official schedule and we haven't even reached the NFL draft, a huge piece of the puzzle in building rosters for the upcoming season. But projections are fun. Especially projections rooted in... more
Aldon Smith's future remains unclear one week after a bizarre airport arrest in Los Angeles. 'ATL Podcast' The Around The League team hits all the NFL's hottest topics in its award-winning podcast. Join the conversation. Listen NFL Media Insider... more
Contract talks between the San Francisco 49ers and quarterback Colin Kaepernick are on hold. Offseason Dates The NFL offseason workout program calendar has been released for all 32 teams. Find out your favorite teams' comprehensive schedule. More...... more
Former NFL quarterback Donovan McNabb was released from an Arizona jail Thursday after serving a one-day sentence for a misdemeanor DUI charge, according to the Maricopa County (Ariz.) Sheriff's Office. McNabb was cited Dec. 15 of last year for speeding... more
The Jacksonville Jaguars released outside linebacker Russell Allen and three other players Thursday. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... Allen... more
Chris Johnson sees himself as a victim of his own success. The running back rushed for 2,006 yards in his second season in the NFL. He's been chasing the ghost ever since. "Once you rush for 2,000, you set the expectation for yourself," Johnson said... more
The San Francisco 49ers could be looking to move a running back before the 2014 NFL Draft. Matt Barrows of The Sacramento Bee reported Wednesday that the 49ers are actively shopping LaMichael James , citing a league source. The Niners'... more
Sidney Rice is headed back to the Super Bowl champions. NFL Media's Albert Breer reported Wednesday that the veteran wide receiver has agreed to a one-year deal with the Seattle Seahawks, according to a source close to the deal. The move comes on the... more
Give John Idzik some credit. The New York Jets general manager has received his fair share of criticism this offseason for the pace at which he's operated during free agency. No one doubted Idzik was hard at work -- the question was whether the... more
Are you a Green Bay Packers fan? Has true love eluded you? Read on, my friend! Because the Internet is both awesome and outrageously expansive, we now have Greenbaypackerslovers.com , a dating site devoted to unattached fans of the defending NFC North... more
Donald Trump demands to be taken seriously . The billionaire entrepreneur and professional famous person insists he's sincere in his wish to purchase the Buffalo Bills. And he wants to keep the team in Western New York. "I'm going to give it a... more
Kurt Coleman has found a new home. 'ATL Podcast' The Around The League team hits all the NFL's hottest topics in its award-winning podcast. Join the conversation. Listen NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that the veteran safety agreed... more
Von Miller has high hopes for the new season. The Denver Broncos linebacker, currently working his way back from surgery to repair a torn ACL, has vowed to return to the field as a better version of the player who tormented opposing offenses in his... more
Rashean Mathis is staying put. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... The veteran cornerback will sign a one-year contract to remain with the... more
The Cleveland Browns have added another face to their new-look rushing attack. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... The Browns announced Monday... more
LeSean McCoy is still getting asked about why the Philadelphia Eagles decided to pull the plug on their marriage with DeSean Jackson. Each time the topic comes up, McCoy has a similar version of the same answer: He doesn't know why the Eagles dropped... more
Steve Smith hasn't put any thought into the Carolina Panthers' unsettled wide receiver position. Carolina's "Moneyball" approach might be arching eyebrows across the football landscape, but Smith no longer busies himself with matters concerning... more
Chad Johnson could head north to continue his professional football career. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Saturday that the former NFL wide receiver will work out for the Canadian Football League's Montreal Alouettes in Vero Beach, Fla.... more
Rob Gronkowski remains on the right track in his recovery from reconstructive knee surgery. NFL Media's Albert Breer reported Friday on NFL Network's "NFL Total Access" that the New England Patriots tight end visited with famed orthopedist Dr. James... more
Matthew Stafford is taking the earmuffs approach to handling the criticism that's mounted following his uneven 2013 season. "(You) learn not to pay attention to everything," Stafford said Thursday, according to MLive.com . "Obviously, there are a lot of... more
On Friday in the NFL Media newsroom, I had a nice conversation with Charley Casserly about the ceiling of Washington Nationals right-hander Stephen Strasburg. (Verdict: We agreed Strasburg has vintage Doc Gooden potential if it all breaks right.) What... more
Which version of Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III will show up this season? Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... Will it be... more
The Carolina Panthers have added a Canadian Football League star to their roster. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... The Panthers signed... more
The AFC East remains Patriots country. Sure, this has been the case pretty much since Creed ruled the charts, but New England has gained serious in-house separation in recent years. The Jets were a worthy challenger in Rex Ryan's early era in New... more
Thomas DeCoud is staying in the NFC South. The Carolina Panthers announced Thursday that they have signed the veteran safety to a two-year contract. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Thursday, per a source who has seen the contract, that the deal... more
Adrian Peterson is taking an optimistic viewpoint on his recovery from groin surgery. The Minnesota Vikings running back told reporters during a Wednesday conference call that he is close to full strength and intends to participate in offseason... more
Champ Bailey won't be changing positions in 2014. Saints general manager Mickey Loomis confirmed Wednesday that New Orleans intends to play Bailey only at cornerback this season. "You always have a need for good players and that's a valuable... more
We've been waiting for Brandon Spikes to speak out about his unceremonious exit from the New England Patriots. On Wednesday, the new Buffalo Bills linebacker lifted his personal omertà. Great games on the schedule for 2014, but it's going to be like... more
Josh Freeman is back on the grid. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports that Freeman worked out for the Chicago Bears on Monday, according to a source informed of the quarterback's plans. It's believed to be the first free-agent visit for the... more
Richard Sherman is one of the NFL's premier cornerbacks. He's also one of the game's great self-promoters. We knew this long before Sherman's NFC title game pass deflection sent the Seattle Seahawks to the Super Bowl and set the stage for a large-scale... more
The Washington Redskins finished the 2012 regular season with seven consecutive wins, a hot streak that culminated in the franchise's first NFC East title in 13 years. 'ATL Podcast' The Around The League team hits all the NFL's hottest topics in its... more
The Baltimore Ravens continued the retooling process of their offense on Friday, reaching a one-year deal with former Houston Texans tight end Owen Daniels. The Ravens suddenly are worlds ahead of where they were at tight end last fall, when Dennis... more
The Jacksonville Jaguars are taking a hard look at Alex Mack. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More ... NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported... more
Chris Johnson could find a new home quickly. Chris Johnson Tracker Chris Johnson is on the market, so keep an eye on all the latest news surrounding his next move with our CJ2K tracker.�More... ProFootballTalk reported Saturday that Johnson is... more
DeSean Jackson was surprised to learn he was being cut by the Philadelphia Eagles, and a conversation with Chip Kelly did little to clear up why the team was parting ways with its best receiver. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the... more
Champ Bailey finally reached the Super Bowl in his 15th season in the league. It didn't go too well, of course. The Denver Broncos got pasted at MetLife Stadium, leaving Bailey without a ring to complete his Hall of Fame resume. Enter the Saints. The... more
Washington Redskins wide receiver DeSean Jackson asked for an explanation why the Philadelphia Eagles didn't want him anymore. He never really got it during a phone call with coach Chip Kelly. Silver: Daniel Snyder's major coup There is a winner in... more
Joe Haden has been in the NFL for four seasons. The Cleveland Browns have a record of 18-46 in that time. Could the Browns' incessant losing ever sour the star cornerback on sticking with the team? Does Haden need to see substantial progress to tie his... more
The New England Patriots have cut ties with Adrian Wilson. The veteran safety was released by the team Friday, ending Wilson's tenure with the Patriots after one season and zero snaps. Wilson signed a three-year, $5 million deal with the Patriots last... more
Mike Williams put down nearly $1 million dollars in cash to buy a house in the Tampa area two weeks ago, so it's safe to say his trade from the Buccaneers on Friday came as something of a surprise. Williams might similarly have been surprised to... more
The Baltimore Ravens have added another weapon on offense. NFL Media's Aditi Kinkhabwala reported Thursday that tight end Owen Daniels and the Ravens have agreed to terms on a deal, according to a source apprised of the negotiations.�NFL Media Insider... more
DeSean Jackson has worn No. 10 for his entire NFL career. Robert Griffin III has worn that same number since high school. The two men are now teammates. This is what you would call low-level drama . Silver: Daniel Snyder's major coup There is a... more
John Kuhn is sticking around in Green Bay. The agent for the veteran fullback announced Thursday that Kuhn re-signed with the Packers. The one-year deal is worth more than $1 million , according to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport. Free-Agent Tracker... more
Danieal Manning didn't stay on the market for long. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Thursday that Manning and the Cincinnati Bengals are finalizing a one-year deal , according to a source informed of the situation. The team later officially... more
In Wednesday's edition of the "Around The League Podcast ," we speculated if Colt McCoy's next job might be on the sideline as an assistant coach with the University of Texas. Any hypothetical post-NFL plans are now on hold. The Washington Redskins... more
If Washington Redskins fans are looking for someone to thank for the signing of DeSean Jackson, they perhaps can start with QB1. Silver: Daniel Snyder's major coup There is a winner in the DeSean Jackson drama, Michael Silver writes: Daniel... more
Darrius Heyward-Bey is getting another fresh start. The Pittsburgh Steelers announced Wednesday they had signed the speedy fifth-year wide receiver to a one-year contract. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with... more
DeSean Jackson's arrival in Washington offers the Redskins the potential to become one of football's top offenses in 2014. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free... more
The Philadelphia Eagles cut their best receiver last week, then watched him sign a new deal with a division rival. Why exactly Chip Kelly believed he couldn't move forward with DeSean Jackson is unclear, but Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman... more
The Oakland Raiders have locked down another veteran in their ongoing roster rebuild. The team announced Monday that it has signed former San Francisco 49ers cornerback Carlos Rogers. The Raiders offered visual proof via social media: The Raiders have... more
Kenny Britt has found a new home. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that the wide receiver... more
The Washington Redskins have added a veteran presence to their secondary. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... NFL Media's Albert Breer... more
Jared Allen doesn't see himself as a player in decline. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... Now 10 seasons into a remarkably consistent... more
The New York Jets are once again going bargain shopping to find their replacement for Antonio Cromartie. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More...... more
The NFL Annual Meeting has wrapped up and the pigskin landscape is (relatively) calm. Let's get a mailbag out there before Mark Cuban yells at us. Thanks to everyone who submitted questions. @NFL_ATL Who do you think will win more superbowls in their... more
Vince Wilfork's work address will remain in Foxborough. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Thursday... more
The Miami Dolphins have added another option to their backfield. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Thursday that former Denver Broncos running back Knowshon Moreno has agreed to a one-year deal worth about $3 million with the Dolphins, according... more
The next chapter in the career of Mark Sanchez begins with the Philadelphia Eagles. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... NFL Media Insider Ian... more
Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh knows what he's getting from Steve Smith. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More ... The veteran wide receiver... more
We already know that Terrelle Pryor isn't long for the Oakland Raiders. The question is how he'll exit the picture. Fox Sports' Alex Marvez reported Wednesday that the Raiders have received "trade feelers" for Pryor. If the Raiders cannot move the... more
We were told Jared Allen was willing to retire rather than continue his career at a compensation level he felt to be beneath him. Turns out, the veteran pass rusher didn't even take the biggest offer on the table. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported... more
Stop us if you've heard this one before: No team has ever advanced to the Super Bowl in a season in which it was the host of the game. That's 48 years without a match, but Arizona Cardinals coach Bruce Arians believes his team can make history when... more
Wade Davis came out as gay in 2012, nine years after the conclusion of an NFL career that included brief stops with the Tennessee Titans, Seattle Seahawks and Washington Redskins. With former Missouri defensive end Michael Sam now hoping to become the... more
Reggie McKenzie was criticized when the Oakland Raiders didn't fight to retain Jared Veldheer, a talented left tackle who might have been the best player on a barren roster. Now the Raiders' general manager has shed some light onto why the team... more
Another Seattle Seahawks star could be headed for hip surgery. ESPN's John Clayton reported Tuesday that Pro Bowl safety Kam Chancellor will undergo surgery to "clean up" a hip problem that developed last season, according to a source. The surgery is... more
Peanut butter and jelly. Rust Cohle and Martin Hart. Jimmy Graham and dunking footballs. Some things are just better together. The New Orleans Saints tight end might not have invented the celebration , but it's most certainly become his thing . That... more
The San Francisco 49ers are serious about getting a new deal done with Colin Kaepernick ahead of the 2014 season. General manager Trent Baalke said Tuesday at the NFL Annual Meeting in Orlando that the team hopes to lock down a new contract with the... more
In his 2011 autobiography �Play Like You Mean It , New York Jets coach Rex Ryan wrote love songs for Mark Sanchez. The rise and fall of Mark Sanchez Dan Hanzus looks back at the QB's wild five-year ride with the Jets: the playoff wins, strange... more
Jay Gruden represents a fresh start in Washington. The 3-13 nightmare is history, as is the acrimonious relationship between franchise quarterback and glamour head coach. The Redskins hope Gruden can bring back trust to that most important of bonds... more
The Washington Redskins have launched a new initiative they hope will help improve the quality of life for tribal reservations across the country. In a four-page open letter released Monday evening, Redskins owner Daniel Snyder announced the creation... more
There is most certainly a market for running back Maurice Jones-Drew. Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News reported Monday that representatives for Jones-Drew will meet with the New York Jets, New England Patriots, Miami Dolphins and Pittsburgh... more
The Pittsburgh Steelers might have found their replacement for Larry Foote. ProFootballTalk reported Monday that the Steelers and inside linebacker Arthur Moats have agreed to terms on a one-year deal, according to a league source. The Steelers later... more
Howie Roseman can't hide from the reality: Hurricane DeSean has touched down in Orlando. The Eagles general manager met with reporters at the NFL Annual Meeting on Monday morning, where he was predictably met with questions about wide receiver DeSean... more
More trouble for Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Williams. A spokeswoman for the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office told NFL Media that Williams was stabbed in the left thigh with a kitchen knife at his residence in Tampa on Sunday afternoon.... more
Mark Sanchez's tumultuous journey with the New York Jets is complete, but his NFL career will continue. Count the St. Louis Rams as one prospective suitor. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our... more
The Mark Sanchez era in New York has come to a close. The Jets released the quarterback �Friday after a turbulent five-season run that included four playoff wins, too many turnovers, a controversial shoulder injury, and of course, a butt fumble. Let's... more
Oakland Raiders coach Dennis Allen told reporters Friday he saw Matt Schaub as a long-term solution who could lead the team at quarterback for several years. That faith in Schaub's ability won't necessarily preclude the Raiders from investing in a QB... more
Jay Cutler landed a huge new deal with the Chicago Bears in January. Could Ben Roethlisberger be the next big-ticket quarterback to get paid? A deal isn't on the immediate horizon, according to Pittsburgh Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert.... more
The San Francisco 49ers have been a reported potential suitor for wide receiver DeSean Jackson. Their general manager downplayed that notion Sunday. "Right now, he's under contract with the Philadelphia Eagles," Trent Baalke said from the owner's... more
The Minnesota Vikings have snagged a big man from a division rival. Defensive lineman Corey Wootton has agreed to a one-year deal with the Vikings, according to Wootton's agent. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports that Wootton's deal has a max... more
The New York Jets will welcome Michael Vick into their building Friday. Could a high-profile former teammate come up in conversation? NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Thursday that the Jets are among the teams that have inquired about... more
There will be no further fallout connected to Mike Tomlin's infamous sideline incident last Thanksgiving in Baltimore. Steelers president Art Rooney III said Thursday that the team has been informed it will not be docked a pick in the 2014 NFL Draft... more
New York Jets general manager John Idzik has earned a reputation as a deliberate worker, an executive unlikely to act without a good amount of time and thought preceding action. Whether this trait is a positive or negative depends on who you ask.... more
Jason Campbell's nomadic journey through the landscape of the 21st century NFL continues. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More ... NFL Media... more
Hakeem Nicks won't be the only big addition to the Indianapolis Colts on offense next season. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More ... Promising... more
What would you give up for DeSean Jackson? Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More ... The Philadelphia Eagles�are open to trading the playmaking... more
The Oakland Raiders have located another left tackle. We'll see if this one sticks. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More ... NFL Media Insider Ian... more
Joe Morgan is back with the New Orleans Saints. 'ATL Podcast' The Around The League team hits all the NFL's hottest topics in its award-winning podcast. Join the conversation. Listen The Saints announced Tuesday that the 26-year-old wide... more
Israel Idonije is heading back to Soldier Field. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... NFL Media's Albert Breer reported Tuesday that the... more
The New York Giants and Mathias Kiwanuka will remain in business together -- on the team's terms. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... Ralph... more
James Jones might have loved the chance to play in Carolina , but he's found a home in the Black Hole. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... NFL... more
Brandon Weeden quickly has found a new home. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that the... more
Darrelle Revis officially is a member of the New England Patriots. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... The star cornerback received a tour of... more
The New York Jets locked up one notable free-agent wide receiver in Eric Decker. They're not done yet. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More...... more
The Carolina Panthers paid Steve Smith to go away, then let Ted Ginn and Brandon LaFell walk out the door. Hakeem Nicks seemed like a logical fit, but general manager Dave Gettleman reportedly told the hometown kid he was better off catching passes from... more
Brandon Weeden needs to find a place to rehabilitate his NFL career. Could that be in Big D? NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports that Brandon Weeden will visit the Cowboys on Monday, per a team source. Todd Archer of ESPNDallas.com first reported... more
Jared Allen's first free-agent visit is over, and now the veteran pass rusher has a second one lined up. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported that Allen has a meeting scheduled with the Dallas Cowboys on Tuesday, according to a source informed of... more
It might be a Big Apple (well, East Rutherford) showdown for the services of Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More ...... more
Steve Smith has left the Carolina Panthers behind. With it, he bequeaths his status as a true No. 1 wide receiver. Speaking to reporters for the first time since signing with the Baltimore Ravens, Smith explained how he sees himself fitting into Gary... more
The New York Giants could be interested in a reunion with one of their Super Bowl heroes. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Sunday that wide receiver Mario Manningham is set to visit with the team Monday, according to a source informed of the... more
Calvin Pace is staying with the New York Jets. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More ... NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Sunday that the... more
Emmanuel Sanders says he agreed to join only one team this weekend -- and that was the Denver Broncos. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... NFL... more
Hell hath no fury like Steve Smith scorned. Take a look at the best shots of Steve Smith. The veteran wide receiver isn't thrilled with certain members of the Carolina Panthers organization following his unceremonious release �Thursday, but he won't let... more
Jermichael Finley isn't a member of the Seattle Seahawks yet, but it could be headed that way. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More ... NFL Media... more
Tracy Porter is on the move again. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Thursday that Porter has agreed... more
The Carolina Panthers made the expected official on Thursday, releasing franchise stalwart Steve�Smith after 13 seasons with the team. Joe Person of The Charlotte Observer reported that Smith gave Panthers general manager Dave Gettleman five teams as... more
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have found a new left tackle. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More ... NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Thursday... more
Steve Smith's days with the Carolina Panthers are over . He shouldn't be out of work for long. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... NFL Media's... more
Darren Sproles is on the move. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Thursday that the New Orleans... more
Darrelle Revis and the New York Jets might have a future together yet. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... Manish Mehta of The New York Daily... more
Mike Neal was a durable and productive presence for the Green Bay Packers' defense last season. It appears he's been rewarded for those qualities. Hi Green Bay!!! I'll enjoy your winters for two more years!! �?? Michael Neal (@mneal96) March 12, 2014... more
Jacoby Jones is staying put. The Baltimore Ravens announced Wednesday that the wide receiver and return man agreed to a four-year contract with the team. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported the deal is worth $14 million , per a source who has seen... more
Darrelle Revis was released Wednesday by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. What's next for the Pro Bowl cornerback? Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More...... more
Michael Vick remains on the open market. He might stay there for awhile. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday that the former Philadelphia Eagles quarterback is in "no rush" to sign with a team and could wait until after the draft before... more
Darrelle Revis' stay on the trade block should prove to be uneventful. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday night it's now considered unlikely that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback will be moved in a trade. Free-Agent Tracker Follow... more
The Miami Dolphins have locked up Randy Starks. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday that the versatile defensive tackle is finalizing a deal to stay with the Dolphins , according to a source informed of Starks' plan. The deal is likely for... more
The Jacksonville Jaguars have found a new running back. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday... more
The New Orleans Saints have had a change of plans concerning Darren Sproles. The team originally intended to release the running back in a salary cap related move, but now the Saints believe they will be able to trade him , according to NFL Media... more
Jared Allen's first visit as a free agent will be with the Denver Broncos, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported.� The veteran defensive end is testing the open market for the first time in his career. The Broncos are in the market for pass rushers... more
Darren McFadden's career with the Oakland Raiders will continue. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday that McFadden has signed a one-year, $4 million contract to remain in Oakland, according to a person informed of the deal. Glad to be... more
Jermichael Finley is sitting down with the Super Bowl champs. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday that Finley's first visit in free agency will be with the Seattle Seahawks, according to a source. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the... more
Left tackles continue to fly off the open market at the start of free agency. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... NFL Media's Aditi... more
The Washington Redskins got right to work adding new pieces to their offense at the start of free agency. NFL Media's Jeff Darlington reported Tuesday that the team will sign wide receiver Andre Roberts and guard Shawn Lauvao. The Redskins also will... more
Andre Caldwell is staying with the Denver Broncos. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More... NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday that... more
The uncertain future of Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Darrelle Revis is the NFL's biggest storyline as the free agency period kicks off Tuesday. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute... more
The Cleveland Browns have found their replacement for D'Qwell Jackson. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday that Karlos Dansby has agreed to join the Browns on a deal that will average $6 million per season. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all... more
Give Peyton Hillis credit: The kid stays in the picture. Free-Agent Tracker Follow all the developments on the NFL's open market with our up-to-the-minute tracking of 2014's free agents. More ... Ralph Vacchiano of the New York Daily News... more
Karlos Dansby's big comeback season in Arizona last season could lead to a big payday. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday on NFL Network's "NFL Total Access" that the Cleveland Browns and Tennessee Titans are in the running for Dansby,... more
Darrelle Revis is on the block. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are uncomfortable paying the star cornerback's $16 million salary and are open to a trade, according to two sources informed of the team's... more
Good news for those of you who own an authentic Jay Feely jersey: The kicker is staying with the Arizona Cardinals. Happy to announce I am signed back with the @AZCardinals I never wanted to play with different teammates or for another organization.... more
Ike Taylor�apparently is staying with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The veteran cornerback used his Twitter account Monday to share the news that he'll be back for a 12th season in the Steel City. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport and NFL Media's Aditi... more
Jason Babin and the Jacksonville Jaguars have reached the end of the road. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that Babin has voided the final two years of his contract to become a free agent, according to a source who has spoken with the... more
Rolando McClain retired at the age of 23. He's hoping to launch a comeback at 24. The Carroll County Times reported Monday , via a source close to the player, that McClain "is in a better place mentally," is working out regularly and has been... more
Where will Jermichael Finley end up in 2014? It's a loaded question for a player who hasn't even received full medical clearance following a scary injury that required spinal fusion surgery last year. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Friday... more
The New York Jets won't let Jeff Cumberland wade into the free-agent pool. The Jets announced Saturday that they've agreed to retain the tight end. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports that Cumberland signed a three-year, $3.7 million deal , with $1... more
Matt Cassel is staying put. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Friday that Cassel signed a two-year , $10 million deal with the Minnesota Vikings, according to a source informed of the team's move. Cassel voided the final year of his contract... more
Welcome to the Around The League End Around, a weekly look back at the world of the NFL. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good week for ... 1. D'Qwell Jackson: Last week Jackson was on the last-place Browns. Now he's on the first-place Colts... more
You don't pass up the opportunity to write about Better Than Ezra on the official website of the National Football League. For the uninitiated, Better Than Ezra is a New Orleans-based alternative rock trio that found commercial success in the 1990s with... more
Wade Phillips might be out of work, but he's not out of fire. Apropos of nothing, the former Houston Texans defensive coordinator and Dallas Cowboys coach took to Twitter on Thursday and set his sights on the walls of Jerrah World. Jason Garrett is... more
It's becoming increasingly apparent Michael Vick will have no shortage of suitors on the open market. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Thursday that the Jacksonville Jaguars are among the clubs interested in the veteran quarterback,... more
The Arizona Cardinals are poking around the free-agent market for tight ends. Kent Somers of The Arizona Republic reports John Carlson is visiting with the Cardinals on Thursday. Carlson was released last week after two disappointing seasons with the... more
In the latest edition of the ATL Mailbag, we presented the unabridged list of Minnesota Vikings quarterbacks during Adrian Peterson's NFL career. It's a grim collection of signal-callers. Joe Webb, Brooks Bollinger and Donovan McNabb's remains (ID'd by... more
While drama swirls around him , Jim Harbaugh remains unchanged. We're talking about his clothes mostly, but in other ways, too. Here's the San Francisco 49ers coach at the University of Kansas, wearing his now comically standard $23 flat khakis and... more
D'Qwell Jackson has found a new home. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Thursday the inside linebacker has agreed to a four-year, $22 million deal with the Indianapolis Colts, according to a person who has seen the contract. The deal includes... more
The Pittsburgh Steelers are staying busy. On the same day Troy Polamalu and Heath Miller received contract extensions , the Steelers announced they released linebacker Larry Foote, offensive tackle Levi Brown and cornerback Curtis Brown. Foote is... more
When the New Orleans Saints used their franchise tag on Jimmy Graham, it seemed to ensure the star tight end would be catching passes from Drew Brees for at least another season. Yes, the tag's nonexclusive nature allows other teams to bid for... more
Here's your Wednesday update on Chris Johnson, courtesy of the Tennessee Titans running back himself. Spoiler: The update is there is no update. Which is still kind of an update, right? Let's just go with it . My agent and titans front office had a... more
CULVER CITY, Calif. -- Most of the football world believes James Jones won't be back with the Green Bay Packers in 2014. While the team has talked extension with Jordy Nelson, and the coach has sung the praises of Jarrett Boykin, Jones has heard... more
The Washington Redskins have opted to move on from defensive end Adam Carriker and punter Sav Rocca. The team announced Tuesday it was terminating the contracts of both veterans. The moves save approximately $3.2 million in salary cap space. The... more
With the offseason officially underway, Around The League will examine what's next for all 32 teams. The series continues with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. What's changing? Youngry didn't take. Neither did Sgt. Schiano. Now the Bucs will ask Lovie... more
You can safely cross Anquan Boldin off the list of San Francisco 49ers players who have reportedly grown weary of their coach's antics. 'ATL Podcast' The Around The League team hits all the NFL's hottest topics in its award-winning podcast. Join the... more
Russell Wilson continued his spring training dalliance with the Texas Rangers on Monday, putting on the uniform, fielding grounders and basically looking exactly the part of a Major League Baseball player. Seriously, Wilson could easily portray a... more
Jairus Byrd appears to be on a collision course with the open market. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Sunday that, after gauging the market and looking at possible trade options, the Buffalo Bills now are unlikely to use their franchise tag on... more
The extra point has become the NFL's great afterthought. Could a substantial change be on the horizon? NFL Media's Judy Battista reports the NFL Competition Committee is in preliminary talks about placing the ball at the 25-yard line for the... more
The Cleveland Browns are making their move to hold on to center Alex Mack. 'ATL Podcast' The Around The League team hits all the NFL's hottest topics in its award-winning podcast. Join the conversation. Listen NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport... more
Jim Harbaugh remains the 49ers' coach. Trent Baalke remains the general manager. Jimmy Haslam's "opportunity" has come and gone. Still, uncertainty lingers in San Francisco. The relationship between Harbaugh and Baalke has been portrayed as the... more
The Philadelphia Eagles signed both Riley Cooper and Jeremy Maclin to new contracts last week. Could the team's aggressiveness in locking up those wide receivers say something about DeSean Jackson's future? Philly.com's Jimmy Kempski offered an... more
Karlos Dansby was a certified offseason steal for the Arizona Cardinals in 2013. After being released by the Miami Dolphins, the inside linebacker returned to the desert on a one-year deal and proceeded to have one the best seasons of his career.... more
Malcom Floyd doesn't know when he can get back on the football field -- or if that's even a possibility. 'ATL Podcast' The Around The League team hits all the NFL's hottest topics in its award-winning podcast. Join the conversation. Listen The... more
The 2013 season was one of transformation for Josh McCown. The Chicago Bears quarterback entered the season as a journeyman and exited as a late bloomer with high-earning potential on the free-agent market. McCown made eight appearances and five... more
The NFL has notified clubs that the salary cap for 2014 will be $133 million, NFL Media's Albert Breer reported Friday. That is an increase of nearly $10 million per team over 2013. The cap is primed to soar even higher in 2015, after money from... more
The NFL Scouting Combine is in the rearview, the beginning of free agency is near. Dan Hanzus takes questions from you, the reader, and answers them in the latest ATL Mailbag. What would the 2011 draft top 5 look like if done with hindsight?... more
Charles Woodson said earlier this week he "definitely" plans on playing in 2014. Will that change if the Oakland Raiders don't make him an offer he feels is fair? "If the right numbers don't come across for myself and from the team standpoint, it's... more
If you somehow came into the possession of "Weird Science" -like software that could create the prototypical baseball manager, the great machine would undoubtedly spit out Ron Washington. Washington is gruff, wise, mustachioed and not one to suffer... more
Riley Cooper is unlikely to ever fully escape the long shadow cast by his behavior at that Kenny Chesney concert. Still, the five-year, $25 million contract signed by the Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver proves you can move on from personal blunders... more
With the offseason officially underway, Around The League will examine what's next for all 32 teams. The series continues with the New York Giants. What's changing? The Giants were buried from postseason consideration by Halloween, losing... more
Jonathan Martin wants to continue his NFL career. If that doesn't happen with the Miami Dolphins, then where? One intriguing potential landing spot is Indianapolis, where the Colts have become fertile ground for the high-profile Stanford alumni.... more
The Philadelphia Eagles are keeping busy before the start of free agency. On the same day the team announced a contract extension for left tackle Jason Peters, the Eagles also are closing in on new deals with wide receivers Riley Cooper and Jeremy... more
The Cleveland Browns are moving on without D'Qwell Jackson. The team released the linebacker Wednesday, soon after the sides met and mutually agreed to part ways. Jackson had been due a $4.1 million roster bonus on March 15. Jackson told The Plain... more
Carolina Panthers general manager Dave Gettleman raised eyebrows at the NFL Scouting Combine last week when he chose not to commit to veteran wide receiver Steve Smith. "Steve's had a great career," Gettleman said, "and the bottom line is, it's... more
Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross has yet to have a conversation with Jonathan Martin since the release of the Wells report, but he believes that might soon change. During a Tuesday conference call to promote anti-bullying legislation, Ross... more
Baltimore Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome said Saturday that the NFL Competition Committee has discussed a proposal to penalize players for the on-field use of racial slurs. Newsome, a member of the committee, said discussions took place at the... more
The 2013 season was a lost one for Von Miller. The Denver Broncos' two-time All-Pro linebacker was suspended six games for violating the league's substance abuse policy , then suffered a torn ACL that ended his season in December. 'ATL Podcast' The... more
Charles Woodson's Oakland Raiders homecoming was a success. The veteran defensive back started in all 16 games last season and played in 1,098 of the team's 1,105 defensive snaps. He made an impact, too, forcing three fumbles and recording an... more
The Baltimore Ravens and Dennis Pitta are headed in the right direction. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that Pitta and the Ravens are making progress on a new deal, according to sources informed of the negotiations. Nothing is imminent... more
Could Michael Vick's next home be at the Meadowlands? NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that, based on conversations in the past week, it's clear the Jets are viewed as a legitimate possible landing spot for the Philadelphia Eagles... more
Kirk Cousins is happy being a part of the Washington Redskins. He also really wants to be a starter. This is what you call a "conflicting situation." 'ATL Podcast' The Around The League team hits all the NFL's hottest topics in its award-winning... more
The update on Chris Johnson is that there is no update. The Tennessean reports the running back's status is unchanged after the Titans met with Johnson's agent at the NFL Scouting Combine this weekend. Johnson is coming off a season in which he... more
Jadeveon Clowney made sure he'd be the story Monday at the NFL Scouting Combine. The polarizing University of South Carolina star blew the doors off the 40-yard dash, posting unofficial times of 4.47 and 4.48. (He later was clocked officially at 4.53.)... more
San Francisco 49ers CEO Jed York flatly denied his team nearly traded coach Jim Harbaugh to the Cleveland Browns. Harbaugh echoed York's denial. Browns owner Jimmy Haslam has a different story. In fact, Haslam confirmed the two teams did discuss a deal... more
The legend of Chris Johnson lives on ... just barely. Johnson -- who holds the NFL Scouting Combine record for the 40-yard dash -- got a legitimate scare in the form of Kent State running back Dri Archer , who ran his 40 in 4.26 seconds Sunday. That's... more
Philip Rivers will have the familiarity of his longtime starting center for another year. Nick Hardwick has told the San Diego Chargers he will return for an 11th season. Hardwick had been weighing retirement, but he has opted to finish his... more
Michael Sam provided compelling evidence Saturday that he's absolutely the right guy for this unique spotlight. Silver: Standing with Sam Facing the assembled media for the first time since announcing he's gay, Michael Sam truly impressed Michael... more
The chairman of the Fritz Pollard Alliance, a group that monitors racial diversity in the NFL, believes the league will soon enact a rule that will penalize a player 15 yards for using the N-word on the field during a game. John Wooten said he expects... more
The San Francisco 49ers have started to talk business with Colin Kaepernick. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Saturday that the 49ers and representatives for the quarterback met at an Indianapolis steak house Friday night to begin... more
The New York Jets are inching toward decision time on Mark Sanchez. Both the player and team are operating under a March 25 deadline. That's the date Sanchez is due a $2 million roster bonus, money the erstwhile starting quarterback will never see.... more
Arian Foster is coming off a year in which he missed time with preseason injuries, looked a step slow when he returned, then got shut down by back surgery after eight games. It was a disappointing, if not totally shocking development for a running... more
Jeremy Maclin wants to stay with the Philadelphia Eagles. It's starting to look like a real possibility he gets that wish. Jeff McLane of the Philadelphia Inquirer reported Friday that the Eagles have prioritized retaining Maclin before Riley Cooper,... more
Nick Collins was a standout safety for the Green Bay Packers before suffering a bruised spinal cord early in the 2011 season. Collins underwent surgery and -- despite his wishes -- hasn't played since. The speculation that Packers tight end... more
Kirk Cousins isn't untouchable, but don't expect to see him change football addresses this offseason. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Friday that the Washington Redskins do not intend to trade their backup quarterback. This comes two days... more
Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh has made his first public comments following the arrest of running back Ray Rice. Rice and his fiancée, Janay Palmer, were arrested last week after Atlantic City police said the pair got in a fight and hit each... more
The Cleveland Browns are targeting Jairus Byrd. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Friday from the NFL Scouting Combine that the possibility of a reunion between Browns coach Mike Pettine and the playmaking safety "is real," according to sources... more
Bigger is apparently better for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. That's our takeaway after seeing the "enhanced" helmets for the Bucs, unveiled during Thursday's edition of "NFL Total Access." Former Bucs great Warren Sapp and current Bucs star Gerald McCoy... more
Stephen Jones said this week that the Dallas Cowboys were getting "the lay of the land " on DeMarcus Ware and Miles Austin, two high-priced veterans employed by a team with legitimate salary-cap concerns. Austin is unlikely to survive the purge.... more
Miami Dolphins offensive line coach Jim Turner has been relieved of his duties following the release of Ted Wells' independent investigation of misconduct in the locker room, the team announced Wednesday. Head trainer Kevin O'Neill also was dismissed .... more
With the offseason officially under way, Around The League will examine what's next for all 32 teams. The series continues with the Miami Dolphins. What's changing? A lot. The Dolphins' tumultuous 8-8 season proved to be the final straw for... more
Ted Wells' incendiary report on the Miami Dolphins' workplace appears to have claimed its first victims. NFL Media's Jeff Darlington reported Wednesday �that the Dolphins have fired longtime trainer Kevin O'Neill, a source confirmed. ESPN's Chris... more
Fred Davis continues to be his own worst enemy. The Washington Redskins tight end has been suspended indefinitely without pay for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. The suspension begins immediately. "I would like to clarify the... more
The Dallas Cowboys are believed to be close to $25 million above the NFL's projected salary cap. The team obviously needs to make decisions on how to eliminate that bloat. Enter defensive end DeMarcus Ware and wide receiver Miles Austin, two... more
The Washington Redskins remain open to parting ways with Kirk Cousins at the right price. Mark Maske of The Washington Post reported Wednesday the Redskins want a second-round pick in the NFL draft if they were to trade the backup quarterback,... more
More trouble has found star-crossed San Diego Chargers wide receiver Danario Alexander. Alex Marvez of Fox Sports reported Wednesday that Alexander has required "multiple" surgeries on his right knee because of an infection after undergoing a... more
Breathe easy, PAT purists. The extra point appears safe ... for now. 'ATL Podcast' The Around The League team hits all the NFL's hottest topics in its award-winning podcast. Join the conversation. Listen NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport said Tuesday... more
CULVER CITY, Calif. -- These are good times to be Randall Cobb. The Green Bay Packers wide receiver, just 23, has established himself as one of the game's best young playmakers. Now he enters a 2014 season that doubles as a contract year. A huge payday... more
Every team has needs. But few have one as pressing as the New York Jets do at wide receiver. Rookie quarterback Geno Smith had very little to work with last season, and the cast won't look any better after the Jets purge the bloated salary of... more
Anquan Boldin and the San Francisco 49ers proved to be a perfect match last season. Don't expect the partnership to end. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport said Wednesday on NFL Network that the 49ers want the soon-to-be free-agent wide receiver back... more
The new offensive coordinator of the Baltimore Ravens says Ray Rice will remain the engine of the team's offense in 2014. "I think as he goes, we'll go," Gary Kubiak told the Ravens' official website �Friday. "Our goal is to get him going, and he's... more
Welcome to the Around The League End Around, a weekly look back at the world of the NFL. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good week for ... 1. Michael Sam: The path ahead is uncertain , but history will remember Sam as a trailblazer.... more
In normal civilization time, it wasn't long ago that Brian Hoyer was making plays in NFL games that count. But in Cleveland Browns time, Hoyer's ascension to the starting job seems like a generation ago. Hoyer tore his ACL in October. Since then,... more
When excerpts from Seth Wickersham's ESPN The Magazine profile on Tony Gonzalez began to leak last week, the blogosphere couldn't resist. Tony Gonzalez says Matt Ryan's not elite! Tony Gonzalez wanted out before the trade deadline! Tony Gonzalez... more
The Houston Texans have a need at quarterback. They also own the first overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. Teams that traded No. 1 overall pick prior to draft Year Player selected Traded from Traded to 1941 Tommy Harmon Eagles Bears 1967 Charles... more
Jermichael Finley is determined to return to the field in 2014. His agent continues to paint a very optimistic picture it will happen. Blake Baratz said the tight end's neurosurgeon told Finley that there's a "99.9 percent" chance his spinal fusion... more
The New York Jets want to lock up a key in-house free agent before he hits the open market. The New York Daily News reported Thursday that the Jets have started negotiations with right tackle Austin Howard, according to a team source. The team... more
The Green Bay Packers are usually bystanders while other teams throw around millions in free agency. That's about to change. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport said Wednesday on "NFL Total Access" that the Packers plan to take advantage of their nearly $30... more
Hours after going on an extended Twitter rant directed at estranged teammate Jonathan Martin, Miami Dolphins guard Richie Incognito released an exclusive statement to NFL Media columnist Michael Silver. "The facts clearly show the allegations are false... more
Richie Incognito knows his NFL career is hanging in the balance. The findings of Ted Wells' independent report on the Miami Dolphins' workplace could decide Incognito's future. Wells' report isn't expected to be released until later this week at the... more
Tedy Bruschi believes Michael Sam can assimilate into an NFL locker room. But the former New England Patriots linebacker cautions it could take time for some teammates to accept the sport's first openly gay player. "It's going to be unusual at... more
CULVER CITY, Calif. -- Michael Bennett is laying on a black couch as I enter the room. The Seattle Seahawks' defensive lineman remains this way after I sit in a chair and begin to ask him questions. I am not a psychiatrist, though for a brief moment I... more
You might vaguely recall the Chicago Bears once mortgaged their future to land a temperamental young quarterback named Jay Cutler. The year was 2009, and then-Bears general manager Jerry Angelo was beaming after pulling the trigger on a trade that... more
Michael Sam's public announcement that he's gay has received widespread support, from his alma mater �Missouri to current NFL players to the President of the United States . Of course, not everyone is going to be acceptant of Sam's sexual... more
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have done some housekeeping. The team announced Monday it signed quarterback Mike Kafka and released offensive tackle Gabe Carimi, defensive tackle Derek Landri, quarterback Jordan Rodgers and running back Michael Hill.... more
Has Miles Austin's time with the Dallas Cowboys run out? ESPNDallas.com reported that talk out of the Cowboys' facility has the team ready to "move on" from the veteran wide receiver after eight seasons. This would not be a surprise. The Cowboys... more
We've reached the math portion of the NFL calendar. This isn't as sexy as, say, the "Super Bowl portion" of the NFL calendar, but the numbers game is vitally important to all 32 NFL teams. This is the time when front offices size up rosters and... more
It's the Sunday after the Super Bowl. The NFL Media newsroom is quiet. It only makes sense we check back in with Jared Lorenzen. The Hefty Lefty (or The Pillsbury Throwboy, or The Abominable Throwman or The Round Mound of Touchdown -- this is your call... more
It's time for us -- as a people -- to respect Alex Smith. He is not the system quarterback you remember from Jim Harbaugh's first season in San Francisco. Smith's performance against the New Orleans Saints in the 2011 NFL playoffs was one high-profile... more
The 2014 NFL Draft is still three months away, but Rick Spielman already has a plan. The Minnesota Vikings general manager has set a goal of having 10 selections in his pocket. He's two short right now. Spielman will work the phones to hit double... more
With the offseason officially under way, Around The League will examine what's next for all 32 teams. The series continues with the New York Jets. What's changing? Rex Ryan returns, but some notable veterans are likely to be shown the door... more
Here's something I'm 110 percent positive Peyton Manning will never watch: The Super Bowl XLVIII episode of NFL Network's "Sound FX." It's essentially an hour-long "Saw" sequel for Broncos fans, serving as a reminder of how outrageously the Seahawks... more
Norv Turner has plans for Adrian Peterson in 2013. Plans that could be different than the previous coaching regime in Minnesota. Turner, hired as the Vikings' new offensive coordinator last month, wants to run an offense that gets the ball to his best... more
Jack Del Rio will remain under the employ of the Denver Broncos. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Thursday that the defensive coordinator reached agreement with the team on a new two-year contract, per a team source. The Denver Post first... more
We might not have seen the last of Tony Gonzalez, after all. The prolific tight end "consistently confessed" during Atlanta's 4-12 season that he was uncertain about retirement, according to a profile by Seth Wickersham in the latest edition of ESPN The... more
The Vikings might have found a new offensive coordinator in Norv Turner, but Minnesota's search for a franchise quarterback remains a work in progress. After the bumbling trio of Christian Ponder, Matt Cassel and Josh Freeman led the Vikings to a... more
A press conference immediately following a Super Bowl victory parade is not typically a bastion for hard news. Brooks: Anatomy of a beatdown What can we learn from a shockingly one-sided Super� Bowl? Bucky Brooks breaks down tape of Seattle's epic... more
They call it the first professional sports title for the city of Seattle in 35 years. This is not technically accurate. The Seattle Storm captured WNBA championships in both 2004 and 2010. Do you want to tell WNBA Finals MVP Betty Lennox that Seattle's... more
While the Seahawks paraded through major civic hubs of the Pacific Northwest, Peyton Manning found solace on the links with Bill Belichick. Wait, what? Golf Channel anchor Todd Lewis tweeted out the photographic evidence from the AT&T Pebble Beach... more
The NFL appointed Ted Wells to lead the independent investigation of the Miami Dolphins' workplace related to the fractured relationship between Richie Incognito and Jonathan Martin. We'll soon learn Wells' findings. A representative for Wells said the... more
Change is on the way to "Thursday Night Football." It was announced Wednesday that the NFL will partner with CBS to produce and televise 16 games under the "Thursday Night Football" banner for the 2014 season. CBS will air eight early-season... more
Welcome to a special edition of the Around The League End Around, looking back at Super Bowl XLVIII. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good Super Bowl for ... 1. Russell Wilson: He's young, talented, clutch and the quarterback of a team with a... more
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- Pete Carroll had reached the NFL mountaintop. Now came the time to celebrate with the players who got him there. Around The League was on the scene when the Seattle Seahawks coach gathered his players in the center of the... more
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- This was a fitting way to say for us to say goodbye to Marshawn Lynch. The Seattle Seahawks running back's quirky demeanor and strict code of silence around (most ) humans with microphones made him a media fascination during... more
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- Joe Namath handled coin-toss duties for Super Bowl XLVIII. How could it not end up being entertaining? Super Bowl commercials Watch all the funniest spots from Super Bowl Sunday. Share them via social media and rate your... more
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- Derrick Brooks had just been announced as a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2014 . Warren Sapp couldn't wait to congratulate his ex-teammate with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Harrison: Hall of Fame reaction Andre... more
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- By almost all accounts, Super Bowl week has been a definitive success. The events in New York City and New Jersey have been safe, smartly coordinated and well-attended. The weather has cooperated as well. The frigid cold earlier... more
NEW YORK -- "NFL Honors" is getting bigger. Now in its third year, the league's huge award gala has become a must-attend event for luminaries in town for the Super Bowl. The decision to include the announcement of the incoming Pro Football Hall of Fame... more
NEW YORK -- I am walking the red carpet at the Maxim party. NFL Fan Pass Want the ultimate access to Super Bowl XLVIII? NFL Fan Pass takes you behind the scenes with top stars and celebrities. READ Well, technically, it's a white carpet. And... more
NEW YORK -- Before we head into Super Bowl weekend (we've made it, people), here are some thoughts on Radio Row: » The random factor is pretty high. I encountered a clearly lost Frank Caliendo at one point. Head down a flight of steps and there's... more
NEW YORK -- Greg Hardy tied a franchise record with 15 sacks for the Carolina Panthers this season. He won't turn 26 until next July. These are the types of guys you want to keep in the building. That's not assured for the man who calls himself The... more
NEW YORK -- You get the feeling that Darrelle Revis will always be the one that got away for Rex Ryan. The coach knew exactly what he had in Revis during the cornerback's six seasons with the New York Jets. Contract squabbles poisoned the relationship... more
NEW YORK -- Martellus Bennett is the runaway winner as the most entertaining athlete to talk to during Super Bowl week. The Chicago Bears tight end truly is unique. To cite one excellent example, Bennett was the only guy walking around Radio Row... more
NEW YORK -- The first thing that jumps out at you is the hair. Bruno Mars has an outrageous follicle situation going on. It rises approximately three inches into the air, a towering Hawaiian wave just about to crest. It's hard to concentrate on anything... more
NEW YORK -- Michael Vick doesn't know where he'll end up next season. Wherever he lands, he doesn't expect to be a backup. Around The League caught up with the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Wednesday at the Super Bowl Media Center, where he was... more
NEW YORK -- Sometime around my 30th birthday, I made a solemn vow to never again stand in line outside a bar. I'd estimate I spent roughly 47 percent of my twenties waiting for some disagreeable behemoth to let me in the door of an overpriced hole.... more
So much for the idea neither Super Bowl team would set foot in Manhattan this week. NFL Fan Pass Want the ultimate access to Super Bowl XLVIII? NFL Fan Pass takes you behind the scenes with top stars and celebrities. READ The intrepid humans... more
NEW YORK -- The trio of Jay Cutler, Josh McCown and Alshon Jeffery seemed to garner much of the spotlight on the Chicago Bears' offense this season. While a quarterback controversy raged and Jeffery put on a weekly show, running back Matt Forte chugged... more
NEW YORK -- When Indianapolis Colts kicker Adam Vinatieri rolled past me on the NFL.com/Live set Wednesday, I felt compelled to pull up his stats on my phone. This is what sports nerds do. His career achievements are staggering. Eighteen seasons,... more
NEW YORK -- Maurice Jones-Drew finds himself at a crossroads. The Jacksonville Jaguars running back turns 29 in March and is coming off the worst statistical season of his career. This is not the ideal time for him to hit free agency, but that's... more
NEWARK, N.J. -- You have to admire what Marshawn Lynch pulled off on Media Day. The man who said the least mattered the most during Super Bowl week's grand circus, held this year in the cramped confines of the Prudential Center. As Gregg Rosenthal put... more
NEWARK, N.J. -- Percy Harvin says he feels great. His body is right and his head is sound after a concussion forced him to miss the NFC Championship Game . He looms as a potential X-factor in Super Bowl XLVIII. Staying on the field always has been... more
NEWARK, N.J. -- What's the first image that pops to mind when you think of Peyton Manning? For me, it's this . Manning, ankle being treated in a tub, helmet on so he can listen to play calls in practice, eyes intently studying the playbook on his... more
Marshawn Lynch's reclusive nature with the media already had the Seattle Seahawks running back on thin ice with the NFL as he entered Super Bowl week. The situation might soon escalate.� In an exclusive one-on-one with NFL Media columnist Michael... more
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell was vocal in his displeasure with last year's Pro Bowl, disparaging the level of play and openly broaching the possibility the game could be eliminated. 'ATL Podcast' The Around The League team hits all the NFL's hottest... more
True story: Super Bowl XLVIII will be played outdoors in northern New Jersey. Also true: There is no roof on MetLife Stadium. Mother Nature will have a voice in the year's biggest game. A potentially�loud one. The weather seems to be all anyone can talk... more
For the owners of metropolitan New York's NFL franchises, the first cold-weather Super Bowl counts as a triumph. Jets owner Woody Johnson can still recall a conversation years earlier with Giants co-owner John Mara in which the question was asked :... more
Congratulations. You were able to collect on that debt from your idiot brother-in-law and buy Super Bowl tickets. If you're doing this right (and I imagine you are, seeing as how you managed to get that money back from Todd ), you'll arrive in Manhattan... more
JERSEY CITY, N.J. -- This is supposed to be the New York/New Jersey Super Bowl, but Sunday was all about the land of Springsteen. The first official media event of the week leading up to Denver Broncos versus Seattle Seahawks was held aboard the... more
JERSEY CITY, N.J. -- Peyton Manning's boss had the NFL's greatest ever sign-off. John Elway won back-to-back rings with the Denver Broncos -- then walked away. In his first press conference of Super Bowl week, Manning was asked if it has ever... more
Danny Amendola's debut season with the New England Patriots was a disappointment. Will he get a chance to redeem himself in 2014? The Boston Globe's Ben Volin speculated Sunday that the Patriots could designate the wide receiver as a post-June 1... more
Mike Adams grew up in Paterson, N.J., a short distance from MetLife Stadium and the site of Super Bowl XLVIII . It's not quite walking distance -- Paterson is 12 miles away -- but the safety promises to be on foot if the Denver Broncos beat the... more
The Miami Dolphins' winding search for their next general manager has ended with a surprise decision. The team announced Sunday it has hired Dennis Hickey as the new GM . Hickey previously had served as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' director of player... more
Cam Newton was the picture of bliss during the first ever Pro Bowl draft on Wednesday, looking and acting like a man who has an amazing life. This makes sense, because he does. But Newton admitted that the Carolina Panthers' divisional playoff loss... more
The Miami Dolphins signed Mike Wallace with the hope that he'd be the big-play wide receiver who would take Ryan Tannehill to the next level. It didn't quite work out that way. Wallace had his moments in his first season in Miami (he finished with... more
The Denver Broncos were still down a kicker Friday. Matt Prater missed practice with an illness for the second consecutive day, according to multiple reports. Broncos coach John Fox isn't worried about the All-Pro with Super Bowl XLVIII still nine... more
The Dallas Cowboys believe they have a potential solution for internal disagreements over the direction of their offense. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Friday that the Cowboys have discussed hiring former Detroit Lions offensive... more
Les Snead has earned the reputation as a great wild card in matters concerning the NFL Draft. Last year, the Rams moved up in the first round to land dynamic wide receiver Tavon Austin. In 2012, they dealt away the No. 2 overall pick (and the right to... more
Richard Sherman's on-field celebration in the NFC Championship Game has come at a cost. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Friday that the Seahawks cornerback has been fined $7,875 for unsportsmanlike conduct/taunting. After his pass... more
It appears the Denver Broncos will get a full helping of Percy Harvin in Super Bowl XLVIII. Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll said Harvin will "do everything we want him to do" next Sunday, according to �KJR-AM. Barring a setback, Harvin will... more
So it's inevitable the comment section here will spring to life with greatest hits like "Slow news day, huh?", "This writer should be fired" and "Your and idiot." I don't care. These NFL "Bad Lip Reading " videos are just about the funniest thing... more
The Miami Dolphins are looking to the cupboard of a division rival in their ongoing search for their next general manager. Nick Caserio, the New England Patriots' director of player personnel, was in South Florida on Friday to interview for Miami's... more
In an era of extreme inconsistency for the franchise, Dan Bailey has emerged as someone the Dallas Cowboys can count on. On Thursday, the team rewarded its kicker for his steady performance. The Cowboys officially signed Bailey to a seven-year contract... more
Adrian Peterson is in for repairs. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported �that the Minnesota Vikings running back was expected to undergo groin surgery Thursday morning, according to a source close to Peterson. The team later confirmed Peterson... more
Jim Irsay and Peyton Manning have gone from business partners to competitors. That hasn't changed how the Indianapolis Colts owner feels about the quarterback, who is set to appear in his first Super Bowl with the Denver Broncos. FedEx Air & Ground... more
When Brandon Jacobs announced his retirement earlier this month, he made sure to praise the New York Giants as a "great organization" he was proud to be associated with for nearly a decade. 'ATL Podcast' The Around The League team hits all the NFL's... more
It didn't take long for the cracks to show between Darrelle Revis and Greg Schiano. 'ATL Podcast' The Around The League team hits all the NFL's hottest topics in its award-winning podcast. Join the conversation. Listen After Week 2 (Week 2!),... more
Welcome to the 2014 Pro Bowl Draft Live Blog. The NFL is attempting to deliver a shot of adrenaline to its annual all-star game, and Around The League decided to track the NFL Network coverage of the draft and deliver our own complement to the... more
We now have hard and indisputable proof that Richard Sherman and Michael Crabtree do not like each other. If you didn't know this, we're happy you survived your "127 Hours "-like canyoneering mishap. In an act of prescience (or just good ole common... more
Bill Belichick called Wes Welker's block of Aqib Talib "deliberate " and "one of the worst plays (he'd) ever seen." The NFL's take on the block that ended Talib's afternoon? Deliberate? Potentially. Dirty? Nope. "It was a legal hit," Dean... more
Richard Sherman believes himself to be a man of a bygone era. On NFL Network Sound FX will feature Championship Game sound from Richard Sherman , Michael Crabtree, Russell Wilson and more at midnight ET on Wednesday, Jan. 22. » NFL... more
Robert Griffin III never found solid footing in his relationship with Mike Shanahan. New Washington Redskins coach Jay Gruden represents a fresh start for the quarterback. Gruden's biggest job with the Redskins, by far, is helping return Griffin to the... more
Vince Young has gone from franchise cornerstone to cautionary tale. The 30-year-old, free-agent quarterback filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection last week, according to court records. Young has been mired in financial difficulty, stemming from two... more
We will have a "Hard Knocks" this summer. This was ensured at the NFL Fall Meeting, when a rule passed that allowed the league to appoint a team to be the subject of the popular HBO series if no other team volunteers. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport... more
Rob Ryan was the architect of a New Orleans Saints defense that went from historic laughingstock to one of the league's stingiest in one season. FedEx Air & Ground Players of Year Drew Brees became the first quarterback in NFL history with three... more
Richard Sherman's large-scale evisceration of Michael Crabtree on Sunday night made the Seahawks cornerback the most popular watercooler subject in America. Sherman didn't exactly back down in subsequent interviews , on Twitter or in his own column .... more
The injury was as bad as it looked for NaVorro Bowman. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports the San Francisco 49ers linebacker suffered a torn ACL and MCL in Sunday's NFC Championship Game loss to the Seattle Seahawks. On NFL Network NFL... more
A major aspect of the NFL's ongoing initiative to create a safer game has been the increased penalty enforcement on contact to the head and neck areas of players considered defenseless. An unfortunate side effect of this added protection has been the... more
Knowshon Moreno appears to have avoided significant injury in the AFC Championship Game . Denver Broncos coach John Fox said Monday that X-rays on Moreno's ribs were negative and the running back is considered day to day. Moreno was injured on a... more
Bill Belichick believes Wes Welker made a "deliberate" effort to take Aqib Talib out of Sunday's AFC Championship Game . Will the league office agree with the New England Patriots coach? On NFL Network NFL Replay will re-air the Denver... more
Colin Kaepernick was the driving force in the San Francisco 49ers' sprint to the Super Bowl last year. The quarterback failed to provide the same spark this time around. On NFL Network NFL Replay will re-air the Seattle Seahawks' 23-17 win... more
Here's something you probably knew, but I feel compelled to bring up anyway: Peyton Manning was under serious pressure Sunday. The historic regular season was nice, as was last week's playoff win and the unprecedented fifth MVP award that will follow... more
Aaron Dobson was a go for the AFC Championship Game . GMC Never Say Never Moment Tom Brady and the Patriots overcame a 24-point halftime deficit against the Broncos to prevail in Week 12. Was it the best moment of 2013? VOTE NOW The New England... more
The 2001 divisional playoff matchup between the New England Patriots and Oakland Raiders -- colloquially known as The Tuck Rule Game -- happened 12 years ago tonight. GMC Never Say Never Moment Tom Brady and the Patriots overcame a 24-point halftime... more
Welcome to the Around The League End Around, a weekly look back at the world of the NFL. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good week for ... 1. Football fans: Patriots vs. Broncos and 49ers vs. Seahawks? On the same day? For the right to go... more
Joe Montana views Colin Kaepernick as a great talent capable of leading the San Francisco 49ers back to Super Bowl glory. Montana also sees Kaepernick as a project with room for improvement. "I like his mobility and that he's getting the ball... more
Robert Quinn had an outrageous season. We worry the middling nature of the St. Louis Rams' 2013 could have obscured this reality. 'ATL Podcast' The Around The League team hits all the NFL's hottest topics in its award-winning podcast. Join the... more
Malcom Floyd chooses to remain optimistic about an NFL future hanging in the balance. FedEx Air & Ground Players of Year Philip Rivers posted a passer rating of 105.5, ranked fourth in the NFL with 32 touchdown passes and had his fifth 4,000-yard... more
Antonio Cromartie wants to finish his career with the New York Jets. He's just not so sure that's going to happen. 'ATL Podcast' The Around The League team hits all the NFL's hottest topics in its award-winning podcast. Join the conversation. Listen... more
Megatron is in the shop. Detroit Lions general manager Martin Mayhew said Wednesday that wide receiver Calvin Johnson underwent surgeries last week on his knee and finger. Mayhew called the knee procedure "a minor scope," while adding some... more
Give Jim Caldwell this: The man makes a strong first impression. Brandt: The task at hand Gil Brandt takes a closer look at the rosters of the seven teams that will have new coaches at the helm for the 2014 season. READ The newest coach of the... more
Kyle Shanahan continues to generate interest on the open market. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday that the Baltimore Ravens have interviewed Shanahan for their vacant offensive coordinator position, according to a source informed of... more
Peyton Manning had to know it was coming as he stepped up to the podium Wednesday. The Denver Broncos quarterback became a subject of national fascination this week over his use of the word "Omaha," barked out 44 times during Sunday's divisional... more
The Green Bay Packers want to know why they struggled to get their fans to attend a playoff game at Lambeau Field. GMC Never Say Never Moment Aaron Rodgers' fourth-down TD to Randall Cobb put the Packers in playoffs after a win in Week 17. Was it the... more
The Cincinnati Bengals have used an in-house option to fill their defensive coordinator vacancy. Pepsi NEXT Rookie of the Year Giovani Bernard had 695 yards and five touchdowns rushing, and 514 yards and three touchdowns receiving. Was it the best... more
The New York Giants' hiring of Ben McAdoo as their new offensive coordinator came as a surprise on Tuesday. 'ATL Podcast' The Around The League team hits all the NFL's hottest topics in its award-winning podcast. Join the conversation. Listen... more
Carolina Panthers defensive end Greg Hardy had eight sacks in the final three games of the regular season. 'ATL Podcast' The Around The League team hits all the NFL's hottest topics in its award-winning podcast. Join the conversation. Listen He... more
The San Diego Chargers and Washington Redskins have promoted from within in appointing their next offensive coordinators. On the same day Ken Whisenhunt was introduced as the new coach of the Tennessee Titans, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport... more
The Tennessee Titans introduced Ken Whisenhunt as their new head coach Tuesday,�agreeing to a deal with the San Diego Chargers' former offensive coordinator. Some takeaways from Whisenhunt's first press conference in Nashville: » Perhaps not... more
We learned last week that Dennis Allen will return for his third season as head coach of the Oakland Raiders. On Tuesday, we found out one of Allen's top lieutenants also will remain on board. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday that the... more
We now have a better idea why Ryan Mathews finished both his playoff games this month as a spectator. U-T San Diego reported Monday that the San Diego Chargers running back was attempting to play through a high ankle sprain. The injury typically comes... more
The Detroit Lions were convinced Ken Whisenhunt was their man. They targeted the San Diego Chargers offensive coordinator as their next coach before the exit door had swung closed behind Jim Schwartz. As recently as Saturday, a source close to the... more
And now, another wholly organic email chain from the Around The League team: From: Hodgson, Henry Sent: Monday, January 13, 2014 11:14 AM To: Wesseling, Chris; Hanzus, Dan; Sessler, Marc; Rosenthal, Gregg; Patra, Kevin Subject: ORGANIC EMAIL CHAIN... more
This weekend offered one unconquerable truth to NFL teams with Lombardi dreams: run or die. 'ATL Podcast' The Around The League team hits all the NFL's hottest topics in its award-winning podcast. Join the conversation. Listen As our own Chris... more
Hue Jackson was the coach of the Oakland Raiders when Darren McFadden enjoyed the best season of his oft-frustrating NFL career. Pepsi NEXT Rookie of the Year Giovani Bernard had 695 yards and five touchdowns rushing, and 514 yards and three... more
Marshawn Lynch's name rarely comes up when putting together a short list of the best running backs in the NFL. His game doesn't have the easy grace of Adrian Peterson, the flash of Jamaal Charles or the style of LeSean McCoy. He certainly doesn't lean... more
Percy Harvin's return to the lineup didn't last. The Seattle Seahawks wide receiver was knocked out of Saturday's 23-15 divisional round victory over the New Orleans Saints with a concussion. Harvin was hurt while attempting to pull in a Russell... more
We might be seeing a lot of Percy Harvin today. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported on NFL Network's "NFL GameDay Morning" that Harvin will have "no restrictions" during Saturday's Divisional Round Matchup against the New Orleans Saints, according... more
The 15 modern-era finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2014 were announced Thursday on NFL Network. A vote calling for fans to pick a "Final 15" of their own delivered significantly different results. First, here's the official list of... more
Ken Whisenhunt is hard at work for the San Diego Chargers this week, but it's unlikely to be a working arrangement that continues much longer. Whisenhunt interviewed with the Detroit Lions on Thursday and remains the clear front-runner to become... more
Brandon Spikes was moved to injured reserve this week with a lingering knee injury. Why the New England Patriots came to that surprise decision became a matter of curiosity Saturday. �??ATL Podcast�?? Around The League's Dan Hanzus, Gregg Rosenthal,... more
A quick weather update from the Around The League meteorology team. (Note: We're actually leaning on Weather.com , but just be cool and roll with it.) We'll start in Seattle, where there's a 70 percent chance of precipitation with winds up to 30 mph... more
Terrell Davis didn't make the cut as a top 15 finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Thursday. It marked the seventh consecutive year the former Denver Broncos running back was removed from consideration when the list of 25 finalists was... more
The Minnesota Vikings are getting closer. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Friday that the Vikings have concluded the search portion of their quest to find their next head coach. The one loose end is Greg Roman, the San Francisco 49ers offensive... more
Could Kyle Shanahan get another chance to work with a high-profile quarterback from the 2012 NFL Draft? The Dolphins announced Friday that the former Washington Redskins offensive coordinator interviewed for Miami's offensive coordinator position... more
The odds of making it to the NFL are long enough. Derrick Coleman had an additional obstacle standing in the way of achieving a lifelong dream. 'ATL Podcast' Around The League's Dan Hanzus, Gregg Rosenthal, Marc Sessler and Chris Wesseling preview... more
And now, another wholly organic email chain from the Around The League team: From: Wesseling, Chris Sent: Thursday, January 9, 2014 3:17 PM To: Hanzus, Dan; Dameshek, Dave; Sessler, Marc; Rosenthal, Gregg; Patra, Kevin Subject: ORGANIC EMAIL CHAIN... more
Everyone knows Bill Belichick is renowned for his curmudgeon nature, but never before had someone attempted to quantify said grumpiness of The Hooded One. Bhanpuri: Chasing NFL dreams Kenbrell�Thompkins is among a group of Pats rooks whose journey... more
The Detroit Lions don't have a coach, but they do have the league's two most intimidating players. That according to an anonymous survey by ESPN.com which asked more than 320 players, "Who is the most feared player in the NFL?" Defensive tackle... more
At his peak, Terrell Davis was the best running back on the planet. Unfortunately for Davis, he didn't stay on that peak long enough to hold the attention of Pro Football Hall of Fame voters. The former Denver Broncos star was not among the 15... more
The Miami Dolphins have shed some light on their search for a new general manager. Dolphins owner Stephen Ross released a lengthy statement late Thursday night that read in parts like a job listing on Monster.com. The statement made it clear the... more
Robert Griffin III can rest easy. His offseason will include no uncertainty about his place in the Washington Redskins landscape. Silver: A tale of two quarterbacks Michael Silver says Jay� Gruden's move from Cincy to Washington D.C. greatly... more
True story about NFL locker rooms after a game: Naked dudes. Everywhere. Harrison: Game Picks Elliot Harrison provides his predictions on each game in Divisional Round Weekend. How many road teams will taste victory? READ This is how it goes.... more
The playing future of David Wilson remains very much in doubt. New York Giants general manager Jerry Reese revealed Thursday that the running back will undergo neck surgery next week. Reese acknowledged the team doesn't expect Wilson to be ready for... more
The Tennessee Titans' coaching search is coming into clearer focus. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Thursday that Seattle Seahawks defensive coordinator Dan Quinn has emerged as a top candidate for the Titans, according to sources familiar... more
Saints-Seahawks Colts-Patriots 49ers-Panthers Chargers-Broncos Indianapolis Colts at New England Patriots, Saturday, 8:15 p.m. ET, CBS The backstory Debate: Road rulers this weekend? Three road teams won wild-card games. Who can... more
Trent Richardson won't take many fond memories from his playoff debut . Billick: Marquee matchups at QB Poring over the slate for Divisional Round Weekend, Brian Billick says the quarterback pairings stand out in each game. READ The... more
Things continue to look promising for Percy Harvin. The Seattle Seahawks wide receiver was a full participant in practice Wednesday, another positive sign he will return to the lineup for Saturday's divisional matchup against the New Orleans Saints.... more
Marshawn Lynch spent the regular season ducking reporters. The league fined the Seattle Seahawks running back $50,000 for his personal closed-door policy. Playoff schedule The first two rounds of the NFL's postseason schedule for the 2013 season were... more
You never want to end up on #DunkCam . The popular social media trend found its way into the San Francisco 49ers' locker room Wednesday. The dunker? Alex Boone. The dunked upon? Colin Kaepernick. The video evidence: Thankfully, the event's setting... more
The Kansas City Chiefs want Alex Smith to stick around. National Football Post reported Wednesday that the Chiefs will try to extend the quarterback's contract this offseason, according to a source. FedEx Air & Ground Players of Year Jamaal... more
CULVER CITY, Calif. -- Not everyone seems to think the Chicago Bears made the right move by giving Jay Cutler a fat new contract last week. FedEx Air & Ground Players of Year Matt Forte finished second in the NFL this season with 1,339 rushing... more
Another Flacco is trying to make it in the NFL. Mike Flacco, University of New Haven tight end and younger brother of Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco, has declared early for the 2014 NFL Draft, according to The Baltimore Sun . A former... more
CULVER CITY, Calif. -- Brandon Marshall just completed a season many contemporaries would give their left pinkie toe for. FedEx Air & Ground Players of Year Matt Forte finished second in the NFL this season with 1,339 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns.... more
The Cincinnati Bengals are one-and-done in the playoffs -- again -- and Andy Dalton has emerged as the primary scapegoat for the team's latest January failing. This is not totally unjust. Dalton morphed into a red-haired turnover robot in the second... more
The Miami Dolphins and Jeff Ireland have reached the end of the road. The Dolphins announced Tuesday they had parted ways with the general manager after six seasons. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported that Dawn Aponte, vice president of football... more
The Indianapolis Colts signed Deion�Branch on Monday , a nice little bit of gamesmanship ahead of their playoff showdown against the New England Patriots. Branch's best seasons came as the preferred target of Tom Brady, of course. The quarterback was... more
The maiden NFL voyage of Chip Kelly was a success. Kelly might be reticent to say as much so soon after the Philadelphia Eagles were bounced out of the first round of the NFL playoffs . But the Eagles went from 4-12 to 10-6, proof the coach's principles... more
Ric Flair spoke with the San Francisco 49ers during a team meeting Saturday night . Playoff schedule The first two rounds of the NFL's postseason schedule for the 2013 season were released Sunday night. More ... NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport... more
Turns out the New Orleans Saints aren't so helpless outside the Superdome. On NFL Network NFL Replay will re-air the New Orleans Saints' 26-24 win over the Philadelphia Eagles from Wild Card Weekend on Tuesday, Jan. 7 at 4:30 p.m. ET. »... more
Andrew Luck was viewed as The Chosen One from the moment he was selected with the first pick of the 2012 NFL Draft. Saturday provided the best example yet why all the hype is completely justified. Luck wasn't perfect in the Indianapolis Colts' bonkers... more
Jamaal Charles' day ended before it even really started. The All-Pro running back exited�Saturday's wild-card loss �to the Indianapolis Colts after suffering a concussion on the game's opening drive. Charles hit his helmet against the turf at the... more
The Cleveland Browns' search for their next head coach is heating up. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport said Saturday on NFL Network's "GameDay Morning" that New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels and Oklahoma Sooners coach Bob... more
Are the Cleveland Browns set to make a play for Bob Stoops? NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport said Friday on NFL Network's "Around The League Live" that the Oklahoma Sooners coach could be a potential target as the team seeks to fill it head coach vacancy.... more
The Tennessee Titans continue to handle their internal evaluation process at their own pace. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Friday on NFL Network's "Around The League Live" that indications are Munchak will return for a fourth season with the... more
Ray Horton is headed to another interview for an NFL head coaching gig. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported the Minnesota Vikings will interview �the Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Tuesday, according to a source informed of the Vikings'... more
Back in March, NFL owners approved a rule that banned ball carriers from initiating contact with the crown of their helmets in the open field. The safety measure -- popularly known as the Trent Richardson Rule -- was met with heavy criticism. Some... more
Welcome to a very special edition of the Around The League End Around, where we take a look back at the best and worst of the 2013 regular season. Dan Hanzus serves as your guide. It was a good season for ... 1. Peyton Manning: America's uncle just... more
Bill O'Brien was introduced Friday as the third head coach in Houston Texans history. O'Brien inherits a team coming off a 2-14 season, but also in possession of legitimate talent on both sides of the ball. Of course, not all is well on the Texans'... more
Wes Welker has kept a low profile since suffering a concussion on Dec. 8, his second head injury in a three-week span. Playoff schedule The first two rounds of the NFL's postseason schedule for the 2013 season were released Sunday night. More ...... more
The Minnesota Vikings will be keeping very close tabs on the Cincinnati Bengals' playoff game this weekend. Playoff schedule The first two rounds of the NFL's postseason schedule for the 2013 season were released Sunday night. More ... NFL... more
The Chicago Bears have decided to see their investment in Jay Cutler through. General manager Phil Emery dropped a bombshell Thursday morning, announcing the team had signed Cutler to a seven-year contract extension that will take the quarterback... more
All is calm around the Miami Dolphins right now. That might soon change. NFL Media's Jeff Darlington and NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport report that Dolphins owner Stephen Ross will be at the team's facility Thursday, according to team sources. Ross... more
Motivation isn't an issue for teams in the NFL playoffs. At least, it shouldn't be. Ryan�Mathews That said, we suppose added motivation can't hurt. That's obviously what Cincinnati Bengals coach Marvin Lewis had in mind when he showed players a... more
The NFL regular season is history, and now it's time for teams to enter the playoff fray for Wild Card Weekend, with trips to Divisional Round Weekend on the line. Let's take a closer look at all four games. Chiefs at Colts Saints at Eagles... more
Wade Phillips couldn't convince the Houston Texans to make him their next head coach. He'd like to remain with the organization anyway. Debate: Bounceback teams for 2014 Of the 20 teams that missed the playoffs, which one is most likely to make it... more
The Kansas City Chiefs might be without the services of Eric Fisher this weekend. Playoff schedule The first two rounds of the NFL's postseason schedule for the 2013 season were released Sunday night. More ... The starting right tackle won't... more
The Houston Texans reached an agreement to make Bill O'Brien their next head coach Tuesday night, an important step forward for the franchise in the aftermath of a lost season. Before the O'Brien news hit, Texans defensive end J.J. Watt used his... more
This was supposed to be the season C.J. Spiller established himself as one of the best running backs in football. It didn't quite work out that way. Spiller suffered a high-ankle sprain in Week 4 and was never the same. He spent the season... more
The New York Jets aren't ready to commit to Geno Smith. General manager John Idzik made that clear during the team's end-of-season news conference. "We're all excited about having Geno as part of the Jets, but we will always look to improve every... more
Mike Munchak wasn't on the list of coaches shown the door on Monday. He's not out of the woods yet. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday on NFL Network's "Around The League Live" that the Tennessee Titans are meeting with Munchak on Monday... more
Rex Ryan gets to keep his job with the New York Jets. The coach won't get everything he wants, however. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport and NFL Media's Kimberly Jones reported Monday that Jets brass do not plan on giving Ryan the long-term extension he... more
In his final meeting with the media at Washington Redskins headquarters on Monday, Mike Shanahan discussed his dismissal from the team in a steady, almost casual, tone. The Redskins might have just paid him millions to go away, but the old coach looked... more
You can go ahead and take Jon Gruden out of the mix for any of the NFL head-coaching vacancies that have opened up in the last 24 hours. "I don't want to be considered for any of these jobs," Gruden said in a phone interview with the St. Paul... more
The NFL acknowledged Monday that officials missed a penalty call that, if enforced correctly, would've given the Kansas City Chiefs another opportunity at a game-winning field-goal attempt against the San Diego Chargers on Sunday . The Chargers... more
The ax fell Sunday night on Rob Chudzinski, only one season into his dream job with the Cleveland Browns. Silver: Chud firing infuriates Browns In the wake of Rob� Chudzinski's abrupt firing, numerous Browns players vent their frustrations to... more
And then there were 12. The list of teams with the chance to smudge up the Lombardi Trophy in February just got a lot more exclusive . We're 35 days away from crowning a new Super Bowl champion. Five of the 12 entrants weren't in the conversation this... more
The schedule for the first two rounds of the 2013 NFL playoffs was released on Sunday night. Let's take a look: Saturday, Jan. 4 4:35 p.m. ET -- Kansas City Chiefs at Indianapolis Colts (NBC) 8:10 p.m. ET -- New Orleans Saints at Philadelphia... more