[LT Profits]

Courtesy of Footballguys.com


TB - RB Doug Martin rising to occasion

Source: Buccaneers.com - Joe Kania

Tampa Bay Buccaneers RB Doug Martin is one of several running backs vying for playing time in the team’s backfield, along with RBs Dominique Brown, Bobby Rainey and Charles Sims. Martin has shed some body fat and re-gained weight in muscle. He is excited about the competition and feels good. “Competition out here helps us all,” Martin said. “If you don’t have anybody that’s pushing you then who’s going to make you better?”

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Don't write Martin off just yet. Earlier this year, reports seemed to indicate that this was going to be Charles Sims' backfield with Martin playing a supporting role. He was a breakout player as a rookie in 2012, but Martin has struggled with production and injuries over the last two seasons. If Martin is back to form, Sims is going to face a tough battle for the starting job. Watch this competition unfold in training camp.

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ATL - WR Roddy White not concerned with role

Source: NFL.com - Dan Hanzus

Atlanta Falcons WR Roddy White said he is not concerned about the possibility of seeing fewer targets in offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan's system. 'I've never concerned myself about that,' White said. 'When we had Mike Mularkey (as offensive coordinator), we ran the ball and we found ways to get me the ball. I never worry about passes or things like that. My opportunities are going to come. I just have got to hold onto the ball and make my plays when I have to make them.'

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Fantasy owners know pretty much what to expect from White at this point in his career. He's a WR3 with WR2 upside depending on the matchup. Right now, White is going off the board at WR32 (7.04) in 12-team PPR leagues.

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ATL - Atlanta's RBs to be busy?

Source: NFL.com - Dan Hanzus

Atlanta Falcons RB Tevin Coleman and RB Devonta Freeman are set to open training camp as the primary ball-carriers, and WR Roddy White said he expects the offense to run the ball a lot more in 2015. 'I just don't think we're going to go out there and throw it 30, 40 times a game like we did in the past,' White said. 'I'm not saying that we didn't like that, but it's going to be different. We have to get back to our old (style) where we run the football. Play-action passes and convert on third downs.'

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

This is an important battle for fantasy owners to watch during training camp. Freeman has good balance and a low center of gravity when he runs. He can change direction on a dime, and his decisiveness with the ball can make him quite effective in the Shanahan system. Coleman is a favorite rookie running back of ours. He's got the speed to score from anywhere on the field. He gets stronger as the game goes on, and Coleman is dangerous in open space. This will be a RBBC, but the primary ball-carrier could perform like a low-end RB2 for fantasy owners.

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NYJ - RB Stevan Ridley's camp status uncertain

Source: The Star-Ledger - Darryl Slater

New York Jets RB Stevan Ridley (knee) is not sure if he will be able to fully participate at the start of training camp. Ridley is he does not know if he will be 100% when camp starts and will not rush his rehab.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

The Jets should just take it easy on Ridley. They could put him on the PUP list to start camp, and they could activate him whenever he's ready. The plan is to have him near full strength by the time Week 1 of the regular season rolls around.

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GB - WR Jeff Janis running with No. 1 offense

Source: Scout.com - Bill Huber

Green Bay Packers WR Jeff Janis has been working with the No. 1 offense while WR Jordy Nelson (hip) remains sidelined following hip surgery. Janis has been trying to build chemistry with QB Aaron Rodgers, which is a must for Janis to gain the trust of Rodgers and his coaches. 'It's a lot different going with Aaron because he's on a whole other level, but I'm just trying to take advantage of all the reps that I get and try to make plays whenever he comes my way,' Janis said.

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Good news for the second-year pro here. Janis was a Division II standout with fantastic measurables and incredible production at Saginaw Valley State. He can sky for passes above his head, and Janis has a tremendous work ethic that pays off on the field. He'll work hard to win at the point of the catch, and he's a threat to score from anywhere on the field after the catch. Janis could push Davante Adams for the WR3 job behind Nelson and Randall Cobb.

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PIT - WR Martavis Bryant gaining confidence

Source: Pittsburgh Tribune-Review - Chris Adamski

Pittsburgh Steelers WR Martavis Bryant has focused on improving his game and mastering the flanker position this offseason, which has shown in his on-field confidence, according to Steelers offensive coordinator Todd Haley. QB Ben Roethlisberger has gained trust in Bryant, per Steelers WR Darrius Heyward-Bey. Bryant turned heads during organized team activities during the week and can play both inside and outside.

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Fantasy owners take note here. Bryant's 18.04 air yards per target ranked 1st in the NFL, and that number highlights precisely how he can attack defenses. He's a deep threat who can get vertical in a hurry. Bryant can score touchdowns with ease, making 8-10 touchdowns well within his range this year.

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CAR - WR Kelvin Benjamin readying for grind

Source: ESPN.com - David Newton

Carolina Panthers WR Kelvin Benjamin is working on ways to take care of his body better this offseason in order to handle the grind of a 16-game schedule. He is also working on running better routes.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Benjamin put up a strong season last year as a rookie. This year, he's looking to build off that start. We think Benjamin should go over 1,000 yards receiving again this year. A favorite of QB Cam Newton, Benjamin should snare about 75-80 catches this year. We also feel he could grab about 8-10 touchdowns this season because of his size, wingspan and leaping ability.

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MIA - WR DeVante Parker targeting Week 1

Source: The Miami Herald - Barry Jackson

Miami Dolphins WR DeVante Parker (foot) is expected to be ready by Week 1 after offseason foot surgery, president of football operations Mike Tannenbaum said Saturday, June 13.

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What a disappointment for the Dolphins. Parker has the speed to stretch the field, and he does a good job of tracking passes over his shoulder. The rookie is missing out on valuable time to build chemistry with QB Ryan Tannehill. Parker may be back by Week 1, but we feel the Dolphins would ease him into the lineup at that time. If healthy, watch for Parker to turn heads in Week 5 (or so) and beyond.

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DEN - RB C.J. Anderson even better?

Source: ESPN.com - Jeff Legwold

Denver Broncos RB C.J. Anderson showed better conditioning and performed better in offseason programs this year than he did last season.

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Anderson looks fantastic in the Gary Kubiak system. He's got the ability, and he's in the offense that could lead to him finishing the season as the league's leading rusher. Anderson will battle Montee Ball in training camp for the starting job, but it's his to lose. Last year, Anderson proved he's a three-down back and would only need to come off the field briefly if he's the starter.

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IND - WR T.Y. Hilton not worried about contract

Source: NFL.com - Dan Hanzus

Indianapolis Colts WR T.Y. Hilton said Saturday, June 13, that he is leaving contract negotiations to his agent and is going to 'just go out and have fun' this year.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Hilton has a meager cap number of around $1.6 million this season. With another solid year of production, he will be seeing a much larger paycheck in 2016. The Colts would be wise to keep him around because of his connection with Andrew Luck, but affording his services could be difficult. Hilton may be looking at a contract that pays him $9-10 million annually.

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KC - RB Jamaal Charles plans on playing a while

Source: NFL.com - Dan Hanzus

Kansas City Chiefs RB Jamaal Charles will turn 29 by the end of the 2015 season, but he said he has no plans on slowing down and wants to play another six years. '(The game) has changed,' Charles said. 'They've got all kinds of technology now, all kinds of medicine people have come up with to stay healthy.'

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Running backs seem to have much shorter career arcs than they used to. Charles can shoulder a smaller workload (around 210 carries) and still produce as an effective starting running back for the Chiefs. That plus his all-purpose skill set could have him sticking around in the NFL longer than some would expect. Charles could play six more seasons, even if towards the end of his career he became more of a change-of-pace back.

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Source: footballguys.com

[LT Profits]

DEN - RB Montee Ball expecting big role

Source: ESPN.com - Jeff Legwold

Denver Broncos RB Montee Ball has performed well during offseason activities, and he described the situation at running back as a '1-A and 1-B' rotation between he and RB C.J. Anderson.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Anderson is at the top of the depth chart right now. Ball is his backup, but expect him to push Anderson for the job in training camp. Anderson is the better fit in the zone-blocking system, but Ball was the high (second round) draft pick. We'll see this battle unfold in August.

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DAL - WR Dez Bryant will skip minicamp

Source: NFL.com - Kevin Patra

Dallas Cowboys WR Dez Bryant will not show up for mandatory minicamp Tuesday, June 16, as he awaits a long-term deal.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

The two sides have until July 15th to work out a new long-term contract. There are rumblings that Bryant would skip Week 1 of the regular season (and obviously training camp) in protest of playing under the one-year franchise tender of $12.8 million. That's far off right now, so just wait to see if something can be done before the mid-July deadline. Bryant's contract could set the market for other free agent wide receivers to follow.

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MIN - RB Adrian Peterson has big goals

Source: NFL Network

Minnesota Vikings RB Adrian Peterson eventually wants to break former Dallas Cowboys RB Emmitt Smith's all-time rushing record. Peterson also believes he can be the best running back in the league when he's 38 years old.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Peterson seems to be nearly superhuman with what he's done on the football field. Right now, he's 28th on the all-time rushing list with 10,190 yards. Smith is sitting at the top with 18,355 yards. Rushing for about 8,000 yards would take Peterson about six seasons. We don't doubt that he COULD finish as the all-time rushing leader, but it would be pretty tough to reach that mark.

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NE - WR Brandon LaFell in a walking boot

Source: The Boston Globe - Shalise Manza Young

New England Patriots WR Brandon LaFell (leg) was spotted with his left foot in a walking boot recently. LaFell hasn't participated in organized team activities due to the undisclosed injury.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

No telling what this injury could be, so fantasy owners need to watch this situation closely when training camp begins. Last season, LaFell finally started playing up to his potential and we think his stats could be somewhat similar this year. LaFell was the 22nd-best fantasy WR in 2014, making him a value at his current ADP of WR38 (8.09) in 12-team PPR leagues.

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MIN - RB Adrian Peterson hoping to help QB

Source: ESPN.com - Tania Ganguli

Minnesota Vikings RB Adrian Peterson said he hopes his presence will make life easier for QB Teddy Bridgewater in 2015.

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Peterson will be a great help for Bridgewater and the passing game. The rushing attack should keep defenses honest, allowing Bridgewater to work effectively on play-action passes. The Vikings put better weapons around Bridgewater this year, including deep receiving threat Mike Wallace. We'll see how the second-year quarterback responds in 2015.

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PHI - TE Zach Ertz building rapport with QB

Source: NJ.com - Eliot Shorr-Parks

Philadelphia Eagles TE Zach Ertz has developed chemistry with QB Sam Bradford this offseason. The Bradford to Ertz connection has supposedly been commonplace at organized team activities. Ertz is excited for what Bradford can bring to the offense. 'I think we will get back to some of the deep plays,' Ertz said. 'I'll do anything I can to get open.' Ertz added that Bradford has a strong, accurate arm and can put the ball up high where Ertz is able to go up and catch it.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Ertz is a big part of the Eagles passing game as the tight end can often get open with ease on a "Texas" route in Chip Kelly's system. After the zone-read option to the running back, the tight end is usually the first receiving option the quarterback has. It's important to build chemistry with Bradford--and Mark Sanchez. Bradford is still recovering from another knee injury, and his status for the start of the regular season is unknown at this time.

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SD - RB Danny Woodhead ready to return

Source: ESPN.com - Eric D. Williams

San Diego Chargers RB Danny Woodhead said he wants to be the same person this season as he was before suffering a season-ending broken ankle in Week 3 last year. 'I think I am [the same person]. That's the main thing -- getting comfortable and going out and doing it, and then showing yourself that you can do it again,' Woodhead said. Head coach Mike McCoy praised Woodhead's work ethic and isn't surprised he's ready to play again.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

The Chargers rushing attack will have a new (and better) look this year. Rookie Melvin Gordon should lead the way on the ground, and having a healthy Woodhead back in action as a change-of-pace back will boost the offense. He won't do much as a runner, but we could see him catching about 50 passes this year for the Chargers. Woodhead has value in PPR leagues because of his receiving ability.

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NYG - Unlikely to pursue Evan Mathis

Source: NJ.com - Jordan Raanan

Free-agent OG Evan Mathis (Eagles) will not be pursued by the New York Giants unless his asking price drops. The Giants will have less than $5 million in salary-cap space left after their last two draft picks are signed.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

The price tag for Mathis is going to keep some teams (like the Giants) out of the running. Mathis had a cap number of $6.5 million (with $2 million in dead money) this year before the Eagles cut him. Considered one of the best guards in the game, Mathis could sign a contract with a new team that pays him a similar amount.

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Source: footballguys.com

[Grits n' Gravy]

Cowboy fans better hope Bryant doesn't hold out. He is their entire offense unless you want to see Witten catching the ball 20+ times a game.

[Stallion]

Awesome info!

[Wrigley]

Cowboy fans better hope Bryant doesn't hold out. He is their entire offense unless you want to see Witten catching the ball 20+ times a game.

Game of cat and mouse he will be there by time season starts

[mr. leisure]

Cowboy fans better hope Bryant doesn't hold out. He is their entire offense unless you want to see Witten catching the ball 20+ times a game.

I would sign him to a long-term contract .

[LT Profits]

ATL - RB Devonta Freeman starts as top RB

Source: ESPN.com - Vaughn McClure

Atlanta Falcons RB Devonta Freeman began minicamp as the starting running back.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

As the more experienced pro (one season), Freeman gets the nod over rookie Tevin Coleman...for now. These two will battle it out in training camp to determine which one will be Atlanta's lead back. Freeman is built low to the ground, can change direction without losing much speed and he's dangerous in space. Coleman (one of our favorite rookie RBs) has speed, speed and more speed. He's a big-play weapon who gets stronger as the game goes on. Coleman is a real threat to score any time he touches the ball. This will be an interesting battle to watch in August.

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DAL - HC not worried about WR Dez Bryant

Source: NFL.com - Chris Wesseling

Dallas Cowboys WR Dez Bryant's threat to sit out of regular season games if he doesn't receive a long-term extension doesn't have head coach Jason Garrett worried. 'It doesn't concern me one bit,' Garrett said. 'Dez loves football. He has a great passion for the game. He wants to be a great player. He wants our team to be great. He's been working every day to do that and we'll take care of the business as we go.'

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

We're not worried about this situation....yet. When we get to (and past) the July 15th deadline to sign franchise-tagged players to a long-term contract then we'll know more about the landscape of the future. Bryant could hold out, but let's first see if the two sides can't come to a new agreement by mid-July.

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NE - QB Tom Brady could sue over suspension

Source: ESPN - Sal Paolantonio

Updating an ongoing story, New England Patriots QB Tom Brady wants to be completely exonerated and have his entire suspension vacated during his appeal hearing. Sources told ESPN's Sal Paolantonio that Brady will turn to legal recourse in federal court against NFL commissioner Roger Goodell if the suspension isn't retracted.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

The NFL operations manual says tampering with footballs will result in a team being fined at least $25,000. However, the operations manual says nothing about punishing an individual player. Brady is set to lose $1.88 million if he serves his four-game suspension. We expect this situation to drag out for some time.

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TEN - RB Shonn Greene released

Source: NFL - TitansOnline.com

Updating a previous report, the Tennessee Titans released RB Shonn Greene Tuesday, June 16.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

This was a no-brainer transaction. The Titans added both David Cobb and Jalston Fowler (fullback) in the 2015 NFL draft to boost their ground game. They still have Bishop Sankey on the roster, and he's looking to produce better numbers than he did last year as a rookie. Greene was set to make $3.3 million this year and was skipping voluntary workouts due to personal reasons. Big backs who don't produce don't get much love on the open market. Greene's playing days may be done.

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CHI - QB Jay Cutler confident in new offense

Source: ESPNChicago.com - Jeff Dickerson

Chicago Bears QB Jay Cutler said he's feeling great about the offense under new offensive coordinator Adam Gase. 'I know the guys like it. I know the receivers like it,' Cutler said. 'TE Martellus Bennett is going to love it when he gets involved. We just have to keep heading in the direction we are going and keep studying. We are not where we want to be yet.'

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Cutler should be confident in what Gase brings to the table. This is going to be a pass-happy offense that stays aggressive no matter how the game is unfolding. It's a make-or-break season for Cutler this year. If he can quickly learn this offense and finally play up to his potential then he should stick with the Bears. If things fall apart for Cutler, the Bears might move on from the veteran quarterback in 2016.

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NYG - WR Victor Cruz progressing

Source: New York Daily News - Ralph Vacchiano

New York Giants WR Victor Cruz (knee) said he is progressing well as he continues to recover from knee surgery.

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We've heard nothing but good things about Cruz as he returns from his knee injury. Keep an eye on his progress as the Giants get to (and through) training camp.

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SEA - QB Russell Wilson to play with insurance

Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter

Seattle Seahawks QB Russell Wilson will play in the final year of his contract with an insurance policy in case he suffers a career-ending injury, according to sources.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Wilson playing with insurance is not a big deal, in fact it's a wise move for the young quarterback. Reports coming out of Seattle indicate that Wilson and the Seahawks are far apart in negotiations. We have confidence that something will get done as Wilson's play has already helped Seattle become one of the best--if not the best--in the NFL.

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CLE - RB Duke Johnson seen as three-down player

Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter

Cleveland Browns RB Duke Johnson is viewed as a three-down running back by the Browns' coaching staff as he continues to draw rave reviews.

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Johnson can be used effectively as a receiver out of the backfield, but we think he could wear down if used frequently in a full-time role. He's certainly a three-down player, but Johnson is best used in a RBBC. Johnson will split time with Isaiah Crowell this season.

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GB - WR Jordy Nelson practicing

Source: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel - Tyler Dunne

Green Bay Packers WR Jordy Nelson (hip) is practicing Tuesday, June 16. The receivers are working in groups of three working on route concepts.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

More good news coming out of Green Bay about Nelson. He's expressed confidence about where he's at in the recovery process. By all accounts, Nelson should be ready to fully participate in training camp.

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PHI - QB Sam Bradford limited

Source: CSNPhilly.com - Geoff Mosher
Philadelphia Eagles QB Sam Bradford (knee) will continue to see action in 7-on-7 drills but will not participate in 11-on-11 drills.

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Bradford is trying to come back from yet another knee injury. Head coach Chip Kelly said he's hopeful Bradford will be ready for 11-on-11's in training camp.

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CLE - RB Duke Johnson signed

Source: ESPN - Adam Caplan

Cleveland Browns RB Duke Johnson signed his four-year rookie deal Tuesday, June 16. Financial terms were undisclosed.

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Johnson plays with a lot of burst and quickness. His foot frequency is among the best of any back in this draft class. Johnson is dangerous as a receiver in open space out of the backfield, and he can change direction instantly and with ease. He's best used as a part-time player, and that's what the Browns will do this season. Johnson should be a complementary runner/receiver behind starter Isaiah Crowell.

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CHI - WR Kevin White not at minicamp
Source: Chicago Bears Radio Network - Zach Zaidman

Chicago Bears WR Kevin White (undisclosed) did not practice at minicamp Tuesday, June 16. Head coach John Fox said White is day-to-day, but he did not disclose White's injury.

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White has been running with the second team up until now. We'll be able to have a better idea about his situation if/when this injury is revealed.

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STL - Looking to lock up QB Nick Foles

Source: NFL.com - Ian Rapoport

The St. Louis Rams are looking to lock up QB Nick Foles to a long-term contract. The two sides have had initial talks, and they're expected to ramp up leading up to the season.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

The Rams have moved on from the Sam Bradford era, and Foles looks to be the guy they're going to rely on as the starting quarterback in the near future. The reported target date is before Week 1 of the regular season. That's a bit odd considering Foles has yet to play a down for them and he's coming off a shoulder injury that cut short his 2014 season with the Eagles.

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IND - RB Frank Gore appears to be fresh

Source: The Indianapolis Star - Stephen Holder

Indianapolis Colts RB Frank Gore was in attendance for nearly all of the team's voluntary workouts, and he displayed a dedication that is not necessarily expected of such an established player. He appears fresh and is as motivated as ever.

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Message! Gore is going to be the bellcow back for the Colts this season, and he could post some nice numbers in this offense. Opponents are going to be focused on stopping (or at least slowing down) Andrew Luck and the Colts passing game. This should mean fewer men in the box for Gore to attack. Gore is a safe and reliable RB2 for your fantasy team, and his current ADP is RB14 (3.09) in 12-team PPR leagues.
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Source: footballguys.com

[Grits n' Gravy]

Game of cat and mouse he will be there by time season starts

Not a good one to play when he is your only big play guy on either side of ball.

[mpaschal34]

bradford should be locked up and put in prison. guy has stole a ton of money.

[LT Profits]

NYG - Odell Beckham done until July

Source: New York Daily News - Ebenezer Samuel
Updating previous reports, New York Giants WR Odell Beckham Jr. (hamstring) won't practice again until training camp opens in July.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
This is the wise move for the Giants. Beckham was limited to straight-line running Tuesday, June 16, but he's done for organized team activities.
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DAL - Owner expects WR Dez Bryant to play Week 1
Source: ESPNDallas.com - Todd Archer

Dallas Cowboys WR Dez Bryant is expected to play Week 1 with or without a long-term contract, according to owner Jerry Jones. Jones said he knows how competitive Bryant is and how much he wants to support his teammates. Jones even believes Bryant will be with the team for training camp in late July. Bryant has until July 15 to sign a long-term deal.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

What else is Jones supposed to say? The two sides have until July 15th to work out a new long-term contract. In the meantime, there seems to be no movement in contract negotiations. Deals get one at deadlines in the NFL. Let's get to mid-July before the speculation begins about Bryant holding out of training camp...let along holding out into the regular season.

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JAX - Team Wants QB Blake Bortles to throw deep

Source: ESPN.com - Mike DiRocco

Jacksonville Jaguars QB Blake Bortles may be throwing deeper this season, according to head coach Gus Bradley. Bradley did say that Bortles hasn't been able to throw deep much during practice so far because of the intensive heat. Bradley added that he wants Bortles to gain more confidence throwing the deep ball.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

That's nice and all, but longer routes take more time to develop. Last year, Bortles didn't get the best protection from his offensive line and felt pressure on 26.2 percent of his dropbacks. He was sacked on 10 percent of his dropbacks (league average is 5.8 percent) and seemed to be constantly under duress. He also had the 2nd-worst air-yards-per-attempt rate (6.85 yards) of any quarterback in the league. We believe Bortles can throw deep effectively, but this O-Line has to do a better job of protecting him.

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DAL - RB Darren McFadden practices

Source: The Dallas Morning News - Jon Machota

Dallas Cowboys RB Darren McFadden (hamstring) practiced in full Tuesday, June 16. 'I'm 100% and ready to go play ball,' McFadden said. 'It felt great. We were just taking precautions, they didn't want me to mess it up or anything crazy. Just being out there today, it felt great. I was out there running, opening up and just trying to do what I can do.'

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Yes, it's actually news when McFadden is healthy enough to fully practice. Talent is not--and has never been--an issue with the veteran back. He's a gifted runner who can't seem to shake the injury bug. If healthy, he can be an effective starter for the Cowboys behind that monstrous (and incredibly talented) offensive line. McFadden will compete with Joseph Randle for the starting job.

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GB - WR Davante Adams praised by head coach

Source: Green Bay Press-Gazette - Weston Hodkiewicz

Green Bay Packers WR Davante Adams has received significant praise from head coach Mike McCarthy and teammates for his development. 'I think Davante has done a great job in the strength and conditioning. He's been really, really good in practice throughout this deal. Davante, if you wanted me to pick an MVP or an all-star, he would definitely be atop the list,' McCarthy noted.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Adams is set to be the Packers third receiver behind Jordy Nelson and Randall Cobb. He'll face competition for that job from Jeff Janis, Jared Abbrederis and Ty Montgomery. We expect Adams to come out on top, and he's a fantasy player you need consider as a WR4/5 with upside. Right now, Adams has an ADP of WR44 (9.12) in 12-team PPR leagues.

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HOU - WR Nate Washington doing well

Source: Houston Chronicle - Brian T. Smith

Houston Texans WR Nate Washington has performed well this offseason, according to head coach Bill O'Brien.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Washington is a seasoned veteran who should have no trouble working as the WR3 for the Texans offense. We'll see DeAndre Hopkins and Cecil Shorts on the outside for the Texans this season. Only Hopkins has fantasy relevance as he should be able to get decent production even in a bad quarterback situation.

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PIT - No date for Le'Veon Bell's appeal

Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette - Ed Bouchette

Pittsburgh Steelers RB Le'Veon Bell said he has not had the appeal of his three-game suspension heard at this point and does not know when the appeal will be scheduled.

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There's no set timetable right now, but Bell's lawyers could be dragging this out so the young running back has more time to prove that he's staying out of trouble. There's a chance his suspension gets reduced from three games to two games instead. Stay tuned...and oh yeah, draft Bell as you normally would. He should be coming off the board within the first three picks of every draft out there.

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CAR - WR Kelvin Benjamin misses practice

Source: Charlotte Observer - Joseph Person

Carolina Panthers WR Kelvin Benjamin (hamstring) did not take part in practice Wednesday, June 17, because of a hamstring injury.

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Good thing for Benjamin, this is not the hamstring he injured earlier this offseason. With minicamps and OTAs about wrapped up, there's no need for the Panthers to rush Benjamin back.

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NYG - WR Victor Cruz confident in health

Source: New York Daily News - Ralph Vacchiano

New York Giants WR Victor Cruz (knee) is hopeful he'll avoid the Physically Unable to Perform list and is confident he could pass the pre-training camp conditioning test right now. 'I'm trying to listen to my body and how it feels,' Cruz said. 'By late July, early August, I should be somewhere around 100%.'

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Nothing but good reports about Cruz leading up to his point. Entering training camp, the Giants are likely to ease the veteran back into action. We're not even sure that Cruz will play in any preseason games. Monitor his progress during camp.
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Source: footballguys.com

[SharpAngles]

DAL - WR Dez Bryant will skip minicamp

Source: NFL.com - Kevin Patra

Dallas Cowboys WR Dez Bryant will not show up for mandatory minicamp Tuesday, June 16, as he awaits a long-term deal.

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The two sides have until July 15th to work out a new long-term contract. There are rumblings that Bryant would skip Week 1 of the regular season (and obviously training camp) in protest of playing under the one-year franchise tender of $12.8 million. That's far off right now, so just wait to see if something can be done before the mid-July deadline. Bryant's contract could set the market for other free agent wide receivers to follow.


What a joke. Idiot cost his team a trip to the NFC Championship and will protest for making over 1,000,000 a month

[Grits n' Gravy]

DAL - WR Dez Bryant will skip minicamp

Source: NFL.com - Kevin Patra

Dallas Cowboys WR Dez Bryant will not show up for mandatory minicamp Tuesday, June 16, as he awaits a long-term deal.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

The two sides have until July 15th to work out a new long-term contract. There are rumblings that Bryant would skip Week 1 of the regular season (and obviously training camp) in protest of playing under the one-year franchise tender of $12.8 million. That's far off right now, so just wait to see if something can be done before the mid-July deadline. Bryant's contract could set the market for other free agent wide receivers to follow.


What a joke. Idiot cost his team a trip to the NFC Championship and will protest for making over 1,000,000 a month

he is the best player on team and wants a long term deal. nothing wrong with that. cowboys need to get it sorted out because without dez the offense is not capable of winning shootouts and their d will regress to the mean after an aberration last season.

[Wrigley]

DAL - WR Dez Bryant will skip minicamp

Source: NFL.com - Kevin Patra

Dallas Cowboys WR Dez Bryant will not show up for mandatory minicamp Tuesday, June 16, as he awaits a long-term deal.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

The two sides have until July 15th to work out a new long-term contract. There are rumblings that Bryant would skip Week 1 of the regular season (and obviously training camp) in protest of playing under the one-year franchise tender of $12.8 million. That's far off right now, so just wait to see if something can be done before the mid-July deadline. Bryant's contract could set the market for other free agent wide receivers to follow.


What a joke. Idiot cost his team a trip to the NFC Championship and will protest for making over 1,000,000 a month

still playing hardball with them good luck to him getting 13 mill a year flipping burgers

[LT Profits]

DAL - WR Dez Bryant arrives

Source: DallasCowboys.com - David Helman

Dallas Cowboys WR Dez Bryant arrived for the final day of minicamp Thursday, June 18.

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This is going to go on for a while, but won't be a real concern until we are partway through training camp. Not so much because Bryant needs the reps, but the history of players holding out who skip all of training camp and get hurt. If they figure a way out of this mess, Bryant remains a WR1. If he skips camp, he's still a WR1, but with some risk.

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JAX - WR Allen Robinson unbelievable in practice

Source: NFL.com - Chris Wesseling

Jacksonville Jaguars WR Allen Robinson was described as 'unbelievable' by QB Blake Bortles Thursday, June 18. 'He's definitely a threat now in the red zone. ... He's physical. He can run and do everything out in the open field, so he's been fun to throw to,' said Bortles.

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A constant drumbeat we've been hearing this offseason is Robinson's game has improved. Snaring 70 or so passes this year is not out of the question if Robinson stays healthy.

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WAS - Robert Griffin feeling better
Source: SportingNews.com - Rana L. Cash

Washington Redskins QB Robert Griffin III said he's feeling better than he's felt in a while. 'I just think we're all feeling better about what we're doing,' Griffin said. 'We know a lot more than last year. And for me as a player, you always have to be confident. Sometimes you have to throw a little swag on it.'

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We're hopeful that Griffin can get his pro career back on track this season. Griffin has ability, but he needs to stay healthy and learn how to hook slide when necessary. He's a bit of an odd fit for Jay Gruden's system, but we'll see if they can make it work in 2015. Right now, fantasy owners are taking Griffin as QB24 (14.06) in 12-team PPR leagues.

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CLE - RB Duke Johnson playing some WR

Source: Akron Beacon Journal - Nate Ulrich

Cleveland Browns RB Duke Johnson has been receiving repetitions at wide receiver, and offensive coordinator John DeFilippo said that's part of the plan for Johnson.

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Johnson has surprisingly soft hands and is good when he has the ball in space, so this actually is less strange than some think. It also might tell you how excited the Browns are for Johnson and give us a real indication that he could be a player for fantasy owners this season. Currently going in Round 11 of early drafts, we should see him rise over the summer, especially in PPR leagues. Right now, he's a RB3 or RB4 but that will change if his role is larger than we think.

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- QB Terrelle Pryor to try WR

Source: NFL Network - Albert Breer

Free-agent QB Terrelle Pryor is going to give it a shot at playing wide receiver in the NFL. Some teams have already expressed an interest.

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Finally! Pryor's career as a QB has gone bust in the NFL. However, he's big, fast and physical. We think he could play wide receiver or tight end in the NFL.

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CHI - RB Daniel Thomas signed

Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter

Free-agent RB Daniel Thomas (Dolphins) signed a one-year contract with the Chicago Bears Thursday, June 18. Financial terms were not disclosed.

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The Bears did more than just update their emergency list by working out Thomas. He comes into a situation where he could win a roster spot behind Matt Forte. There's a lot of unproven talent behind Forte, and he has more experience than guys like Kadeem Carey and rookie Jeremy Langford. He wouldn't have any fantasy value unless he wins the primary backup job and Forte goes down with an injury.

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BAL - WR Breshad Perriman has dropsies

Source: The Baltimore Sun - Aaron Wilson

Baltimore Ravens WR Breshad Perriman dropped four passes in practice Tuesday, June 16, including a deep pass in which he was wide open for. He dropped eight passes in his final season in college. 'Just really paying attention, getting too tired and really not focusing,' Perriman said when asked for an explanation about the drops. 'I don't really make excuses for it. They should have been caught, but that's something that won't happen too often.'

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Well this isn't news...though it is disappointing. He can say it won't happen too often, that he was tired in OTAs--but how about last season at UCF? What happened there? This was a concern when he was selected at pick No. 26 by the Ravens. He has ability, but can he overcome his apparent lack of focus? His upside is what Kelvin Benjamin (who also had drop issues) did last season but right now we only feel comfortable calling him a WR4 or WR5.

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Source: footballguys.com

[Grits n' Gravy]

Tebow should've done what Pryor did and he would be on a team as an h-back or TE instead of being a training camp arm.

[LT Profits]

NO - HC excited to use RB C.J. Spiller

Source: USA TODAY Sports

New Orleans Saints RB C.J. Spiller will have plays designed specifically for him in head coach Sean Payton's offense.

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Fantasy owners should be excited about Spiller's potential as well. Payton said he's anxious to see how Spiller fits into the offense with his speed and good hands. Spiller is RB17 (4.03) in 12-team PPR drafts right now.

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SEA - QB Russell Wilson won't be distracted

Source: NFL.com - Kevin Patra

Seattle Seahawks QB Russell Wilson won't let the prospect of a long-term deal distract him this season.

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We have no doubt Wilson will be okay. Wilson said he hopes a deal gets done before training camp, but said if talks stretch into the season that he wouldn't let that affect what he does on the field.

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CLE - RB Isaiah Crowell could be lead back

Source: ESPNCleveland.com - Tony Grossi

Cleveland Browns RB Isaiah Crowell could be the workhorse back if his ball security improves, according to offensive coordinator John DeFilippo.

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Fumbling is the big issue Crowell needs to overcome. He's a naturally instinctive runner with the power to wear down an opponent as the game goes on. However, Crowell is not much of a receiving threat and that's why rookie Duke Johnson is going to be in the mix here as a change-of-pace back.

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CAR - QB Cam Newton works on footwork

Source: Charlotte Observer - Jonathan Jones

Carolina Panthers QB Cam Newton has better footwork and decision making in what head coach Ron Rivera called the best he has seen from Newton in practice this week. 'I think it's all part of his growth,' said Rivera. 'Again, he's a young man. He came into this league after playing only one year of major-college football. I think it's been good for him. I think his development is really headed in the right direction and again the big plus is we've had him (healthy) for all the OTAs (organized team activities) and minicamp this year.'

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All reports out of Panthers camp indicate that Newton may be taking his game to another level this year. The team has put better weapons around him in the passing game, and Newton seems intent on cleaning up the parts of his game that need the most work. Newton is coming off the board at QB7 (7.02) in 12-team PPR leagues right now, but he may finish as a top-5 fantasy quarterback as he did in both 2011 and 2012 (4th-best in those seasons).

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CLE - QB Johnny Manziel struggling with accuracy

Source: ESPNCleveland.com - Tony Grossi

Cleveland Browns QB Johnny Manziel continues to struggle with throwing accuracy, but he showed improvement in little things, such as getting the plays called and off on time.

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Well, everything has to start somewhere. Manziel is far from the starting lineup at this point, and we'll see if he can become a more accurate passer with preseason and training camp reps. He'll likely begin the season as a backup, but the team might give him one more (last?) chance if/when Josh McCown struggles.

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MIN - WR Cordarrelle Patterson not starting?

Source: ESPN.com - Tom Carpenter

Minnesota Vikings WR Cordarrelle Patterson has been working with the second-team offense, but offensive coordinator Norv Turner said he expects Patterson to carve out a role.

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Patterson has the natural talent to be the starter, but he's yet to play up to his potential. The Vikings can't afford to wait around. We'll see if Patterson can work his way up the depth chart.

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ATL - WR Roddy White won't be given days off

Source: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution - D. Orlando Ledbetter

Atlanta Falcons WR Roddy White (leg) will not be granted days off once training camp begins, despite his veteran status and recent leg and ankle issues, according to head coach Dan Quinn. White did miss two days of minicamp.

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White's going to be fine. He'll work well in the Kyle Shanahan offense as the team's WR2 opposite Julio Jones. With a current ADP of WR33 (7.06), White could be a valuable WR3 for fantasy owners.

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ATL - RB Devonta Freeman has groin injury

Source: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution - D. Orlando Ledbetter

Atlanta Falcons RB Devonta Freeman (groin) has a mild groin strain that kept him off the field for the final day of minicamp.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Not that big of a deal because it's a minor injury and we're heading into a month or so of rest before training camp begins. Freeman will compete with rookie Tevin Coleman to be the Falcons starter this season.

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Source: footballguys.com