NFL Player News - Divisional Playoff Week

Otters27 · 01-05-15, 07:59 AM

Larry Fitz to the Pats. That would be like the team from 2007 with Randy Moss. Don't know if I like that.

jjgold · 01-05-15, 08:52 AM

Can you imagine Fitzy with Brady ???

Big Bear · 01-05-15, 10:20 AM

thread title is misleading.

most of those players are not even playing in the Divisional Playoffs.

Okung is back and healthy right?

Grits n' Gravy · 01-05-15, 12:25 PM

Gordon to Pats would be interesting but with Hernandez trial starting soon it will be a tough sell in the local news.

gizmo2431 · 01-05-15, 10:59 PM

Anyone see any information on Edelman passing concussion protocol?

Robber · 01-05-15, 11:38 PM

Confusing

Very little playoff news

Grits n' Gravy · 01-06-15, 04:16 AM

Originally posted by gizmo2431

Anyone see any information on Edelman passing concussion protocol?

Thought I read that he was good to go.

LT Profits · 01-06-15, 08:44 AM

TB - Marc Trestman interviewed
Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport
Former Chicago Bears head coach Marc Trestman interviewed for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' open offensive coordinator position Monday, Jan. 5, according to sources.
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Trestman has a bright mind for offensive football, and he can develop most any quarterback not named Jay Cutler. He'll be able to boost any offense he runs in 2015.
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DEN - Orlando Franklin, S David Bruton cleared
Source: The Denver Post - Troy E. Renck
Denver Broncos OG Orlando Franklin (concussion) and S David Bruton (concussion, ankle) have both been cleared for physical activity, and they worked on the side with trainers Monday, Jan. 5. However, both players must be cleared by a team and independent neurologist before they're allowed to play in the divisional playoff game against the Indianapolis Colts Sunday, Jan. 11.
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The Broncos could see both players cleared sometime later in the week. Franklin will likely start at left guard, while Bruton will play a reserve role with T.J. Ward also back this week.
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DEN - QB Peyton Manning returns to practice
Source: The Denver Post - Troy E. Renck
Denver Broncos QB Peyton Manning (thigh) returned to practice Monday, Jan. 5, after receiving two days off last week to receive treatment on his injured thigh. He made all the necessary throws in practice Monday.
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Manning needed the bye week to heal. We'll see if the Broncos come out firing passes all over the field against a soft Colts defense on Sunday.
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NYJ - Doug Marrone's interview doesn’t go well
Source: CBSSports.com - Jason La Canfora
Former Buffalo Bills head coach Doug Marrone's interview for the New York Jets' head coaching position reportedly didn't go very well, which could leave Seattle Seahawks defensive coordinator Dan Quinn as the leading candidate.
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Things change pretty quickly around here. About 24 hours ago, it seemed like Marrone was the frontrunner to land the Jets job. Now, the team could choose to go in a different direction. Stay tuned.
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KC - QB Alex Smith unattractive to WRs?
Source: ESPN.com - Adam Teicher
Kansas City Chiefs QB Alex Smith has earned a reputation for throwing the shorter routes, which means receivers often don't pile up big statistics when they play with him. That could have an effect on free-agent wideouts deciding to sign with the Chiefs over other teams.
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The Chiefs were *this* close to signing Emmanuel Sanders last offseason. Instead, Sanders chose "wide receiver heaven" with Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos. Sanders put up career-high numbers in 2014 with 101 catches, 1,404 yards and nine receiving touchdowns. He would not have put up those numbers in Kansas City.
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KC - WR Dwayne Bowe could be cut
Source: ESPN.com - Adam Teicher
Kansas City Chiefs WR Dwayne Bowe is a candidate to be cut this offseason if the team can't work out a reduced contract with him.
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Bowe is not set to be a free agent until 2018 with his current contract. This deal pays him an annual average salary of $11.2 million and it had $20 million guaranteed. This was one of the worst deals the Chiefs have done in recent years.
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CIN - OLB Vontaze Burfict expected to be ready for camp
Source: Bengals.com - Geoff Hobson
Cincinnati Bengals LB Vontaze Burfict (knee) is expected to be ready for training camp next season, according to defensive coordinator Paul Guenther.
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Burfict is still considering whether he will undergo surgery on his knee. He needs to decide soon so he can begin the recovery process. If Burfict is ready by the start of camp, the Bengals would be wise to ease him back into the lineup with an eye on him starting the regular-season opener in 2015.
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SD - QB Philip Rivers focuses on rest
Source: ESPN.com - Eric D. Williams
San Diego Chargers QB Philip Rivers (back, ribs) is looking forward to resting and rehabbing in the offseason after absorbing 36 sacks this season and dealing with a bulging disc in his back and injured ribs down the stretch. He may tailor his offseason workouts a bit after focusing on endurance training and mobility last offseason. Rivers won't commit to whether he'll need offseason surgery on his back.
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Good move for the veteran here. Rivers took a league-high 544 attempts out of the shotgun this year, according to ESPN Stats & Information. He was ranked 30th in the league in play-action passes, even though he completed a league-high 82$ of play-action passes for 495 yards, four touchdowns and no interceptions.
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CAR - QB Cam Newton hasn't fared well against Seattle
Source: ESPN.com - Terry Blount
Carolina Panthers QB Cam Newton is 0-3 against the Seattle Seahawks in his career, with all three games coming in Carolina. He has completed just 54% of his passes in those three games, and he's thrown just one touchdown and has one interception.
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The last three Panthers/Seahawks game have been 13-9, 12-7 and 16-12. As you can see, all three games were defensive battles where neither team did much offensively. Yes, Newton is winless against the Seahawks but know that each game has been hard fought and low scoring.
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CIN - Marvin Lewis happy with QB Andy Dalton
Source: NFL.com - Dan Hanzus
Cincinnati Bengals QB Andy Dalton showed improvement this season and is expected to become a better quarterback next season, according to head coach Marvin Lewis. Lewis said he is glad that Dalton is on the team.
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Dalton's numbers took a massive dip this year as the team used a more run-heavy approach. We've seen Dalton be a good to very good regular season quarterback, but with the loss against the Colts on Sunday he's now 0-4 in his postseason career.
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GB - QB Aaron Rodgers progressing
Source: ESPN.com - Rob Demovsky
Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers (calf) is getting better, according to head coach Mike McCarthy, and will be evaluated Wednesday, Jan. 7. He could practice before Thursday, Jan. 8.
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The plan was to let Rodgers rest as much as possible. If he does practice on Thursday, we think he'll be very limited. Perhaps he'll be able to fully participate in practice on Friday.
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ARI - WR Jaron Brown avoids surgery
Source: The Arizona Republic - Kent Somers
Arizona Cardinals WR Jaron Brown (shoulder) will not need surgery on his fractured scapula. The team hopes he will be able to return in time for organized team activities this offseason.
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Brown is an interesting player to keep an eye on in dynasty leagues. His speed and ball-tracking ability make him a nice fit for the Cardinals offense. With Larry Fitzgerald likely moving on in 2015, we could see Brown have a larger opportunity than some think.
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CIN - TE Tyler Eifert should be ready for camp
Source: Bengals.com - Geoff Hobson
Cincinnati Bengals TE Tyler Eifert (elbow, shoulder) said he expects to be ready for the start of training camp.
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The Bengals are likely to be cautious with Eifert as he returns from this injury. We should see him eased in at the start of training camp. We'll know more as the summer camps get closer.
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CAR - Philly Brown day-to-day
Source: NFL.com - Kevin Patra
Carolina Panthers WR Philly Brown (shoulder) is considered day-to-day after injuring his shoulder in the team's wild-card playoff win over the Arizona Cardinals Saturday, Jan. 3.
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Brown was beat up in the game against the Cardinals. His playing status for the Divisional Round is up in the air right now. Check back to see if he can practice later in the week.
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DEN - OLB Brandon Marshall, S T.J. Ward practicing
Source: ESPN.com - Jeff Legwold
Denver Broncos LB Brandon M. Marshall (foot) and FS T.J. Ward (neck) are participating in practice Monday, Jan. 5.
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The Broncos defense will get a boost with both players likely to return to the starting lineup on Sunday against the Colts. Ward gives them toughness in the box, and Marshall gives them an athletic linebacker who can cover. Denver earned a much-needed bye and were able to heal during Wild Card Weekend.
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BUF - Mike Shanahan interviews
Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter
Former Washington Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan met with Buffalo Bills owners Terry and Kim Pegula Sunday, Jan. 4, regarding the team's head coaching position.
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Shanahan is making the rounds after spending 2014 out of football. Several teams have interest, but Buffalo could be the most-likely landing spot. If added, Shanahan might try to see if the Bills could add QB Kirk Cousins via trade. Cousins was drafted by Shanahan in the fourth round of the 2012 NFL draft, and he is a favorite of the veteran coach.
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CIN - RB Jeremy Hill injured ankle
Source: The Associated Press
Cincinnati Bengals RB Jeremy Hill (ankle) injured his ankle in the team's wild-card playoff loss to the Indianapolis Colts Sunday, Jan. 4. Hill had 13 carries for 47 yards and a touchdown in the loss.
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There's a reason why Hill was so quiet in the second half against the Colts. The rookie had a fantastic year, and he's certainly going to be in the conversation of first-round running backs for fantasy owners in 2015.
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BAL - QB Joe Flacco excels in playoffs
Source: ESPN.com - Jamison Hensley
Baltimore Ravens QB Joe Flacco is now 10-4 in the playoffs in his career after beating the Pittsburgh Steelers in the wild-card playoff round this weekend, and he's recorded seven of those wins on the road, which is two more than any other quarterback in NFL history. Flacco has tossed 13 touchdown passes and no interceptions in his last five playoff games. 'Joe Flacco, what can you say,' head coach John Harbaugh said. 'He's the best quarterback in football. We'll take him any day of the week, twice on Sunday or Saturday if that be the case.'
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Flacco has his fair share of struggles in the regular season. However, when the calendar turns and Baltimore is in the postseason, Flacco might be the best playoff QB in the league.
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Source: footballguys.com

Wrigley · 01-06-15, 11:24 AM

I would love to see Fitz go to the Pats

mr. leisure · 01-06-15, 11:46 AM

TB - Marc Trestman interviewed
Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport
Former Chicago Bears head coach Marc Trestman interviewed for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' open offensive coordinator position Monday, Jan. 5, according to sources.
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Trestman has a bright mind for offensive football, and he can develop most any quarterback not named Jay Cutler. He'll be able to boost any offense he runs in 2015.
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LOL @ cutler thrown under the bus .

Big Bear · 01-06-15, 11:47 AM

Any word on the Rodgers injury ?

LT Profits · 01-06-15, 11:50 AM

Originally posted by Big Bear

Any word on the Rodgers injury ?

It's in there.

GB - QB Aaron Rodgers progressing
Source: ESPN.com - Rob Demovsky
Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers (calf) is getting better, according to head coach Mike McCarthy, and will be evaluated Wednesday, Jan. 7. He could practice before Thursday, Jan. 8.
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The plan was to let Rodgers rest as much as possible. If he does practice on Thursday, we think he'll be very limited. Perhaps he'll be able to fully participate in practice on Friday.

jimk6969 · 01-06-15, 06:38 PM

As a Dolphin fan I don't want Fitz even in the state of Massachusetts

thezzzone · 01-06-15, 07:53 PM

Thanks for grabbing and posting this info. LT. It's appreciated!

SEAHAWKHARRY · 01-06-15, 08:24 PM

Originally posted by Big Bear

thread title is misleading.

most of those players are not even playing in the Divisional Playoffs.

Okung is back and healthy right?

Yes the SEATTLE seahawks are 100% healthy bear...I just got off the phone with my buddy PETE he said practice was great today lynch has a tummy ache too many skittles. We all good for SAT NITE BEAR!!!!

Robber · 01-06-15, 11:36 PM

Did the week off help heal whatever ails manning?

smitch124 · 01-06-15, 11:43 PM

Originally posted by Robber

Did the week off help heal whatever ails manning?

Only a time machine or the fountain of youth could do that, and Ponce De Leon is not walking through that door.

Grits n' Gravy · 01-07-15, 01:39 AM

Originally posted by jimk6969

As a Dolphin fan I don't want Fitz even in the state of Massachusetts

Too late...at least 20% of the city workers have Fitz in their last name.

Wrigley · 01-07-15, 06:39 AM

where is Ndamukong Suh going to end up any rumors?

LT Profits · 01-07-15, 07:23 AM

GB - QB Aaron Rodgers not worried about calf
Source: ESPN.com - Rob Demovsky
Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers (calf) said he's not worried about reinjuring his calf in the team's divisional round game against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday, Jan. 11. 'That's not a concern,' Rodgers said. 'If it happens, it happens. At that point, it's out of my control. I've got to get myself in the best position to play and then realize whatever limitations I might have moving. Maybe I won't have any. Maybe we'll get to Sunday, and I'll feel great. Or maybe I'll be very limited. It just depends on how I'm feeling this week, and we'll adjust accordingly.' A decision on how much he'll practice this week will be made Wednesday, Jan. 7, when he's re-evaluated.
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We'll likely see Rodgers limited this week in practice as he deals with this calf injury. The team wants to get him as healthy as possible before their big game at home against the Cowboys in the Divisional Round.
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IND - QB Andrew Luck shows maturity
Source: ESPN.com - Mike Wells
Indianapolis Colts QB Andrew Luck was often forced to throw the ball underneath to keep drives going against the Cincinnati Bengals in the wild-card playoff win last weekend. Luck targeted RB Dan Herron 11 times, and the running back caught 10 of those for 85 yards. Luck was also 7-for-11 for 126 yards and a touchdown on blitzes. He also didn't commit a turnover after turning the ball over 22 times during the regular season.
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Luck essentially took what was there against the Bengals on Wild Card Weekend. He'll follow a similar strategy against a tougher Broncos defense on Sunday in the Divisional Round. Connecting on longer targets could prove to be difficult against guys like Chris Harris and Aqib Talib.
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IND - Dan Herron to return to starting role
Source: ESPN.com - Mike Wells
Indianapolis Colts RB Dan Herron will return to a starting role against the Denver Broncos in the divisional round game Sunday, Jan. 11, after fumbling twice in the team's wild-card playoff win last weekend. Herron was pulled from the game in favor of RB Zurlon Tipton after fumbling the second time, but he returned to the game later.
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Herron had a good game with a large role against the Bengals. Running room will be much tougher to come by against the Broncos no.2 ranked rush defense.
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ARI - WR Larry Fitzgerald situation progressing
Source: FoxSports910.com
Arizona Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald and the team have reportedly both made positive movement regarding Fitzgerald's contract.
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Good news for the Cardinals here. Fitzgerald is due an $8 million bonus in March, so the two sides have some time to get this done. Reportedly unhappy with his role on offense, Fitzgerald could be traded or released if a more team-friendly deal isn't worked out.
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STL - WR Kenny Britt wants to stay in St. Louis
Source: St. Louis Post-Dispatch - Jim Thomas
St. Louis Rams WR Kenny Britt said he wants to return to St. Louis next year. Britt will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason.
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Britt wants to stay with Jeff Fisher. A first-round pick by Fisher and the Tennessee Titans in 2009, Britt has struggled with injuries and inconsistencies as a pro. He recorded a career-high 48 catches with the Rams in 2014.
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SEA - RB Marshawn Lynch held down by CAR
Source: ESPN.com - David Newton
Seattle Seahawks RB Marshawn Lynch is averaging just 63.3 yards in three career games against the Carolina Panthers, and he had 62 yards on 14 carries when the two teams met in October.
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The Panthers/Seahawks games are always close. We'll see Carolina make a concentrated effort to slow down Lynch in the Divisional Round. Keep this history in mind if you're playing the daily games this week.
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SEA - QB Russell Wilson undefeated against CAR
Source: ESPN.com - Terry Blount
Seattle Seahawks QB Russell Wilson is 3-0 in his career against the Carolina Panthers, with all three games coming on the road against them. He also rallied his team to victory in the second half of each of those wins. Wilson is 64-for-90 (71%) against the Panthers for an average of 247 yards per game and a 91.8 quarterback rating. He also has only 54 yards rushing on 16 carries in those three games against Carolina.
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Wilson should be on point against the Panthers this week, but nobody should expect him to light things up through the air. These Seahawks/Panthers games have always been low-scoring affairs. This game is in Seattle (last three have been in Carolina), but the outcome may be the same--a close win for the Seahawks.
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DEN - QB Peyton Manning to have normal workload this week
Source: ESPN.com - Jeff Legwold
Denver Broncos QB Peyton Manning (thigh) threw in practice Monday, Jan. 5, and he will take his usual workload in practices for the remainder of the week.
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Manning's thigh injury appears to affect his ability to push off and drive the ball in the team's last two regular season games. We should see him look more like his old self in the postseason.
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DEN - OLB Danny Trevathan has surgery
Source: ESPN.com - Jeff Legwold
Denver Broncos LB Danny Trevathan (knee) underwent surgery on his dislocated left kneecap Tuesday, Jan. 6.
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Trevathan is looking to return for the start of training camp. The Broncos defense will get a boost when he's able to return to the field.
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DEN - OLB Brandon Marshall key to defense
Source: ESPN.com - Jeff Legwold
Denver Broncos LB Brandon M. Marshall (foot), who is expected to return for the divisional round game against the Indianapolis Colts Sunday, Jan. 11, is a key player for the team's defense in matchups, especially relating to opposing tight ends. The Broncos allowed nine touchdown passes to tight ends this season, including three TDs in the last five games. In Marshall's absence, LBs Todd Davis and Corey Nelson struggled in pass coverage. Marshall was the team's leading tackler this year with 113, and he's an every-down player at the position.
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Marshall has done a good job filling in for an injured Danny Trevathan. He's better in coverage than expected, plus Marshall has a nose for the ball as a run-defense.
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DEN - TE Julius Thomas feeling better
Source: ESPN.com - Jeff Legwold
Denver Broncos TE Julius Thomas (ankle) said the team's off week last week was big for him to be able to rest his ankle injury heading into the divisional round matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. “I feel better,' Thomas said following Monday's workout. “(I was) able to loosen things up a little bit and start to have a little more movement out there, so it’s definitely coming along.'
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A healthy Thomas is a huge benefit for the Broncos offense. Thomas scored three touchdowns against the Colts in Week 1 when he was fully healthy.
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- Jameis Winston decision to come next week
Source: NFL.com
Florida State University QB Jameis Winston is expected to make a decision on whether he will enter the NFL draft next week, after the college football national championship game.
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Winston is likely a top-10 (maybe top-5) pick in the 2015 NFL draft. We have a feeling that he'll declare for the 2015 NFL draft. Winston is a good passer in the pocket, but zone defense creates a lot of problems for him. The strong-armed FSU quarterback is better when throwing into single coverage on the outside. Winston is also athletic enough to make plays as a runner. Think of him like a raw version of Ben Roethlisberger. The bigger question for teams will be if he's able to handle the off the field part of the game. We'll see.
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PIT - QB Ben Roethlisberger could have surgery
Source: NFL.com - Kevin Patra
Pittsburgh Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger (knee) could have minor offseason surgery on his knee to get it cleaned up, according to head coach Mike Tomlin.
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Roethlisberger said he didn't suffer a concussion (it was reported to be whiplash) in the team's wild-card playoff loss to the Baltimore Ravens, and his hand is also fine.
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PIT - Le'Veon Bell will have normal offseason
Source: NFL.com - Kevin Patra
Pittsburgh Steelers RB Le'Veon Bell's (knee) injury isn't expected to affect his offseason work. Head coach Mike Tomlin said Bell could have played this weekend if the team had advanced.
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Bell suffered a hyperextended knee in Week 17 against the Bengals, and he could have played this weekend had the Steelers won in the Wild Card round. You're looking at the number one pick in multiple fantasy leagues next season.
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CAR - RB Jonathan Stewart not practicing Tuesday
Source: The Charlotte Observer - Joseph Person
Carolina Panthers RB Jonathan Stewart is taking the day off from practice Tuesday, Jan. 6.
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Just some rest for Stewart here. Check back to make sure he can practice later in the week.
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BAL - WR Steve Smith has little success against Revis
Source: ESPN.com - Jamison Hensley
Baltimore Ravens WR Steve Smith has been held to just two catches for 21 yards in three games when he's been matched up against New England Patriots CB Darrelle Revis in his career, according to Pro Football Focus.
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This is going to be an interesting matchup. Ravens QB Joe Flacco has thrown Revis' way a total of three times out of 164 snaps for the Ravens.
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NE - WR Brandon LaFell practicing
Source: CSNNE.com - Phil Perry
New England Patriots WR Brandon LaFell (leg) is participating in practice Tuesday, Jan. 6.
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LaFell's ability to be a deep target will come in handy against a Ravens secondary that has been barraged by injury.
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DAL - QB Tony Romo doesn't like the cold?
Source: ESPN Stats and Information - Jason Vida
Dallas Cowboys QB Tony Romo has a 26.0 Total QBR in his career when game-time temperatures are 32 degrees or lower.
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This is one of those interesting but probably not very telling stats. Also known as "Beware The Super Small Sample Size". Going to Lambeau to take on the Packers this week will be a challenge, but we expect Romo and the Cowboys to be ready.
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Source: footballguys.com

Big Bear · 01-07-15, 08:12 AM

Originally posted by Wrigley

where is Ndamukong Suh going to end up any rumors?

i have not heard any rumors.

Is he a FA?

Auto Donk · 01-07-15, 09:22 AM

Originally posted by Big Bear

i have not heard any rumors.

Is he a FA?

crap, romo is doomed.........

LT Profits · 01-07-15, 09:49 AM

Hale: FSU QB Jameis Winston will turn pro

FSU redshirt sophomore QB Jameis Winston will enter the 2015 NFL Draft, according to David Hale of ESPN.

This was the expected decision, but it was drawn out a bit more than anticipated. Apparently Winston was considering returning to school for another season, however, he ultimately came to the decision to enter the draft. Winston will officially announce his decision today. We think Jameis is an outstanding talent, since he is very comfortable in the pocket even when pressured thanks to positive eye level and patience to go through progressions. Still, teams make it a point to find out everything about prospects and each will weigh in his decision making differently. He could go as high as the top pick or the second-round.
Source: Kevin Negandhi on Twitter
Jan 7 - 9:39 AM ET

LT Profits · 01-07-15, 09:53 AM

Originally posted by Big Bear

i have not heard any rumors.

Is he a FA?

Yes.

Ndamukong Suh: Latest News, Rumors and Speculation on Free-Agent DT

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2321262-ndamukong-suh-rumors-latest-details-speculation-on-lions-stars-future

Otters27 · 01-07-15, 10:14 AM

Originally posted by Grits n' Gravy

Gordon to Pats would be interesting but with Hernandez trial starting soon it will be a tough sell in the local news.

Gordon smokning weed is not like Hernandez murdering people. But I see your point

Big Bear · 01-07-15, 10:52 AM

Originally posted by Otters27

Gordon smokning weed is not like Hernandez murdering people. But I see your point

lol yeah Hernandez is on trial for murdering 3 people.

all Gordon wanted to do was emancipate his mind from mental slavery.

Cross · 01-07-15, 03:44 PM

I think Rodgers should be full go from the news.

MikeTizzy · 01-07-15, 06:22 PM

great info and news reporting LT!

yisman · 01-07-15, 11:51 PM

No way Winston could go back to FSU

They can't cover stuff up much longer

Grits n' Gravy · 01-08-15, 12:50 AM

Originally posted by Otters27

Gordon smokning weed is not like Hernandez murdering people. But I see your point

Boston media is ruthless. Without their support new players have little chance of being accepted.

LT Profits · 01-08-15, 08:08 AM

Thursday Update

NE - WR Julian Edelman working overtime
Source: ESPNBoston.com - Mike Reiss
New England Patriots WR Julian Edelman (concussion) has been working overtime with QB Tom Brady this week after Edelman missed the team's final two regular season games with a concussion. “We’ve been practicing the last week and a half or something; I know Tom a little bit here now, these last few years. He knows me. There’s a foundation,” Edelman said. 'But even if whatever happened didn’t happen, we still have to continue to try to get better. That’s what we’re trying to do -- staying after, throwing a couple extra routes, bouncing ideas off each other. Like any other week, I guess, but the stakes are a little higher.”
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Edelman will be ready to go against the Ravens this weekend. The Patriots will attack the weakness of the Ravens (their secondary) early and often with guys like Edelman and Brandon LaFell.
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DEN - WR Demaryius Thomas a full go
Source: DenverBroncos.com
Denver Broncos WR Demaryius Thomas (ankle, finger) fully participated in practice Wednesday, Jan. 7.
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Thomas played out of position the last time the Colts played the Broncos. In Week 1, Thomas was lining up in the slot at times as he filled in for a suspended Wes Welker. With Welker in the lineup, Thomas will star on the outside for the Broncos in the Divisional Round.
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DEN - QB Peyton Manning fully practices
Source: DenverBroncos.com
Denver Broncos QB Peyton Manning (thigh) fully participated in practice Wednesday, Jan. 7.
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Manning will be good to go against the Colts this week. We're expecting the Broncos to have a balanced attack in the Divisional Round.
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GB - QB Aaron Rodgers says he'll play
Source: ESPN.com - Rob Demovsky
Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers (calf) said there is no question that he'll play against the Dallas Cowboys in the divisional round game Sunday, Jan. 11. Head coach Mike McCarthy said Rodgers could return to practice Thursday, Jan. 8. 'I plan on Aaron playing Sunday,' McCarthy said. 'Today's schedule was for him to stay exclusively in the training room. There's still some things that he needs to work through. We'll see what tomorrow brings, if he'll be able to practice. It's day to day, but everything points in the direction of him playing.'
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The team is monitoring Rodgers closely this week. We should see him practice by Friday at the latest.
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DEN - QB Peyton Manning feels fine physically
Source: ESPN.com - Jeff Legwold
Denver Broncos QB Peyton Manning (thigh) said he feels fine physically heading into the divisional round game against the Indianapolis Colts Sunday, Jan. 11. Manning didn't throw a touchdown pass in two of the team's December games, and he had one four-interception game. He took his usual workload in both of the team's practices this week.
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It's not Manning, but it is the lack of space in the pocket. The offensive line is struggling to adequately protect Manning, and he lacks the arm strength to throw with proper velocity when space is cramped. If he has the room to fully follow through, Manning can still hit targets accurately 40-50 yards away.
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DAL - QB Tony Romo sits out Wednesday
Source: DallasCowboys.com
Dallas Cowboys QB Tony Romo (back) did not practice Wednesday, Jan. 7.
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Again, we'd be surprised if Romo actually practiced on Wednesday.
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DAL - RB DeMarco Murray practices in full
Source: DallasCowboys.com
Dallas Cowboys RB DeMarco Murray (hand) practiced in full Wednesday, Jan. 7.
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The Cowboys are going to use Murray early and often against the Packers. They need to soften up the Green Bay defense and keep Aaron Rodgers cold on the sidelines. That means they need to feature Murray as much as possible.
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IND - QB Andrew Luck struggles on road in playoffs
Source: ESPN Stats and Information
Indianapolis Colts QB Andrew Luck is 0-2 with a 50.5 completions percentage with two touchdowns and five interceptions in the playoffs on the road in his career. At home in the playoffs, he's 2-0 with a 67.4 completion percentage with five touchdowns and three interceptions.
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Luck is going to have his hands full against the Broncos. Denver can get after the quarterback with DeMarus Ware and Von Miller, plus their secondary features two top-10 cornerbacks in Aqib Talib and Chris Harris. The Colts are unlikely to have success on the ground against Denver's no.2 rushing defense, so expect them to go to the air early and often.
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NE - WR Brandon LaFell limited
Source: Patriots.com
New England Patriots WR Brandon LaFell (shoulder, toe) was limited in practice Wednesday, Jan. 7.
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LaFell will stretch the field against the Ravens injury-riddled secondary. He should be able to fully practice later in the week.
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NE - Limited practice for RB Jonas Gray
Source: Patriots.com
New England Patriots RB Jonas Gray (ankle) was limited in practice Wednesday, Jan. 7.
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The Patriots should smash it between the tackles with veteran RB LeGarrette Blount. When Gray gets on the field, it will be when Blount needs a breather.
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NE - RB LeGarrette Blount limited Wednesday
Source: Patriots.com
New England Patriots RB LeGarrette Blount (illness) was limited in practice Wednesday, Jan. 7.
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Blount will be a key player for the Patriots. He will be asked to soften up the Ravens defense between the tackles.
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GB - QB Aaron Rodgers resting Wednesday
Source: NFL.com
Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers (calf) stayed exclusively in the training room during practice Wednesday, Jan. 7, and he is listed as day-to-day for the divisional round game against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday, Jan. 11.
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Head coach Mike McCarthy still plans on Rodgers starting against the Cowboys.
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NE - QB Tom Brady a full participant
Source: The Baltimore Sun - Aaron Wilson
New England Patriots QB Tom Brady (ankle) participated fully in practice Wednesday, Jan. 7.
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If Brady has time to throw, he'll be able to tear up the Ravens injury-riddled secondary.
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BAL - QB Joe Flacco more aggressive in playoffs
Source: ESPN.com - Jamison Hensley
Baltimore Ravens QB Joe Flacco has averaged 15.3 yards per completion in five straight playoff wins, a testament to how aggressive he is throwing downfield in the postseason.
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He's okay in the regular season, but there is no doubt that Flacco is an incredible postseason quarterback. Flacco has yet to be intercepted in the playoffs, throwing 166 straight passes without connecting with his opponent.
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CAR - DT Star Lotulelei has surgery
Source: The Associated Press - Steve Reed
Updating a previous report, Carolina Panthers DT Star Lotulelei (foot) underwent surgery for a small fracture in his foot Wednesday, Jan. 7.
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Lotulelei would be able to return if the Panthers advance to the Super Bowl, but not for the NFC Championship game. We're not expecting the Panthers to make it that far.
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BAL - QB Joe Flacco will not avoid Darrelle Revis
Source: The Baltimore Sun - Aaron Wilson
Baltimore Ravens QB Joe Flacco said the team will not avoid throwing to the receiver that New England Patriots CB Darrelle Revis will be covering during the Divisional Round playoff game, because avoiding Revis could affect the team's performance. 'I think as a play-caller, you have to just go out there, rely on your guys that you have that are out there, rely on the fact that they have ability,' Flacco said. 'And as a quarterback, you have to go out there and just go through your reads. And if he's open, throw it to him; if he's not, don't.'
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Flacco doesn't make bad decisions in the playoffs. He's going to go after guys if they're open, no matter what cornerback is covering them.
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BAL - TE Owen Daniels not practicing
Source: The Baltimore Sun - Jeff Zrebiec
Baltimore Ravens TE Owen Daniels (undisclosed) is not participating in practice Wednesday, Jan. 7.
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They're just giving him some rest here. Daniels should be able to practice later in the week.
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NYG - Odell Beckham named to Pro Bowl
Source: ESPNNewYork.com - Dan Graziano
New York Giants WR Odell Beckham Jr. was named to the Pro Bowl Wednesday, Jan. 7, replacing Detroit Lions WR Calvin Johnson.
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It's a sham that he wasn't already named as a Pro Bowler.
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IND - WR T.Y. Hilton dropping passes in playoffs
Source: ESPN.com - Mike Wells
Indianapolis Colts WR T.Y. Hilton has been targeted the third most times (53) in the last three years in the playoffs, but his six drops are a league high in the playoffs in that span. Hilton dropped three passes last week in the wild-card playoff win over the Cincinnati Bengals while still managing to catch six passes for 103 yards.
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The Colts need Hilton to play up to his potential against the Broncos on Sunday. Against Denver's no.2 rush defense, Indy is likely to have to go through the air in order to keep things close. This means lots of targets for Hilton. We'll see if he can come through for Andrew Luck this week.
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BUF - Doug Whaley still high on QB EJ Manuel
Source: The Buffalo News - Vic Carucci
Buffalo Bills QB EJ Manuel's struggles this past season were related to coaching issues, according to general manager Doug Whaley. Whaley has been telling this to head coaching candidates and has talked in glowing terms about Manuel during interviews, according to a source.
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Even though Manuel has been a bust to this point, the Bills are not giving up on him. Manuel has a strong work ethic, so he'll put in as much work as possible to turn things around. Expect the Bills to bring another QB or two on board to compete for the starting job in 2015.
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OAK - RB Maurice Jones-Drew hopes to return
Source: NFL.com - Marc Sessler
Oakland Raiders RB Maurice Jones-Drew said he hopes to return to the team next season even though he wished he would have received more work this season. Jones-Drew finished the season with 98 yards on 43 carries.
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Why would they bring Jones-Drew back? He's simply not the same player he used to be. The Raiders would save $2.5 million in salary cap space if they released Jones-Drew.
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- Rex Ryan meeting with CBS
Source: New York Daily News - Manish Mehta
Free-agent head coach Rex Ryan (Jets) is meeting with CBS executives Wednesday, Jan. 7, to discuss a possible TV role if he does not land a head coaching position.
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Ryan may not get into TV just yet....but we can't wait until he does. He's going to be fantastic on TV as an analyst.
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NYG - Perry Fewell fired
Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter
New York Giants defensive coordinator Perry Fewell has been fired Wednesday, Jan. 7.
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While the Giants offense has gotten better under OC Ben McAdoo, the defense had gotten worse under Fewell. The team needs to go in a different direction to help that side of the ball.
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BAL - WR Torrey Smith has solid prospects
Source: The Baltimore Sun - Aaron Wilson
Baltimore Ravens WR Torrey Smith is expected to line up against New England Patriots CB Brandon Browner for most of the divisional-round playoff game Saturday, Jan. 10.
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Browner is a larger cornerback that love to play physical near the line of scrimmage. He also bites hard on the ball looking for a big hit.
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BAL - WR Steve Smith to meet Revis Island
Source: The Baltimore Sun - Aaron Wilson
Baltimore Ravens WR Steve Smith is expected to line up against New England Patriots CB Darrelle Revis for most of the divisional-round playoff game Saturday, Jan. 10.
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Revis is still one of the best corners in the game, and Smith will find getting open difficult. The Ravens are going to have to look elsewhere if Smith is locked down by Revis.
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- Jameis Winston entering NFL Draft
Source: ESPN.com - David Hale
Florida State QB Jameis Winston will forego his junior and senior seasons to enter the 2015 NFL Draft.
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Winston is an option to be the number one overall pick in the 2015 NFL draft. He's got a skill set reminiscent of Ben Roethlisberger. Winston is big, athletic enough to pick up yards with his legs and has a strong arm. He does struggle against basic zone coverage, but Winston can exploit defenses in man-to-man coverage. Winston does come with some off-field baggage which teams will have to investigate.
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OAK - Oakland interested in Kyle Shanahan
Source: The Cleveland Plain Dealer - Mary Kay Cabot
The Oakland Raiders are interested in possibly hiring Cleveland Browns offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan as their offensive coordinator, sources said Tuesday, Jan. 6.
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The Raiders are showing due diligence here by examining multiple different coaching options. Shanahan is open to a lateral move due to friction in Cleveland between coaches and the front office.
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JAX - Kirby Wilson up for OC job in Jacksonville
Source: ESPN.com - Ben Goessling
Minnesota Vikings running backs coach Kirby Wilson will interview with the Jacksonville Jaguars for their offensive coordinator position Thursday, Jan. 8, according to a league source.
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The Jaguars are looking at a few different options to help out their offense. Wilson reportedly would be competing for the job against former Chicago Bears head coach Marc Trestman and San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator Greg Roman.
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SF - QB Colin Kaepernick to train with Kurt Warner
Source: Sacramento Bee - Matt Barrows
San Francisco 49ers QB Colin Kaepernick will train in the Phoenix area at EXOS performance where he will study with former NFL QB Kurt Warner and quarterback coach Dennis Gile during the offseason. Warner will work with Kaepernick on film study and 7-on-7 drills.
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This is a positive sign for the young quarterback as he needs all the help he can get. Kaepernick is a pure-sight thrower and currently lacks the anticipation to be an effective pocket passer. We'll see if working with Warner can help.
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NYG - Chris Boswell, QB Ricky Stanzi sign
Source: NFL
The New York Giants signed PK Chris Boswell (Texans) and QB Ricky Stanzi (Texans) to Reserve/Futures contracts Wednesday, Jan. 7.
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Stanzi has a big arm but little accuracy. He's bounced around the league, and he's not a player to monitor even if you're in a super super deep dynasty league.
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Source: footballguys.com

Wrigley · 01-08-15, 11:44 AM

Originally posted by Big Bear

i have not heard any rumors.

Is he a FA?

I believe he is there were rumors saying thats why he was so emotional after the loss to Dallas that he knew it was probably the last time he wuld be dressing for Detriot

LT Profits · 01-08-15, 02:35 PM

Report: Rodgers has 'slight tear' in calf

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports Aaron Rodgers is dealing with a "slight tear" in his calf in addition to a "significant" strain.

Rodgers is fully expected to start Sunday's game against the Cowboys, but sounds like he'll be doing so at significantly less than 100 percent. "The question is whether he’ll be 95 percent or 50 percent," were the words of a "doctor familiar with the injury." Rodgers is expected to participate in team drills on Thursday, but is getting in limited practice reps this week. The good news, of course, is that Rodgers played through the injury in Week 17, but his mobility sounds like it will be highly limited against Dallas. He's also at risk of re-injury.
Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter
Jan 8 - 1:45 PM ET

Auto Donk · 01-08-15, 06:38 PM

Originally posted by LT Profits

Report: Rodgers has 'slight tear' in calf

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports Aaron Rodgers is dealing with a "slight tear" in his calf in addition to a "significant" strain.

Rodgers is fully expected to start Sunday's game against the Cowboys, but sounds like he'll be doing so at significantly less than 100 percent. "The question is whether he’ll be 95 percent or 50 percent," were the words of a "doctor familiar with the injury." Rodgers is expected to participate in team drills on Thursday, but is getting in limited practice reps this week. The good news, of course, is that Rodgers played through the injury in Week 17, but his mobility sounds like it will be highly limited against Dallas. He's also at risk of re-injury.
Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter
Jan 8 - 1:45 PM ET

\

hopefully cowboys knock him out early