NFL Player News - Week of 5/16/16

**supersaintjames** · 05-16-16, 12:08 PM

this weekend was a financial disaster

**mpaschal34** · 05-16-16, 12:35 PM

Pick a fork in Cruz...he's done.

**LT Profits** · 05-17-16, 06:03 AM

Tuesday Update

BUF - WR Sammy Watkins has broken bone

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

Buffalo Bills WR Sammy Watkins (foot) suffered a broken small bone in his foot and had a screw inserted, according to a source. According to Rapoport, he should still be ready for training camp, however.

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We think the training camp timeline from Rapoport is incredibly optimistic. We think Watkins won't play in the preseason and will only sparingly see time in practice late in August. The team wants him ready for Week 1 of the regular season, and he should be ready unless Watkins suffers a setback during his recovery.

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SF - Chip Kelly impressed with QB Blaine Gabbert

Source: 49ers.com

San Francisco 49ers QB Blaine Gabbert has impressed new head coach Chip Kelly with his athleticism in offseason workouts. 'He's extremely athletic,' Kelly began. 'It's interesting, the three of them, if you look at Driskel, Blaine and Kap, they're all 6-4 plus, and all can run. All of them are at 4.6 (seconds in the 40-yard dash) or under 4.6, which is kind of rare to have three guys that can do the same thing. It's beneficial to you.'

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Weep for the 49ers football fans. A rich history at QB which includes all-time greats like Joe Montana and Steve Young is now entrusted to....Blaine Gabbert. Perhaps Gabbert can fit in the Kelly system, but we are doubtful about his ability to be a quality starter. When healthy, Colin Kaepernick will be able to push Gabbert for the starting job.

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NFL - Tom Coughlin ready to return?

Source: ESPN.com

Former New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin said he's already considering a return to coaching and that his 'motor is starting to run again.' 'We'll see,' Coughlin said. 'It'll take two to tango. The 70-year-old man stuff will be a factor, and I'm sure they'll know this would be a three- and four-year thing.'

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Forget popcorn, get your Werther's Originals ready. Coughlin has been an interesting head coach with the Jaguars and the Giants. He won two Super Bowl championships leading the Giants, but it will be interesting to see if any team wants to add him as Coughlin is no spring chicken.

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TEN - QB Zach Mettenberger waived

Source: ESPN.com - Field Yates

Tennessee Titans QB Zach Mettenberger was waived Monday, May 16.

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Mettenberger has a big arm, but he can't throw it into the ocean standing on the beach. Some thought the Titans would trade away Mettenberger after they selected Marcus Mariota with the second-overall pick in the 2015 NFL draft. They signed Matt Cassel to back up Mariota, so Mettenberger became expendable.

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NYJ - RB Matt Forte not ready to slow down

Source: New York Post - Steve Serby

New York Jets RB Matt Forte said he wants break the older running back stereotype, and his goal is to rush for 1,000 yards and catch as many passes as the offense allows.

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The Jets offense is going to have questionable QB play--even if Ryan Fitzpatrick returns to the team. They should feature Forte as the centerpiece of the offense. Jets OC Chan Gailey should be able to find the best ways to use Forte as a runner and receiver. We see Forte as at least a low-end RB1 with his new team.

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SEA - WR Doug Baldwin focused on hands

Source: ESPN.com - Jim Trotter

Seattle Seahawks WR Doug Baldwin wants to focus on his catch rate for next season, ideally hauling in any catchable target.

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It will be difficult for Baldwin to duplicate the TD numbers he posted last year. Before last year, Baldwin had scored 15 TDs in four years...in 2015 he had 14 TDs. That number could be cut in half this year, and fantasy owners need to realize how Seattle is going to get back to dominating on the ground. Baldwin only dropped two passes in 2015 while catching 78 balls, 14 of which were touchdowns.

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SEA - More running for Seattle?

Source: ESPN.com - Jim Trotter

Seattle Seahawks RBs Thomas Rawls, Christine Michael and C.J. Prosise could be called on early and often in 2016, according to WR Doug Baldwin. Baldwin said the Seahawks are going to go back to the run game and not pass as much this season.

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The Seahawks certainly emphasized the RB position in the draft by taking three players at the position. Prosise was the first of the three backs they selected, and he's a good all-purpose back who is still learning the position after starting his college career at Notre Dame as a WR. Alex Collins (Arkansas) was the team's choice in the fifth round, and we like his one-cut style, power and ability to get to the second level of the defense. Seventh-round pick Zac Brooks has good measurables but may need some development on the practice squad. Fantasy owners need to note the glut of RBs in Seattle and how that could negatively impact the production of Rawls at the top of the depth chart.

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BUF - Shaq Lawson out 5-6 months

Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter

Updating a previous report, Buffalo Bills DE Shaq Lawson (shoulder) is expected to be out five to six months.

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This is different from earlier reports that suggested Lawson would be ready for the start of the regular season. We're in mid-May, so five months would be sometime in October. Chances are good that the team's 2016 first-round pick begins the regular season on the PUP list. That would force Lawson to miss the first six weeks of the year. After that, the Bills would have three weeks to decide whether or not to activate him or put him on season-ending Injured Reserve.

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NE - WR Danny Amendola recovering

Source: Boston Herald - Jeff Howe

New England Patriots WR Danny Amendola (knee, ankle) is recovering from a pair of offseason surgeries that could prevent him being ready for the start of the 2016 season. Amendola had surgery on a troublesome left knee and another surgery to remove a bone spur in his ankle, according to a source. Both surgeries happened early this offseason.

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Amendola accepted a pay cut earlier this year...and for good reason. He's got to spend quite a bit of time recovering from these injuries before he's ready for the 2016 season. It's still too early to know when Amendola will be fully recovered, but his knee will demand a longer recovery schedule than his ankle.

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DEN - Paxton Lynch, Trevor Siemian to see more reps

Source: NFL.com - Kevin Patra

Denver Broncos QBs Paxton Lynch and Trevor Siemian will see all the snaps in organized team activities with QB Mark Sanchez (thumb) expected to miss the start of workouts after having surgery on his left thumb.

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Lynch is the player to highlight here. The team wanted to see if he'd be ready to assume the starting job in Week 1 against the Carolina Panthers. The Broncos have not been shy about mentioning how they're going to push Lynch to see if he can handle a starter's workload this year. This injury to Sanchez opens a huge door for the rookie passer.

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WAS - No worries with RB Matt Jones

Source: 106.7 The Fan - Chris Russell

Washington Redskins RB Matt Jones is expected to stay healthy and secure the football this season, and general manager Scot McCloughan has no concerns that he can do both. McCloughan said Jones has looked great this offseason.

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Jones played in only 13 games last year as a rookie, but he did enough to earn the RB36 spot in standard-scoring leagues. With Alfred Morris (Cowboys) moving on, the team is going to turn Jones as their primary back. That larger workload should catapult him into the low-end RB2 range at least. We'll see if late-round pick Keith Marshall (Georgia) can push Jones for playing time in camp.

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DEN - QB Mark Sanchez underwent surgery

Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter

Denver Broncos QB Mark Sanchez (thumb) injured his left thumb in the weight room Thursday, May 12, and underwent surgery Saturday, May 14. He will miss a few organized team activities, according to Mike Kils of 9news.com.

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The Broncos are already microwaving the learning curve of rookie first-round pick Paxton Lynch. This injury to Sanchez is only going to give the rookie more exposure and reps in practice. The team has Trevor Siemian too, but he's just a big arm and clipboard holder. Perhaps while Sanchez is out the Broncos will sign a veteran camp arm.

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DEN - TE Virgil Green wants to prove himself

Source: The Denver Post - Troy E. Renck

Denver Broncos TE Virgil Green said he wants to prove in training camp that he can be an every-down tight end. It was reported earlier that Green could have a bigger role in 2016.

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Green is a better receiver than his career-high 12 receptions in 2016 shows. He was a reliable receiver for Colin Kaepernick in college at Nevada, but the Broncos have turned him into a strong blocking TE instead. Now, Green may be the lead TE for the Broncos in 2016 with only second-year TE Jeff Heuerman as his main competition. From a fantasy lens, we could see Green as a low-end TE2 if his production matches what Owen Daniels was able to get last year.

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SF - RB Carlos Hyde praised by head coach

Source: NFL.com - Kevin Patra

San Francisco 49ers RB Carlos Hyde was praised by new head coach Chip Kelly recently. 'Carlos is a stud. He's been full-go since we started in the beginning of April,' Kelly said. 'Participated in everything. And he's as advertised. To have someone that size that is that agile, has that vision, it's really impressive to see him work every day. There have been no restrictions on him at all. He's full clear, 100 percent, and he's going. He's really good, we're really excited about him.'

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Hyde is a one-cut back who should work nicely in the inside-zone, outside-zone option offense that Kelly implements. From a fantasy perspective, we see Hyde as a low-end RB2. His current ADP is RB18 (4.07) in 12-team PPR/flex leagues.

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ARI - S Tyrann Mathieu near extension

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

Arizona Cardinals FS Tyrann Mathieu is deep in negotiations for a contract extension Monday, May 16, that could make him the highest-paid safety in the league.

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It's a risky move to sign Mathieu to big long-term money. He's torn his ACL twice since 2013 and is somewhat injury prone dating back to his college days at LSU. If healthy, Mathieu can make plays as a slot corner or a safety. The Cardinals should be creative with the way they get this deal done.

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Source: footballguys.com

**mr. leisure** · 05-17-16, 07:01 PM

Paxton Lynch is going to get his chance to start right away .

**BarkingToad** · 05-18-16, 02:54 AM

Originally posted by mr. leisure

Paxton Lynch is going to get his chance to start right away .

He probably would have anyway even if Sanchez didn't hurt himself in the weight room.

**LT Profits** · 05-18-16, 06:01 AM

Wednesday Update

IND - QB Andrew Luck full-go Source: ESPN.com - Mike Wells
Indianapolis Colts QB Andrew Luck (shoulder, kidney) said he is full go with no limitations for organized team activities. He took part in every drill during OTAs.
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The Colts go as Luck goes. If he's healthy, the team can make a run at the postseason. Last year, Luck was beat down behind one of the league's worst offensive lines. And then missed the last part of the season. The Colts have made more than a few steps to improve the play up front, so Luck should be better protected this season. With an average (at best) rushing attack, the offense should flow through Luck. Fantasy owners should consider him his normal QB1 in drafts. He's current ADP is QB4 (5.04) in 12-team PPR leagues.
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SD - Claim QB Zach Mettenberger

Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter

Free-agent QB Zach Mettenberger (Titans) was claimed by the San Diego Chargers Tuesday, May 17.

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Mettenberger now gets reunited with former Titans head coach (and current Chargers OC) Ken Whisenhunt. We're not counting on some sort of career resurrection, but Mettenberger could win the backup job behind Philip Rivers in 2016. Kellen Clemens will be Mettenberger's competition for the no.2 job and a spot on the 53-man roster.

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SF - QB Colin Kaepernick not falling behind

Source: CSNBayArea.com - Matt Maiocco

San Francisco 49ers QB Colin Kaepernick (shoulder, thumb, knee) is not falling behind QB Blaine Gabbert despite still rehabilitating his injuries, according to head coach Chip Kelly. '[Kaepernick] has a great grasp of what we're doing,' Kelly said. 'I'm really impressed by both [Gabbert] and him and their intelligence and being able to pick up what we're trying to do.'

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We're not so sure about that. The Kelly offense isn't overly complex, but getting into a rhythm within the system is a must...and Kaepernick isn't healthy enough to do that just yet. We see Gabbert as the uninspiring front-runner in this competition. Kelly said he hasn't set a timetable for when the starter will be announced.

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PHI - RB Darren Sproles expected back

Source: NFL.com - Kevin Patra

Updating a previous report, Philadelphia Eagles RB Darren Sproles has been in contact with head coach Doug Pederson. Pederson fully expects Sproles to return for mandatory camps in June. Sproles has not been participating in organized team activities.

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There was some discussion about Sproles getting traded during the draft, but that talk has died down. The Eagles have Ryan Mathews as their lead back, and Sproles can continue to make plays as a change-of-pace back and return man.

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NYJ - OC likes Christian Hackenberg

Source: ESPNNewYork.com - Rich Cimini

New York Jets QB Christian Hackenberg has a great deal of potential and has good arm strength and intelligence, according to offensive coordinator Chan Gailey. Gailey said he is not worried that Hackenberg struggled in his last two college seasons.

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Gailey is a known "quarterback whisperer" but Hackenberg may not give him enough to work with. The rookie is tall, sees the field well and has a strong arm. However, he regularly makes poor decisions under pressure and is wildly inaccurate. At Penn State, Hackenberg had a 51.5 percent adjusted completion total (throws beyond line of scrimmage). He's a project to be sure, and Hackenberg may not be the franchise QB the Jets are hoping for.

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IND - DE Arthur Jones could be ready by camp

Source: ESPN.com - Mike Wells

There is hope that Indianapolis Colts DT Arthur Jones (ankle) may be ready for the start of training camp, according to head coach Chuck Pagano.

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Getting Jones back is a good thing for the Colts defense. Jones missed all of last season with an ankle injury. Injuries have kept Jones off the field for all but nine games since he signed with the Colts back in 2014.

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NYJ - DE Muhammad Wilkerson not close to deal

Source: ESPNNewYork.com - Rich Cimini

New York Jets DE Muhammad Wilkerson isn't close to a new contract and hasn't signed his franchise tender. He may not report until training camp in July.

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The two sides have until July 15th to work out a new long-term contract. Wilkerson wants security for years, but the Jets only seem willing to pay him for one year. We could see Wilkerson play under the franchise tag this year, then move on in free agency in 2017.

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WAS - WR Andre Roberts cut

Source: The Washington Post - Mike Jones

Washington Redskins WR Andre Roberts was released Tuesday, May 17.

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The move frees up nearly $4 million in cap space. Roberts lost his job to Jamison Crowder last year, and he was further buried on the depth chart when Washington added WR Josh Doctson (TCU) in the first round of the 2016 NFL draft. Roberts won't have a ton of suitors lined up for his services, but we could see him on a roster by the time training camp rolls around.

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WAS - Josh Doctson adjusting to new offense

Source: ESPN.com - John Keim

Washington Redskins WR Josh Doctson said he is working on learning the new routes he will have to run in the NFL. 'A lot of the routes are deeper,' Doctson said. 'A lot of deep in-breaking routes. I probably didn't run one double move in college and we have a whole arsenal of double moves here. It's a little different in and out of breaks, getting your hips around. Things like that.'

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Doctson was used early and often in college at TCU. He's a plus-possession receiver who can work underneath routes with ease. Doctson is fearless and has no problem pulling away from defenders after the catch. He should begin his pro career as a slot receiver behind DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon on the outside.

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Source: footballguys.com

**LT Profits** · 05-19-16, 08:44 AM

Thursday Update

DAL - Ezekiel Elliott signs rookie contract Source: ESPNDallas.com - Todd Archer

Dallas Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott signed his rookie four-year deal Wednesday, May 18, worth $24.9 million. The deal includes a $16.3 million signing bonus. All first-round picks have a fifth-year option in their deals.

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Dynasty owners are going to be salivating over getting Elliott with the first pick of their rookie drafts and we wouldn't be shocked to see him gone in the first round of redrafts as well. Elliott is an elite talent behind a tremendous offensive line and could be in line for an exceptional rookie year.

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PIT - WR Antonio Brown's dancing can help

Source: ESPN.com - Jeremy Fowler

Pittsburgh Steelers WR Antonio Brown believes his experience on Dancing With the Stars can give him an advantage on the football field. '[Dance training] can definitely help me with football, change of direction, fluidity, constantly being ready for the next move,' Brown said. 'Dancing is all about the next move, being prepared for the next move in the midst of any move. It will definitely help with ankle strength, pushing off, change of direction.'

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There's actually a long tradition of football players using other non-traditional forms of training to improve their games, including ballet. So Brown's right, it could help with his game. Of course, his game is already pretty high level, and he'll be one of the top fantasy WR1 next year.

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DEN - QB Mark Sanchez hopeful for OTAs

Source: The Denver Post - Troy E. Renck

Denver Broncos QB Mark Sanchez (thumb) is hopeful he'll be able to participate when organized team activities begin next week. Sanchez is currently recovering from surgery on his left thumb and he is encouraged by the progress of the recovery.

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This could give the Broncos a nice look at Paxton Lynch to see how he can handle the offense, but we expect Sanchez to be ready long before camp and there's every chance he'll win the starting role. The last time Sanchez had a good defense and a solid run game he went to back to back AFC Championships. Even if the Broncos defense regresses, they'll keep games close and the weapons he has to pass to are better than anything he's had. There's every chance that he can be successful with this offense this year.

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MIN - Bridgewater impressed with Laquon Treadwell

Source: Vikings.com

Minnesota Vikings QB Teddy Bridgewater has been impressed with WR Laquon Treadwell, the Vikings' first-round draft pick this year. 'He's been here with us for two days now, and he's been looking good,' Bridgewater added. 'I'm not qualified to judge players and things like that, but from what I've been seeing, I've been pretty impressed.'

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Treadwell could be a huge weapon for Bridgewater and a good fit along with Stefon Diggs and Charles Johnson. He's a great receiver on contested balls as well which should help bail Bridgewater out on errant passes. He's also an exceptional blocker which, given how often the Vikings run the ball with Adrian Peterson, is likely how he will be used much of this season.

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PHI - QB Sam Bradford works with first-team

Source: ESPN.com - Phil Sheridan

Philadelphia Eagles QB Sam Bradford worked with the first-team offense during organized team activities Tuesday, May 17, with QB Chase Daniel taking repetitions with the second-team and QB Carson Wentz with the third-team. 'I've actually talked to Sam since he's back,' head coach Doug Pederson said, 'and I told him: My feelings haven't changed. He's my guy. He's the No. 1 guy. I want him to embrace that and not look backward. Look forward.'

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Bradford has to prove to his teammates and the fans that he's willing to work for the job, especially after his hissy fit post-draft. Wentz is raw, but the future, so Bradford is also auditioning for his next potential starting gig.

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DAL - WR Dez Bryant out for OTAs

Source: Fort Worth Star-Telegram - Clarence E. Hill Jr.

Updating previous reports, Dallas Cowboys WR Dez Bryant (foot) will not take part in organized team activities next week, but he hasn't suffered any setbacks.

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No surprise here. The Cowboys are wisely taking a cautious approach with their superstar WR. He has done well with the conditioning and individual work so far. Bryant is running full speed and is on pace to be ready for training camp in July.

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NYJ - Teammate expects QB Ryan Fitzpatrick back

Source: NFL.com - Dan Hanzus

Free-agent QB Ryan Fitzpatrick (Jets) is not close to a contract agreement with the New York Jets, but Jets WR Eric Decker said he expects Fitzpatrick to be the starting quarterback in the first regular season game.

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Fitzpatrick is a seasoned veteran, so he doesn't need every offseason rep with the Jets as he already knows the Chan Gailey system like the back of his hand. The Jets drafted Christian Hackenberg (Penn State) in the second round of the 2016 NFL draft, but he's more of a developmental prospect who should sit for a year if possible. Geno Smith and Bryce Petty are the only other QBs on the roster. The Jets are at a stalemate right now with Fitzpatrick, but that could quickly change as we get closer to training camp.

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CLE - Terrelly Pryor getting better

Source: Akron Beacon Journal - Nate Ulrich

Cleveland Browns WR Terrelle Pryor has flashed the past few days in organized team activities and head coach Hue Jackson said Pryor is working hard and getting better every day.

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Even though there are a multitude of new rookie wide receivers in Cleveland, Pryor could still stick as his athleticism is intriguing. He has to improve more rapidly though, as it really is getting crowded in those receivers meetings.

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CLE - CB Joe Haden optimistic on status

Source: Akron Beacon Journal - Nate Ulrich

Cleveland Browns CB Joe Haden (ankle) said he believes he'll return in time for the regular season. Haden wasn't so sure about training camp, but said he'll try to be ready in time when that starts in late July. As reported earlier, Haden shed his walking boot Tuesday, May 17.

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The Browns are in full rebuild mode, but they still need a good defense and Haden is a key piece of it. In a tough division, they have to have Haden in the secondary.

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SF - WR DeAndre Smelter not limited

Source: CSNBayArea.com - Matt Maiocco

San Francisco 49ers WR DeAndre Smelter (knee) has been practicing without restrictions this offseason.

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Good news as Smelter is coming off a December ACL tear. Smelter is a big-bodied receiver with good physicality who will give the Niners quarterback - whoever it ends up being - a big target to throw to on shorter routes.

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SF - WR Anquan Boldin not contacted by 49ers

Source: CSNBayArea.com - Matt Maiocco

Free-agent WR Anquan Boldin (49ers) has not been contacted by head coach Chip Kelly since early February.

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The Niners could use a veteran presence but Boldin is past his prime and may not hold up well in the high-tempo offense Kelly wants to run. He still might land elsewhere though.

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MIA - Laremy Tunsil has ankle issue

Source: BleacherReport.com - Jason Cole

Miami Dolphins OT Laremy Tunsil (ankle) has a pre-arthritic ankle condition that may have contributed to his draft-day fall, according to sources. Some believe the condition may even be worse than Jacksonville Jaguars LB Myles Jack's knee issue.

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That's a tough note to hear, especially if you're a Miami Dolphin fan. We still haven't had firm confirmation of this, nor how it might impact his ability long and short term, but it bears watching.
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Source: footballguys.com

**mr. leisure** · 05-19-16, 10:30 AM

Tunsil sure has a lot of issues .

**Eddy Munny** · 05-19-16, 06:30 PM

I did some cross-checking of the facts you've presented in this thread, LT Profits, and I've discovered, much to my dismay and I'm sure the rest of the viewing forum, that a large portion of them are either distorted, bastardized versions of outdated information, half-truths, or out and out lies.

You are not above forum policy and I highly advise you to clean up your act or face the consequences. You've become a cancer to SBR and you can call me "Chemo."

**BarkingToad** · 05-20-16, 12:59 AM

Be interesting to see where Anquan Boldin goes.

**Eddy Munny** · 05-20-16, 02:51 AM

Originally posted by BarkingToad

Be interesting to see where Anquan Boldin goes.

I'm guessing between your mother's legs, like the rest of the league.

**LT Profits** · 05-20-16, 06:04 AM

Originally posted by Eddy Munny

I did some cross-checking of the facts you've presented in this thread, LT Profits, and I've discovered, much to my dismay and I'm sure the rest of the viewing forum, that a large portion of them are either distorted, bastardized versions of outdated information, half-truths, or out and out lies.

You are not above forum policy and I highly advise you to clean up your act or face the consequences. You've become a cancer to SBR and you can call me "Chemo."

Originally posted by Eddy Munny

I'm guessing between your mother's legs, like the rest of the league.

Are you OK buddy?

**LT Profits** · 05-20-16, 07:33 AM

Friday Update

JAX - Jalen Ramsey injured Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

Jacksonville Jaguars CB Jalen Ramsey, the Jags' first-round pick, suffered a knee injury, according to a source. It's believed to be a small meniscus tear, but a second opinion is coming next week. If everything is fine, Ramsey could be back by the start of training camp.

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Why can't the Jacksonville Jaguars have nice things? As our own Jene Bramel said on Twitter regarding the second opinion the team is seeking: "Second opinion on Jalen Ramsey likely information gathering on whether to remove injured meniscus (3-4 wks) or repair (3-4 mos)." One is brutal, the other survivable. We hope it's the former, as we want to see him, Myles Jack and recently returned 2015 first round pick Dante Fowler on the field together.

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JAX - Jalen Ramsey's timetable uncertain

Source: ESPNNewYork.com - Dan Graziano

Updating a previous report, Jacksonville Jaguars CB Jalen Ramsey's (knee) timetable for recovery could be four to six weeks or four to six months, depending on the second opinion he receives, according to a source. Ramsey has two possible treatment options for his meniscus tear.

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As we mentioned earlier today, this lines up with what Footballguys own Dr. Jene Bramel predicted. We will be waiting to see how this works out and when we will see Ramsey on the field.

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NYJ - QB Ryan Fitzpatrick deadline soon?

Source: NJ Advance Media - Dom Cosentino

The deadline for free-agent QB Ryan Fitzpatrick (Jets) could be sooner than expected. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport posits that the first legitimate deadline is when the Jets' organized team activities start Tuesday, May 24.

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The Jets aren't budging, no matter how much some in the media feel they should. GM Mike Maccagnan and coach Todd Bowles seem willing to wait and have Fitzpatrick come down on his requests or roll with Geno Smith, Christian Hackenberg and Bryce Petty. Unless some other team starts sniffing around Fitzpatrick, there's no urgency right now. Who will blink? We're thinking Fitzpatrick, unless there is an injury.

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KC - RB Jamaal Charles limited in OTAs

Source: KCChiefs.com - B.J. Kissel

Kansas City Chiefs RB Jamaal Charles (knee) will be limited in organized team activities, according to head coach Andy Reid.

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They'll be cautious with him to make sure he's OK to go for the season and we see him as a borderline RB1/RB2 this year. After turning 30, we hope he can regain the form that had him lighting up fantasy leagues last season, but we aren't 100% sure it can happen. He remains a very productive and talented back.

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PHI - WR Jordan Matthews has rapport with Bradford

Source: The Philadelphia Inquirer - Zach Berman

Philadelphia Eagles WR Jordan Matthews flew to Oklahoma in March to work with QB Sam Bradford, and Matthews is OK with Bradford's trade request earlier in the offseason. 'If I'm cool with it, then everybody should be cool with it,' Matthews said. 'Look, if I want to be here, and I'm happy with it, and we can go out there and just compete, that's all I want to focus on. That's all that matters.'

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Matthews led the team in targets (128), yards (997) and touchdowns (8) with Bradford under center, so we're sure he's happy to have him back. We think he could be a solid WR2 this year.

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MIA - No concern with Laremy Tunsil

Source: The Miami Herald - Barry Jackson

Miami Dolphins OT Laremy Tunsil (ankle) is full-go for offseason activities despite a recent report that he has a pre-arthritic ankle condition. Executive vice president of football operations Mike Tannenbaum said the Dolphins never had a concern about the rookie's ankle.

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Miami can sigh in relief. Tunsil is going to be a big upgrade for this line if he can keep his off-field chaos under control. That's good for Jay Ajayi, Ryan Tannehill and Jarvis Landry.

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CAR - QB Cam Newton can still improve

Source: NFL.com - Marc Sessler

Carolina Panthers QB Cam Newton still has an awful lot of room to grow, in the words of head coach Ron Rivera. 'As he continues to learn and understand more and more about offensive and defensive plays, his decision-making is going to be even better,' Rivera said. 'As long as he continues to stay healthy and keep getting better physically and work on his base fundamentals, I think the young man is going to get better.'

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The eight best player in Pro Football Focus' 101 Top Players list, Newton is still an unfinished product. His collapse near the end of the Super Bowl - as well as his press conference afterwards - show that. Still, he won a lot of Fantasy Championships last season and we expect him to continue to get better and better. He's a lock as a QB1 and could go as high as late first round in fantasy drafts.

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DAL - WR Terrance Williams not worried

Source: ESPNDallas.com - Todd Archer
Dallas Cowboys WR Terrance Williams is in the final year of his rookie contract, but he's focused on the upcoming season, not a possible extension or new team. 'Now, I'm just ready to be quiet and work and let my play speak for [itself],' Williams said. 'You can always talk [about] what you're going to do and then if it doesn't go as planned, it's like a slap to your face. So I'm just ready to work and just show my play.'

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We don't expect a ton from Williams if Dez Bryant is healthy, and it seems like his 52 catches for 840 yards could be his high water mark in Dallas - one we don't expect him to surpass in 2016. Consider him a WR6 or so this year.
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Source: footballguys.com

**BarkingToad** · 05-21-16, 03:13 AM

Originally posted by LT Profits

Are you OK buddy?

He's still trying to find the right dosage for his medication.

**LT Profits** · 05-21-16, 07:54 AM

Saturday Update

MIA - RB Jay Ajayi pulling away from RBs Source: Sun-Sentinel - Omar Kelly

Miami Dolphins RB Jay Ajayi has been performing well during workouts this offseason and has separated himself from the other running backs on the roster, according head coach Adam Gase. 'He's been one of those guys he's been here every day. He's done everything right. You can tell he's looking to improve. He doesn't say much, just keeps working,' Gase said. 'The rest of that group has done a good job to try and keep up with him, but obviously he's kind of separated himself from that group as far as the consistency of what he does day in and day out.'

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Ajayi still has the risk of Arian Foster or another veteran back sharing work with him, and the team is likely to give third-round pick Kenyan Drake everything he can handle. He has upside if he can get the lion's share of touches, and unlike Matt Jones or Jeremy Langford, he hasn't shown limited upside when given a bigger opportunity.

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CHI - Chicago to use committee backfield

Source: Chicago Tribune - Rich Campbell

Chicago Bears RB Jeremy Langford will battle with RBs Jordan Howard, Ka'Deem Carey and Jacquizz Rodgers for touches in a crowded backfield during offseason workouts. Head coach John Fox is intent on running with a committee approach after the departure of RB Matt Forte. Langford has a leg up after scoring seven touchdowns in his rookie season. However, he had only 3.6 yards per carry and 1.13 yards after contact, which ranked second to last out of 47 players with 100 carries, according to ESPN Stats and Information. Langford must also work on improving his hands after struggling with drops in 2015. Howard's bruising style appeals to the team as a complement to Langford's speed. Carey is the only back that wasn't acquired by the current coaching staff, and he's being pushed to become more versatile and to play better on third downs. Rodgers it the veteran and could be trusted more than any other rusher on third downs early in the year.

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Langford is the most likely to have the most touches, but this approach will make week-to-week predictability a mess. None of the three backs are particularly talented and all have different strengths. Even with Langford's possible volume, he's a risky pick compared to backs in his ADP range like Giovani Bernard and Matt Jones.

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NE - RB Arian Foster an option for Patriots?

Source: BleacherReport.com - Jason Cole

Free-agent RB Arian Foster (Texans) has received preliminary interest from the New England Patriots, according to a source.

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We think Foster winds up in the AFC East...with the Dolphins. It makes sense that the Patriots would have interest, even with Dion Lewis and LeGarrette Blount in the fold. There are rumblings about a small handful of teams, including the Patriots, Dolphins and Broncos having interest in the veteran back.

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TB - QB Jameis Winston can improve

Source: Tampa Bay Times - Rick Stroud

Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Jameis Winston can improve on his technique and accuracy because he completed only 58.3% of his passes in 2015, according to quarterback coach Mike Bajakian.

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We love Winston and know that of course he can improve. His pass-placement is an issue as Winston needs to better lead his receivers to improve yards after the catch. We'll see if Winston can take strides to being a better QB in his sophomore season with the Bucs.

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TB - OC had questions about QB Jameis Winston

Source: Tampa Bay Times - Rick Stroud

Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Todd Monken said he was not a big fan of QB Jameis Winston when he entered the NFL, but his opinion has changed after working with him this offseason. Monken said the passing game needs to improve under Winston because it was inconsistent in 2015. 'I think from the outside you would've looked at it with all the things that were publicized in the past about him and who he is. I was dead wrong. He wants to win as much as we do. He's a competitive joker, man, he's smart, he's intelligent ... you can win a lot of games with guys like that,' Monken said.

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Winston has high football character and IQ and he clearly already has the Bucs behind him, even down to the coaches. He should take a step forward in his second year if his receivers and tight ends can stay healthy, and he has also been reunited with his college kicker Roberto Aguayo after vouching for him before the Bucs traded back up into the second round to get him.

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CLE - QB Josh McCown performing well

Source: ESPN.com - Pat McManamon

Cleveland Browns QB Josh McCown has performed well during organized team activities this week and appears to have a good grasp on the new offense.

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Robert Griffin III won't be handed the starting job. McCown was actually solid as a streaming quarterback last year, and if he wins out to start Week 1, he will be a viable fantasy option in the season opener at Philadelphia.

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NYJ - NY has high hopes for Hackenberg

Source: New York Daily News - Manish Mehta

New York Jets director of player personnel Brian Heimerdinger said the Jets have high hopes for QB Christian Hackenberg, their second-round draft pick. Heimerdinger also said the addition of Hackenberg doesn't reflect poorly on QB Bryce Petty.

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If the Jets do sign Ryan Fitzpatrick, one of Bryce Petty and Geno Smith will likely get released unless the team is ready to carry four quarterbacks. Even though this comment isn't supposed to reflect on Petty, it's hard to imagine the team turning to him as the backup, so this depth chart is far from settled.

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DEN - Devontae Booker out for OTAs

Source: 9News.com - Mike Klis

Denver Broncos RB Devontae Booker (knee) will not participate in the first round of OTAs that begins Tuesday, May 24, as he continues to recover from a torn meniscus, but he is expected to be ready before the start of the season.

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Booker is a three-down-back-in-waiting for the Broncos. They are going to give C.J. Anderson the largest workload he can handle after paying him a $5 million bonus earlier this year. The rookie is going to have to wait his turn behind Anderson. We like Booker because of his determination, power and the fact he's a fantastic receiver out of the backfield. Any fantasy owner who adds Anderson should be adding Booker as a must-handcuff player.

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BUF - No deals for WR Andre Roberts, ILB Jamari Lattimore

Source: BuffaloBills.com - Chris Brown

Free-agent WR Andre Roberts (Redskins) and LB Jamari Lattimore (Jets) met with the Buffalo Bills earlier this week, but both players left the visits without a contract.

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The Bills are kicking the tires on Roberts as they will be missing WR Sammy Watkins until the start of the regular season. They could always end up signing Roberts at some time before training camp if they need an extra body at the position. Roberts did nothing during his time with Washington, but there should be at least a few teams interested in the veteran receiver.

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DAL - Jaylon Smith will be used in middle

Source: ESPNDallas.com - Todd Archer

Dallas Cowboys LB Jaylon Smith (knee) will be used at middle linebacker when he is healthy enough to play.

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Smith has massive upside in IDP leagues and is deserving of a risk/reward pick in the second round of rookie drafts. Rolando McClain is slated to man the middle this year.

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MIA - Mike Pouncey says he's 100%

Source: The Miami Herald - Adam H. Beasley

Miami Dolphins C Mike Pouncey (hip) said he is 100% after surgery on his hip this offseason.

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The Dolphins offense hasn't clicked, and Pouncey has missed at least two games in each of the last three seasons. Hopefully this surgery can help him stay on the field and anchor the offensive line that will now include one of the best prospects in years, Ole Miss's Laremy Tunsil.

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SEA - WR Doug Baldwin talks could open soon

Source: The Seattle Times - Bob Condotta

Seattle Seahawks WR Doug Baldwin is expected to have contract talks begin with the team in the near future.

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Baldwin will be a free agent in 2017. He is turning 28 during the season this year and will be paid four million dollars, a relative bargain. Baldwin doesn't project as a #1 elsewhere and probably would have his fantasy value preserved the best by staying in Seattle despite their low volume pass offense because he and Russell Wilson clearly have a good thing going in the red zone.

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Source: footballguys.com

**Eddy Munny** · 05-21-16, 11:09 AM

Stop spamming the board, LT Profits aka MT Wallets. I will not warn you again.

**LT Profits** · 05-22-16, 07:10 AM

Sunday Update

MIN - Laquon Treadwell to be 'big' for MIN Source: Vikings.com - Eric Smith

Minnesota Vikings WR Laquon Treadwell has made a positive on-field impression on his new team thus far, according to QB Teddy Bridgewater.

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Treadwell certainly has star potential in the NFL. The offense is geared towards running the ball as much as possible with Adrian Peterson. That could keep Treadwell's numbers from reaching their full potential in 2016. We like the rookie as a WR4 for fantasy owners this season.

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CIN - Tyler Boyd likely to open season in slot

Source: The Cincinnati Enquirer - Jim Owczarski

Cincinnati Bengals WR Tyler Boyd will get chance to earn immediate playing time, according to new offensive coordinator Ken Zampese.

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The Bengals have A.J. Green and (for now) Brandon LaFell on the outside at WR. LaFell will likely end up disappointing them (like he does at every stop), so Boyd's role may grow from a WR3 to a WR2 for the team. For fantasy purposes, think of the rookie as a WR6 with upside.

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NE - RB Arian Foster doesn't visit Patriots

Source: ESPNBoston.com - Mike Reiss

Free-agent RB Arian Foster (Texans) did not visit the New England Patriots during his recent trip to Boston.

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Reports indicate the Patriots have interest...at least preliminary interest...in the veteran back. Foster may be able to pass a physical in a week or two, so his market may heat up. There have already been a small handful of teams reach out to Foster this offseason.

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BUF - Better year for TE Charles Clay?

Source: The Buffalo News - Vic Carucci

Buffalo Bills TE Charles Clay is expected to be more productive in his second season with the Bills, according to offensive coordinator Greg Roman. More looks his way and better health are considered to be two key factors in what Buffalo hopes to be a better season for Clay.

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Fantasy owners need to take note here. Clay is currently going undrafted in 12-team PPR leagues, and he should certainly be able to outperform expectations after a disappointing year in 2015. Back with the Dolphins in 2013, Clay was the 7th-best fantasy TE with 69 catches, 759 yards and six touchdowns. The injury to Sammy Watkins, and the questionable talent behind Watkins at the WR position, could force Clay to get more than the 51 receptions he had last year.

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BUF - WR Robert Woods looking good

Source: BuffaloBills.com - Chris Brown

Buffalo Bills WR Robert Woods has looked explosive during offseason workouts after dealing with injuries in 2015, according to QB Tyrod Taylor.

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Woods has natural/physical talent, but he's never been able to put it all together as a pro. In this run-first offense, we just don't see a lot of fantasy production for Woods in 2016.

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DEN - Paxton Lynch may sign soon

Source: FOXSports.com - Alex Marvez

Denver Broncos QB Paxton Lynch has not signed his rookie contract at this point, but agent Leigh Steinberg said he plans to reach an agreement with the Broncos quickly.

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Rookie holdouts are a thing of the past. Ever since the rookie wage scale was introduced, teams just slot their rookie salaries based on what the players before and the players behind got. Lynch was the 26th-overall pick, but he will have a bit of a QB premium price. Either way, he's going to give the Broncos a value for five years at the position...especially if he's the franchise QB they think he is.

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DEN - Devontae Booker gunning for starting job

Source: 9News.com - Mike Klis

Denver Broncos RB Devontae Booker said he wants to become one of the best running backs in franchise history, and he plans to 'take someone's job' this year.

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We love Booker's confidence, but there's no way he takes someone's job...unless that someone (starter C.J. Anderson) gets hurt. Some are trying to paint a picture of RBBC in Denver in 2016. The Broncos are painting a different picture..with their checkbook. Anderson got a $5 million bonus earlier this year, and they're going to feed him the rock as much as possible. Booker is talented, but he's a three-down-back-in-waiting with the Broncos.

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Source: footballguys.com