NFL Player News - Pro Bowl Week

**Otters27** · 01-23-17, 07:42 AM

2 Weeks will be fine for Julio Jones. These injuries should be a non factor unless he reinjures them in the Superbowl early.

**LT Profits** · 01-24-17, 10:44 AM

Tuesday Update

PIT - RB Karlos Williams signs future deal with PIT

Source: Tampa Bay Times - Greg Auman

Free-agent RB Karlos Williams (Steelers) signed a Reserve/Future contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Terms of the contract were not disclosed.

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Dynasty owners need to keep tabs here. DeAngelo Williams is a free agent in 2017, and he may not be back with the Steelers. Le'Veon Bell is also set to hit the open market, but we think Pittsburgh finds a way to keep him around (franchise tag or long-term deal). Williams has seen his career go off track due to weight problems and a suspension (that still has four games left), but he's still a talented runner when things are aligned. We'll see if he can do anything with this chance the Steelers are giving him.

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CLE - WR Terrelle Pryor may receive franchise tag

Source: CBSSports.com - Jason La Canfora

Cleveland Browns impending free-agent WR Terrelle Pryor likely will receive the franchise tag this offseason after the Browns were able to sign LB Jamie Collins to a contract extension.

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The Browns don't have to do that, but they will if they can't come to a long-term agreement with Pryor. Even with Collins signed to a deal that makes him the highest-paid ILB in the NFL, the Browns still have plenty of cap space. Pryor wants to stay, and the Browns would be wise to keep him. That sounds like they can come together on a price.

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ATL - QB Matt Ryan the best without pressure

Source: NBC Sports - Chris Collinsworth

Atlanta Falcons QB Matt Ryan's passer rating is 131.1 when he's in a clean pocket. That's the best rating in the NFL by more than 10 points.

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Ryan put up great numbers this year, but perhaps most impressive is that only 12.4 percent of his passes were considered "off target." That mark ranks second in the league, only behind Drew Brees (10.0 percent).

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PIT - TE Ladarius Green not retiring

Source: ESPN.com - Jeremy Fowler

Pittsburgh Steelers TE Ladarius Green (concussion) would like to return to the Steelers next season. He is not considering retirement despite suffering multiple concussions with multiple teams. 'Frustrating season, but everybody has one,' Green said. 'I hope it's the only one I have. I'm going to go train as soon as I get home, and hopefully next season works out a lot better.'

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Green was limited to only six games in his first season with the Steelers. An incredible receiving weapon when healthy, Green battled with this concussion since he suffered the injury in Week 15. He's under contract through 2019, and Green has a cap number of $5 million in 2017.
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SF - Kyle Shanahan, 49ers to meet Saturday?

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

Atlanta Falcons head coach Dan Quinn said offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan will be free to meet with the San Francisco 49ers Saturday, Jan. 28.

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This meeting has to be a formality only. Shanahan is the best coaching prospect on the market...even before the other hirings across the league. The 49ers need him in a bad way, and the way Shanahan has crafted the Falcons offense it makes for an exciting future if (when) the 49ers make him their next head coach.

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GB - TE Jared Cook big in playoffs

Source: Packers.com - Wes Hodkiewicz

Green Bay Packers impending free-agent TE Jared Cook totaled 18 catches for 229 yards and two touchdowns in Green Bay's three playoff games this season. Cook had not made it to the postseason in his seven-year career and was content with his first season as a Packer. 'I'm just happy to be where I am,' Cook said. 'I'm happy to finally be able to get somewhere I've been searching on a journey. Not the ultimate goal, but you take the good with the bad.'

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Cook's career can always be summed up with the phrase "what might have been." Even this year, Cook had 30 catches for 377 yards but missed six games with a high-ankle sprain. He's been maddeningly inconsistent his entire pro career, and that may not change even if the Packers decide to bring him back in 2017.

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WAS - Jim Tomsula hired to Redskins staff

Source: The Washington Post - Master Tesfatsion

Former San Francisco 49ers head coach Jim Tomsula was hired by the Washington Redskins as defensive line coach Monday, Jan. 23.

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The head coach for the 49ers in 2015, Tomsula sat back and took some time off in 2016 (and still got paid). He failed as a head coach, but Tomsula is one of the most respected defensive line coaches in the league and should thrive back at his natural spot.

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WAS - Matt Cavanaugh promoted to OC

Source: Redskins.com

Washington Redskins quarterbacks coach Matt Cavanaugh was promoted to offensive coordinator Monday, Jan. 23.

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With Sean McVay moving on to Los Angeles (Rams) to be the youngest head coach in the NFL, Washington makes a good move by promoting Cavanaugh. He was last an offensive coordinator in the NFL with the Ravens from 1999-2004.

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PIT - Le'Veon Bell had pre-existing injury

Source: The Associated Press - Barry Wilner

Updating an earlier report, Pittsburgh Steelers RB Le'Veon Bell (groin) had an injured groin before the AFC Championship game Sunday, Jan. 22. Bell said he had been managing the ailment, but he knew during warmups that he wasn't close to 100 percent.

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He left the game and returned for one play, but he knew his day was done afterwards. 'I saw the seam and couldn't hit it,' Bell said. 'It was like I was running 50 percent out there. At that point, I knew I couldn't go. I was holding the team back.'

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Source: footballguys.com

**mr. leisure** · 01-25-17, 12:07 AM

Matt Ryan is going to make a boatload of money after this season .

**LT Profits** · 01-25-17, 08:05 AM

Wednesday Update

ATL - WR Julio Jones in rare postseason company

Source: ESPN Stats and Information

Atlanta Falcons WR Julio Jones became one of three players in NFL history to have multiple postseason games with at least 180 receiving yards following his performance in the NFC Championship Game against the Green Bay Packers. The other two are retired WRs Jerry Rice and Fred Biletnikoff.

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Like those two, Jones should be in the Pro Football Hall of Fame someday. The Patriots should scheme to take Jones away, so expecting 180 plus in the Super Bowl may not be realistic.

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WAS - QB Kirk Cousins should return

Source: The Washington Post - Mike Jones

Washington Redskins QB Kirk Cousins is expected to return to the Redskins, according to head coach Jay Gruden. Cousins will be on the free-agent market this offseason.

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Cousins is set to be on the open market, but we think Washington finds a way to keep him around. That may be through placing the franchise tag on him for the second year in a row. They could always come to an agreement on a new long-term contract as well. There's also the buzz building about the 49ers making a run at Cousins -- even if he's tagged -- if (when?) Kyle Shanahan becomes their new head coach.

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OAK - QB Derek Carr extension important to Oakland

Source: CSNBayArea.com - Scott Bair

Oakland Raiders QB Derek Carr could be in negotiations for a contract extension in the near future, according to general manager Reggie McKenzie. Carr is heading into a contract year in 2017.

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Carr was a second-round pick, so there is no fifth-year option for one of the best young passers in the NFL. He was in the discussion for NFL MVP before a finger injury held him back and a broken leg ended his season. The Raiders have over $46 million in cap space for 2017, so they've got more than enough money to get him a deal that likely pays him over $20 million annually.

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DAL - Zack Martin's option will be exercised

Source: The Dallas Morning News - Brandon George

Dallas Cowboys OG Zack Martin's fifth-year option will be exercised, according to executive vice president Stephen Jones. 'A big priority for us is to keep Zack around,' Jones said.

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Martin is one of the best in the game, so the Cowboys should most certainly exercise his fifth-year option. Next, the two sides need to work in 2017 to get Martin a new long-term deal.

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DAL - Dallas wants to re-sign receivers

Source: The Dallas Morning News - Brandon George

Dallas Cowboys impending free-agent WRs Terrance Williams and Brice Butler will hopefully be re-signed this offseason, according to executive vice president Stephen Jones.

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Butler has the speed to take off the top of the defense, and they should be able to keep him around at a good price. Williams perhaps has more potential, and maybe a new start somewhere else would do him some good. If he's happy with his no.2 role behind Dez Bryant, then Williams could stick with Dallas.

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PIT - RB Karlos Williams' suspension almost done

Source: ESPN.com - Jeremy Fowler

Pittsburgh Steelers RB Karlos Williams has one game remaining on his 10-game suspension.

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It was originally speculated that Williams had four games remaining. This is great news for Williams if he can get in shape, stay in shape and produce on the field. Williams will be competing for a reserve role with the Steelers this year. He will be eligible to return for Week 2 of the 2017 regular season.

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NFL - Two teams meet with Taywan Taylor

Source: The Baltimore Times - Turron Davenport

Western Kentucky WR Taywan Taylor met with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Oakland Raiders during Senior Bowl festivities Monday, Jan. 23.

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Over the last two seasons, Taylor has over 3,000 yards receiving and 33 receiving touchdowns. Prior to the 2016 season, Chase Goodbread (of NFL.com) ranked Taylor as one of the 16 most freakish athletes in college football. He's considered a third- or fourth-round prospect in the 2017 NFL draft.

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NE - QB Jimmy Garoppolo may not fetch first-rounder?

Source: MMQB - Andrew Brandt

New England Patriots QB Jimmy Garoppolo is expected to a hot name on the trade market this offseason, but the MMQB's Andrew Brandt believes it is 'delusional' to think another team will hand over a first-round pick for the backup signal-caller.

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Garoppolo was a second-round pick for the Patriots in 2014, and he may not be able to draw a higher pick from any team interested in trading for him. There are a few backup QBs around the league that have some trade appeal, but these type of deals don't materialize often. If the Pats can't find a good price for Garoppolo, he could play out the last year of his rookie contract in 2017. They would get a premium compensatory pick when Garoppolo left (likely with a large contract) in 2018 free agency.

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PIT - Pittsburgh hopeful about WR Martavis Bryant

Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette - Ed Bouchette

Suspended Pittsburgh Steelers WR Martavis Bryant applied for reinstatement early this month, but head coach Mike Tomlin said while he is 'hopeful', he is also in 'wait-and-see mode' in regards to his potential return to the team.

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Getting Bryant back would greatly help the Steelers offense. When healthy and not suspended, Bryant is a dangerous weapon who can make field-flipping plays early and often. The league will examine his current situation and likely make a decision before the start of the 2017 season. He could even be back for OTAs or minicamp this spring.

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PIT - QB Ben Roethlisberger uncertain about future

Source: 93.7 The Fan

Pittsburgh Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger hinted retirement was an option when he joined The Cook and Poni Show on 93.7 The Fan on Tuesday, Jan. 24.

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Calm down Steelers fans, this isn't the first time Roethlisberger has considered retirement according to head coach Mike Tomlin. He'll likely come back for his age-35 season. Roethlisberger would have to return a large portion of his signing bonus if he did retire. He's on the books for $18.2 million in 2017, and there's $18.6 million remaining in dead money.

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MIA - WR Jarvis Landry entering contract year
Source: Palm Beach Post - Jason Lieser

Miami Dolphins WR Jarvis Landry is entering the final year of his rookie contract in 2017, and he's set to earn $1.1 million.

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A second-round pick in that amazing 2014 WR draft class, Landry has 289 catches in three seasons. Expect the Dolphins to find a way to sign Landry to a new long-term contract so he doesn't hit the open market.

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Source: footballguys.com

**Otters27** · 01-26-17, 07:38 AM

I have not watched the pro Bowl in years. Might turn it to look at the different helmets on the field

**LT Profits** · 01-26-17, 07:52 AM

Originally posted by Otters27

I have not watched the pro Bowl in years. Might turn it to look at the different helmets on the field

I wish they would just abolish it, but that will not happen. At least other leagues play their All-Star games mid-season, NFL is only one that has it so close to Super Bowl, thus sparking ZERO interest.

**LT Profits** · 01-26-17, 01:41 PM

Thursday Update

ATL - WR Julio Jones to rest this week

Source: NFL.com - Kevin Patra

Atlanta Falcons WR Julio Jones (toe) will not participate in practice this week.

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Jones will rest this week, and we're sure he's going to be somewhat limited next week as well. The Falcons need him to be healthy (ish) for a huge matchup against the Patriots in the Super Bowl.

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NE - TE Martellus Bennett limited

Source: Patriots.com

New England Patriots TE Martellus Bennett (knee) was limited during practice Wednesday, Jan. 25.

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Bennett has been clearly slowed by injury for some time. We're sure the Pats will limit his participation so he can be as close to full strength as possible for the Super Bowl.

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NE - WR Malcolm Mitchell listed as limited

Source: Patriots.com

New England Patriots WR Malcolm Mitchell (knee) was limited during practice Wednesday, Jan. 25.

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Mitchell was able to play against the Steelers in the AFC Championship Game. He was targeted four times but only came down with one catch for five yards.

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NE - Limited practice for WR Chris Hogan

Source: Patriots.com

New England Patriots WR Chris Hogan (thigh) was limited during practice Wednesday, Jan. 25.

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Hogan set the NFL record for the most receiving yards by an undrafted player in a playoff game. He was a monster against the Steelers and their "don't cover that guy" defense. Hogan snared nine passes for 180 yards and two touchdowns. We'll see if Hogan is a big part of the gameplan against the Falcons in the Super Bowl.

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TB - RB Doug Martin on his way out?

Source: Tampa Bay Times - Rick Stroud
Tampa Bay Buccaneers RB Doug Martin is not part of the short- or long-term plans of the Buccaneers, in the opinion of Rick Stroud, of the Tampa Bay Times. Martin signed a five-year, $33.75 million contract, with $15 million guaranteed, in March of 2016, but that guaranteed money is voided because of his four-game suspension after testing positive for Adderall.
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The writing has been on the wall with Martin. The team is likely to move on and add a running back via the 2017 NFL draft. It's a great class of running backs, and with the 19th-overall pick they might be willing to take a back like Dalvin Cook (Florida State) if he's still on the board.
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PHI - RB Ryan Mathews likely gone

Source: PhillyVoice.com - Jimmy Kempski

Philadelphia Eagles RB Ryan Mathews is expected to be released in the offseason, in the opinion of PhillyVoice.com's Jimmy Kempski.

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No surprise here. Mathews is coming off a serious neck injury (herniated disk) he suffered near the end of the regular season. If the team releases him, they'll clear $4 million in cap space. It's a no-brainer to let him go.
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WAS - WAS president says QB Kirk Cousins will stay

Source: ESPN.com - John Keim

Washington Redskins QB Kirk Cousins will return in 2017, according to team president Bruce Allen. When asked, on a scale of 1-to-10, the likelihood of Cousins being back with the club next season, Allen said he'd put it as a '10.' He also added, 'Yeah, Kirk is our quarterback. He's played well the last two years. I know there's other speculation, but it doesn't come from the Redskins.'

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Cousins is set to hit the open market, but we don't think he reaches that point. Washington will either move to place the franchise tag on him for the second year in a row, or they will get a long-term deal done. There have been rumblings about the 49ers (perhaps led by Kyle Shanahan) making a run at Cousins, but all that talk might be a bit premature.
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MIA - Still no decision on QB Ryan Tannehill's knee

Source: The Miami Herald - Adam H. Beasley

Miami Dolphins general manager Mike Tannenbaum said the team still has not decided if QB Ryan Tannehill (knee) will need to undergo knee surgery this offseason.

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This puts Tannehill's status for offseason workouts up in the air. If surgery is the route they go with his knee injury, Tannehill should be able to resume practicing around the time training camp kicks off in early August.

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BUF - QB Tyrod Taylor's surgery a non-factor for GM

Source: The Buffalo News - Vic Carucci
Buffalo Bills QB Tyrod Taylor (groin) is recovering from groin surgery, but general manager Doug Whaley will not use that as a factor in determining the quarterback's future with the Bills.
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It will be interesting to see if the Bills keep Taylor around for 2017. The Bills hired Rick Dennison as their new offensive coordinator, and he worked with Taylor back when both were with the Ravens in 2014. Buffalo has until March 11 to pick up Taylor's contract option, which has an injury guarantee for $27.5 million. Taylor is said to be recovering on schedule.
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NO - QB Drew Brees contract not an issue

Source: The New Orleans Times-Picayune - Josh Katzenstein

New Orleans Saints QB Drew Brees' contract is not an issue, according to Saints general manager Mickey Loomis. Brees is entering the final year of his contract after signing a one-year extension leading up to the 2016 NFL season. Loomis praised Brees' high level of play and said he hasn't yet thought about why approaching Brees' contract this year will be different than last year.

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Brees has a $19 million cap number in 2017, and there's a whopping $37 million left in dead money. The Saints have a lot of improvements to make, and they currently have around $29.5 million in cap space for 2017. That's plenty of money for them to be active in the free agent market.

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WAS - WR Josh Doctson not fully cleared

Source: The Washington Post - Mike Jones

Washington Redskins WR Josh Doctson (Achilles') has yet to be cleared to run full without restrictions, according to head coach Jay Gruden.

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Doctson was the team's first-round pick in 2016, but he was limited to only two games during his rookie season. They'll likely be losing both Pierre Garcon and DeSean Jackson in free agency this offseason, so Doctson will be in for a large role in 2017.
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15. PHI - QB Carson Wentz to work with acclaimed QB guru

Source: The Philadelphia Inquirer - Jeff McLane

Philadelphia Eagles QB Carson Wentz will train with quarterback guru Adam Dedeaux this offseason, according to his agent Ryan Tollner.

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It's a wise move by Wentz. Dedeaux is a former minor league pitcher who is the motion mechanics instructor at 3DQB. Wentz saw a decline in his play over the course of the season, and many of his flaws began with bad habits or incorrect mechanics. We're hoping to see an improvement from Wentz in 2017.

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Source: footballguys.com

**mr. leisure** · 01-26-17, 10:23 PM

Originally posted by Otters27

I have not watched the pro Bowl in years. Might turn it to look at the different helmets on the field

Yep , totally unwatchable

**LT Profits** · 01-27-17, 08:14 AM

Friday Update

ATL - WR Julio Jones feels good

Source: ESPN.com - Vaughn McClure

Atlanta Falcons WR Julio Jones (toe) said his injured toe is feeling good.

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Jones is a beast and should be ready to go against the Patriots in Super Bowl LI. With his size and speed, Jones will be a handful for the secondary.

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WAS - QB Kirk Cousins willing to play under tag

Source: ESPN.com - James Walker

Washington Redskins impending free-agent QB Kirk Cousins said he would be willing to play under the franchise tag if the Redskins place it on him for the second straight year.

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Cousins isn't a top tier quarterback by any means, but he's solid and Washington is going to find a way to keep him. Last year they gambled he would plateau a little and tagged him, but he improved which means he will cost more money. It's unlikely they do that again, though a short term use so they can buy time to negotiate makes sense.

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SEA - WR Doug Baldwin more productive at home

Source: ESPN.com

Seattle Seahawks WR Doug Baldwin caught 56 passes for 751 yards and four touchdowns at home this season. He caught 38 passes for 377 yards and three touchdowns on the road.

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Baldwin had a solid season, but like the rest of the Seahawks offense he saw a massive dip in production on the road. Whether it's offensive line issues, noise problems or any number of things, it is a bit of a concern. We will be monitoring the offense closely this offseason.

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GB - Coach hopes RB Eddie Lacy re-signs

Source: Packers.com

Green Bay Packers head coach Mike McCarthy said he hopes impending free-agent RB Eddie Lacy re-signs with the Packers this offseason.

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He and Ty Montgomery謡ho will be remaining in the backfield耀hould be a solid one-two punch for the Packers next year. They desperately missed the run game this season, so Lacy could get a lot of use next year.

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GB - WR Ty Montgomery staying at RB

Source: Green Bay Press-Gazette - Ryan Wood

Green Bay Packers RB Ty Montgomery will remain at running back in 2017, according to head coach Mike McCarthy.

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The question is whether he will be joined by Eddie Lacy, who is a free agent this offseason. While it seems a no-brainer to bring him back, the team was very unhappy with his weight and conditioning and could decide to add to the backfield in the draft or free agency.

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MIA - WR Kenny Stills to meet with Dolphins

Source: The Miami Herald - Armando Salguero

Miami Dolphins impending free-agent WR Kenny Stills will meet with the team at the Senior Bowl.

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Stills had a solid season under head coach Adam Gase, with a career high in touchdowns (9) despite some issues under center and on the offensive line. He isn't worth a ton of money, but the Dolphins have to be pretty happy with his overall production.

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PHI - No decline in Jason Kelce

Source: The Philadelphia Inquirer - Zach Berman

Philadelphia Eagles C Jason Kelce hasn't declined, according to executive vice president Howie Roseman. Kelce could be on the roster bubble next season with a $6.2 million cap number.

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Kelce didn't have his best year, though there were other issues on the offensive line as well and a rookie quarterback to tend to. The money is an issue, though, and we could see the contract renegotiated.

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DEN - WR Kendall Wright could interest Denver

Source: The Denver Post - Cameron Wolfe

Impending free-agent Kendall Wright 'could be a good pick-up at a cheap price,' according to the Denver Post's Cameron Wolfe.

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He has the talent to be more than depth at the position and past Emmanuel Sanders and Demaryius Thomas, the Broncos don't have much. With his upside and the price tag on the other two, the Broncos could grab him with the thought he might turn into a replacement for one of them. He has a lot of work to do, though.

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CIN - Marvin Lewis hoping for an extension

Source: The Cincinnati Enquirer - Jim Owczarski

Cincinnati Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis is entering the final season of his contract and coming off a 6-9-1 campaign but hopeful he and team owner Mike Brown can come to some kind of agreement on an extension during the off-season.

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The Bengals have stuck with Lewis for two reasons揺e was winning and he was relatively cheap. The former is a far more important point, and worth noting. Lewis has consistently lost good coordinators to head coaching opportunities and that was bound to catch up. We think they give him some more time.

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MIN - WR Cordarrelle Patterson enjoyed new offense

Source: NFL.com - Conor Orr

Impending free-agent WR Cordarrelle Patterson told NFL.com's Conor Orr that he liked the way the offense evolved in the second half of the season under Minnesota Vikings offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur. Patterson saw 46 targets over the nine games Shurmur was calling the plays as opposed to 24 targets for the first seven contests under former offensive coordinator Norv Turner.

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This comes as no surprise as Norv Turner seemed to have no idea what to do with Patterson, who saw a lot more use under Shurmur. We still think Patterson is leaving a lot on the table and needs to step up both his preparation and his concentration. He's got more talent than he has shown, and some of that shortfall is on him.
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MIA - RB Jay Ajayi has room to grow

Source: Palm Beach Post - Joe Schad

Miami Dolphins RB Jay Ajayi has 'just scratch the surface' of his potential, according to a team source.

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Consistency will be key for Ajayi. Half of his 1,272 yards came in three 200 yard outings, and from a production standpoint, too many of his games were under 60 yards. Clearly he has a lot of talent, and we know the injuries along the offensive line hurt him, but he needs to show he can pile up yards each week before we can rely on him in fantasy.

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Source: footballguys.com

**Cross** · 01-27-17, 05:05 PM

Glad to have a break from football.

**Otters27** · 01-28-17, 03:38 AM

Originally posted by LT Profits

I wish they would just abolish it, but that will not happen. At least other leagues play their All-Star games mid-season, NFL is only one that has it so close to Super Bowl, thus sparking ZERO interest.

They could try to play it pre season. Get people fired up for football. Players union would not go for it though

**LT Profits** · 01-28-17, 07:19 AM

Originally posted by Otters27

They could try to play it pre season. Get people fired up for football. Players union would not go for it though

Or they could take away the off week between the Championship Games and the Super Bowl, push the first three playoff rounds back a week and add a universal bye on Week 9 or Week 10 of the regular season to play Pro Bowl then.

**LT Profits** · 01-28-17, 07:41 AM

Saturday Update

MIN - QB Teddy Bridgewater likely to miss 2017 season

Source: BleacherReport.com - Jason Cole

Minnesota Vikings QB Teddy Bridgewater (knee) is expected to miss the entire 2017 season to continue his comeback from the torn ACL and dislocated knee he suffered during training camp last summer, according to a team source, which suggested the 'shortest recovery' time for a player with Bridgewater's injuries is 19 months.

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Good thing Sam Bradford is signed through 2017. Bridgewater's injury was severe, and it's going to take quite a bit of time for him to properly heal. We hope that one day he can be at full strength and develop on the potential he showed as a first-round pick in 2014. If he's back in 2018, the Vikings would have to exercise his fifth-year option for that season to insure he's under contract.

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ATL - WR Julio Jones gets in limited practice

Source: ESPN.com - Coley Harvey

Atlanta Falcons WR Julio Jones (toe) practiced in limited fashion Friday, Jan. 27. Earlier in the week, it had been reported Jones would not practice at all during the open week leading up to Super Bowl LI.

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We should see Jones limited all week leading up to the Super Bowl. The Falcons have a huge task at hand with the Patriots, and getting Jones fresh will greatly help their chances of victory.

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JAX - Scott Milanvich to be Jags QB coach

Source: Jaguars.com - John Oehser

The Jacksonville Jaguars have hired former Canadian Football League head coach Scott Milanovich as their quarterbacks coach.

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Milanovich has been coaching ever since 2003, and he's made stops with both NFL Europe and the CFL in various roles. His biggest challenge will be getting Blake Bortles back on track this offseason. Bortles needs to do a ton of mechanical work after regressing in 2016.

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PIT - WR Cobi Hamilton contract update

Source: Pittsburgh Tribune-Review - Joe Rutter

Updating a previous report, Pittsburgh Steelers exclusive rights free-agent WR Cobi Hamilton signed a one-year deal worth $540,000, according to a source.

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Hopefully the deal includes bonuses for not dropping touchdown passes in the AFC Championship Game.

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SF - Kyle Shanahan, SF now meeting Friday

Source: CSNBayArea.com - Matt Maiocco

Updating a previous item, Atlanta Falcons offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan will now meet with the San Francisco 49ers regarding their head coaching vacancy Friday, Jan. 27.

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Why wait around when you can get it done earlier? The 49ers are likely to hire Shanahan as their next coach, but they'll have to wait until after the Super Bowl to officially do so.

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DEN - Broncos name Geep Chryst their TEs coach

Source: The Denver Post - Nicki Jhabvala

The Denver Broncos hired Geep Chryst as their tight ends coach Friday, Jan. 27

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That gives the Broncos three coaches on that side of the ball who have been offensive coordinators. Mike McCoy will be their offensive coordinator, but quarterback coach Bill Musgrave ran the Raiders offense (2015, 2016) and Chryst ran the 49ers offense last year. The Broncos have A.J. Derby as their best tight end, but they're likely to draft one as well with this draft class being unusually strong at the position.

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DEN - QB Paxton Lynch to work with quarterback guru

Source: 9News.com - Mike Klis

Denver Broncos QB Paxton Lynch is expected to work with quarterback guru Charlie Taaffe again this offseason. The pair worked together last spring as well to help Lynch prepare for the 2016 NFL Draft.

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Taaffe's coaching career goes all the way back to 1973. Most recently, Taaffe was the offensive coordinator for Central Florida (2009-2014) and worked with Blake Bortles in college. After he resigned from that position, Taaffe accepted a job as a quarterbacks coach with a company called Quarterback Country. We'll see if Lynch can take great strides this offseason. The Broncos are counting on it as they've set things up for Lynch to win the starting job in 2017.

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NFL - O.J. Howard the complete package

Source: ESPN.com - Mike Triplett

Updating a previous report, Alabama TE O.J. Howard has been the most complete player at Senior Bowl practices, according to ESPN NFL analyst Matt Bowen. The 6-foot-5, 249-pound Howard could be taken in the top half of the first round of the 2017 NFL draft.

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Howard is a good blocker, and he's got the athleticism to create mismatches down the seam or out wide. He's a bit raw, and honestly he's a bit of an underachiever from his time in college at Alabama. Over the last two seasons, Howard has not scored a touchdown against a top-25 opponent....until the playoff games against Clemson. If his pro team can find a way to get more consistency from him, then Howard could be a fine pro in the NFL.

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MIN - WR Cordarrelle Patterson willing to play RB

Source: St. Paul Pioneer Press - Chad Graff

Minnesota Vikings impending free-agent WR Cordarrelle Patterson said he would love to play running back next season and just wants the ball in his hand as much as possible.

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There's early buzz going around now that Patterson may have more suitors on the open market than some people think. He enters free agency coming off a career high 52 receptions for 453 yards and two touchdowns. We'll see if his new team finds creative ways to get him the ball....but we don't predict a Ty Montgomery-like switch to RB in Patterson's future.

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BUF - Buffalo will look at QBs

Source: The Buffalo News - Vic Carucci

Buffalo Bills general manager Doug Whaley said the team will thoroughly study every quarterback in the 2017 NFL Draft and will likely head to camp with three or four quarterbacks.

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The future for Tyrod Taylor is up in the air right now. With new head coach Sean McDermott, the Bills would be wise to find their QB of the future. This isn't a great draft class for QB, but they might find a player that fits their needs. Expect them to overhaul the position this offseason. Cardale Jones remains as a developmental QB, but he's not ready to start no matter what happens to Taylor.

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Source: footballguys.com

**mr. leisure** · 01-28-17, 01:35 PM

MIN - QB Teddy Bridgewater likely to miss 2017 season

Source: BleacherReport.com - Jason Cole

Minnesota Vikings QB Teddy Bridgewater (knee) is expected to miss the entire 2017 season to continue his comeback from the torn ACL and dislocated knee he suffered during training camp last summer, according to a team source, which suggested the 'shortest recovery' time for a player with Bridgewater's injuries is 19 months.

Damn , 19 month recovery time .

**Otters27** · 01-29-17, 02:11 AM

Best thing for him is to come back strong. He has one more chance.he gets hurt again and that is it.

**LT Profits** · 01-29-17, 08:05 AM

Sunday Update

GB - RB Christine Michael set to be FA

Source: Spotrac.com

Green Bay Packers RB Christine Michael will be an unrestricted free agent Thursday, March 9, at 4 p.m. EST.

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He's one of the most naturally talented runners in the NFL, but Michael has bounced around the league as he's almost constantly disappointed at every stop. He may get some team to sign him off the open market, but he'll be no lock for a 53-man roster.

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WAS - QB Kirk Cousins happy with OC choice

Source: Redskins.com - Jake Kring-Schreifels

Washington Redskins impending free-agent QB Kirk Cousins said he is happy that the Redskins named Matt Cavanaugh as their offensive coordinator because he would not have to learn a new offense if he re-signs with the Redskins.

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The Cousins situation is one to watch this offseason. The team may franchise tag him again if they can't get a long-term contract done. There's also the speculation that a Kyle Shanahan led 49ers team could make a trade for the veteran passer. If he stays in Washington, expect a revamped group of receivers around him as both Pierre Garcon and DeSean Jackson should leave via free agency.

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GB - Green Bay hoping to re-sign TE Jared Cook

Source: NFL.com - Chris Wesseling

Green Bay Packers impending free-agent TE Jared Cook is one of the players who will be a priority during free agency, and the front office is expected to be more aggressive pursuing free agents this offseason.

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Cook was able to play up to his potential when healthy. He missed six games with a high-ankle sprain, but Cook was a big part of the Packers passing attack. His size/speed combination make him difficult to match up with.

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SF - WR Jeremy Kerley will be free agent

Source: Spotrac.com

San Francisco 49ers WR Jeremy Kerley will be an unrestricted free agent Thursday, March 9, at 4 p.m. EST.

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In just one year with the 49ers, Kerley finished with the most catches (64) and second-most receiving yards (667) of his career. A team in need of a low-end slot receiver...likely for a good price...should be interested in Kerley.

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PIT - RB DeAngelo Williams to be UFA

Source: Spotrac.com

Pittsburgh Steelers RB DeAngelo Williams will be an unrestricted free agent Thursday, March 9, at 4 p.m. EST.

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He may be the oldest RB in the league at age 33, but Williams still can contribute at the pro level. Williams had 58 carries the first two weeks of the season (for 237 yards) filling in for a suspended Le'Veon Bell. He could sign a one-year deal with a team looking for a quality veteran backup.

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NO - RB Tim Hightower set to be FA

Source: Spotrac.com

New Orleans Saints RB Tim Hightower will be an unrestricted free agent Thursday, March 9, at 4 p.m. EST.

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Hightower has shown great resiliency during his pro career, and he's provided valuable veteran depth for the Saints over the last two years. He could always stay in New Orleans, and we're not sure he'll get much interest outside of The Big Easy.

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LA - WR Brian Quick to be free agent

Source: Spotrac.com

Los Angeles Rams WR Brian Quick will be an unrestricted free agent Thursday, March 9, at 4 p.m. EST.

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Quick is coming off his best season as a pro. In 2016, Quick had career-high totals in catches (41), yards (564) and tied his career high in touchdowns (3). He could find interest on the open market from teams looking for a solid yet unspectacular complementary receiver.

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JAX - RB Denard Robinson will be free agent
Source: Spotrac.com

Jacksonville Jaguars RB Denard Robinson will be an unrestricted free agent Thursday, March 9, at 4 p.m. EST.

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A fifth-round pick of the Jaguars in 2013, Robinson has struggled in a limited role every year. He won't get a ton of interest on the open market, but perhaps some team will want to bring him in as a change-of-pace back.

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DAL - RB Darren McFadden to be UFA

Source: Spotrac.com

Dallas Cowboys RB Darren McFadden will be an unrestricted free agent Thursday, March 9, at 4 p.m. EST.

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After back-to-back 16-game seasons (2014, 2015), McFadden only appeared in three games in 2016. Oft-injured throughout his pro career, some team could take a chance on him as a reserve player.

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HOU - WR Braxton Miller healthy

Source: Houston Chronicle - Aaron Wilson

Houston Texans WR Braxton Miller (shoulder) said he did not need surgery on his injured shoulder and has been healthy for the last few weeks.

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Miller is a player we're monitoring in dynasty leagues. Still learning how to play wide receiver, the converted quarterback has great upside in year two of his pro career. We'll see if the Texans can find a way to get better play out of their quarterback position.

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NFL - Davis Webb sloppy in practice

Source: DraftWire

California QB Davis Webb has displayed inconsistent footwork during Senior Bowl practices, struggling with accuracy and overthrowing deep routes.

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This wasn't a great group of quarterbacks at the Senior Bowl. There's no Dak Prescott in this group, but Nate Peterman (PITT) did have the best week of practice. We see Peterman as a mid-round pick, and like his pass placement, accuracy and ability to challenge a defense vertically.

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NFL - Jamaal Williams displays versatility

Source: DraftWire

BYU RB Jamaal Williams showed he is more than just a power back during Senior Bowl practice Wednesday, Jan. 25, making sharp cuts and making linebackers miss in the open field.

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Williams is one of our favorite backs in this draft class. He runs with a blend of power and vision. Williams is the type of runner who can thrive with more carries as he gets stronger as the game goes on. We see him in the mold of a Robert Kelley or Jordan Howard.

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NFL - Chad Williams torches DBs

Source: DraftWire

Grambling State WR Chad X. Williams shined at Senior Bowl practice Wednesday, Jan. 25, beating defensive backs off the line and over the top in one-on-one drills.

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Williams is raw as a route-runner, but his physical tools are impressive. He's a late-round pick, but we'll be excited about his prospects in dynasty leagues.

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NFL - Cooper Kupp boosting his stock

Source: Sirius XM NFL Radio - Gil Brandt

Eastern Washington WR Cooper Kupp has impressed scouts with his route running during Senior Bowl practices and could be selected in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft.

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Kupp had a great week of practice at the Senior Bowl. He regularly got open with speed, and his routes are crisp. He's likely to be a second-round pick in the 2017 NFL draft.

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NFL - Mitch Trubisky the top QB prospect?

Source: USA TODAY Sports - Tom Pelissero

North Carolina QB Mitch Trubisky is considered the top quarterback prospect in the 2017 NFL Draft, according to scouts and personnel executives.

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It's not a great year for quarterbacks, so don't get too excited about Trubisky. He's got some Blake Bortles to his game...good and bad...without the rocket arm. Trubisky can make plays from the pocket, and he's got the athleticism to keep plays alive with his feet. However, his decision making is questionable and he needs to learn how to read defenses quickly.

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DEN - Denver to feature physical running game?

Source: The Denver Post - Cameron Wolfe

Denver Broncos new offensive line coach Jeff Davidson is expected to replace retired head coach Gary Kubiak's zone blocking scheme with a power running scheme.

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That's good news for C.J. Anderson and Devontae Booker. If Anderson and Booker can stay healthy, the Broncos could be a team that is among the best in the league on the ground. Of course, they need an improved offensive line to make that happen.

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Source: footballguys.com

**mr. leisure** · 01-29-17, 11:17 AM

Not much for QB`s in the next draft .