NFL Player News - Super Bowl Week

**batt33** · 01-29-18, 09:23 PM

NE - TE Rob Gronkowski still not cleared

Still early, Still think he is in the game

**LT Profits** · 01-30-18, 11:50 AM

Originally posted by batt33

NE - TE Rob Gronkowski still not cleared

Still early, Still think he is in the game

As does most of the free world including me.

That said, still not cleared even as I type this.

**LT Profits** · 01-30-18, 11:54 AM

Tuesday Update

NE - TE Rob Gronkowski still in protocol

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

New England Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski (concussion) remains in the concussion protocol Monday, Jan. 29, and he's not expected to take part in media sessions for the opening night of the Super Bowl.

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Most expect Gronkowski to be cleared in time for the game, but clearing concussion protocol isn't the same as a healing ligament, muscle, or bone, and he could always have a setback as he ramps up athletic activity in recovery. Stay tuned.

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TB - QB Ryan Fitzpatrick not ready to retire

Source: The Buffalo News - Nick Veronica

Tampa Bay Buccaneers impending free-agent QB Ryan Fitzpatrick said he is not considering retirement and wants to play in 2018.

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Fitzpatrick led the Bucs to a 2-1 record in his starts and he is still more than good enough to be a backup in the NFL. He is even one of the better backups when it comes to preserving fantasy value in a passing game because of his aggressive nature. He'll make a Week 1 roster if he wants to be on one.

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JAX - WR Allen Robinson close to full health

Source: ESPN.com - Mike DiRocco

Jacksonville Jaguars impending free-agent WR Allen Robinson (knee) said he expects to be 100 percent healthy in the near future. Robinson said he does not know what to expect from the Jaguars in terms of a possible contract offer.

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Robinson's ability to pass a physical could be a holdup in his free agent situation, although the Jaguars can still be aggressive in their attempts to sign him before he hits free agency. There is some sentiment that the team won't let Robinson get away, although obviously losing him this year did not affect the team to a great extent when it came to record and advancing in the postseason.

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NFL - Sony Michel can do it all

Source: NFL.com - Daniel Jeremiah

Georgia RB Sony Michel reminds Daniel Jeremiah of NFL.com of Kansas City RB Kareem Hunt, and Jeremiah believes Michel is capable of making a similar impact in the NFL.

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Michel has one of the best profiles as a pass catcher of any of the top 5-7 backs, and teams will seek to employ him the way Alvin Kamara and Christian McCaffrey have been used by their teams. He also has a lot of tread left on his tires after sharing with Nick Chubb and Todd Gurley during his career at Georgia. He'll be a first-round pick in dynasty rookie drafts, the only question is how high.

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NFL - Christian Kirk the next WR Golden Tate?

Source: NFL.com - Daniel Jeremiah

Texas A&M WR Christian Kirk reminds Daniel Jeremiah of NFL.com of Detroit Lions WR Golden Tate because of his elusiveness after the catch, and Jeremiah believes Kirk can make a similar impact.

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Kirk's fantasy value will be subject to the team he lands on. In a more pass heavy offense, he could be a target hog and approach Tate or Jarvis Landry's fantasy value, but in a more balanced offense and varied pass offense like the one the Rams use, his value will be lower.

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NFL - High ceiling for Calvin Ridley

Source: NFL.com - Daniel Jeremiah

Alabama WR Calvin Ridley is more than a deep threat and will be 'a top-tier No. 2 wideout' in the NFL, according to Daniel Jeremiah of NFL.com.

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Ridley could be an outstanding fantasy receiver with a big arm quarterback or one who can extend plays with an eye for the deep ball. Will Fuller has similar strengths and had a huge breakout with Deshaun Watson.

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CLE - Joe Thomas wants QB Kirk Cousins

Source: The Denver Post

Cleveland Browns OT Joe Thomas said he wants the front office to use cap space to sign Washington Redskins impending free-agent QB Kirk Cousins.

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New offensive coordinator Todd Haley would be a good fit with Cousins (or potentially available Alex Smith), and they should make a strong bid for Cousins. The problem is whether Cousins would want to play for Cleveland are dealing with the Washington organization.

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DEN - Denver willing to trade picks

Source: NFL.com - Nick Shook

Denver Broncos general manager John Elway referred to the team's picks in the 2018 NFL Draft as 'ammo' to make trades.

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The Broncos are still in win now mode with the quality of their defense and they are believed to be one of the primary teams that will make a strong play for Kirk Cousins. It also makes sense for them to use picks to move up if they are zeroing in on one quarterback to lead their team for hopefully the next decade or more, or to get a quarterback like Alex Smith if they can't land Cousins.

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Source: footballguys.com

**mr. leisure** · 01-30-18, 05:14 PM

I`m saying it now , Kirk Cousins goes to the broncos .

**yisman** · 01-30-18, 09:44 PM

Alex Smith traded to the Redskins to clear the way for Mahomes to start next year.

**batt33** · 01-30-18, 11:14 PM

Originally posted by yisman

Alex Smith traded to the Redskins to clear the way for Mahomes to start next year.

could do worse

**Otters27** · 01-31-18, 07:54 AM

Wow. Cheifs moving to Rebuild. Broncos could very well use Cousins.

**LT Profits** · 01-31-18, 08:52 AM

Wednesday Update

WAS - QB Alex Smith Traded to Washington

Source: ESPN

The Kansas City Chiefs have agreed to trade quarterback Alex Smith to the Washington Redskins, league sources confirmed to ESPN's Field Yates.

Smith and the Redskins reached an agreement on a four-year contract extension, sources tell ESPN's Adam Schefter.

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Smith to Washington is an important move and we'll see now how Cousins and Washington move forward.

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NE - TE Rob Gronkowski says he'll play in Super Bowl

Source: USA Today - A.J. Perez

Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski didn't provide many details, but he gave a straightforward response when he was asked if he'd be in the lineup against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday.

"Yes," Gronkowski said.

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It's what everyone seems to expect. We hopefully will have official word soon.

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PHI - QB Nick Foles in historic spot for Super Bowl

Source: NFL Research

Philadelphia Eagles QB Nick Foles will have registered the third-fewest starts (three) during the regular season of any quarterback to start under center in the ensuing Super Bowl. Retired QBs Jeff Hostetler and Doug Williams, with two apiece, were the only other quarterbacks to have started fewer games during the season prior to their starts in the Super Bowl -- both went on to win.

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Foles played maybe the best game of his career (save for that seven touchdown game vs Oakland) last week in the NFC Championship game. He has a lot of experience in the Pederson/Reid offensive system and should be more comfortable than a typical backup.

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JAX - QB Blake Bortles expected to stay

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

Jacksonville Jaguars QB Blake Bortles (wrist) is expected to remain with the Jaguars despite recently undergoing surgery on his injured wrist, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Rapoport said the plan all along has been for Bortles to return as starter.

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That's a good story now that they don't really have a choice unless his wrist heals by mid March. It is possible that they had always planned on bringing Bortles back, but the Jaguars would only be committed for one year and could still draft a quarterback this year as a possible replacement in 2019.

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WAS - QB Kirk Cousins wants winning team

Source: ProFootballTalk.com - Michael David Smith

Washington Redskins impending free-agent QB Kirk Cousins won't be solely focused on how much money he can make this offseason. He wants to be on a team that will contend for the Super Bowl. 'Is money a part of it? Sure. Is it the only thing? No,' Cousins said. 'It is about winning, and that's what I want more than anything, so I'm going to be willing to make sacrifices or do what has to be done to make sure I'm in the best possible position to win, and that's what the focus is going to be.'

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Read: Cousins doesn't want to go to Cleveland or the Jets no matter how much they want him. Denver continues to be one of the strongest candidates to land Cousins this offseason.

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IND - QB Andrew Luck close to throwing again

Source: NFL.com - Ian Rapoport and Mike Garofolo

Indianapolis Colts QB Andrew Luck (shoulder) is doing functional work - such as working on his motion and arm speed - to get strength back in the shoulder and is reportedly 'very close' to throwing again, according to a source. He is also reportedly headed out to the Los Angeles area in the near future to work with noted throwing mechanics and strength gurus Tom House and Adam Dedeaux.

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We will be watching this closely, but won't be penciling in Luck for the 2018 season until we see him on the practice field after last year's debacle. This news is good, but Luck is far away from being out of the woods, and we won't know if he'll be his old self again until he plays at least a handful of games.

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ARI - Arizona OC expecting WR Larry Fitzgerald back

Source: AZCardinals.com - Darren Urban

Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Mike McCoy is anticipating the return of WR Larry Fitzgerald next season, as during his introductory press conference with the club on Monday, Jan. 29, he 'sure sounded like a coach expecting Fitz to play.'

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Fitzgerald has been a PPR WR1 at the price of a WR2/WR3 for three years running now. If Carson Palmer returns, we can make it four. Even if the Cardinals have to look elsewhere for a starter, Fitzgerald should be a value if he returns.

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PHI - RB Darren Sproles leaning toward return in 2018

Source: NFL.com - Ian Rapoport
Philadelphia Eagles impending free-agent RB Darren Sproles (knee) recently told NFL.com's Ian Rapoport he is 'leaning toward returning' for the 2018 season. Sproles suffered a torn ACL in Week 3 and was placed on the Reserve/Injured list shortly thereafter.
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Sproles still had juice in his age 34 season, so there's no reason to think he can't hang this year. The league is moving more towards running backs with his skillset and the Eagles are still grooming Donnel Pumphrey to eventually replace Sproles.
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Source: footballguys.com

**mr. leisure** · 01-31-18, 10:17 AM

Originally posted by Otters27

Wow. Cheifs moving to Rebuild. Broncos could very well use Cousins.

Should have gotten rid of Andy Reid .

**batt33** · 01-31-18, 11:49 PM

Originally posted by mr. leisure

Should have gotten rid of Andy Reid .

It will be interesting to see if Elway wants to spend all that money, Vikings? Jags?...Browns need a qb but don't see cousins going there

**Otters27** · 02-01-18, 06:09 AM

Paxton Lynch = Huge Bust. Broncos should not draft a qb

**xraygord** · 02-01-18, 08:29 AM

Right on sounds good.

**LT Profits** · 02-01-18, 10:02 AM

Thursday Update

NE - RB Mike Gillislee feeling better

Source: NFL Network - Tom Pelissero

New England Patriots RB Mike Gillislee (knee) said his injured knee is definitely feeling better but is not sure if he will play in Super Bowl LII.

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Gillislee ended up being superfluous at the end of the season when Dion Lewis emerged as a true lead back. It's seeming unlikely that the Patriots will bring him back next year.

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NE - TE Rob Gronkowski still in protocol

Source: ESPNBoston.com - Mike Reiss

Updating previous reports, New England Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski (concussion) is still in the concussion protocol and has not been cleared to play at this point, according to head coach Bill Belichick.

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The countdown is on with only four days left until the game. Gronkowski is still more likely to play than not, but if this was the regular season we would definitely be weighing the possibility of Gronkowski not being cleared with only four days until the game.

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WAS - Washington reportedly extends QB Alex Smith

Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter

Washington Redskins QB Alex Smith, who was reportedly traded from the Kansas City Chiefs late in the night Tuesday, Jan. 30, has agreed to a four-year, $94 million contract extension that will keep him with the Redskins though the end of the 2022 season. The deal will reportedly include approximately $70 million in guaranteed money. Per NFL rules, the trade cannot be officially completed until the first day of the new league year (3 p.m. on March 14).

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That's a huge amount of money for a 33-year-old quarterback, but that's the market now, and Washington probably thought Kirk Cousins would cost significantly more. Jimmy Garoppolo's deal should be equal to or exceed this contract.

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MIN - John DeFilippo may be OC candidate?

Source: St. Paul Pioneer Press - Chris Tomasson

The Minnesota Vikings hope to talk with Philadelphia Eagles quarterbacks coach John DeFilippo about their offensive coordinator position after Super Bowl LII, according to a source.

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If DeFilippo isn't hired in Minnesota, Vikings quarterback coach Kevin Stefanski could be the leading candidate. DeFillippo is also a candidate for the open offensive coordinator job on the Giants staff, but so is Eagles running back coach Duce Staley. Staley could also become the Eagles offensive coordinator if DeFillippo is hired elsewhere.

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CIN - RB Jeremy Hill plans to test market

Source: The Cincinnati Enquirer - Jim Owczarski

Cincinnati Bengals impending free-agent RB Jeremy Hill has indicated that he plans to test the free-agent market this offseason.

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Hill is going to be a "big back" in a committee at best, and he might have to wait to be signed. This year's class has terrific power backs, and Hill probably will end up being a second wave free agent.

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ARI - RB Adrian Peterson to be released

Source: FOX Sports Radio 910 - Mike Jurecki

Arizona Cardinals RB Adrian Peterson is expected to be released, according to Fox Sports Radio's Mike Jurecki. Peterson's salary cap hit would be $3.5 million for 2018.

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Peterson had a few moments with the Cardinals last year, but despite running with a lot of intensity and urgency, Peterson doesn't appear to have enough juice to deserve a starting job in the NFL anymore. He'll have to decide if he's willing to be a bench/role player next year.

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ARI - WR Jaron Brown not expected back

Source: FOX Sports Radio 910 - Mike Jurecki

Arizona Cardinals impending free-agent WR Jaron Brown (knee) is not expected to be re-signed. Arizona sports radio host Mike Jurecki believes Brown is due for a big payday assuming he hits the market.

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Brown played behind DeAndre Hopkins and Sammy Watkins at Clemson, but his size and speed have come into play in the pros with solid execution. He could push to start in a weaker wide receiver corps.

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KC - Patrick Mahomes expected to start

Source: The Kansas City Star - John Sleezer

Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes is expected to enter the 2018 season as the starter with the trade of QB Alex Smith to the Washington Redskins.

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Mahomes has at least Smith's fantasy ceiling in 2018, and probably more. Tyreek Hill and Travis Kelce put defenses in an untenable bind and Mahomes is more aggressive throwing downfield than Smith. The Chiefs are losing Matt Nagy's playcalling, but Mahomes could make up for that and then some.

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NE - QB Tom Brady's hand not fully healed

Source: ESPNBoston.com - Mike Reiss

New England Patriots QB Tom Brady (hand) said his hand is 'not quite where I want to be' as part of comments made Tuesday, Jan. 30. Brady continues to wear a glove on his throwing hand.

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Brady had another memorable and masterful comeback playoff win with stitches in his thumb, so there's no reason to downgrade expectations for the Super Bowl.

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CLE - Cleveland made push for QB Alex Smith

Source: The Cleveland Plain Dealer - Mary Kay Cabot

Kansas City Chiefs QB Alex Smith, who was - in principle - traded to the Washington Redskins on Tuesday, Jan. 30, was reportedly also a target of the Cleveland Browns, according to a source.

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The Browns are going to be mentioned in connection with every top draft quarterback and every quarterback that could start on the free agent or trade market. They are still one of the least desirable destinations despite the copious amounts of money and playing time available for the team.

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Source: footballguys.com

**yisman** · 02-01-18, 04:02 PM

Gronk just cleared concussion protocol.

**mr. leisure** · 02-01-18, 06:12 PM

Originally posted by yisman

Gronk just cleared concussion protocol.

About time

**batt33** · 02-01-18, 09:46 PM

Originally posted by mr. leisure

About time

Right on kinda figured it was going to happen

**LT Profits** · 02-02-18, 09:48 AM

Friday Update

NE - TE Rob Gronkowski cleared

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

New England Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski (concussion) has cleared the concussion protocol and will be able to play in Super Bowl LII.

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As expected. Gronkowski will play and make things that much harder on the Eagles defense given they also have some potent outside threats as well. We think he'll put up strong numbers this weekend as Tom Brady will lean on him quite a bit to loosen the defense up.

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NE - RB Mike Gillislee says he's a game-time call

Source: WEEI.com - Ryan Hannable

Updating previous reports, New England Patriots RB Mike Gillislee (knee) said he's a game-time decision for the Super Bowl.

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After he was hyped as the guy to take over for Legarrette Blount, he hasn't had much to do. If he does play, it's hard to say what - if any - role he will have beyond someone to give the other backs a rest

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PHI - RB Jay Ajayi takes part in practice

Source: Patriots.com

Philadelphia Eagles RB Jay Ajayi (ankle) fully participated in practice Thursday, Feb. 1.

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The Eagles will probably use Ajayi early and often in the hopes the can pull coverage tighter to the line of scrimmage in order to open things up for the vertical routes in the passing game. Next to Dion Lewis, we think Ajayi represents the best bet in Daily Fantasy, though the price will be up there because of it.

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PHI - John DeFilippo may stay with Philly

Source: Minneapolis Star Tribune - Ben Goessling

Philadelphia Eagles quarterbacks coach John DeFilippo is expected to remain with the Eagles even though he is receiving interest from the Minnesota Vikings for their offensive coordinator position, according to a source.

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We won't know too much until after the game Sunday, but he must be excited to work with Carson Wentz next year as the young man continues to improve.

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HOU - QB Deshaun Watson excited for training camp

Source: ESPN.com - Sarah Barshop

Houston Texans QB Deshaun Watson (knee) is looking forward to training camp this offseason because he will be so much more comfortable in his second year. The dual-threat quarterback said his head was spinning last year, but now he knows what he'll need to accomplish before the season commences. As reported previously, Watson is ahead of schedule in his rehabilitation from a torn anterior cruciate ligament and could participate in organized team activities.

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Watson was well on his way to a potential Rookie of the Year award before his injury. It looks like head coach Bill O'Brien finally nailed the quarterback position, and Houston should be excited for next year.

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NE - QB Tom Brady has fared well indoors

Source: USA TODAY Fantasy Sports

New England Patriots QB Tom Brady and company will be playing in a dome for Super Bowl LII, which is the Minnesota Vikings' U.S. Bank Stadium. Brady has posted an 11-2 record while averaging 265.9 yards and 2.2 touchdowns in 13 career dome games.

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For what that's worth. Brady has posted a 5-2 record in Super Bowl appearances as well. Everyone has a plan - and stats - until they (or their team) gets punched in the face and they still have to play the game. It's not like you can be shocked Brady feels comfortable when there is no weather.

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CHI - RB Jordan Howard excited for new offense

Source: NFL Network

Chicago Bears RB Jordan Howard is excited about the Bears' new coaching staff and believes the offense will be more creative under new head coach Matt Nagy.

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It can't get less, though the limitations came in part due to a lack of talent at receiver. Still, Nagy will mix things up, hopefully unleash Mitch Trubisky and that would in turn pull the defense out of the box to clear lanes for Howard.

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GB - QB Aaron Rodgers questions QB coach decision

Source: ESPN.com - Rob Demovsky

Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers said he was not even consulted before former quarterbacks coach, and current Cincinnati Bengals quarterbacks coach, Alex Van Pelt was fired, adding that the decision was 'interesting.' Rodgers said he had a close connection with Van Pelt.

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This is pretty insane and while the tail shouldn't be wagging the dog, Rodgers is vital enough to where you'd think he would get a say. It remains to be seen how much drama this creates and whether it will impact his play but it has "Bad Idea" written all over it.

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BUF - QB Kirk Cousins won't see Bills' pursuit

Source: The Buffalo News - Nick Veronica

Washington Redskins impending free-agent QB Kirk Cousins is unlikely to be pursued by the Buffalo Bills, in the opinion of beat writer Mark Gaughan.

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The Bills don't have the money and aren't as attractive as several other teams in the hunt from a "win-now" standpoint. It could be they are determined to make a run at keeping Tyrod Taylor as well, or jumping on a lower-hype player who hits the market.

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NO - QB Drew Brees to sign short-term deal?

Source: ESPN.com - Mike Triplett

New Orleans Saints QB Drew Brees is expected to sign a one- or two-year contract to return to the team, in the opinion of ESPN's Mike Triplett.

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That's about as long as a contract should be with a 39-year old quarterback. Brees clearly has fuel left in the tank, so another year with him should keep the Saints offense rolling. But New Orleans is one of a number of teams who had best start thinking long term at the quarterback position.

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MIN - WR Adam Thielen healthy entering offseason

Source: ESPN.com - Courtney Cronin

Minnesota Vikings WR Adam Thielen (back) indicated that the back fractures he sustained during the Divisional Round win over the New Orleans Saints were not serious, and he is 'pretty much healthy' heading into the offseason.

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He's got plenty of time to heal and we don't think this will impact his 2018 at all. Thielen probably won't even miss camp.

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NYJ - Jets expected to go after QB Kirk Cousins

Source: ESPNNewYork.com - Rich Cimini
Washington Redskins impending free-agent QB Kirk Cousins has drawn the attention of 'quarterback-needy teams,' with the New York Jets 'expected' to be one of his suitors, according to Rich Cimini of ESPN.com.
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This isn't a shock to anyone. The Jets have a lot of cap space and a need. Cousins has a need to get paid. The wrinkle is Cousins' insistence that winning means more to him than money. He's been well paid the last few years so choosing a team like the Broncos, who are closer to contention than the Jets, could be attractive.
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Source: footballguys.com

**mr. leisure** · 02-02-18, 11:53 AM

Philly + the points

**yisman** · 02-02-18, 07:50 PM

Gb firing van pelt doesn't make sense

**batt33** · 02-02-18, 10:54 PM

NE - RB Mike Gillislee says he's a game-time call

NE has a bullpen of RB's, Don't think it's a big deal

**Otters27** · 02-03-18, 06:19 AM

McCowan just as good as Cousins. Even though he is old

**u21c3f6** · 02-03-18, 07:37 AM

I was feeling disappointed for Alex Smith and the way his career has "progressed" but then I saw his contract and that disappointed feeling went away!

Joe.

**LT Profits** · 02-03-18, 01:41 PM

Saturday Update

NE - TE Rob Gronkowski off injury report

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

New England Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski (concussion) fully participated in practice Friday, Feb. 2, and has been removed from the injury report for Super Bowl LII.

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Gronkowski concussion protocol watch is over. He is maybe the second most likely MVP behind Tom Brady.

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BUF - QB Tyrod Taylor not taking pay cut

Source: The Buffalo News - Vic Carucci

Buffalo Bills QB Tyrod Taylor said he hopes to remain with the Bills but is not willing to take a pay cut.

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Even last offseason, it felt like the forces pushing Taylor and the Bills apart were stronger than those keeping them together. Head coach Sean McDermott surprisingly kept him, the team surprisingly made the playoffs, and unsurprisingly still it seems he is not the team's choice to be their quarterback. He could be a very interesting backup in Jacksonville or have a chance to fill a hole in Arizona or Denver or with the Jets until they find a long term solution. Taylor is one of the 32 best quarterbacks in the league, but his limitations will keep a team from committing to him as a long term quarterback.

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NYJ - QB Josh McCown hopes to return to Jets

Source: Newsday - Calvin Watkins

New York Jets impending free-agent QB Josh McCown said he hopes to re-sign with the Jets this offseason and would not have a problem being a bridge quarterback for the team.

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McCown elevated the Jets to a competitive team most weeks and even a contender in the first half of the season. He was clearly good for the team and they should be happy to bring him back for market value whether they draft a quarterback or not, but maybe especially if they do so McCown can rub off on them.

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NYJ - RB Matt Forte wants to continue playing

Source: Newsday - Calvin Watkins

New York Jets RB Matt Forte said he wants to play next season.

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Forte's knee was unreliable this season and there's no reason to think it can hold up better next year unless his workload is scaled back after he wasn't able to sustain his health and a steady workload following two different games with 18 touches. His days of fantasy relevance are over.

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PIT - Guaranteed money important to Le'Veon Bell

Source: NFL.com - Kevin Patra

Pittsburgh Steelers impending free-agent RB Le'Veon Bell said the guaranteed money is the most important thing for him in negotiations with the Steelers.

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What Bell wants is a commitment from the Steelers, but they can franchise him for about 14.5 million and get another year of a heavy workload with no additional costs if Bell breaks down or gets suspended again. Whether he'll hold out through the majority of the season to formally break off long term relations with the team is possible, and something the team might test to avoid giving Bell the guaranteed money he wants.

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WAS - QB Kirk Cousins surprised by Alex Smith trade

Source: ProFootballTalk.com - Michael David Smith

Washington Redskins impending free-agent QB Kirk Cousins said he was surprised when he heard about the Redskins' agreement to acquire Kansas City Chiefs QB Alex Smith.

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The communication between Cousins and the team seemed to break down as soon as the season was over and it didn't take long for him to remove Washington from Twitter profile. Only Cleveland is clearly lower on the organizational dysfunction scale.

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WAS - QB Kirk Cousins excited about free agency

Source: ProFootballTalk.com - Michael David Smith

Washington Redskins impending free-agent QB Kirk Cousins said he is looking forward to hitting the free-agent market because he has not been able to choose the team he plays for since college. He said he will be looking to sign with a team that can win a championship.

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Denver, Minnesota, and Jacksonville are all candidates if Cousins is focusing on winning a title. Jacksonville is leaning towards Blake Bortles and Minnesota has three quarterbacks that were on the roster last year to consider too. In light of this, the Broncos are looking good as his future team, and the Jets are on the fringe.

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NYG - QB Eli Manning fine with drafting of QB

Source: The Bergen Record - Art Stapleton

New York Giants QB Eli Manning said he would not have a problem with the Giants if they decide to select a quarterback with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.

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Manning took over for Kurt Warner when the Giants had a winning record. He showed perspective in interviews that reflected well on his team mentality last year. In the meantime, the Giants pass offense will be more viable with him than a rookie, and the Giants could always pass on quarterback at #2.

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PHI - Philly tried to get RB LeSean McCoy back

Source: New York Daily News - Manish Mehta

Buffalo Bills RB LeSean McCoy was a trade target of the Philadelphia Eagles through back-channel intermediaries, according to sources. The Eagles offered a package of players that included then-Eagles WR Jordan Matthews.

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Howie Roseman turned this team around in only two years with whiplash speed. The willingness to ask for McCoy in a trade is the most direct admission that there was strong disagreement in the organization when Chip Kelly took the reins of personnel decisions.

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MIN - QB Teddy Bridgewater FA status unclear

Source: ESPN.com - Courtney Cronin

Minnesota Vikings QB Teddy Bridgewater could have his contract tolled, which would put him back under contract with the Vikings for 2018 at his salary rate ($1.354 million) from the past season as opposed to entering unrestricted free agency. The issue stems from Bridgewater spending the first six weeks of this past season on the PUP list and whether or not he was medically cleared at any point before those six weeks elapsed. GM Rick Spielman indicated the decision to have the contract tolled would come from the NFL and the NFLPA, and not from the Vikings.

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This could greatly change the complexion of the choice the Vikings have to make between three potential free agent quarterbacks. If Bridgewater is back at pennies on the dollar in this quarterback market, they could afford to sign one of Case Keenum and Sam Bradford to create a competition.

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CHI - QB Mike Glennon as good as gone?

Source: ESPN.com - Jeff Dickerson

Chicago Bears QB Mike Glennon is expected to play elsewhere in 2018 according to ESPN's Jeff Dickerson, who put the odds of Glennon returning at 'virtually nil.'

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The Bears probably knew this outcome was likely as soon as they zeroed in on Mitchell Trubisky in last year's draft. The Buccaneers could bring Glennon back to be their #2 behind Jameis Winston. The team reportedly offered him a contract that would have made him the highest paid backup in the league last year. Like Denver with Brock Osweiler they can get their man a lot cheaper now because they came in second when he was on the open market.

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KC - Travis Kelce confident in Patrick Mahomes

Source: NFL.com - Marc Sessler

Kansas City Chiefs TE Travis Kelce said that he knows QB Patrick Mahomes is 'ready for the opportunity' and that the club can 'without a doubt' win a championship with Mahomes under center. 'He can throw the ball any way, he can throw it off his back foot and he can jump and throw, he can throw the ball anywhere, any way you need for it to be thrown,' Kelce added. 'His confidence is definitely one of the best attributes to his game.'
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Kelce put Mahomes in on Madden this morning when piloting the Chiefs, according to NFL Network's Dan Hellie. He and Tyreek Hill could have higher ceilings than they had with Alex Smith, and their speculative value is up.
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Source: footballguys.com

**mr. leisure** · 02-03-18, 02:02 PM

Originally posted by yisman

Gb firing van pelt doesn't make sense

Nope , AR was not happy about that at all.

**LT Profits** · 02-04-18, 09:14 AM

Super Bowl Sunday Update

PHI - WR Nelson Agholor battling flu

Source: NFL.com - Ian Rapoport

Philadelphia Eagles WR Nelson Agholor (illness) received an IV on Saturday, Feb. 3, after feeling 'sick and weak' but is 'already feeling better' and should be 'fine' for Super Bowl XII.

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Agholor could have one of the best matchups for the Eagles lining up in the slot, so the importance of him being at full strength is magnified.

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NYJ - NYJ talking with Austin Seferian-Jenkins

Source: ESPNNewYork.com - Rich Cimini

New York Jets impending free-agent TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins has started contract talks with the Jets.

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Seferian-Jenkins slowed down at the end of the year, but he was a reliable target near the line of scrimmage and should have had two more touchdowns that were overturned on questionable calls. They need a tight end and Seferian-Jenkins has turned his off-field life around by all accounts.

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TEN - WR Tajae Sharpe on track for workouts

Source: TitansOnline.com - Jim Wyatt

Tennessee Titans WR Tajae Sharpe (foot) has recovered from his foot injury and should be ready for the start of offseason workouts.

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Sharpe will be fighting for playing time, especially if the team bring back impending free agent Eric Decker. Corey Davis, Rishard Matthews, and Taywan Taylor should be the team's top three receivers if Decker signs elsewhere, and everyone will be jockeying to endear themselves to the new regime on the offensive side of the ball, led by new offensive coordinator Matt LaFleur.

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PIT - Le'Veon Bell plans to be at camp

Source: NFL.com - Kevin Patra

Pittsburgh Steelers impending free-agent RB Le'Veon Bell said at this point he plans to be at training camp on time next season.

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Bell has only been giving off positive vibes about his status with the Steelers for 2018, but it also sounds like he wanted guaranteed money that equals a long term commitment, which the team has been reluctant to do. The overall trend is good for Bell being in black and gold, but this story is far from over.

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CAR - No more surgery for TE Greg Olsen

Source: ESPN.com - David Newton

Carolina Panthers TE Greg Olsen (foot) will not need any more surgery on his foot and is looking forward to working with new offensive coordinator Norv Turner.

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Olsen wasn't quite his old self after returning this year, but he did have a great game against the Saints in the playoffs and seemed to be rounding into form. He could be a value pick next year with the Panthers not having a proven #1 wide receiver.

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BAL - Baltimore considered coaching change

Source: ESPN.com - Jamison Hensley

Baltimore Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti said he considered firing head coach John Harbaugh after the season but has decided to keep Harbaugh.

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This is questionable considering the challenges the team had to face on the offensive side of the ball because of injuries, including Joe Flacco's herniated disc in his back. Harbaugh has to be seen on a warm seat heading into the 2018 season and with Ozzie Newsome scaling back his activities, the Ravens franchise could be in for big changes at the top.

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ATL - RB Devonta Freeman may be ready for workouts

Source: ProFootballTalk.com - Mike Florio

Atlanta Falcons RB Devonta Freeman (knee) said he could be ready for the start of offseason workouts but wants to be completely healthy before he returns so he does not have to deal with the injury during the season.

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Freeman avoiding surgery is good news, assuming that his knee feels right when he returns to action. He would be smart to delay his return if he has any feeling that the knee is off, but then again if his return is delayed too long, we might start to wonder if the surgery will come into play again.

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ARZ - RB Adrian Peterson not close to retirement

Source: St. Paul Pioneer Press - Chris Tomasson

Arizona Cardinals RB Adrian Peterson will turn 33 years old in March, but he recently told the St. Paul Pioneer Press' Chris Tomasson he wants at least four more years.

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Peterson seemed to end up under the line of primary backs this year, and that line is just going to get higher with the introduction of any very strong class of backs. It remains to be seen whether Peterson can accept a backup role after how his stint in New Orleans ended up.

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NYG - QB Eli Manning confident he will start in 2018

Source: St. Paul Pioneer Press - Chris Tomasson

New York Giants QB Eli Manning has reportedly been assured from new head coach Pat Shurmur that he will be the starting quarterback in 2018.

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To open the season, surely, but maybe not to close the season. The Giants should be able to find a quarterback worthy of the #2 pick in this strong class, and they shouldn't expect to be picking this high in the draft again any time soon.

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DEN - QB Kirk Cousins eyeing Denver?

Source: 9News.com - Mike Klis

Washington Redskins impending free-agent QB Kirk Cousins said he would 'love' if the Denver Broncos showed interest in signing him this offseason.

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This has seemed like a very obvious pairing for a long time. Cousins wants a winner, John Elway can close a deal, and the team has wide receiver talent that he can unlock. Consider Denver the favorite to land him unless we hear otherwise.

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MIN - RB Dalvin Cook headed for big year?

Source: Vikings.com - Eric Smith

Minnesota Vikings RB Dalvin Cook (knee) has 'progressed nicely' from his knee surgery, general manager Rick Spielman said Thursday, Feb. 1, and Spielman said Cook could have the same success that Arizona Cardinals RB Adrian Peterson had coming off his knee surgery in 2012.

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Cook's injury happened relatively early in the year. If he hadn't gotten hurt, he probably would have only been looking up at Todd Gurley and LeVeon Bell in the final running back value tally. If we get to see him play in the preseason, he'll be a first round consideration, and maybe even if we don't.

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KC - Patrick Mahomes making strides

Source: SI.com - Peter King

Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes is 'way ahead of schedule' in his development, according to one of his coaches.

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The Chiefs must have seen this behind the scenes, not to mention in Week 17 and the preseason. He should at least keep the Chiefs offense level with 2017 in fantasy terms, and could easily add value to all of their players by unlocking downfield passing potential that Alex Smith was just opening up to last year.

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NYG - Baker Mayfield wants to be a Giant

Source: Newsday - Tom Rock

Oklahoma QB Baker Mayfield said playing for the New York Giants would be an 'ideal situation' for him, and he said there are some 'studs' in the team's current receiving corps.

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Mayfield should say every situation and organization will be good for him. If a quarterback his suboptimal height goes in the top six it will be a testament to what teams see that he has to offer, and their quarterback thirst. Mayfield has at least as much to work with physically and almost certainly more than Case Keenum, and we saw what Pat Shurmur did with him in Minnesota.

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ATL - QB Matt Ryan to give a discount?

Source: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution - D. Orlando Ledbetter
Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank expects QB Matt Ryan to take a hometown discount when the two sides work on a contract extension. 'We expect him to work with us to ensure there's talent around him,' Blank said.
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We've seen Tom Brady among others take deals that allow his team to be more competitive by accepting less money than market value, but that was in a lower salary cap era. Of course, Ryan taking less money should still be well north of 20 million dollars a year.
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Source: footballguys

**JAKEPEAVY21** · 02-04-18, 09:54 AM

Originally posted by yisman

Gronk just cleared concussion protocol.

Hopefully one of the Eagles takes him out early in the game..

**mr. leisure** · 02-04-18, 10:49 AM

Here`s hoping to a profitable super bowl for everyone !!

**Otters27** · 02-04-18, 11:01 AM

Originally posted by JAKEPEAVY21

Hopefully one of the Eagles takes him out early in the game..

This could easily happen. Got to see if their is a prop bet on that.

**batt33** · 02-04-18, 11:05 AM

Originally posted by mr. leisure

Here`s hoping to a profitable super bowl for everyone !!

GL Leisure!

**mr. leisure** · 02-05-18, 12:10 AM

Originally posted by mr. leisure

Philly + the points

Great game , hope everyone made some money .

**xraygord** · 02-05-18, 12:12 PM

Same place next years boys.

**yisman** · 02-05-18, 12:53 PM

Gronk considering retirement.