NFL Player News - Week of 2/26/18

**mr. leisure** · 02-26-18, 12:09 PM

Bengals | John Ross better prepared
Cincinnati Bengals WR John Ross blamed the injuries he suffered last year on not being prepared for the physical aspects of the NFL, but he says it 'all started to click' at the end of the season.

That`s what I want to hear from a draft pick .

**Otters27** · 02-27-18, 07:50 AM

Saw some futures on where Cousins ends up. Broncos where the the favorite and then the JEts I think.

**LT Profits** · 02-27-18, 10:43 AM

Tuesday Update

NFL | Sam Darnold won't throw at Combine
Southern California QB Sam Darnold won't throw at the NFL Scouting Combine and will focus on athletic testing and interviews instead, according to a source. He will throw at USC's pro day March 21.

Bills | Chris Ivory visits Bills
Free-agent RB Chris Ivory (Jaguars) visited with the Buffalo Bills Monday, Feb. 26, according to a source.

Vikings | Teddy Bridgewater likely to be set free
Minnesota Vikings impending free-agent QB Teddy Bridgewater is expected to become a free agent, according to sources.

Vikings | Vikings a 'player' for Kirk Cousins
The Minnesota Vikings are 'going to be players' for Washington Redskins impending free-agent QB Kirk Cousins, according to Mike Garafolo of NFL Network.

Falcons | Tevin Coleman likely staying put
Atlanta Falcons RB Tevin Coleman is unlikely to get traded this offseason, according to general manager Thomas Dimitroff, who told ESPN's Vaughn McClure he could see a scenario in which he would sign Coleman to an extension despite signing RB Devonta Freeman to a six year, $43.088 million contract last summer.

Jaguars | Blake Bortles in rare company
Jacksonville Jaguars QB Blake Bortles has thrown for 90 career passing touchdowns and just under 15,000 passing yards. Former NFL QBs Peyton Manning, Dan Marino and Drew Bledsoe and Detroit Lions QB Matthew Stafford are the only quarterbacks in NFL history to achieve those numbers before turning 26 years old. Bortles turns 26 in April.

Broncos | Denver will meet with Kirk Cousins' agent
Washington Redskins QB Kirk Cousins's agent, Mike McCartney, will meet with the Denver Broncos during the NFL combine this week. McCartney also represents Broncos QB Trevor Siemian.

Footballguys view: At this time, the Broncos could be considered a favorite to land Cousins. That is...unless the Vikings get into the mix. Siemian is likely to be traded away and Paxton Lynch is a bust. The Broncos have missed the playoffs each of the last two years after winning Super Bowl 50. Adding Cousins is the first of multiple moves they must do to get back in the hunt.

Dolphins | Jarvis Landry expected to be traded
Miami Dolphins WR Jarvis Landry's agent and the Dolphins will meet Wednesday, Feb. 28, at the NFL combine to discuss his future, according to sources.
Footballguys view: That sounds about right. Several sources believe Landry will be traded this offseason after receiving the franchise tag last week.

Source: footballguys.com

**mpaschal34** · 02-27-18, 11:40 AM

As a dynasty owner of Landry, they better not ship him off to Cleveland (or some other sucky QB team).

**mr. leisure** · 02-27-18, 12:45 PM

Originally posted by Otters27

Saw some futures on where Cousins ends up. Broncos where the the favorite and then the JEts I think.

Vikings are in the mix too .

**LT Profits** · 02-28-18, 11:51 AM

Wednesday Update

Panthers | Jonathan Stewart released
Carolina Panthers RB Jonathan Stewart was released Wednesday, Feb. 28.

Bills | Kelvin Benjamin progressing
Buffalo Bills WR Kelvin Benjamin (knee) is progressing from knee surgery, and he's expected to be ready for conditioning in April.

Bears | Mike Glennon informed he'll be cut
Updating previous reports, Chicago Bears QB Mike Glennon was informed he'll be released when the new league year opens, according to general manager Ryan Pace.

Chargers | Mike Williams has work to do
Los Angeles Chargers WR Mike Williams has a lot of work to do this offseason before emerging as the No. 2 option at wide receiver, according to beat writer Eric D. Williams, who believes that job is still held by WR Tyrell Williams.

Chargers | Bolts looking to help Melvin Gordon
The Los Angeles Chargers would like to help RB Melvin Gordon with a stable of running backs with different skill sets, and they might be looking for a bigger, more powerful back to spell Gordon during the year.

Raiders | Michael Crabtree sticking around
Oakland Raiders WR Michael Crabtree has met with head coach Jon Gruden in the past month, and the expectation is Crabtree will return for the 2018 season.

NFL | Courtland Sutton looking to impress
Southern Methodist WR Courtland Sutton heads to the NFL Scouting Combine this week in need of stellar workouts to remain a consideration in the first round of the upcoming draft, according to sources. He needs to show some athleticism and prove he's more than just a big body who won out for contested passes against inferior competition, according to DraftAnalyst.com's Tony Pauline.

NFL | Mason Rudolph to show arm at combine
Oklahoma State QB Mason Rudolph (foot) revealed in an NFL.com Path to the Draft Diary earlier this week that he will throw at the NFL Scouting Combine. Quarterbacks are scheduled to take the field and throw on Saturday, March 3, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. He is making his way back from a mid-foot sprain, but he has been optimistic all along that he would be ready for the combine.

NFL | Baker Mayfield plans to throw in Indy
Oklahoma QB Baker Mayfield plans to throw this weekend at the NFL Scouting Combine. Quarterbacks are scheduled to throw Saturday, March 3, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, joining top prospects UCLA QB Josh Rosen and Wyoming QB Josh Allen, among others.

NFL | Josh Allen will throw Saturday
Wyoming QB Josh Allen will throw at the NFL Scouting Combine, joining top prospects QB Josh Rosen and QB Baker Mayfield. The quarterbacks are scheduled to throw at Lucas Oil Field in Indianapolis at the combine on Saturday, March 3.

NFL | Josh Rosen to throw at combine
UCLA QB Josh Rosen is planning to throw at the NFL Scouting Combine later this week, joining top prospects like Oklahoma's Baker Mayfield and Wyoming's Josh Allen. Quarterbacks are scheduled to take the field at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis to throw on Saturday, March 3.

Dolphins | Miami lukewarm on Ryan Tannehill?
The Miami Dolphins reportedly 'remain committed' to QB Ryan Tannehill as their 2018 starter, but there is a belief the Dolphins have 'at least some willingness inside the Dolphins to genuinely consider a quarterback with the No. 11 pick in the NFL Draft this spring.'

Packers | Aaron Rodgers extension talks moving forward
The Green Bay Packers have made progress in contract extension talks with QB Aaron Rodgers, according to team president Mark Murphy.

Giants | Orleans Darkwa could return
New York Giants impending free-agent RB Orleans Darkwa is a player the Giants may try to re-sign before the start of free agency, in the opinion of ESPN.com's Jordan Raanan.

Footballguys view: Darkwa should go back to being depth even if the Giants re-sign him. They have 2017 fourth-rounder Wayne Gallman on the rise and could draft Saquon Barkley at #2, or add another back later from this ultra-talented class.

Browns | Cleveland will work out Sam Darnold
Southern California QB Sam Darnold will have a private workout with the Cleveland Browns before the 2018 NFL Draft. The Browns plan to have private workouts with all of the top quarterback prospects.

Patriots | Dion Lewis would like to return
New England Patriots impending free-agent RB Dion Lewis said he hopes to re-sign with the Patriots this offseason but will do what is best for him and his family.

Footballguys view: He didn't make it sound like he expected to be back with the Patriots. A lot of teams, including the Titans and 49ers, could use a back like Lewis. He should get the best contract of his career coming off of a strong finish to the season.

Dolphins | Miami impressed with Baker Mayfield
Oklahoma QB Baker Mayfield impressed the Miami Dolphins during their meeting at the Senior Bowl, according to a source. Miami is scheduled to have dinner with Mayfield before his Pro Day.

Footballguys view: Mayfield is often mocked to Miami at the #11 pick, although there's a chance he won't last that long. No matter what the Dolphins say about Ryan Tannehill, the commitment to him is just year-to-year and the team could be looking to go in another direction.

Cowboys | No meeting planned for Dez Bryant
Dallas Cowboys WR Dez Bryant's representation is not scheduled to meet with the Cowboys during NFL combine festivities this week, according to executive vice president Stephen Jones. Jones did add that a conversation is expected to happen sooner rather than later. Bryant is slated to become a free agent in 2020.
Footballguys view: Recent comments from the team has made it sound more like Bryant will be elsewhere next season. He should draw a lot of interest if he hits free agency, and Dak Prescott would be left with a ragtag receiver corps, so the team would be in the market for upgrades in free agency and the draft.

Source: footballguys.com

**mr. leisure** · 02-28-18, 12:19 PM

Bears | Mike Glennon informed he'll be cut
Updating previous reports, Chicago Bears QB Mike Glennon was informed he'll be released when the new league year opens, according to general manager Ryan Pace.

Terrible signing by the bears last year . Cut 1 year into a 45 mil contract with 18.5 guaranteed .

**Otters27** · 03-01-18, 07:53 AM

haha glennon set for life as a backup qb

**LT Profits** · 03-01-18, 10:19 AM

Thursday Update

Colts | Frank Gore won't return to Indy
Updating previous reports, Indianapolis Colts impending free-agent RB Frank Gore was informed by general manager Chris Ballard that he won't be re-signed by the Colts.

Giants | HC says Eli Manning has 'years' left
New York Giants QB Eli Manning still has 'years' left as a starting quarterback in the NFL, according to head coach Pat Shurmur.

Titans | GM excited for Derrick Henry under new OC
Tennessee Titans general manager Jon Robinson said at the NFL Scouting Combine on Wednesday, Feb. 28, how much he is 'looking forward' to working with RB Derrick Henry 'in the new offense,' adding that 'he is obviously a little more acclimated to the pro game and I think he can be a guy we can hand the ball to and throw it to.'

Chiefs | Kareem Hunt in line for more targets?
Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid said at the NFL Scouting Combine on Wednesday, Feb. 28, that 'we probably need to expand on' RB Kareem Hunt's role in the passing game for next season.

Giants | Odell Beckham wants $20 million annually
New York Giants WR Odell Beckham Jr. 'has told some people' that he would like to make at least $20 million per year on his next contract. He's entering the final season of his current deal in 2018.

Buccaneers | Tampa talking with Ryan Fitzpatrick
Tampa Bay Buccaneers impending free-agent QB Ryan Fitzpatrick has had some contract talks with the Buccaneers, but general manager Jason Licht said no deal is close at this point.

Texans | C.J. Fiedorowicz plans to attend workouts
Houston Texans TE C.J. Fiedorowicz plans to attend the offseason workouts even though he has said he is considering retirement.

49ers | Carlos Hyde's agent to meet with 49ers
San Francisco 49ers RB Carlos Hyde's agent will meet with the 49ers this week at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine.

Falcons | Taylor Gabriel will hit market
Atlanta Falcons impending free-agent WR Taylor Gabriel will hit the free-agent market this offseason, according to general manager Thomas Dimitroff.

Redskins | Tag unlikely for Kirk Cousins
Washington Redskins impending free-agent Kirk Cousins probably will not receive the franchise tag this offseason, according to senior vice president of player personnel Doug Williams.

Packers | Ty Montgomery still considered RB
Green Bay Packers RB Ty Montgomery is still considered a running back, head coach Mike McCarthy said Wednesday, Feb. 28, but he could be more of a hybrid back/receiver heading into 2018.

Broncos | Denver likely to meet with Baker Mayfield
Oklahoma QB Baker Mayfield likely will have a pre-draft visit with the Denver Broncos leading up to the 2018 NFL Draft, according to general manager John Elway.

Packers | Jordy Nelson still in plans of team
Green Bay Packers WR Jordy Nelson remains in the team's plans, and both head coach Mike McCarthy and general manager Brian Gutekunst didn't appears to be making plans to cut him after a down season. The duo stressed it is important to examine all factors in Nelson's diminished output.

NFL | Chris Johnson wants to play in 2018
Free-agent RB Chris Johnson (Cardinals) said Wednesday, Feb. 28, that he wants to 'give it another go' and continue his career in 2018. 'I'm not done yet. I am still going strong. I got too much juice left,' Johnson said.

Vikings | GM expects Teddy Bridgewater to be UFA
Minnesota Vikings general manager Rick Spielman said he expects QB Teddy Bridgewater to be declared an unrestricted free agent this offseason.

Packers | Brett Hundley wasn't ready to start
Green Bay Packers QB Brett Hundley was forced into a starting role last season, and the team still has faith in his despite the fact he wasn't ready to start. 'Brett Hundley wasn't ready for what he needed to be ready for,' head coach Mike McCarthy said Wednesday, Feb. 28. 'That's something we have to learn from, and that stings.' The coach also said others didn't step up around him, and he still believes in Hundley.

Cowboys | HC careful with words on Dez Bryant
Dallas Cowboys WR Dez Bryant will not have a meeting with the team during the NFL Scouting Combine, and head coach Jason Garrett said Wednesday, Feb. 28, that he has not had specific personnel meetings about any player yet. 'We have a tremendous amount of love for Dez Bryant as an organization,' Garrett said. 'He's made so many contributions to our team. I personally have a lot of love for him as a player and more so as a person.'

Texans | Deshaun Watson ahead of schedule
Houston Texans QB Deshaun Watson (knee) remains ahead of schedule in his recovery from a torn anterior cruciate ligament suffered in his right knee last season, head coach Bill O'Brien said Wednesday, Feb. 28. He might even be able to participate in some organized team activities (OTAs).

Jets | NYJ to meet with QB prospects
The New York Jets will meet with the top quarterback prospects including Southern California QB Sam Darnold and UCLA QB Josh Rosen at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine.

Patriots | Danny Amendola hopes to play
New England Patriots impending free-agent WR Danny Amendola said he hopes to play in 2018 and that it would ideally be with the Patriots.

Vikings | Kyle Rudolph recovering from surgery
Minnesota Vikings TE Kyle Rudolph (ankle) said Tuesday, Feb. 28, that he underwent surgery to repair the injured right ankle which affected him at the end of the 2017 season. 'I knew it was inevitable to have it fixed,' he said in a radio interview. 'That's what the offseason is for. The glamorous life of the NFL offseason. You roll around on a scooter.'

Vikings | Big jump for Laquon Treadwell?
Minnesota Vikings WR Laquon Treadwell is being counted upon for a big jump in 2018, his third NFL season. General manager Rick Spielman said Tuesday, Feb. 28, that he is hopeful for the former first-round pick will take a step forward. 'It's going to be a big year for him. Hoping to see that jump this year,' Spielman said. 'I know he does work extremely hard at it. He's a pleaser. He wants to do good. You just got to learn to relax a little bit and not press so much - enjoy playing. Don't put so much pressure on yourself.

Footballguys view: In two years, Treadwell only has 21 catches...with 20 of those coming just last year. He's got the makings of a bust right now, but the team hasn't given up on him. Dynasty owners should try to buy low just in case Treadwell can turn it around with the Vikings in 2018....or with a new team and a fresh start sometime after that.

Bills | Zay Jones on track for workouts
Buffalo Bills WR Zay Jones (shoulder) is on track for the start of offseason workouts, according to head coach Sean McDermott.

Footballguys view: Jones is the FBS all-time leading receiver but as a rookie with the Bills he was not productive. We'll see if he can get healthy, stay healthy and get more involved and successful in the passing game.

Redskins | Washington to add running back?
Washington Redskins RBs Samaje Perine and Chris Thompson will have new company in 2018 if senior vice president of player personnel Doug Williams has his way. Williams said the Redskins undoubtedly have to upgrade at the position.

Vikings | GM won't rule out tag for Case Keenum
Updating an ongoing story, Minnesota Vikings general manager Rick Spielman would not rule out placing the franchise tag on impending free-agent QB Case Keenum. 'There's been no decisions made, unlike what's been reported,' he said Wednesday, Feb. 28, at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine.

Broncos | Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders will stay
Denver Broncos WRs Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders are expected to remain in Denver, according to general manager John Elway. Thomas' $4 million option will be picked up.

Footballguys view: Those two have to stay if the Broncos want to lure Kirk Cousins to them in free agency. Thomas has a $4 million option that needs to be picked up in 10 days or so, but the team may restructure his deal after they do that.

Colts | Andrew Luck on track for offseason program
Updating an ongoing story, Indianapolis Colts QB Andrew Luck (shoulder) is on track to join the team's offseason program April 2, head coach Frank Reich said Wednesday, Feb. 28, at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine.

Footballguys view: This is the best news Colts fans could get...and fantasy owners should be pretty happy too. Reich said Luck 'checked every box.' It doesn't mean he's a lock for Week 1, but it certainly looks like Luck is on the right track.

Packers | Aaron Rodgers is healthy
Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers (collarbone) met with Dr. Pat McKenzie, and 'everything looks good' with Rodgers' clavicle, according to Packers head coach Mike McCarthy.

Footballguys view: Great news for Rodgers and the Packers here. They'll ease him back into action when he's ready, but expect Rodgers to perform in the preseason and be a full go for Week 1 of the 2018 regular season.

Patriots | Rob Gronkowski expected to play
New England Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski is expected to return for the 2018 season after pondering retirement and other opportunities, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Footballguys view: Gronkowski was considering retirement and was serious about it according to reports. It sounds like he's had some time after the Super Bowl 52 defeat to consider his options. If healthy, Gronkowski is a no-brainer TE1 for fantasy owners.

Broncos | Jake Butt should be ready
Denver Broncos TE Jake Butt (knee) is expected to be healthy enough to be full-go for organized team activities, according to head coach Vance Joseph.

Footballguys view: Butt has Kyle Rudolph-like ability and first-round tools but a knee injury suffered in Michigan's bowl game caused him to fall to the fifth round of the 2017 NFL draft. The Broncos don't have any great tight end and Virgil Green is likely to leave via free agency this offseason. A healthy Butt would greatly help the Broncos offense.

Bengals | Joe Mixon will be bell cow back
Cincinnati Bengals RB Joe Mixon will be the featured running back with RB Giovani Bernard mixed in, according to director of player personnel Duke Tobin.
Footballguys view: Good news for dynasty owners, for Mixon and for the Bengals. Mixon has the ability to be a lead back and a RB1 for fantasy owners. We'll see how the Bengals re-work their offense in 2018 to get him more involved.

Source: footballguys.com

**mr. leisure** · 03-01-18, 12:03 PM

Giants | HC says Eli Manning has 'years' left
New York Giants QB Eli Manning still has 'years' left as a starting quarterback in the NFL, according to head coach Pat Shurmur.

Not so sure about this .

**LT Profits** · 03-02-18, 11:34 AM

Friday Update

Saints | Drew Brees talks begin
New Orleans Saints impending free-agent QB Drew Brees' agent, Tom Condon, opened talks with the Saints on a new contract Thursday, March 1.

Footballguys view: There seems to be no urgency in this matter whatsoever. Why? The Saints feel they are keeping Brees no matter the cost. However, the cost should be much lower than Brees could get on the open market. He'll likely take a lower than market contract so the team has money to spend elsewhere as the Saints are clearly in a Super Bowl window. Head coach Sean Payton said he expects the deal to get done 'sooner rather than later.'

Browns | HC wants Josh Gordon to remain a Brown
Cleveland Browns head coach Hue Jackson said that he wants WR Josh Gordon to remain with the club 'for a long time,' adding that he's been having a 'really good offseason.' Jackson also believes Gordon 'is going to have a great year for us.'

Packers | Aaron Jones pleads no contest
Green Bay Packers RB Aaron Jones pleaded no contest Wednesday, Feb. 28, to one of three charges filed against him stemming from an incident in which he was pulled over for speeding and admitted to having smoked marijuana. The judge accepted his plea to a traffic citation for driving with a controlled substance in his system, while dismissing tickets for speeding and operating without a license. Jones was fined $1,047, had his license suspended for six months and was ordered to undergo an alcohol assessment.

Packers | Davante Adams feeling fine
Green Bay Packers WR Davante Adams (concussion) is feeling 'fine' and there is 'no long-term concern,' according to his agent Frank Bauer, after he sustained two concussions during the 2017 season, including one in Week 15 against the Carolina Panthers. Bauer added that Adams has been cleared by 'multiple neurologists' and that he 'could have played in at least one of the final two regular-season games.'

Lions | Detroit likely won't tender Zach Zenner
Detroit Lions RB Zach Zenner likely won't be tendered a contract offer from the team. However, it's possible that once he hits the open market, the club could choose to re-sign him and have him compete for backup spot.

Ravens | Ravens open to reunion with Torrey Smith?
The Baltimore Ravens' shopping for a wide receiver would be 'very likely' to include Philadelphia Eagles WR Torrey Smith, if his option is declined by the club. A reunion between the two sides is being considered a 'very real possibility.'

Bears | Mitchell Trubisky 'obsessed with being great
Chicago Bears QB Mitchell Trubisky is 'obsessed with being great,' according to general manager Ryan Pace, who also mentioned at the NFL Scouting Combine Wednesday, Feb. 28, that Trubisky is a 'natural leader' and that he's 'very passionate about this.'

Bears | Bears a potential suitor for Jarvis Landry
Updating previous reports, the Chicago Bears are among the teams that have emerged as a possible landing spot for Miami Dolphins WR Jarvis Landry.

Broncos | Broncos 'all-in' for Kirk Cousins
Washington Redskins impending free-agent QB Kirk Cousins has become an 'all-in' target for the Denver Broncos when free agency kicks off on Wednesday, March 14, according to two sources familiar with the club's free agency plans. Additionally, those sources mentioned that the Broncos have 'examined scenarios' to potentially open up between $40 million and $50 million in cap space for this offseason.

Jets | NYJ to talk with Austin Seferian-Jenkins
New York Jets impending free-agent TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins is scheduled to meet with the Jets in the upcoming days to talk about a possible contract, according to sources. He is believed to be looking for around $7 million per season in his next contract, according to a source.

Dolphins | Jarvis Landry allowed to seek trade
Miami Dolphins WR Jarvis Landry has received permission from the Dolphins to seek and facilitate a trade, according to sources.

Raiders | Marshawn Lynch, Michael Crabtree not safe
Oakland Raiders RB Marshawn Lynch and WR Michael Crabtree are not guaranteed roster spots next season because the team is uncomfortable with their 2018 salaries, according to sources. Lynch is scheduled to make $4 million in salary next season with the chance to make another $4 million in bonuses. Crabtree is scheduled to make $7 million with a chance for $1.05 million in bonuses. The team may look to restructure the contracts.

Patriots | Several teams may pursue Dion Lewis
New England Patriots impending free-agent RB Dion Lewis is expected to receive interest from multiple teams this offseason, according to a source. The New York Jets, Houston Texans, San Francisco 49ers, Oakland Raiders and Indianapolis Colts are among the team that may pursue Lewis.

Giants | Graham Gano a target for Giants?
Carolina Panthers impending free-agent PK Graham Gano is expected to receive interest from the New York Giants if he hits the free-agent market, according to a source.

49ers | Royce Freeman meets with SF
Oregon RB Royce Freeman said he has met with the San Francisco 49ers at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine.

NFL | Derrius Guice meets with New York teams
Louisiana State RB Derrius Guice said he has met with the New York Giants and New York Jets at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine.

Vikings | Laquon Treadwell holding himself back?
Updating a previous report, Minnesota Vikings WR Laquon Treadwell needs to 'get out of his own way,' according to head coach Mike Zimmer. The remark comes a day after Vikings general manager Rick Spielman said Treadwell needs to relax and not press so hard. Zimmer wasn't as diplomatic Thursday, March 1, saying, 'He's a guy that works extremely hard, probably doesn't do things the right way all of the time. We'll be in training camp and he'll run the stadium steps at night, which is not helping him for practice the next day. He thinks he's trying to get better, trying to get better, he's just going about it the wrong way. So he needs to get out of his own way.'

NFL | Nick Chubb performs well at bench press
Georgia RB Nick Chubb completed 29 repetitions on the 225-pound bench press at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine.

NFL | Saquon Barkley shows off strength
Penn State RB Saquon Barkley completed 29 repetitions on the 225-pound bench press at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine.

Eagles | Philly to meet with Mark Walton
Miami (Fla.) RB Mark Walton said he is scheduled to meet with the Philadelphia Eagles at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine.

Footballguys view: Walton is a solid third down back who can catch the ball and likely carry on earlier downs as well. In a thinner draft for the position, he'd go higher, but might slip this year.

Bills | Buffalo to meet with Josh Rosen
Buffalo Bills general manager Brandon Beane said he plans to meet with UCLA QB Josh Rosen during the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine. Beane said Rosen probably will be one of prospects that will have a pre-draft visit with the Bills.

Footballguys view: Rosen's perceived vale has dropped a tad due to muttering about durability and desire. The desire thing is a bit much, but questions of health and even production are worth a discussion. The Bills will work hard to get to know the former Bruin so they can decide about his attitude. If he slips to them, it could be a steal.

Broncos | Denver has met with Ronald Jones
Southern California RB Ronald Jones has already talked to the Denver Broncos at the NFL combine.

Footballguys view: Jones is a solid back who did a lot of good things at USC. He can gash a defensive line, has good explosion and last season saw him play much more aggressively. He has big play ability and more teams than the Broncos will take a close look at him.

Eagles | Philly meeting with Bo Scarbrough
Alabama RB Bo Scarbrough has a formal interview scheduled with the Philadelphia Eagles Thursday, March 1.

Footballguys view: He doesn't have a ton of burst off the snap, but when he finally gets to full speed, Scarbrough is hard to stop. His style brings up some durability worries, but in today's committee world, he could be a big part of a backfield.

Lions | Royce Freeman met with Lions
Oregon RB Royce Freeman said he has already had a formal meeting with the Detroit Lions.

Footballguys view: The leading rusher in Oregon school history. He carried the ball a ton, which might worry some teams, and he's not terribly fast on film. His size, vision and size will peak the interest of a lot of teams.

Buccaneers | John Kelly met with Buccaneers
Tennessee RB John Kelly said he has already had a formal meeting with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Footballguys view: Kelly is considered to be a little undersized but he runs hard and can catch the ball. More than likely a decent addition as a committee back, the Buccaneers are looking for someone to replace Doug Martin, or at least his space on the roster and in the backfield.

Jets | Orleans Darkwa a target for the Jets
New York Giants impending free-agent RB Orleans Darkwa has drawn interest from the New York Jets, according to a source.
Footballguys view: The Jets are just going to be kicking all the tires on every car on the used car lot. Darkwa had moments as a Giant, so he could be a nice addition for the Jets.

Source: footballguys.com

**LT Profits** · 03-03-18, 11:32 AM

Saturday Update

Browns | Baker Mayfield wants to save Cleveland
Oklahoma QB Baker Mayfield said Friday, March 2, at the NFL Scouting Combine that he believes he can be the answer for the Cleveland Browns at quarterback. 'I think if anybody's going to turn that franchise it would be me,'' Mayfield said. 'I think they just need one guy, a quarterback to make that difference.''

Bills | LeSean McCoy still the focal point
Buffalo Bills RB LeSean McCoy will be a 'big part' of the offense in 2018, according to general manager Brandon Beane.

Lions | Ameer Abdullah must produce
Detroit Lions RB Ameer Abdullah has 'three-down value,' according to general manager Bob Quinn, but Quinn said he will have to perform well this offseason to 'prove himself' to the new coaching staff.

NFL | Sam Darnold won't change motion
Southern California QB Sam Darnold said he has no plans to change his throwing motion. 'I'm not trying to change my throwing motion at all,' Darnold said. 'I think I get the ball off pretty quick. There is kind of a wind-up, but I think I get it off quick and that's what matters.'

Ravens | Baltimore looking at quarterbacks
The Baltimore Ravens are doing 'considerable work' on the quarterbacks in the 2018 NFL Draft, according to Jason La Canfora of CBSSports.com, and La Canfora believes the Ravens could spend an early-round pick on a potential successor for QB Joe Flacco.

Titans | Jarvis Landry eyeing Tennessee?
Miami Dolphins WR Jarvis Landry has the Tennessee Titans on his list of preferred destinations as he seeks a trade, but the Titans have not engaged the Dolphins in any trade discussions, according to an NFL source.

NFL | Saquon Barkley has met with several teams
Penn State RB Saquon Barkley said he has met with the New York Giants, Denver Broncos, New York Jets, Indianapolis Colts, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, San Francisco 49ers and Cleveland Browns at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Colts | Indy talks with Courtland Sutton
Southern Methodist WR Courtland Sutton said he has met with the Indianapolis Colts at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Steelers | PIT meets with several TE prospects Wisconsin TE Troy Fumagalli, TE Dallas Goedert, TE Durham Smythe and TE Mike Gesicki have all met with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Patriots | New England would like Dion Lewis back
New England Patriots impending free-agent RB Dion Lewis is a player that the Patriots would like to re-sign this offseason, but Lewis is expected to receive interest from multiple teams in free agency, according to a source.

NFL | Ryan Nall shows well in combine drills
Oregon State RB Ryan Nall posted a time of 11.57 seconds in the 60-yard shuttle at the NFL Scouting Combine on Friday, March 2. That was second among all running backs. He also finished with 4.58 seconds in the 40-yard dash and 15 reps of 225 pounds in the bench press. His vertical jump was measured at 33.0 inches, and his broad jump was 122.0 inches. He posted times of 6.95 seconds in the three-cone drill, 4.16 seconds in the 20-yard shuttle and 11.57 seconds in the 60-yard shuttle. His 20-yard shuttle was also tied for third among all backs.

NFL | Roc Thomas solid in broad jump
Jacksonville State RB Roc Thomas posted a 4.56-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine on Friday, March 2. He also had 16 reps of 225 pounds while posting a vertical jump of 35.5 inches and a broad jump of 125.0 inches. His broad jump distance ranked fourth among the running backs.

Footballguys view: Thomas transferred from Auburn to Jacksonville State and he certainly has the talent to be a lead back in the pros. At this time, Thomas is considered a third-round pick in the 2018 NFL draft.

NFL | Injury holds Ronald Jones back
Updating a previous report, Southern California RB Ronald Jones (hamstring) took part in just two drills at the NFL Scouting Combine on Friday, March 2, after suffering a strained right hamstring. He recorded a time of 4.65 seconds in the 40-yard dash and a vertical jump of 36.5 inches before departing.

Footballguys view: It's an unfortunate injury for Jones. He's seen as one of the most explosive backs in this draft class and regularly draws comparisons to Jamaal Charles. Jones will be able to get it done at USC's pro day.

NFL | Derrius Guice fast in 40-yard dash
Louisiana State RB Derrius Guice ran the 40-yard dash in 4.49 seconds at the NFL Scouting Combine on Friday, March 2. He also posted 15 reps of 225 pounds in the bench press while recording a vertical jump of 31.5 inches. His dash time ranked fifth among all running backs.

Eagles | Lamar Jackson meets with Philly
Louisville QB Lamar Jackson said he has met with the Philadelphia Eagles at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Bills | Buffalo meets with Lamar Jackson
Louisville QB Lamar Jackson said he has met with the Buffalo Bills at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Giants | NYG talks with Lamar Jackson
Louisville QB Lamar Jackson said he has met with the New York Giants at the NFL Scouting Combine.

NFL | Lamar Jackson not being considered as WR
Louisville QB Lamar Jackson said no teams have asked him to work out as a wide receiver at the NFL Scouting Combine. He said he is a quarterback and not a receiver.

NFL | Nick Chubb runs 40 in 4.52 seconds
Georgia RB Nick Chubb posted a 40-yard dash time of 4.52 seconds while recording 29 reps of 225 pounds in the bench press, a 38 1/2-inch vertical jump and a 128.0-inch broad jump at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis on Friday, March 2. Chubb tied Penn State's Saquon Barkley with the most reps in the bench press at the running back position, his broad jump was second among RBs and his vert was tied for fourth best.

NFL | Kalen Ballage shows off at combine
Arizona State RB Kalen Ballage blazed a 4.46-second time in the 40-yard dash Friday, March 2 - tied for the third-best time among all running backs at the NFL Combine. Ballage also finished in a tie for fifth among running backs in the broad jump (122 inches).

NFL | Bo Scarbrough displays eye-popping explosion
University of Alabama RB Bo Scarbrough ran a 4.52-second time in the 40-yard dash Friday, March 2 - tied for the sixth-best time among all running backs at the NFL Combine. He saved his most impressive performances for the vertical jump and broad jump, posting 40 inches in the former (tied for second among backs) and 129 inches in the later (best among backs).

NFL | Saquon Barkley continues to impress
Penn State RB Saquon Barkley blazed an official 4.40-second time in the 40-yard dash Friday, March 2 - the second-best time among all running backs at the NFL Combine. Barkley recorded a position-best 41-inch vertical jump earlier in the day and 29 reps of 225 pounds on the bench press Thursday, March 1.

Chargers | LA Chargers met with Mason Rudolph
Oklahoma State QB Mason Rudolph acknowledged talking with the Los Angeles Chargers at the Senior Bowl in January and said he also worked out with Chargers QB Philip Rivers 'a few weeks ago,' according to ESPN's Eric D. Williams.

Source: footballguys.com

**mr. leisure** · 03-03-18, 02:28 PM

Browns | Baker Mayfield wants to save Cleveland

Good luck with that !

**Otters27** · 03-04-18, 12:24 AM

Rooting for LAmar Jackson. Hope he can put some wieght on.

**mr. leisure** · 03-04-18, 10:58 AM

Originally posted by Otters27

Rooting for LAmar Jackson. Hope he can put some wieght on.

Needs too, he would be another RG3 if he gets out there .

**LT Profits** · 03-04-18, 01:22 PM

Sunday Update

Jets | Christian Hackenberg's status uncertain
New York Jets QB Christian Hackenberg's status with the team likely will depend on what the team does at quarterback during free agency.

Vikings | Some teams see Teddy Bridgewater as starter
Minnesota Vikings impending free-agent QB Teddy Bridgewater is receiving interest from some teams that consider him a potential starting quarterback.

Steelers | No major progress in Le'Veon Bell talks
Pittsburgh Steelers impending free-agent RB Le'Veon Bell has not made major progress in his contract extension talks with the Steelers. The team is prepared to place the franchise tag on Bell, but general manager Kevin Colbert hopes to reach a deal by the March 6 tag deadline.

Eagles | 16 teams interested in Trey Burton
Philadelphia Eagles impending free-agent TE Trey Burton had 16 NFL teams check in on his status this week. He is not expected to return to the team as they deal with salary cap considerations.

NFL | Josh Rosen sloppy in drills
UCLA QB Josh Rosen struggled with accuracy and 'failed to play up to expectations' during the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine Saturday, March 3, according to Bucky Brooks of NFL.com.

NFL | Antonio Callaway delivers Saturday
Florida WR Antonio Callaway ran the 40-yard dash in 4.41 seconds and showed 'exceptional quickness' at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine, according to Bucky Brooks of NFL.com, and Brooks believes some evaluators view Callaway as a WR1 for an offense.

NFL | Josh Allen impresses Saturday
Wyoming QB Josh Allen was the 'best passer on the field' at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine Saturday, March 3, according to the scouts that Bucky Brooks of NFL.com spoke with.

Cowboys | Cooper Rush to remain backup
Dallas Cowboys QB Cooper Rush has developed well, according to owner Jerry Jones, and Jones said there are no plans to add a veteran this offseason.

NFL | Allen Lazard shows well at combine
Iowa State WR Allen Lazard ran the 40-yard dash in 4.55 second and posted a 38-inch vertical jump and a 122-inch broad jump at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine.

Footballguys view: Lazard showed more explosiveness and speed than expected to try to separate from a deep class of big receivers who can win the ball in the air.

Link to story

NFL | Auden Tate not a burner
Florida State WR Auden Tate posted a 40-yard dash of 4.68 seconds at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine.

Footballguys view: This will only inspire more Devin Funchess comparisons for Tate, who wins with length more than speed.

Dolphins | Jarvis Landry to sign tag
Miami Dolphins WR Jarvis Landry has informed the team that he will be signing his franchise tag, according to a source.

Footballguys view: The Dolphins are in a tight cap situation and might have to make room by releasing Ndamukong Suh if they don't get Landry traded soon. This will be a suspenseful situation to watch, with Landry still more likely than not ending up on another team for the 2018 season, the question is which team will give a pick and make the slot receiver one of the highest paid receivers in the league.

Packers | Aaron Rodgers deal on hold?
Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers' contract extension is unlikely to be completed until after Washington Redskins impending free-agent Kirk Cousins signs his new deal, according to Charles Robinson of Yahoo! Sports.

Footballguys view: Rodgers deserves to be the highest paid player in the game, and by waiting for the Cousins numbers, he will insure that happens - for a little bit at least.

Dolphins | Miami eyeing Derrius Guice?
The Miami Dolphins like Louisiana State RB Derrius Guice 'a lot,' according to Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald.

Footballguys view: The Dolphins want to add a strong inside runner to keep Kenyan Drake in a 1A role in the backfield. If it's not Guice, it could be a free agent back like Isaiah Crowell or another draft prospect like Nick Chubb or Bo Scarbrough.

NFL | Tyler Conklin does well in combine
Central Michigan TE Tyler Conklin ended up with a 40-yard dash of 4.8 seconds at the NFL Scouting Combine on Saturday, March 3. Conklin also had a vertical leap of 38 inches, and he registered 18 reps of 225 pounds in the bench press while managing a 120-inch broad jump. He also had times of 7.13 seconds in the three-cone drill, 4.23 seconds in the 20-yard shuttle and 11.43 seconds in the 60-yard shuttle. His vertical leap was second best among all tight ends.

Footballguys view: Conklin has a basketball background, which shows in his vertical leap result. He is likely a third-day pick, but could be a primary receiving tight end for his team if he develops well.

NFL | Ian Thomas shows off athleticism
University of Indiana TE Ian Thomas recorded a time of 4.74 seconds in the 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine on Saturday, March 3. He also had a broad jump of 123 inches, while posting 7.15 seconds in three-cone drill and 4.2 seconds in the 20-yard shuttle. He also had a 36-inch vertical leap, third-best among all tight ends.

Footballguys view: Thomas's all-around physical package will project for more production and growth in upcoming years. He won't be one of the top 2-3 tight ends drafted but could be one of the best at his peak.

NFL | Mixed results for Hayden Hurst in combine
South Carolina TE Hayden Hurst ran the 40-yard dash in 4.67 seconds at the NFL Scouting Combine on Saturday, March 3. He was also able to record a broad jump of 120 inches, while checking in with a time of 7.19 seconds in the three-cone drill, 4.37 seconds in the 20-yard shuttle and 12.15 seconds in the 60-yard shuttle.

Footballguys view: Hurst was strong across the board and measured him big enough to not be pigeonholed into a "move tight end" role. He could be a second-day pick.

Jets | Baker Mayfield to meet with Jets
Oklahoma QB Baker Mayfield is scheduled to have a pre-draft visit with the New York Jets.

NFL | Mike Gesicki runs fast in 40-yard dash
Penn State TE Mike Gesicki posted a 40-yard dash time of 4.54 seconds at the NFL Scouting Combine on Saturday, March 3, and a 41.5-inch vertical leap. Both his dash and vert were best among all tight ends. He also posted 22 reps of 225 pounds in the bench press, while turning in a broad jump of 129 inches, and a three-cone drill time of 6.76 seconds. He also posted a 20-yard shuttle time of 4.1 seconds, and 60-yard shuttle time of 11.33 seconds.

Footballguys view: Only Vernon Davis was better than Gesicki historically among tight ends at the combine. He seems like a sure second-round pick on the strength of this performance, and he will be drafted for his receiving ability more than his blocking, so we'll take notice in fantasy leagues.

Cowboys | Owner expects Dez Bryant back
Dallas owner/general manager Jerry Jones said he expects WR Dez Bryant to be with the team next season as things stand now. Jones believes he and Bryant will have productive talks about his contract status this offseason.

Footballguys view: This could be playing out as a power struggle between Jones and the football operations minds in Dallas. Most of the buzz coming from members of the Cowboys organization other than Jones has been more non-committal. It is still very much up in the air whether Bryant is a Cowboy next season.

NFL | Cedrick Wilson uninspiring at combine
Boise State WR Cedrick Wilson (6-foot-2, 197 pounds) ran a 4.55-second 40-yard dash Saturday, March 3, at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine. He lifted only nine reps on the 225-pound bench press, reaching 37 inches (8th best) in the vertical jump and 10-foot-1 in the broad jump.

Footballguys view: Wilson showed deep threat ability on tape, but didn't light up the 40. He is blending into a large group of receivers who project as #2 starters or role players and might last into the second day. His father was also an NFL receiver.

NFL | Dylan Cantrell posts strong numbers
Texas Tech WR Dylan Cantrell (6-foot-3, 226 pounds) ran a 4.59-second 40-yard dash Saturday, March 3, at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine. He lifted 18 reps (tied for 7th best) on the 225-pound bench press, reaching 38 1/2 inches (3rd best) in the vertical jump and 10-foot-10 (2nd best) in the broad jump.

Footballguys view: Cantrell was a physical freak outside of the 40 yard dash, which was still good for his size. He fits as a big slot/H-back with his top-end blocking ability, and modern NFL offenses will have a place for him. He might have climbed into the third day with this performance.

Broncos | Denver meeting with top QB prospects
Oklahoma QB Baker Mayfield and Wyoming QB Josh Allen met with the Denver Broncos at the NFL Scouting Combine Friday, March 2. The team will also hold formal meetings with Southern California QB Sam Darnold, UCLA QB Josh Rosen, Oklahoma State QB Mason Rudolph, Louisville QB Lamar Jackson and Washington State QB Luke Falk.

Bears | Jordan Howard not available
Chicago Bears RB Jordan Howard is not available in a trade, according to sources.

Dolphins | Jarvis Landry unlikely to play on tag
Miami Dolphins WR Jarvis Landry said he likely will not play on the one-year franchise tender next season and wants a long-term deal.

Ravens | Baltimore meets with two pass catchers
Maryland WR D.J. Moore and Indiana TE Ian Thomas have met with the Baltimore Ravens this week at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Source: footballguys.com

**Otters27** · 03-05-18, 07:50 AM

John Elway and the Broncos are working hard to make sure they get the right QB