NFL Player News - Week of 3/19/18

**Otters27** · 03-19-18, 10:25 AM

Eagles Carson Wentz and Nick Foles is like 49ers with Montana, Young

**Otters27** · 03-19-18, 11:44 PM

McManus is robotic. Guy puts it down the middle

**LT Profits** · 03-20-18, 08:36 AM

Tuesday Update

NFL | Saquon Barkley to do RB drills at Pro Day
Penn State RB Saquon Barkley will do running back skill drills at his Pro Day Tuesday, March 20, but he won't bench press or run the 40-yard dash.

Falcons | Matt Ryan to ink extension this week?
Atlanta Falcons QB Matt Ryan is 'likely' to sign a contract extension this week that is 'expected to pay him near $30 million per season,' according to Jeff Schultz of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Seahawks | C.J. Prosise still in team's plans?
Seattle Seahawks general manager John Schneider recently mentioned that the club 'needs' RB C.J. Prosise 'to be a reliable dude,' adding that he's an 'extremely talented guy.'

Eagles | Carson Wentz throwing at team facility
Philadelphia Eagles QB Carson Wentz (knee) posted video of himself throwing inside the team's practice facility Monday, March 19, as he 'appears to be making some significant strides' in his rehab from a torn ACL and LCL. He's still aiming to return for the season opener.

Cowboys | Cowboys to host two free-agent WRs
Free-agent WRs Dontrelle Inman (Bears) and Justin Hunter (Steelers) are scheduled to visit the Dallas Cowboys this week.

Saints | Josh Huff suspended two games
New Orleans Saints WR Josh Huff has been suspended the first two games of next season without pay for violating the league's substance abuse policy and personal conduct policy. This stems from his 2016 arrest while he was with the Philadelphia Eagles on charges of DUI, possession of marijuana and possession of an undisclosed handgun without a permit. He will be able to participate in all offseason practices and preseason games.

Colts | Indianapolis lands Eric Ebron
Free-agent TE Eric Ebron (Lions) agreed to terms on a two-year contract with the Indianapolis Colts worth a maximum value of $15 million on Monday, March 19.

Dolphins | DeMarco Murray leaves without deal
Free-agent RB DeMarco Murray (Titans) left his visit with the Miami Dolphins without an agreement Monday, March 19.

Footballguys view: The Dolphins are interested in Murray, but they couldn't come together on a deal right now. We'll see what other teams want to bring in the veteran back for a visit.

Chiefs | Kansas City hosts Damien Williams
Free-agent RB Damien Williams (Dolphins) is visiting the Kansas City Chiefs Monday, March 19.

Footballguys view: The Chiefs have a big group of backs already on the roster, but they are still looking for help/competition at the position.

Panthers | Jarius Wright contract details
Updating a previous report, Carolina Panthers WR Jarius Wright is signing to a two-year deal with a $2 million signing bonus. The first year is worth up to $3.5 million with incentives.

Giants | Cody Latimer signs with Giants
Free-agent WR Cody Latimer (Broncos) signed with the New York Giants Monday, March 19. Terms of the contract were not disclosed.

Footballguys view: A second-round pick in the 2014 NFL draft, Latimer never produced much as a receiver with the Broncos. He did become a great special teams player in Denver, and that's at least what he'll be for the Giants. Latimer is big, strong and a fine run blocker. He can make crazy catches in practice but has never been able to transition practice success over to the playing field.

NFL | Sam Darnold to throw despite possible rain
Southern California QB Sam Darnold still plans to throw at his Pro Day Wednesday, March 21, even though it is expected to rain during the workout.
Footballguys view: Darnold did not throw at the Scouting Combine in February, so the only time he'll get to throw for the entire league is at his pro day. Sure, Darnold will get plenty of private workouts with interested teams but it will be important for him to show well in the elements this week.

Source: footballguys.com

**mr. leisure** · 03-20-18, 11:28 AM

Eagles | Carson Wentz throwing at team facility
Philadelphia Eagles QB Carson Wentz (knee) posted video of himself throwing inside the team's practice facility Monday, March 19, as he 'appears to be making some significant strides' in his rehab from a torn ACL and LCL. He's still aiming to return for the season opener.

That seemed fast like a fast recovery

**mpaschal34** · 03-20-18, 11:29 PM

Ebron....$15M....ridiculous!!!

**LT Profits** · 03-21-18, 09:14 AM

Wednesday Update

Ravens | Willie Snead visiting Ravens
New Orleans Saints restricted free-agent WR Willie Snead is visiting the Baltimore Ravens Wednesday, March 21.

Lions | Luke Willson signs with Lions
Free-agent TE Luke Willson (Seahawks) signed a one-year, $2.5 million deal with the Detroit Lions Wednesday, March 21, according to a source.

Raiders | Marshawn Lynch restructures
Oakland Raiders RB Marshawn Lynch restructured his contract Saturday, March 17, and its base value is worth $5.5 million with $4.5 million guaranteed. He can earn up to $9.25 million with incentives.

Footballguys view: The Raiders are going to use a RBBC this year under OC Greg Olson. Doug Martin was brought in this offseason, and he should tag team with Lynch to give the Raiders a steady rushing attack.

Bills | Zay Jones arrested
Buffalo Bills WR Zay Jones was arrested on suspicion of felony vandalism Monday, March 19, after officers responded at an apartment building in downtown Los Angeles, a police spokesperson confirmed to USA TODAY Sports.

Footballguys view: Things don't look good for Jones after TMZ Sports obtained a video that shows him buck naked fighting with his brother and allegedly trying to jump from the window. There's a broken window in the room that was covered with what is likely Jones blood.

Cowboys | Allen Hurns set to meet with Dallas
Updating a previous report, free-agent WR Allen Hurns (Jaguars) will meet with the Dallas Cowboys on Wednesday, March 21. Hurns had planned on visiting the New York Jets on Wednesday but changed his mind with a snowstorm expected to hit New York.

Footballguys view: That didn't take long. Hurns is a quality no2 WR who could fit in nicely with the Cowboys. If added, he'd be in line to start opposite Dez Bryant. Hurns would give Dak Prescott another quality weapon to throw to.

Giants | NY Giants take a look at Josh Rosen
UCLA QB Josh Rosen worked out for the New York Giants as well as the Cleveland Browns on Tuesday, March 20.

Footballguys view: Rosen is an option for the Giants with the no2 overall pick. He's the purest passer in this draft class, but durability and attitude concerns cloud his NFL potential. Rosen has an ego...and that's not a bad thing...but he has to prove to teams that he's going to be coachable. He'd have to prove to the Giants a willingness to sit behind Eli Manning for a year or so.

NFL | Several teams interested in Allen Hurns
Free-agent WR Allen Hurns (Jaguars) said he has received interest from the Chicago Bears, Buffalo Bills, New Orleans Saints, Houston Texans, New York Jets, Oakland Raiders and Carolina Panthers.

Footballguys view: No surprise here. Hurns is a quality wide receiver and can be a reliable target for any quarterback that gets to throw to him.

NFL | Saquon Barkley does not work out
Updating a previous report, Penn State RB Saquon Barkley said he planned to work out at his Pro Day Tuesday, March 20, but decided against it when he found out none of the NFL running backs coaches were in attendance.

Footballguys view: Barkley is the best back in this class, so not working out at his pro day is not a big deal. The film shows everything teams need to see. Barkley said he probably will meet with teams and may participate in one or two private workouts.

Browns | Cleveland to work out two QB prospects
Southern California QB Sam Darnold and Wyoming QB Josh Allen are scheduled to participate in private workouts with the Cleveland Browns this week, according to sources. The Browns are also expected to conduct private workouts with UCLA QB Josh Rosen and Oklahoma QB Baker Mayfield.

Footballguys view: Both Darnold and Allen have work to do before they're ready for prime time. Allen has worked diligently on his accuracy in the pre-draft process. He'll need to get better in that aspect (56.0 percent passer at Wyoming) in order to play up to his potential as a pro. Darnold turns the ball over a lot. There are times when he looks like Ben Roethlisberger then there are times he looks like Brandon Weeden. The 20-year old prospect needs better consistency to shine in the NFL.

Jets | Allen Hurns will visit Jets
Free-agent WR Allen Hurns (Jaguars) has a visit scheduled with the New York Jets Wednesday, March 21, according to a source.

Footballguys view: The Jets have 13 wide receivers on the roster right now, but hardly any have the experience level of Hurns. He'd bring more than a veteran presence as
Hurns would likely start for the Jets if added to the jam-packed WR corps.

Lions | Levine Toilolo visits Detroit
Free-agent TE Levine Toilolo (Falcons) visited the Detroit Lions Tuesday, March 20, according to a source.

Titans | Tennessee meets with Blaine Gabbert
Free-agent QB Blaine Gabbert (Cardinals) recently met with the Tennessee Titans, according to a source.

Patriots | DaeSean Hamilton to talk with NE
Penn State WR DaeSean Hamilton is scheduled to meet with New England Patriots wide receivers coach Chad O'Shea Wednesday, March 21.

Footballguys view: Hamilton is a sleeper wide receiver in this draft class. He can run routes crisply and has the burst to get open once he makes his break. Hamilton is dangerous after the catch and would fit what the Patriots want at the WR position.

Jaguars | Lots more cap space for Jaguars
The release of free-agents WR Allen Hurns (Jaguars) and TE Marcedes Lewis (Jaguars) gave the Jacksonville Jaguars $10.5 million more in salary cap space.

Footballguys view: The Jaguars had their plans change in free agency. It was a surprise they picked up the option for Lewis in February then are letting him go in March. That happened because they acquired Austin Seferian-Jenkins and Niles Paul. These moves save money, but the biggest wave of free agency is done. They currently have $12.5 million in cap space according to OverTheCap.com.

Saints | Eric Decker not meeting with Saints
Free-agent WR Eric Decker (Titans) is not visiting the New Orleans Saints Tuesday, March 20. It had been reported elsewhere that Decker was on his way to visit New Orleans.

Footballguys view: Sean Payton was a bit nasty on Twitter when he shot down the report. Decker is making the rounds after getting let go by the Titans. The Saints would have been an interesting fit, but it sounds like the team is not going to bring him in for a visit at this time.

Vikings | Kai Forbath re-signs
Free-agent PK Kai Forbath (Vikings) is re-signing to an undisclosed deal with the Minnesota Vikings Tuesday, March 20, according to a source.

Source: footballguys.com

**Otters27** · 03-21-18, 10:08 AM

Zay Jones. What was he on. These guys need to calm down.

**mr. leisure** · 03-21-18, 11:20 AM

Footballguys view: Things don't look good for Jones after TMZ Sports obtained a video that shows him buck naked fighting with his brother and allegedly trying to jump from the window. There's a broken window in the room that was covered with what is likely Jones blood.

Purely guessing , but that sounds like AngelDust .

**LT Profits** · 03-22-18, 09:14 AM

Thursday Update

Seahawks | Mike Davis returns to Seattle
Free-agent RB Mike Davis (Seahawks) agreed to a one-year deal with the Seattle Seahawks Thursday, March 22. Financial terms weren't disclosed.

Dolphins | Frank Gore visiting Dolphins
Free-agent RB Frank Gore (Colts) is visiting the Miami Dolphins Thursday, March 22.

Chiefs | Kendall Wright visiting Chiefs
Free-agent WR Kendall Wright (Bears) is visiting the Kansas City Chiefs Thursday, March 22.

Falcons | Matt Ryan extension talks hit 'snag'
Atlanta Falcons QB Matt Ryan's talks with the club concerning a contract extension 'appear to have hit a snag,' with general manager Thomas Dimitroff saying he couldn't put a timetable on it. He added he doesn't know how close the two sides are but that 'we talk about it and it seems like things are right around the corner.'

NFL | 'Overwhelming sense' Sam Darnold goes No. 1
USC QB Sam Darnold said he does not know the plans of either the Cleveland Browns or New York Giants after meeting with both clubs, but the 'overwhelming sense' is that he is drafted with the No. 1 overall draft pick by the Browns, according to Jeff Darlington of ESPN.com.

NFL | Baker Mayfield to visit with New York teams
Oklahoma QB Baker Mayfield is scheduled have official visits with the New York Giants and New York Jets in April.

Dolphins | Miami schedules visit with Baker Mayfield
Oklahoma QB Baker Mayfield is scheduled have an official visit with the Miami Dolphins in April.

Colts | Indy brings back Christine Michael
Free-agent RB Christine Michael (Colts) re-signed with the Indianapolis Colts Wednesday, March 21. Terms of the contract were not disclosed.

NFL | Terrelle Pryor down to two teams?
Free-agent WR Terrelle Pryor (Redskins) appears to be deciding between the Seattle Seahawks and New York Jets at this point, in the opinion of Cleveland Plain Dealer's Mary Kay Cabot.

Footballguys view: Pryor struggled in his one season with Washington. He was a 1,000-yard receiver in 2016, but only snared 20 passes for 240 yards and one touchdown in 2017. Seattle could use help at the position after losing Paul Richardson in free agency. The Jets could use more experience in their WR corps which Pryor would bring.

Browns | CLE to work out Baker Mayfield Thursday
Oklahoma QB Baker Mayfield is scheduled to participate in a private workout with the Cleveland Browns Thursday, March 22.

Footballguys view: The Browns have the no1 and no4 overall picks in the 2018 NFL draft. The interest in Mayfield has to be there due to the need at the position. The Browns could take Mayfield first overall but Mayfield may not be on the board when the Browns are up for the fourth pick.

Bills | Buffalo works out Baker Mayfield
Oklahoma QB Baker Mayfield participated in a private workout with the Buffalo Bills Monday, March 19.

Footballguys view: The Bills have moved up in the first round and now sit at 12th overall. That may not be high enough for Mayfield. If the Bills fall in love with the Heisman Trophy winning quarterback, they'd have to move up...perhaps into the top five.

Jets | Teddy Bridgewater unsure about workouts
New York Jets QB Teddy Bridgewater (knee) will not say if he will be healthy enough to participate in offseason workouts.

Footballguys view: Bridgewater has a one-year deal with the Jets. He's going to be competing for a spot on the depth chart and may begin the season as a reserve behind Josh McCown.

Jets | Josh Rosen to work out for Jets
UCLA QB Josh Rosen is scheduled to participate in a private workout with the New York Jets prior to the 2018 NFL Draft.

Footballguys view: Rosen has the alpha male attitude that teams need at the quarterback position. So long as he's healthy and responds to coaching, Rosen has incredible upside as a passer. The Jets have the no3 pick in the 2018 NFL draft, but Rosen may not be on the board at that time.

Bills | Buffalo worked out Josh Rosen
UCLA QB Josh Rosen participated in a private workout with the Buffalo Bills Sunday, March 18, according to sources.

Footballguys view: There are some who think Rosen will fall in the 2018 NFL draft. He's arguably the best pure passer of any of the top QBs in this class. However, perceived attitude issues (and a concern about health) could be too much for teams to take on with a premium pick.

Ravens | Cameron Meredith to visit Ravens
Chicago Bears restricted free-agent WR Cameron Meredith will meet with the Baltimore Ravens Thursday, March 22.

NFL | Sam Darnold impresses at pro day
USC QB Sam Darnold threw the ball well despite rainy conditions at his pro day Wednesday, March 21. Darnold said he thought he showed he could protect the ball well in the pocket given the circumstances. The candidate for the No. 1 overall pick threw for the first time in front of numerous NFL scouts and executives after not throwing at the NFL combine earlier this month.
Footballguys view: Darnold did not throw at the combine, but he was able to work through the rain on Wednesday. Turnovers and lack of consistency are the trouble spots for Darnold entering the pros. If Darnold can clean up his mechanics and protect the ball better, his fumbles should go down drastically. Darnold also needs to stay mechanically sound when moving in the pocket. That should help him throw with better consistency.

Source: footballguys.com

**mr. leisure** · 03-22-18, 10:37 AM

Giants trade Jason Pierre-Paul to Buccaneers

Adam Schefter of ESPN first reported the move, which features Tampa Bay giving up a third-round pick (No. 69 overall) and the teams swapping fourth-round picks.

**ApricotSinner32** · 03-22-18, 06:53 PM

Originally posted by mr. leisure

Giants trade Jason Pierre-Paul to Buccaneers

Adam Schefter of ESPN first reported the move, which features Tampa Bay giving up a third-round pick (No. 69 overall) and the teams swapping fourth-round picks.

**mpaschal34** · 03-22-18, 11:12 PM

Mayfield is NOT a first round pick. Someone will regret that pick in a few years.

**LT Profits** · 03-23-18, 06:22 AM

Friday Update

A look at the biggest news of the past week and why it matters for fantasy teams.

AFC

Baltimore

The Ravens signed WR Michael Crabtree (Oakland) to a three-year, 21 million dollar deal.
Why It Matters: Crabtree took a nosedive in receptions and yardage last year, but was still a strong red zone receiver and instantly becomes the Ravens #1 receiver. His value is up on the strange turn of events that was set in motion by the Packers releasing Jordy Nelson. The Raiders saw Nelson as more worthy of the #2 wide receiver role and pay, and dropped Crabtree for him. The Ravens, meanwhile had signed Ryan Grant a four-year deal worth nearly 30 million dollars, but he failed his physical (curiously only after Crabtree was released). Baltimore gets a much better investment for their money and fantasy players get a Ravens receiver who is much more likely to create production out of the ample opportunity in their pass offense.

Buffalo

WR Zay Jones was arrested on Monday, March 19 and charged with felony vandalism.
Why It Matters: Jones had a chance to seize a role as a rookie, but injuries and inconsistency slowed his momentum. Now this incident calls into question his condition beyond how it affects his football career. The Bills depth chart at wide receiver is basically Kelvin Benjamin and line up with two tight ends and a fullback. Charles Clay and LeSean McCoy will get a ton of targets, albeit from an underwhelming or rookie quarterback.

Cincinnati

Bengals LB Vontaze Burfict was suspended for four games by the NFL for violating the league’s performance-enhancing drug policy.
Why It Matters: The Bengals signed former Bills LB Preston Brown and could save six million under the cap with a three million dead cap hit if they release Burfict. It’s not impossible that they move on Burfict after this latest suspension. The Raiders were rumored to be attempting to trade for him and could get him without the cost of draft capital or a negative in the compensatory pick formula.

Cleveland

ESPN’s Jeff Darlington and Bucky Brooks and Daniel Jeremiah from the NFL Network all indicated that USC quarterback Sam Darnold is very likely to go #1 to the Browns.
Why It Matters: The Browns have conducted their offseason as if a quarterback was in their draft plans, and it only makes sense considering the depth at the top of this class, having a second pick in the top four to get a top non-quarterback, and the team passing on Carson Wentz and Deshaun Watson the last two years only to see them have spectacular early-career success. Darnold is probably the safest of the top five quarterbacks, and his ceiling is still among the highest being only 20 years old and still displaying the loose mechanics of youth that can lead to errors.

Houston

The Texans signed DB Tyrann Mathieu (Arizona) to a one-year deal worth seven million dollars.
Why It Matters: Mathieu is a getting a far cry from the 18.75 million Arizona would have had to pay him over the next two years if he had stayed on their roster, but Mathieu is only 25 and can get paid that and more next year on the free agent market if he plays up to his previous levels of brilliance. He instantly becomes the best defensive back in a group that has never really hit its stride despite a big investment at cornerback. If the front seven can be as disruptive as they were at their recent peaks, Mathieu should make a lot of plays out of the chaos.

Indianapolis

The Colts traded the #3 pick in the draft to the New York Jets for #6, #37, #49 and a 2019 second-round pick.
Why It Matters: GM Chris Ballard had to do this. The Colts have their quarterback (pending the continued recovery of his throwing shoulder of course) and got to take numerous resources from a team with quarterback hunger while preserving the certainty of getting a top 3-4 non-quarterback on their board - quite possibly even getting the player they would have taken at #3 anyway. Now Ballard could decide to trade down again if only two or three quarterbacks go before their #6 pick and another quarterback-needy team decides to commit to a 2018 draft prospect. The Colts have so many holes on their roster and now they have three extra second-round picks over the next three years to hand-pick players for their new offense and defense.

The Colts released DT Jonathan Hankins.
Why It Matters: Hankins helped a terrible run defense level off at times in 2017, but apparently his fit in new defensive Matt Eberflus scheme made him expendable despite the Colts still carrying a lot of cap room at this juncture in free agency. He’ll surely find a new home and probably get paid something near the 8.468 million dollars he was going to be due on the Colts roster this year. He has been linked to the Lions, who have a need at defensive tackle and a new defensive scheme themselves.

The Colts signed TE Eric Ebron (Detroit) to a two-year deal worth up to 15 million dollars.
Why It Matters: Ebron got a solid monetary commitment from the Colts, who need his receiving ability in the middle of the field despite the presence of Jack Doyle at tight end because they have only one proven wide receiver. Andrew Luck could support two low-end TE1 producers in Ebron and Doyle if Ebron is consistent, but his value will be capped as long as Doyle is healthy. It’s a decent development for Luck, but Ebron will contribute little to nothing as a run blocker.

The Colts signed WR Ryan Grant (Washington) to a one-year deal worth five million dollars.
Why It Matters: Indianapolis’s doctors didn’t fail Grant medically after the Ravens did, and they got him at a great per year and guaranteed money discount from the seven plus and 14.5 million Grant was getting from Baltimore. He will be a competent #2 at best, but closer the the fourth or fifth option in the pass offense, and like Kamar Aiken last year, no guarantee to be a consistent weekly fantasy factor, although he’s worth monitoring iif Luck returns to form.

Jacksonville

The Jaguars released WR Allen Hurns.
Why It Matters: Donte Moncrief and Marqise Lee both got big guaranteed financial commitments from Jacksonville, and Keelan Cole and Dede Westbrook both entrenched themselves on the depth chart with good rookie seasons. Hurns’ seven and eight million dollar price tags on his age 26/27 and 27/28 seasons isn’t at all exorbitant in this market and based on his previous level of play, and he should get at least 5-6 million dollars this season from his new team and have a chance to earn more in the future. He could gain fantasy value with his release, potentially going from a crowded depth chart on a run-heavy team to a team with a more fantasy friendly depth chart or passing game. The latest word was that the Cowboys, Jets, Browns, and Ravens were among the suitors for Hurns’ services in 2018. If the Cowboys were to release Dez Bryant to sign Hurns, that would be the best fantasy destination for him, with the Ravens also providing instant fantasy opportunity.

The Jaguars signed restricted free agent RB Corey Grant to a one-year, 2.914 million dollar deal.
Why It Matters: Grant was explosive and game-changing whenever the Jaguars gave him a chance to be. They tendered the restricted free agent at a second-round level, guarding him from offer sheets even in a perpetually depressed running back market. Rational management would dictate that Grant’s role grows in 2018 despite the presence of Leonard Fournette and TJ Yeldon. He could be valuable in any games that Fournette misses and provide an occasional Antone Smith-esque best ball return in the meantime.

Los Angeles Chargers

The Chargers signed OL Mike Pouncey to a two-year, 15 million dollar contract.
Why It Matters: The Chargers lost 2017 second-round pick Forrest Lamp before the season began last year. They could have a much improved interior offensive line, giving Melvin Gordon a shot to get out of the sub-four yards per carry doldrums. Pouncey has missed multiple games in four of the last five seasons, likely a big part of the reason Pouncey was relatively cheap on the free agent market.

Miami

The Dolphins signed RB Frank Gore to a one-year deal.
Why It Matters: Gore is still better than his advanced age would suggest, but he’s about as small a threat to Kenyan Drake’s touches as the Dolphins could have added and still addressed the thin depth chart at running back. Drake won’t be getting 85-90% of the snaps and touches like he was late last year, but he can absolutely support a third or fourth-round ADP with Gore spelling him. Gore would only have value if Drake went down, and that’s only if the Dolphins don’t draft a running back this year, to prepare for the future.

New England

The Patriots signed RB Jeremy Hill (Cincinnati).
Why It Matters: Hill only got 150,000 guaranteed on a 1.5 million dollar, one-year deal. He could be a portion of what LeGarrette Blount provided to the running game in recent years and has the size and power at his best to outperform Mike Gillislee and Rex Burkhead in the drive and game-closing role. This is best the destination he could have landed in for fantasy, although he has to win a roster spot and hope the team doesn’t draft a similar back

The Patriots traded a fifth-round pick to Oakland for WR Cordarrelle Patterson and a sixth-round pick.
Why It Matters: Patterson probably won’t generate fantasy value in New England for himself, but the team loves former first-round reclamation projects and he could make the offense and return games more explosive while pushing Malcolm Mitchell, Phillip Dorsett or Kenny Britt off of the roster. The Raiders had to use Patterson a lot while paying him over five million dollars, and took a small draft bump instead carrying him at a 3.25 million dollar price tag this year. He isn’t a lock to make the Patriots roster with a deep group already rostered at wide receiver.

New York Jets

The Jets re-signed CB Morris Claiborne to a one-year, seven million dollar deal.
Why It Matters: With Trumaine Johnson on the other side and safeties Jamal Adams and Marcus Maye on the rise, the Jets have a strong secondary forming, even if their pass rush is among the worst in the league. Claiborne is an underrated player who has been held back by injuries. He could get paid if he plays in 15 games again in 2018. 2017 was the first year that Claiborne played more than 11 games since his rookie year.

The Jets acquired the #3 pick in the draft from the Colts for #6, #37, #49 and a 2019 second-round pick.
Why It Matters: There are at least three and as many as five first-round rated quarterbacks and the Jets now are guaranteed their third-ranked quarterback at worst. They surely have one in mind beyond Sam Darnold, who appears to be the favorite to go #1. If the Giants pass on quarterback and don’t trade down, the Jets could get their #2 ranked quarterback. While three second-round picks is a high price to pay according to traditional pick value charts, those don’t reflect the huge discrepancy between bottom-end starting quarterback pay and rookie deals for top picks, which magnifies the value of hitting on a first-round pick at quarterback. The trade makes sense for the Jets, who didn’t have to part with a first-round pick to make the move, unlike Houston and Kansas City last year.

QB Teddy Bridgewater’s contract with the Jets includes only 500,000 dollars guaranteed.
Why It Matters: Bridgewater isn’t a lock for the opening day roster with the Jets almost certain to take a quarterback at #3 now. While he has the chance to greatly increase his future earnings if Josh McCown gets hurt and he’s the backup ahead of the rookie, he could also be looking for work in Week 1. It appears the league is not ready to buy into the idea that Bridgewater is roughly the same prospect he was before dislocating his knee.

Oakland

The Raiders signed CB Rashaan Melvin (Indianapolis) to a one-year, 6.5 million dollar deal.
Why It Matters: The Raiders were relying on 2017 first-round pick Gareon Conley and not much else to speak of at corner before this signing. Melvin peaked in 2017, but the Colts did not want to retain him despite fielding a bare depth chart at corner, perhaps figuring that he would get paid in an open market despite turning 29 this year. The Raiders got a very reasonable deal and can at least put two credible corners out there now.

RB Marshawn Lynch took a 500,000 dollar pay cut, but is now guaranteed 4.5 million dollars for 2018.
Why It Matters: The signing of Doug Martin cast doubt on Lynch’s 2018 status in the mind of some, but this seems to have cleared up both his status and role for the upcoming season. While he took a small paycut, a large portion of Lynch’s 2018 salary has been guaranteed, which would lock him into a similar role to the one he had last year, with Martin competing for a smaller role/backup spot with DeAndre Washington and Jalen Richard. Lynch is a risk/reward mid-round pick coming off of a year that was better than his season-end stats would indicate.

NFC

Arizona

The Cardinals signed OL Justin Pugh (New York Giants) to a five-year, 45 million dollar deal.
Why It Matters: Sam Bradford is going to open the season as the starter, so the quality of the offensive line takes on increased importance for the Cardinals this year. As long as his back is better after an injury that cost him six games at the end of the season last year, Pugh should upgrade the pass blocking at guard for Arizona.

Carolina

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that the Panthers TE Greg Olsen is committed to playing football in 2018.
Why It Matters: There was some talk that Olsen would return if he got a job as a prime-time game analyst, but that was clarified as a development for the long haul, not 2018. He is still safely in the top 5-6 at tight end in drafts, and Cam Newton will still have one of his top targets to help compensate for a middling at best wide receiver group.

Free agent CB Bashaud Breeland (Washington) failed a physical because of an infection in his foot and his contract with Carolina was voided.
Why It Matters: The Panthers are woefully inexperienced at cornerback and this deal didn’t end up helping the issue. Breeland was a good fit for the defense, but was going be out for months, not days, after a skin graft was called for on his infected foot. The Panthers have to address this heading into a schedule that includes six games against Drew Brees, Jameis Winston, and Matt Ryan, and matchups against Ben Roethlisberger, Matthew Stafford, Russell Wilson, Alex Smith, and maybe Carson Wentz.

Chicago

The Bears signed previously transition tagged CB Kyle Fuller to a four-year, 56 million dollar deal with 18 million guaranteed.
Why It Matters: For only five million more guaranteed than the transition tag, the Bears will retain Fuller this year with a tolerable per year cost over the next three years if Fuller plays up to a top level through his prime years. The tactic of giving him the transition tag bought the Bears more reach over Fuller’s future than if they had given him the franchise tag, which would have scared off potential offer sheets. This also could be GM Ryan Pace’s strategy on tendering WR Cameron Meredith at only original pick level, which would mean that an offer sheet would cost another team nothing if the Bears choose to not match. Meredith is taking visits elsewhere and probably would sign an offer sheet that puts him well under the long term contract terms he would get next year as an unrestricted free agent, which would then allow the Bears to keep Meredith long term, where a second-round tender would have discouraged offers and only assured them one more year of control.

Dallas

The Cowboys signed WR Deonte Thompson (Buffalo) to a one-year, 2.5 million dollar deal.
Why It Matters: The Cowboys have had a disappointing offseason, but Thompson could give the team an underrated addition of speed and stretch the field against defenses that are preoccupied with stopping the run. Thompson won’t have fantasy value of his own, but he could help the offense be more successful.

Detroit

The Lions signed RB LeGarrette Blount to a one-year contract.
Why It Matters: The Lions have been fumbling about for a consistent power presence in the running game, and Blount could provide it in 2018. The team still seems very likely to draft a back early, maybe even LSU’s Derrius Guice in the first round, but for now, Blount has 6-10 touchdown potential.

The Lions signed TE Luke Willson to a one-year, 2.5 million dollar deal.
Why It Matters: Eric Ebron is gone to Indianapolis, and Darren Fells is gone to Cleveland, so there’s plenty of targets up for grabs at tight end for the Lions. Willson probably won’t have fantasy value and will compete with 2017 fourth-rounder Michael Roberts for looks, but he does have an intriguing size/speed combination and will be worth watching in very deep TE premium leagues.

Minnesota

Vikings RB Latavius Murray agreed to a contract restructure.
Why It Matters: Murray gave up 1.5 million in base salary, dropping his 2018 pay to 3.65 million. That’s reasonable for a proven running back to spell your starters and provide a quality backup in case Dalvin Cook goes down again. Murray will only have fantasy relevance this year if Cook misses time.

The Vikings signed DT Sheldon Richardson (Seattle) to a one-year contract worth eight million with another three million available in incentives.
Why It Matters: The Vikings already had the best defense in the NFC, now their defensive tackle rotation gets fresher and more talented. They were a strong scoring defense in 2017 and good against both the pass and run, but perhaps Richardson could help them get more lethal pressure inside and force more turnovers this year.

New York Giants

The Giants acquired a 2018 third-round and fourth-round pick from the Buccaneers for a 2018 fourth-round pick and DE Jason-Pierre Paul.
Why It Matters: The Giants are changing the defensive scheme under new defensive coordinator James Bettcher, so Pierre-Paul’s fit could have been a consideration here. He was due 15 million more in signing bonus money in 2019 and 2020, bringing his cap hits to around 20 million each year. By trading him now, the Giants accelerate that hit to this year and actually save a little under the cap. This gives them another top 75 pick this year, and frees up the cap room to sign Landon Collins and Odell Beckham Jr to long-term deals in 2019. Pierre-Paul is 29 and not the player he used to be, so while he might have earned his salary this year, the Giants decided it was better to move on while they are in rebuilding mode.

Philadelphia

The Eagles released DE Vinny Curry, re-signed LB Nigel Bradham to a five-year, 40 million dollar deal and signed DT Haloti Ngata (Detroit) to a one-year, 2.6 million dollar deal.
Why It Matters: The Eagles were able to bolster the weakest part of their defense by transferring cap space from Curry to Bradham’s new deal, and the addition Ngata will help bolster a run defense that lost Beau Allen. He’ll play fewer snaps and maybe create more impact per snap a la Marcell Dareus in Jacksonville.

The Eagles signed WR Mike Wallace to a one-year contract.
Why It Matters: The Eagles netted some cheap cornerback depth when they sent Torrey Smith to Carolina, and now they got some deep speed to replace Smith’s tactical value in their diverse pass offense. Wallace will probably have as much fantasy relevance as Smith did last year, but he can also help the pass offense stay at the same high level if he can still threaten with his vertical speed after he turns 32 this August.

Seattle

The Seahawks signed TE Ed Dickson (Carolina) to a three-year deal worth up to 14 million dollars, and WR Jaron Brown (Arizona) to a one-year contract.
Why It Matters: The Seahawks have bled good players this offseason, with Jimmy Graham and Paul Richardson gone to greener pastures, and this is the best they could do to replace them. Dickson was at one time an above average physical talent at tight end, but he’s in the autumn of his career and save for a few games last year has never been a fantasy factor. Brown has a size/speed/athleticism combination that has hinted at more after toiling behind an all-world group at wide receiver at Clemson, and could stick as a steady presence outside now two years removed from an ACL tear. Even in a best case scenario, Russell Wilson’s supporting cast has taken a big hit.

The Seahawks re-signed RB Mike Davis to a one-year deal.
Why It Matters: With the state of the Seahawks running game (they did at least sign battleship-sized offensive lineman DJ Fluker this week) and Chris Carson returning from injury, it probably doesn’t matter, but Davis impressed in limited action before getting hurt last year and could be in position for a role again this year.

Tampa Bay

The Buccaneers signed OL Ryan Jensen (Baltimore) to a four-year, 42 million dollar deal.
Why It Matters: The Ravens were pressed into playing Jensen at center last year and he more than came through. That level of play earned him a big payday, and left the Ravens looking for a starting center yet again. Tampa’s line doesn’t have any big holes and could lay the groundwork for a resurgence in the running game if they land a top rookie back in April.

The Buccaneers signed DE Vinny Curry (Philadelphia) to a three-year, 27 million dollar deal and traded a 2018 third-round and fourth-round pick to the Giants for a 2018 fourth-round pick and DE Jason-Pierre Paul.
Why It Matters: DT Gerald McCoy was lamenting the team’s inability to improve the edge rush via free agency or trade earlier this offseason, but he has nothing to complain about now. The team had ample cap room to take on both players and should have two starting quality ends for the first time since their defensive heyday. The immense disappointment of 2017 is giving way to another offseason that is creating hope of a turnaround.

Source: footballguys.com

**JAKEPEAVY21** · 03-23-18, 07:44 AM

Originally posted by mpaschal34

Mayfield is NOT a first round pick. Someone will regret that pick in a few years.

disagree, I guess we will wait and see.

**mpaschal34** · 03-23-18, 07:49 AM

Originally posted by JAKEPEAVY21

disagree, I guess we will wait and see.

wouldn't be the first time i'm wrong....but just not feeling the guy.

**JAKEPEAVY21** · 03-23-18, 08:00 AM

Originally posted by mpaschal34

wouldn't be the first time i'm wrong....but just not feeling the guy.

I could be wrong as well but I love his swagger and competitive fire. He was a walk on to begin his college career and still has that chip on his shoulder. Nothing has ever been handed to him and he earned everything that he got. He is highly accurate, mobile enough and his arm strength is much better than most think. I think he will be the best NFL QB out of the entire draft class.

**Otters27** · 03-23-18, 09:23 AM

Originally posted by mpaschal34

Mayfield is NOT a first round pick. Someone will regret that pick in a few years.

Could be like Doug Flutie

**mr. leisure** · 03-23-18, 10:15 AM

Originally posted by JAKEPEAVY21

I could be wrong as well but I love his swagger and competitive fire. He was a walk on to begin his college career and still has that chip on his shoulder. Nothing has ever been handed to him and he earned everything that he got. He is highly accurate, mobile enough and his arm strength is much better than most think. I think he will be the best NFL QB out of the entire draft class.

I hope you`re right Jake .

**JAKEPEAVY21** · 03-23-18, 10:45 AM

Originally posted by mr. leisure

I hope you`re right Jake .

Why?

A lot of people are comparing Mayfield to Manziel and I just don't see it. Manziel grew up rich and was catered to his entire life. Mayfield had to earn everything he got. Yes, Baker had the incident where he was drunk in public and tried to flee from the cops but I think that was an isolated incident. All the other things people point to about his character happened on the field and I chalk that stuff up to his competitiveness. At the QB position, I'd rather have a fiery guy than someone with no passion.

Mr Leisure, I'd love to see him slide to the Chargers at #17, but the chances are probably slim to none.

Loving the Pouncey signing..adding him and last year's 2nd round pick, Forrest Lamp, who tore his ACL before the season started should really solidify the Oline. Last year, with the signing of Russell Okung, the Oline was much better but I think we could have a top 5-10 Oline on our hands here this season.

**LT Profits** · 03-24-18, 07:33 AM

Saturday Update

NFL | Josh Allen wows at pro day
Wyoming QB Josh Allen had 'one of the better pro day throwing sessions you're ever going to see,'' according to Daniel Jeremiah of NFL.com.

Footballguys view: Allen had a great day, arguably the best day of any of the top quarterbacks during their pro days. He showed off his big arm, and several passes could be heard they were thrown so hard. Allen has no problem throwing 70-plus yards, but we already knew that from film. His accuracy (56.0 percent passer) is an issue, and he showed improved footwork and accuracy on Friday. All the tools are there, and Allen loves football and works hard. He's in line to be a top-5 pick in the 2018 NFL draft.

NFL | Martellus Bennett retires
Free-agent TE Martellus Bennett (Patriots) announced his retirement from the NFL Friday, March 23.

Jets | Josh Allen to work out for NYJ
Wyoming QB Josh Allen will privately work out for the New York Jets at an undisclosed time and location, according to Lindsay Jones, of USA TODAY Sports.

Footballguys view: Allen has about nine private visits set so far before the draft, but he's not working out at any of those. The Jets will work him out, perhaps in Wyoming where he had his pro day on Friday. With the no3 overall pick, the Jets are looking for a franchise quarterback and Allen has all the tools necessary to make it in the NFL.

Dolphins | Brock Osweiler finds new home in Miami
Free-agent QB Brock Osweiler (Broncos) agreed to terms on an undisclosed contract with the Miami Dolphins on Friday, March 23.

Footballguys view: Dolphins head coach Adam Gase was part of Osweiler's development in Denver and helped turned the quarterback into a millionaire many times over. He is unlikely to be an upgrade from Matt Moore, who had his share of strong games as the Dolphins backup and briefly, starter since 2011.

Giants | Sam Darnold on NYG's radar
USC QB Sam Darnold is reportedly the only blue-chip, draft-eligible quarterback the New York Giants are willing to consider with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, according to ESPN's Jordan Raanan.

Footballguys view: If the Giants don't want to take a quarterback, they should be in the market to trade down with a quarterback hungry team. They have a golden opportunity to either get a starting quarterback on a rookie deal or reap a ton of draft capital because they hold one of the top picks in a strong quarterback draft.

Jets | NY Jets inks Andre Roberts
Free-agent WR Andre Roberts (Falcons) signed an undisclosed contract with the New York Jets on Friday, March 23.

Source: footballguys.com

**mr. leisure** · 03-24-18, 10:20 AM

Dolphins | Brock Osweiler finds new home in Miami

Mediocre at best , Brock getting rich .

**LT Profits** · 03-25-18, 07:32 AM

Sunday Update

Eagles | No strong offers for Nick Foles
Philadelphia Eagles head coach Doug Pederson said there has not been an offer made that would even tempt the team into trading QB Nick Foles.

Jets | Jermaine Kearse's spot in jeopardy?
New York Jets WR Jermaine Kearse could be cut to save $5 million in cap space with WR Quincy Enunwa (back) set to return from injury in 2018, according to Rich Cimini of ESPNNewYork.com.

Bengals | Cincinnati could sure up TE spot
Cincinnati Bengals TE Tyler Kroft and TE C.J. Uzomah are potential candidates for extensions before the start of next season, according to Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com.

Buccaneers | Tampa to meet with Benny Cunningham
Free-agent RB Benny Cunningham (Bears) is scheduled to meet with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, March 25.

Dolphins | Josh Rosen to meet with MIA
UCLA QB Josh Rosen said he is scheduled to meet with the Miami Dolphins in the next 10 days.

Footballguys view: The Dolphins have Ryan Tannehill and Brock Osweiler on the roster already, but they are in need of a young franchise quarterback. There's a belief by some in the scouting community that Rosen could fall out of the top 10 in the 2018 NFL draft. Even though he may be the most mechanically sound quarterback in this class, but concerns about his attitude abound and some teams may be shy about selecting him. The Dolphins have the no11 pick in the first round of the draft and may be on the outside looking in if Rosen doesn't fall.

Cowboys | Jason Witten reworks deal
Dallas Cowboys TE Jason Witten has agreed to restructure his contract, which has created around $3.5 million in salary cap space for the Cowboys, according to sources.
Footballguys view: The Cowboys have now restructured two contracts in the last week. Both of the moves clear out about $10 million in space. Witten will continue as a favorite target of QB Dak Prescott and for fantasy owners he should post low-end TE1 numbers.

Source: footballguys.com

**mr. leisure** · 03-25-18, 11:57 AM

Eagles | No strong offers for Nick Foles
Philadelphia Eagles head coach Doug Pederson said there has not been an offer made that would even tempt the team into trading QB Nick Foles.

Asking price probably too high .