NFL Player News - Wild Card Week

**LT Profits** · 12-31-18, 08:29 AM

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports Hunter Henry (knee, PUP) is expected to play in the Wild Card round against the Ravens. Dec 31 - 8:26 AM ET

**JAKEPEAVY21** · 12-31-18, 09:31 AM

Originally posted by LT Profits

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports Hunter Henry (knee, PUP) is expected to play in the Wild Card round against the Ravens. Dec 31 - 8:26 AM ET

big addition for the chargers, another threat in the passing game.

**pavyracer** · 12-31-18, 09:33 AM

What fantasy performance? Most leagues didn't have fantasy football this week. All championship games were last week. Is Rich Eisen on meds?

**LT Profits** · 12-31-18, 09:37 AM

Originally posted by pavyracer

What fantasy performance? Most leagues didn't have fantasy football this week. All championship games were last week. Is Rich Eisen on meds?

There are playoff fantasy leagues available at various sites. Most require you to pick roster before playoffs with no transactions allowed, so there is handicapping involved too.

**mpaschal34** · 12-31-18, 06:01 PM

If anyone is doing any type of playoff challenge/etc, I’d be interested in joining. Maybe a couple of 100 point buy in.

**Otters27** · 12-31-18, 10:57 PM

Daily fantasy speaking. Jared Goff or Mahomes in divisional round

**LT Profits** · 01-01-19, 09:05 AM

Tuesday Update

PIT - WR Antonio Brown benched for Week 17

Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette - Gerry Dulac and Ed Bouchette

Pittsburgh Steelers WR Antonio Brown missed the season finale because he chose to sit out practice last week following a heated dispute with a teammate, according to sources.

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Brown's benching reportedly had nothing to do with his knee injury. The dispute occurred mid-week during a routine walk-through at practice. Brown threw a football at the aforementioned teammate (reportedly Ben Roethlisberger) and chose not to practice for the remainder of the week.

LAR - RB Todd Gurley good for postseason

Source: ProFootballTalk.com - Charean Williams

Los Angeles Rams RB Todd Gurley (knee) is expected to be fine for the divisional round of the playoffs, according to head coach Sean McVay. McVay said the star running back is feeling good and that the Rams are encouraged by what they've heard from the medical staff. Los Angeles will be safe with how they handle Gurley heading into the playoffs, however.

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The Rams sealed a bye week by earning the no.2 seed in the NFC. They've been starting C.J. Anderson over the last two weeks with great results. Anderson goes back to the bench as Gurley will now have rested for three weeks. Gurley has been dealing with inflammation in his left knee.

LAC - TE Hunter Henry to take first-team reps

Source: Chargers.com

Updating a previous report, Los Angeles Chargers TE Hunter Henry (knee) will practice with the first-team offense this week, according to Anthony Lynn.

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Henry is back in action this week for the Chargers after missing all of the regular season. He won't be in line for a full snap count in the Wild Card Round, but Henry's return is a boost for the Chargers offense.

JAX - RB Leonard Fournette loses guarantee

Source: The Florida Times-Union - Hays Carlyon

Jacksonville Jaguars RB Leonard Fournette was stripped of the guaranteed money in his contract due to his suspension, according to head coach Doug Marrone.

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Things have turned for Fournette and the Jaguars. A top-5 pick in the 2017 NFL draft, Fournette has now drawn the ire of EVP Tom Coughlin. "I am disappointed in the behavior today from T.J. Yeldon and Leonard Fournette. They were disrespectful, selfish and their behavior was unbecoming that of a professional football player," Coughlin said.

MIA - QB Ryan Tannehill unlikely to return

Source: The Miami Herald - Barry Jackson

Miami Dolphins QB Ryan Tannehill is expected to be released or traded this offseason.

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The Dolphins have a new regime taking over in 2018 with the front office restructured and head coach Adam Gase fired. Tannehill has two years left on his contract and a cap number in 2019 of $26.6 million. There is $13.4 million in dead money remaining on his deal, but it just might be time for the team to move on from the 2012 first-round pick who has failed to produce at the expected level.

MIA - WR DeVante Parker not expected back

Source: The Miami Herald - Barry Jackson

Miami Dolphins WR DeVante Parker is expected to be released this offseason. The team would save $9.4 million salary cap space if they cut Parker.

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Parker had his fifth-year option picked up by the Dolphins but it's only guaranteed for injury. They can back out of that decision and let Parker hit the open market. A first-round pick in the 2015 NFL draft, Parker had only 24 catches for 309 yards and one touchdown in 2018.

BUF - RB LeSean McCoy staying put

Source: ESPN.com - Mike Rodak

Buffalo Bills RB LeSean McCoy will return to the Bills for the final year of his contract in 2019, according to general manager Brandon Beane.

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McCoy is not the same player he used to be, as evidenced by his career low 3.2 yards per carry average in 2018. When healthy, McCoy might still have something left in the tank. He's on the books for just over a $9 million cap hit with about $2.6 million remaining in dead money.

NFL - Daniel Jones declares for draft

Source: The Herald-Sun - Steve Wiseman

Duke QB Daniel Jones announced Monday, Dec. 31, that he will enter the 2019 NFL Draft.

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Jones is a dual-threat quarterback who could work his way into the first round of the 2019 NFL draft. He's big, measuring in at 6'5" 220 pounds and has the tools to be a quality starting quarterback in the NFL. Jones has a bit of Carson Wentz to his game, featuring intelligence and toughness in addition to mobility and a strong arm. Consistency is an issue for him and one he'll need to overcome at the pro level.

TEN - No surgery plans for QB Marcus Mariota

Source: TitanInsider.com - Terry McCormick

Tennessee Titans QB Marcus Mariota (neck) is not expected to need surgery to address the nerve issues that have plagued him recently.

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Nerve issues can be tricky to deal with and we know the Titans are going to be cautious with their franchise quarterback. We'll know more about Mariota's availability for offseason workouts later in the spring but there doesn't seem to be any need for him to miss those given no surgery is needed.

NO - WR Cameron Meredith expects to be ready for 2019

Source: The Times-Picayune - Josh Katzenstein

New Orleans Saints WR Cameron Meredith (knee) believes he will be ready to take part in all offseason work in 2019.

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Meredith signed a two-year deal with the Saints last year but saw his season cut short by another knee problem. He played in six games this year, catching nine passes for 114 yards and one touchdown. Meredith has a $6.8 million cap hit next year with $2.75 million in dead money. He's no lock for the final roster in 2019.

TB - QB Jameis Winston to return in 2019

Source: The Athletic - Greg Auman

Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Jameis Winston is expected to remain the team's starting quarterback in 2019, general manager Jason Licht told reporters during his season-ending presser Monday, Dec. 31.

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Winston has one more year on his deal, playing on the fifth-year option in 2019 with a cap number of $20.9 million. He's now going to be playing under his third head coach (Lovie Smith, Dirk Koetter) with the Bucs now undergoing what could be an extensive search for a new head coach.

PHI - QB Nick Foles to start playoff opener

Source: ProFootballTalk.com - Josh Alper

Updating a previous report, Philadelphia Eagles QB Nick Foles (ribs) has been named the starting quarterback for the team's NFC Wild-Card Game against the Chicago Bears.

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Foles is dealing with bruised ribs, something he can play with but should come along with a certain amount of pain. The Eagles travel to play against the Bears in the Wild Card Round on Sunday.

ATL - Atlanta cleans house at coordinator

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

Atlanta Falcons offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian, defensive coordinator Marquand Manuel and special teams coach Keith Armstrong were fired Monday, Dec. 31, according to a source.

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No surprise here. Sarkisian's offense was never a fit for the talent of the Atlanta offense. Reports indicate the team could turn to former Broncos head coach Gary Kubiak to be their offensive coordinator. That would be a fine move if possible as Kubiak comes from the Shanahan system, and QB Matt Ryan (and the entire offense) looked great under Kyle Shanahan a couple of years ago.

MIN - No changes in Minnesota

Source: NFL Network - Tom Pelissero

Updating an earlier report, Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer and general manager Rick Spielman will remain in their positions after owners Zygi and Mark Wilf sat in on the final team meeting.

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The Vikings fell short of the postseason in 2018, even though they paid QB Kirk Cousins the first fully guaranteed contract in NFL history. Some felt Zimmer may be on the chopping block because the team fell short this season after playing in the NFC Championship last season. Zimmer is under contract through 2019, so we should see the team get him a short-term extension in the near future.

NYJ - Eric Bieniemy requested for Jets interview

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy was requested for an interview for the New York Jets' head coaching vacancy.

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Bieniemy is going to be one of the hotter head coaching prospects out there. Running the high-powered Chiefs offense is going to be something coveted by teams in the league in need of a head coach. The Jets are looking for someone to get the most out of QB Sam Darnold and Bieniemy might be that guy.

NO - TE Josh Hill signs extension

Source: ESPN.com - Field Yates

New Orleans Saints TE Josh Hill signed a three-year, $8.85 million extension through the 2021 season Monday, Dec. 31.

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Hill was set to be a free agent in 2019 but the Saints clearly wanted him around. He's not much of a pass-catcher (Hill catches about 15 passes per year) and should continue as a role player for the Saints.

ARI - Steve Wilks fired

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

Updating an earlier report, Arizona Cardinals head coach Steve Wilks has been fired.

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It only took one season to determine Wilks wasn't their guy. Wilks didn't get much of anything from either side of the ball in Arizona, and the team wants to see more progress from QB Josh Rosen. A one-year defensive coordinator with the Panthers, Wilks should get a job in the near future as an assistant somewhere.

DEN - DEN wants Mike Munchak interview

Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter

Pittsburgh Steelers offensive line coach Mike Munchak has been requested for an interview for the Denver Broncos' head coaching vacancy.

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The Broncos took a chance on a first-time head coach last time with Vance Joseph. They might want to go with a more experienced coach this time around. Munchak went 22-26 in three seasons with the Titans from 2011-13.

CIN - Marvin Lewis fired

Source: NFL Network - Tom Pelissero

Cincinnati Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis informed his staff Monday, Dec. 31, that he is out as head coach.

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Lewis made it 16 seasons with the Bengals even though Lewis had an 0-7 record in the playoffs. The Bengals finish with a 6-10 record this year and have a roster with limited talent. Lewis has been leaning towards retirement as a head coach but we think he could find his way into a front office role somewhere in the league.

MIA - Adam Gase fired

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

Miami Dolphins head coach Adam Gase was fired Monday, Dec. 31, according to a source.

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It's a somewhat surprising move for the Dolphins. There was a power struggle in the front office that is now reshuffled and Gase is now looking for a job. A majority of teams with coaching vacancies have already reached out to Gase. He should land on his feet in the near future.

DEN - Vance Joseph fired

Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter

Denver Broncos head coach Vance Joseph was fired Monday, Dec. 31.

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The Broncos have now had back-to-back losing seasons for the first time since 1972...all under the watch of Joseph. The players played hard for Joseph but he was saddled with Case Keenum as his quarterback and little depth. The Broncos are now looking for their fourth head coach since 2011 (John Fox, Gary Kubiak, Vance Joseph) and may go to a more experienced coach. Joseph was a first-time head coach and went 5-11 and 6-10 in two seasons.

OAK - Mike Mayock hired as Raiders' GM

Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter

NFL Network draft analyst Mike Mayock was hired as Oakland Raiders general manager Monday, Dec. 31, according to sources.

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Mayock goes from the TV booth to the front office of the Raiders...much like Jon Gruden did as their head coach. He doesn't have any experience in a front office but Mayock does a great job of breaking down the NFL draft and evaluating talent for NFL Network. This is going to be quite interesting to see how things shake out for the Raiders with five first-round draft picks over the next two seasons.

GB - Josh McDaniels sought for GB interview

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels has been requested for an interview by the Green Bay Packers for their head coaching vacancy.

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McDaniels was supposed to be the coach of the Colts last year but that fell apart. Many think he's going to be the coach of the future for the Patriots but every year teams come calling for McDaniels. Green Bay is trying to find the best fit for Aaron Rodgers.

CLE - Mike McCarthy headed to Browns?

Source: The Arizona Republic - Bob McManaman

Former Green Bay Packers head coach Mike McCarthy is in line to be the next head coach of the Cleveland Browns, according to sources.

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The Browns are reportedly going to have a wide coaching search but that's not the case if McCarthy gets it from the get go. We'll see if a large search is done or if they've made their mind up already.

Source: footballguys.com

**JAKEPEAVY21** · 01-01-19, 10:00 AM

good move by Atlanta firing Steve Sarkisian..their red zone offense the past couple of years has been dreadful.

**tokyotuna** · 01-01-19, 01:20 PM

McCarthy to the jets maybe?

**gauchojake** · 01-01-19, 01:30 PM

Eric Bienemy to the Jets would be frickken awesome.

**mr. leisure** · 01-01-19, 01:45 PM

20.9 million for Jameis Winston for next year .

**mpaschal34** · 01-01-19, 11:01 PM

Originally posted by mr. leisure

20.9 million for Jameis Winston for next year .

They can’t be that dumb.

**jrgum3** · 01-02-19, 12:12 AM

Originally posted by JAKEPEAVY21

good move by Atlanta firing Steve Sarkisian..their red zone offense the past couple of years has been dreadful.

Agreed with a better playcaller on offense the Falcons could have been a playoff team. They definitely have the pieces on offense to be a Super Bowl contender so it will be interesting to see who they hire as OC.

**cankid** · 01-02-19, 03:14 AM

Originally posted by JAKEPEAVY21

good move by Atlanta firing Steve Sarkisian..their red zone offense the past couple of years has been dreadful.

Ditto, have a Good New Year JP

**JaimeMiro** · 01-02-19, 03:51 AM

Me I'm just here for the Steelers news. Could their front office be any worse than this?! Now it's Antonio Brown... They should just hire Foreman. At least they would have House teaching him how to keep everyone in their lane

**LT Profits** · 01-02-19, 08:15 AM

Wednesday Update

There is a lot more coaching news than actual "Player News" today!

IND - WR T.Y. Hilton misses practice

Source: Colts.com

Indianapolis Colts WR T.Y. Hilton (ankle) was held out of practice Tuesday, Jan. 1. His status is an estimation as the Colts only participated in a walkthrough.

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Hilton hasn't really practiced for a couple of weeks now due to this ankle injury. He'll miss practice but he'll play and produce at the expected level. The Colts will give him all the rest he needs before their Wild Card game against the Texans on Saturday.

DET - QB Connor Cook signed to Futures deal

Source: DetroitLions.com

The Detroit Lions signed QB Connor Cook (Bengals) to a Reserve/Futures contract Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019.

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Originally a fourth-round pick of the Raiders in the 2016 NFL draft, Cook has bounced around the league to a few different teams. The Lions are just signing him as a camp arm and developmental prospect for the offseason. The chances of him making the 53-man roster in the fall are slim.

DET - Jim Bob Cooter Not Expected To Return

Source: ESPN - Michael Rothstein

The Detroit Lions announced they won't renew the contract of offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter.

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Lions head coach Matt Patricia initially said he was in no rush to make a decision and wants to 'allow the emotion of the season to come down' before making the final call. But ESPN reports they will not renew his contract.

ATL - Dirk Koetter to interview for Falcons OC

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Dirk Koetter will interview for the Atlanta Falcons offensive coordinator vacancy soon.

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The Falcons are in need of both an offensive and defensive coordinator. Their OC the last two years (Steve Sarkisian) failed to get the most out of QB Matt Ryan. Any coach that is hired now will be tasked with getting this once high-powered offense back on track.

ARI - Adam Gase interviewing with Cardinals

Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter

Former Miami Dolphins head coach Adam Gase will interview for the Arizona Cardinals' head coaching vacancy Wednesday, Jan. 2.

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Gase should land on his feet quickly after getting fired by the Dolphins on Monday. The Cardinals have QB Josh Rosen in place as a potential franchise quarterback and Gase could be pegged to get the best from him.

MIA - Vic Fangio to interview with Miami

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

Chicago Bears defensive coordinator Vic Fangio will interview with the Miami Dolphins Monday, Jan. 7, for their head coaching vacancy.

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Fangio is also going to interview for the Broncos head coaching vacancy. He's been coaching for over 30 years but has never had a chance to be a head coach. With so much interest in the veteran coach, this might be the year he finally gets a shot.

DEN - Vic Fangio to interview with Denver

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

Chicago Bears defensive coordinator Vic Fangio will interview with the Denver Broncos Monday, Jan. 7, for their head coaching vacancy.

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The Broncos tried the first-time head coach route with Vance Joseph but that failed and they might do that again with Fangio. Unlike Joseph, a one-year defensive coordinator, Fangio has years and years of being a coordinator but has yet to get a chance to be a head coach. The Broncos want Gary Kubiak to be their OC and perhaps having Fangio as their defensive minded head coach would do that.

GB - Josh McDaniels to interview for Packers

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels will interview for the Green Bay Packers head coach vacancy Friday, Jan. 4.

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McDaniels was in line to be the Colts head coach last year but backed out. That move has not cooled the interest in him. He's seen as the future of the Patriots at the head coaching position but there's no telling when Bill Belichick is going to hang it up. McDaniels was the Broncos head coach for less than two years but is likely to be better prepared his second time around.

Source: footballguys.com

**LT Profits** · 01-03-19, 09:19 AM

Thursday Update

LAC - RB Melvin Gordon says he'll play

Source: The Orange County Register - Gilbert Manzano

Los Angeles Chargers RB Melvin Gordon (ankle) said he is ready to go this weekend against the Baltimore Ravens despite sustaining an ankle injury in Week 17.

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Gordon was banged up heading into the postseason but that was from a knee injury that forced him out of action for a few weeks. He returned for the Chargers in Week 16 and had a couple of games to shake off the rust. We'd be surprised if he missed the Wild Card game against the Ravens on Sunday.

HOU - WR DeAndre Hopkins remains limited

Source: Houston Texans PR

Houston Texans WR DeAndre Hopkins (ankle) was limited in practice Wednesday, Jan. 2.

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Hopkins has been limited for a couple of days with this ankle injury. He's good to go for the Wild Card game against the Colts on Saturday.

PHI - Limited practice for QB Nick Foles

Source: PhiladelphiaEagles.com

Philadelphia Eagles QB Nick Foles (ribs) was limited in practice Wednesday, Jan. 2.

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Foles is the starter for the Eagles in the Wild Card round on Sunday against the Bears. A rib injury is painful to deal with but Foles is tough and battle-tested in the postseason.

PHI - QB Carson Wentz not practicing

Source: PhiladelphiaEagles.com

Philadelphia Eagles QB Carson Wentz (back) is not practicing Wednesday, Jan. 2.

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Nick Foles is going to start for the Eagles in the Wild Card round. They need Wentz to be ready as his backup if at all possible.

LAC - No decision on TE Hunter Henry

Source: ESPN.com - Eric D. Williams

Los Angeles Chargers TE Hunter Henry's (knee) status for this weekend is unclear at this point as head coach Anthony Lynn has yet to decide whether to make Henry active.

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Henry missed all of the regular season with this knee injury. He might be back for the Wild Card game against the Ravens on Sunday. If he is active then he will be on a snap count.

NFL - Kaden Smith declares for draft

Source: ProFootballTalk.com - Charean Williams

Stanford TE Kaden Smith announced Wednesday, Jan. 2, that he will forego his senior season and enter the 2019 NFL Draft.

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In two seasons, Smith made 70 catches for 1,049 yards and seven touchdowns in 20 games. Smith is your typical Stanford tight end, and measuring in at 6'5" 252 pounds he should get quite a bit of NFL attention. Some in the scouting community have an early second-round grade on Smith.

IND - No practice for WR T.Y. Hilton

Source: The Herald Bulletin - George Bremer

Indianapolis Colts WR T.Y. Hilton (ankle) remained out of practice Wednesday, Jan. 2.

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That's to be expected with Hilton. He hasn't practiced much over the last couple of weeks yet he still plays and produces. We'd be shocked if he missed Saturdsay's Wild Card game against the Texans.

NYG - QB Eli Manning's future is cloudy

Source: The Bergen Record - Art Stapleton

New York Giants QB Eli Manning's future with the Giants is cloudy as general manager Dave Gettleman was noncommittal on Manning being the starter in 2019. 'I'm committed to making the best decision in the interest of the Giants. We're in the evaluation process,' Gettleman said.

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Gettleman is being brutally honest about the situation. The Giants passed on taking a quarterback last year in the first round, instead opting for star RB Saquon Barkley. This year with the 6th overall pick, they may choose to go with a rookie quarterback. Manning's time as the Giants starter is coming to a close.

NYG - WR Odell Beckham staying put

Source: NFL Network - Kimberly Jones

New York Giants WR Odell Beckham Jr. will not be traded this offseason, according to general manager Dave Gettleman.

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"We didn't sign him to trade him," Gettleman said. Beckham made it through only 12 games this year and hasn't played a full 16-game season since 2016. He'll be the centerpiece of the passing attack and gives the Giants a dynamic duo of skill position players with RB Saquon Barkley. Beckham finished 2018 as the no.16 fantasy wide receiver in standard-scoring leagues. If healthy, he's clearly got WR1 ability for Fantasy GMs.

IND - WR T.Y. Hilton struggling with ankle injury

Source: 1070 The Fan - Kevin Bowen

Indianapolis Colts WR T.Y. Hilton (ankle) has practiced only twice in the last four weeks and admitted his current ankle injury is the worst injury he's ever played through.'I know he is not full speed, he is far from it. Who knows what percent he is, but I just know he is fighting for every rep and every catch he can make,' head coach Frank Reich told Kevin Bowen of 1070 The Fan.

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Hilton has not been practicing much at all but he still plays and produces for the Colts. We'd be shocked if the star receiver missed Saturday's Wild Card game against the Texans.

Source: footballguys.com

**Otters27** · 01-03-19, 11:03 AM

Originally posted by gauchojake

Eric Bienemy to the Jets would be frickken awesome.

That guy sure worked his way up

**LT Profits** · 01-04-19, 08:32 AM

Friday Update

IND - WR T.Y. Hilton questionable

Source: Colts.com

Updating a previous report, Indianapolis Colts WR T.Y. Hilton (ankle) is questionable to play in the wild-card round of the playoffs this weekend.

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Hilton has been battling this ankle injury for some time, but he produced nine catches over the final two weeks of the regular season in must win games. He's missed practice this week but should be ready to rock against the Texans on Saturday.

PHI - QB Nick Foles practicing Thursday

Source: Philadelphia Inquirer - Jeff McLane

Philadelphia Eagles QB Nick Foles (neck) was practicing Thursday, Jan. 3.

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Foles is starting for the Eagles in the Wild Card Round. They travel to play the Bears on Sunday, and Foles will be facing a defense that is among the best in the league. The Bears finished 7th in the league in terms of pass defense by only allowing an average of 219.7 yards through the air per game.

CHI - WR Allen Robinson practices in full

Source: ChicagoBears.com

Chicago Bears WR Allen Robinson (ribs) fully participated in practice Thursday, Jan. 3.

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The Bears should have their full complement of wide receivers and they all practiced in full despite missing some or all of Week 17.

HOU - WR DeAndre Hopkins not on injury report

Source: HoustonTexans.com

Houston Texans WR DeAndre Hopkins (ankle) was limited during practice Thursday, Jan. 3, but is not on the injury report for the Wild Card playoff game.

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Hopkins has been limited in practice by various injuries all season long. He's good to go and ready to shine in the Wild Card Round. The Texans are at home Saturday to take on the Colts.

HOU - WR Keke Coutee officially questionable

Source: HoustonTexans.com

Houston Texans WR Keke Coutee (hamstring) fully participated in practice Thursday, Jan. 3, but is listed as questionable for the Wild Card playoff game.

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Coutee could be back in action for the Texans this week. A hamstring injury severely limited during his rookie season but the speed and run-after-the-catch ability he has when healthy can be quite dangerous. Having Coutee out there would be a boost for the Texans passing game.

IND - Full practice for TE Eric Ebron

Source: Colts.com

Indianapolis Colts TE Eric Ebron (rest) was a full practice participant Thursday, Jan. 3.

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Ebron just had to get some rest this week. The team is preparing for a matchup against the Texans on Saturday in the Wild Card Round. Having Ebron out there will be a boost for the Colts offense.

MIN - QB Kirk Cousins has confidence of coach

Source: St. Paul Pioneer Press - Chris Tomasson

Minnesota Vikings QB Kirk Cousins has the backing of head coach Mike Zimmer who spoke at a news conference Thursday, Jan. 3. 'I have a lot of confidence in Kirk Cousins,' said Zimmer, who predicted the quarterback will play well next year.

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Cousins was a 4,000-yard passer for the fourth year in a row in 2018, and he finished the season with 30 touchdowns to only 10 interceptions. The Vikings didn't make the playoffs after making it all the way to the NFC Championship Game last year with Case Keenum as their starter. Cousins has two years remaining on his fully guaranteed deal with the pressure increasing to pay off with a championship run.

NYJ - Adam Gase to meet Jets Friday

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero

Former Miami Dolphins head coach Adam Gase will interview with the New York Jets Friday, Jan. 4.

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Gase has a bright offensive mind but things didn't work out for him in Miami. This is the second known interview for the young coaching candidate. Gase would be exciting for the Jets to add given their skill position talent...and oh yeah, QB Sam Darnold.

JAX - RB Leonard Fournette unlikely to be cut

Source: NFL Network - Tom Pelissero

Jacksonville Jaguars RB Leonard Fournette is not expected to be released during the offseason, according to NFL.com's Tom Pelissero.

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Fournette was criticized by Tom Coughlin, the team's executive vice president of football operations, for 'disrespectful' behavior during the team's Week 17 loss, and there were also reports that the remaining guaranteed money in Fournette's contract was voided by the Jaguars due to his suspension earlier in the season.

MIN - RB Latavius Murray wants to start

Source: Minneapolis Star Tribune - Andrew Krammer

Minnesota Vikings impending free-agent RB Latavius Murray said he is open to re-signing with the Vikings this offseason but is not content to being in the backup role and wants to start in 2019.

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Murray could be productive in a downhill running game but needs a good offensive line to succeed. Veteran backs usually take a step down in role when they have to go through a cycle of the free agent market with so many talented runners entering via the draft every year.

DEN - Chuck Pagano interviews with Denver

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

Former Indianapolis Colts head coach Chuck Pagano interviewed for the Denver Broncos' vacant head coaching position on Wednesday, Jan. 2.

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Pagano's Colts blew multiple fourth quarter leads in 2017 and he seemed bewildered by the trend. The league seems to be weighting head coaching experience heavily in their searches again.

Source: footballguys.com

**JAKEPEAVY21** · 01-04-19, 10:52 AM

Originally posted by JaimeMiro

Me I'm just here for the Steelers news. Could their front office be any worse than this?! Now it's Antonio Brown... They should just hire Foreman. At least they would have House teaching him how to keep everyone in their lane

Steelers need to clean house and get rid of the locker room cancers.

They need more "WE" and less "ME".

**mr. leisure** · 01-04-19, 11:05 AM

I wouldn`t hire Chuck Pagano to be my head coach . He seemed lost out there half of the time.

**Otters27** · 01-04-19, 11:24 AM

Originally posted by JAKEPEAVY21

Steelers need to clean house and get rid of the locker room cancers.

They need more "WE" and less "ME".

I think the age of the Steelers are over. How much longer can big Ben go?

**mpaschal34** · 01-05-19, 01:06 AM

Originally posted by mr. leisure

I wouldn`t hire Chuck Pagano to be my head coach . He seemed lost out there half of the time.

Totally agree.

**LT Profits** · 01-05-19, 09:04 AM

Saturday Update

CHI - WR Allen Robinson not on injury report

Source: ChicagoBears.com

Chicago Bears WR Allen Robinson (ribs) fully participated in practice Friday, Jan. 4, and is not on the injury report for the Wild Card playoff game.

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All three of the Bears top receivers appear to be at full strength and facing a Philadelphia secondary that is anything but full strength. Mitchell Trubisky should have a lot of opportunities to make plays in his first playoff start.

LAC - RB Austin Ekeler listed as questionable

Source: Chargers.com

Los Angeles Chargers RB Austin Ekeler (groin) was limited during practice Friday, Jan. 4, and is listed as questionable for the Wild Card playoff game.

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Ekeler should be good to go and ready for more action if one of Melvin Gordon's injuries pops up again vs. the Ravens.

MIA - QB Ryan Tannehill expected to be shopped

Source: The Miami Herald - Barry Jackson

Miami Dolphins QB Ryan Tannehill is expected to be shopped to other teams this offseason.

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The Dolphins will eat over 13 million in cap space whether they trade or release Tannehill, but they can get some draft compensation if they find a taker. He's due 18.725 million, so he'll only get traded if someone sees him as a starter.

NFL - Riley Ridley leaving school

Source: ProFootballTalk.com - Josh Alper

Georgia WR Riley Ridley has announced that he will be entering the 2019 NFL Draft.

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Calvin Ridley's little brother should be one of the first 5-10 wide receivers off of the board with an outside shot to get into the first round with a good pre-draft season.

NFL - Isaac Nauta enters draft

Source: ProFootballTalk.com - Charean Williams

Georgia TE Isaac Nauta has announced that he will be entering the 2019 NFL Draft.

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Nauta had a great freshman year and strong finish to his junior year. He's a two-way tight end with blocking prowess and receiving ability and should fit in the second tier of a strong tight end class.

NFL - Mecole Hardman declares for draft

Source: ProFootballTalk.com - Charean Williams

Georgia WR Mecole Hardman has announced that he will be entering the 2019 NFL Draft.

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Hardman's main asset is his speed. He started strong but slowed down in the second half of the year and was shut down in the Sugar Bowl. He'll add value to his draft stock as a punt and kick returner.

NFL - Elijah Holyfield entering draft

Source: Fort Worth Star-Telegram - Charean Williams

Georgia RB Elijah Holyfield has announced that he will be entering the 2019 NFL Draft.

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Evander Holyfield's son will try to show he's the real deal in the NFL next year. He and De'Andre Swift were both 1000 yard rushers this year, following in the footsteps of Nick Chubb and Sony Michel.

ATL - RB Devonta Freeman should be ready for camp

Source: ESPN.com - Vaughn McClure

Atlanta Falcons RB Devonta Freeman (groin) may not be ready for offseason workouts but will be ready for the start of training camp, according to head coach Dan Quinn.

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This stands out considering the reports that Freeman might return by the end of the regular season. He had knee problems at the end of last season and did not have surgery. Maybe we'll hear about surgery this offseason to explain this revised timeline.

BUF - QB Josh Allen joined exclusive group in 2018

Source: BuffaloBills.com

Buffalo Bills QB Josh Allen led his team with 2,074 passing yards and 631 rushing yards in 2018, becoming only the fourth quarterback since 2000 to lead his team in both categories.

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Allen will be a hotly debated fantasy player in drafts with one of the highest ceilings and lowest floors at the position, but lots of room to grow.

KC - QB Patrick Mahomes heads AP All-Pro team

Source: The Associated Press

Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes was selected as the first-team quarterback on the Associated Press All-Pro team announced Friday, Jan. 4.

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This comes as no surprise, but it still deserves a moment of reflection after Mahomes came into the season with one career start and one year in the league under his belt.

MIA - Eric Bieniemy meeting with Miami

Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter

Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy is interviewing with the Miami Dolphins for their head coaching vacancy Friday, Jan. 4.

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Bieniemy will be a hot name after former Andy Reid assistants Matt Nagy had a strong first year in Chicago and Doug Pederson won a Super Bowl in Philadelphia.

TEN - TE Delanie Walker hoping to run soon

Source: TitansOnline.com - Jim Wyatt

Tennessee Titans TE Delanie Walker (ankle) said he hopes to receive clearance to resume running in the coming weeks and wants to be ready when OTAs begin.

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The Titans offense missed Walker as both a receiver and blocker. He can still play at a high level despite being in the autumn of his career. He shouldn't be on dynasty waiver wires.

NFL - Marquise Brown declares for draft

Source: DraftWire - Gavino Borquez

Oklahoma WR Marquise Brown announced that he will forgo his senior season and enter the 2019 NFL Draft.

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Brown is a speedster who will hope to ride the coattails of players like Tyreek Hill and Taylor Gabriel who have overcome being undersized by typical NFL wide receiver standards.

NFL - Trayveon Williams to enter draft

Source: The Dallas Morning News - Ben Baby

Texas A&M RB Trayveon Williams will skip his senior season and enter the 2019 NFL Draft.

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Any time someone can lead the SEC in rushing, we should pay attention. He'll likely go among the top ten backs in this year's draft.

Source: footballguys.com

**JAKEPEAVY21** · 01-05-19, 09:19 AM

Originally posted by Otters27

I think the age of the Steelers are over. How much longer can big Ben go?

agreed

Browns could take over division in the coming years.

**Otters27** · 01-05-19, 10:20 AM

Looking forward to today's games

**LT Profits** · 01-05-19, 05:20 PM

Sports Insights‏@SportsInsights

#NFL #Chargers - Report: Chargers won't activate Hunter Henry (ACL) from PUP list today.

**mpaschal34** · 01-05-19, 08:53 PM

Still can’t believe ATL gave D.Freeman a big contract.

**JAKEPEAVY21** · 01-06-19, 09:23 AM

Originally posted by LT Profits

Sports Insights‏@SportsInsights

#NFL #Chargers - Report: Chargers won't activate Hunter Henry (ACL) from PUP list today.

that is a shame, better safe than sorry I suppose.

**LT Profits** · 01-06-19, 09:39 AM

Sunday Update

LAR - RB C.J. Anderson could see action

Source: TheRams.com - Myles Simmons

Los Angeles Rams RB C.J. Anderson could continue to have a role in the offense during the playoffs, according to head coach Sean McVay. 'But, he's certainly earned the right to be on the field,' McVay said. 'He's done a great job these last couple weeks.'

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Todd Gurley has three weeks to rest with the bye week and Anderson starting the last two weeks of the regular season. It only makes sense to use Gurley as much as possible but also to use Anderson when he needs rest.

NFL - James Williams turning pro

Source: The Associated Press

Washington State RB James H. Williams announced that he will forgo his senior season and enter the 2019 NFL Draft.

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Measuring in at 5'11" 199 pounds, Williams was mostly known in college for his pass-catching ability. In 2018, Williams had a team-high 83 catches for 613 yards and finished his career with 202 receptions in three seasons.

HOU - WR DeAndre Hopkins played with injury

Source: NFL Network - James Palmer

Houston Texans WR DeAndre Hopkins (shoulder) suffered a Grade 3 AC joint sprain in the first half of the Texans' wild-card playoff loss.

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He's been dealing with various injuries all season long, but this shoulder injury did impact his play. Hopkins said he played through a lot of pain in the second half but didn't want to come out of the game. He had five catches for 37 yards in the loss to the Colts.

LAC - TE Hunter Henry could play in playoffs

Source: NFL.com - Steve Wyche

Los Angeles Chargers TE Hunter Henry (knee) will miss the Wild Card playoff game, but the Chargers would have to make a decision on Henry's status by Monday, Jan. 7, if they advance to the Divisional Round playoff game.

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That's a big 'if' given the opponent they are facing...on the road...in the Wild Card Round. We'll see if the Chargers can advance then perhaps get Henry back.

LAC - RB Austin Ekeler expects to be ready

Source: The Orange County Register - Gilbert Manzano

Los Angeles Chargers RB Austin Ekeler (groin) said Saturday, Jan. 5 that he expects to play in the AFC Wild-Card Game against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, Jan. 6. He said his groin injury is 'very manageable.'

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Ekeler will serve as a backup to Melvin Gordon on Sunday. He's their change-of-pace back and can make big plays with the ball in his hands. We'll see if this groin injury bothers him in the least in the Wild Card Round.

PIT - QB Ben Roethlisberger to rework deal

Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter

Pittsburgh Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger is expected to restructure his contract and receive an extension before the start of the new league year so the team could create some salary cap space.

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That salary cap space could be critical for the Steelers, especially if they move on from Antonio Brown. If the Steelers trade away the disgruntled wide receiver before June 1st they would take a cap hit around $21 million. By Roethlisberger clearing up some space that could help alleviate that number...just a bit. Roethlisberger's final year of his current deal is 2019 and he has recently commented how he wants to play a few more years.

ARI - JJ Nelson not expected back

Source: AZCardinals.com - Darren Urban

Arizona Cardinals impending free-agent WR JJ Nelson probably will not re-sign with the Arizona Cardinals this offseason especially after he was inactive for the last few games of the season, in the opinion of AZCardinals.com's Darren Urban.

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A speedy fifth-round pick for the Cardinals back in the 2015 NFL draft, Nelson has flashed here and there. He didn't do much of anything this season. Nelson appeared in 14 games but finished with a career low seven catches for 64 yards in 2018. We doubt the market for his services is that hot in the offseason.

PIT - Pittsburgh will listen to offers for WR Antonio Brown

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

The Pittsburgh Steelers are expected to listen to trade offers for WR Antonio Brown prior to the start of free agency and would consider moving him if they receive adequate compensation, according to multiple sources.

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Brown is a due a roster bonus of $2.5 million by the third day of the new league year, so any deal would need to be completed before that point. A potential trade would free up $1 million in cap space for the Steelers and create cash savings of $15 million.

DAL - RB Ezekiel Elliott eyeing contract extension

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

Dallas Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott is interested in receiving a contract extension this offseason, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

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Elliott is signed through the 2020 season since the team has a fifth-year option on the 2016 first-round pick. It sounds like they want to work something out much sooner with their franchise running back. Elliott won the 2018 rushing title with 1,434 yards on the ground in 15 games played. That's his second rushing crown in three seasons with the Cowboys.

Source: footballguys.com

**mr. leisure** · 01-07-19, 12:33 AM

Fantastic game today by your Chargers Jake .

**mpaschal34** · 01-07-19, 02:24 AM

Originally posted by mr. leisure

Fantastic game today by your Chargers Jake .

I’m sure he was sweating bullets in the late 4th quarter. Was looking like another collapse was about to happen.

**jrgum3** · 01-07-19, 04:12 AM

Originally posted by mpaschal34

I’m sure he was sweating bullets in the late 4th quarter. Was looking like another collapse was about to happen.

I was sweating that game for sure and I'm not a Charger fan just a Charger bettor. I have a bunch of them in my playoff fantasy football leagues so I need them to keep winning for me to have a chance to win some money in those leagues.

**JAKEPEAVY21** · 01-07-19, 09:00 AM

Originally posted by mr. leisure

Fantastic game today by your Chargers Jake .

Originally posted by mpaschal34

I’m sure he was sweating bullets in the late 4th quarter. Was looking like another collapse was about to happen.

thanks but a dominant win turned into a nail biter

I actually think the Chargers match up with NE better than Balt, I'm feeling fairly confident to get a win in Foxboro