[LT Profits]

Courtesy of Footballguys.com

OAK - Richardson sheds weight

Source: Raiders.com

Oakland Raiders RB coach Mike Tice sat down to talk to Sirius XM Radio, and said free agent pickup Trent Richardson "lost some weight, his quickness came around." He also praised Latavius Murray "really came on in that veteran mini-camp. He got his legs under him and showed some quickness, some good finish" and free agent signing Roy Helu's receiving ability was noted.

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Richardson seemed sluggish compared to the back he was at Alabama, so let's see if he looks more spry in training camp and the preseason. Murray is the likely leader in touches in the backfield. but Helu will have a role and Richardson has a way of getting coaches to feed him touches even when makes them worthless. Oakland's offense is no prize, so the luster on Murray beyond his measureables continues to fade.

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SEA - Michael on roster bubble?

Source: Terry Blount, ESPN

Terry Blount of ESPN reports that it is ""step up or step out" time for RB Christine Michael entering his third year after being a second-round pick in 2013. The Seahawks staff likes UDFA Thomas Rawls according to Blount and he could induce them to trade Michael for a late-round pick.

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The inevitable next question from fantasy leaguers is whether Dallas would trade for Michael? Some familiar with Dallas have said they had Michael off of their board in 2013, and Michael had injuries and character questions that make that seem possible, but those issues didn't stop them from taking chances on other players. Make no mistake, this is a hit to Michael who should have established himself as a coveted future starter, but it could get him a larger opportunity earlier, so his value remains in flux. Robert Turbin and Rawls would probably split the backup work if Michael is not a Seahawks come Week 1.

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NYG - Pierre-Paul injured hand in fireworks accident

Source: Andy Slater 940 WINZ Radio

Andy Slater of 940 AM WINZ Radio reports that Giants DE Jason Pierre-Paul "severely" injured his hand in a fireworks accident. Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that "early indications are hand injury is not career-threatening", but Pierre-Paul needs to see his doctors.

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Passrushers hand usage is the silent key to their ability to win in showdowns. If Pierre-Paul loses a lot of ability to be an aggressor or defend himself on one side, his opponent will take advantage. He is also playing under a franchise tag contract right now, one that he has not signed. The Giants could take the offer off of the table and put Pierre-Paul in free agency. They did draft power rusher Owa Odighizuwa in the third round and scooped up a falling Damontre Moore in 2013. Robert Ayers has contributed since signing with the team last year, so they might be able to get by without Pierre-Paul.

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BUF - QB Matt Cassel could receive extension

Source: The Buffalo News - Vic Carucci

Buffalo Bills QB Matt Cassel is a candidate for a contract extension if he wins the starting job during training camp. He is scheduled to count $4.75 million against the salary cap this season.

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Cassel will be extremely lucky to make the roster at his current rate. He stunk it up in OTAs, and the Bills have no reason to keep him around if he isn't better than Tyrod Taylor and EJ Manuel. Cassel looking for work before Week 1 is more likely than an extension if trends continue.

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BUF - WR Sammy Watkins should be ready for camp

Source: The Buffalo News - Vic Carucci

Buffalo Bills WR Sammy Watkins (hip) is expected to be ready for the start of training camp after he was limited during offseason workouts.

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Watkins offseason surgery is not nearly as troubling to his fantasy stock than the uncertainty at quarterback that could have Tyrod Taylor responsible for getting the ball or him - or worse. New acquisitions Percy Harvin and Charles Clay will also get theirs, in addition to fellow rising second-year wideout Robert Woods. Watkins is a hard pick to justify in the first four or five rounds this year.

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BUF - RB Fred Jackson favorite for No. 2 RB job

Source: The Buffalo News - Vic Carucci

Buffalo Bills RB Fred Jackson is expected to be the leading candidate for the No. 2 running back job entering training camp. Jackson will have to contribute on the field if he wants to stay with the team since he does not play special teams.

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LeSean McCoy will get all of the work that he can handle in Buffalo, but Jackson has a way of hanging around backfields more than his competition expects. He could end up being a superior goal-line and hurry-up offense option, so don't assume Jackson's fantasy value is dead yet. If the Bills do release the underrated heart of the team because of his price tag, a team like the Patriots would be sure to snatch him up.

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DAL - WR Dez Bryant bluffing?

Source: CBSSports.com - Ryan Wilson

Dallas Cowboys WR Dez Bryant has threatened to miss games if he does not receive a long-term deal, but the Cowboys are not budging on their original offers because they believe Bryant is bluffing.

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The Cowboys stared down Demarco Murray all the way to him signing with a division rival, so their mettle is not worth testing in endurance contests. They likely have their number that reflects a high number, but not the highest number for a wide receiver, and Bryant's camp feels they deserve it. They can play out this year under a franchise tag in an attempt to get a better deal next year with less of a chance of being tagged because it is more expensive, but Bryant will also be a year older.

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Source: footballguys.com

[Auto Donk]

Dammit Dez.........

[Grits n' Gravy]

So Rex is just coaching the Jets North now? Same type of team. Good D, good rb, no qb.

[BarkingToad]

A brilliant move by Jason Pierre Paul.

[LT Profits]

A brilliant move by Jason Pierre Paul.

NFL.com's Ian Rapoport reports the Giants pulled a long-term offer to unsigned franchise player Jason Pierre-Paul after he injured his hand in a weekend fireworks accident.

Per Rapsheet, the G-Men "do not believe a long-term offer is in the best interest of those involved at this point." JPP is expected to be okay, but the extent of the damage remains unclear. He appears to be dealing with nerve damage and burns. Pierre-Paul's franchise tag will earn him a cool $14.8 million this season.

Source: NFL.com

[LT Profits]

NYG - DE Jason Pierre-Paul could miss Week 1

Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter

Updating previous reports, New York Giants DE Jason Pierre-Paul (hand) could miss training camp and the start of the regular season, according to a source. Pierre-Paul injured his hand in a fireworks accident and remains hospitalized.

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Owa Odighizuwa was a first-round pick on some boards and might have fallen in the draft more because of long-time worries about a hip issue than his level of play. He could be put on the spot earlier than the team planned on.

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DEN - Lofty expectations for RB C.J. Anderson

Source: The Denver Post - Troy E. Renck

Denver Broncos RB C.J. Anderson is capable of 1,400 rushing yards, in the opinion of The Denver Post's Troy E. Renck. Renck said Anderson will be physically ready for the grind of being the lead running back in new head coach Gary Kubiak's run-blocking scheme.

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Anderson was already the best back on the Broncos roster, now he's in a scheme that usually creates big numbers for the starter. Unless he gets hurt or lets himself go from last year's form, Anderson should be among the top 5 backs in fantasy leagues. His limited track record is causing him to fall to the second in some drafts.

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GB - TE Andrew Quarless safe for now

Source: ESPN.com - Rob Demovsky

Green Bay Packers TE Andrew Quarless will not be released at this time even though he was arrested this past weekend for discharging a firearm in public, according to sources.

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2014 third-round pick Richard Rodgers would be thrust into closer to a full-time role if Quarless is jettisoned. Rodgers seemed to have a chance to gain prominence if Randall Cobb walked in free agency, but Quarless being released would create a similar amount of additional opportunity and put Rodgers in the late-round sleeper TE tier.

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DET - RB Ameer Abdullah the eventual featured back?

Source: Detroit Free Press - Dave Birkett

Detroit Lions rookie RB Ameer Abdullah is expected to eventually take over RB Joique Bell as the Lions' primary running back, according to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press.

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The question is how early. Bell's ADP has been dropping steadily since Abdullah was drafted, and Abdullah's rising, with Abdullah now ahead of Bell in most sources. Bell could become a value if he continues to drop because he should still get some goal line work in any scenario. Theo Riddick also looms as a passing down back, but he could be used in the slot to keep one of the other backs on the field.

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PHI - Chip Kelly good for QB Sam Bradford?

Source: NFL.com - Kevin Patra

Philadelphia Eagles QB Sam Bradford may have his best opportunity yet in Philadelphia under head coach Chip Kelly, according to an anonymous NFL executive. 'If Bradford had gone anywhere else you wouldn't even be talking about him,' the source said. The executive added that there's hope with Kelly and the Eagles after Bradford's struggles with injuries the past couple years. 'Chip Kelly is the one guy who can make Bradford a success.'

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The bottom line here isn't that Kelly is good for Bradford, it's that Kelly is good for QBs period. The exec also said that teammate Mark Sanchez has had "higher highs" than Bradford and "you know what you're getting with Sanchez", so don't construe this as an endorsement of Bradford.

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MIN - QB Teddy Bridgewater talks 2015 season

Source: USA TODAY Sports - Tom Pelissero

Minnesota Vikings QB Teddy Bridgewater said the Vikings still have a long way to go in order to fulfill expectations. 'Right now, we're not as good as what we think,' Bridgewater said. 'We know that the ceiling is very high and the expectation level is very high, not only for the players, but [for the coaches] also. We know what's being asked of us, but we have a long way to go.'

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Despite some worries about his leadership abilities in the pre-draft process, Bridgewater seems to have projected himself as a leader and one that will keep his team's view of itself in check. This also reflects the no nonsense attitude of head coach Mike Zimmer. The Vikings should be considered a sleeper Super Bowl pick this year with Adrian Peterson on board despite Bridgewater's cautionary remarks.

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DAL - Tony Romo talks WR Dez Bryant deal

Source: NFL.com - Kevin Patra

Dallas Cowboys WR Dez Bryant's impending long-term deal is taking a while to get done, but QB Tony Romo believes it will work out. Romo said the NFL is a business, and that Bryant's absence during the offseason is part of that business aspect. However, Romo said he thinks a deal will work out.

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Romo's personality is polite and good-natured. He's not going say anything to call out his teammate or his organization while still projecting vague positivity. He's set up to extract more production out of crazy pass efficiency numbers from 2014 if the Cowboys don't get as much out of their backfield this year.

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SD - Stevie Johnson likely to be used in slot

Source: NBC San Diego -- Derek Togerson

San Diego Chargers WR Stevie Johnson is expected to be used as the slot receiver this season and could see increased targets early in the season because of the suspension to TE Antonio Gates. Johnson said he does not care about where he lines up on offense.

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Johnson is the kind of receiver who should riff well with Philip Rivers. Johnson beats man coverage in key situations and has functioned as #1 earlier in his career. He could have some bye/injury week relevance, or more if Keenan Allen or Malcom Floyd can't stay healthy, and Johnson is an excellent late-round WR in best ball leagues.

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BAL - WR Breshad Perriman hopes to start

Source: The Baltimore Sun - Aaron Wilson

Baltimore Ravens WR Breshad Perriman said he hopes to win a starting job during training camp and wants to make an immediate impact as a deep threat. Perriman said he has been working on improving his route running leading up to training camp.

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Perriman isn't having anything handed to him, and we wouldn't blame the Ravens if they did install him as a starter unconditionally, because his competition is Kamar Aiken and Marlon Brown. Perriman's deep speed should replace the element in the offense that Torrey Smith took with him to San Francisco. Perriman's biggest weakness is inconsistent hands, but Smith wasn't stellar in that area either. The rookie is a good upside WR4/WR5 in the eighth round or later.

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- RB Ray Rice not hearing from teams

Source: ProFootballTalk.com - Mike Florio

Free-agent RB Ray Rice (Ravens) has not received interest from teams this offseason.

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There is a belief that Rice has been basically taken out of consideration for the NFL even though he can still play at a high level. His potential PR hit might be too much for teams to take right now, and if he had another domestic violence incident, the team could never live it down. Perhaps with some more time passed a team will give him a chance, but in the meantime, Rice isn't getting any younger. It might be time to drop him in typical dynasty leagues.

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DEN - RB Montee Ball likely in backup role

Source: The Denver Post - Troy E. Renck

Denver Broncos RB Montee Ball is expected to receive seven or eight carries a game, while RB C.J. Anderson serves as the bellcow with 18 per game, in the opinion of beat writer Troy E. Renck.

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Ball is just a handcuff to Anderson at this point, and Ronnie Hillman could share the job with him if Anderson does go down. Ball's dynasty stock has never been lower, so if you're still a believer, now is the time to act. In redraft, he's only worth a pick in deeper leagues or if you have misgivings about Anderson.

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OAK - RB Roy Helu impressing coach

Source: Raiders.com

Oakland Raiders RB Roy Helu had an 'outstanding' offseason and showed good quickness, awareness and hands, according to offensive line coach Mike Tice.

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Some in the fantasy world were excited at the prospect of Helu getting more opportunity after signing elsewhere in free agency. While he did land on a team without an established feature back, it seems unlikely that Helu will overtake both Latavius Murray and Trent Richardson to get more than passing down work. He has appeal as a late-round best ball running back because of his receiving ability, but that's about while Helu is mired in a poor offense behind two bigger runners.

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Source: footballguys.com

[Grits n' Gravy]

Anderson being set up to be a huge bust based on hype.

[LT Profits]

Anderson being set up to be a huge bust based on hype.

I will gladly take him in the second round if he falls to me there. I think he is for real.

[Wrigley]

A brilliant move by Jason Pierre Paul.

What a idiot fireworks is so teen stuff

[BigSpoon]

Think Ray Rice's career is over. I think he deserves a second chance but doubt he'll get one since his crime was captured on video.

[BarkingToad]

What a idiot fireworks is so teen stuff

Especially since he didn't sign a contract yet. He may face criminal charges as well. A neighbor was concerned for the safety of their house because Pierre-Paul had a Uhaul van filled with fireworks. Bet there's details we don't know yet JPP is hoping doesn't get out.

[LT Profits]

NYG - DE Jason Pierre-Paul won't get new offer

Source: New York Daily News - Ralph Vacchiano

New York Giants DE Jason Pierre-Paul (hand) won't receive a long-term contract offer from the team this year after injuring his hand in a fireworks accident, according to a team source. His only option will be to sign the one-year, $14.813 franchise tender, which the team is not considering rescinding.

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Pierre-Paul's story is showing the downside of trying to win long-term deal negotiations at the margin. Of course, there might have been a clause that voided the contract if Pierre-Paul had a serious injury in a prohibited activity, but this will still be a very costly incident for him. That the Giants haven't pulled the unsigned franchise tag offer is a good sign for Pierre-Paul's availability this year.

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PHI - WR Nelson Agholor has No. 1 potential

Source: NJ Advance Media - Mark Eckel

Philadelphia Eagles WR Nelson Agholor is expected to thrive for Philadelphia in his rookie season, according to an anonymous NFL executive. 'He'll come in and produce right away. He has the right mentality and just a great approach to the game,' the source said. 'He's going to help them. And in that offense, he'll put up numbers.'

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Agholor seems to have the inside track to replace Jeremy Maclin in the downfield outside receiver role that Maclin and DeSean Jackson turned into low WR1 numbers in 2013 and 2014. He could easily outproduce Jordan Matthews, who looks like he'll be relegated mostly to slot duty at this moment. Agholor is going at least two rounds after Matthews, so he might be the best Eagles WR to target in early drafts.

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PHI - WR Josh Huff having good offseason

Source: NJ Advance Media - Mark Eckel

Philadelphia Eagles WR Josh Huff performed well during organized team activities and minicamp this offseason.

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Huff is in the mix with Miles Austin to steal snaps from Riley Cooper on the outside and help first-round pick Nelson Agholor replace the snaps and targets vacated by Jeremy Maclin. Huff can line up in the slot and backfield, too, so he could contribute enough to matter in fantasy leagues if he becomes one of the primary outside receivers. He was coached by Chip Kelly at Oregon, so keep Huff on your waiver wire speed dial if he doesn't generate a ton of hype during the preseason.

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BAL - WR Breshad Perriman talks drops

Source: The Baltimore Sun - Aaron Wilson

Baltimore Ravens rookie WR Breshad Perriman said he's taking a mental approach to working on his issue of dropped passes. 'It's really all mental,' Perriman said. 'I talk to myself, tell myself the things that I need to do to complete those passes and just try to step it up a notch more.'

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Mental/concentration drops are certainly easier to stomach and fix than ones based on bad technique or ball skills. Perriman will be a boom/bust option this year, with more boom than bust if he can be better at converting deep targets to catches than Torrey Smith was.

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NYG - DE Jason Pierre-Paul to start on NFI list?

Source: BleacherReport.com - Jason Cole

New York Giants DE Jason Pierre-Paul (hand) could begin the season on the Non-Football Injury list. Pierre-Paul injured his hand in a fireworks accident over the holiday weekend.

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Pierre-Paul would not get paid for the time he would miss on the NFL list, which would be at least six games, similar to the PUP list. The Giants would then have three weeks to decide whether to activate Pierre-Paul. The league will have to approve this status since Pierre-Paul was not technically under contract when the injury happened, and Pierre-Paul may wait to sign his franchise tender until he can play to avoid losing salary in this scenario.

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GB - Richard Rodgers, TE Andrew Quarless to compete

Source: ESPN.com - Rob Demovsky

Green Bay Packers TEs Richard Rodgers and Andrew Quarless are expected to competer for the starting tight end job this year. Quarless caught 29 passes for 323 yards and three touchdowns in 2014. However, he could be subject to discipline under the league's personal conduct policy after being arrested over the weekend for discharging a firearm in public.

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Rodgers would have a chance to get a leg up on Quarless if he misses time early in the season due to a suspension, but chances are the tight end position for Green Bay will remain on the fringe of fantasy-relevant situations despite the high quality of the pass offense.

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DEN - WR Demaryius Thomas wants Calvin Johnson type deal
Source: The Denver Post - Troy E. Renck
Denver Broncos WR Demaryius Thomas is looking for a deal similar to Detroit Lions WR Calvin Johnson's deal that averages $16 million per season with $48 million guaranteed.
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Thomas, and every other highly productive player, should push for contracts that reflect the highest-ever paid out at their position. The cap is about to go up over the next few years, so old pay scales shouldn't apply to new deals.
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Source: footballguys.com

[Grits n' Gravy]

I will gladly take him in the second round if he falls to me there. I think he is for real.

I like his game too but the same hype was being shown to Monte last preseason and look how that played out.

[LT Profits]

I like his game too but the same hype was being shown to Monte last preseason and look how that played out.

But CJ already showed how much better he is than Ball last year, whereas Ball's hype was all because of his college success.

[LT Profits]

NYG - DE Jason Pierre-Paul has finger amputated
Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter

New York Giants DE Jason Pierre-Paul (hand) had his right index finger amputated Wednesday, July 8, per medical charts obtained by ESPN.

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There is also more damage to his arm, and presumably his hand, so the book is still open on the short and long-term effects to Pierre-Paul. Pass rushers use their hands extensively to attack and fend off blockers, so extensive issues with one hand will make Pierre-Paul's game take a hit for sure.

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DAL - No deal imminent for WR Dez Bryant

Source: ProFootballTalk.com - Mike Florio

Dallas Cowboys WR Dez Bryant has not had a lot of contract talks with the team and there is no deal imminent at this point, according to a source. The team has until July 15 to sign Bryant to a long-term contract extension.

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The Cowboys showed their mettle in the Demarco Murray negotiations, so Bryant playing this year under his franchise tender is very possible. Either way, we'd bet on him being on the field for Week 1.

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DET - TE Eric Ebron's a tight end to watch

Source: The Detroit News

Detroit Lions TE Eric Ebron could be in for a big year in 2015, according to Chris Burke of Sports Illustrated. Burke notes rookie tight ends typically struggle, and that Ebron should have a much bigger role in the offense in his second year in the league.

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Ebron still wasn't much of a touchdown scorer at North Carolina, and he'll be at best on the third level of the pecking order for targets with the running back trio after Calvin Johnson and Golden Tate get theirs. He's an upside backup tight end for deep leagues.

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WAS - RB Alfred Morris has played consistently

Source: NFL

Washington Redskins RB Alfred Morris has rushed for at least 1,000 yards and seven touchdowns in each of his first three seasons. On average, Morris has rushed for 1,320.6 yards and 9.3 touchdowns.

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Morris's year-end numbers are somewhat consistent, but game to game is rough because of his lack of involvement in the passing game and Washington falling on hard times as a team. He's just a boom/bust RB2 with less appeal in PPR leagues.

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SD - TE Ladarius Green playing faster

Source: Chargers.com - Hayley Elwood

San Diego Chargers TE Ladarius Green has looked faster than he's ever been, according to QB Philip Rivers. Rivers said he believes the main reason Green is playing faster is because he's more confident and feels more comfortable with the offense.

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Green has usually been the subject of positive talk any time the Chargers have commented on him, but opportunities have been few and far between on the field. That will change this year with Antonio Gates' suspension for the first four games. Green is a great late-round pick to see if he breaks out in his fourth year. When Gates has missed time in recent years, Rivers has hooked up with Randy McMichael for a two score game and Dante Rosario for a three score game, so weekly upside is there for Green.

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PHI - RB DeMarco Murray solid in passing game

Source: NFL

Philadelphia Eagles RB DeMarco Murray was one of two running backs with at least 40 targets last season that caught 89% of those targets. He caught 57 of his 64 targets. The other running back was Oakland Raiders RB Roy Helu.

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Murray might not be used as much in the passing game in Philadelphia. Darren Sproles will soak up the majority of the receiving attempts out of the backfield. This was a problem for LeSean McCoy's value last year and combines with overuse worries from last year to keep Murray in the late first or early second.

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NE - WR Brandon LaFell out of walking boot

Source: ESPNBoston.com - Mike Reiss

New England Patriots WR Brandon LaFell (undisclosed) said he is out of the walking boot he was wearing earlier this offseason. LaFell said he was dealing with some nagging injuries from the season and was giving the injuries time to heal. He has been trying to improve this offseason by working with QB Tom Brady and improving his knowledge of the playbook.

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The Patriots are not forthcoming about injuries, so this is a relief. LaFell was surprisingly productive once he got integrated into the offense last year - putting up WR2 numbers for most of the season. He is available for WR3/WR4 price right now, which is a value even with Jimmy Garoppolo starting four games for New England at quarterback as of this moment.

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CHI - RB Matt Forte took step back running

Source: USA TODAY Fantasy Sports

Chicago Bears RB Matt Forte averaged 3.9 yards per rush in 2014, which is the lowest figure since 2009.

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The Bears were an abysmal offense last year, but Forte still put up high RB1 numbers in PPR leagues because of the way head coach Marc Trestman favored his backs as receivers. John Fox and Adam Gase might not continue that trend as strongly, and Forte could fall to the back half of the RB1 ranks, making him a shaky pick in the top 6-8.

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NYG - WR Victor Cruz likely to avoid PUP

Source: ProFootballTalk.com - Josh Alper

New York Giants WR Victor Cruz (knee) has said all offseason he expects to be ready to go for training camp. He said Tuesday, July 7, that everyone with a say in the matter also feels confident Cruz will avoid the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list when the team reports to camp. 'I don't think PUP will be an option,' Cruz said.

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This is better than expected news for Cruz, who merits a pick in the 10th or later on the development. If he is even 70-80% of the player he was pre-injury, he'll have value with Odell Beckham drawing coverage. Larry Donnell and Rueben Randle would lose value if Cruz is ready to resume his old starting role come Week 1, but the Giants offense as a whole will benefit.

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Source: footballguys.com

[LT Profits]

NE - QB Tom Brady appeal ruling near

Source: CNBC

New England Patriots QB Tom Brady's appeal ruling of a four-game suspension could come as early as next week, according to commissioner Roger Goodell.

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It can only be neutral to positive for Brady and the Patriots. A four-game suspension has already been priced into Brady's ADP, so if his suspension is reduced, those who drafted him lately will get extra value.

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CIN - WR A.J. Green not concerned about contract

Source: ESPN.com - Coley Harvey

Cincinnati Bengals WR A.J. Green said he is not worried that he is entering the final year of his contract and is willing to play out the season. 'I don't get into all the 'I need a contract' stuff,'' Green said. 'I'm not here for money. I'm not broke. So I'm fine. I can wait until the end of the year to get a contract, but I know that time is coming.'

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Green might not have quite the production of his peers because of Andy Dalton, an offense that prefers to run if they control the game, and the return of Tyler Eifert and Marvin Jones. The Bengals have been very fiscally disciplined, but they also generally have retained and taken care of their best players. Green should get one of the top WR contracts in the league next year.

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CHI - QB Jay Cutler works out with teammates

Source: Chicago Sun-Times - Blair Sheade

Chicago Bears QB Jay Cutler worked out with some of his offensive teammates at Vanderbilt University this week. WR Eddie Royal, WR Kevin White and TE Martellus Bennett were among the players in attendance.

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Cutler is basically on his last leg in Chicago and only held onto his job because of the guaranteed money the team has invested in him that made him untradeable. Royal had his best year of his career with Cutler, and White can be an instant hit with his size, speed, and toughness, so Cutler is bringing together some of his oldest and newest weapons. He's an upside play as a QB2, but one that could be rendered worthless with a benching.

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NE - RB James White could break out

Source: Patriots.com - Paul Perillo

New England Patriots RB James White is expected to make a jump in his second year in the NFL, according to Paul Perillo of Patriots Football Weekly.

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White will compete with Travaris Cadet and Dion Lewis for the receiving back role vacated by Shane Vereen in free agency, with veteran Brandon Bolden potentially in the mix. Don't expect any of them to replicate Vereen's production, but they could be interesting DFS plays when the matchup dictates less running and more passing by the Patriots.

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WAS - HC excited about Robert Griffin

Source: CSNWashington.com - Tarik El-Bashir

Washington Redskins QB Robert Griffin III's progress this offseason has head coach Jay Gruden excited. Gruden said Griffin improved during organized team activities, adding that the more comfortable Griffin becomes with the terminology and reads, the more he'll keep improving. Gruden also said that Griffin has taken over as a leader, but that the team and coaching staff still need to be patient with him.

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This is a change in tone from Gruden's previous remarks about Griffin. His running ability gives Griffin a high ceiling for a late-round QB, and if he has really turned things around, DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon will benefit, along with more run-friendly game scripts for Alfred Morris. We're open to a bounce back by Griffin, but we'll need to see it to believe it.

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DET - Detroit RBs to make dynamic duo?

Source: DetroitLions.com - Tim Twentyman

Detroit Lions RBs Joique Bell and rookie Ameer Abdullah are expected to form a one-two punch in the Lions' backfield this year. Head coach Jim Caldwell is supposedly set on running the ball more in 2015.

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Bell's ADP has been declining and Abdullah's has been rising to the point that Abdullah is ahead of Bell in most drafts. If Abdullah gets more of the receiving touches and Bell gets the goal-line carries, they could be at similar production levels, making Bell a slight value. Abdullah has the appeal of unknown upside, and he could be the kind of player that makes your season if Bell wears down.

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IND - Indy to spread the field more?

Source: IndySportsCentral.com - Mike Chappell

Indianapolis Colts QB Andrew Luck and Co. are expected to spread the field more this season with three-and four-wide receiver sets.

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Luck was already the most valuable fantasy quarterback this year. His weapons have been upgraded, but his defense really hasn't, so Luck could set the bar even higher this year. If your league lets him fall to the third round, abandon the plan of waiting on QB.

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MIN - WR Mike Wallace has struggled vs. NFC

Source: NFL

Minnesota Vikings WR Mike Wallace has gained just 65.29 yards per game in 24 games against NFC teams over his six-year career.

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Wallace could resume at his low WR3/Flex levels with Teddy Bridgewater, but it's also possible he establishes better chemistry than he had with Ryan Tannehill. Adrian Peterson is an ideal running back to set up deep shots in play action, and Norv Turner likes the vertical passing game, so Wallace could improve those numbers - which still average out to over 1000 yards in a full season.

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MIN - RB Jerick McKinnon may be third-down RB

Source: Minneapolis Star Tribune - Master Tesfatsion

Minnesota Vikings RB Jerick McKinnon could see some playing time on third downs with RB Adrian Peterson returning as the starting running back.

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Don't think this will affect Peterson's value significantly. He will still be one of the most used RBs in the league. McKinnon is forced to wait at least another year before he gets a significant opportunity in Minnesota.

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NE - QB Jimmy Garoppolo making progress

Source: NFL.com - Conor Orr

New England Patriots QB Jimmy Garoppolo has made a lot of progress since last season and performed well during offseason workouts, according to WR Brandon LaFell. 'Jimmy has grown a lot since he first stepped foot up there in Foxborough last year,' LaFell said. 'He got a little experience during the later part of the season against Buffalo; he showed a little glimpse of what he can do. He's been having a nice OTAs, a nice offseason with us.'

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Garoppolo is unlikely to ring up huge stats in the first four games of the year, but he should also be functional enough to make Rob Gronkowski and Julian Edelman viable starts. Matt Cassel was adequate to start and got better as the year went on when Tom Brady went down in 2008, and Garoppolo will have had the benefit of months of specific preparation as the starter instead of being thrown in like Cassel was. If he has a dirt cheap price in DFS lineups those first few weeks, we'll be looking at him as an option.

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NFL - DE Ray McDonald charged with felony

Source: San Francisco Chronicle - Eric Branch

Free-agent DE Ray McDonald (Bears) has been charged with felony false imprisonment stemming from an domestic violence incident that involved a woman and an infant.

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McDonald's chances in the NFL were likely used up, and now the chances of him ending up behind bars are going up.

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STL - Select Isaiah Battle in supplemental draft

Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter
Clemson OT Isaiah Battle was selected by the St. Louis Rams in the fifth-round of the NFL supplemental draft Thursday, July 9.
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Battle is a project with the length and movement skills to be a left tackle in the NFL. He has to develop more strength and consistency and there are also character concerns about Battle, but his upside and body type are worth giving a shot. The Rams have some serious offensive line woes, but at least they have devoted five draft picks to the unit this year.
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Source: footballguys.com

[mpaschal34]

after two full years with a high work load....i have a feeling forte could end up hurt this year.

[Grits n' Gravy]

As long as Gronk is healthy Pats offense will be above average no matter who is playing qb.

[BarkingToad]

Imagine that, another NFL player arrested.

[mpaschal34]

What a idiot fireworks is so teen stuff

At least he wasn't stupid enough to shoot it off his head like that idiot in Maine.

[LT Profits]

DAL - DE Greg Hardy's suspension reduced

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

Dallas Cowboys DE Greg Hardy's 10-game suspension was reduced to four games Friday, July 10, after he appealed the ruling.

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This is a good development for the Cowboys, who will now have Hardy for 12 games. Tom Brady's four-game suspension looks especially harsh when it is equal to Hardy's for domestic violence, so that could factor into the decision about the final length of Brady's suspension.

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HOU - Houston has close QB competition

Source: ESPN.com - Tania Ganguli

Houston Texans QBs Ryan Mallett and Brian Hoyer are competing for the starting quarterback job and there is no clear favorite for the job, according to head coach Bill O'Brien. Hoyer appeared to be more comfortable than Mallett during offseason workouts.

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Hoyer has more experience in O'Brien's system from his time in New England, but Mallett has the better arm and more experience with the Texans. Either way, this will be one of the bottom five QB situations in the NFL.

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NFL - NFLPA investigating Dallas, Denver

Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter

The NFL Players Association is investigating the Dallas Cowboys and Denver Broncos about possible collusion involving WR Dez Bryant and WR Demaryius Thomas. The NFLPA believes the Cowboys and Broncos talked about their unsigned wide receivers, which is not allowed in the collective bargaining agreement. They are trying to determine if collusion occurred and if they will file a claim.

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This practice happens unofficially, or even without communication, so it will be hard to prove unless there is a digital or paper trail of dispatches between the two teams. While the CBA prohibits collusion, teams use other contracts as a guide and generally self-police about not blowing up the curve for other teams.

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HOU - RB Alfred Blue works with Arian Foster

Source: ESPN.com - Tania Ganguli

Houston Texans RB Alfred Blue has been working with RB Arian Foster on improving his skills on third downs. Blue could see playing time on third downs this season.

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Blue is going to be a dogfight with free agent pick Chris Polk for the backup RB spot. Polk is a better receiver and Blue wasn't impressive in his audition last year when Foster went down, so monitor this situation throughout the summer because Foster's handcuff is one of the more valuable backups in the league.

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MIA - RB Jay Ajayi expected to make team

Source: ESPN.com - James Walker

Miami Dolphins RB Jay Ajayi is expected to make the final roster out of training camp.

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It would be shocking if the top 100 talent didn't. He might have a larger role in 2016 when Lamar Miller is a free agent, but for now consider the multi-talented Ajayi the backup to Miller with potential to be more. Ajayi was considered a top 5 running back in this class by a lot of draft analysts but fell in the draft because of a knee issue that could be a long-term problem.

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PHI - QB Mark Sanchez holding workouts

Source: The Star-Ledger - Eliot Shorr-Parks

Philadelphia Eagles QB Mark Sanchez is hosting workouts in San Diego with teammates. RB Darren Sproles, RB Ryan Mathews, WR Jordan Matthews, QB Matt Barkley, QB/WR G.J. Kinne, WR Quron Pratt, WR Rasheed Bailey, WR Seyi Ajirotutu and TE Andrew Gleichert were in attendance.

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More important than Sanchez creating extra chemistry with his teammates, this is also Sanchez acting more like a leader and a starter. We'll see if Chip Kelly honors the principle of open competition, especially if Bradford gets an extension before camp opens. Jordan Matthews is picking up right where he left off with respect to his on-field relationship with Sanchez, which means we'll need to upgrade him if Sanchez somehow ends up the starter.

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SF - RB Carlos Hyde tough to bring down

Source: NFL.com - Kevin Patra

San Francisco 49ers RB Carlos Hyde forced missed tackles on 30.1% of his 83 carries last season, putting him just below Seattle Seahawks RB Marshawn Lynch's rate of 31.4%.

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Hyde is a talented enough back to be a quality fantasy play if he is on a team that can control game scripts and feed him carries, but this 49ers team does not seem to be the group to do that. Reggie Bush will soak up passing down work, leaving Hyde as a matchup RB2/Flex who is going too high in drafts on the promise of a breakout year.

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CHI - WR Marquess Wilson proving to be versatile

Source: ChicagoFootball.com - Arthur Arkush

Chicago Bears WR Marquess Wilson can 'play all over' the field, according to offensive coordinator Adam Gase.

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Wilson will be pushed by first-round pick Kevin White, and the reality is that White taking over is a matter of when, not if. His dynasty appeal is starting to wane.

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Source: footballguys.com

[mr. leisure]

This is a good development for the Cowboys, who will now have Hardy for 12 games. Tom Brady's four-game suspension looks especially harsh when it is equal to Hardy's for domestic violence, so that could factor into the decision about the final length of Brady's suspension.

Tom brady`s suspension will be reduced for sure now .

[Grits n' Gravy]

At least he wasn't stupid enough to shoot it off his head like that idiot in Maine.

So no call for tougher legislations on firework sales from JPP's mom like the moron from Maine?

[Auto Donk]

i saw a video of brady lighting a sparkler up giselle's ass.... the 4 game suspension will stand

[Wrigley]

So no call for tougher legislations on firework sales from JPP's mom like the moron from Maine?

Her son just cost the family millions hope they had a good 4th

[mpaschal34]

interesting numbers on hyde....just seems when i watched him he'd go down pretty easy. guess i missed a lot of great plays by him.

[BarkingToad]

How does Greg Hardy getting his suspension reduced mean Tom Brady will get his reduced?

[LT Profits]

How does Greg Hardy getting his suspension reduced mean Tom Brady will get his reduced?

Because as of right now, the punishments are equal despite Hardy actually committing a crime (domestic assault).

[BarkingToad]

Because as of right now, the punishments are equal despite Hardy actually committing a crime (domestic assault).

Really? Getting reduced from 25 games to 19 games on a case that was dismissed is the same punishment as someone who was cheating? Does anyone know what the number 1 job of a commissioner is?

[LT Profits]

MIA - QB impressed with WR Greg Jennings

Source: The Miami Herald - Barry Jackson

Miami Dolphins WR Greg Jennings has impressed QB Ryan Tannehill with his route running. 'It's unbelievable how he can break corners down, with his savviness of how to get guys leaning,' Tannehill said. Head coach Joe Philbin also noted Jennings 'has been a quarterback-friendly type of receiver through his career. He catches the ball with his hands very well. ... He's a good route runner, crisp. He knows how to come in and out of his breaks well.'

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Jennings will be excellent role model for Kenny Stills and DeVante Parker, with Jarvis Landry already providing the same kind of security via routes and ball skills that Jennings does. Jennings could be as high as #2 in the pecking order to begin the season, but will probably fade as the season progresses. He's only relevant in very deep leagues, but should help the Miami offense more than he helps fantasy teams.

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SD - WR Keenan Allen overlooked in red zone

Source: NFL.com - Marcas Grant

San Diego Chargers WR Keenan Allen's red zone targets fell from 19 in 2013 to 12 last year, and he caught just 18 passes that went at least 10 yards through the air a year ago compared to 29 in 2013.

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Allen was banged up for most of 2014, which hasn't really been priced into his 2015 draft stock. Most saw Allen as an ascendant player on the verge of WR1 status heading into last year, which got him into the third round of drafts. Now with Antonio Gates out for the first four games, Allen could easily lead the team in targets for that stretch and re-establish himself as the primary option, including in the red zone. Allen becomes a decent value if he falls to the sixth round of your draft, and a solid pick in the fifth.

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DAL - Dallas dismisses collusion talk

Source: Fort Worth Star-Telegram - Charean Williams

Dallas Cowboys WR Dez Bryant and Denver Broncos WR Demaryius Thomas' contract situations are under investigation by the NFL to determine whether the two teams colluded. A Cowboys source said 'there's nothing to it,' when asked about the investigation.

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The Cowboys were docked 10 million dollars in cap space for skirting league rules in 2012 regarding restructuring deals during the uncapped year of 2010, so we'll wait for official word before dismissing these claims.

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STL - WR Brian Quick making progress

Source: ESPN.com - Nick Wagoner

St. Louis Rams WR Brian Quick (shoulder) is making good progress in his recovery from shoulder surgery and was able to participate in individual drills during offseason workouts. Quick may be able to participate in team drills at some point during training camp and could be ready for Week 1 if he does not suffer any setbacks.

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Quick had a more serious shoulder injury than most, which is part of the reason the team re-signed Kenny Britt. While his long-term outlook is still sunny, the Rams offensive line and passing game might not support Quick being more than a bye/injury/emergency option this year.

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Source: footballguys.com

[Auto Donk]

Really? Getting reduced from 25 games to 19 games on a case that was dismissed is the same punishment as someone who was cheating? Does anyone know what the number 1 job of a commissioner is?

having been charged with an assault back in law school where i never even touched the crazy broad, I say reduce his to zero.........