[LT Profits]

Courtesy of Footballguys.com


NO - WR Michael Thomas torches Philly

Source: ESPN.com

New Orleans Saints WR Michael Thomas caught 12 of his 16 targets for 171 yards and a touchdown in a 20-14 win over the Philadelphia Eagles in the divisional round Sunday, Jan. 13.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Thomas seemed unstoppable at times with a monster game in the Saints biggest game thus far.


PHI - WR Alshon Jeffery targeted seven times

Source: 1 No Source

Philadelphia Eagles WR Alshon Jeffery registered five grabs for 63 yards on seven targets in the NFC Divisional Round playoff game loss against the New Orleans Saints, but his costly drop inside of two minutes led to an interception by CB Marshon Lattimore to seal the loss.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Rough way to end the year for Jeffery. His five catches were important but the dropped pass will be what's remembered.


NE - TE Rob Gronkowski held to one catch

Source: NFL.com

New England Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski caught one pass for 25 yards against the Los Angeles Chargers in the Divisional Round playoff game.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

The win ensures that it wasn't his swan song, but Gronkowski continues to struggle to be a factor in the Patriots pass offense.


NE - RB James White catches 15 passes

Source: NFL.com

New England Patriots RB James White caught 15 passes for 97 yards against the Los Angeles Chargers in the Divisional Round playoff game.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

White was the engine of the first drive and stole easy yards in the passing game all day. He's resuming his history of being a bigger part of the offense in the postseason.


NE - WR Julian Edelman surpasses 100-yard mark

Source: NFL.com

New England Patriots WR Julian Edelman caught nine passes for 151 yards against the Los Angeles Chargers in the Divisional Round playoff game.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Edelman was hot right out of the gate and the Chargers had no answer for him in the secondary. He'll be a prime matchup for the Patriots against Chiefs next week.


NE - Three touchdowns for RB Sony Michel

Source: NFL.com

New England Patriots RB Sony Michel rushed for 129 yards and three touchdowns on 24 carries against the Los Angeles Chargers in the Divisional Round playoff game.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Michel and the running game pushed the Chargers around. He'll be central again next week against the Chiefs.


LAC - TE Antonio Gates scores in playoff game

Source: 1 No Source

Los Angeles Chargers TE Antonio Gates registered five receptions for 41 yards with a touchdown on eight targets in the AFC Divisional Round playoff game loss Sunday, Jan. 13.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

It should be Gates last game. He was all-time great who helped redefine the position and increase its potential fantasy value.


LAC - WR Tyrell Williams just misses 100 yards

Source: 1 No Source

Los Angeles Chargers WR Tyrell Williams registered five receptions for 94 yards on seven targets in the AFC Divisional Round playoff game loss against the New England Patriots on Sunday, Jan. 13.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Williams will enter free agency and probably be coveted and signed to play a big role somewhere with a weak free agent wide receiver class.


LAC - RB Melvin Gordon gets into end zone

Source: 1 No Source

Los Angeles Chargers RB Melvin Gordon ran nine times for 15 yards and a touchdown in the AFC Divisional Round playoff game loss against the New England Patriots and he added an 11-yard reception.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Gordon was a non-factor as injuries piled up in the late part of the season. The Chargers should be thinking extension with Gordon entering his fifth-year option season turning 26 in April.


LAC - QB Philip Rivers comes up short

Source: 1 No Source

Los Angeles Chargers QB Philip Rivers completed 25-of-51 passes for 331 yards, three touchdowns and one interception in the AFC Divisional Round playoff game loss against the New England Patriots on Sunday, Jan. 13.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Rivers had a strong start and then was powerless to help his team stay in this game. His stats came mostly in garbage time in a disappointing long-awaited return to the divisional round for Rivers.


IND - WR T.Y. Hilton had been dealing with ankle sprains

Source: Indianapolis Star - Joel A. Erickson

Indianapolis Colts WR T.Y. Hilton (ankle) revealed after the team's loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in the Divisional Round playoff game that he had been playing through low and high sprains on the same ankle. However, he is expected to make a full recovery by the start of next season without needing to undergo surgery.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Hilton had one of the gutsiest seasons in recent memory, playing well through multiple injuries, often with no practice. He'll be a second round pick at worst next year.


NE - TE Rob Gronkowski contemplating retirement?

Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

New England Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski is expected to consider retiring at the end of the season.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Gronkowski is clearly in decline with his lateral agility almost non-existent and at the center of the memorable play of the year. Denver could be in play if he doesn't retire according to our Cecil Lammey.


Souedce: footballguys.com

[Otters27]

how many clutch 3rd down catches did thomas have. Really was the difference in the game. Hope Gronkowski goes to the Broncos for one more year

[mpaschal34]

Gronk has previously said he would only catch passes from Brady or retire. Maybe he will change his mind.

On a different note...was funny hearing Tony Romo suck Gronk’s d!ck so much. Every other play it was about how great he was blocking. It was as if Gronk was blocking all the Chargers by himself.

[jrgum3]

I think this is Gronk’s last season. He’s banged up all the time and becoming less of a threat in the passing game. Wouldn’t surprise me if he retired.

[LT Profits]

Bills | Robert Foster in rare air as a rookie
Buffalo Bills WR Robert Foster led the NFL with 20 yards per catch (minimum 25 receptions) and is one of only four players since 2015 to record three 100-yard receiving games in their rookie season.
Link to story


Chiefs | Spencer Ware day-to-day
Kansas City Chiefs RB Spencer Ware (hamstring) is considered day-to-day because of his hamstring injury, according to head coach Andy Reid.
Link to story
Spencer Ware player page


Colts | Deon Cain may push for starting job
Indianapolis Colts WR Deon Cain (knee) could be an option for the No. 2 receiver job next season if he can recover from his torn anterior cruciate ligament.
Link to story
Deon Cain player page


Saints | Mark Ingram wants to stay
New Orleans Saints impending free-agent RB Mark Ingram has expressed his desire to remain with the team that drafted him eight years ago.

Footballguys view: Ingram had back-to-back 1,000 yard seasons in 2016 and 2017 but 2018 saw him play in only 12 games due to a suspension. He finished the 2018 regular season with 138 carries for 645 rushing yard and six touchdowns. Ingram said he loves the team, the organization and the city.

Link to story
Mark Ingram II player page


Redskins | Washington wants Jamison Crowder back
Washington Redskins impending free-agent WR Jamison Crowder, despite his struggles and injury concerns, could demand a contract worth at least $8 million this offseason. Nonetheless, head coach Jay Gruden wants to try to retain Crowder. 'There is really not anything that Jamison can't do,' Gruden said. 'You look at his size and say he's little, but he plays big. He's got great quickness in intermediate routes, can separate, has good hands, he's tough, he's physical in the running game.'

Footballguys view: Crowder could stay with the team for a good price. While talented, Crowder has been oft-injured as a pro and that might keep the market for his services somewhat cool. Crowder played better later in the year, but he was hampered by an ankle injury that caused him to miss seven games.

Link to story
Jamison Crowder player page


Kyler Murray declares for draft
Oklahoma QB Kyler Murray announced Monday, Jan. 14, that he will forego his senior season to enter the 2019 NFL Draft. The decision is not set in stone, however, as Murray can still choose to pursue professional baseball.

Footballguys view: This is the way he has been leaning for quite some time. Murray, the 2018 Heisman Trophy winner, is electric with the ball in his hands and can make crazy off-platform passes seem like good ideas. He's small, measuring in at 5'10" 195 pounds but he can run and throw on the run with accuracy. Murray is likely to be a first-round pick in the 2019 NFL draft.

Link to story


Chiefs | Sammy Watkins unscathed
Kansas City Chiefs WR Sammy Watkins (foot) said his foot feels fine following the Chiefs' divisional playoff win, according to head coach Andy Reid.

Footballguys view: The Chiefs were able to get Watkins on the field for the Divisional Round against the Colts where he finished with six catches for 62 yards. Watkins is sore from playing, but his foot injury did not worsen.

Link to story
Sammy Watkins player page


Bears | Chicago could move on from Cody Parkey
Chicago Bears PK Cody Parkey is signed through the 2021 season, but general manager Ryan Pace told reporters Monday, Jan. 14, that he knows the team has to get better at the kicker position and will make sure there is competition at that spot in 2019.
Link to story
Cody Parkey player page

Bears | Chicago unsure about pursing Kareem Hunt
Free-agent RB Kareem Hunt (Chiefs) reportedly spoke to Chicago Bears head coach Matt Nagy by phone one week ago, but the team remains noncommittal on the idea of pursuing Hunt at this point, according to Jeff Dickerson of ESPN.com.

Footballguys view: We'll have a better feel about the potential interest in Hunt once the length of his suspension is revealed. Hunt is currently undergoing investigation for three off-field incidents, including the one that got him booted from the Chiefs in the 2018 season.

Link to story
Kareem Hunt player page


Colts | Jacoby Brissett unlikely to get traded
Indianapolis Colts QB Jacoby Brissett appears unlikely to be traded during the offseason, as general manager Chris Ballard admitted Monday, Jan. 14, that 'it would take somebody doing something that would blow me away, and it has to be the right thing for the kid, too.'

Footballguys view: Ballard revealed he turned down offers for Brissett during the 2018 season. The Colts have Brissett under contract through the 2019 season, so they may not be trading him now...but that doesn't mean he might not be available before the 2019 trade deadline.

Link to story
Jacoby Brissett player page


Bears | Anthony Miller to have shoulder surgery
Chicago Bears WR Anthony Miller (shoulder) will undergo surgery on his left shoulder at some point during the offseason, according to general manager Ryan Pace.

Footballguys view: Miller fought this shoulder problem for most of his rookie season in 2018. He finished the year with 33 catches for 423 yards and seven touchdowns. His future is bright in the pros, especially as he'll continue to build chemistry with QB Mitchell Trubisky.

Link to story


NFL | TJ Hockenson bolting for NFL
University of Iowa TE TJ Hockenson announced his intention to declare for the 2019 NFL Draft on Monday, Jan. 14.

Footballguys view: This means two Iowa tight ends will be available in the 2019 NFL draft because Noah Fant also declared. While Fant is seen as a first-round pick, Hockenson might be a mid-round pick. He caught 49 passes for a team-best 760 yards and six touchdowns as a redshirt sophomore.

Link to story


49ers | Antonio Brown eyeing trade to San Fran?
Pittsburgh Steelers WR Antonio Brown wants to join the San Francisco 49ers 'really badly,' according to Hall of Famer Jerry Rice, who spoke with 95.7 The Game during an interview Monday, Jan. 14.

Footballguys view: The 49ers could certainly use a talent like Brown at the wide receiver position. Rice and Brown have reportedly 'often communicated in the past' and did so during a FaceTime chat Sunday, Jan. 13. Any team interested in Brown is going to have to surrender a second-round pick (at least) to the Steelers. Brown has a cap hit of $22.1 million in 2019 with $21.1 million remaining in dead money on his current contract.

Link to story
Antonio Brown player page


Source: footballguys.com

[mpaschal34]

Murray...5’10”. Yeah right.

[jrgum3]

If I were Murray I’d focus on baseball. I don’t think he lasts long in the NFL given his size but that’s just my opinion.

[LT Profits]

Murray...5’10”. Yeah right.

Was he wearing his girlfriend's high-heel shoes?

[LT Profits]

CAR - QB Cam Newton in danger of missing 2019?

Source: ESPN.com - David Newton

Carolina Panthers QB Cam Newton (shoulder) is not guaranteed to play at all in 2019 as the team considers all of its options regarding his injured shoulder. Per ESPN.com's David Newton, the organization has been in discussions with medical personnel on the best plan to strengthen the shoulder - whether that's with rest or another surgery. A surgery opens the possibility Newton could miss a season - just as Andrew Luck did in 2017 - after undergoing surgery on his throwing shoulder.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

This will be one of the most closely watched stories this offseason. Stay tuned.


CAR - Surgery for QB Cam Newton?

Source: Charlotte Observer - Joseph Person

Carolina Panthers QB Cam Newton's (shoulder) offseason recovery remains unclear as team owner David Tepper admitted he has 'no idea' if Newton will have surgery.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Newton is going to try and rest the shoulder to get back to full strength...or at least as close to full strength as he can. He's had shoulder surgery before and needs to be healthy in order to perform at his best. We give him a ton of credit for his toughness, but playing with this shoulder injury has not lead to the best production (or wins) for the veteran quarterback.


NO - WR Michael Thomas a postseason fiend

Source: ProFootballReference.com

New Orleans Saints WR Michael Thomas is just the fourth player since 1970 to achieve multiple playoff games with at least 130 receiving yards.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Thomas is arguably the most important piece of the Saints offense not named QB Drew Brees. They continue to march towards the Super Bowl and have a tough matchup against the Rams in the NFC Championship Game.


KC - TE Travis Kelce in elite company

Source: ProFootballReference.com

Kansas City Chiefs TE Travis Kelce is just the fifth tight end since 1999 to achieve multiple 100-yard playoff games.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Kelce is already an elite tight end, but now the Chiefs are winning in the postseason with a chance to go to the Super Bowl. He should be a big part of what they do if they make it past the Patriots in the AFC Championship Game.


CIN - WR Tyler Boyd nearing full strength

Source: Sirius XM NFL Radio - Alex Marvez

Cincinnati Bengals WR Tyler Boyd (knee) is about two weeks away from being fully recovered from his sprained medial collateral ligament.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Good news for Boyd here. This means that he should be able to participate in OTAs later this spring. Boyd played in 14 games this year, finishing with a career high in catches (76), receiving yards (1,028) and receiving touchdowns (7). He's a low-end WR2 or WR3/flex play for Fantasy GMs going forward.


NYJ - Gregg Williams joining Jets

Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter

Former Cleveland Browns interim head coach Gregg Williams is finalizing a deal to become the next defensive coordinator of the New York Jets, according to a source. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Williams is known for building an aggressive defense, and that won't change now that he's with the Jets. They have some good young talent on the defensive side of the ball but it remains to be seen how Williams will get along with new head coach Adam Gase.


PHI - QB Nick Foles a Philly favorite

Source: SportsRadio 94WIP

Philadelphia Eagles QB Nick Foles is a player the team would like to have return even though Foles can buy out of the final year of his contract if the Eagles pick up his 2019 option. 'We would love to keep Nick Foles,' Eagles general manager Howie Roseman said Tuesday, Jan. 15, at the team's year-end news conference. 'You talk about a guy we've drafted here and grown incredibly close with. Certainly, as we go into the substance of those discussions, no question ... we'd love to keep him.'

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

It's going to be an interesting offseason for the Eagles due to this Foles situation. Some out there believe they'll be able to tag and trade Foles in an effort to get something for him and not lose him with nothing in return. We'll see what happens with Foles but one thing is clear; the team wants Carson Wentz as their starting quarterback.


PHI - Philly GM defends WR Golden Tate trade

Source: NJ.com - Zack Rosenblatt

Philadelphia Eagles WR Golden Tate's trade-deadline acquisition from the Detroit Lions 'no question' worked out the way the Eagles hoped it would, general manager Howie Roseman said Tuesday, Jan. 15.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Tate did make some plays with the Eagles here and there but he just didn't seem to fit in as good as he could have. Now he enters free agency in 2019 and it's unlikely the Eagles bring him back. They took a chance and it didn't work out...even though Roseman spun it differently on Tuesday.


PHI - Philly going forward with QB Carson Wentz

Source: Philadelphia Inquirer - Jeff McLane

Philadelphia Eagles QB Carson Wentz (back) is the team's 'starting quarterback going forward ,' head coach Doug Pederson said Tuesday, Jan. 16, at the team's season-ending news conference.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

After Nick Foles led them to the playoffs in 2018, many wondered what the future held for Wentz. It looks like the Eagles are going with Wentz. He hasn't played a full 16-game season since 2016 but when healthy he has the skill to be one of the best in the league at his position. We'll see if the Eagles can trade Foles this offseason.


Source; footballguys.com

[mr. leisure]

Foles and Flacco both should be sought after FA`S .

[Otters27]

Going to be freezing in KC. That favors the Pats I beiieve

[LT Profits]

JAX - John DeFilippo officially with Jaguars

Source: Jaguars.com - John Oehser

Updating a previous report, former Minnesota Vikings offensive coordinator John DeFilippo was officially hired by the Jacksonville Jaguars Wednesday, Jan. 16, as their new offensive coordinator.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

DeFilippo was considered a head coach candidate not that long ago. He was part of the smashing success story in Philadelphia in 2017, but didn't make it through his first season in Minnesota. The Jaguars offense has nowhere to go but up, but DeFilippo might be constrained by some of the run-first mentality that he clashed with during his time on the Vikings staff.


KC - WR Sammy Watkins has full practice

Source: Chiefs.com

Kansas City Chiefs WR Sammy Watkins (foot) was a full practice participant Wednesday, Jan. 16.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Watkins was productive and emerged from the divisional round win with no setbacks. If he can get through the playoff season without any problems it will calm some of the fears about his long term outlook now that he has suffered yet another foot injury.


KC - WR Tyreek Hill fully practices

Source: Chiefs.com

Kansas City Chiefs WR Tyreek Hill (thigh, heel) participated fully in practice Wednesday, Jan. 16.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Hill may have a couple of ailments but he's good to go for the AFC Championship Game against the Patriots.


LAR - RB Todd Gurley will be limited this week

Source: ESPN.com - Lindsey Thiry

Los Angeles Rams RB Todd Gurley (knee) will be limited in practice all week despite his knee being fine, according to head coach Sean McVay.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

No surprise here. The Rams went ahead and split carries between Gurley and C.J. Anderson in the Divisional Round. This Sunday against the Saints, we expect them to follow a similar plan.


JAX - Jacksonville could pursue QB Nick Foles

Source: 1010XL AM - Hays Carlyon

Philadelphia Eagles QB Nick Foles is expected to be of interest to the Jacksonville Jaguars this offseason.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

This moves makes a lot of sense for both sides. First, they need to find an upgrade over Blake Bortles which Foles could provide. Second, Jaguars new offensive coordinator John DeFilippo is already familiar and connected with Foles as he served as the Eagles offensive coordinator from 2016 to 2017.


Source: footballguys.com

[JAKEPEAVY21]

hoping NE stomps on KC, many of these Chiefs fans are quite annoying.

[LT Profits]

LAC - QB Philip Rivers in line for extension

Source: ESPN.com - Eric D. Williams

Los Angeles Chargers QB Philip Rivers likely will have contract extension talks with the team this offseason, according to general manager Tom Telesco.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

The Chargers are good to go so long as they have Rivers. They work diligently to find a good price for the veteran quarterback. Rivers said he would like to play several more seasons.


OAK - RB Jalen Richard expected back

Source: NBC Sports Bay Area - Scott Bair

Oakland Raiders restricted free-agent RB Jalen Richard is expected to return to the team next season.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Richard can stick with the Raiders for a good price. He'll once again serve as a backup or change-of-pace back for the Raiders.


KC - WR Sammy Watkins fully practices

Source: Chiefs.com

Kansas City Chiefs WR Sammy Watkins (foot) fully participated in practice Thursday, Jan. 17.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Watkins can be a big play threat for the Chiefs. Even on limited snaps in extreme cold this Sunday, Watkins is a player the Patriots must gameplan for.


KC - Full practice for WR Tyreek Hill

Source: Chiefs.com

Kansas City Chiefs WR Tyreek Hill (heel, thigh) fully participated in practice Thursday, Jan. 17.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

The weather is going to be extremely cold but that may not slow down Hill. He's good to go for Sunday's game against the Patriots.


KC - RB Spencer Ware takes part in practice

Source: Chiefs.com

Kansas City Chiefs RB Spencer Ware (hamstring) fully participated in practice Thursday, Jan. 17.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Ware should be good for the AFC Championship Game on Sunday. He's the backup to Damien Williams and might get some touches here and there.


SEA - Seattle signs QB Paxton Lynch

Source: KJR Radio

Free-agent QB Paxton Lynch (Broncos) was signed to an undisclosed deal by the Seattle Seahawks Thursday, Jan. 17.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Lynch was a bust with the Broncos of epic proportions. A first-round pick in 2016, Lynch never could earn the starting job in Denver over backup-caliber QB Trevor Siemian. Lynch was out of football for the 2018 season but did workout for several teams. He'll get a chance to compete for the backup spot to Russell Wilson in 2019.


NE - Another big day for N.E. RBs?

Source: Boston Herald - Kevin Duffy

New England Patriots RBs Sony Michel, James White and Rex Burkhead combined for 47 rushing attempts/targets and 254 yards from scrimmage in the divisional-round playoff win over the Los Angeles Chargers.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

The Patriots are going to have a gameplan in place to take advantage of the Chiefs weaknesses on defense. The Chiefs surrendered the third-most total yards (2,709) to opposing running backs during the regular season.


DEN - Bill Musgrave out in Denver

Source: The Denver Post - Ryan O'Halloran

Offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave will not be returning to the Denver Broncos' staff.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Musgrave couldn't get the best out of QB Case Keenum and now he finds himself looking for work after one season as the Broncos OC. He's been around the league forever, has a good reputation and shouldn't find it difficult to find another gig.


CHI - Anthony Miller not facing prolonged recovery

Source: Chicago Tribune - Brad Biggs

Chicago Bears WR Anthony Miller (shoulder) should not miss significant time during the offseason following his upcoming shoulder surgery, according to the Chicago Tribune's Brad Biggs, who believes Miller will be ready to go at or near the start of the team's offseason program.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Good news for the young receiver here. He injured the shoulder in Week 3 but was able to tough it out through 15 games in 2018. When Miller is ready to return, expect the Bears to take it easy on him and ease him back into action.


CHI - RB Jordan Howard has little trade value?

Source: Chicago Tribune - Brad Biggs

Chicago Bears RB Jordan Howard holds little value if the team decides to shop him around during the offseason, according to the Chicago Tribune's Brad Biggs, who points out Howard is in the final year of his rookie deal and that running back is one of the NFL's most replaceable positions.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Howard had less than 1,000 yards rushing in 2018, the first time in his career he's fell below that mark. He just missed that total with 935 rushing yards in 2018. We'll see if the Bears want to go with a more dynamic runner in 2019. Biggs believes Howard's greatest value in 2019 would be as depth for the Bears.


HOU - WR DeAndre Hopkins was big part of offense

Source: Houston Chronicle - Aaron Wilson

Houston Texans WR DeAndre Hopkins was targeted 163 times during the regular season while the second highest total on the team was 45 targets.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

The headline can be filed under 'in other news, water is wet.' Hopkins is their passing game, and he's one of the best in the game. The team needs to keep feeding him the rock...and protect QB Deshaun Watson better...in 2019.


HOU - QB Brandon Weeden hopes to return

Source: Houston Chronicle - Aaron Wilson

Houston Texans impending free-agent QB Brandon Weeden said he hopes to re-sign with the Texans this offseason.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

The Texans had Weeden and Joe Webb behind Deshaun Watson this year. With Weeden potentially leaving in free agency, the Texans have to find some quarterback talent. They could always just have Weeden stick around for a good price.


PIT - No WR Antonio Brown trade talks yet

Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette - Ed Bouchette

Pittsburgh Steelers WR Antonio Brown has not been the topic of trade talks at this point, according to owner Art Rooney II.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

This drama will continue throughout the offseason. Rooney said Brown staying with the Steelers is still an option but not many signs are pointing that way at this time.


Source: footballguys.com

[Otters27]

Tyreek hill will be the factor for cheifs to win

[JAKEPEAVY21]

Tyreek hill will be the factor for cheifs to win

make sure he does not have any game changing plays

[LT Profits]

LAC - GM open to TE Antonio Gates continuing in 2019

Source: The Athletic - Sam Fortier

Los Angeles Chargers TE Antonio Gates may only come back as the team's third tight end behind starter Hunter Henry and blocker Virgil Green, but general manager Tom Telesco indicated in the recent interview that he believes he will welcome back Gates for another season.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Gates wants to return and the Chargers are open to his return. It sounds like something they could make work later in the year. Gates doesn't need a bunch of offseason work so perhaps he's out of football until the summer.


NO - Benjamin Watson officially questionable

Source: NewOrleansSaints.com

Updating a previous report, New Orleans Saints TE Benjamin Watson (illness) was limited during practice Friday, Jan. 18, and is listed as questionable for the NFC Championship game.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Watson has been in the hospital with appendicitis for most of the week. Reports indicate Watson is out, so guys like Josh Hill and Dan Arnold would be asked to do more.


KC - WR Sammy Watkins not on injury report

Source: Chiefs.com

Kansas City Chiefs WR Sammy Watkins (foot) fully participated in practice Friday, Jan. 18, and is not on the injury report for the AFC Championship game.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Watkins is good to go for Sunday's game against the Patriots. Even if he only gets a few targets, Watkins has big-play ability and is a player the Patriots certainly have to gameplan for.


KC - WR Tyreek Hill on track to play

Source: Chiefs.com

Kansas City Chiefs WR Tyreek Hill (heel, thigh) fully participated in practice Friday, Jan. 18, and is not on the injury report for the AFC Championship game.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Hill has been a bit banged up during the playoffs but he still plays and performs at a high level. The weather may not be as extremely cold as originally thought and Hill's speed is a great asset for the Chiefs offense they should use early and often against the Patriots.


KC - RB Spencer Ware ready to play

Source: Chiefs.com

Kansas City Chiefs RB Spencer Ware (hamstring) fully participated in practice Friday, Jan. 18, and is not on the injury report for the AFC Championship game.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Good news for Ware here. He's going to serve as the primary backup to Damien Williams and could get a few touches here and there.


BAL - QB Tyrod Taylor an option for Ravens?

Source: ESPN.com - Jamison Hensley

Cleveland Browns impending free-agent QB Tyrod Taylor could be an option for the Baltimore Ravens this offseason as a backup to QB Lamar Jackson, in the opinion of ESPN.com's Jamison Hensley.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

We could see that happening if the Ravens don't want Robert Griffin III back as the no.2 quarterback behind Jackson. Taylor had one of his better seasons when offensive coordinator Greg Roman was calling plays for him with the Buffalo Bills.


DAL - Scott Linehan fired as Dallas OC

Source: NFL Network - Mike Garafolo

Dallas Cowboys offensive coordinator Scott Linehan was fired Friday, Jan. 18, the team announced in a statement.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

The Cowboys are trying to be more creative offensively and this is why Linehan is gone. The parting of ways was said to be mutual. Whoever takes over the Cowboys offense will have some great players to work with like QB Dak Prescott, RB Ezekiel Elliott and WR Amari Cooper.


SF - TE George Kittle set pace among TEs

Source: Pro Football Writers of America

San Francisco 49ers TE George Kittle set a single-season tight end record with 1,377 receiving yards in 2018 and was one of four tight ends to lead their teams in receiving yards. Kittle also paced all tight ends with six receptions of 40-plus yards.

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Kittle finished as the no.2 fantasy tight end in 2018 behind only Travis Kelce. They'll continue to use him as a big part of the offense going forward and Fantasy GMs will be plucking Kittle in the second round of drafts in the summer.


PHI - Dates looming on QB Nick Foles decision

Source: Forbes.com

Philadelphia Eagles QB Nick Foles might have played his last game with the Eagles, and the first key date in that process arrives Feb. 10 -- one month before the start of the new league year -- when the Eagles must decide if they're going to pick up Foles' $20 million contract option for 2019. If so, Foles has five days to decide if he wants to void the option.

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There's going to be a market for Foles once teams figure out what he could possibly had for. The speculation remains that the Eagles will tag and trade Foles. We'll see if that can happen or if Foles opts out. Stay tuned....and look for a team like Jacksonville to make a move for the veteran passer.


TB - WR DeSean Jackson yet to hear from Bucs

Source: Florida Football Insiders

Tampa Bay Buccaneers WR DeSean Jackson said Thursday, Jan. 17, that he has yet to talk to new head coach Bruce Arians or anyone from the team about remaining in Tampa.

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The writing has been on the wall with Jackson for some time and we don't expect the Bucs to retain his services. Jackson is entering the third year of a three-year, $33.5 million contract. We could see Jackson winding up back in Philadelphia if he is released. Also, watch for impending free agent John Brown perhaps landing with the Bucs and reuniting with Arians.


LAR - RB C.J. Anderson ready to roll

Source: NFL.com - Nick Shook

Los Angeles Rams RB C.J. Anderson said he is the freshest running back in the league heading into a matchup with the New Orleans Saints in the NFC Championship Game. 'I look faster than everyone else, part of it because I'm fresh,' Anderson said.

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Anderson was out of the league for a bit in the 2018 season after the Panthers decided to release him. He then signed with the Raiders for a week, only to never touch the ball and get released a week later. Anderson then got picked up by the Rams and he's had over 100-yards rushing in each of the three games he's played in for the team. Going up against the Saints in New Orleans is tough for any team, but we'll see if the Rams can grind them down on the ground with Anderson and starter Todd Gurley.


TB - Bruce Arians to help QB Jameis Winston?

Source: NFL.com - Kevin Patra

Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Jameis Winston will benefit from having Bruce Arians as his head coach, according to retired QB Carson Palmer. 'It's probably the best thing that could've happen to Jameis at this point in his career,' Palmer said. 'Getting a guy like B.A. to come in and clean up some things technically. And really installing what he does best and that's push the ball down the field.'

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That's the biggest task for Arians in 2019; see if Winston can have his career jump started and get the Bucs on track offensively. Arians is a 'quarterback whisperer' so we feel pretty good about his chances to get through to Winston. The biggest thing Arians should have to change is the number of turnovers Winston has as a passer. Both Arians and Winston love the deep passing game, but Arians needs to coach Winston on when/where to challenge a defense.


WAS - RB Derrius Guice back on the field

Source: Derrius Guice - Twitter

Washington Redskins RB Derrius Guice (knee) posted a video of himself on social media running and doing other drills on the field.

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In December of 2018, the Washington Post reported that an infection Guice's torn ACL required three additional knee surgeries. The 2018 second-round pick tore his ACL back in the preseason but has not had the smoothest of recoveries. The video is cool and a good sign, but we still think Guice is limited in OTAs this spring...if he's even a participant. We might not know much about his status until the start of training camp. Stay tuned.


NFL - LJ Scott out of Senior Bowl

Source: MLive.com - Aaron McMann

Michigan State RB LJ Scott (ankles) pulled out of the Senior Bowl because of injuries to both ankles.

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Scott could have used the Senior Bowl to elevate his draft stock. Measuring in at 6'1" 225 pounds, Scott saw his YPC numbers fall from a respectable 5.4 in 2016 to just 3.3 in 2018. Injuries plagued him during his final year with the Spartans and he only appeared in five games. We'll see if Scott can get healthy and put together a good performance at the Scouting Combine in early March.


Source: footballguys.com

[DwightShrute]

17 years ago today

[LT Profits]

CAR - WR Devin Funchess not expected back

Source: ESPN.com - David Newton

Carolina Panthers impending free-agent WR Devin Funchess likely will not re-sign with the Panthers this offseason because of WR D.J. Moore's performance during the second half of the season.

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A second-round pick of the Panthers in 2015, Funchess has been overshadowed by younger and more explosive talent at the position like Moore. In 2018, Funchess played in 14 games nabbed 44 passes for 549 yards and four receiving touchdowns. There should be a market for his services, just not a white-hot market in our opinion.


DEN - Denver to look at QB Joe Flacco, QB Nick Foles?

Source: 9News.com - Mike Klis

Baltimore Ravens QB Joe Flacco and Philadelphia Eagles QB Nick Foles could receive interest from the Denver Broncos this offseason, in the opinion of 9News.com's Mike Klis.

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The Broncos now know that Case Keenum is not the long-term answer at the quarterback position. GM John Elway does not want to rebuild, so that means competing in arguably the toughest division in football the AFC West. Flacco has a big arm and could work in Rich Scangarello's Shanahan-like system...like he did under Gary Kubiak in 2014. Foles, a favorite of the Broncos brass dating back to his days in college, could find himself in the Mile High City to take over as the starter. Either move would likely mean the team moves on from Keenum.


TB - WR DeSean Jackson not expected back

Source: NFL Network - Mike Garafolo

Tampa Bay Buccaneers WR DeSean Jackson probably will not return to the Buccaneers next season even though head coach Bruce Arians hopes he stays on the roster, according to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

We just don't see Jackson staying with the Buccaneers. He could move on and perhaps wind up back in Philadelphia as a deep threat. Speaking of deep threats, don't be surprised if John Brown finds his way to Tampa to reunite with Arians. 'Smoke' Brown was a good player for Arians during their time with the Cardinals.


OAK - RB Marshawn Lynch could play in 2019

Source: ProFootballTalk.com - Michael David Smith

Oakland Raiders RB Marshawn Lynch said on HBO's 'Real Time with Bill Maher' that he is open to playing in 2019 under the right circumstances.

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Lynch is set to be a free agent in 2019. In six games in 2018, Lynch had 90 carries for 376 rushing yards and three touchdowns for the Raiders. He'll be 33-years old in April of 2019 and may think he's got something left in the tank.


TB - QB Jameis Winston made strides

Source: ESPN.com

Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Jameis Winston threw 11 interceptions in his first five games in 2018 and three interceptions over his final six games.

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It's a good sign for Winston as he's got one more year to impress the Buccaneers as their starter. Playing on his fifth-year option in 2019, Winston will be working with noted 'quarterback whisperer' Bruce Arians. We'll see if Arians can get the best out of Winston and also cut down on his interceptions.


MIA - Miami eyeing RB in draft?

Source: DolphinsWire - Antwan Staley

Iowa State RB David Montgomery could be a target for the Miami Dolphins in the 2019 NFL Draft, according to Antwan Staley of DolphinsWire. Staley believes Montgomery's aggressive running style would fill the hole left behind when RB Frank Gore hits free agency in March.

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Montgomery is aggressive but he's light on his feet and does a good job of fighting for yards after contact. In 2018, Montgomery rushed for 1,216 yards and 13 touchdowns. Pro Football Focus reports Montgomery led the FBS in broken tackles in back-to-back seasons. His 40 carries of 10 yards or more ranked 10th in the FBS in 2018 and Montgomery is seen as a top-5 player at his position in the 2019 NFL draft.


NFL - Jalen Guyton turning pro

Source: NFLCommunications.com

North Texas WR Jalen Guyton has entered the 2019 NFL Draft.

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Guyton began his collegiate career at Notre Dame, but was suspended in December of 2015. He spent 2016 in junior college then two seasons with the Mean Green of North Texas. Measuring in at 6'0" 202 pounds, Guyton caught 54 passes for 805 receiving yards and six touchdowns in 2018.


NFL - Jazz Ferguson going pro

Source: NFLCommunications.com

Northwestern State WR Jazz Ferguson has entered the 2019 NFL Draft.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Ferguson had six 100-yard receiving games in 2018, setting a record for Northwestern State and also becoming the first player since 2015 to be named All-American (third-team FCS) from the school. Measuring in at 6'5" 220 pounds, Ferguson set Northwestern State single-season records in receiving yards (1,117) and touchdown receptions (13) while recording the second-most catches in school history (66).


NFL - Jovon Durante headed to NFL

Source: NFLCommunications.com

Florida Atlantic WR Jovon Durante has entered the 2019 NFL Draft.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Durante becomes the first player in FAU history to declare for the draft early. Measuring in at 6'0" 165 pounds, Durante led FAU in receptions (65), receiving yards (873) and receiving touchdowns (five) in 2018.


TB - TE Cameron Brate had surgery

Source: ESPN.com - Jenna Laine

Tampa Bay Buccaneers TE Cameron Brate (hip) had arthroscopic surgery to repair a torn labrum in his hip, according to a source, and Brate is hoping to return for minicamp in June.

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Brate played through this injury for most of the 2018 season where he finished with 30 catches for 289 yards and six touchdowns (in 16 games). Those were lower numbers than he posted each of the last two years. Fantasy GMs should be expecting that trend to continue for Brate in Bruce Arians offense where the tight end (especially the no.2 tight end) isn't used that much.


Source: footballguys.com

[mr. leisure]

What a glorious day , lets get ready to rumble !

[mpaschal34]

What a glorious day , lets get ready to rumble !

Has the makings of being a Classic Weekend. Let’s hope the games are as good as the lines say they are supposed to be.

[Otters27]

Tom Brady throws for 3 clutch first downs on 3rd and 10 in OT

that is why he is the GOAT

[LT Profits]

Has the makings of being a Classic Weekend. Let’s hope the games are as good as the lines say they are supposed to be.

Mission accomplished!