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The Detroit Lions revealed their new uniforms on Thursday, sporting a modern twist on the current kits while also paying homage to the franchise's past.In addition to its traditional home and away jerseys, Detroit introduced the return of a black alternate jersey with a blue helmet. Among other noticeable changes is the updated number font, which has a new block visual similar to the Lions' uniforms in the 1980s and '90s. The team will also wear "Detroit" across their chest on the road for the first time in franchise history.

Bills quarterback Josh Allen thanked Stefon Diggs on Thursday during his first press conference since the star receiver was traded from Buffalo to the Houston Texans."It's definitely hard to part ways with a guy that's been very instrumental in our success here over the last four years," Allen said, according to ESPN's Alaina Getzenberg.He added: "Obviously, I wish we can keep everybody. You know, we've made a lot of changes this offseason, lost a lot of veteran leadership, Stef being one of them. I guess that's the nature of the business. And going into Year 7 now, it's just kind of what it is. I don't get paid to make changes on the team. I get paid to be the best quarterback that I can be and try to lead the guys on this team."The Bills sent Diggs - their leading receiver the last four seasons - a 2024 sixth-round pick, and a 2025 fifth-rounder to the Texans in exchange for a 2025 second-round selection (via the Minnesota Vikings). Buffalo will eat a record non-quarterback cap hit of $31.1 million in 2024 as part of the deal.Buffalo originally acquired Diggs in a trade with the Vikings in 2020, giving Allen a top No. 1 wideout before the signal-caller's third NFL season. Together, they formed one of the league's most productive duos as Diggs earned all of his four career Pro Bowl nods in Buffalo and Allen averaged 34 passing touchdowns.Allen said he'll always remember Diggs as "the receiver that helped me become the quarterback that I am today, and I'll always thank him for that.""I'll always love that guy like a brother. He meant a lot. Look at the statistics. The numbers don't lie," Allen added, per NFL.com's Kevin Patra.In addition to Diggs, the Bills lost Gabe Davis - their second-most targeted wideout in 2023 - to the Jacksonville Jaguars in free agency. Buffalo's new-look wide receiver depth chart features Khalil Shakir and recently signed pass-catchers Curtis Samuel and Mack Hollins. It also includes tight ends Dalton Kincaid and Dawson Knox.Bills general manager Brandon Beane said Thursday that Buffalo isn't desperate to find a like-for-like replacement for Diggs in this year's NFL draft. The AFC East club owns the 28th overall pick.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Buffalo Bills aren't desperate to find a like-for-like replacement for Stefon Diggs after trading the Pro Bowl receiver to the Houston Texans."You'd love to have two guys out there that are No. 1s; you're always going to try to find the best players you can," Buffalo general manager Brandon Beane said when asked Thursday if the Bills need a star receiver, according to Dan Fetes of 13WHAM. "No, what you need are guys that, in this offense, are smart, versatile, selfless, and can make the plays that their skill set allows them to make."Diggs led Buffalo in receiving yards in each of his four seasons with the club before being shipped out to Houston for a 2025 second-round pick in early April. While the 30-year-old was among the best wideouts in the NFL during his time in Buffalo, he was often seen as an off-field distraction amid rumors of discontent.Diggs' production and role in the offense diminished in the second half of last season, but his departure left the Super Bowl hopefuls with an underwhelming receiver group.The Bills added free agents Curtis Samuel and Mack Hollins to a pass-catching unit also containing Khalil Shakir and tight ends Dalton Kincaid and Dawson Knox.Before Beane's comments, it was speculated that Buffalo could be a prime candidate to trade up in the first round to secure a new top target for quarterback Josh Allen. The franchise holds the 28th overall selection.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Welcome to theScore Fantasy Football Podcast, hosted by Justin Boone.Find the show on Spotify, Apple, Google, and Stitcher.In this episode, Boone is joined by Dane Brugler of The Athletic to discuss his thoughts heading into the 2024 NFL Draft.

With the Chicago Bears all but certain to take Caleb Williams at No. 1 overall, the Washington Commanders are the first major pivot point of the 2024 NFL Draft.Commanders general manager Adam Peters said Thursday that he's expecting to stay at second overall, regardless of whether other teams are interested in acquiring the selection."We feel great about staying at No. 2," said Peters, according to ESPN's John Keim. "I don't see a whole lot of scenarios trading down."Peters said the Commanders are "real close" to deciding which player - widely expected to be a quarterback - to select in the first round, which will take place April 25.North Carolina's Drake Maye and LSU's Jayden Daniels are viewed as the most likely candidates to join Washington, while Michigan's J.J. McCarthy is a wild card after shooting up draft boards since the combine."We'll probably have a good idea what we're doing early next week," said Peters.Free-agent addition Marcus Mariota sits atop the Commanders' depth chart after 2023 starter Sam Howell was traded to the Seattle Seahawks and backup Jacoby Brissett left for the New England Patriots.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The New England Patriots are willing to listen to trade offers ahead of next week's NFL draft, including those regarding their third overall selection."We're open to anything - moving up, moving down," Patriots director of scouting Eliot Wolf said Thursday. "We're open for business in the first round and in every round."We have some holes we feel like we need to fill in the draft. And we're a draft-and-develop team. The more picks we have the better. But if there's an opportunity to move up and strike, if the board recommends it, then we won't be afraid to pull the trigger on that, either."Wolf also said that while the team has engaged in trade discussions centered on their first-round pick, the Patriots are yet to field an enticing offer.The Patriots have several needs across the roster entering Jerod Mayo's head coaching debut next season, but the potential of adding a young quarterback has been widely speculated leading up to the opening round of the NFL draft on April 25.New England traded Mac Jones to the Jacksonville Jaguars for a sixth-round pick, while veteran Jacoby Brissett was signed during free agency for his second stint with the franchise. Bailey Zappe and Nathan Rourke round out the QB depth chart.Quarterback talent headlines the 2024 draft class. Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, Jayden Daniels, and J.J. McCarthy are among the notable talents expected to have their names called early.Wolf dismissed the notion that the club's roster, which has undergone changes since Bill Belichick's dismissal, wouldn't be beneficial for a rookie passer, pointing out how the team addressed the offensive line by re-signing Mike Onwenu and adding Chukwuma Okorafor."I definitely feel like we can support (a rookie QB)," Wolf said.The depth at wide receiver remains an area of concern for the Patriots, though Wolf says the club has "good receivers we're excited about working with." New England re-signed Kendrick Bourne and brought in K.J. Osborn during free agency.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

theScore's prospect rankings series takes a position-by-position look at the top players in the 2024 NFL Draft.QB | RB | WR | TE | OL

With the NFL draft almost here, we're close to learning the landing spots for this year's prospects, which will have a major impact on their fantasy value.Updated rankings will be published following the draft, but here are my final dynasty rookie rankings before Roger Goodell announces the first pick.You can also follow the links below to see the dynasty trade values for veterans at each position.Dynasty Rankings & Trade Values

theScore's prospect rankings series takes a position-by-position look at the top players in the 2024 NFL Draft.QB | RB | WR | TE | OL

theScore's prospect rankings series takes a position-by-position look at the top players in the 2024 NFL Draft.QB | RB | WR | TE | OL

theScore's prospect rankings series takes a position-by-position look at the top players in the 2024 NFL Draft.QB | RB | WR | TE | OL

The Los Angeles Chargers are signing former Baltimore Ravens running back J.K. Dobbins to a one-year contract, his agency told ESPN's Adam Schefter.Dobbins reacted to the news on social media Wednesday:

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is eager to work with new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore and wants more continuity at the position going forward."I think as a player, I definitely yearn for the sustainability and the consistency there," Hurts said, according to ESPN's Tim McManus. "As a quarterback, I yearn for those things in a playcaller and a quarterback coach because you kind of see how consistency in those areas can breed excellence."The two-time Pro Bowler's comments came as he spoke to the media for the first time since Brian Johnson, the Eagles' former OC and a family friend, was fired after one season with the franchise."I find myself in a situation very similar to college in terms of having a constantly revolving door in terms of coordinators and coaches. But I've always managed to have success in it, so that's always been a good thing, because you've been able to learn from people and apply it," Hurts said.Hurts, who began his collegiate career at Alabama and transferred to Oklahoma for his final year, had a different playcaller each season before turning pro. That trend was halted in 2021 and 2022, when the Eagles had Shane Steichen working alongside the dual-threat passer.Hurts flourished alongside Steichen, leading the Eagles to a 14-1 record in their second season together and an appearance in Super Bowl LVII. He assembled a MVP-worthy campaign, passing for 3,701 yards, 22 touchdowns, and six interceptions, with a 101.5 quarterback rating. He also added 760 rushing yards and 13 scores on the ground.Steichen was subsequently named the head coach of the Indianapolis Colts, and Johnson was promoted from quarterbacks coach to OC ahead of the 2023 season.The Eagles finished seventh in points per game (25.5) that season and eighth in total yards per contest (354.4). Despite beginning the 2023 campaign with a 10-1 start, they lost six of their final seven regular-season contests and were eliminated from the playoffs after losing to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the wild-card round.Hurts is excited to collaborate with Moore and see what the new foundation of the offense will be ahead of next season."I'm just all ears. I'm a sponge. I think there's some beauty in that. I'm just in sponge mode. I'm letting them do what it is they're going to do, and then we kind of adjust from there," Hurts said.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft cautioned Arthur Blank, his Atlanta Falcons counterpart, against hiring Bill Belichick in January, sources told ESPN's Don Van Natta Jr., Seth Wickersham, and Jeremy Fowler."Robert called Arthur to warn him not to trust Bill," a source close to Belichick said.Belichick, the former Patriots coach who won six Super Bowls with the franchise, was widely perceived to be the front-runner for the Falcons' job this offseason. But Atlanta went in a different direction, hiring Raheem Morris after Blank and Belichick met on the owner's yacht.A spokesperson for Kraft denied that the owner said anything negative about Belichick during his conversations with Blank."Robert steadfastly denies saying anything negative to Arthur Blank about Bill Belichick after Robert and Bill mutually agreed to part ways. In fact, Robert advocated for Bill to get the job," Patriots spokesman Stacey James said.The Falcons were reportedly concerned about Belichick's ability to operate without the full autonomy he received in New England. Atlanta's front office believed that the 72-year-old would revert back to his old habits once he was hired.Morris, 47, emerged as the Falcons' top candidate, followed by former Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator Mike MacDonald and Houston Texans offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik. Belichick failed to land in the top three of any Falcons decision-makers when they ranked their coaching candidates.The relationship between Kraft and Belichick reportedly deteriorated toward the end of the coach's tenure with the Patriots, and Belichick's relationship with Tom Brady contributed to changing dynamics.The Patriots reportedly considered moving on from Belichick after the 2022 season, but Jonathan Kraft, who serves as the club's president, talked his father out of it."(Kraft) found Bill to be extremely difficult and obstinate and kind of stubborn and, in the end, not worthy of his trust," a source close to the owner told ESPN. "And also very, very, very arrogant."With the coaching carousel now over, Belichick is looking to join the media as he awaits another opportunity to return to the sideline. It's believed that the former coach will sign a deal with Peyton Manning's Omaha Productions, which produces ESPN's "Manningcast" during Monday Night Football.Belichick will co-host "The Pat McAfee Show Draft Spectacular" on April 25 live in Detroit that will be streamed on ESPN+.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy came to the rescue of a woman and her dog while filming a commercial earlier this offseason.During an appearance on Tuesday's episode of "The Pat McAfee Show," Purdy confirmed a news segment about how he saved CBS Bay Area reporter Sara Donchey from a coyote in February.Donchey explained during the segment that she was walking her dog in San Francisco when she heard someone yell and warn her about a large coyote attempting to sneak up on her. The person who warned her turned out to be Purdy, who was filming a John Deere commercial nearby at the time."I can't believe that that was a real thing," Purdy told McAfee. "But yeah, she walked by and said she was a news anchor and I was like, 'Dude, I just saved a news anchor's life from getting eaten by a coyote.' But it's real, man. I can confirm it."Purdy said the coyote took off running after he alerted Donchey."We're shooting this commercial by a hill on the outside of the city and I see this thing trotting by and it had a long tail, I was like, 'Bro, that looks like a mini wolf,'" Purdy said. "No one was gonna scream and I was like, alright, so I screamed and I was like, 'Yo, there's a coyote' and that thing went running off. But yeah, could've been an ugly day on the shoot but we saved her."Purdy threw for a franchise-record 4,280 yards yards last season while leading the 49ers to an NFC West title and an appearance in Super Bowl LVIII.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Lions reinvigorated Jared Goff's career, and the quarterback helped Detroit return to playoff success after decades of struggle.With a potential extension in the cards before the 2024 season, Goff emphasized Tuesday that he wants the relationship to continue for years to come."It's been amazing, man," Goff said while attending the Lions' voluntary workouts, according to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press. "I love it here and would love to be here for a long time. It's been really special, like I mentioned, playing in front of these fans and being able to provide a winning culture in the last year and a half or so."To see them experience that and be able to be a part of that has been fun but by no means are we satisfied or happy to be here or any of that. It's about what's next now."Goff has one year and $27.3 million left on a contract signed with the Los Angeles Rams before he was traded to Detroit in 2021 as part of the deal for Matthew Stafford.The veteran passer will likely get a raise toward the top of the market, which has eight quarterbacks making at least $45 million a season and four earning over $50 million per year, per Over the Cap.Despite the significant pay increase he'll need to hand out, Lions general manager Brad Holmes has said he's optimistic about locking up Goff before the campaign gets underway.Goff - who led the Lions to their first playoff win and an NFC Championship Game appearance last season - is also hoping to come to an agreement on a new deal for 2024.The quarterback threw for 4,575 yards - second in the NFL - and 30 touchdowns to 12 interceptions as Detroit won the NFC North with a 12-5 record.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

theScore's prospect rankings series takes a position-by-position look at the top players in the 2024 NFL Draft.QB | RB | WR | TE | OL

Trevor Lawrence said Tuesday that he's had talks about a contract extension with the Jacksonville Jaguars, but finalizing a deal isn't the star quarterback's top priority at the moment."There's definitely been some conversations," Lawrence said, according to ESPN's Michael DiRocco. "As far as where that's at now, it's not really my focus. I'd love to obviously be a Jag for as long as possible. We love it here, and I love where we're headed as an organization."He added: "I can't lie. Obviously, it would be nice to have that done and feel good about it, but, no, it's not really the focus right now. I know where we're at, I know where we're heading, and I know what I have to do, and there's some improvements that I have to make going forward."Lawrence, who became eligible to sign a new deal this year, is entering the fourth year of his rookie contract. Jacksonville is expected to exercise the fifth-year option on the former No. 1 pick's deal, which is worth $25.6 million in 2025.After a disappointing rookie season in 2021, Lawrence posted a strong sophomore campaign with 25 touchdowns and only eight interceptions en route to earning a Pro Bowl berth. He also led the Jaguars to the playoffs.The 24-year-old wasn't able to replicate that success in 2023, though. The Clemson product, who missed one game due to a shoulder injury, finished last season with 21 TDs against 14 picks, as Jacksonville missed the playoffs with a 9-8 record."I feel like I'm just getting better every year and my best ball's definitely ahead of me," Lawrence said.Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals tops all quarterbacks with a $55-million average annual salary, according to Spotrac. He's followed by Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers ($52.5 million), Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens ($52 million), and Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles ($51 million). They all signed contract extensions last year.Jaguars general manager Trent Baalke said in January that Lawrence's extension with the team will get done "at the appropriate time.""My job isn't going to change whether I get extended or not before this season," Lawrence added. "My job is to go win games and to be the best I can be for this team so we can have a chance to win a Super Bowl. Even if I get the contract extension, that's still my job even more so. So for me, I have the same focus and the same mindset."Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our Betting section and subscribing to push notifications.As we ramp up toward football's biggest weekend of the offseason, we've looked at what to be wary of in the markets at the top of the 2024 NFL Draft and the various questions posed by five different positional markets.Bets in those markets leave the bettor hoping to hear individual names called as early as possible, whereas positional totals essentially leave the sweat for the first round's last few moments. As Thursday night winds down, you get to a point where any name will do, just so long as it fits the criteria to go over a total or stay under one.Positional total oddsTOTAL DRAFTED (1st Round)OVERUNDEROffensive players21.5 (+110)21.5 (-140)Quarterbacks4.5 (-190)4.5 (+140)Running backs0.5 (+750)0.5 (-3000)Wide receivers6.5 (+185)6.5 (-260)Defensive players11.5 (+105)11.5 (-140)Defensive Linemen/Edge6.5 (+240)6.5 (-375)Cornerbacks5.5 (+250)5.5 (-400)Safeties0.5 (+400)0.5 (-800)A no-brainer betWe've seen movement in the markets above in the last week. Different sportsbooks adjust the lines and odds for draft props at various paces. An individual sportsbook should move certain numbers in concert since over 21.5 offensive players drafted equates to less than 11.5 defensive players. Interestingly, 21 offensive players getting drafted Thursday would equate to 11 defensive players, cashing the under on both.This is an opportunity to create a long shot without any research into what teams selecting late in the first round will do. It'll ensure you can win both bets but can't lose both, with the worst-case scenario being a split for a marginal loss. At the odds above, betting the under on both would result in a loss of 0.4 units for a chance to win two units or a synthetic +500 bet.Example:

Dallas Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones is defending his team's approach to free agency.The Cowboys are under fire for their conservative spending since the start of the new league year, which has coincided with several notable departures."We spend max, max money year in and year out," Jones said on 105.3 The Fan in Dallas, according to ESPN's Todd Archer. "All 32 can only spend the same amount of money over a five-year stretch. When we're all said and done, we max out our salary cap every year. We will have done that and what comes with having a good roster, which we do, we also are looking towards signing our own guys."Dallas has $6.5 million available ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft, according to Over the Cap. The Cowboys haven't splurged on signings this offseason, spending less than $6 million to bring in linebacker Eric Kendricks and re-sign cornerback Jourdan Lewis.The franchise has made a few additions to its roster, but there are holes at key positions following the departures of Tyron Smith, Tony Pollard, and Tyler Biadasz.One of the main reasons for a cautious approach to free agency is the desire to re-sign a few stars. Dak Prescott is entering the final year of his contract, and the team is unable to place the franchise tag on him after the 2024 season. He's currently set to account for $55.1 million against the salary cap.Meanwhile, star wideout CeeDee Lamb is set to account for $17.9 million in 2024. The three-time Pro Bowler posted career highs last season, recording 135 catches, 1,749 yards, and 12 touchdowns. Dallas could opt to place the franchise tag on Lamb if it's unable to negotiate a new deal.Dallas is also likely to pick up the fifth-year option for the 2025 season for pass-rusher Micah Parsons.While the Cowboys have expressed a desire to sign long-term extensions for all three players, there have been little to no discussions with the players' representatives, per Archer."It doesn't mean it happens overnight. But when you're wanting to sign players like Dak, and Micah and CeeDee, then certainly you have to hold money back if you want to have a realistic chance of signing those guys," Jones said.The Cowboys hold the No. 24 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes believes he's "nowhere near" entering the conversation for football's greatest-ever player."You have to build a consistency of a career," Mahomes told TIME's Sean Gregory. "You see that in any sport. I've had a great run. I think I've done a great job so far. But it's hard to take away from what Tom (Brady) did for so long, what Peyton Manning did, or Aaron Rodgers. There are so many guys, they were at such a high level for such a long time."In order to be in that conversation, you have to do that on a year-to-year basis. You can't take it for granted that you did it the year before."The 28-year-old captured his third league title last season after a thrilling 25-22 overtime win in Super Bowl LVIII. Mahomes has won many accolades in his first seven seasons and is just 83 yards away from becoming the Chiefs' all-time passing yards leader.Although Mahomes won't yet include himself in the GOAT conversation, he admits he's had a prolific start to his career."I've had at least one of the top three starts to a career," he said.While retirement isn't at the forefront of the six-time Pro Bowler's mind, he indicated the quality of his family life could play a large role in the timing of that decision."I've looked, if I played until Tom's age, my daughter would be 19, 20 years old. I would love to play that long. At the same time, I want to be there for my daughter. If I can do that, I'll continue to play. But if I feel like it's taking away from my family time, that's when I'll know it's time to go," Mahomes said.The two-time league MVP says Brady "skewered people's brains" by making the sport look easy as he played into his 40s. "So I'm about to make sure that I get rid of this dad bod if I want to play to 45," Mahomes said.Brady, a seven-time Super Bowl champion, holds most of the league's passing records after authoring a Hall of Fame-worthy career that began in 2000 and concluded after the 2022 season. Mahomes, who has emerged as one of the faces of the league since becoming a starter in 2018, remains focused on building his own dynasty."At the end of my time, I just want to say that I didn't leave anything out there," Mahomes said. "My family and football are the first things I want to be great at. If I can go out there and say that I gave everything I had on the football field, expectations are what they are and whatever is going to happen is going to happen. And I can be satisfied with that."Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

theScore's prospect rankings series takes a position-by-position look at the top players in the 2024 NFL Draft.QB | RB | WR | TE | OL

New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones is optimistic he can return to action when training camp gets underway.Jones was at the team facility with other players for the first day of the Giants' offseason program Monday."The plan is to be ready to go by training camp. ... I haven't had any setbacks, fortunately, to this point," Jones said, according to ESPN's Jordan Raanan. "It's a process, and there have certainly been better days and then days where you don't make as much progress, but overall, it has been a good process with these guys."Jones tore his right ACL during the Nov. 5 game against the Las Vegas Raiders and missed the remainder of the 2023 season. His recovery was expected to take about eight months, which would fall close to the start of training camp in July.Jones also missed three games due to a neck injury. It was the 26-year-old's second neck injury in three seasons. However, he said his neck is "100% healthy," describing last season's ailment as a common impact injury.The Giants signed Drew Lock in March to provide a veteran option on the depth chart. New York is also meeting with quarterback prospects as it explores its options with the No. 6 pick in the draft.Jones, the No. 6 selection in the 2019 draft, said he thinks he'll be the Giants' best option even if they draft a quarterback."The best way to handle that is to focus on what I'm doing, focus on myself, making sure I'm healthy and ready to play good football," Jones added, according to Fox Sport's Ralph Vacchiano. "That's what I can control."Jones signed a four-year, $160-million extension in March 2023. The former Duke star has thrown for 12,512 yards, 62 touchdowns, and 40 interceptions in 60 games with the Giants. He's also rushed for 1,914 yards and 13 scores over five seasons.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Philadelphia Eagles exercised the fifth-year option on wide receiver DeVonta Smith and signed him to a three-year extension through the 2028 season, the team announced Monday.The three-year deal is worth $75 million and contains $51 million in guaranteed money, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.Smith's extension averages $25 million per year, which ties him with teammate A.J. Brown for fourth highest among NFL receivers, per Spotrac. Brown signed his four-year, $100-million deal in 2022.Smith, who was a top-10 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, has surpassed 900 receiving yards in each of his three NFL seasons. He caught 81 passes for 1,066 yards and seven touchdowns in 2023.His best season came in 2022 when he set personal bests in receptions (95) and receiving yards (1,196).The Eagles now have Smith and quarterback Jalen Hurts under contract through the 2028 season. Brown's deal expires following the 2026 campaign.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The New York Jets revealed their new uniforms and logo for the 2024 season, which will make their "Sack Exchange" throwback uniforms permanent.

The Indianapolis Colts and Pro Bowl defensive tackle DeForest Buckner agreed to a contract extension, the team announced Monday.Buckner's deal is two years and $46 million, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.The 30-year-old was set to become a free agent after the 2024 season. His new deal keeps him under contract through the 2026 campaign.He has been one of the Colts' most consistent players since the club acquired him in a trade with the San Francisco 49ers in 2020. He's recorded at least seven sacks in each of his four seasons in Indianapolis.Buckner is coming off a third Pro Bowl season after recording eight sacks, two forced fumbles, 11 tackles for a loss, and 21 quarterback hits. He also scored a defensive touchdown off a fumble recovery.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Star receiver Tee Higgins said Sunday he expects to remain with the Cincinnati Bengals for the 2024 campaign despite reportedly requesting a trade earlier in the offseason."We'll see. I do anticipate it," said Higgins when asked about staying in Cincinnati, according to Charlie Clifford of WLWT. "I've grown a love for Cincy that I didn't think I would, but (I'm) looking forward to it."The franchise-tagged wideout was reportedly disappointed that the Bengals haven't engaged in extension talks since March 2023.If Higgins remains with the Bengals but doesn't get a new deal, he'll play next season on the $21.8-million tag.Nine players received the franchise tag this offseason, and the 25-year-old Higgins is one of the last two yet to get a long-term extension, alongside Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Antoine Winfield Jr.Higgins had back-to-back 1,000-yard campaigns in 2021 and 2022 but finished with 656 yards last season after being limited to just 12 games.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Raiders receiver Davante Adams made it clear Sunday that he doesn't want to play anywhere other than Las Vegas despite speculation about his future earlier in the offseason."If I wanted to be gone, I'd be gone by now. ... This is where I want to be," said Adams at his third annual youth football camp, according to Tashan Reed of The Athletic.It was reported in February that Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers, Adams' former teammate with the Green Bay Packers, was trying to convince the star pass-catcher to join him in New York. The Jets reportedly also attempted to land Adams at last season's trade deadline.The Raiders' lack of an established starter under center also fueled rumors about Adams, with free-agent signing Gardner Minshew set to compete with sophomore Aidan O'Connell unless the club drafts a quarterback.But with a new era underway in Las Vegas led by head coach Antonio Pierce and general manager Tom Telesco, the six-time Pro Bowl receiver is locked in for 2024.

All-Pro wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk's agent denied a report that his client requested a trade from the San Francisco 49ers.

theScore's prospect rankings series takes a position-by-position look at the top players in the 2024 NFL Draft.QB | RB | WR | TE | OL

Andrew Luck's retirement remains arguably the most shocking one in NFL history, and the abruptness of the decision led to years of speculation that the former Indianapolis Colts quarterback would eventually change his mind.But Luck, making a rare public appearance in Indianapolis for former coach Chuck Pagano's charity fundraiser Friday, said he never considered returning to football after walking away on the eve of the 2019 season."When I retired, that part of it was put to bed in my mind," said Luck, according to James Boyd of The Athletic. "... I certainly realize I still love this game, and I want to have it integrated in my life."After years of battling injuries, the 2012 No. 1 overall pick retired at age 29. Luck's decision was leaked during a preseason game, and he was met with boos by the Colts crowd as he exited from the sideline to formally announce his retirement in a press conference.Luck led the Colts to three straight playoff appearances to begin his career. Indianapolis struggled from 2015-17 as the passer dealt with injuries but looked primed to become a consistent contender again after Luck led the club to a 10-6 record while earning his fourth Pro Bowl nomination in 2018."We were not perfect," said Luck, according to Stephen Holder of ESPN. "I know I was not perfect. All of us wished we'd had multiple Super Bowls and done things and sort of vanquished some of those enemies that we didn't quite ever get to."But I could probably speak for all the other guys, and I know I could speak for myself again - it wasn't perfect, but we tried our best. We tried our hardest, and I hope we gave folks something to cheer about and something to be proud of. And I do get the sense that we (did)."

Buffalo Bills offensive tackle Dion Dawkins is confident his team can still compete following the departures of multiple key contributors."The Stefon Diggs one, it was definitely a haymaker," Dawkins said on "The Jim Rome Show" on Friday. "A blind haymaker. But, you know, I have learned that in this world, in this career that I'm in, that pieces shuffle and things move around all of the time."He added: "I am loyal to my organization. So I trust them. I think that they know what they're doing. I know that they know what they're doing. But we got (No.) 17, and when you got Josh (Allen), anything is possible, truly."Diggs racked up four consecutive 1,100 receiving-yard seasons with Buffalo since being acquired in a trade with the Minnesota Vikings in 2020. However, Diggs had the worst stretch of his Bills tenure in the second half of the 2024 season.The 30-year-old didn't eclipse seven receptions in a single contest after Week 9 and failed to have a 100-yard receiving game following Week 6. Buffalo's offense became a run-first scheme later in the season, with the club ranking third in rushing attempts per contest last campaign.Despite throwing 18 interceptions, Allen still had a productive year. He totaled 4,830 yards with 44 touchdowns and ranked third in EPA/play out of 30 qualified quarterbacks, according to Ben Baldwin's database."As long as Josh is at quarterback, that's what I can talk for. (Sean) McDermott is our coach, and the Pegulas is our owner, and (Brandon) Beane is our GM, that window is open forever," Dawkins said.The Bills also lost Jordan Poyer, Tre'Davious White, and Micah Hyde and will look to use their 10 picks in the upcoming draft to fill holes on the roster.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow has no issue with players taunting each other during games.While speaking with Travis and Jason Kelce at a live taping of the "New Heights" podcast Thursday night, Burrow said he's "pro-taunting" and doesn't take offense when others celebrate that way."We're all grown adults that work really hard at what we do. And sometimes we'd like to show it," Burrow said, according to Olivia Ray of WLWT. "I'm not gonna get my feelings hurt if somebody sacks me and taunts me like you made a play."Burrow has made his stance known before. After Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers was flagged for taunting during the AFC Championship Game in January, Burrow called on the NFL to "let the guys taunt."

Joe Burrow said the Cincinnati Bengals are constructed to defeat the Kansas City Chiefs."Both teams have great players. We are kind of built to beat them," Burrow said on a live edition of the "New Heights" podcast, according to Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic.When Burrow was introduced to do the podcast at Fifth Third Arena in Cincinnati, fans gave him a massive ovation.

Hannah McNair, the wife of Houston Texans owner Cal McNair, expressed Thursday that the team is all-in for the 2024 season."There's quite a buzz amongst the younger generation about the guys we've brought in. So, that's exciting," Hannah told Randy McIlvoy of KPRC 2 Houston.She added: "We want to win now."The Texans have been one of the more active teams this offseason, making multiple moves that signal the club's seriousness about contending for a Super Bowl in the coming years.Houston wasted no time when the new league year opened, securing the services of pass-rusher Danielle Hunter and veteran running back Joe Mixon. The team later acquired star wide receiver Stefon Diggs in a blockbuster trade with the Buffalo Bills.The Texans rank sixth out of all teams in money spent on free-agent signings and contract extensions this offseason, according to Spotrac."We embrace the expectations," Cal McNair said. "That's where we want to be. At the same time, it's about building the team, and the team being coached and working hard."It's the day-to-day things that are going to get us where we want to get to, but we got to stay focused and work hard every day to bring about where we want to go."After a challenging period from 2020-22, where the Texans had a combined record of 11-38-1, the team's fortunes took a turn for the better. Adding quarterback C.J. Stroud and head coach DeMeco Ryans in 2023 sparked a resurgence, as the Texans went 10-7 en route to an AFC South crown and a spot in the divisional round.Houston has nine picks in the 2024 NFL Draft, which kicks off on April 25.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Philadelphia Eagles signed free-agent tight end C.J. Uzomah to a one-year deal, the team announced Thursday.Uzomah spent the first seven years of his NFL career with the Cincinnati Bengals after they selected him in the fifth round of the 2015 draft. He produced 192 catches for 1,881 yards and 16 touchdowns with the Bengals.The veteran joined the New York Jets in 2022 after racking up career highs in catches (49), yards (493), and touchdown receptions (five) the year before. But Uzomah struggled to establish himself in New York's offense, earning 232 yards in his first season and just 58 yards in 2023.Uzomah will act as depth behind standout tight end Dallas Goedert. After Jack Stoll signed with the New York Giants in free agency, Philadelphia needed to bolster its depth chart, which also contains Grant Calcaterra, Albert Okwuegbunam, and Noah Togiai.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Legendary quarterback Tom Brady is open to coming out of retirement to play in the NFL again if the right team calls."I'm not opposed to it," the seven-time Super Bowl champion said in the latest episode of the "DeepCut with VicBlends" podcast hosted by Victor Fontanez.Fontanez mentioned the San Francisco 49ers as a hypothetical landing spot for Brady, who brought up two other teams."(The New England) Patriots, it could be the (Las Vegas) Raiders, you never know," he said."I don't know if they're going to let me if I become an owner in the NFL," Brady continued. "I'm always going to be in good shape, always be able to throw the ball. So, to come in for a little bit like MJ coming back, I don't know if they let me, but I wouldn't be opposed to it."

Minnesota Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah said Thursday that the front office and coaching staff are enamored with multiple quarterback prospects ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft."We've felt that way for a long time," Adofo-Mensah said during his pre-draft press conference. "When you go back to the team element and value, there's multiple guys that we're in love with just on an outright basis. But there's other guys that we're in love with if we can get them at a certain value."He added, "A lot of times evaluators can be a little one-track mind: "This is the guy and nobody else." That's not how it's been. We've really come to appreciate how guys get to their answer a different way, and I think that's going to serve us well."The Vikings have a major question at quarterback after losing Kirk Cousins to free agency, as their depth chart at the sport's most important position features Jaren Hall, Nick Mullens, and the recently signed Sam Darnold.Minnesota has been heavily linked to a trade up in the draft to take a signal-caller. The team owns the 11th overall pick - a slot that may not be high enough to land a top quarterback prospect this year - but recently acquired an extra first-round selection - 23rd overall - from the Houston Texans.The draft is headlined by quarterbacks Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, and Jayden Daniels. This class also includes potential first-round passers in J.J. McCarthy - whose draft stock has been rising lately - and Michael Penix Jr.The Chicago Bears are widely expected to select Williams first overall, while the Washington Commanders are also projected to take a QB at No. 2. The New England Patriots own the third overall pick but could trade down to address other roster needs.The Vikings haven't drafted a quarterback in Round 1 since taking Teddy Bridgewater in 2014. Under Adofo-Mensah, the team's first picks in the last two drafts were safety Lewis Cine and receiver Jordan Addison.Adofo-Mensah said Thursday that he understands the risks behind drafting a quarterback early in the first round, but he's not intimidated by it."Just because something is risky doesn't mean you're scared of it," the 42-year-old executive added. "It's uncertain and we've got to take our swing, but that doesn't give us any pause."In the latest edition of theScore's NFL mock draft, the Vikings trade up to select Maye at No. 3.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Lions quarterback Jared Goff thinks it's time for members of the Detroit media to embrace the team's momentum and leave behind the franchise's past failures."I probably need to drop it pretty soon because I'm hopefully gonna be in Detroit for a long time, but I have this thing with our local media where like they almost relish in negativity at times," Goff recently said on the "Trading Cards" podcast. "And maybe that's what gets clicks and that's what sells, but it's no longer what they need to live in."The Lions won their first-ever NFC North title in 2023 and reached the NFC title game against the San Francisco 49ers. Detroit - which hadn't won a division title since clinching the NFC Central in 1993 - ultimately fell short in a 34-31 defeat."Hey guys, we have a good team. We've had success," the veteran passer added. "We can be happy about that, we can celebrate that and not have to write about how we're constantly the underdog. No, teams are gonna be gunning for us now. We won the division and all that."While elaborating on the Detroit media's coverage, Goff specifically mentioned an exchange with a reporter during a January press conference leading up to the 49ers game in which he was asked about a perceived gap in skill between Detroit and San Francisco."I wasn't trying to be rude to the guy," Goff said, adding, "That's our own beat reporter that's been with us for three years. You haven't been in San Francisco. You know what our team looks like. Why do we gotta talk about how good their players are? Talk about how good our players are. That's like how I felt."Are we privileged to play this game because they have a bunch of good players? Like, is that what you're saying? So, I was like 'OK (Amon-Ra) St. Brown was first-team All-Pro. Penei Sewell was first-team All-Pro. Frank Ragnow. Sam LaPorta. You want me to keep going? I know they have a lot of good players. So do we."The first overall pick in 2016, Goff began his career with the Los Angeles Rams and was traded to the Lions for quarterback Matthew Stafford during the 2021 offseason. The 29-year-old has passed for 78 touchdowns against 27 interceptions since joining Detroit.In 2023, the Lions ranked fifth in total points and had their most wins in a season since 1991. Detroit - one of 12 teams that haven't won a Super Bowl - has significantly improved since Dan Campbell took over as head coach three years ago. The team won three games in 2021 and nine in 2022 before posting a 12-5 record in 2023.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The 2024 NFL Draft kicks off two weeks from tonight.While the first pick seems to have been locked in throughout this entire process, it's anyone's guess as to what happens after that. Here's our latest look at how the first round could shake out.Caleb Williams, QB, USCGeneral manager Ryan Poles, head coach Matt Eberflus, and new receiver Keenan Allen were all in attendance at Williams' pro day in Los Angeles. The 2022 Heisman winner was his usual brilliant self and essentially cemented the No. 1 overall selection.Jayden Daniels, QB, LSUIt's tough to ignore the buzz connecting Daniels to the Commanders at No. 2. The LSU product is a dual-threat star whose precision in the vertical passing game could make him a particularly strong fit with offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury.MOCK TRADE: Vikings move up from No. 11 in deal with PatriotsDrake Maye, QB, North CarolinaMost thought the Vikings were eyeing a trade to grab J.J. McCarthy, but Minnesota opts to package its first-round picks (No. 11 and No. 23) and more to move all the way to No. 3 and take Maye. The 6-foot-4, 225-pounder features all the tools you'd want in a first-round quarterback and should benefit greatly from being under the watch of Kevin O'Connell.Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio StateThe consensus top three quarterbacks coming off the board to start the draft makes this less likely of a trade spot, but that's just fine with the Cardinals. Sitting tight at No. 4 and coming away with a generational receiver prospect like Harrison is a great way to upgrade the offense.Joe Alt, OT, Notre DameThere might only be one person alive who doesn't think the Chargers need a wide receiver with the fifth pick. Since that person, Jim Harbaugh, also happens to be the team's new head coach, expect the draft's best offensive tackle to be the selection.Malik Nabers, WR, LSUThe Giants could go with a quarterback here, but it's tough to force that kind of pick if you're settling for whichever one falls to you. Nabers, who some see as the WR1 over Harrison, fills another massive need in the passing game.Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon StateThe Titans add a further piece to their offseason rebuild on offense with Fuaga on the line. Fuaga can play either tackle position and will immediately be an elite blocker in the run game for the duo of Tyjae Spears and Tony Pollard.Dallas Turner, EDGE, AlabamaWe've connected Turner to the Falcons for much of the pre-draft process, and we're sticking to it. Atlanta adding the top pass-rusher in the draft makes too much sense after it took care of other needs in free agency.Rome Odunze, WR, WashingtonIf the Bears can leave the opening round with both Williams and Odunze, Poles might get handed a contract extension before Day 2. The 6-foot-3, 212-pounder turned in outstanding testing numbers, but it's his tape where he really shines. There isn't a better contested-catch receiver in the draft, and he'll instantly become a favorite target for his new quarterback.MOCK TRADE: Broncos move up from No. 12 in deal with JetsJ.J. McCarthy, QB, MichiganWith McCarthy falling further than expected, Sean Payton makes the move up to get his quarterback of the future. Sliding back two spots gets the Jets some additional draft capital and ensures that the Michigan star doesn't fall to the Patriots.MOCK TRADE: Pick received from Vikings in deal for No. 3Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn StateThe Patriots traded back to No. 11 likely expecting McCarthy to be available, but they have to pivot after the Broncos moved up to grab the quarterback. That sees them land the 6-foot-6 Fashanu - an intriguing athlete who needs some polish before he can dominate at the pro level.MOCK TRADE: Pick received from Broncos in deal for No. 10Brock Bowers, TE, GeorgiaBowers could be the final piece for a Jets offense that's retooled its offensive line and added Mike Williams at receiver. The Georgia standout has rare playmaking traits for a tight end.Troy Fautanu, OT, WashingtonWith four quarterbacks already off the board, the Raiders won't address that position in the opening round. Instead, Las Vegas adds some quality depth to the offensive line with Fautanu, an incredibly physical prospect who can play both guard and tackle.Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSUThe Saints have to upgrade their skill-position talent on offense. Thomas offers a rare blend of size and speed on the outside, making him an outstanding running mate for Chris Olave.Quinyon Mitchell, CB, ToledoThe Colts love to take swings on highly athletic prospects with a variety of tools - a description that fits Mitchell perfectly. His testing numbers were off the charts, and he showed throughout his college career that he's as physical a corner as there is in the draft.Jared Verse, EDGE, Florida StateA top pass-rusher falling to this spot represents an ideal scenario for the Seahawks. Verse provides a much-needed upgrade on the edge of the Seattle defense.Terrion Arnold, CB, AlabamaArnold might be available at No. 17, but he's certainly better than the 17th-best prospect in this draft. NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah has Arnold as the top defensive player in this class, and the Jaguars will be thrilled to grab him this late in the first round.Adonai Mitchell, WR, TexasThe Bengals could already use another receiver. That position becomes a glaring need if Tee Higgins gets the trade he desires. Mitchell could be an outstanding playmaker alongside Ja'Marr Chase.Laiatu Latu, EDGE, UCLAThere's no way to replace Aaron Donald, but Latu could soften the blow of the All-Pro lineman's departure. The UCLA star led the nation with 21.5 tackles for loss and posted 13 sacks in his final collegiate season.JC Latham, OT, AlabamaThe Steelers have their left tackle of the future in 2023 first-round pick Broderick Jones. Latham being available at this spot offers a unique opportunity to solidify the offensive line with another high-end talent at right tackle.Byron Murphy II, DL, TexasThe Dolphins address Christian Wilkins' departure in the offseason by taking Murphy at No. 21. The Texas standout is an athletic freak and pops off the page as a game-wrecker in the interior.Cooper DeJean, DB, IowaThe Eagles could use some help at both cornerback and safety. DeJean is a supremely gifted cover man who could fit in at either spot.MOCK TRADE: Pick received from Vikings in deal for No. 3Michael Penix Jr., QB, WashingtonIf Penix is available at No. 23, the Patriots will likely take a swing after passing earlier in the opening round. There are injury red flags for the Washington star, but there's no doubting his ridiculous arm and production in college.Amarius Mims, OT, GeorgiaMims may be lacking in starting experience, but he has all the traits the Cowboys will be seeking in a long-term left tackle. Landing the Georgia product in this spot would also allow Dallas to keep All-Pro guard Tyler Smith in the interior.Graham Barton, OL, DukeThe Packers need some offensive line depth, and Barton can fill multiple roles with his versatility up front. Barton might not possess the same elite physical traits as the other first-round linemen, but he plays with an edge that'll help him at the next level.Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, AlabamaAn offseason trade sending Carlton Davis to the Lions should make cornerback the top need for the Bucs on draft weekend. McKinstry is a pro-ready cover man who would fit nicely opposite Jamel Dean.Jer'Zhan Newton, DL, IllinoisThe Cardinals go with defense at No. 27 and add an impressive athlete at defensive tackle with Newton. The 6-foot-2, 304-pounder unleashed a noteworthy 22.5 tackles for loss and also blocked four kicks last season.Xavier Worthy, WR, TexasThe Bills can't go into the season without making a major move to replace Stefon Diggs at receiver. Worthy, who ran a combine-record 4.21 40-yard dash, would be a fascinating fit as a vertical threat for Josh Allen.Nate Wiggins, CB, ClemsonTo say the Lions' secondary was an issue last year would be a major understatement. Wiggins may lack slightly in size, but he possesses otherworldly recovery speed that he showed with a 4.28 40-yard dash at the combine.Ladd McConkey, WR, GeorgiaThe Ravens finally made a major addition to the receiver room with Zay Flowers in the first round last year. Finding him a long-term running mate should be a priority, and offensive coordinator Todd Monken is familiar with McConkey's underrated game as his former play-caller at Georgia.Jackson Powers-Johnson, OL, OregonThe 49ers grab Powers-Johnson after the offensive line took a step back last year. The nation's top center has exceptional size and is one of the more powerful players at the position in recent memory.Tyler Guyton, OT, OklahomaThe Chiefs don't need to force a receiver pick after landing Marquise Brown in free agency. Waiting to address the left tackle spot isn't an option. Guyton is a good athlete who could be a high-level pass-protector for Patrick Mahomes.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Cleveland Browns and running back Nick Chubb agreed to a reworked contract that lowers his $11.775-million base salary in 2024, sources told Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.Chubb can earn up to $12.2 million through incentives, while his salary-cap hit will be reduced from $15.85 million to $6.275 million, Jake Trotter and Adam Schefter of ESPN report.The 28-year-old, who's entering the final year of his deal, suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 2 last campaign. Chubb first had surgery to repair a torn MCL and meniscus in September before fixing his ACL in a second procedure in November.After Chubb's second surgery, the Browns said the star running back was expected to "be able to return to play during the 2024 season."Chubb led Cleveland in rushing each year from 2018-22 and had a career-high 1,525 yards in 2022. He earned four Pro Bowl nominations and one second-team All-Pro nod while producing 6,511 yards and 48 scores in his six seasons with the AFC North club.The Browns relied on Jerome Ford, Kareem Hunt, and Pierre Strong in Chubb's absence last year, with Cleveland's rushing offense ranking sixth in 2022 and falling to 12th in 2023.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Even though Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald has quashed any potential for a quarterback competition between Geno Smith and Sam Howell, Smith isn't taking anything for granted."New coaching staff, old coaching staff, I've got everything to prove," Smith said Wednesday, according to Bob Condotta of the Seattle Times.He added: "I'm competing with everybody in this building to be the best that I can be, so I really don't approach it any other way."Speculation began regarding a possible battle for Seattle's starting quarterback job after the Seahawks traded for Howell last month. However, Macdonald confirmed later in March that Smith will be the starter heading into training camp.The 33-year-old Smith didn't have a smooth season last year after an impressive 2022 campaign. He went 8-7 in 15 starts during 2023 while throwing only 20 touchdowns to nine interceptions. Seattle can move on from Smith with little salary ramifications next offseason when he has no guaranteed money on the three-year, $75-million contract he signed last March.Despite his desire to prove himself, Smith praised Howell, who threw for 21 touchdowns and a league-leading 21 interceptions across 17 starts for the Washington Commanders last year."I'm very impressed with Sam," Smith said.He added: "You can tell he's a hard worker. You can tell he's competitive, and he wants to learn, and he asks the right questions in the meeting room. Obviously, he's a guy who has played games in the NFL, and he's done well."Smith has 14,823 passing yards with 84 touchdowns and 57 interceptions in 77 career contests.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers admitted that he didn't think he'd play again after suffering an Achilles injury last year."I was really thinking, 'This is it. You don't come back from this injury,'" Rodgers recently said on the "I Can Fly" podcast.Rodgers posted a decorated 18-year career with the Green Bay Packers before being traded to the Jets during the 2023 offseason. The four-time NFL MVP, who considered retirement multiple times over his final years with the Packers, said he fell "back in love with the game" in New York."I had this incredible offseason experience in a new city, in a new town, with new teammates, a new organization, an owner for the first time," the 40-year-old said."It was absolutely beautiful and special and deep and rich and yummy and just incredible," he added.After an exciting 2023 offseason, Rodgers made his long-waited Jets debut on Monday Night Football against the Buffalo Bills last September but tore his left Achilles tendon four snaps into the game."One of the most heartbreaking nights of my life, when I played four plays. Talk about an ego death," he said.Rodgers underwent an innovative surgery on his torn left Achilles to speed up his recovery and was a limited participant at practice in late December. With New York eliminated from playoff contention in the season's final stretch, however, the veteran signal-caller was shut down for the remainder of the campaign.The Jets, who haven't made the playoffs since the 2010 season, made aggressive moves this offseason, singing receiver Mike Williams and left tackle Tyron Smith, among others. New York also traded for edge rusher Haason Reddick and right tackle Morgan Moses."I'm excited about playing again," Rodgers said. "I love playing. I fell back in love with the game and then I had it taken away after four plays. I miss being out there, I love competing."Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our Betting section and subscribing to push notifications.Caleb Williams seems like a shoo-in to go first overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. Of course, that means he'll be the first quarterback drafted.Part of the allure of the NFL draft is the positional nature of the sport. You can pick 23rd and still get the best available player at a position. In turn, each position group has its corresponding market to bet for the first player to hear his name called.First wide receiver draftedPLAYERODDSMarvin Harrison Jr.-600Malik Nabers+250Rome Odunze+2500Players listed at 100-1 or longer are not listedThis market is similarly prohibitive to where the No. 1 overall pick market sat all season, with Marvin Harrison Jr. priced as 85.7% likely to become the first receiver off the board. It asks the bettor to either be sure that the presumed pick is a certainty - like in the case of Williams - or to come up with an alternative player whose stock may soar at the last minute.First running back draftedPLAYER ODDSTrey Benson+150Jonathon Brooks+250Jaylen Wright+400Blake Corum+500MarShawn Lloyd+500Braelon Allen+2500Audric Estime+3000Bucky Irving+3000Players listed at 40-1 or longer are not listedThe odds for a tailback to go in the first round aren't high, meaning we likely won't see one picked until the second. Any number of teams could take a flier on a running back that fits their needs (zone-blocking scheme, heavy pass offense, pass-protection responsibilities, etc.). Trey Benson might have the most talent, but he may not be the best fit. So, looking at an underdog here is the move.First offensive lineman draftedPLAYER ODDSJoe Alt-400Taliese Fuaga+350Olumuyiwa Fashanu+650JC Latham+1000Troy Fautanu+2300Amarius Mims+4000Players listed at 100-1 or longer are not listedAt -400, the implication is that Notre Dame's Joe Alt is 80% likely to be the first offensive lineman selected. That assessment might be low given his potential at left tackle, but it's best to steer clear from laying four units to win one two weeks out with four other offensive linemen capable of going in the top half of the first round.First defensive player draftedPLAYER ODDSDallas Turner-190Laiatu Latu+400Jared Verse+600Quinyon Mitchell+600Byron Murphy II+1200Terrion Arnold+2500Chop Robinson+4500Players listed at 80-1 or longer are not listedLike former Alabama teammate Will Anderson last year, Dallas Turner is the favorite to become the first defensive player off the board in 2024. However, the markets for offensive linemen and wide receivers are more certain than here. Mel Kiper has Turner (No. 8) four spots ahead of Quinyon Mitchell (No. 12) in his latest mock draft, but the key is positional scarcity.Top edge rushers are relatively scarce this year, so teams are incentivized to pounce on the one or two standouts. The Falcons (No. 8) have an obvious need at edge rusher, which also increases Turner's chances of going first among defenders.First cornerback draftedPLAYER ODDSQuinyon Mitchell-200Terrion Arnold+200Cooper DeJean+500Nate Wiggins+2000Kool-Aid McKinstry+5000Players listed at 100-1 or longer are not listedMitchell has shorter odds here than Turner has among defensive players. However, four corners, including Mitchell, are slotted in between No. 12 and No. 22 in Kiper's mock draft. Cornerback is rife with viable options, so that cluster may collectively drift down in favor of players manning more scarce positions. At which point, Arnold, DeJean, Wiggins, or even McKinstry could be taken over Mitchell if a team prefers their skill set for its defensive scheme.As you can see, there are a multitude of ways to think about these markets with two weeks to go until the 2024 NFL Draft.Matt Russell is the lead betting analyst for theScore. If there's a bad beat to be had, Matt will find it. Find him on social media @mrussauthentic.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Jacksonville Jaguars re-signed franchise-tagged pass-rusher Josh Allen to a five-year extension, the team announced Wednesday.Allen's extension is worth $150 million and includes $88 million guaranteed, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.Allen's reported $30-million average annual salary ranks third among defenders, behind Nick Bosa ($34 million) and Chris Jones ($31.75 million), according to Spotrac.The Jaguars used the one-year, $24-million tender on Allen in early March after he set a franchise record in 2023 with 17.5 sacks, a career-high mark that tied for second in the NFL.Jacksonville general manager Trent Baalke promised in January that the star defender wouldn't be allowed to leave the AFC South club.Allen is the seventh player hit with the franchise tag this offseason to land a long-term contract. Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Antoine Winfield and Cincinnati Bengals receiver Tee Higgins - who reportedly requested a trade - are the only franchise-tagged players yet to sign.

Quarterback Caleb Williams, widely considered the top prospect in the 2024 NFL Draft, strongly criticized the idea that he didn't experience enough adversity during his college football career.Williams took to social media to address the comments made by ESPN analyst and former Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy, who said not having a chip on his shoulder could be a concern for Williams."Caleb Williams, from the time he stepped on campus at Oklahoma to the time he stepped on campus at USC, he has never experienced adversity," McElroy recently said on "This Is Football" podcast. "Very little adversity as far as how he was received and how he was portrayed as the next best guy. ... I do wonder about, is there a sense of entitlement, is there the chip on the shoulder that's going to keep him going 10-12 years down the road the way it does (Patrick) Mahomes, who's still pissed that he got drafted 10th."McElroy added: "The chip-on-the-shoulder aspect is something that I've valued more in recent years, and I'm just not 100% sure that Caleb Williams has that."The comments didn't sit well with Williams."Let's go back to school again," Williams wrote in his response to McElroy before listing three challenges he faced in college, including a hamstring injury and USC's disappointing 2023 season.

Find positional rankings, additional analysis, and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.theScore's Justin Boone was first overall in FantasyPros' Most Accurate Expert Competition in 2019 and finished among the top seven each of his last seven years in the contest.Follow the links below to see his 2024 rankings.Half PPR

theScore's prospect rankings series takes a position-by-position look at the top players in the 2024 NFL Draft.QB | RB | WR | TE | OL

theScore's prospect rankings series takes a position-by-position look at the top players in the 2024 NFL Draft.QB | RB | WR | TE | OL

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Antoine Winfield Jr. are working toward a new deal that would make the franchise-tagged star the NFL's highest-paid safety, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.There's optimism an extension will be completed, adds Schefter.Los Angeles Chargers' Derwin James is the league's highest-paid safety at $19 million per year.Winfield and Cincinnati Bengals receiver Tee Higgins are the two remaining franchise-tagged players who haven't signed a long-term deal this offseason. Seven others received extensions.Winfield, the No. 45 pick in the 2020 draft, was named a first-team All-Pro for the first time in 2023 after producing 122 tackles, six sacks, three interceptions, and six forced fumbles.The Bucs and Winfield have until July 15 to come to an agreement, or the defensive back will play on the $17.1-million tender.Copyright (C) 2024 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.