Terry McLaurin is skipping mandatory minicamp, but Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera remains confident the team can strike a deal with the wide receiver."I believe (talks are) headed in the right direction," Rivera said Tuesday ahead of the three-day workout session, according to ESPN's John Keim.Rivera noted that Washington began extension negotiations with McLaurin earlier than it did with defensive tackle Jonathan Allen last year, and Allen signed his long-term deal before the start of training camp."We understand what Terry is trying to do. We want him here. He's going to be here," Rivera said. "We believe in him as a football player."A player who misses all three days of minicamp can be fined a total of $93,085.McLaurin is seeking an extension amid a booming market for receivers this offseason. Tyreek Hill and Davante Adams reset the market with extensions worth $30 million and $28 million per season, respectively.Meanwhile, A.J. Brown, whom the Tennessee Titans selected in the same draft (2019) as McLaurin, received a four-year, $100-million extension after being traded to the Philadelphia Eagles during April's draft.DK Metcalf and Deebo Samuel, two other 2019 draft picks, are also pushing for new deals. Metcalf opted to stay away from the Seattle Seahawks' minicamp, while Samuel attended the San Franciso 49ers' workouts.McLaurin is entering the final year of his rookie deal, worth $2.7 million.The 26-year-old is coming off his second straight 1,000-yard season despite working with inconsistent quarterback play through his first three years.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Carolina Panthers and Cleveland Browns continue to discuss a potential trade for quarterback Baker Mayfield as both teams begin mandatory minicamp, sources told Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports.The Panthers feel an "urgency" to complete the deal soon to give Mayfield time at minicamp, but how much of his $18.8-million salary they'll pay remains a major issue, Jones added.The Browns excused Mayfield from minicamp in an apparent mutual agreement. The AFC North club reportedly is intent on not releasing the signal-caller despite trading for Deshaun Watson.The Panthers began their pursuit of the 2018 first overall selection earlier in the offseason but reportedly decided to hold off on making a move prior to April's draft.Carolina passed on using the sixth overall pick on a quarterback, instead opting to take Matt Corral in the third round. Veteran Sam Darnold remains in line to start after a poor first season with the Panthers in 2021.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Dallas Cowboys tight end Dalton Schultz will report to mandatory minicamp Tuesday, a source told Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.Schultz's attendance reportedly comes as contract talks with Dallas have picked up, though a deal still isn't imminent. The 25-year-old is currently slated to play on the franchise tag, worth $10.931 million for 2022.The Cowboys and Schultz, who sat out the last session of OTAs after attending earlier workouts, have until July 15 to negotiate a long-term deal.He could've been fined $15,515 for skipping the first day of minicamp, $31,030 for the second, and $46,540 for the third.Schultz produced a career year last season, racking up 78 catches for 808 yards and eight touchdowns. He could be set for an even more prominent role in 2022 following receiver Amari Cooper's trade to the Cleveland Browns.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster can envision a reunion with the Pittsburgh Steelers."I could see myself back here," Smith-Schuster said Sunday during a charity event in Pittsburgh, according to Sports Illustrated's Mike McDaniel. "Even today, this shows a lot, that I still have fans out here coming out to support me."Smith-Schuster signed a reported one-year, $3.25-million contract with the Kansas City Chiefs in March after spending the first five seasons of his career with the Steelers."It was huge to come back," Smith-Schuster said. "I spent five years here, to come back to the city where I started my career. When you sign and go to a new team, you move so fast that I literally picked up all my stuff and moved. I didn't have time to say bye to the fans. What we're doing today is really cool."The 2018 Pro Bowler racked up 323 receptions for 3,855 yards and 26 touchdowns during his tenure in Pittsburgh. A shoulder injury limited Smith-Schuster to five regular-season games last season, but he managed to play in the Steelers' wild-card loss to the Chiefs.Pittsburgh moved on from Smith-Schuster by drafting George Pickens to a receiving corps headlined by Diontae Johnson.Smith-Schuster is expected to help the Chiefs' passing game following Tyreek Hill's departure. He joins a formidable pass-catching group featuring Travis Kelce, Mecole Hardman, and Marquez Valdes-Scantling, with Patrick Mahomes under center.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Los Angeles Rams chief operating officer Kevin Demoff is among those who believe that wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. will eventually reach an agreement with the club in 2022."If we didn't have a salary cap, we could've signed Odell months ago and would've loved to," Demoff said, according to Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic. "The one variable that hasn't changed is how much we love him and want him to be there."Am I optimistic we can get a deal done over time? Yes."Demoff noted there isn't a firm timeline to reach an agreement with the 29-year-old. Beckham remains an unrestricted free agent as he continues to rehab from a torn ACL suffered during L.A.'s Super Bowl LVI victory over the Cincinnati Bengals.Earlier speculation from the Rams indicated that Beckham could be back on the field by November if his rehab remains on schedule, a source told The Athletic."With Odell, I think, given the rehab (and) the timeline of coming back probably mid-to-later in the year, I just think that the sense of urgency both from his side and probably from our side - and maybe other teams - is not right there, for him," Demoff said.The Rams executive becomes the latest voice from the team who would like to reconnect with Beckham. Wideout Cooper Kupp and head coach Sean McVay are among notable vocal advocates who have requested a reunion with the three-time Pro Bowler.Beckham signed with the Rams after the Cleveland Browns released him last campaign. He recorded 27 receptions for 305 yards and five touchdowns in eight regular-season games with L.A. The 2014 first-round pick continued to be productive in postseason play, tallying 21 catches for 288 yards to go along with two scores.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Although Denver Broncos running back Melvin Gordon believes most people have slotted in Javonte Williams as the team's starter, the veteran rusher isn't willing to concede the lead role."I told (general manager George Paton) when I was at the (negotiating) table, I'm not going to lay down ... I've always got that mindset that I've got to go get it every year," Gordon said, according to ESPN's Jeff Legwold."I know a lot of people want me to take the back seat, and I get it. It's been like that for a while. It was like that with the (Los Angeles) Chargers - everybody wanted Austin (Ekeler) to start. I just come out here and do my thing. Thanks for the motivation everybody, I appreciate y'all."Williams has been Denver's lead back during most of the team's on-field work this offseason after rushing for 903 yards and four touchdowns as a rookie in 2021. However, he previously noted that "if I have to split carries, or if I'm the starter, it doesn't matter. Whatever it is, I'm just trying to win the Super Bowl." Williams added that he'd kept in touch with Gordon.Gordon skipped the club's voluntary OTAs. Monday marked the first time he's practiced with his teammates since re-signing with the Broncos on a one-year, $2.5-million contract.The tailback's third campaign with the Broncos will see him reunited with former college teammate Russell Wilson, who Denver acquired in a blockbuster trade. Gordon will also work with a new head coach in Nathaniel Hackett, who's eager to see him in action."We're excited to put him in there and watch him roll," Hackett said.He added: "You can't have too many running backs."Gordon missed just one contest last season despite fighting through hip, shoulder, and thumb ailments. He rushed for a team-high 918 yards and eight touchdowns while averaging 4.5 yards per carry. Gordon also hauled in 28 receptions for 213 yards.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Find positional rankings, additional analysis, and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.With the NFL draft behind us and almost all the notable free agents signed, it's time to identify this season's fantasy breakout candidates.Trey Lance, QB, 49ers Ezra Shaw / Getty Images Sport / GettyFantasy managers waited patiently for Trey Lance to be handed the starting job in his rookie year, but 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan stuck with veteran Jimmy Garoppolo until the end of the season.However, we did get a glimpse at what the future holds for San Francisco's offense and the fantasy quarterback landscape when Lance stepped in for an injured Jimmy G over three extended appearances. During those three contests where Lance played at least 50% of the snaps - two of which were starts - the first-year passer averaged over 18 fantasy points per game while finishing as a top-13 QB in weekly scoring twice.His numbers were unsurprisingly padded by strong rushing totals, which is one of his best attributes dating back to his last complete college season when he ran for 1,100 yards in 16 games. That was before he sat out most of the 2020 campaign due to the COVID-19 pandemic and before the 49ers traded up to select him third overall in the 2021 NFL Draft.As disappointed as the fantasy community was by his delayed launch, spending most of last year learning behind Garoppolo might end up being the best thing for a raw prospect like Lance. By all accounts, the 22-year-old has impressed this offseason on the practice field, as a leader, and in interviews as the new face of the franchise.

The Washington Commanders don't expect wide receiver Terry McLaurin to attend the start of mandatory minicamp on Tuesday, sources told Nicki Jhabvala of the Washington Post.McLaurin's representatives have been negotiating a contract extension with the Commanders. While there's been some progress toward a deal, the two sides remain far from reaching an agreement, according to Jhabvala.The 26-year-old wideout initially attended voluntary offseason workouts before opting to skip OTAs with his contract situation still unresolved.McLaurin is entering the final year of his rookie deal, which will see him earn $2.7 million in 2022.Head coach Ron Rivera remains optimistic that there will be an agreement in place and anticipates all his players attending minicamp."I expect all our players to be here because it is mandatory," head coach Ron Rivera said, according to Bryan Manning of Commanders Wire.It's unclear whether the team will excuse McLaurin's nonappearance, but an unexcused absence could result in a fine for each day the star wideout misses during minicamp. He could be subject to a total of $95,877 for missing the 3-day sessions, Jhabvala adds.The Ohio State product has led Washington in receiving yards in each of his first three seasons with the club, including back-to-back 1,000-yard campaigns in 2020 and 2021. McLaurin reeled in 77 receptions for 1,053 yards and five touchdowns last year.McLaurin is among a group of talented receivers, including DK Metcalf and Deebo Samuel, who are seeking a long-term extension.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Jacksonville Jaguars are confident they know the best position fit for Travon Walker's NFL career debut."I think his best position is outside linebacker because of his length, his athletic ability going against tackles," defensive coordinator Mike Caldwell said, according to John Reid of The Florida Times-Union. "That is a premium position in this defense. He can play other positions, but his home for us is outside linebacker, where we see him being a force."Walker, 21, thrived at multiple positions within Georgia's national title-winning defense. However, the Jaguars are allowing the rookie to focus on one position as he acclimates to pro competition.The 6-foot-5, 275-pound Walker brings unique, size, strength, and speed, which led Jacksonville to take him with the first overall pick in the 2022 draft."He is unique," Caldwell added. "He plays that way, and you see it on tape. You see the burst, you see the speed, you see the moves he has. We are excited about him, and I think he will be ready to roll."Walker moonlighted at outside linebacker in college but was not extensively featured at the position. He believes that with more reps entering the campaign, he'll get a firmer grasp of his duties."Just strictly working on outside linebacker things in practice, I feel like I'm truly getting more comfortable with the position," Walker said last month, according to team reporter John Oehser. "There's always room for improvement."While the Jags are not closing the door on working the rookie elsewhere on defense, Walker is embracing a full-time move to the outside so his journey can begin at linebacker.Jacksonville is aiming to create a productive pass-rush tandem, pairing Walker with veteran Josh Allen. The Jaguars also drafted Devin Lloyd, who they expect to contribute at middle linebacker following Myles Jack's release in March after six seasons.The Jaguars will get to see some of their younger members in action ahead of their minicamp next week. Most of the team's veterans could miss the three-day session after head coach Doug Pederson excused them from attending due to their pleasing performance at the voluntary OTA sessions.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Seattle Seahawks running back Chris Carson hopes to play in 2022 but said there's "no timeline" for his return."I see myself playing until I feel like stopping. My mindset is never to give up," Carson told Heavy.com's Jonathan Adams. "So, I'm staying positive like I said and (will) continue to fight and get back onto the field."Carson suffered a neck injury that limited him to four games in 2021 and is continuing to rehab following surgery.The 27-year-old hasn't taken part in any offseason activities with the Seahawks and has yet to be medically cleared as he works to get the full range of motion in his neck back.Carson, who missed the team's minicamp this week, will meet with team doctors and his surgeon later in June to determine if he can play in 2022, according to Tim Booth of the Associated Press."We had a real good chance to hang out with him and feel him, and he's concerned because he wants to play," head coach Pete Carroll said. While Carroll hinted that Carson's career could be in jeopardy, the Seahawks tailback isn't considering retirement."I never thought about stuff like that," Carson told Corbin K. Smith of Sports Illustrated. "And my mindset is: If I have a chance to get out on the field, I'm going to do whatever I can to get back on the field."The former seventh-round pick has dealt with multiple injuries since joining the club in 2017. He suffered a fractured ankle in 2017 and a cracked hip in 2019.Carson accumulated 4,306 scrimmage yards (3,502 rushing, 804 receiving) and 31 total touchdowns over five seasons with the Seahawks.Seattle re-signed Rashaad Penny and drafted Kenneth Walker to shore up its depth at halfback.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera fined defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio $100,000 for his comments comparing the violent attack on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, to the protests in the wake of the police killing of George Floyd, the team announced Friday.Rivera said in a statement that he met with Del Rio "to express how disappointed I am in his comments." The head coach added that Del Rio's fine will be donated to the United States Capitol Police Memorial Fund.

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Robbie Anderson is considering retirement ahead of his seventh NFL campaign. Anderson, 29, is heading into his third season with the Panthers in 2022.The veteran wideout signed a two-year, $29.5-million extension with the Panthers prior to last season. He's set to count $10.9 million toward the salary cap, according to Over the Cap.The Temple product spent his first four seasons in the league as a member of the New York Jets after going undrafted in 2016. He recorded 207 receptions, 3,059 yards, and 20 touchdowns during his tenure in New York.Anderson posted career highs in receptions (95) and yards (1,096) after signing with Carolina as a free agent following the 2019 season. He hauled in 53 receptions for 519 yards and five touchdowns last season.If the New Jersey native opts to hang up the cleats for good, the Panthers will likely lean even more on DJ Moore, who has led the team in receiving yards in each of the past three seasons. Terrace Marshall Jr. and Rashard Higgins are among veteran options that would see an increase in playing time.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Wide receiver Tyreek Hill opened up about the circumstances that led to his trade from the Kansas City Chiefs to the Miami Dolphins."There was a lot of times during the year that we felt that Tyreek was underutilized and wasn't fully appreciated and that they really weren't taking full advantage of all his ability and talent," Hill's agent Drew Rosenhaus said on his client's "It Needed To Be Said" podcast.Hill pointed out that inconsistency with targets throughout the season was among multiple factors that contributed to his departure from Kansas City."If teams are gonna give us favorable one-on-one matches against their best corner, I don't see why teams don't utilize their best receiver," Hill said."Tyreek wanted to be there," Rosenhaus added. "Tyreek wanted to be in Kansas City. We tried to do an extension with them."The former fifth-round receiver says he was willing to return to the Chiefs on a deal that averaged $25 million to $26 million in annual salary, but the Chiefs weren't willing to negotiate near those numbers.Hill, a three-time All-Pro, racked up a career-high 111 receptions with 1,239 yards and nine touchdowns in 2021. After the season, Hill informed the team that he would like to remain with the franchise. However, the club was "millions of dollars short" when it came to offering guaranteed money, according to Rosenhaus.Hill was ultimately dealt to Miami in exchange for five draft picks, including a 2022 first-round selection. The six-time Pro Bowl wideout then signed a four-year, $120-million extension with the Dolphins that included $72.2 million in guarantees.The Chiefs opted to move on by signing veterans JuJu Smith-Schuster and Marquez Valdes-Scantling to pair with All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce.Miami, meanwhile, added a versatile weapon in Hill to its passing attack that features Jaylen Waddle and Cedrick Wilson. Hill also offered high praise for his new quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, saying he's more accurate than former teammate Patrick Mahomes."Obviously, like I'm gonna go with 15 (Mahomes) as the strongest arm, but as far as accuracy-wise, I'm going with Tua all day."Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

As the New England Patriots enter a pivotal second season for quarterback Mac Jones, Bill Belichick is still coaching and building a roster in his idiosyncratic style. Belichick's method is to chase perfection in a way rooted more in the pursuit than in the results. But what if the results are now too elusive?Belichick's organizational philosophy has always been about adaptability. More deeply, he created a team-first program ruthlessly devoid of sentimentality while projecting a knowing smugness. The approach played a big part in the Patriots dominating the NFL - a league engineered to create parity - for a solid two decades.Belichick was always capable of staying a step ahead of the league's trends. But the landscape has changed considerably in the three seasons since the Pats last won a Super Bowl, both internally for New England and around the NFL. Now 70, can Belichick keep up?Let's be clear: Belichick is not on any kind of hot seat. He'll be the head coach and general manager in Foxboro for as long as he wants. But his incomparable success has set an incomparable standard, as team owner Robert Kraft articulated to reporters at the league's annual meeting in March. Jamie Squire / Getty Images"I'm a Patriot fan, big time, first," Kraft said. "And more than anything, it bothers me that we haven't been able to win a playoff game in the last three years. And I'm happy that we had, I think, a great draft last year, and it made up for what happened the previous four years or so. I look forward to hopefully having a great draft this year. That's the only way you can build your team long term and consistently to have a chance of winning, is having a good draft."There's a lot to parse there, and it's all aimed at Belichick, even if Kraft never addressed him by name. The Patriots are one of 18 teams without a playoff win in the last three years, and Kraft clearly isn't comfortable associating with such riffraff. It's also no secret that a recent series of poor drafts have affected New England's performance. However, it's nonetheless striking to hear Kraft say that so explicitly. In the same breath, Kraft expressed confidence that Belichick can make things right because that's what he's always done.Of course, quarterback Tom Brady's departure is the elephant in the room here. Brady always personified Belichick's emotionless approach - a coachable, maniacally driven, team-first perfectionist at the sport's most important position. He also might play forever. For 20 years, Brady and Belichick - together - were the common denominators of the Patriots' dynasty. It was always going to end at some point. Still, it's no small irony that Belichick's adherence to his approach - i.e., his refusal to meet Brady's contract demands with the quarterback well past the age of 40 - led to the breakup. Belichick's stance at the time may have been reasonable, but Brady's continued success in Tampa Bay has at least proven that he miscalculated. Kathryn Riley / Getty ImagesNew England's rebuild began in 2020 and gained momentum in 2021, thanks to a strong draft class led by Jones, who flashed at times even if he often wasn't asked to carry the offense. These are indeed positive developments that point toward a potentially bright future. But the obstacles facing Belichick and the Patriots are vastly different from those in previous years.For starters, the AFC is loaded in a way it wasn't before. The Pats built their dynasty years by dominating a division that largely couldn't get out of its own way and bullying a conference filled with few teams that could sustain any real success. New England went an astounding 86-24 against the AFC East from 2001-18, winning the division 16 times. And in that 18-year span, all but two of the AFC's representatives in the Super Bowl were teams quarterbacked by Brady, Peyton Manning, or Ben Roethlisberger.Now the conference is filled with many of the game's best signal-callers: Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, Lamar Jackson, Russell Wilson, Derek Carr, and Matt Ryan. And within the division, the Bills - who just smoked the Patriots in last year's playoffs - are set up to succeed for years to come. Meanwhile, the Dolphins have been particularly aggressive this offseason, and the Jets are amid a potentially promising rebuild.There's also nothing new about other teams poaching Belichick's assistant coaches, scouts, and personnel executives over the years. But the departures since New England's last Super Bowl victory have been especially acute: a total of 10 assistant coaches, plus longtime executives including Nick Caserio and Dave Ziegler, and top scouts such as Monti Ossenfort and DuJuan Daniels. Low-profile research analyst and trusted Belichick wingman Ernie Adams and renowned offensive line coach Dante Scarnecchia also retired. Icon Sportswire / Getty ImagesBelichick has responded to all this by keeping a close circle of assistant coaches. The Patriots won't have an offensive or defensive coordinator in 2022, and the question of who will call the offensive plays remains a mystery. This isn't a new phenomenon, though. Belichick didn't have an offensive coordinator in 2005 after Charlie Weis left, and he didn't have one in 2009 and 2010 when Josh McDaniels spent two years as the Broncos' head coach. New England also didn't employ a defensive coordinator in 2010 and 2011, and no one has held the title since Brian Flores last did in 2018.What's changed is that while Belichick once had a pipeline of young assistants hungry to earn those titles eventually, he's instead brought back failed head coaches like Joe Judge and Matt Patricia. Both appear to have roles working with New England's offense this offseason despite a relative lack of experience there.One year after an uncharacteristic free-agent spending spree, Belichick returned to form by prioritizing the sort of value and depth that's long been his calling card. But the Patriots also reached with their first two picks in the draft, at least according to the draftnik consensus, which is admittedly an inexact standard. Additionally, New England has shaken up its offensive line and seems content relying on a young and inexperienced group of linebackers.The joy for Belichick - as with Brady - has always been in the hunt. In his book "It's Better To Be Feared: The New England Patriots Dynasty and the Pursuit of Greatness," writer Seth Wickersham described Belichick and Brady as "creatures of hope, architects of finding and exploiting the next opportunity." He then added, "It's all Bill Belichick has ever asked for - and for four decades running, all he's ever needed."The challenge might be what drives Belichick, and his current challenge is as daunting as ever.Dom Cosentino is a senior features writer at theScore.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Arizona Cardinals head coach Kliff Kingsbury was among those in attendance for Sean McVay's wedding over the weekend and used it as an opportunity to try to sabotage the Los Angeles Rams.Speaking to reporters Thursday, Kingsbury said he jokingly tried to talk Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald into retiring at McVay's nuptials."I did my best to try and convince Aaron Donald to retire. Obviously, that didn't work," Kingsbury said. "I told him he's accomplished all you can accomplish, I think it's a great idea to go out on your own terms."Kingsbury also jestingly encouraged Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp to hold out."I told Kupp, I was basically like, 'I know you and Sean are friends, but stop taking that McVay discount," Kingsbury said. "Hold out for the first three weeks and get something sorted out. And you can tell that did not work out either."Donald was non-committal about his future after winning Super Bowl LVI in February but came to an agreement on a new deal with the Rams earlier this week, making him the NFL's highest-paid non-quarterback.Kupp, meanwhile, agreed to a three-year extension with L.A. on Wednesday that will reportedly pay him $110 million over the next five years.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Las Vegas Raiders signed wide receiver Hunter Renfrow to a multi-year contract extension, the team announced Friday.Terms of the deal weren't disclosed, but it's reportedly for two years and worth $32 million, sources told Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.Renfrow, who produced the first 1,000-yard season of his career and made the Pro Bowl last campaign, will reportedly receive $21 million guaranteed.

The Indianapolis Colts traded for Matt Ryan hoping he could finally stabilize their quarterback position, and the veteran left a good impression during offseason workouts, says head coach Frank Reich."Matt was unbelievable, did a great job, great command - really, A-Z. He did everything right - just great leadership, great play," Reich said, according to Myles Simmons of Pro Football Talk. "I mean, the whole way he took command, (it was) great collaborating as an offensive staff with him to work in and nuance some of the things we do to suit him and his style."Get to learn a few things about him, pick his brain about some of the … favorite things he did in Atlanta. Let's see if we can incorporate a few of those things and fit with us. So, we got a lot of that done over the last number of weeks."The Colts traded Carson Wentz to the Washington Commanders in early March, just a year after acquiring him from the Philadelphia Eagles for a first-round pick.Indianapolis' gamble paid off when Ryan became available several weeks later, with the AFC South club sending the Atlanta Falcons a third-round pick for the former MVP.Ryan will be hoping the change of scenery can spark a late-career resurgence after a downward trend in recent years.His 3,968 passing yards last season was his lowest mark since 2010, snapping a streak of 10 straight 4,000-yard campaigns. His 20 touchdown passes tied for the second-worst mark of his career, behind only his rookie season (16).Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

While Aaron Rodgers' future with the Green Bay Packers is certain after the reigning MVP signed a three-year extension in March, the same can't be said for third-year quarterback Jordan Love.But Love, whom Green Bay drafted in the first round in 2020 as Rodgers' potential successor, is focused on improving his game rather than speculating over a potential trade."I am human," Love said, according to the Wisconsin State Journal's Jason Wilde. "And that stuff's going to be there, regardless. But I think I do a pretty good job at compartmentalizing it. I don't even want to think about that stuff."I can't control what's going on, I have no idea what might happen. So rather than stressing about things that might happen, things that might not happen, I'm just here right now. I'll take what I'm given and run with it."Rodgers' new contract runs through the 2026 season and pays an NFL-high $50 million annually. Meanwhile, Love has two years remaining on his rookie deal, but Green Bay could gain an extra year of control with his fifth-year option.Despite his record extension, Rodgers continues to acknowledge the end of his NFL career is close.The 38-year-old recently said that he thinks about retirement "all the time." After a year of trade rumors due to a rift with the franchise, he also said he "definitely" wants to retire in Green Bay.As a result, Love's career is left in limbo. The young signal-caller has made just one start and seen a handful of snaps in mop-up duty late in games, but he's struggled during that limited action.With few potential trade destinations at this stage of the offseason and Rodgers' sudden retirement still a possibility after 2022, Love will most likely remain with the Packers for the immediate future."I definitely think I'm maxing out all the reps. Even the reps where I'm like, 'Ah, man. I wish I had done this, I wish I had done that,' I get to go back on film, watch it, and just be able to learn," Love said. "You learn more from your mistakes than from your successes. So to be able to have that time to grow and learn, I think, is huge."What it comes down to is I'm always confident in myself, but it's about being a lot more comfortable, relaxed, and being able to process things a lot faster. And that all ties into it. I definitely feel very confident in myself right now."Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Former Dallas Cowboys head coach and New York Giants offensive coordinator Jason Garrett is joining NBC as an NFL analyst on "Football Night in America," the New York Post's Andrew Marchand reports.Garrett will replace Drew Brees, who recently parted ways with the network after just one year. Brees was part of the "Football Night in America" crew in 2021 and was an analyst during Notre Dame football games, a role Garrett could also take over, Marchand adds.NBC hired Garrett earlier this year as a USFL analyst and teamed him up with play-by-play announcer Jac Collinsworth.Garrett coached the Cowboys in 152 regular-season games from 2010-19. He was named Coach of the Year in 2016 after helping Dallas post a 13-3 record, which remains the club's best campaign since 2007. The 56-year-old began last year with the Giants but was fired midway through the campaign,Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Veteran pass-rusher Jason Pierre-Paul is visiting the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday, a source told NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.Pierre-Paul, 33, spent the last four seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, racking up 33 sacks. The three-time Pro Bowler recorded only 31 tackles and 2.5 sacks last year while battling a shoulder injury that sidelined him for five regular-season games.A first-round pick in 2010, Pierre-Paul began his career with the New York Giants. He amassed 58.5 sacks - including a career-high 16.5 in 2011 - across eight seasons in New York.Baltimore is looking to bolster its pass rush with Tyus Bowser recovering from a torn Achilles and Odafe Oweh having undergone offseason shoulder surgery. It's also unclear when rookie pass-rusher David Ojabo will be cleared to play after he suffered a torn Achilles in March.Bowser led the team with seven sacks last year.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Davante Adams admitted Thursday that quarterback Aaron Rodgers' uncertain future with the Green Bay Packers influenced his decision to join the Las Vegas Raiders this offseason."We've talked multiple times," the wide receiver said, according to James Palmer of NFL Network. "We talked throughout the whole process too, and he was aware of where I stood, and I was aware of where he stood. We had talks just like what he said the other day. He mentioned we had talks about his future and what he thinks his duration in Green Bay or just football, in general, would look like, and that played into my decision, as well."He added: "Because where I am in my career - and this isn't a shot at anybody, any other quarterbacks, in Green Bay, I love Jordan Love especially, he's a great guy - I got aspirations of doing really, really big things and being remembered, and it just wasn't really a point in my career that I was willing to sacrifice Aaron not being there after a year or two."Adams opted not to sign a multi-year extension with the Packers this year, choosing instead to play for the Raiders, who acquired the 29-year-old in a blockbuster trade in March. Las Vegas then gave the All-Pro pass-catcher a five-year contract worth $141 million.Rodgers' future in Green Bay has been a topic of discussion since last offseason. The 38-year-old, who inked a three-year extension that averages $50.2 million annually, recently said he "definitely" wants to retire with the Packers. However, he added that he plans to take a season-by-season approach in evaluating his NFL future.Adams said Rodgers "respected" his decision."He understood that it has a lot to do with where I want to raise my kids, family (and) being closer to home," he added.Adams and Rodgers formed one of the NFL's most productive duos in recent years. The wideout's 238 receptions and 29 touchdown catches since 2020 lead the league.Adams will now catch passes from Derek Carr, reviving a connection that began in college at Fresno State. Carr signed a three-year extension with the Raiders in April.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Rob Gronkowski said in early April that he needed time to consider his future following Tom Brady's dramatic return to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. But more than two months have passed, and the star tight end has yet to make a decision.Even though he hopes his longtime teammate opts for one more ride, Brady said Thursday he knows Gronkowski has to decide for himself whether to continue playing."I think it's just obviously totally up to him, and we'd all obviously love to play with him, but he's got to make the best decision for himself, and he knows that," Brady said, according to Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times. "Anyone who cares about him knows that he's doing what's right for him, which is trying to figure it out."We don't have training camp for about six weeks, so whatever he's got to do to figure it out, and I think we'll be hopeful if he does, and if he doesn't, we still got to go out there and figure out what to do."Gronkowski previously retired at the end of the 2018 season while with the New England Patriots. He sat out the 2019 campaign before unretiring and joining Brady in Tampa via trade.The 33-year-old managed to avoid the injuries that plagued him throughout his career during the 2020 campaign, suiting up for all 16 regular-season games and four postseason contests.But Gronkowski missed seven games in 2021 after suffering multiple rib fractures and a punctured lung in Week 3. He finished the year with 55 catches for 802 yards and six touchdowns.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Denver Broncos' new ownership and Peyton Manning have engaged in talks about an advisory role in the organization, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.Manning could reportedly eventually earn a place in the Walton-Penner ownership group and equity in the franchise if he took the job.The Walton-Penner family entered into a purchase and sale agreement for the Broncos on Tuesday, reportedly paying $4.65 billion - a new U.S sports record - to the Pat Bowlen Trust for the organization.All four of the bidders for the AFC West club contacted Manning to gauge his interest in joining their groups, according to 9News' Mike Klis.The Hall of Fame quarterback's next career path has been subject to consistent speculation ever since he retired following the 2015 season.Aside from teaming up with his brother Eli for "ManningCast" this past season, as well as several other TV projects with ESPN, Manning has appeared reluctant to make any long-term commitments for his non-playing future in the NFL.The former signal-caller apparently turned down multiple offers from various networks to work as a broadcaster since retiring.Manning starred for the Broncos from 2012-15 after the Indianapolis Colts cut him. He won his record fifth MVP award in 2013 and guided Denver to its first Super Bowl title since 1998 in his final campaign.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley said Wednesday he's finally starting to feel like the best version of himself after playing through multiple injuries in recent years."Coming into this camp, focusing on my body, working on my body, doing all the little things necessary to keep my body healthy," Barkley said. "When you've got that, when you can trust your body, your confidence just grows."So, I would say the difference (from college to now) was I was a way more confident player in college and early in my career than I was prior to the last year and then last year. Now I'm starting to get that back, starting to get that swagger back."Barkley took the NFL by storm as a rookie after the Giants drafted him second overall in 2018. The Penn State product led the league with 2,028 scrimmage yards while appearing in all 16 games. He rushed for 1,307 yards (five per carry) and 11 touchdowns to go along with 91 catches for 721 yards and four scores.But the 2018 Offensive Rookie of the Year has struggled to stay healthy since. He missed three games in 2019 with an ankle injury before a torn ACL ended his 2020 campaign in Week 2. Last season, Barkley sat out four games with another ankle ailment."I feel a lot better than I felt at this point last year," said Barkley, who rushed for 593 yards (3.7 per carry) and two touchdowns in 13 appearances in 2021."My body feels strong. Feel like I got my strength back. Feel like I got my speed back. Feel like I can trust my knee again, trust myself to make plays and not think about it."However, the 25-year-old doesn't want to get too excited about his health."You can't get too high on it because it's just minicamp right now," he added. "But all the little stuff in gaining confidence here, in this break that we have, hopefully catapults and pushes me through camp and to the regular season and beyond, hopefully."Barkley is entering the fifth and final year of his rookie contract in 2022.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The lawyer representing the 24 women who've filed civil lawsuits against Deshaun Watson said his law firm will soon add the Houston Texans, among others, as defendants in the lawsuits against the quarterback, according to ESPN's Sarah Barshop."Our team has thoroughly vetted each case. ... These women are the true heroes in this sordid story," Tony Buzbee said in a statement Wednesday. "What has become clear is that the Houston Texans organization and their contracting 'massage therapy company' facilitated Deshaun Watson's conduct."In many of these cases, the Texans provided the opportunity for this conduct to occur. We believe the Texans organization was well aware of Watson's issues but failed to act."On Tuesday, The New York Times' Jenny Vrentas reported that the Texans booked massage appointments with 66 women over a 17-month period. The list of women includes the 24 who've filed lawsuits.Vrentas added that the Texans provided a hotel room for Watson at The Houstonian, where several of the massages took place. Further, Vrentas reported that the Texans' director of security, Brent Naccara, furnished a nondisclosure agreement for Watson, who then gave the agreement to his massage therapists to sign."The Texans also provided massage tables and other support for Watson's proclivities, ostensibly to protect their 'asset,'" Buzbee said. "We intend to make sure all involved in Watson's conduct are held accountable, in addition to, and including, Watson himself."The Texans, who declined to comment on the nondisclosure agreement, have repeatedly said they first found out about the allegations against Watson when the first lawsuit was filed.Watson has been accused in 24 lawsuits and 10 criminal complaints of lewd and coercive behavior while receiving massages from women. The NFL is probing the cases.Those incidents cited in the lawsuits allegedly took place between March 2020 and March 2021. The first lawsuit was filed March 16, 2021.The Cleveland Browns acquired Watson from the Texans in a March trade. Cleveland then immediately gave him a new five-year contract worth $230 million fully guaranteed.The trade took place days after a Texas grand jury declined to indict Watson on criminal charges. A second grand jury also declined to indict him shortly thereafter.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Los Angeles Rams and star wide receiver Cooper Kupp agreed on a three-year extension Wednesday, the team announced.The deal ties Kupp to L.A. for the next five years at $110 million, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.The three-year extension is worth $80 million and includes $75 million guaranteed, which is the highest guarantee ever given to a receiver, Schefter adds.Kupp still had two years left on his contract, but his $15.75-million average annual salary ranked only 19th among wide receivers, according to Spotrac. The new deal now makes the 28-year-old the NFL's sixth-highest-paid wideout at $22 million per year.Kupp is coming off a historic campaign. The 2017 third-round pick led the league in catches (145), yards (1,947), and touchdown receptions (16) en route to winning the Offensive Player of the Year award last season. Kupp also put on a show in the playoffs, earning Super Bowl MVP honors after helping L.A. win Super Bowl LVI.The Eastern Washington product has racked up 5,517 yards and 70 touchdowns on 433 receptions in 71 regular-season games across five seasons with the Rams.The Rams have rewarded some of their biggest stars with lucrative extensions this offseason after claiming their first NFL title in 22 years. Los Angeles gave signal-caller Matthew Stafford a four-year, $160-million contract in March. The team also made defensive lineman Aaron Donald the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history last week.

Find positional rankings, additional analysis, and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.Welcome to theScore Fantasy Football Podcast, hosted by Justin Boone.Find the show on iTunes, Spotify, Google, Stitcher, and Anchor.In this episode, Derek Brown of FantasyPros joins Boone to unveil their must-have players in 2022 fantasy drafts.

Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur says he isn't concerned with the absence of wide receiver Allen Lazard from the team's minicamp."We'd love for him to be here," LaFleur said Wednesday. "Obviously, he's been in our system for a couple years, so I definitely don't have any reservations of him not knowing what to do."Ahead of what will be Lazard's fifth campaign in Green Bay, the 26-year-old wideout has been a no-show at the club's team facility this offseason after receiving a restricted free-agent tender. He isn't subject to fines since he hasn't signed his deal.Lazard set career highs in 2021, recording 40 receptions for 513 yards and eight touchdowns. With Davante Adams now a member of the Las Vegas Raiders, Lazard represents a veteran option in a Packers receiving corps that also features Randall Cobb, Sammy Watkins, and rookie Christian Watson.An undrafted free agent in 2018, Lazard's role has gradually increased within the Packers' offense. The Iowa State product is expected to earn $3.9 million under the one-year tender in 2022, per Over the Cap.Lazard's quarterback, Aaron Rodgers, is excited to see what his pass-catching group can do next season, noting that the Packers have "some production" but a lot of potential at the position. Similar to LaFleur, Rodgers isn't worried about Lazard missing offseason activities."I know he'll be ready when he's here," he said Tuesday."He's been our dirty work guy for most of his career here," Rodgers added. "Now he's getting an opportunity to be a No. 1 receiver."Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Cleveland Browns are excusing quarterback Baker Mayfield from their mandatory minicamp next week, head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed, according to NFL Network's James Palmer.Mayfield, 27, requested a trade from Cleveland amid the team's pursuit of Deshaun Watson. After initially being eliminated from Watson’s final list, the Browns acquired the three-time Pro Bowl passer and signed him to a five-year, $230-million contract.The decision for Mayfield to stay away from the club was mutually agreed upon by both sides, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reports. The signal-caller won't be subject to fines due to his absence being excused by the team.The 2018 first overall selection also missed the Browns' voluntary OTA sessions following his request to be dealt.Attempts to move Mayfield have come up short as the passer enters the final year of his rookie contract. The Carolina Panthers and Seattle Seahawks have been linked to Mayfield. However, Mayfield's $18.8-million salary in 2022 has proved to be a stumbling block, with the Browns unwilling to foot a large enough portion of the salary.Additionally, Mayfield is recovering from offseason shoulder surgery that limited him throughout last season. He tallied career lows in passing yards (3,010) and passing touchdowns (17) in 2021.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Despite outplaying his current deal, Las Vegas Raiders tight end Darren Waller is not concerned about a contract extension."I just focus on enjoying it, whether I'm here for 10 years or who knows how long," Waller said, according to the Las Vegas Journal Review's Ed Graney. "My agent's job is to do that stuff, and I just focus on the football part."The 29-year-old is set to earn $6.25 million in base salary in each of the two years remaining on his current contract. He sits 17th in average salary among tight ends, according to Over the Cap.Waller recorded back-to-back 1,000-yard campaigns in 2019 and 2020 before hauling in 55 receptions for 665 yards and two touchdowns in 11 games last season.While working out a new deal with the Raiders, Waller is concentrating on getting a firm grasp on head coach Josh McDaniels' offense. The versatile pass-catcher is aiming to have a similar impact to that of Rob Gronkowski when McDaniels was the offensive coordinator for the New England Patriots."We watch a lot of tape of Rob Gronkowski running wild from old New England clips," Waller told team reporter Levi Edwards. "So it's exciting to see different ways that I'll be used."The Raiders expect the 2020 Pro Bowl wideout to once again be one of quarterback Derek Carr's favorite targets. Las Vegas bolstered its passing game, acquiring Davante Adams to pair with Hunter Renfrow and Demarcus Robinson.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Pittsburgh Steelers would like to lessen the burden on running back Najee Harris in his second season.The Pro Bowl tailback doesn't expect to replicate his high usage in 2022."We are doing that a lot this year (that) I will not be on the field, I guess, (as much)," Harris said, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review's Chris Adamski. "I will be on the field a lot - but on certain downs, I will not be on the field. Just (pick my spots), I guess. Extra rest."Harris led the league in offensive snaps played (980) and touches (381) as a rookie last season.The 24-year-old exceeded the snap count of Dallas Cowboys' Ezekiel Elliott and Indianapolis Colts' Jonathan Taylor.Harris quickly became a focal point of the Steelers' offense, racking up 307 carries for 1,200 yards and seven touchdowns alongside 74 receptions for 467 yards and 10 total touchdowns.Pittsburgh could also opt to lighten Harris' workload by establishing a reliable second option in the backfield. Benny Snell, Kalen Ballage, and Anthony McFarland are among halfbacks that could help to keep Harris fresh.The Steelers are preparing for their first season following Ben Roethlisberger's retirement. A quarterback competition between Mitch Trubisky, Mason Rudolph, and rookie Kenny Pickett will determine a successor at the position.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Denver Broncos and the Walton-Penner family have entered into a purchase and sale agreement, the team announced Tuesday.The agreement, which is subject to approval from the NFL's finance committee and league ownership, calls for the Walton-Penner family to acquire the franchise from the Pat Bowlen Trust."I have enjoyed getting to know Rob Walton, Carrie Walton Penner and Greg Penner throughout this process," Broncos president Joe Ellis said in a statement. "Learning more about their background and vision for the Denver Broncos, I am confident that their leadership and support will help this team achieve great things on and off the field."Ellis added: "While this purchase and sale agreement is pending approval from the NFL's finance committee and league ownership, today marks a significant step on the path to an exciting new chapter in Broncos history."The sale price is $4.65 billion, which will set a new U.S. sports-franchise record, reports Mike Klis of 9News.Denver is the first NFL franchise to be sold since David Tepper acquired the Carolina Panthers for $2.27 billion in 2018.The Broncos officially went up for sale Feb. 1. Pat Bowlen purchased the franchise in 1984 and helped it win three Super Bowl titles. His family controlled the team after he died in 2019 from complications due to Alzheimer's."We are thrilled to be selected to move forward with the purchase of the Denver Broncos," Rob Walton said in a statement. "Carrie, Greg and I are inspired by the opportunity to steward this great organization in a vibrant community full of opportunity and passionate fans."Walton added, "We look forward to earning the confidence and support of the NFL as we take the next step in this process."At least 24 yes votes from owners are required for the agreement to be approved, according to ESPN.Rob, the son of Walmart founder Sam Walton, served as chairman of the retail company for more than two decades after his father died in 1992. Rob's cousin Ann is married to Los Angeles Rams owner Stan Kroenke, according to Sports Illustrated's Luke Patterson.The Broncos already kicked off a new era this year after acquiring quarterback Russell Wilson in a blockbuster trade with the Seattle Seahawks. Denver general manager George Paton also hired first-year head coach Nathaniel Hackett this year.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Free-agent quarterback Cam Newton believes he doesn't have anyone to blame but himself for his struggles with the Carolina Panthers last season."I signed on Thursday. I played on Sunday," Newton said recently on "The Pivot Podcast," according to ESPN's David Newton. "At what point did you think you was going to be successful? The next week, I started. That's still under 10 days of you being on the team. And you're still trying to learn the offense."So before I sit up here and allow the narrative to be made that Cam ain't got it no more, Cam is taking full responsibility and saying Cam put himself in a f---ed-up situation."Newton reunited with the Panthers - the team that drafted him first overall in 2011 - midway through last season after Sam Darnold was placed on injured reserve. Newton came off the bench in his first game back with Carolina, rushing for a touchdown and tossing a TD in his first two plays.The 2015 NFL MVP then started five games, going 0-5 while passing for four touchdowns against five interceptions. He put up five scores on the ground.Before rejoining the Panthers last year, Newton also failed to meet the expectations while with the New England Patriots in 2020."The New England experience was a f---ed-up situation," he said. "I was still learning the offense seven-to-eight weeks into the season."The 33-year-old won seven of his 15 starts for the Pats. He scored 12 rushing touchdowns - the second-best single-season mark of his career - but threw for only eight touchdowns to 10 picks.The Patriots, who re-signed him after that campaign, eventually decided to roll with Mac Jones under center and released Newton before the regular season began."It was just brain overload," Newton said. "It was times I was going to the line and I'm still thinking. ... Did I know it? Yes. To the degree that I needed to know it to show the world that I'm still Cam Newton? No. But I put myself in that situation."But Newton thinks he still has something left in the tank."If you think I couldn't be on somebody's team right now, you're a damn fool," he said. "There's not 32 guys better than me."Panthers head coach Matt Rhule said in March that he was still open to bringing Newton back this year, though Carolina drafted quarterback Matt Corral in the third round a month later.Newton emerged as one of the NFL's most exciting players soon after entering the league. The Auburn product, who spent the first nine seasons of his career with the Panthers, won the MVP award in 2015 after totaling 45 touchdowns.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

We already have a good notion of what all 32 NFL teams will look like when the regular season begins. And for 12 of those clubs, this year means another chance to capture that elusive first Super Bowl.Here are how the clubs without a Super Bowl title rank based on how close they are to clinching their first trophy.12. Houston Texans Bob Levey / Getty Images Sport / GettySuper Bowl history: Have never advanced past divisional round

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Derek Carr said he would welcome Colin Kaepernick with open arms after the free-agent passer worked out for the club May 25."I don't want to speak for everybody in that kind of sense, I don't want someone mad at me for saying, 'I think it would be great,' but I know him and I would get along great," Carr said Tuesday, according to ESPN's Paul Gutierrez."I know we have in the past, and I think we would again. I think, for the most part, I think he'd get along great with our guys."Kaepernick, who started kneeling during the national anthem to protest police brutality and racial injustice, hasn't appeared in an NFL game since playing for the San Francisco 49ers during the 2016 season.The 34-year-old put on a show soon after entering the league as a second-round pick in 2011. The Nevada product, who owns a 28-30 record as a starter, helped the 49ers reach Super Bowl XLVII in his second pro campaign before falling to the Baltimore Ravens.Kaepernick tossed 72 touchdowns against 30 interceptions to go along with 2,300 yards and 13 scores on the ground across six seasons in San Francisco."I remember our days back then, and just watching him and what he did in college and getting to know him and talking to him on the phone," added Carr, whom the Raiders drafted in 2014. "I've told you guys, I've loved my time with him. I think he's a great guy. He's been great to be around. I've enjoyed being around him, talking with him, competing against him."The Raiders' quarterback depth chart is led by Carr, Jarrett Stidham, and Nick Mullens.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

San Francisco 49ers star left tackle Trent Williams knows that Aaron Donald's new contract with the Los Angeles Rams means more trouble for the rest of the NFC West."I wish he would have retired," Williams told reporters Tuesday when asked about Donald's new deal.Donald, who considered retiring after winning Super Bowl LVI in February, restructured his contract with the Rams on Monday, becoming the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. The All-Pro defensive lineman will reportedly make $95 million over the next three seasons."I mean, he deserves the contract," Williams added. "Obviously, we all know what he can do. I don't know him on a personal level. I like competing against him, brings out the best in all of us."The Rams and 49ers play each other at least twice a year. The two divisional rivals faced off three times last season, with San Francisco winning both regular-season meetings before Los Angeles clinched a close victory in the NFC title game. Donald, who didn't register a sack in those three matchups against the 49ers, sealed the Rams' playoff victory by pressuring quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo into an interception in the contest's final seconds.Donald, a three-time Defensive Player of the Year, has racked up 12.5 sacks in 15 regular-season appearances against San Francisco.The Rams will visit the 49ers in Week 4 this season. San Francisco then travels to Los Angeles in Week 8.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

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 2022 rankings.Half PPR

Aaron Rodgers has no intentions of leaving the Green Bay Packers. Ever.The superstar quarterback said Tuesday he "definitely" plans to finish his career in Green Bay, according to ESPN's Rob Demovsky.Rodgers said he isn't sure when he'll call it a career and plans to take a season-by-season approach in evaluating his future."If you say I'm for sure playing two more, three years and then you have a magical season that ends with a championship and think that that might be the best way to ride off, I don't want to commit to something," Rodgers said. "You say, I'm only playing one more year and you have a bitter taste in your mouth and still got the drive and the passion to play one or two more years - I just don't want to get pigeonholed into it."He added: "I'm focused on this season. I'm never gonna drag it out in the offseason. The conversations I've had with (general manager) Brian (Gutekunst) have been very honest and direct, and that's not going to change. We'll sit down after the season, hopefully after a championship, and figure out what the next step is."The four-time NFL MVP recently acknowledged he thinks about retirement "all the time.""This is my 18th season. Of course you think about the next chapter and what's next in your life all the time. It doesn't mean you're not fully invested," the 38-year-old clarified Tuesday, according to The Athletic's Matt Schneidman.Rodgers, who restructured his contract and signed a three-year extension worth $150 million this offseason, has left his future with Green Bay open-ended multiple times. He considered leaving last offseason due to his disappointment with the front office and skipped mandatory minicamp before returning for training camp.Green Bay's passing attack will have a different look this year. The club traded star wide receiver Davante Adams this offseason before drafting three wideouts, including second-rounder Christian Watson. The Packers also signed veteran Sammy Watkins, adding to a wide receiver depth chart headlined by Allen Lazard and Randall Cobb."The offense has to change," Rodgers said, per Demovsky. "Last year, when you have a guy who's that talented, it's probably not an exaggeration to say that 80% of the plays in the passing game were designed specifically for (Adams), so we're obviously gonna do some things a little different."Rodgers, the reigning back-to-back MVP, has shown no signs of slowing down, but the Packers have piled up disappointing defeats in recent years. Green Bay lost to the San Francisco 49ers in the divisional round in January to fall short of an NFC Championship Game appearance for a third consecutive season.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

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.In an effort to help you find trades that could improve your fantasy team, we present the Dynasty Trade Value Chart.You can use this chart to compare players and build realistic trade offers. Values are based on 12-team PPR leagues.Follow the links below to see the trade values for each position.Dynasty Rankings & Trade Values

Indianapolis Colts linebacker Darius Leonard will miss part of training camp after undergoing back surgery Tuesday, head coach Frank Reich said, according to Mike Chappell of FOX 59.However, the Colts expect the three-time Pro Bowl defender to be ready for the regular season.Reich confirmed that Leonard won't need additional surgery for an ankle injury that bothered him throughout the 2021 season. The former second-round selection wasn't in attendance for the opening day of mandatory minicamp due to his procedure.Leonard tweeted Tuesday that he felt "amazing."

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf is not participating in the first day of mandatory minicamp amid ongoing contract negotiations, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.Metcalf, who is eligible for an extension, is continuing his injury rehab in Los Angeles. The Seahawks consider his absence unexcused, NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reports. Metcalf is currently working back into form after he underwent foot surgery earlier this year.Seattle could fine the wideout. He's entering the final year of his rookie contract, which will pay him $3.9 million in 2022, per Over the Cap.The 2020 Pro Bowler has been the subject of offseason trade speculation since Seattle dealt Russell Wilson to the Denver Broncos.Metcalf's absence comes as a surprise after he previously participated in some of the club's voluntary organized activities.Seattle has insisted it will not trade the superstar receiver despite big names such as Davante Adams, Tyreek Hill, and A.J. Brown landing lucrative long-term deals this offseason.Metcalf sounded optimistic that a deal would be worked out last month. "We're gonna get something done. I think I'm gonna be in Seattle for the next coming years," he said in May.The former second-round pick has posted at least 900 receiving yards in each of his first three seasons in the league. The 24-year-old hauled in 75 receptions for 967 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2021.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Wide receiver Deebo Samuel returned to the field for the first time this offseason for the start of the San Francisco 49ers' mandatory minicamp on Tuesday, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.The star receiver wasn't in uniform but was running on a side field, according to Barrows.Samuel, 26, previously missed voluntary organized team activities after requesting a trade from the club in April.The 2021 Pro Bowl pass-catcher is entering the final year of his rookie contract that's set to pay him $3.9 million in base salary next season, according to Over the Cap.Samuel turned in career highs by hauling in 77 receptions for 1,770 scrimmage yards and 14 total touchdowns last season, along with an impressive 18.2 yards per catch.The Niners reportedly turned down multiple offers to move the first-team All-Pro following his trade demand. The club remained confident that the two sides could repair the relationship and maintained that Samuel wouldn't be dealt.Head coach Kyle Shanahan wouldn't confirm if Samuel changed his mind, but Shanahan remains optimistic about a deal."I don't think the relationship was ever too far away to not get it back to normal and I think we're working on that," he said, per ESPN's Nick Wagoner.Meanwhile, San Francisco reportedly excused quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo from minicamp as he continues to rehab from shoulder surgery and the team seeks trade options.Additionally, two-time Pro Bowl pass-rusher Nick Bosa was in uniform for the first day of minicamp, per Barrows. Bosa, who's eligible for a contract extension, skipped the team's voluntary OTA sessions.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni praised the work quarterback Jalen Hurts has put in to prepare for the 2022 season."I'm noticing a big difference," Sirianni said, according to ESPN's Tim McManus. "What I see is a crisper ball. The accuracy, I've been very pleased with."Hurts has spent parts of the offseason fine-tuning his release and footwork. Alongside increased familiarity with the Eagles' offensive system ahead of his third season with the club, that's led to a quicker drop back and improved timing on his throws."Just being decisive out there on the field, knowing pretty much where I'm going to go with the ball based off the look that they give me. There's a natural maturation there," Hurts said.Hurts led the Eagles to a postseason appearance during his first year as a full-time starter in 2021. He passed for 3,144 yards, 16 touchdowns, and nine interceptions, adding 784 rushing yards and 10 scores on the ground.Philadelphia struggled to find its rhythm in a 31-15 NFC wild-card game loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Hurts threw two interceptions to just one touchdown as the Bucs' defense swarmed him.Hurts tallied a 61.3 completion percentage for an Eagles offense that averaged 200.2 passing yards per contest last season. The team acquired receiver A.J. Brown to co-headline its receiving group with DeVonta Smith.After other key additions to the roster during free agency and the draft, expectations for a productive season now rest on Hurts' shoulders."It's my job to just go out there and play point guard," Hurts said. "Distribute the ball, get the playmakers the ball, and my plays will come."Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

All the rumors about Aaron Donald's future can be laid to rest.The Los Angeles Rams agreed to rework Donald's contract Monday, giving the star defensive lineman $95 million over the next three seasons, a $40-million raise from his previous pact, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.Donald will receive $65 million guaranteed over the next two years. He'll have the option to retire after the 2023 season or return to the team in 2024 for an additional $30 million guaranteed, according to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk.The deal also includes a no-trade clause, reports ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.Donald is now the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, topping Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill, who inked a four-year contract averaging $30 million annually this offseason."It's a big deal and he's earned it," Rams head coach Sean McVay told SiriusXM NFL Radio. "He truly is one of one, in my opinion. Means so much to me, to our organization. I think the respect that he's garnered around this league from guys that have done it at such a high level, what he's accomplished through his eight years is unparalleled."The 31-year-old Donald left his future open-ended after helping the Rams win Super Bowl LVI in February. He said last week he'd only return to L.A. under a new contract.Donald boasts a Hall of Fame-caliber resume that includes three Defensive Player of the Year awards, eight Pro Bowls, and seven first-team All-Pro nods.The Pitt product has racked up 441 tackles, 98 sacks, and 23 forced fumbles across 127 regular-season appearances since the Rams selected him 13th overall in 2014.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The San Francisco 49ers are excusing quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo from the team's upcoming mandatory minicamp, NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reports, citing league sources.Garoppolo has been rehabbing away from team facilities after undergoing shoulder surgery following the 2021 season. The NFC West club continues to explore trade options for the veteran passer ahead of training camp.Head coach Kyle Shanahan said he expects the Niners will still deal Garoppolo this offseason but explained it's "not a guarantee." The club has expressed that it's unlikely to release Garoppolo.Garoppolo was expected to be dealt over the course of the offseason but has seen his market dry up after undergoing surgery. The Niners would save $25.5 million in cap space if they were to move on from Garoppolo before their 2022 campaign, per Over the Cap.If Garoppolo remains with the club, he would count for $26.9 million against the salary cap.The veteran signal-caller led San Francisco to a 9-6 record last season. He threw for 3,810 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions with a 68.3% completion rate.Garoppolo isn't expected to be cleared to resume throwing at full strength until near the beginning of training camp.Second-year passer Trey Lance is expected to assume the starting role for San Francisco next season.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Tight end Dalton Schultz informed the Dallas Cowboys he won't attend the rest of the club's voluntary OTA sessions due to frustration over contract extension negotiations, sources told NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.The Cowboys placed the franchise tag on Schultz in March. He signed his franchise tender, which will guarantee his salary of $10.9 million for the 2022 season if he doesn't land a long-term deal with Dallas.Schultz has become a reliable option in the Cowboys' passing attack after racking up 63 catches for 613 yards and four touchdowns in 2020. He posted career bests of 78 receptions for 808 yards and eight touchdowns as he emerged as Dallas' No. 1 TE last season.Schultz was among three tight ends to receive the franchise tag this offseason, joining the Cleveland Browns' David Njoku and Mike Gesicki of the Miami Dolphins. Njoku recently signed a new four-year, $56.75-million deal.It's currently unclear if Schultz plans to participate in the Cowboys' mandatory minicamp from June 14-16. The pass-catcher would be subject to a fine if he chose to skip the three-day session.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

After doubling most of his stats in his second year with the Indianapolis Colts, Michael Pittman Jr. is aiming higher in 2022."I'm just trying to take the next step," Pittman said, according to Joel A. Erickson of The Indianapolis Star. "Last year, I said that I was going to double every single category, and I did that. This year, I'm trying to build on that and become that definite receiver No. 1 that everybody talks about."Last season, Pittman led the Colts with 88 receptions for 1,082 yards and six touchdowns. His output was more than double his rookie totals when he produced 40 receptions for 503 yards and one score in 2020.The former second-round pick displayed his playmaking ability within a Colts offense that leaned on its rushing attack in 2021. With Indy being led by Jonathan Taylor, the passing attack took a backseat toward the end of the season.Pittman enters his third year in the league as the Colts' most established wideout among a group that features Parris Campbell and rookie Alec Pierce."I'm only going into Year 3 now, but I'm the elder," Pittman said.The 24-year-old is expected to be a preferred target for quarterback Matt Ryan, who was brought in to replace Carson Wentz this offseason.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch recently detailed why he turned down a lucrative offer from Amazon for a broadcasting job after the 2021 season."I think the moment for me, after we lost the NFC Championship Game, (coach) Kyle (Shanahan) asked me to address the team, and that's when the clarity really came to me," Lynch said, according to David Lombardi of The Athletic. "I wasn't gonna address it until after the season. But I looked at myself, and I said, 'How do I sit up here and address these guys and talk about having the fortitude to fight through the pain of losing a game like this and then turn around and bolt on them?'"I couldn't do it. I knew right then what I was gonna do. And I'm happy to be a part of the Niners."Andrew Marchand of the New York Post reported in February - weeks after San Francisco's 20-17 playoff loss to the Los Angeles Rams - that Amazon offered Lynch approximately three times more than his roughly $5-million salary with the 49ers to join its broadcasting team.Lynch briefly addressed his decision to remain with the club during a press conference in March, saying the "opportunity to compete" spoke louder.The 50-year-old worked as an NFL analyst for Fox before joining the 49ers in 2017. San Francisco reached Super Bowl LIV during Lynch's third season on the job but fell against the Kansas City Chiefs.Lynch is signed with the 49ers through the 2024 season after inking a multi-year extension in 2020.Amazon will take over Thursday Night Football this season and is reportedly paying the NFL $1 billion annually through the 2033 campaign for broadcast rights. The company announced Al Michaels and Kirk Herbstreit as its broadcast duo in March.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Quarterback Mac Jones' emergence as a leader is being noticed by his teammates on the New England Patriots."It's just at another level now," wide receiver Kendrick Bourne said, according to ESPN's Mike Reiss. "He's more comfortable, more confident. He knows what's going on, and the muscle memory is there (from having gone through it) - OTAs, then camp, and the season."Going into his second year after having a year like that, it's going to be a challenge, but he's a guy that likes challenges, like all of us in that Patriot building."The 2021 Pro Bowl passer is in the running to be named a captain next season - a rarity for second-year players under head coach Bill Belichick.Jones was named the Patriots' starter to begin the year and led the club to a 10-7 record. He threw for 3,801 yards, 22 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions while owning a 67.6% completion rate.The 2021 first-round pick led New England to a postseason berth, but his club was dispatched by AFC East rivals the Buffalo Bills in the wild-card game.The Alabama product has undergone a transformation since the conclusion of his rookie campaign, focusing on his diet and getting in the weight room ahead of his 2022 season."He's a young guy but he's developed as a leader. That's what this team needs," said wideout DeVante Parker.Meanwhile, it remains unclear who will be calling plays on offense following the departure of former offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. Joe Judge, Matt Patricia, and Belichick have rotated the play-calling duties during OTAs.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts is working to improve on the mental aspects of his game ahead of his sophomore campaign in the NFL."Mentally, I'm trying to get better," Pitts told reporters following the team's sixth OTA session. "There's always room for improvement. Physically, I'm trying to get bigger, stronger, faster."Just the mental side, that kind of helps you play faster, you know what you're doing, you know what the defense is doing, just be able to be the best player you are."Pitts believes increasing his mental understanding of the game will allow him to evolve as a blocker and help him learn to be a leader.The 21-year-old pass-catcher exceeded all expectations after the Falcons drafted him fourth overall in 2021 - making him the highest-drafted tight end in league history. The Florida alum led the team with 1,026 yards and averaged 15.1 yards per catch to go along with one touchdown.Pitts broke the clubs' single-season rookie receiving record and eclipsed Tony Gonzalez's mark for yards by a Falcons tight end in one season.Pitts enters the 2022 campaign as a focal point of Atlanta's offense following the suspension to receiver Calvin Ridley and the departure of quarterback Matt Ryan.The team selected Drake London with the 2022 first-round pick and added veteran wideout Bryan Edwards in the offseason.Pitts is expected to be the top target for quarterback Marcus Mariota or Desmond Ridder.Copyright © 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.