The Chicago Bears will give rookie quarterback Justin Fields some snaps with their offensive starters in the second preseason game after his impressive debut."I think that's real, I think you need to look into that and you need to be able to see … what he does versus the first-team defense," head coach Matt Nagy said Monday.Fields, whom the Bears drafted 11th overall, went 14-for-20 for 142 yards and a touchdown in his first dose of professional action, adding five rushes for 33 yards and a score. He worked against Miami Dolphins backups, though.The Ohio State product is due to see extended time again in the second exhibition tilt, though Nagy warned against reading too much into his preseason performance."There's zero scheming that's going on right now in these preseason games. Zero," Nagy said. "There's not a lot of tape watched, there's plays called to see if people can win one-on-one."The fourth-year head coach added that the quarterback competition between Fields and veteran Andy Dalton is closed, with the latter firmly atop the depth chart. Dalton went 2-for-4 for 18 yards against the Dolphins in his two series."Andy had six plays," Nagy said. "It's hard to say much good or bad about that with the six plays. We're going to get him some more snaps this coming preseason game."Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Aaron Rodgers went into 2020 training camp thinking it would be his final one with the Green Bay Packers, he revealed to NBC Sports' Peter King."Last year at this time, I was looking at the season as my last year in Green Bay," the nine-time Pro Bowl quarterback said.Rodgers reported to 2021 camp after a contentious offseason. He admitted upon arrival he contemplated retiring to avoid another season with the Packers given his differences with management.But the 37-year-old has been all smiles at camp as he prepares for a 17th season in Green Bay, surpassing Bart Starr and Brett Favre for the most in club history."Last year, I need to look at the year that way for perspective," Rodgers said. "Just to enjoy all the little things that I've been able to be a part of over the last 15-plus years at the time. Helped me have a great season, mentally, quality-of-life-wise, happiness-wise. And I had so much fun."I think because of that experience, I got a template for how to have the right perspective on things this year. For me, it really starts with gratitude. I'm not bitter about anything. I might not agree with some of the decisions that are made or the way things have been carried out. I have a ton of gratitude for this city, and the organization, the opportunities I've been given here. That's what I choose to focus on - the things that I do have. That's a lot of great relationships in the building, an incredible fan base that comes out and watches us every day in training camp. It's been 16-plus really special years."The future, who knows what's going to happen? Right now I'm focusing on how special this moment is and this opportunity is."Rodgers is expected to have some say in where he plays in 2022, whether it be Green Bay or elsewhere. Until then, he's focused on getting the Packers to another Super Bowl. Green Bay has reached the last two conference title games, falling to the San Francisco 49ers two years ago and coming up short against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last season.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst shot down the possibility of bringing back Clay Matthews after numerous players on the team lobbied for his return.Aaron Rodgers shared a picture of the former Packers linebacker on Instagram on Saturday, accompanying it with the caption, "Bring him back." Randall Cobb and David Bakhtiari also shared photos of Matthews.But Gutekunst said Sunday the front office has "had no discussions about that," according to ESPN's Rob Demovsky.Rodgers' pull has already led to one former teammate rejoining Green Bay; the Packers reacquired Cobb from the Houston Texans this offseason to mend their relationship with the reigning league MVP.Matthews was a fan favorite during his 10-year tenure with Green Bay. The six-time Pro Bowler recorded at least 10 sacks in four of his first six seasons before his production started to tail off, leading to his departure after the 2018 campaign. He spent 2019 with the Los Angeles Rams but was cut after one season. The 35-year-old didn't appear in the NFL in 2020.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love shouldn't be out for long after injuring his shoulder Saturday against the Houston Texans."He's doing fine," head coach Matt LaFleur said Sunday, according to team reporter Wes Hodkiewicz. "It's something that is significant enough where he could miss a couple days of practice. We're going to take it day-to-day."An MRI on Love's shoulder reportedly came back clean Sunday, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. However, LaFleur noted the quarterback could miss the team's next preseason contest against the New York Jets, per Hodkiewicz.Love didn't play in the second half of Saturday's preseason game after he got "dinged" on a strip sack, LaFleur said following the contest, according to ESPN's Rob Demovsky.Saturday night's bout against the Texans was Love's first NFL action. The 2020 first-rounder completed 12 of 17 passes for 122 yards. He also threw a touchdown to Kylin Hill, who took a screen pass 22 yards into the end zone.Aaron Rodgers credited Love for his showing, saying he thought the young passer did "a really nice job."Love was slated to receive a heavy exhibition workload, as Rodgers is likely to sit the entire preseason. Kurt Benkert is the only other quarterback on the roster.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Washington Football Team released running back Lamar Miller Sunday morning, the club announced Sunday.In addition to Miller, Washington also cut receiver Kelvin Harmon and activated wideout Curtis Samuel off the physically unable to perform list.Miller hasn't recorded a rushing attempt since his Pro Bowl season with the Houston Texans in 2018. He missed the 2019 campaign with a torn ACL and only appeared in one game with the Chicago Bears in 2020 during Week 10, catching two passes for six yards.Washington signed the 30-year-old off the Bears' practice squad in December 2020, and he later agreed to stay with the team on a one-year deal in March 2021.Miller was productive for the Miami Dolphins and Texans prior to his ACL tear. He rushed for 800-plus yards in six straight seasons between 2012 and 2018 and eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark in two of those campaigns.Washington's running back depth remains strong following Miller's departure. Antonio Gibson and J.D. McKissic are projected to handle the majority of the team's backfield duties this coming season, with Peyton Barber likely also contributing.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence admitted to some jitters early on in his NFL preseason debut Sunday against the Cleveland Browns."The first play you're a little bit, especially first game here in the NFL, you're a little bit nervous; but after that, you're just playing ball," Lawrence said after Jacksonville's 23-13 loss, according to ESPN's Michael DiRocco. "Definitely felt that (comfort) setting in."The 2021 first overall pick fumbled the ball after being sacked on his first play Sunday. However, he finished 6-for-9 passing for 71 yards during two first-half possessions."I feel like the first time out there, I felt comfortable, felt poised," Lawrence said. "Obviously, the first play's not kind of what you want for the first play, but after that, I thought we did a good job."Lawrence also went 3-for-4 on throws in tight windows, which equaled the best completion percentage in tight windows by a Jaguars quarterback in 2020.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Dallas Cowboys received good news about Dak Prescott's injured shoulder.Prescott remains on track to play in the season opener Sept. 9 after his second MRI revealed his shoulder strain is healing, the Cowboys announced Saturday.It remains unclear whether the quarterback will play in the Cowboys' next preseason game.Prescott has been working his way back since leaving practice July 28. He had no issues during a throwing session prior to Friday's preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals and has participated in light passing drills over the last week.The 28-year-old said Wednesday that he planned to participate in the Aug. 21 exhibition contest against the Houston Texans. However, the Cowboys have stressed caution.Prescott has been adamant throughout the process that he could play if it were the regular season. The Cowboys open their campaign against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton provided a positive update on Michael Thomas after the injured wideout joined the team ahead of Saturday's preseason game."It's good to have him back," Payton said, according to ESPN's Mike Triplett. "A lot of his rehab has been in Philadelphia with his ankle specialist. He had a recheck last week, he's ahead of schedule. He's gonna be a big part of what we do, and hopefully the sooner, the better with his recovery."Thomas, who is reportedly expected to miss the first month of the season after undergoing ankle surgery in June, sported a walking boot during the Saints' exhibition game against the Baltimore Ravens.

Veteran Jason Peters agreed to terms with the Chicago Bears, his agency announced.Chicago will give the former Philadelphia Eagles offensive tackle a one-year contract, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reports. Peters, 39, will be reunited with his former offensive line coach Juan Castillo, which was a major factor in his signing.The nine-time Pro Bowler spent the last 12 years with the Eagles and was a mainstay at left tackle during his tenure. He started 148 games in Philadelphia and was part of the 2017 Super Bowl team, though he was on injured reserve when the game was played.Peters began his career with the Buffalo Bills as an undrafted free agent in 2004. He enjoyed a five-year stay in Buffalo before heading to Philadelphia before the 2009 season.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Neville Gallimore will be out four-to-six weeks with a dislocated elbow, a source told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Gallimore exited the Cowboys' preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals on Friday with the injury. An MRI confirmed there's minimal structural damage.The Canadian contributed 28 tackles for Dallas in 2020 and 0.5 sacks. He's in his second year after being drafted out of Oklahoma.The Cowboys fell to the Cardinals 19-16 and are now 0-2 during the preseason.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Warning: Story contains graphic content about sexual misconduct.Ashley Solis and Lauren Baxley, two massage therapists who are suing Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson, are questioning some of the tactics NFL investigators are using during their interviews with them regarding Watson, according to Sports Illustrated's Jenny Vrentas."This woman asked me what I was wearing, which honestly really pissed me off," said Solis, who was the first of the 22 women to file a lawsuit against Watson. "She explained that that's something that she has to ask - which I don't believe at all."In her lawsuit, Solis states multiple sexual misconduct acts made by Watson, including putting his penis on her hand, according to ESPN."I'm not sure what I'm supposed to be wearing that would suggest that I don't want you to put your penis on my hand," Solis added. "Do I need to wear a turtleneck?"Additionally, Solis said the investigators' methods left her worried her words "were going to be used against me."Baxley said the NFL investigators also asked about what she was wearing during her appointment with Watson in June 2020. The massage therapist added the investigators' tone during the interview was "patronizing" and "victim-blaming."Former prosecutors Lisa Friel and Jennifer Gaffney were the NFL investigators who talked to Solis, Baxley, and eight other women suing Watson. Watson's attorney, Rusty Hardin, has denied the charges on behalf of his client.A total of 10 women filed complaints against Watson to Houston police in July. Eight of the complainants are among those suing the quarterback.The NFL cleared Watson to join the Texans' training camp in late July, adding the investigations against the passer remain active. The 25-year-old, who's requested a trade from Houston, has been present at practice, but the team is limiting his participation.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Get ready for your season with theScore's 2021 Fantasy Football Draft Kit 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 has finished among the top seven each of the last seven years.Follow the links below to see his updated 2021 rankings.Half PPR

The Jacksonville Jaguars agreed to trade linebacker Joe Schobert to the Pittsburgh Steelers, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.Pittsburgh will send a sixth-round pick to Jacksonville in exchange for the veteran defender, a source told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.Schobert confirmed a trade between the two teams is in the works."Great place to play behind that D line," Schobert said of Pittsburgh, according to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.The 27-year-old joined the Jaguars as a free agent last offseason on a five-year, $53.75-million deal after spending his first four NFL campaigns with the Cleveland Browns.

Get ready for your season with theScore's 2021 Fantasy Football Draft Kit 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, Stitcher, and Anchor.In this episode, Chris Raybon of The Action Network joins Boone to discuss how to approach tight ends in this year's fantasy drafts.

The San Francisco 49ers have made it clear throughout the offseason that Jimmy Garoppolo is their starting quarterback. However, Trey Lance is doing all he can to change that.General manager John Lynch told the "Murph & Mac" show that player personnel decisions aren't up to him, but he's been impressed with the rookie passer so far."That's up to Kyle (Shanahan). That's up to our head coach," Lynch said Friday, according to Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk. "He makes the decisions on who's playing and whatnot. But I think it's Jimmy's right now and Trey's pushing. I think that’s where it's at."Lynch added: "(Lance has) been awesome. He's been everything we thought he would be and more. He was good from day one when he walked in here in the offseason, and I think a testament to what we thought he was and his work ethic."Garoppolo has also looked solid since the 49ers drafted Lance with the third overall pick in this year's draft. Lynch previously noted that the veteran quarterback was "playing his best football" in training camp.Despite sticking with Garoppolo for the time being, San Francisco plans to play the North Dakota State product at times this season.Lance is slated to make his preseason debut Saturday against the Kansas City Chiefs.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Free-agent running back Dion Lewis is retiring from the NFL after a 10-year career despite generating recent interest from teams, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter.Lewis played for the New York Giants last season but is best known for his three-year stint with the New England Patriots (2015-17), with whom he won Super Bowl LI.Despite his modest 5-foot-8 frame, Lewis often posed matchup problems for defenses thanks to his elusiveness and versatility. In 2017, he became the first player in the Super Bowl era to score a rushing, receiving, and kickoff return touchdown in one playoff game, accomplishing the feat versus the Houston Texans.Lewis began his career in 2011, joining the Philadelphia Eagles as a fifth-round draft pick. The Pitt product suffered numerous injuries early in his career, but he played 16 games in each of his final four campaigns.Along with the Eagles, Patriots, and Giants, Lewis spent time with the Cleveland Browns, Indianapolis Colts, and Tennessee Titans.Lewis left the Patriots in 2018 to sign a four-year, $20-million contract with the Titans in free agency. He exclaimed later that year after helping the Titans thrash the Patriots, "That's what happens when you go cheap. You get your ass kicked." He eventually lost playing time to emerging phenom Derrick Henry.The 30-year-old will ride off into the sunset with 2,425 career yards and 13 rushing touchdowns. He also racked up 1,408 yards and eight receiving scores.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Arizona Cardinals apparently ghosted Patrick Peterson during free agency before the veteran cornerback signed with the Minnesota Vikings.Peterson said Cardinals general manager Steve Keim told him after last season that Arizona would "do everything to get you back" for at least another year, according to The Athletic's Dan Pompei.But Peterson said the team was silent on re-signing him once free agency officially opened."I was just frustrated and upset at how upper management handled the situation," Peterson said. "You tell me one thing, then when it's time to talk, you turn your shoulder on me like it's cold shoulder. I've been in this league a long time. Thirty years old. Grown man. Talk to me like a grown man, not like a child or your side piece."Peterson, who played his first 10 NFL campaigns with Arizona, subsequently agreed to join the Vikings on a one-year, $8-million deal.The 31-year-old said he only heard from Keim after agreeing to a deal with Minnesota."He had the nerve to text me, talking about how I love you, wish you nothing but the best," Peterson said. "Now your phone work all of a sudden. I found that as the ultimate disrespect right there."Peterson is coming off an inconsistent campaign that saw him rack up 61 tackles, three interceptions, and eight pass breakups through 16 appearances. Opposing quarterbacks posted a 98.2 passer rating when targeting Peterson last season.The eight-time Pro Bowler said in May the Vikings' matchup against the Cardinals is the one game he's circled on his calendar ahead of the 2021 season.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay doesn't want to rush Carson Wentz's recovery following foot surgery, but he knows how he wants his quarterback to look once Wentz returns to the field."I told him, 'I want you at 100%,'" Irsay said, according to Stephen Holder of The Athletic, adding, "We want to see him healthy in two months, in two years, four years. ... You just want to see him ready when he comes back. If it's Seattle, so be it."The Colts open their 2021 season against the Seattle Seahawks on Sept. 12, but Indianapolis doesn't know if Wentz will be under center in Week 1. The 28-year-old, who joined the team via a trade from the Philadelphia Eagles this offseason, underwent foot surgery in early August, and his initial return timetable was five-to-12 weeks.Wentz is reportedly trending toward being available in Week 1.Soon after Wentz's injury, the Colts were linked to several veteran signal-callers as potential trade targets. Although Irsay isn't ruling out any options, he said it's more likely that Indianapolis will call on one of its current passers - Jacob Eason or rookie Sam Ehlinger - if Wentz misses time."I have a comfort level," Irsay said of his quarterback situation. "That's why (head coach) Frank (Reich) is there. No one knows better than him."He added, "I think right now there's probably a good chance we go (with the young QBs). ... But we always keep our options open."Eason and Ehlinger split first-team snaps this week at practice, but the former is expected to start the Colts' preseason game versus the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Even though the Los Angeles Chargers have had a game removed from their preseason schedule, they're still taking a cautious approach with their star talent.New coach Brandon Staley confirmed on Thursday that quarterback Justin Herbert and safety Derwin James are among many Chargers players that won’t play in the preseason, according to Los Angeles Times' Jeff Miller."Our practices are going to be a lot more like games than these preseason games," Staley said. "The environment that we create on our practice field is where the real action is in the preseason."Running back Austin Ekeler, center Corey Linsley, right tackle Bryan Bulaga, defensive tackle Linval Joseph, and tight end Jared Cook will also not suit up for exhibition matches, according to Sports Illustrated's Fernando Ramirez.The first-year bench boss is aiming to have his squad fresh and healthy for its Week 1 matchup against the Washington Football Team.James is attempting to recapture his top form after exploding onto the scene during his rookie year, stacking up 105 tackles, four tackles for loss, and three interceptions. The 25-year-old has struggled to stay healthy in each of his past two campaigns.Herbert, the reigning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, is trying to elevate his game to another level after an impressive debut. The Oregon product led Los Angeles to a 6-9 record as a starter, racking up 4,336 yards, 10 interceptions, and completing 66% of his pass attempts.While Staley is taking a cautious approach with most of his veterans, the coach stated the team plans to feature all of its rookies - including first-round selection Rashawn Slater - during the preseason.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

After ripping off an 11-2 record in our NFL preseason bets in 2019, we're already off to a 1-0 start this year after a low-scoring Hall of Fame Game. Using the tips from our preseason betting guide, here are my favorite plays in the first full week of exhibition football:Saints @ Ravens (-2.5, 36)

Get ready for your season with theScore's 2021 Fantasy Football Draft Kit and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.theScore staff took part in a 10-team, 12-round mock draft to offer some insight on what to watch for in each round.This is a half PPR (point per reception) scoring league with the following roster spots: QB, RB, RB, WR, WR, WR, TE, FLEX, BN, BN, BN, BN. We omitted defenders and kickers, as they're normally selected in the final two rounds.Draft participants: Chris Scaglione, Gino Bottero, Justin Boone, Taylor Rohaly, Ian Dalley, Caitlyn Holroyd, Alex Chippin, Daniel Valente, Matt Washington, Mike Dickson.Round 1PICKPLAYERTEAM1Christian McCaffrey (RB1)Scaglione2Dalvin Cook (RB2)Bottero3Alvin Kamara (RB3)Boone4Derrick Henry (RB4)Rohaly5Ezekiel Elliott (RB5)Dalley6Saquon Barkley (RB6)Holroyd7Nick Chubb (RB7)Chippin8Jonathan Taylor (RB8)Valente9Tyreek Hill (WR1)Washington10Aaron Jones (RB9)DicksonRound 1: Another mock draft and another running back-heavy first round. With the scoring set to half PPR, it's hard to argue against managers opting to secure an RB1 in the opening frame. However, we'll be watching Saquon Barkley and Jonathan Taylor closely to see if they'll be confident plays early in the season - Barkley is continuing to work his way back from a torn ACL, and Taylor is dealing with uncertain injury situations around him (Carson Wentz and multiple Colts' offensive linemen). I feel much better about drafting them in the second round, where they often fall.Round 2PICKPLAYERTEAM11Travis Kelce (TE1)Dickson12Antonio Gibson (RB10)Washington13Davante Adams (WR2)Valente14J.K. Dobbins (RB11)Chippin15Stefon Diggs (WR3)Holroyd16Joe Mixon (RB12)Dalley17D.K. Metcalf (WR4)Rohaly18Austin Ekeler (RB13)Boone19DeAndre Hopkins (WR5)Bottero20Darren Waller (TE2)ScaglioneRound 2: Tight ends booked this round, with Travis Kelce and Darren Waller filling managers' desires to lock in an elite tight end. Both players averaged top-10 fantasy numbers when put up against the receiver position last year, so their value in your starting lineup can't be understated and will be difficult for other teams in your league to match.With Aaron Rodgers back in Green Bay, the ADPs of Aaron Jones and Davante Adams haven't completely rebounded yet. Both players should have gone three to four spots higher in this mock.Round 3PICKPLAYERTEAM21Najee Harris (RB14)Scaglione22A.J. Brown (WR6)Bottero23Calvin Ridley (WR7)Boone24Josh Jacobs (RB15)Rohaly25Justin Jefferson (WR8)Dalley26Clyde Edwards-Helaire (RB16)Holroyd27George Kittle (TE3)Chippin28Terry McLaurin (WR9)Valente29David Montgomery (RB17)Washington30Keenan Allen (WR10)DicksonRound 3: If you're looking for justification to support focusing on running backs or grabbing an elite tight end early, just take a look at the receiver talent available in this round. Calvin Ridley, Justin Jefferson, A.J. Brown, Keenan Allen, and Terry McLaurin are surefire WR1s with the potential to go nuclear in 2021 (assuming Jefferson avoids any setbacks with his shoulder injury). You can't say the same about the runners taken in this round or even George Kittle, who is likely to be a solid pick but also has more target competition to deal with this year.Round 4PICKPLAYERTEAM31D'Andre Swift (RB18)Dickson32CeeDee Lamb (WR11)Washington33Chris Carson (RB19)Valente34Julio Jones (WR12)Chippin35Allen Robinson II (WR13)Holroyd36Mike Evans (WR14)Dalley37Chris Godwin (WR15)Rohaly38Robert Woods (WR16)Boone39Miles Sanders (RB20)Bottero40Amari Cooper (WR17)ScaglioneRound 4: The run on top-end receivers continues, led by the king of offseason practice highlights and soon-to-be fantasy superstar CeeDee Lamb. While Lamb sadly didn't make it back to me, Robert Woods was an excellent consolation prize to slide in as my WR2. You can read all about my love of Woods and the Rams' offense in my players who will lead you to a fantasy title in 2021 article.If you're looking for a running back in this range, Chris Carson is my favorite of the bunch as the unquestioned starter in a Seattle attack that appears to be on the verge of increasing its pace of play, which means more volume for everyone. Carson is also featured in that league-winners column.Round 5PICKPLAYERTEAM41Cooper Kupp (WR18)Scaglione42Patrick Mahomes II (QB1)Bottero43Darrell Henderson (RB21)Boone44T.J. Hockenson (TE4)Rohaly45D.J. Moore (WR19)Dalley46Myles Gaskin (RB22)Holroyd47Adam Thielen (WR20)Chippin48Kyle Pitts (TE5)Valente49Kyler Murray (QB2)Washington50James Robinson (RB23)DicksonRound 5: There are very few guarantees that come with players at this point, which is why a couple of teams elected to go with a quarterback. Though it's too early for my liking, Patrick Mahomes and Kyler Murray aren't bad picks in this area of the draft.James Robinson was by far the riskiest pick in this round, but perhaps our resident Jaguars fan Mike Dickson knows something about last year's breakout star that the rest of us don't. Beat writers have hinted at a likely timeshare between Robinson and first-round pick Travis Etienne, which could make both players productive while limiting their ceilings. I'd rather bet on Etienne or rookie Javonte Williams eventually working their way into lead-back roles as the season goes along.Round 6PICKPLAYERTEAM51Tyler Lockett (WR21)Dickson52Javonte Williams (RB24)Washington53Travis Etienne (RB25)Valente54Jerry Jeudy (WR22)Chippin55Mark Andrews (TE6)Holroyd56Josh Allen (QB3)Dalley57Kareem Hunt (RB26)Rohaly58Brandon Aiyuk (WR23)Boone59Mike Davis (RB27)Bottero60Dak Prescott (QB4)ScaglioneRound 6: As predicted, Etienne and Williams go off the board almost immediately after Robinson and offer higher upside.Receivers remain the most intriguing position in the sixth round, with breakout candidates like Brandon Aiyuk and Jerry Jeudy, as well as back-to-back 1,000-yard veteran Tyler Lockett, being drafted. Landing Aiyuk as my third receiver gives me a shot at catching the next ascending star without a major investment. Even if he doesn't work out, proven wideouts like Ridley and Woods will keep my receiving corps stable.Round 7PICKPLAYERTEAM61Diontae Johnson (WR24)Scaglione62Chase Claypool (WR25)Bottero63Lamar Jackson (QB5)Boone64Ja'Marr Chase (WR26)Rohaly65Kenny Golladay (WR27)Dalley66Chase Edmonds (RB28)Holroyd67JuJu Smith-Schuster (WR28)Chippin68Russell Wilson (QB6)Valente69Odell Beckham Jr. (WR29)Washington70Michael Thomas (WR30)DicksonRound 7: While the move in recent years has been to wait on a quarterback, I've found myself paying up for one of the top-five fantasy QBs this season - if they fall a round or two. In this instance, Lamar Jackson slipped to the seventh round. With three running backs and three receivers already filling out my roster, the opportunity to get a player with QB1 overall in his range of outcomes was too hard to pass up. Remember, Jackson is just one season removed from leading all fantasy passers while averaging 28.11 points per game.Round 8PICKPLAYERTEAM71D.J. Chark Jr. (WR31)Dickson72Deebo Samuel (WR32)Washington73Tee Higgins (WR33)Valente74Aaron Rodgers (QB7)Chippin75Justin Herbert (QB8)Holroyd76Damien Harris (RB29)Dalley77Zack Moss (RB30)Rohaly78Laviska Shenault Jr. (WR34)Boone79Courtland Sutton (WR35)Bottero80Leonard Fournette (RB31)ScaglioneRound 8: While the running backs in the last couple of rounds all come with fairly significant flaws, many of the receivers have a clearer path to big-time fantasy numbers in 2021. Players like Diontae Johnson, Chase Claypool, JuJu Smith-Schuster, and Tee Higgins all finished inside the top-30 fantasy wideouts last year and could easily accomplish that feat again. Others could join them, like Ja'Marr Chase, Laviska Shenault, and Deebo Samuel - who profile as exciting young talents in promising offensive attacks.Round 9PICKPLAYERTEAM81Robby Anderson (WR36)Scaglione82Dallas Goedert (TE7)Bottero83Trey Sermon (RB32)Boone84Tyler Boyd (WR37)Rohaly85Raheem Mostert (RB33)Dalley86Brandin Cooks (WR38)Holroyd87Ronald Jones II (RB34)Chippin88Jarvis Landry (WR39)Valente89Michael Carter (RB35)Washington90DeVonta Smith (WR40)DicksonRound 9: A pair of 1,000-yard receivers from 2020 - Robby Anderson and Brandin Cooks - were excellent picks in this round. However, it's the rookie running backs that piqued my interest. 49ers' Trey Sermon and Jets' Michael Carter have been getting plenty of time running with their first-team offenses in OTAs and training camp, and they should have the inside track on major roles in Year 1. They're the exact kind of big swing selections you should be making at this point in your draft. Don't play it safe in the later rounds.Round 10PICKPLAYERTEAM91Tom Brady (QB9)Dickson92Noah Fant (TE8)Washington93Michael Pittman Jr. (WR41)Valente94Melvin Gordon III (RB36)Chippin95David Johnson (RB37)Holroyd96Devin Singletary (RB38)Dalley97Tyler Higbee (TE9)Rohaly98Antonio Brown (WR42)Boone99Will Fuller V (WR43)Bottero100Curtis Samuel (WR44)ScaglioneRound 10: Keep moving Antonio Brown up your draft board. From the time of his Buccaneers' debut in Week 9 until the end of the regular season, Brown averaged the 26th most fantasy points among receivers. He's followed that up with rave reviews in training camp, catching almost everything Tom Brady has thrown his way. Competing for targets with Mike Evans and Chris Godwin isn't ideal, but Brown already proved he can produce as Tampa's third option. And if an injury occurs ahead of him on the depth chart, there's no reason why AB couldn't be a top-20 fantasy wideout in 2021.Round 11PICKPLAYERTEAM101Matthew Stafford (QB10)Scaglione102AJ Dillon (RB39)Bottero103Michael Gallup (WR45)Boone104Chuba Hubbard (RB40)Rohaly105Irv Smith Jr. (TE10)Dalley106Mike Williams (WR46)Holroyd107Emmanuel Sanders (WR47)Chippin108James Conner (RB41)Valente109Cole Beasley (WR48)Washington110Kenyan Drake (RB42)DicksonRound 11: After drafting two strong receivers in the opening four rounds, I've managed to give myself several shots at finding a breakout for my third receiver spot with Aiyuk, Shenault, Brown, and now Michael Gallup. In a 10-team league, your roster needs to be filled with high-end starters to bring home the title, and hammering a position like this gives you more opportunity to find that difference-maker.Round 12PICKPLAYERTEAM111Jaylen Waddle (WR49)Dickson112Jamaal Williams (RB43)Washington113Henry Ruggs III (WR50)Valente114Mike Gesicki (TE11)Chippin115Darnell Mooney (WR51)Holroyd116Gabriel Davis (WR52)Dalley117Joe Burrow (QB11)Rohaly118Logan Thomas (TE12)Boone119Gus Edwards (RB44)Bottero120Latavius Murray (RB45)ScaglioneRound 12: If you don't get a top tight end, then waiting at the position is the way to go. Despite my initial concerns about Logan Thomas' workload, Curtis Samuel's lingering groin injury could keep Thomas' target volume intact. He's a decent option this late and can be paired with another late-round upside tight end like Robert Tonyan, Jonnu Smith, or Adam Trautman.Had I not waited on tight end, my goal in Round 12 would have been to get a quality backup RB who's one injury away from massive volume, like Jamaal Williams, Gus Edwards, or Latavius Murray.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Tom Brady is prepared to stay in as long as head coach Bruce Arians wants when he plays his first preseason game Saturday with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers."I'm kind of always ready to go," the quarterback said Thursday, according to Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times. "I love playing football. I love competing. If he said, 'Hey, you're going to play the whole game,' I'll be ready to play the whole game. It's kind of how I feel about what I need to do for my job."Brady and the Bucs didn't see any exhibition action last year, as the NFL nixed the preseason at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Tampa Bay will take the field for the first of three exhibition contests this year against the Cincinnati Bengals.The 44-year-old Brady typically received some preseason snaps with the New England Patriots, where he spent his first 20 seasons. NFL teams have gradually gone away from playing their starting quarterbacks prior to Week 1 over the course of Brady's career."If he wants me to not play, five plays, 20 plays - whatever he wants me to do, we'll be ready to go," Brady added.Despite not getting any tuneup games last year, the Buccaneers went on to win Super Bowl LV while Brady captured his seventh career title.The Bucs are slated to open the regular season Sept. 9 against the Dallas Cowboys.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas and head coach Sean Payton had positive talks during a recent meeting as the pair tries to resolve lingering concerns between them, sources told Yahoo Sports' Charles Robinson.Reports surfaced last week saying that before rejoining the Saints in June, Thomas ignored calls from his coaches for three months after they discovered he'd require an ankle surgery that will sideline him for at least the start of the regular season. The story emerged just days after Payton said Thomas should've undergone surgery sooner this year.The star wideout then apparently addressed that report with a cryptic tweet."They tried to damage your reputation. You saved their lives by not telling your side of the story," wrote Thomas, who was limited to just seven regular-season appearances last campaign due to an ankle ailment.The unsolved problem quickly fueled speculation about a potential trade involving the 28-year-old, who's established himself as one of the NFL's top receivers since entering the league as a second-round pick in 2016.The 2019 Offensive Player of the Year inked a five-year extension with New Orleans in July 2019 worth $96.25 million.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Dak Prescott is continuing to work his way back from a right shoulder strain that sidelined him during training camp, but the quarterback and his Dallas Cowboys are remaining cautious.Prescott intends to undergo another MRI after his team's return to Dallas next week from its training camp headquarters in Oxnard, California, the Cowboys announced Wednesday.The Cowboys aimed to alleviate any fears regarding the MRI.

Get ready for your season with theScore's 2021 Fantasy Football Draft Kit 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, Stitcher, and Anchor.In this episode, Sean Koerner of The Action Network joins Boone to discuss how to approach wide receivers in this year's fantasy drafts.

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Derek Carr believes he can play at a high level for many years to come and could even have an NFL career as long as Tom Brady's."I feel like I can play another 15 years, without a doubt," Carr said Wednesday, according to ESPN's Paul Gutierrez. "Nothing's hurting. It's the middle of camp, and I feel great. I feel strong, I feel fast, I feel explosive."Carr is heading into his eighth NFL season in 2021. The 30-year-old's coming off one of his best individual campaigns after completing 67.3% of his passes for 4,103 yards and 27 touchdowns against nine interceptions."I feel like I'm 20," he said. "I honestly believe that our generation, the way we can take care of our bodies with football, I think 30 is the new 20."I honestly feel stronger, faster, better than I first did when I got to the NFL. ... And that comes with more knowledge on how to train, how to eat, how to take care of your body."Carr has made 110 starts since entering the NFL in 2014, missing just two regular-season games during that span. His most significant injury dates back to the end of the 2016 season when a fractured fibula sidelined him in Week 17 and for the wild-card loss to the Houston Texans."I remember people ahead of me talking about Year 8 like, 'Yeah, I'm miserable,' and they can barely walk out of bed. I'm blessed, man. I don't have those problems. And I've had broken bones. But the way they rehab and stuff nowadays, I feel great," said Carr.Brady turned 44 last week after spending his 21st pro campaign with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The legendary passer, who signed an extension this offseason to keep him in Tampa Bay for at least two more years, has long made it known that his ultimate goal is playing until age 45.Bucs general manager Jason Litch has said he'd keep Brady until age 50, but the signal-caller responded by saying that, even for him, playing until 50 is a long time.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Seattle Seahawks released defensive end Aldon Smith, the team announced Wednesday.The team released him because he violated its trust in connection to an off-field matter and the decision isn't football-related, a source told ESPN's Brady Henderson.Smith signed a one-year deal with Seattle this offseason.The 31-year-old was arrested on a second-degree battery charge in April. The alleged incident took place two days after Smith signed with the Seahawks.The former All-Pro has been arrested on multiple drunk-driving charges and he's missed four seasons because of suspensions.Smith was reinstated by the NFL last spring and signed a one-year deal with the Dallas Cowboys. He tallied 48 tackles, five tackles for loss, and two fumble recoveries.A first-round selection of the San Francisco 49ers in 2011, Smith racked up 44 sacks in his first four campaigns before off-field issues took him away from the game.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Patrick Mahomes has already accomplished a lot in his short NFL career, but he's still eager to learn from other quarterbacks.The Kansas City Chiefs signal-caller reaches out to Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers for advice, he told The Ringer's Kevin Clark."I think people don't realize all us guys talk. I talk to Aaron, I talk to Tom, and they're willing to give me advice," Mahomes said. "I'm still a young guy in this league. I'm still trying to learn how to continue to have success every single year, and so being able to talk like that with the guys is definitely a good thing."Mahomes has earned a Super Bowl win, a Super Bowl MVP Award, an NFL MVP Award, and three Pro Bowl selections over his four seasons with the Chiefs. His goal for the 2021 campaign, which he shared in May, is to lead the Chiefs to a 20-0 record."That's just the beauty of football is every single year, the year starts over no matter if you win or lose the Super Bowl," Mahomes told Clark. "So we got a brand-new year, brand-new team, and we're ready to go out there and make a run at it."Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Baltimore Ravens rookie wide receiver Rashod Bateman could miss considerable time with a leg injury, head coach John Harbaugh revealed Wednesday."He's got a soft tissue - a leg issue - that's gonna be weeks," Harbaugh said. "It will be a number of weeks. I don't know how many, it's not gonna be months, but it'll be weeks."Bateman suffered the injury Tuesday at practice, falling to the ground after pulling up short on a slant route. He eventually limped off the field.

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Carson Wentz and guard Quenton Nelson are trending toward being ready for the Sept. 12 season opener, sources told ESPN's Chris Mortensen.The two underwent identical foot surgeries in early August and were expected to miss 5-to-12 weeks.Wentz appeared at practice Tuesday without a walking boot and is set to begin rehab next week. The Colts acquired him from the Philadelphia Eagles in an offseason trade after his relationship with his former club disintegrated.Nelson is looking to keep his iron man reputation intact, as the 25-year-old has never missed a game in his NFL career. The three-time All-Pro quickly established himself as one of the top offensive linemen in the league after the Colts drafted him sixth overall in 2018.Jacob Eason is the favorite to start at quarterback Week 1 against the Seattle Seahawks if Wentz is unavailable, though Sam Ehlinger has also taken some first-team reps at training camp.Indianapolis will open its preseason schedule Sunday versus the Carolina Panthers.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Indianapolis Colts have signed general manager Chris Ballard and head coach Frank Reich to contract extensions through the 2026 campaign, the team announced Wednesday."In Chris Ballard and Frank Reich, we have as great a general manager-head coach combination as there is in the NFL, and I can't tell you how proud I am to have them leading our franchise," Colts owner Jim Irsay said. "I truly believe this football team is on the doorstep of great things, and that's because of the culture both have cultivated in their time with the Horseshoe."Whether we are marching toward the playoffs or facing adversity, whether we are building our roster or making a difference in the community, we have the ideal leaders in Chris and Frank."Ballard and Reich are entering their fourth season together after reaching the playoffs twice. They've solidified a Colts franchise that was reeling when the pair took over.Under Ballard's leadership, the Colts have been one of the NFL's most fiscally responsible clubs. Ballard has become more aggressive recently after taking a conservative approach to talent acquisition early in his tenure, orchestrating trades for DeForest Buckner and Carson Wentz while investing big money in his offensive line.Reich earned strong marks in 2018 after leading the Colts to nine wins over their final 10 games to earn a surprise postseason berth. He's maintained his positive reputation since then, though Reich faces a new test in 2021 with Wentz and Quenton Nelson likely to miss the beginning of the season.Ballard arrived in Indianapolis in 2017, one year before Reich. He held on to head coach Chuck Pagano for one year before bringing in Reich, who was hired after Josh McDaniels backed out of his deal to coach the Colts.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson is willing to restructure his contract to accommodate new deals for safety Jamal Adams and left tackle Duane Brown, sources told The Seattle Times' Adam Jude and Bob Condotta.Wilson is due a $19-million base salary in 2021, but restructuring his deal would involve converting that salary into a signing bonus to give the Seahawks more immediate cap flexibility. Seattle currently has only $8.2 million in cap space for the coming season.Adams and Brown have been present at the Seahawks' facility since players reported for training camp two weeks ago, but they aren't practicing due to their respective contract situations.Adams, 25, is set to play the final year of his rookie deal in 2021, and his camp has been negotiating a new deal with the Seahawks for weeks. The two sides have reportedly agreed to make the three-time Pro Bowler the NFL's highest-paid safety, but negotiations are currently at a standstill, report Jude and Condotta.Justin Simmons of the Denver Broncos tops the position with an average annual salary of $15.25 million.Brown, 35, is in the final season of a deal he inked in 2018. He's started 53 games since joining Seattle midway through the 2017 campaign and is set to earn $10 million in base salary in 2021.Wilson recently discussed Brown's contract situation, saying the Seahawks have "got to figure that out." The 32-year-old signal-caller fueled speculation about his future this offseason after voicing displeasure about the number of hits he's taken during his career.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

It's been two years since we last enjoyed NFL preseason betting, and this year's schedule is condensed to three weeks instead of four. Still, that's plenty of meaningless football for the speculative bettor to make a profit on.Sound like a fool's errand? Not if you know where to find value and how to attack it. Here are five tips for betting on the NFL preseason:Do the researchWhile being informed is always important for any NFL bettor, it's absolutely vital to gaining an edge in the preseason, a period when books and casual bettors often have the same access to key information about how teams prepare.Because coaches aren't overly concerned with wins or losses in exhibition games, they're much freer with information about who will play, what schemes they'll run, and even what plays and formations they might employ in key spots. The preseason is about repetition - even if the opponent knows what's coming.That can play right into your hands as a bettor. The Cowboys and Steelers, for example, were clear about not playing their starting quarterbacks in last week's Hall of Fame Game, and we targeted the under for a comfortable win. Sometimes, all it takes is a little research.Pick your spotsNot every game is worth betting, and that's especially true in the preseason. While oddsmakers are working at a deficit when it comes to information, bettors are, too. That can sometimes leave little advantage.When your research leads you to a spot worth playing, take your shot. If one team plans to play its starters for a half while the other won't play its starters at all, target the first-half line on the former. If two clubs are both rolling out the first-teamers for an entire half, and oddsmakers have it priced as a pick 'em, don't hesitate to play the better team.For most of the preseason, though, it's better to watch from the sidelines. Many of these contests feature fringe NFL players running new schemes with personal stakes driving their play, which leaves too many variables to find a true edge. When you find one, attack it. But don't force a play.Check depth chartsStarters have traditionally only played a few drives before the third week of exhibition play, and we could see fewer starters than ever before in this truncated preseason. That leaves bettors relying largely on backups to cash their bets.So, even in weeks when starters will play a quarter or two, get comfortable with the depth charts of the teams you're backing. That's especially true at the quarterback position, where a good backup or heated competition can mean an easy profit.Take a look at the Broncos, who have yet to decide if Drew Lock or Teddy Bridgewater will be their Week 1 starter. Head coach Vic Fangio plans to play each quarterback for "more than one quarter," according to Troy Renck of Denver7, which means more time for both to prove their worth as a starter against second-team defenses.Another example is the Raiders, who have one of the best backup QBs in the league in Marcus Mariota to spell Derek Carr. Mariota has been open about his desire to earn a starting job somewhere, so he's a worthwhile bet to produce in his preseason reps. Las Vegas also has a strong rushing duo in Josh Jacobs and Kenyan Drake, which gives the Raiders at least one high-level offensive weapon even once the starters have been shelved.Know your coachesNot every coach approaches the preseason the same way. Knowing which coaches to bet in which spots is paramount to preseason success.The clearest example is Ravens head coach John Harbaugh, who has been vocal about valuing success in the preseason. As a result, Baltimore is a stellar 37-12 straight up and 34-15 against the spread in exhibition games under Harbaugh, with a ridiculous 17-game winning streak.Some coaches are better in certain preseason spots, too. Saints head coach Sean Payton is 11-3 in Week 3 - when starters typically play the most - but he's 2-12 in Week 4 when they play the least. Raiders head coach Jon Gruden is a combined 17-2 in Weeks 1 and 4 - when coaching and motivation often trump talent - but a less inspiring 8-10 in Weeks 2 and 3.Don't blindly bet oversOne of the biggest differences in the preseason compared to the regular season is the shockingly low totals. The highest total in Week 1 of exhibition play is currently 39.5. That mark is lower than the lowest total in Week 1 of the regular season (42.5).That doesn't mean you should slam the over, though. Of the 22 active NFL head coaches who have coached at least one preseason game, 14 have better records to the under, while only six have been better to the over. Overs were the better bet in the early 2010s, but the under has been the obvious play since oddsmakers boosted totals in 2013.It's been almost two years since we've seen preseason football, so you shouldn't blindly bet either side without seeing how teams react to this shortened slate. But even with totals this low, the under is worth an extra look.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

After several years as the Chicago Bears' starter, quarterback Mitchell Trubisky is set to begin a new chapter as a backup for the Buffalo Bills.Although joining a team as the second-string signal-caller wasn't Trubisky's initial plan this offseason, the 2017 second overall pick said he felt like Buffalo was a good fit."At first, I wanted to go to a spot where I would get to compete for a starting position, but the right situation didn't come up and the opportunity wasn't there," Trubisky said Tuesday, according to ESPN's Marcel Louis-Jacque. "I looked at the next best thing, where I could continue to develop and continue to progress and become a better player and a person and fell into this organization, and I loved it ever since coming to Buffalo."It's just really nice to be a part of a great team and be somewhere where people want you here, and they care about how you're progressing as a person, as a player. It was an interesting process, but I feel like I'm right where I'm supposed to be right now, and I'm enjoying being here."The 26-year-old started 50 regular-season games for the Bears and posted a 29-21 record. The North Carolina product, who went 6-3 in 2020, will be the Bills' No. 2 quarterback behind Josh Allen, who finished second in MVP voting last year.Trubisky's best NFL campaign came in 2018 as he tossed 3,223 yards and 24 touchdowns. He also earned a Pro Bowl berth in place of the Super Bowl-bound Jared Goff. However, he wasn't able to take his game to the next level and turn things around offensively for the Bears, whose defense is largely credited for Chicago's two postseason appearances during Trubisky's tenure.The Bears declined the fifth-year option on his rookie contract prior to last season and let the passer leave in free agency."I kind of saw it coming, just the way I was progressing. Year 2 was really good and then Year 3 and 4, not as good," Trubisky said.The Bills' quarterback depth chart also features Jake Fromm, who was drafted in the fifth round last year.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Indianapolis Colts' starting quarterback job seems to be up for grabs in the wake of Carson Wentz's injury.Rookie signal-caller Sam Ehlinger split first-team reps with Jacob Eason on Tuesday, according to ESPN's Mike Wells. Head coach Frank Reich said Ehlinger earned the snaps and that it wasn't an indication that Eason is struggling."This is a meritocracy, and Sam has looked good, so we decided to split it up," Reich said after practice, according to The Athletic's Stephen Holder. "The good news is they both looked sharp today. We'll continue to split those reps."

The Denver Broncos will give Drew Lock and Teddy Bridgewater one start apiece to begin the preseason as their quarterback battle continues, head coach Vic Fangio said Tuesday.Lock will start the team's opener Saturday versus the Minnesota Vikings, while Bridgewater will get his turn one week later against the Seattle Seahawks. The two have been competing for the starting job throughout the offseason, and first-team reps have been split evenly during practice."I have confidence in both those guys, I really do," Fangio said, according to the Denver Post's Ryan O'Halloran and Kyle Newman.Lock was the Broncos' full-time starter in 2020, but he logged 15 interceptions and only 16 touchdown passes. Bridgewater came to Denver in a trade from the Carolina Panthers after throwing 11 interceptions and 15 touchdowns last year.The Broncos will play a third and final dress rehearsal to determine which signal-caller is set to lead the team Week 1 against the New York Giants. The NFL shortened the preseason from four games to three when it expanded the regular season from 16 games to 17.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New Orleans Saints cornerback Patrick Robinson informed the team he's retiring, his agent told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.Robinson spent eight of his 11 NFL seasons with the Saints, splitting the other three years between the then-San Diego Chargers, Indianapolis Colts, and Philadelphia Eagles."He and I spoke for about a half an hour," Saints head coach Sean Payton said Tuesday. "He's had a great career, he's been smart with his money, and it was something that deep down inside he felt."The Saints deployed the Florida State product mostly in the slot in 2020 but were looking at him as a perimeter option at training camp this year. He leaves behind a fairly thin secondary in New Orleans, which needs a new starter to pair with Marshon Lattimore.Robinson finishes his career with 16 interceptions. He won Super Bowl LII with the Eagles and notched a pick-6 in the NFC Championship Game against the Minnesota Vikings that postseason.New Orleans drafted Robinson 32nd overall in 2010.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Expect a heavy dose of Jordan Love this preseason.Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur said Tuesday that Aaron Rodgers will "most likely not" play during the preseason. He added that Love will receive the majority of the snaps Saturday against the Houston Texans.Although Rodgers has criticized the organization this offseason, the reigning MVP rarely participates in exhibition action. He last lined up under center in the preseason in 2018, albeit for just one series, according to ESPN's Rob Demovsky.Love will take his first NFL snaps against the Texans. The 2020 first-rounder didn't see any regular-season action during his rookie campaign after the NFL canceled last year's preseason.The former Utah State passer is elated to finally suit up for the Packers."I'm super excited," Love said last week, according to NFL.com's Kevin Patra.He added: "It's almost like I've been training a year just for this first preseason game. I'm super excited to get out there and get back to playing ball."Kurt Benkert is set to finish the remainder of Saturday's contest once Love exits.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Houston Texans general manager Nick Caserio told "SportsRadio 610" he doesn't expect Deshaun Watson to make the trip for the team's preseason game against the Green Bay Packers on Saturday, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.Head coach David Culley said Watson's likely absence is due to a lack of practice reps, according to ESPN's Sarah Barshop. The quarterback missed five training camp sessions before returning Monday because of reported injuries to his calf and ankle.However, when asked if Watson will play at all this preseason, Culley said, "No comment."The Texans have remained tight-lipped on Watson's future with the club. Caserio also told "SportsRadio 610" that he and Culley have had multiple conversations with the quarterback, though there are "a lot of moving parts" to the situation.Watson is currently facing 22 civil lawsuits, while 10 criminal complaints were also filed against him.Additionally, the 25-year-old reportedly requested a trade this offseason. He arrived for training camp, though, as he would've been subject to a $50,000 fine for each day he missed.The Texans added quarterbacks Tyrod Taylor and Jeff Driskel this offseason. They also used a third-round pick on Stanford signal-caller Davis Mills.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Joe Haden's agent Drew Rosenhaus has approached the Pittsburgh Steelers regarding an extension for the cornerback, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter."Joe wants to finish his career with the Steelers if possible," Rosenhaus said.The 32-year-old is entering the final year of his deal and is set to earn $7 million in base salary in 2021, according to Spotrac.The veteran expressed his desire to get a new pact done, but Haden understands he may need to wait until outside linebacker T.J. Watt receives an extension."I would rather have a contract (for) more than this year because I want to end my career here," Haden told The Athletic's Mark Kaboly. "We will see what happens, but we want to get T.J. Watt signed first, obviously. He’s the main priority."Haden has spent the last four seasons as the Steelers' top cornerback. Pittsburgh added him shortly before the 2017 campaign following his release from the Cleveland Browns.Haden has made 56 starts for the Steelers while recording 10 interceptions and 48 passes defensed.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Buffalo Bills and quarterback Josh Allen on Friday agreed to a six-year contract extension that will pay him up to $258 million, including $150 million in guarantees.That's what all the headlines said anyway.As with any NFL contract, the true value can be interpreted based on the fine print - i.e., the deal's structure. This is because the salary cap is fungible, at least, to a point. The actual details of Allen's deal were first reported by Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio. Let's take a look at what they mean for the Bills and for Allen.1. The pact has an average annual value of $43 million, which lands right between the league-high $45 million in AAV that Patrick Mahomes got last summer from the Kansas City Chiefs and the $40 million in AAV that the Dallas Cowboys agreed to pay Dak Prescott in the spring. This range seems about right for both Allen and the Bills.2. Yes, that's what top quarterbacks cost in today's NFL. Having a quality signal-caller can be the difference between consistently competing for a championship and being a middling also-ran. And there isn't a plentiful supply of quality QBs, which is, naturally, why they're so expensive. Notice the emphasis on the word quality - it will come up again.3. Buffalo capitalized perfectly on Allen's low-cost rookie contract over the last three years by building a competitive roster. This included trading for wideout Stefon Diggs and locking down homegrown talents such as left tackle Dion Dawkins, cornerback Tre'Davious White, and linebacker Matt Milano. By signing Allen now, even with two years remaining on his rookie deal, the Bills wisely got him on his second contract before he became even more expensive in the years ahead.Additionally, the cap, which is yoked to league revenues, is scheduled to start rising again in 2022, with a ceiling of $208.2, or a 14% increase. Aaron Rodgers just got the Green Bay Packers to rework his deal to allow for a possible trade next spring, which undoubtedly would coincide with a new deal for Rodgers that ain't going to be cheap.The NFL's next slew of broadcasting contracts are going to kick in for 2023, and that's going to shower the league with all kinds of revenue that then must be passed on to the players. If you think top-shelf NFL contracts are pricey at the moment, just wait. In a few years, pass-rushers will be pulling down municipal-budget-level money. Billie Weiss / Getty Images4. The six-year length of Allen's deal is also good for the Bills. Those seasons are tacked on to the two existing years from his rookie contract, which means Buffalo has him under control through 2028. The $43 million in AAV will be a huge bargain for the team by then. Why? Because the top of the quarterback market (excluding Mahomes' deal because of its extraordinary 10-year length) has increased by 75% just since 2016. And, again, there's a boatload of money that will soon be flowing throughout the NFL.5. Obviously, this is all contingent on Allen continuing to play at a high level. The Bills gave him this deal under the assumption that he will continue to be a quality quarterback for years to come. But that's the risk teams take on in any huge deal. The six-year length - which prevents Allen from getting back to the bargaining table anytime soon, as Prescott can do after signing for four years - seems to be where the team and the player reached a compromise on big money and massive guarantees.6. Make no mistake, though: Buffalo is taking a substantial risk here. Allen was terrific in 2020, but there were some doubts about him before that. The deal has a rolling guarantee structure, which means a number of future guarantees vest on an annual basis one or two years out. The contract is already fully guaranteed for three years (2021-23) and includes a $6-million roster bonus for 2024. However, it has a bunch of practical guarantees that kick in during the spring of 2022, 2023, and 2024 that essentially make it impossible for the Bills to move on from Allen until the spring of 2025, at the earliest.And even then, in March 2025, because of those rolling guarantees, cutting Allen would still cost Buffalo a $59-million dead-money charge and increase his anticipated cap hit that season roughly $8 million above its anticipated rate of $51 million. There are a lot of particulars to unpack to explain why things work out that way, but that's basically what you need to know.Even if the Bills wanted to jettison Allen in the spring of 2026, they'd still have about $23.48 million in dead money eating away at their cap that year, though that figure would basically offset the cap savings they'd see from moving on. Long story short, if Allen were to Wentz - a verb that's shorthand for a QB who signs a big-money deal and then quickly craps his pants, as Carson Wentz did for the Philadelphia Eagles - this deal basically assures that the Bills are pretty much stuck with Allen through 2025 or 2026. They're clearly banking on him remaining a quality QB for the next several years, rather than one who Wentzes.7. At the same time, the contract's structure allows Buffalo to keep Allen's cap number quite low in the short term - just $10.2 million in 2021 and $16.4 million in 2022, according to Over the Cap's database. That figure jumps to $39.8 million in 2023 and stays in that range after that, though by then, the cap ought to be much higher, too.8. What does all of this mean for the Baltimore Ravens' Lamar Jackson and the Cleveland Browns' Baker Mayfield, who are also eligible for second contracts? Jackson, who has an MVP and three playoff appearances in as many years, could try to command a similar AAV. The question is whether he and the Ravens will want a deal with a similar length. Mayfield likely won't get Allen money, but might the Browns want to wait to see how he performs in 2021 before pulling the trigger? The risk is that if Mayfield plays really well, he's only going to be that much more expensive.Dom Cosentino is a senior features writer at theScore.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Get ready for your season with theScore's 2021 Fantasy Football Draft Kit and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.More in this series

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson was noncommittal about getting vaccinated against COVID-19 after testing positive for the virus for the second time in eight months."I just got off the COVID list," Jackson said, according to ESPN's Jamison Hensley. "I got to talk to my team about this and see how they feel about it. Keep learning as much as I can about it. We'll go from there."Jackson said "we'll see" when asked if he's now considering getting vaccinated.The 2019 MVP missed 10 days of practice due to the NFL's regulations for unvaccinated players who test positive. He said he dealt with the same symptoms after being reinfected and slept a lot due to fatigue.Jackson was held out of a rescheduled game against the Pittsburgh Steelers last season after being placed on the reserve list due to a positive test. The star signal-caller was among a large group of Ravens forced to isolate following an outbreak toward the end of the season.But despite multiple positive tests, Jackson still believes getting vaccinated is a "personal decision.""I'm just going to keep my feelings to my family and myself," he said. "I'm focused on getting better right now. I can't dwell on ... how everybody else feels. Just trying to get back to the right routine."Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Saquon Barkley has been activated off the physically unable to perform list and will practice with the New York Giants on Monday, the team announced.The Giants have taken a cautious approach with the running back as he returns from a season-ending knee injury suffered during the 2020 campaign. Barkley tore his ACL and also sustained meniscus damage last September.The 24-year-old has spent time working on a side field with trainers after landing on the PUP list to open camp, according to ESPN's Jordan Raanan. Head coach Joe Judge has been adamant that the club won't rush the Pro Bowler back.The second overall pick in 2018 rushed for 1,307 yards during his first campaign and followed that with another 1,000-plus-yard season in 2019. His 2020 season was limited to just two games due to the injury.The Giants open their season on Sept. 12 against the Denver Broncos.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson returned to practice Monday, according to ESPN's Sarah Barshop.The 25-year-old was seen talking to general manager Nick Caserio before practice, and he also connected with Anthony Miller for a touchdown during the session.He headed off the field shortly after while the rest of the team continued to practice, according to The Athletic's Aaron Reiss.Watson participated in the Texans' first five practices of training camp in a limited capacity while only taking part in individual drills. He then missed the next five sessions.The signal-caller was reportedly dealing with lingering calf and ankle tightness during his absence, though the injuries were deemed minor.The Texans have remained silent on Watson's future with the team. He's currently facing 22 civil lawsuits, and 10 criminal complaints were filed against him.The three-time Pro Bowler also reportedly requested a trade this offseason.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Patrick Mahomes will never forget losing Super Bowl LV.The Kansas City Chiefs quarterback doesn't think he'll ever come to terms with his offense's failure to score a touchdown during the team's 31-9 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on the NFL's biggest stage.“For us to go out there and not be able to get in the end zone at all, it’s something that will kind of haunt me for the rest of my career," Mahomes told NBC Sports' Peter King.With a toe injury plaguing him while playing behind a depleted offensive line, Mahomes could only lead the Chiefs to three field goals during the Super Bowl. It was the first time the Chiefs didn't score a touchdown with Mahomes starting. The defeat also marked the passer's first loss by eight-plus points as a starter.The marquee game was expected to be a clash between Mahomes and Tom Brady, but the Chiefs signal-caller finished with a career-worst 52.3 passer rating.The 25-year-old underwent surgery to repair his turf toe injury following the Super Bowl, but he's feeling back to full speed at training camp.“This is the best it’s felt since before the playoffs last year. Haven’t had to take any days off or any plays off," Mahomes said.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Multiple team executives around the NFL believe the Jacksonville Jaguars are making cornerback C.J. Henderson available via trade, sources told ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.Things are reportedly good between the team and Henderson, leaving the possibility he remains in Jacksonville. While the team does like its corners, the defensive back would garner interest, according to Fowler.Henderson, who was recently activated from the reserve/COVID-19 list, is just one year into his rookie contract after being the ninth overall selection in the 2020 NFL Draft.The 22-year-old started all eight contests he played in 2020. He tallied 36 tackles, six pass defenses, and one interception.Henderson finished the 2020 season on injured reserve after suffering a groin injury in November.The secondary also boasts Sidney Jones and free-agent acquisition Shaquill Griffin. Jacksonville selected Georgia cornerback Tyson Campbell in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Green Bay Packers receiver Devin Funchess apologized after using an anti-Asian slur and gesture during a press conference Saturday."I want to apologize for the disparaging remark I used tonight. It was not OK," Funchess tweeted Sunday. "I have grown to develop deep personal and business relationships in the Asian community! I meant no harm, and those that know me, know I have love and respect for all cultures and people. I will learn from this and will continue to grow as a person. I'm forever sorry!"Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst called Funchess' comment "unacceptable," adding that he has addressed the incident with the wideout, according to Ryan Wood of the Green Bay Press-Gazette.The 2015 second-round receiver joined the Packers in 2020. However, he has yet to play for the team after opting out of last season due to COVID-19.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Xavien Howard is staying in Miami.The cornerback and the Miami Dolphins agreed on a restructured contract, head coach Brian Flores announced Sunday.“We’re excited to have gotten this done," Flores said, according to NFL Network's Cameron Wolfe."In any negotiation, compromise is important," he added. "We want all sides to be happy.”Howard received a $1 million Pro Bowl incentive and $3.5 million in additional incentives as part of his new deal, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports. The Dolphins agreed to rescind all minicamp fines as well.Miami also assured Howard it will renegotiate a new deal next year and guaranteed $6.78 million of his 2022 salary, Rapoport adds.However, Howard's full 2022 salary of $12.98 million is injury protected and will become fully guaranteed on the first day of the league year, Rapoport notes. Additionally, the Dolphins converted Howard's $500,000 per-game roster bonuses and $100,000 workout bonus for next season to base salary and guaranteed money.The 28-year-old was frustrated with the Dolphins due to his contract status, and he went public with a trade request last month. Howard cited being paid less than teammate Byron Jones as one of his many issues.However, the Dolphins remained hopeful they could find a resolution. Howard also appeared open to remaining in Miami shortly after his request, saying it would be the team's responsibility to fix the situation.There are still four years left on the five-year, $75.25-million extension the veteran signed in 2019. It's believed to be the first time in NFL history a player with four years left on his deal has received added money and guarantees, according to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo.The second-round pick in 2016 is coming off his best season as a pro. He led the league in interceptions (10) and passes defended (20) in 2020, earning him Pro Bowl and First-Team All-Pro honors.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Indianapolis Colts and Darius Leonard have agreed to a contract extension, the club announced Sunday.Leonard's new deal is a five-year pact worth $99.25 million, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports.The contract, which includes $52.5 million guaranteed, will make Leonard the NFL's highest-paid inside linebacker, Rapoport adds. San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner, who inked a five-year extension reportedly worth $95 million last month, was previously the position's highest earner.