Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson is expected to report for training camp Sunday, a source told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.Watson, who didn't attend organized team activities in May, still wants to be moved after requesting a trade from the Texans earlier this offseason, Rapoport adds.By reporting to camp, Watson will avoid a $50,000 fine for each day missed at practice, notes Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.Watson initially requested a trade after the Texans hired Nick Caserio as their general manager in January. The 25-year-old signal-caller recorded a career-high 33 touchdown throws last season and a league-leading 4,823 passing yards. However, Houston finished the campaign 4-12.Watson is also facing off-field issues, as the NFL is currently investigating the passer after 22 lawsuits alleging sexual assault and inappropriate behavior were filed against him this offseason.At least eight teams reportedly expressed interest in trading for Watson prior to his legal issues, including the New York Jets, Miami Dolphins, Carolina Panthers, Denver Broncos, San Francisco 49ers, New England Patriots, Chicago Bears, and Washington Football Team.The Texans added multiple quarterbacks this offseason, signing veteran signal-caller Tyrod Taylor and using a third-round pick on Davis Mills.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

A player's vaccination status seems to be crucial for free agents looking for new teams.Agents for multiple free-agent players said clubs are immediately asking if their clients are vaccinated, according to NFL reporter Aaron Wilson.Wide receiver Terrelle Pryor, who hasn't played since 2018, said he was denied a tryout recently."Had a tryout lined up. (The team) said I can't visit unless I'm vaccinated! Now I'm torn between, tough decision," Pryor wrote Saturday in a since-deleted tweet, according to Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.Agent Chad Speck said one of his players had to deal with the same issue.

Just days before training camp begins, Anthony Miller is getting a new address.The Chicago Bears are trading Miller to the Houston Texans, reports NFL Network's Mike Garafolo and Ian Rapoport.As part of the trade, the two clubs are making a late-round pick swap, adds Rapoport.The Bears drafted Miller 51st overall in 2018. He hauled in seven touchdowns in his rookie year but was held to two scores in each of the following two seasons. Miller owns 1,564 career receiving yards but has never topped 656 yards in one campaign.Miller is entering the final year of his contract.The 26-year-old will now join a roster of journeyman playmakers in Houston. The Texans' receiving group includes Brandin Cooks, Randall Cobb, Andre Roberts, Chris Conley, Donte Moncrief, and homegrown wideout Keke Coutee.The Bears' wideout corps goes down a body. It's led by franchise-tagged star Allen Robinson who is now surrounded primarily by Riley Ridley, Darnell Mooney, Damiere Byrd, and Marquise Goodwin.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Free-agent receiver Dede Westbrook plans to sign a one-year deal with the Minnesota Vikings, reports NFL reporter Josina Anderson.Anderson reported Friday that the former Jacksonville Jaguars wideout was planning to visit the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday but was meeting with the Vikings at the time.Westbrook, a 2017 fourth-round pick, recorded 1,716 yards and nine touchdowns in his first three seasons but was limited to one catch in two games in 2020.The 27-year-old tore his ACL in Week 7 after Jacksonville made him a healthy scratch for five of its first six games of the campaign.He's expected to be ready for football drills in August.Should he sign with the Vikings, Westbrook will join a receiving corps headlined by Justin Jefferson and Adam Thielen and supported by Olabisi Johnson, Chad Beebe, and 2021 fifth-round pick Ihmir Smith-Marsette.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The NFL will fine unvaccinated players $14,650 any time they aren't wearing a mask or are breaking a COVID-19 protocol, league spokesperson Brian McCarthy confirmed, according to ESPN's Jenna Laine.Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Bruce Arians, who made news earlier by saying he'd fine any unvaccinated player $14,000 for each protocol violation, also said vaccinated players will be tested 14 times this season, while those who are unvaccinated will be subject to testing 140 times, per Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times.Any game that can't be rescheduled this NFL season due to a COVID-19 outbreak among unvaccinated players on one of the competing teams will reportedly result in a forfeit by the club responsible.Vaccinated players will be eligible for relaxed protocols this year, such as no physical distancing while in team facilities and not having to quarantine after being exposed to someone who tests positive.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Aaron Rodgers and wide receiver Davante Adams created further speculation Friday night about their future with the Green Bay Packers.Rodgers and Adams both posted the same picture of Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen in an apparent reference to "The Last Dance."

Dak Prescott is itching to play full-speed football before the regular season starts in his comeback from a gruesome ankle injury.After participating in his first full practice of training camp on Friday, the Dallas Cowboys quarterback said he hopes to get the chance to shake off the rust in the preseason, though he's unsure if he'll play the Hall of Fame Game on Aug. 5 against the Pittsburgh Steelers."I definitely want to play. As far as giving you a number or quantity of how much I need to, I just want to obviously get back out there and get some reps before it's real," Prescott said, according to ESPN's Todd Archer. "Just to have a live defense coming at me, hopefully not take too many licks because I have great protection, but that's part of the game, and I think it would obviously be great to get up from that, wipe it off and be just another process of burying the injury. I think it will be huge."Prescott suffered a compound fracture and dislocation of his right ankle last October. He spent the offseason program slowly working his way up to full speed with the aim of being ready to go by training camp.The 27-year-old said the injury was no longer on his mind during the first session.Prescott and the Cowboys will have a tough first test in 2021. They square off against the reigning Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the regular-season opener on Sept. 9.The quarterback, who signed a four-year, $160-million extension in March, is excited for his team to test itself against the NFL's best."What a special way to start this season off, not only for us but for this league, for fans: America's Team playing obviously the reigning Super Bowl champions with the best quarterback to do it," Prescott said. "I'm excited for them. I'm excited for the matchup against this defense, a very talented defense."I know our defense is very excited for that matchup against Tom and his guys. It's going to be special, not only for us in Cowboys nation but for this NFL. It will be a great way to kick off the season and kick off our season the right way."Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Rick Dennison is out as a Minnesota Vikings assistant coach after refusing to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, sources told ESPN's Courtney Cronin.Dennison, 63, is believed to be the first position coach in the NFL to part ways with his club due to his refusal to receive the vaccine. He's been the Vikings' offensive line coach and running game coordinator for the last two seasons.However, Minnesota addressed the report about Dennison in a statement, saying talks remaining ongoing."The Vikings continue to hold discussions with offensive line coach Rick Dennison regarding the NFL-NFLPA COVID-19 protocols for training camp and preseason games," the team said, per NFL reporter Josina Anderson."At this time, coach Dennison does not have an exemption to the vaccination requirement of those protocols. We will adhere to the requirements of the protocols and of applicable law."Meanwhile, New England Patriots co-offensive line coach Cole Popovich will also not be with his team this season in a decision related to the COVID-19 vaccine and NFL's guidelines, sources told ESPN's Mike Reiss.The vaccine is required for all Tier 1 staff - coaches, front-office executives, equipment managers, and scouts - to have contact with players and other coaches.It's not mandatory for players, but the NFL has strongly updated its COVID-19 protocols this year to ease rules for fully vaccinated individuals. The league announced Thursday that any game that can't be rescheduled due to a COVID-19 outbreak among unvaccinated players will result in the responsible team forfeiting the contest.Dennison has been in the NFL for almost three decades. He spent time with the Denver Broncos, Houston Texans, Baltimore Ravens, and New York Jets. He'll be replaced in Minnesota by assistant offensive line coach Phil Rauscher, Cronin reports.Minnesota's running game, which is led by star Dalvin Cook, has been one of the most consistent in the NFL. The team's offensive line is coming off a subpar campaign but welcomed two promising draft picks this offseason, including first-round offensive tackle Christian Darrisaw.Popovich was set to share the offensive line coaching job with Carmen Bricillo this year. Bricillo will now coach the offensive line unit alone.The 36-year-old spent the last five seasons with the Patriots. Popovich coached the offensive line with Bricillo in 2020 after leading the running back group in 2019.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Seattle Seahawks are prepared to pay Jamal Adams more than any other NFL safety once they sign a long-term extension, NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reports.The two sides have been negotiating a new deal lately, with the three-time Pro Bowler set to play the final year of his rookie contract.Denver Broncos defensive back Justin Simmons currently tops the position with an average annual salary of $15.25 million.Adams often lined up as a linebacker in his first season with Seattle, but it's unclear whether that will translate into a financial benefit. The San Francisco 49ers recently made Fred Warner the league's highest-paid linebacker at $19 million annually.The 25-year-old joined the Seahawks via trade from the New York Jets before the 2020 campaign. Adams struggled in pass coverage - allowing a passer rating of 104.7 when targeted - but set a career-high 9.5 sacks through 12 appearances. The LSU product also finished the 2020 season with 83 tackles and three pass breakups.Adams didn't attend Seattle's mandatory minicamp last month due to a family issue, but he's expected to be on the field when the Seahawks report for training camp next week.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

With NFL training camps set to kick off, we assess each team's most interesting position battle.AFC I NFCArizona Cardinals - Running back Christian Petersen / Getty Images Sport / GettyContenders: Chase Edmonds, James ConnerThe Cardinals lost Kenyan Drake in free agency, creating an opening on the depth chart and leaving Edmonds as the immediate front-runner for the job. But Arizona signed Conner, a former starting running back who's two seasons removed from a Pro Bowl campaign. After a solid season with the Cardinals in 2020, Edmonds is expected to enter camp as the No. 1 back. However, Conner's physical traits and experience might cost Edmonds some carries and potentially his job.Atlanta Falcons - SafetyContenders: Duron Harmon, Erik Harris, Richie Grant, Jaylinn HawkinsThe Falcons are looking for two new safeties after losing their starters from 2020 this offseason. Harmon (127 career appearances) and Harris (65) are more experienced, but both have clear limitations. Second-round rookie Grant doesn't have any NFL experience, but his versatility could easily make him the best name of this group soon. Finally, Hawkins hopes to see the field more often after showing good signs in limited playtime as a rookie in 2020.Carolina Panthers - Left tackleContenders: Cameron Erving, Dennis Daley, Trent Scott, Greg LittleThe Panthers acquired Sam Darnold this offseason, but it isn't clear who'll protect the quarterback's blindside. Erving is the presumable front-runner due to his experience, but the former first-round pick has struggled to stay healthy recently. Little has battled his own injuries, and his play has been disappointing since entering the NFL in 2019. That makes Daley and Scott - two unproven offensive linemen - potential options. Carolina still has Brady Christensen on the roster, but the third-round rookie is expected to stay at right tackle.Chicago Bears - QuarterbackContenders: Andy Dalton, Justin FieldsCoach Matt Nagy has repeatedly said Dalton will start in Week 1, but we just don't fully buy that plan yet. Would Chicago really keep Fields on the bench if the first-round rookie outplays Dalton in training camp and preseason? Few teams are as desperate to find solid quarterback play as the Bears, who relied on Mitchell Trubisky and Nick Foles last year. Plus, Fields showed at Ohio State that he has a bright future ahead. His upside is probably higher than Nagy thinks.Dallas Cowboys - LinebackerContenders: Jaylon Smith, Leighton Vander Esch, Micah Parsons, Keanu Neal, Jabril CoxThere's a reason why the Cowboys added linebackers through the draft and free agency. Starters Smith and Vander Esch have lacked consistency. Smith is coming off his worst NFL campaign, and Vander Esch struggles to stay healthy. The two will now compete for snaps with Neal and rookies Cox and Parsons, who's trending up after minicamp and could also play defensive end. Neal, a former Pro Bowl safety who moved to linebacker, is already familiar with defensive coordinator Dan Quinn from their time in Atlanta. Cox offers solid pass coverage support despite still being a liability as a tackler.Detroit Lions - CornerbackContenders: Amani Oruwariye, Quinton DunbarThe Lions have several roster holes after a big rebuild this offseason, but the cornerback position deserves special attention due to its poor form lately. Jeff Okudah is Detroit's presumptive No. 1 corner despite his struggles as a rookie last year. Fighting for a spot opposite Okudah are Oruwariye - who's flashed the potential of a quality starter - and Dunbar - a veteran who was one of football's top corners not long ago. Detroit's depth chart still features Ifeatu Melifonwu, but the third-round rookie's inexperience could be an issue.Green Bay Packers - Cornerback Stacy Revere / Getty Images Sport / GettyContenders: Kevin King, Eric StokesThe Packers brought King back for another year, but there are no guarantees his starting spot opposite Jaire Alexander is safe. King is coming off a disastrous outing in the NFC title game loss that ended Green Bay's 2020 season. Plus, the fifth-year defensive back, who's struggled to stay healthy, has lacked consistency when he's on the field. That explains why the Packers spent a first-round pick this year on Stokes, who had a great college career at Georgia. It's still King's job to lose ahead of camp, but Stokes could take over if his struggles remain.Los Angeles Rams - Wide receiverContenders: DeSean Jackson, Van Jefferson, Tutu AtwellThe Rams' top two receivers - Robert Woods and Cooper Kupp - are undisputed. But the next name on the depth chart is still blank. Jackson may have a slight edge as the No. 3 wideout due to his experience. However, the three-time Pro Bowler, who signed with L.A. this offseason, has appeared in just eight games since 2019. Atwell also joined the team this year, and the second-round rookie could fit like a glove on the Rams' offense due to his speed. Meanwhile, Jefferson enters his second pro season coming off a quiet freshman campaign.Minnesota Vikings - Right guard Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyContenders: Wyatt Davis, Mason Cole, Dakota Dozier, Dru Samia, Kyle HintonThe Vikings badly need an upgrade at guard. Dozier, one of the team's starters in 2020, was PFF's 123rd-ranked guard last season. With him dropping out of the starting lineup and Ezra Cleveland becoming a full-time starter at left guard, the right guard position is open. Davis is the front-runner for the role after joining Minnesota as a third-round pick this year, but Cole is also in the mix due to his versatility. The veteran played center for the Cardinals last season and landed with the Vikings via trade in March.New Orleans Saints - QuarterbackContenders: Jameis Winston, Taysom HillThis offseason had plenty of big quarterback moves, but the Saints decided to look for Drew Brees' replacement within their roster. Winston has more experience under center after starting 70 games for the Buccanneers between 2015-19. However, his 28-42 record and 88 interceptions thrown over that span suggest he could be a liability. Meanwhile, Hill was the one who stepped up as New Orleans' backup last year and started all four games that Brees was sidelined. Whoever wins this battle will have to improve significantly to meet the Saints' high expectations at quarterback.New York Giants - Wide receiverContenders: Sterling Shepard, Darius Slayton, Kadarius Toney, John RossThis past offseason changed the scene for the Giants at wide receiver, giving them more bodies than big roles. With the arrival of Kenny Golladay locking up the No. 1 spot, the main questions are in the slot. We expect New York to keep Slayton outside and return Shepard to the inside, where he's been the most effective throughout his career. But the Giants could also rotate Shepard outside, leaving Slayton as an option in the slot. Either way, New York's next slot receiver will have the competition of first-round rookie Toney, who did most of his damage in college in the slot, and Ross, a former top-10 pick who's trying to revitalize his career.Philadelphia Eagles - Left tackleContenders: Andre Dillard, Jordan MailataThe Eagles have a good problem at left tackle. While some teams are looking for a starting-caliber man at the position, Philadelphia likely has two potential starters. Philly drafted Dillard in the first round in 2019 with the plan to develop him into Jason Peters' replacement. Dillard was set to take over last season, but an injury ended his 2020 campaign before it even began. That opened the door for Mailata, and the former rugby player didn't disappoint. Mailata exceeded expectations in the 10 starts he made last year, putting him in a position to keep the starting role moving forward. Dillard will need a big comeback to retake the spot.San Francisco 49ers - Running back Thearon W. Henderson / Getty Images Sport / GettyContenders: Raheem Mostert, Jeff Wilson Jr., Trey Sermon, Wayne Gallman, JaMycal Hasty, Elijah MitchellThe 49ers' running back position has formed something special under Kyle Shanahan: San Francisco likes using multiple runners instead of regularly employing a feature back. The same script will likely follow in 2021, with Mostert entering camp as the main guy. Next on the depth chart would presumably be Wilson if he was healthy. But Wilson underwent meniscus surgery in late May and is expected to miss part of the season. As a result, third-round rookie Sermon or Gallman, who started 10 games for the Giants last year, could take over. The 49ers' loaded backfield also features Hasty and sixth-round rookie Mitchell.Seattle Seahawks - CornerbackContenders: D.J. Reed, Ahkello Witherspoon, Tre Flowers, Tre Brown, Damarious Randall, Pierre Desir"It's going to take us all of camp to figure (our cornerback competition) out," said coach Pete Carroll, who lost Pro Bowl corner Shaquill Griffin to free agency this offseason. Seattle now needs to find a new top cornerback and decide who will start opposite him. Reed may be in the driver's seat for at least one of those roles after playing well over eight starts in 2020. Witherspoon, a former starter for the 49ers, was Seattle's biggest addition at the position in 2021, so he may have a slight edge, too. But don't forget that Flowers began last season as the No. 2 corner before an injury ended his year prematurely. Plus, Randall and Desir have each started at least 30 games elsewhere.Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Running backContenders: Ronald Jones, Leonard FournetteThe reigning champions brought back all their starters, so we already have a very good idea of how they'll look. But Tampa Bay's running back position could have a few changes. Granted, Jones led the team in carries last year by a significant margin (192 to Fournette's 97), and he's the team's No. 1 back entering camp. But Fournette outplayed Jones in every playoff game last season, finishing the playoffs as one of the Bucs' most important players. Jones' role could be threatened if Fournette picks up where he left off.Washington Football Team - Quarterback Scott Taetsch / Getty Images Sport / GettyContenders: Ryan Fitzpatrick, Taylor Heinicke, Kyle AllenTwo things are at stake for Washington quarterbacks at camp. Firstly, there's a competition for the starting job, according to coach Ron Rivera. But it's hard to envision Fitzpatrick, who Washington signed this year after a solid 2020 season, losing the role. Still, even with Fitzpatrick likely securing the job, the battle between Heinicke and Allen for the backup spot will be intriguing. Allen posted a 99.3 passer rating in four starts in 2020 before sustaining a season-ending injury. Meanwhile, Heinicke played well during the wild-card loss to the Buccaneers in what was his only start last year.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

With NFL training camps set to kick off, we assess each team's most interesting position battle.AFC I NFCBaltimore Ravens - Left guardContenders: Ben Cleveland, Ben Powers, Ben BredesonThree Bens will battle for the starting left guard spot, but only one will emerge victorious after the Ravens moved Bradley Bozeman to center. Cleveland appears to be the favorite with his 6-foot-6, 357-pound frame. Powers will look to push the third-round rookie after starting seven games in 2020, while second-year pro Bredeson could also make some noise.Buffalo Bills - Running back Timothy T Ludwig / Getty Images Sport / GettyContenders: Devin Singletary, Zack Moss, Matt BreidaWith a year of seasoning under his belt, Moss is poised to threaten Singletary for the starting job. Singletary played more snaps than the then-rookie Moss in 2020 (621 to 403), but Moss could flip the script this season. Moss has physical advantages over Singletary, though the latter has the edge as a receiving option. Free-agent signing Breida could make things interesting as he fights for his share of the workload with the loser of the starting competition.Cincinnati Bengals - GuardsContenders: Quinton Spain, Michael Jordan, Jackson Carman, Xavier Su'a-FiloThe Bengals' top priority this season is keeping Joe Burrow clean, and that task starts with the guys up front. The offensive line, which resembled five turnstiles last year, has two spots up for grabs with both coming at the guard positions. Spain, Jordan, and Su'a-Filo are the experienced competitors, but don't count out rookie Carman, who has a real chance of starting at right guard on opening day. Carman will be looking to make the transition from tackle to the interior for Cincinnati.Cleveland Browns - LinebackerContenders: Anthony Walker, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, Jacob Phillips, Malcolm Smith, Sione Takitaki, Mack WilsonCleveland has a large puzzle to piece together when it comes to its starting linebackers. Perhaps no linebacker comes into camp with more buzz than Owusu-Koramoah, who the Browns selected in the second round in what could be the steal of the 2021 draft. The Notre Dame product excels in coverage and will challenge Phillips. Look for free-agent signee Walker to occupy a top spot, leaving Smith, Takitaki, and Wilson to duke it out for the last opening. It's a good problem to have, as the position is oozing with resources.Denver Broncos - Quarterback Hyoung Chang/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images / Denver Post / GettyContenders: Teddy Bridgewater, Drew LockBarring a late trade for Aaron Rodgers, the Broncos' starting quarterback in Week 1 will be Lock or Bridgewater. While neither option is particularly exciting, both QBs are essentially battling for their futures. Time is running out for Lock to prove he's a franchise-caliber quarterback, while Bridgewater is at risk of falling from fringe starter to permanent backup.Houston Texans - Running backContenders: David Johnson, Phillip Lindsay, Mark IngramThe Texans are looking to a trio of misfits for their starting running back job. Johnson was shipped to Houston from Arizona last offseason, while Ingram and Lindsay were released earlier this year by the Ravens and Broncos, respectively. None of the three veterans are short on experience, as they've combined for 13,693 career rushing yards. It's a crowded depth chart, but Houston will need all the help it can get on the ground with Deshaun Watson's future still up in the air.Indianapolis Colts - QuarterbackContenders: Jacob Eason, Sam EhlingerCarson Wentz will be the Colts' starting quarterback - that's obvious. What isn't clear is whether he will remain under center for the entire 2021 season. Plagued by injuries and poor play in recent years, there's more than a slight chance the newly acquired passer finds himself on the bench at some point. That makes the battle for the backup spot between Eason, a promising prospect in his second season, and Ehlinger, a sixth-round rookie, all the more important.Jacksonville Jaguars - Running backContenders: James Robinson, Travis Etienne, Carlos HydeYou don't want to miss the main event in the Jaguars' running back room. Robinson and Etienne go head to head and took very different paths to get to this moment. Robinson had a marvelous rookie season after going undrafted in 2020, rushing for over 1,000 yards. But that won't guarantee him anything in 2021 after the Jaguars used a first-round pick on Etienne. Head coach Urban Meyer said after the draft that he envisions Etienne as a third-down back, but with such a big investment attached to Etienne, it doesn't seem like it'll be long before the ACC's all-time leading rusher takes the reins in Jacksonville.Kansas City Chiefs - Right tackleContenders: Mike Remmers, Lucas NiangThe Chiefs had high hopes for Niang as a backup tackle before he opted out of the 2020 campaign. Now, he's back and focused on winning the starting job with Mitchell Schwartz out of the picture, although Remmers currently stands in his way. Remmers filled in after Schwartz went down last season and was re-signed to a one-year deal reportedly worth up to $7 million - an amount that foreshadows a starting role. Niang faces an uphill climb but will have his fair shot to show the Chiefs that they were right to use a top-100 pick on him last year.Las Vegas Raiders - CornerbackContenders: Casey Hayward, Damon ArnetteThe Damon Arnette experiment didn't get off to a great start as the cornerback was limited to just nine games and seven starts in Year 1. The Raiders brought in a proven cornerback in Hayward in case Arnette can't turn it around in 2021. Hayward, who'll be 32 by the time the season kicks off, is likely far removed from his Pro Bowl form in 2016 and 2017. However, he's still an adequate starter. Both candidates have a lot on the line in the battle of youth against experience for the Raiders' second cornerback spot; Arnette to prove the team right for their first-round investment and Hayward to show he can still produce at his age.Los Angeles Chargers - Wide receiver John McCoy / Getty Images Sport / GettyContenders: Jalen Guyton, Tyron Johnson, Josh PalmerKeenan Allen and Mike Williams have the Chargers' top two spots at receiver locked down, but the No. 3 role is up for grabs. Guyton and Johnson each averaged at least 18 yards per catch last season, with the former finishing the year with more receptions and yards. They were expected to compete for a spot again in 2021, but Los Angeles made things more interesting by adding Palmer to the mix; the third-round rookie is the most well-rounded option of the three. Don't be surprised if offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi changes his rotation of pass-catchers weekly based on his opponents, but it'll be interesting to see who helps quarterback Justin Herbert the most.Miami Dolphins - SafetyContenders: Eric Rowe, Jevon Holland, Brandon JonesThe Dolphins have focused a lot of attention on the back end of their secondary in recent drafts, selecting Holland and Jones over the last two years. They're projected to be Miami's safety tandem of the future, but that day could come sooner than many expected. Holland may slide into a ball hawk role after Bobby McCain exited this offseason, while Jones may challenge Rowe for the other safety spot. Jones held his own in four starts last season, but Rowe's consistency has been unmatched over the last two campaigns. The two starting safety positions will come down to a combination of these three.New England Patriots - Quarterback Boston Globe / Boston Globe / GettyContenders: Cam Newton, Mac JonesFor a fan base that has become accustomed to great quarterback play, 2020 was a weird year in New England. Newton struggled mightily through the air and was benched multiple times but was brought back this offseason and is expected to start Week 1. However, his grip on the starting spot won't be as tight as last season after the Patriots drafted Jones in Round 1. Jones is coming off a tremendous final year at Alabama, and while he won't be throwing to his old Crimson Tide receiving group, he's a technical passer who can be counted on. While Newton has a big lead on the starting job, you can bet that every throw from each of these quarterbacks will be put under a microscope in the coming weeks.New York Jets - Running backContenders: La'Mical Perine, Tevin Coleman, Michael Carter, Ty JohnsonAny of these backs could be lining up behind Zach Wilson in Week 1. Coleman, a free-agent pickup, might have the inside edge due to his connection with new offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur. Both came over from the 49ers this offseason, and Coleman fits LaFleur's offense to a tee. However, Coleman has struggled with injuries in recent years, casting his reliability into doubt. As for the other backs, Johnson played well in 2020 and reportedly made a strong impression in minicamp, while Perine failed to leave his mark during his rookie campaign. Carter excelled at North Carolina and brings a nice blend of athleticism and playmaking ability, so he shouldn't be counted out.Pittsburgh Steelers - CenterContenders: B.J. Finney, Kendrick Green, J.C. HassenauerThe Steelers have a huge hole to fill at center following Maurkice Pouncey's retirement. Finney may have a slight edge coming into camp due to his experience and familiarity with Pittsburgh. Green is raw, but the rookie center's athleticism is unrivaled among his competition. It's hard to envision Hassenauer winning this one despite the fact he started four games for the Steelers last season. The winner will need to do two things very well: keep Ben Roethlisberger clean and open gaps for first-round running back Najee Harris.Tennessee Titans - Right tackleContenders: Kendall Lamm, Dillon Radunz, Ty SambrailoSecond-round pick Radunz represents the future, but the Titans are facing big questions when it comes to the present shape of the right tackle position. The rookie figures to be in the mix, but Tennessee also brought back Sambrailo and signed Lamm as a free agent. Sambrailo started five games at left tackle last season, showing he's got what it takes for the gig on the opposite side. Lamm is a journeyman, making 27 starts over the last six seasons, though 13 came in 2018. Radunz is waiting in the wings, but it's possible Lamm or Sambrailo holds him off.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The New Orleans Saints will be without their star pass-catcher to begin the 2021 campaign.Michael Thomas is expected to miss the start of the upcoming season after undergoing surgery in June to repair ligaments in his ankle, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.The return timetable is four months, so Thomas could be sidelined for at least the first month of the campaign, added Rapoport.The issue stems from an injury Thomas had last season. He suffered a high ankle sprain in Week 1 and was never fully healthy for the remainder of the year, finishing the campaign with just 40 receptions and 438 yards through seven regular-season appearances.Before the 2020 season, the 2019 Offensive Player of the Year had over 1,000 yards in each of his first four pro campaigns. He also topped the NFL in receptions in back-to-back years in 2018 and 2019 while setting a record with 149 catches during the latter campaign.The Saints have started looking for free-agent wide receivers as a result of Thomas' injury, sources told Mike Garafolo of NFL Network.Running back Alvin Kamara led New Orleans with 83 receptions and 756 yards last year. The Saints' next two receiving leaders in 2020 - wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders and tight end Jared Cook - signed elsewhere this offseason.New Orleans' current wideout depth chart features Tre'Quan Smith and Marquez Callaway, among other low-profile options.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The team with the first overall pick in the NFL draft has selected a quarterback in four straight years and six of the last seven. Lo and behold, the betting market expects another signal-caller to go No. 1 next spring.Here's the full list of odds to go first overall in 2022, as we get a glimpse at how the top prospects in college football stack up.Odds to go No. 1 in 2022 NFL DraftPlayerTeamOddsQB Sam HowellNorth Carolina+225QB Spencer RattlerOklahoma+300DE Kayvon ThibodeauxOregon+450QB Malik WillisLiberty+750QB Matt CorralOle Miss+1000QB JT DanielsGeorgia+1000QB Brock PurdyIowa State+1000QB Kedon SlovisUSC+1200CB Derek Stingley Jr.LSU+1200DE Demarvin LealTexas A&M+1600QB Emory JonesFlorida+1600QB Jayden DanielsArizona State+1800QB Grayson McCallCoastal Carolina+2000OT Evan NealAlabama+2000DE Drake JacksonUSC+2000QB D'Eriq KingMiami+2000S Kyle HamiltonNotre Dame+2500OT Zion NelsonMiami+2500G Kenyon GreenTexas A&M+3500CB Kaiir ElamFlorida+3500QB Carson StrongNevada+4000QB Phil JurkovecBoston College+4000Best betsKayvon Thibodeau (+450)What happens if the 2022 No. 1 overall pick goes to a team that's already set at quarterback? Thibodeaux is the safest option at +450.The Oregon defensive end is teeming with NFL-ready traits and is the best non-quarterback in the pool. Thibodeaux took home Defensive Player of the Year after totaling 18 sacks as a senior in high school, and he was named Pac-12 Freshman of the Year the following season in Eugene.The 6-foot-5 pass-rusher led the team in both tackles for loss (9.5) and sacks (3.5) for the second straight season in 2020. Considering the premium teams place on players who can get after the quarterback, Thibodeaux's a solid play at 4-1 or better.Malik Willis (+750)Trevor Lawrence was the obvious No. 1 pick last year - and he was penciled into that spot essentially once he touched down at Clemson - but think about the unheralded quarterbacks who burst onto the scene in recent years.Baker Mayfield was undersized and had plenty of competition in 2018 alongside Sam Darnold, Josh Rosen, and Saquon Barkley, before going first overall to the Cleveland Browns.Kyler Murray was thought to be a pipe dream at No. 1 after the Arizona Cardinals drafted Rosen at No. 10 the year prior. However, head coach Kliff Kingsbury and the front office notoriously swung for the fences and landed the Oklahoma product to inject life into the offense.And then there was Joe Burrow, who went full sicko mode in 2019. He won an SEC title, Heisman Trophy, and national championship en route to going No. 1.The player who stands to gain the most this season is Willis.He was nothing short of fabulous at Liberty last year, posting 20 passing touchdowns, another 14 on the ground, and more than 3,000 yards of offense in just 10 games. The Auburn transfer led the Flames to a top-25 rank, with signature wins over Virginia Tech and Coastal Carolina.The 2022 class is loaded with solid quarterbacks, but Willis offers the single most upside of anyone not named Rattler.

The Miami Dolphins are signing free-agent linebacker Shaquem Griffin to a one-year contract, a source told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.Griffin spent the last three seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, who selected him in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft.The 26-year-old, whose left hand was amputated when he was four years old, became an inspirational story nationwide during the draft process.Griffin appeared in 46 games for the Seahawks, mostly acting as a core special teams player.He should battle for a similar role in Miami during training camp, with linebacker Sam Eguavoen his most likely competition.Griffin's twin brother, Shaquill, plays cornerback for the Jacksonville Jaguars and is entering his fifth season.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Green Bay Packers and wide receiver Davante Adams have broken off long-term contract extension talks, sources told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.The sides reportedly have no current plans to resume negotiations, which began months ago.Green Bay's offers to date did not involve making Adams the NFL's highest-paid wideout, adds Rapoport.The 28-year-old has only one year left on a four-year, $58-million extension he signed in December 2017, according to Spotrac. DeAndre Hopkins of the Arizona Cardinals has the highest average annual salary among receivers after signing an extension for two years worth $54.5 million last season.Adams, a second-round pick in 2014, is coming off his most dominant NFL campaign after racking up 115 receptions for 1,374 yards and a league-high 18 touchdown catches through 14 appearances.The four-time Pro Bowler said last month he'll report to training camp even without a long-term extension.The Packers have also had contract issues with reigning MVP Aaron Rodgers, who reportedly declined a two-year offer this offseason that would make him the highest-paid quarterback in football. Rodgers has apparently told teammates he's not willing to return to Green Bay in 2021 under general manager Brian Gutekunst.Adams has publicly shown support for Rodgers amid the passer's contract issues, saying in May he'd "do some extra thinking" about his future if Rodgers leaves Green Bay.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The greatest team-building asset an NFL team can possess is a quarterback on a rookie contract. In the last three years, the Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills, and Cleveland Browns all capitalized on this by constructing championship-caliber rosters around the respective talents of Lamar Jackson, Josh Allen, and Baker Mayfield, at a time when those QBs consumed no more than 5% of the salary cap.That sort of extreme discount and cost certainty at the game's most valuable position can't last forever, though. All contracts for drafted rookies run for four years, with a team option for a fifth for every first-round pick. But negotiations toward a second, market-level deal can begin after Year 3, which is right where Jackson, Allen, and Mayfield are in their careers. This means the Ravens, Bills, and Browns are at an inflection point. Let's break it down.What makes this an inflection point?Quality quarterbacks remain scarce commodities, so it's crucial for teams to keep them once they get them. But that scarcity also drives up the price, and the top of the quarterback market has risen considerably in the last five years.In June 2016, Andrew Luck set the league standard with a deal worth $24.6 million in average annual value, or 15.8% of that year's salary cap of $155.27 million. By last summer, Patrick Mahomes landed a contract worth $45 million in AAV, or 22.7% of the 2020 cap of $198.2 million. Mahomes' deal is a bit of an outlier due to its 10-year length. But the Dallas Cowboys gave Dak Prescott $40 million in AAV this spring, which amounts to 21.9% of this season's reduced cap of $182.5 million and 19.2% of next year's projected ceiling of $208.2 million.You're losing me with all these numbers.Fair. Here's the point: The top of the QB market has jumped 63% since 2016, even though the cap can rise by no more than 34% in the same period, including next season. Holding onto a good signal-caller is very expensive, and it figures to keep getting costlier in the years ahead.Didn't all three teams trigger the fifth-year options on Jackson, Allen, and Mayfield?Yes.So doesn't that mean they're under contract for two more years?Yep, for 2021 and 2022. And all three teams have the franchise tag as an option beyond that.So what's the rush?The league's new lucrative broadcasting rights deals should kick in by 2023, which means the cap should begin to skyrocket around then. Also, Over the Cap projects the franchise tag running as high as $28.9 million next year, so there's no telling how pricey those tags will be by 2023. And remember, the franchise tag is what a team has to pay in cash and carry on its cap, fully guaranteed, with no way to massage that over multiple seasons. New contracts can help provide some cap flexibility, in large part by spreading cap dollars across the life of the deal.Which means it's probably better for the Ravens, Bills, and Browns to do a deal with their QBs sooner rather than later?Now you're picking up what I'm putting down. Diamond Images / Getty ImagesOK, but are Jackson, Allen, and Mayfield worth top-of-the-market money?That's a trickier question, but they're at or close to that range, given recent history and what all three have achieved. From when Luck signed in 2016 through April 2019, Derek Carr, Matthew Stafford, Jimmy Garoppolo, Kirk Cousins, Matt Ryan, Aaron Rodgers, and Russell Wilson have all reset the AAV market, which by then topped out at $35 million a year. Around the same time, Ben Roethlisberger, Carson Wentz, Jared Goff, and another Cousins deal all came in between $32 million and $34 million annually. You have to remember that each QB's value is dictated by the supply of good-to-great QBs, along with what his current team is willing to pay to keep him.Right, but ...Let's quickly go over Jackson, Allen, and Mayfield's credentials.

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger said Thursday that his "arm feels really, really good" following the team's first practice of training camp.Roethlisberger spent last offseason working back from season-ending elbow surgery, which he admitted led to issues with his arm strength as the campaign wore on."This time last year, I had thrown thousands of footballs trying to get ready for this," Roethlisberger said, according to ESPN's Brooke Pryor. "This year, this was the first time I've thrown a ball since minicamp, other than throwing to my son in the backyard. It just feels more normal of an offseason."The signal-caller added that he feels "fresher" than he did this time last year.Roethlisberger could be entering the final season of his storied career. The 39-year-old took a $5-million pay cut to return for the final year of his current contract after Pittsburgh expressed concern about the quarterback's then-NFL-high cap hit of $41.25 million.He performed well over the first half of last season, throwing 2,267 yards and 22 touchdowns against four interceptions in the opening nine games of the year.However, the veteran appeared to struggle physically down the stretch. Roethlisberger had 15 touchdowns and 10 interceptions during the last seven games, with four of the turnovers coming during Pittsburgh's home playoff loss to the Cleveland Browns.In order to revitalize the offense, Pittsburgh promoted quarterbacks coach Matt Canada to offensive coordinator.Canada will cater more heavily to Roethlisberger's vision, saying recently that he will do "what Ben wants to do and how Ben wants to do it."However, Roethlisberger admitted he's still coming to grips with the team's new system in camp."If you notice, I'm looking at the wristband quite a bit," Roethlisberger said. "We all are. All of the quarterbacks are trying to look at it and figure it out."New isn't always bad, new is new."Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley will start training camp on the physically unable to perform list, the team announced Thursday.Barkley missed most of the 2020 season after tearing his ACL in September. The 24-year-old's rehab was further complicated by damage to his MCL and meniscus.When asked Monday about his availability for training camp, the running back said he's "taking it day by day" and is "just listening" to his body.Giants veterans are scheduled to report on Tuesday, and practice starts the following day.Players on the PUP list can be activated at any time during training camp. When rosters are cut to 53, players must be either activated or placed on the reserve/PUP list, which requires them to miss the first six weeks of the season.Barkley burst onto the NFL scene after the Giants selected him second overall in 2018. He racked up 1,307 yards and 11 touchdowns to win Offensive Rookie of the Year before producing another 1,000-yard campaign in 2019.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The NFL continues to push for its players to get vaccinated against COVID-19.Any game that can't be rescheduled this season due to a COVID-19 outbreak among unvaccinated players on one of the competing teams will result in a forfeit by the club responsible for the outbreak, the league announced, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.Additionally, all players on both teams involved in a forfeited game won't be paid their salary for that week, adds Pelissero."Every club is obligated under the constitution and bylaws to have its team ready to play at the scheduled time and place," the NFL said. "A failure to do so is deemed conduct detrimental. There is no right to postpone a game.""If a club cannot play due to a COVID spike in vaccinated individuals, we will attempt to minimize the competitive and economic burden on both participating teams," the league added.The NFL already eased restrictions this season for fully vaccinated players by eliminating daily testing for them. Other changes made for fully vaccinated players include no quarantine following exposure to someone who tests positive and no required physical distancing in team facilities.Additionally, unvaccinated players will still be prohibited from gathering outside of the club facility unless they receive NFL and union approval.More than 78% of players across the league have had at least one dose of the vaccine and 14 teams have topped the 85% threshold set by the NFL, according to Judy Battista of NFL.com.Multiple players have publicly stated they're against taking the COVID-19 vaccine. Buffalo Bills wide receiver Cole Beasley recently shared a series of tweets criticizing the NFLPA's protocols.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Green Bay Packers could begin training camp on July 28 without both their star quarterback and most reliable blocker.While the Aaron Rodgers saga continues to play out, left tackle David Bakhtiari also remains unsure if he’ll be cleared for the opener after suffering a torn ACL during a New Year’s Eve practice."This is my first time going through this, so I’m just going to attack every day, try to hit every benchmark I can," Bakhtiari said, according to the Wisconsin State Journal's Jason Wilde."And once 'Doc' (team physician Dr. Patrick McKenzie) can check me off, I can check myself, and I can go out there and not only perform and protect myself but perform at the level that the Packers need me to, I think that’s where you’ll see me return, on that date."The three-time Pro Bowler has started all 118 games of his career since entering the league in 2013.The 29-year-old signed a four-year, $92 million contract extension last November, becoming the NFL’s highest-paid offensive lineman.Bakhtiari’s presence was sorely missed in the Packers' loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFC Championship Game, with the team surrendering five sacks to the eventual Super Bowl LV champions.Green Bay opens the 2021 regular season against the New Orleans Saints on Sept. 12.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Tom Brady is still baffled by the fact so many teams passed on him when he was a free agent in 2020.The Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback recently went viral for his reaction to being snubbed by a mystery team."You're sticking with that motherf-----? Are you serious?" he said of his thoughts to the news.But Brady still has more to say on the issue."I think what you realize is that there's not as many smart people as you think. It's just the reality," he told SiriusXM.He added: "It'd be a no-brainer if you said, 'Hey, you've got a chance to get Wayne Gretzky on your team,' or, 'You get a chance to have Michael Jordan on your team.'"However, the seven-time Super Bowl champion still won't name the teams to which he's referring."There's private things for me that are going to remain motivational for me. They know who they are," he said."In my mind, I'm kind of thinking, 'OK, let me go show those teams what they're missing. And at the same time, let me go prove to the team that did bet on me, and the team that really showed that they really wanted me and committed to me, that I'm not going to let them down,'" he added.Several teams were linked to Brady after his departure from the New England Patriots, including the Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Chargers, Tennessee Titans, Indianapolis Colts, and San Francisco 49ers. The Raiders and Chargers were considered by many to be the front-runners.Some around the NFL reportedly believed the Raiders could've been the team that slighted Brady in free agency, with quarterback Derek Carr being the "motherf-----" in question.However, Carr answered those rumors, saying: "From what I know, it wasn't me."Brady helped completely turn around the Buccaneers last year. Tampa Bay made the postseason for the first time since 2007 en route to its second Super Bowl title.Additionally, the 43-year-old finished last season with 4,633 yards and 40 touchdowns - his best statistical campaign since 2015 - despite reportedly playing the entire year with a torn MCL.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

As training camps open, speculation begins about which NFL head coaches face the most pressure to perform in 2021. A strong early-season showing is imperative for these hot-seat candidates:Mike Zimmer, VikingsThe players love him, and no one can question his track record on defense, but it's fair to wonder how far Zimmer can take these Vikings. Minnesota has alternated between missing and making the postseason throughout his seven campaigns and has advanced beyond the divisional round just once. Zimmer's offensive conservatism has seemingly capped the club's ceiling, leaving little margin for error in other phases of the game. A second consecutive poor start could spell the end of Zimmer's time in Minneapolis.Matt Nagy, BearsAfter barely surviving 2020, Nagy is back under the microscope to begin 2021. The former NFL Coach of the Year has gotten away with pinning the Bears' previous disappointments on poor quarterback play - perhaps justifiably - but Justin Fields' presence will eliminate that excuse this year. Nagy made the playoffs twice in his first three seasons, but everyone knows Chicago's defense did the heavy lifting - it's time he and his offense shoulder their fair share of the load.Zac Taylor, BengalsThe Bengals don't necessarily need to make the postseason to have a productive campaign, but they've got to show signs of life. Cincinnati is a brutal 6-25-1 in two seasons with Taylor, who's produced a pair of bottom-7 offenses after being billed as one of Sean McVay's brightest understudies. With Joe Burrow expected to be ready for Week 1 and a strong cast of skill players around him, the Bengals must look competitive for the first time in the Taylor era.Kliff Kingsbury, CardinalsKingsbury has been hailed as an offensive mastermind, but the Cardinals have been underachieving more than overachieving since he arrived in 2019. Kingsbury was supposed to unleash Kyler Murray in a way that would revolutionize the NFL, yet the former No. 1 overall pick produced a mixed bag of results in his first two years. With only two winning records in eight seasons as a head coach dating back to his time at Texas Tech, the pressure is on Kingsbury to prove himself in 2021.Mike McCarthy, CowboysMcCarthy produced a dud in Year 1, and the scrutiny will pick up in Year 2. Not only do the Cowboys have Dak Prescott returning from an injury that worsened McCarthy's already bad debut campaign, but they'll also be featured on HBO's "Hard Knocks," meaning McCarthy will be on display for the world to evaluate. While Jerry Jones is more patient than his reputation as an impulsive decision-maker suggests, the owner can't risk letting McCarthy waste Prescott's prime like he allowed Jason Garrett to do with Tony Romo.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

With fantasy draft season underway, theScore has the award-winning rankings and expert advice you need to dominate your league. Make sure to check back for daily updates right up until the regular season kicks off.You can also subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section. theScore's Justin Boone was the winner of 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 rankings for every position heading into 2021.QBRBWRTE1. Mahomes1. McCaffrey1. Hill1. Kelce2. Allen2. Cook2. Diggs2. Waller3. Murray3. Kamara3. Adams3. KittleMoreMoreMoreMoreHalf PPR

Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Vince Williams announced his retirement Wednesday after eight NFL seasons."Vince Williams notified us today that he will retire from the game of football," said Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert. "We respect his decision and want to thank him for his time with us as he consistently showed great character and leadership in addition to his contributions on the field. We wish Vince and his family all the best."Williams spent his entire career in Pittsburgh after being drafted in the sixth round in 2013.Pittsburgh released Williams in March in a cap-related move but re-signed him the following month after he turned down offers from other teams.The 31-year-old was expected to battle with Robert Spillane for the right to start alongside Devin Bush. With Williams gone, Ulysees Gilbert and Marcus Allen will likely take on larger roles this season.Williams totaled 444 tackles, 20.5 sacks, and two interceptions in 121 regular-season games (69 starts).Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Dallas Cowboys have been criticized by franchise legend Michael Irvin for failing to reach the 85% COVID-19 vaccine threshold set by the NFL this year. However, owner Jerry Jones is comfortable with where his team stands.Jones says virtually the entire coaching staff is already vaccinated and most players have already committed to taking their shots, with only a handful still being non-committal."We have as many challenges to come to a camp as I've ever experienced in any time that I've been with the Cowboys," Jones said Wednesday, according to Kevin Patra of NFL.com. "We are under protocol. We know how to operate under protocol.He added: "From the standpoint of the players, we have what I call 'in the pipeline.' That's committed but at some various stage of whether they need two vaccine shots and they have one or whether they're waiting a period of time so that they can have their vaccine and go through the protocol. Out of our 90 players here, we have a handful that, in my mind, have still to commit to this. A handful, and a hand is five. Several, in my mind, in that finger of five, are on their way to potentially having their vaccine ... We're very satisfied at where the Dallas Cowboys are as far as looking at our competition in the next few weeks ahead."The NFL and players' association agreed in May to ease health and safety guidelines for clubs that top the 85% threshold. Vaccinated players won't be required to wear masks this season and won't be tested as often as unvaccinated players.Jones also addressed Irvin's comments."I thought it was an outstanding message," Jones said. "Again, just to remind us, I don't know that I've ever talked to a member of those teams that won those three Super Bowls that thought we could've done it without Michael Irvin and what he brought to the locker room and to the practice field. So, that was influential."The Cowboys, who reported for training camp Wednesday, will kick off this year's preseason on Aug. 5 against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Hall of Fame game.Copyright © 2021 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.Welcome to theScore Fantasy Football Podcast, hosted by Justin Boone.Find the show on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, and Anchor.In this episode, Ian Hartitz of Pro Football Focus joins Boone to discuss the latest news and the biggest training camp storylines you need to follow.

Darius Leonard is apparently the next linebacker in line to ink a lucrative contract extension.The Indianapolis Colts and the All-Pro defender are working on a new deal that is expected to keep Leonard around for four more seasons and pay him over $19 million annually, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.The news comes just hours after the San Francisco 49ers reportedly handed linebacker Fred Warner a five-year, $95-million extension. Warner's $19-million average annual salary would set a new record at the position.Leonard praised Warner for the new contract on social media.

There's plenty of anticipation ahead of the 2021 season for a monster Week 4 matchup between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New England Patriots.Oct. 3 will mark the first time in Tom Brady's career that he'll enter the visitor's locker room at Gillette Stadium.In an interview with Jim Gray for SiriusXM Mad Dog Sports Radio, the future Hall of Famer acknowledged he's likely returning to New England for the "last time probably in my career," according to Karen Guregian of the Boston Herald."I've got a lot of familiarity playing in the stadium," Brady added. "You know, we've got to first get to training camp and see where we’re going to be and then get through the first three weeks of the year, but I’m sure it'll be a great opportunity for me to go back to a place I know as well as anyone. It’ll be a great day for football.""There's a lot to happen between now and then, and obviously I know the challenge of beating a great team like that, a great organization, great players, so many friends that are still on the team that still are my brothers,” he said. "Unfortunately, we’re going to be on different sides of the stadium this time around."The 43-year-old spent 20 seasons with the Patriots. The three-time MVP won six Super Bowl titles while rewriting virtually all of the franchise's passing records.After the NFL released its regular-season schedule, Brady said the matchup will be "like when your high school friends meet your college friends."While the prime-time showdown pits Brady against former head coach Bill Belichick, the passer appears to be just as intrigued to see how his current team continues to improve after winning Super Bowl LV last season"I'm not naive to the fact there’s some marquee games you always look at over the course of the season, a matchup of places guys have been versus where they’re at now," said the seven-time Super Bowl winner."Naturally, there’s just more buildup, but at the end of the day, it’s going to be a game where we’re going to prepare like we’ve been preparing," he continued. "Our team at the Bucs has done some really cool things over the course of last season, that I really want to see, how committed we are to improving those processes."I thought we got really good toward the latter end of the season, and I thought we were still an ascending football team."Copyright © 2021 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.No fantasy manager's draft plan should rigidly classify any player as a "must-have," but it's wise to enter yours with a shortlist of names you hope to add to your team. Below are seven players who will be key to winning a fantasy title this season.You shouldn't expect to get them all - that's probably impossible - but you'll greatly increase your odds of achieving fantasy glory this season if you build your draft around selecting at least a few of the players on this list.More in this series

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 Seahawks won the NFC West last year at +225, with their 12 regular-season wins marking the most since the 2014 season.Seattle's expected to flirt with double-digit wins in the NFL's toughest division this fall. Will the franchise get there or trickle back in 2021?Here's our third NFC West preview of the offseason.2021 Seahawks win totalOver: 10 (+115)

Los Angeles Rams running back Cam Akers suffered a torn Achilles on Tuesday and is expected to miss the entire season, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.Akers, 22, led the Rams in carries (145) and rushing yards (625) last year as a rookie and was expected to be a big part of the team's offense this season. He added two touchdowns on the ground in 2020.Additionally, the second-round pick rushed for over 200 yards and scored twice in two playoff games."You just feel so bad for him because he's doing everything right. He's working hard," Rams head coach Sean McVay told ESPN's Max Kellerman."It's a bummer but you put your arm around him," he added. "You support him."The Rams' running back depth chart features Darrell Henderson, who set career highs with 624 yards (4.5 per carry) and five rushing touchdowns in 2020.Los Angeles doesn't have any immediate plans to sign another running back."We've got some young backs on our roster that I'm intrigued about seeing how they handle this opportunity," McVay said. "I don't know that the veteran route is something that we'd rule out but it's not something we're immediately looking to address right now."The Rams' other options include Raymond Calais, Xavier Jones, and seventh-round rookie Jake Funk.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Kansas City Chiefs are re-signing defensive end Alex Okafor to a one-year deal, a source told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.Okafor spent the previous two seasons in Kansas City, appearing in 21 regular-season games. He racked up 38 tackles, eight sacks, and two forced fumbles over that span.The news comes hours after the Pittsburgh Steelers signed pass-rusher Melvin Ingram, who had recently visited with the Chiefs.Okafor, 30, previously signed with Kansas City for three years prior to the 2019 season, but the team restructured the contract a year later, which made him a free agent in 2021.The reigning AFC champions have been looking to add edge rushers this offseason after ranking 19th in sacks with 32 in 2020. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo recently said the Chiefs plan to use two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Chris Jones as an outside pass-rusher at times in 2021.Kansas City star defensive end Frank Clark was charged with possession of an assault weapon earlier this month. The two-time Pro Bowler could face up to three years in prison.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New York Jets assistant coach Greg Knapp is in critical condition following a bicycle accident this past weekend, according to Mike Klis of 9News.The Jets passing-game specialist was hospitalized after a motorist hit him while he was riding in California. Knapp suffered serious injuries as a result of the collision.The 58-year-old has worked in the NFL as an assistant since 1997, spending time with the Denver Broncos and Las Vegas Raiders, among other clubs.He recently joined Robert Saleh’s Jets staff in January after logging three seasons as the quarterback coach for the Atlanta Falcons.The Knapp family released a statement through the team on Tuesday highlighting his impact as not only a coach, but also as a father and husband.Saleh asked fans to keep the coordinator in their prayers as he attempts to recover from a "horrific accident."

The Pittsburgh Steelers signed free agent Melvin Ingram on Monday, the pass-rusher told NFL reporter Josina Anderson.Pittsburgh announced the signing as a one-year deal on Tuesday."It's definitely a dope organization and environment, so I definitely feel like it's the place for me," said Ingram. "I met with coach (Mike) Tomlin. You can tell he's very involved and a players' coach. That's what stood out to me."He wants to win and that is what I am on. My role is my role. He just told me to come in and be me. Everyone knows how I play."The 32-year-old spent the first nine years of his career with the Los Angeles Chargers. He played in seven contests during the 2020 season and missed most of the campaign due to a knee injury. It was his first career season when he didn't record a sack.Prior to his injury, Ingram recorded seven-plus sacks in five consecutive campaigns from 2015 to 2019.The Steelers needed to upgrade their pass rush after edge rusher Bud Dupree signed with the Tennessee Titans. He tallied 39.5 sacks over six campaigns in Pittsburgh.Ingram, who's a three-time Pro Bowler, will provide another presence alongside All-Pro TJ Watt.Watt led the NFL with 15 sacks and 23 tackles for a loss in 2020. He's also logged three straight seasons with double-digit sacks.Ingram joins Cassius Marsh, Alex Highsmith, and rookie Quincy Roche among the team's current edge rushers.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers declined a two-year contract extension this offseason that would have made him the highest-paid player in football, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.The extension would have kept the reigning NFL MVP in Green Bay for the next five seasons.The strained relationship between Rodgers and the Packers front office continues to dominate headlines this offseason.Rodgers said earlier this month he would determine his plans for the 2021 season "in a couple weeks," and the star passer hasn't yet disclosed whether he'll be with the team when it opens training camp on July 28.The 37-year-old is set to earn $21.5 million in 2021 after signing a four-year, $134-million extension with the Packers in 2018.Rodgers has spent 16 seasons with the Packers. He's won three league MVP awards and a Super Bowl title.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Bears are looking for a get-right year in 2021. Does their franchise-altering move in the recent draft pay off and spring them into the playoffs, or will Chicago trudge to its third straight .500-or-worse campaign?Let's dive into the club's 2021 win total and make our pick.Bears 2021 win totalOver: 7.5 (-110)

Ryan Fitzpatrick played for eight different teams across 16 years in the NFL before joining the Washington Football Team this offseason, but the quarterback believes 2021 might be the most promising opportunity of his career."This is the best situation I've ever been in or the best situation that I've ever gone into as the guy," Fitzpatrick said on the ESPN Daily podcast. "I signed to be the starter in Houston, I signed to be the starter in Miami, so this is now the third team that I've signed to come in and be the starter for."I just feel like the way that I'm playing the last four years, kind of the progression of my career, it doesn't really make a whole lot of sense that 17 years in, physically, I feel great; mentally, emotionally, I'm in the right spot. I just think I am set up for success this year and really looking forward to it."Washington won the NFC East last season with a 7-9 record.The team fielded a playoff-caliber defense that ranked fourth in points allowed per game (20.6) and seventh in turnovers created (23).However, Washington's passing attack was among the worst in the league, with Dwayne Haskins, Kyle Allen, and Alex Smith all starting multiple contests over the campaign.The NFC East club finished 25th in passing yards per game (216.6), 28th in passing touchdowns (16), and 29th in passing yards per attempt (6.3).Fitzpatrick provides Washington with short-team stability at the quarterback position after inking a one-year, $10-million deal in March.The 38-year-old played some of the best football of his career during 20 starts (plus four appearances) for the Miami Dolphins over the last two seasons.He finished eighth in QBR in 2019 as Miami's full-time starter and fifth in 2020 while splitting time with then-rookie Tua Tagovailoa.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New England Patriots cornerback Stephon Gilmore is open to taking either a multi-year extension or a one-year bump in salary to address his current contract's issues, NFL Network's Michael Giardi reports.However, the two sides haven't progressed toward an agreement recently, according to MMQB's Albert Breer.Gilmore's entering the final year of his deal and is due to earn $7.74 million, which ranks 26th among cornerbacks, per Over The Cap.The veteran didn't participate in New England's offseason program or mandatory minicamp. Gilmore played in 11 games in 2020 before having season-ending knee surgery in late December. He’s currently still rehabbing from the injury.After Gilmore won Defensive Player of the Year in 2019, the Patriots moved $4.5 million of his 2021 base salary into 2020 to appease him.New England will begin training camp on July 27. Players holding out of camp will be fined $50,000 per day, and teams can no longer waive the fines under the new collective bargaining agreement.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

ESPN is partnering with Peyton Manning and his Omaha Productions to create the Monday Night Football "MegaCast," the company announced Monday.Peyton will team up with younger brother Eli Manning on a new broadcast for 10 games each season over three campaigns beginning in 2021."This partnership with ESPN and The Walt Disney Company reflects an ongoing, shared commitment to offering fans fun, innovative content," said Peyton.The show will include guests and celebrity appearances as the brothers broadcast remotely. It will air on ESPN2, with potential distribution across other Disney properties."Offering multiple Monday Night Football viewing options for the next three seasons continues our innovation efforts and provides additional value for our fans," said the chairman of ESPN and Sports Content Jimmy Pitaro."Peyton and Eli will bring a different approach, delving into conversation about broader, big-picture topics while also honing in on the game, much like fans do when watching with their family and friends," he added.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Saquon Barkley still isn't ready to comment on his availability ahead of New York Giants training camp."I don't know. We'll see," the running back said, according to ESPN's Jordan Raanan. "Taking it day by day. Just listening to my body. Whenever I'm able to get out there, just make sure I'm 110%. Not just for ... my well-being, but just so I go out there and compete at a high level and show the world who Saquon is."Barkley missed most of the 2020 season after suffering a torn ACL in September. The former Pro Bowler also sustained damage to his MCL and meniscus. Barkley says he's doing "pretty good" in his rehab leading up to training camp at the end of the month.The 2018 Offensive Rookie of the Year is not expected to be a full go when camp begins, a source told ESPN last month.The 24-year-old led the league with 2,208 scrimmage yards and 15 total touchdowns in his debut year. Barkley followed that up with his second 1,000-yard rushing season, totalling 1,441 scrimmage yards and eight scores in his sophomore campaign.During the team's minicamp in June, head coach Joe Judge said the franchise would not rush the star tailback onto the field.As for Barkley, he thinks taking it slow is just fine. "When it comes to rehab, rehab is never a straight line. Just play that by ear. Listen to your body, and whatever your body is telling you, go with that."The Giants open camp on July 27 as they prepare for their season-opening contest against the Denver Broncos on Sept. 12.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Hall of Fame wide receiver Michael Irvin is disappointed that the Dallas Cowboys have yet to reach the 85% COVID-19 vaccine threshold ahead of training camp."It should upset them," Irvin said of the Cowboys' vaccination rate, according to ESPN's Todd Archer. "Dude, you're not thinking right. You're not thinking right. Whatever you got, I don't give a damn. ... Nothing else can be more important."Irvin said the team's vaccination rate reflects poorly on its commitment to a Super Bowl pursuit."Nothing else is more important," he said. "And not being one of the (teams to reach 85%) says there's other things to a great number of people on this team that are more important than winning championships, and that makes me worried."The NFL and National Football League Players Association agreed in May to relaxed health and safety measures for teams with 85% COVID-19 vaccination rates. Under the new rules, vaccinated players aren't required to wear masks, face less frequent COVID-19 tests, and are allowed to eat meals with other vaccinated teammates.Unvaccinated players must wear masks around team facilities and face travel restrictions and daily testing.The Cowboys have not reached the threshold to be eligible for relaxed protocols, though the exact percentage of Dallas players vaccinated remains unknown.Irvin focused his message on the Cowboys but believes it applies to every team that hasn't reached 85% vaccinations."If you're not one of them teams (at the threshold), are you really thinking about winning a championship?" he said.The Cowboys legend added that players who opt not to get vaccinated could risk losing their roster spots."Let's go through this because this could be a two-week healthy dude missing games, and in this league, this ain't the NBA. In this league, that could be it for you," he said. "The right person misses two weeks, that's it. Your ass is out."Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Robert Saleh is looking forward to his head coaching debut with the New York Jets."Everything’s been awesome," Saleh said in an interview with Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer. "Call it the greatest honeymoon in the world, if you want. It’s been great. But I’m genuinely excited for adversity. Because a lot of different things are going to pop up."He added: "I think that's when teams have their greatest amount of growth - it's through adversity. And so with training camp, that's what I'm most excited for. I wanna see how people respond."Saleh, 42, takes over a franchise that finished no higher than third in the AFC East over the past five seasons. He previously spent four years in San Francisco as a defensive coordinator and noted how the Niners used their struggles from the 2018 season to make a Super Bowl run in 2019."I really believe it stemmed from 2018, it stemmed from all that adversity, it stemmed from guys knowing that they’re capable of so much more," he said.The first-year coach is now tasked with replicating that feat in the Big Apple. The Jets made a series of changes, including firing former coach Adam Gase after posting a 9-23 record with the franchise.Rookie quarterback Zach Wilson is projected to start after the club traded Sam Darnold to the Carolina Panthers this offseason. The Jets also upgraded their pass rush by signing Carl Lawson in free agency.Copyright © 2021 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.Welcome to theScore Fantasy Football Podcast, hosted by Justin Boone.Find the show on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, and Anchor.In this episode, Adam Murfet of 5-Yard Rush joins Boone to discuss the most notable position battles that need to be monitored during training camp.

Adrian Peterson is eager for an opportunity to play in his 15th NFL campaign, and the running back is confident he'll get one with training camp on the horizon."The training is going well, and I'm going to control the things that I can control right now, and, when that time comes, somebody will give me a call," Peterson said Thursday, according to Sports Talk 790's Aaron Wilson."That's all I'm asking for. My body feels good. I came out healthy from last season. My body feels strong. I still feel young. I still feel good. I'm ready to play ball."Peterson remains a free agent after spending last year with the Detroit Lions.The 36-year-old saw his production dip to 604 yards and seven touchdowns in 2020 after racking up 1,940 yards and 12 scores in the two years prior with the Washington Football Team.Peterson's Hall of Fame-caliber resume includes an MVP trophy, seven Pro Bowl selections, and an Offensive Player of the Year award. However, the veteran still lacks a Super Bowl ring and is seemingly hoping to land with a club capable of competing for a title."Yeah, I've been chasing it for a long time," Peterson said. "It would be nice to finally get one."The tailback also has his sights on breaking into the top four of the all-time rushing list. Peterson needs just 450 yards to move past Barry Sanders' career mark of 15,269 yards.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

President Joe Biden is expected to celebrate the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Super Bowl title during the team's White House visit Tuesday, according to Darlene Superville of the Associated Press.White House officials haven't formally announced the event.The Buccaneers won Super Bowl LV with a dominating 31-9 win over the Kansas City Chiefs.The Biden administration has attempted to be more consistent in upholding the tradition of inviting championship sports franchises to the White House following Donald Trump's presidency.Biden recently hosted the World Series-winning Los Angeles Dodgers this month at the White House.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Longtime wide receiver Ted Ginn Jr. announced his retirement Friday after 14 NFL seasons."It was a hard decision, but it was a decision that had to be made," Ginn said, according to Tyler Carey of WKYC. "I'm respectfully leaving the game the right way, the way I wanted to."Ginn, 36, entered the NFL as the Miami Dolphins' ninth overall pick in 2007. He spent his first three years in Miami before moving on to play for several other clubs.The speedster, who also contributed as a return specialist, enjoyed his best campaigns with the Carolina Panthers (2013, 2015-16) and New Orleans Saints (2017-19). He also played for the San Francisco 49ers (2010-12), Arizona Cardinals (2014), and Chicago Bears (2020).The Ohio State product, who notched just three receptions over six appearances last season, hangs up his cleats with 412 career catches for 5,742 yards and 33 touchdown grabs. Additionally, he amassed seven scores as a kick returner.Ginn produced a remarkable career with the Buckeyes before joining the NFL, earning three first-team All-American selections.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Free-agent cornerback Richard Sherman released a statement Friday following his arrest for attempting to force his way into his in-laws' residence in Seattle."I am deeply remorseful for my actions on Tuesday night," Sherman wrote on Instagram. "I behaved in a manner I am not proud of. I have been dealing with some personal challenges over the last several months, but that is not an excuse for how I acted."The importance of mental and emotional health is extremely real and I vow to get the help I need. I appreciate all of the people who have reached out in support of me and my family, including our community here in Seattle. I am grateful to have such an amazing wife, family, and support system to lean on in this time."Sherman was released from jail Thursday without bail.The 33-year-old was booked Wednesday on a burglary domestic violence felony charge, which was later downgraded to a misdemeanor of criminal trespass with a domestic violence designation.He's also charged with malicious mischief in the third degree, resisting arrest, driving while under the influence, and reckless endangerment of roadway workers.Sherman entered not-guilty pleas for all five charges at his arraignment Friday, according to ESPN's Brady Henderson. His next court date is a pre-trial hearing scheduled for Aug. 13.The cornerback spent the last three seasons with the San Francisco 49ers but has been without a team since his contract expired at the conclusion of the 2020 campaign.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Los Angeles Rams pushed all of their chips to the middle of the table this offseason.Head coach Sean McVay won the NFC West in his first two years, with a Super Bowl appearance coming in the 2018 campaign. But the Rams recorded their lowest point total last season of McVay's four years on the sideline, causing the front office to pull the plug on Jared Goff and trade for Detroit Lions veteran Matthew Stafford.Expectations are once again high. Will Stafford prove to be a worthy acquisition or crumble under the pressure in Year 1?Let's dive into the Rams' outlook this fall.Rams' 2021 win totalOver: 10.5 (+120)

New Orleans Saints defensive tackle David Onyemata has been suspended six games without pay for violating the NFL's policy on performance-enhancing substances, the league announced Friday.Onyemata will be eligible to return to the active roster Oct. 26. He'll be able to participate in the preseason.The 28-year-old defensive lineman said earlier Friday on Instagram that he was aware of the incoming suspension."While I was certainly surprised and disappointed with this news, I am responsible for what I put in my body," Onyemata wrote. "As I have never knowingly taken anything that could cause a positive test, we are currently in the process of testing the supplements I was taking at the time of the test."Regardless, I am committed to being more aware of any medication and dietary supplements that may contain substances banned by the NFL."Onyemata has started 30 games over the last two seasons. He's coming off a career-high 6.5 sacks in 2020.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.