Free-agent defensive tackle Gerald McCoy is itching to get back in the NFL but isn't generating much interest after missing the 2020 season with a quad injury."I understand that I've been injured, and I honestly believe the lack of interest in me being on a team right now is because of my injury," McCoy told Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times. "I haven't played in a year, and I'm 33 years old. But man, when I still tell you I can play this game at a high level, I know I can."I just need that one team. And it will happen. I'm not saying I'm desperate. I just need that one team that will make that decision, and I believe they'll get more than they bargained for, and I'm ready to show that."McCoy last played for the Carolina Panthers in 2019, registering 37 tackles and five sacks. The lineman signed a three-year contract worth over $18 million with the Dallas Cowboys in 2020, but the team released him before the season after he suffered the quad injury in training camp.The Oklahoma product earned six consecutive Pro Bowl selections with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2012-17 when he was one of the top players in the league at his position."For me, I just love this game so much, it's still fun to me," McCoy said. "I love competing. I just know what my mindset was going into last season, and I don't want an injury or what the NFL deems 'age' to be a derailment and finish like that."I know I can still be an asset to a team, whether it's sparingly, as a starter, in the locker room, whatever it is. In training camp, a mentor to the young kids. I just know I have so much more to give this game, even if for a short period of time."McCoy ranks third in Buccaneers history with 54.5 career sacks, behind only Hall of Famer Warren Sapp and Simeon Rice.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Wide receiver Julian Edelman, who's been hindered by knee issues, announced his retirement Monday after 12 seasons and three Super Bowl titles with the New England Patriots.The 34-year-old is reportedly battling a chronic condition that hasn't improved much since he underwent surgery in October 2020. New England terminated his contract with a failed physical designation, making him eligible to collect up to $2 million via injury protection benefit, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.Edelman broke into the league as a seventh-round pick in 2009, earning his first roster spot as a wide receiver and kick returner despite playing quarterback at Kent State.The slot artist finishes his career as the fourth-leading receiver in Patriots history with 6,822 career yards after providing numerous signature moments for the franchise - particularly in the playoffs, where his 1,442 receiving yards rank second in NFL history behind Jerry Rice."By any measure of what constitutes an elite NFL career – wins, championships, production – Julian has it all," Patriots head coach Bill Belichick said in a statement. "Few players can match Julian's achievements, period, but considering his professional trajectory and longevity, the group is even more select. It is historic. This is a tribute to his legendary competitiveness, mental and physical toughness, and will to excel."Day in and day out, Julian was always the same: All out. Then, in the biggest games and moments, with championships at stake, he reached even greater heights and delivered some of his best, most thrilling performances."For all Julian did for our team, what I may appreciate the most is he was the quintessential throwback player. He could, and did, do everything – catch, run, throw, block, return, cover, and tackle – all with an edge and attitude that would not allow him to fail under any circumstance. Julian Edelman is the ultimate competitor, and it was a privilege to coach him."Edelman captured his first title at Super Bowl XLIX, reeling in nine receptions, including the go-ahead touchdown in New England's 28-24 victory over the Seattle Seahawks.Two years later, Edelman made a miraculous catch against the Atlanta Falcons late in the fourth quarter of Super Bowl LI. The longtime Patriot's heroics helped New England drive the field, tie the game, and force overtime, where the Patriots prevailed after trailing by as many as 25 points in the third quarter.Edelman earned MVP honors in Super Bowl LIII two years after that, catching 10 passes from Tom Brady for 141 yards in New England's 13-3 victory over the Los Angeles Rams. The California native became the first wide receiver named Super Bowl MVP since Santonio Holmes a decade earlier.The veteran wideout was limited to six appearances in 2020. The Pats revamped their receiving core in free agency, signing wide receivers Nelson Agholor from the Las Vegas Raiders and Kendrick Bourne from the San Francisco 49ers, as well as tight ends Jonnu Smith from the Tennessee Titans and Hunter Henry from the Los Angeles Chargers.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are signing former Cincinnati Bengals running back Giovani Bernard to a one-year deal, a source told Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.Tom Brady and head coach Bruce Arians reportedly recruited Bernard after Cincinnati released him last week.The veteran runner spent his first eight NFL seasons with the Bengals, who drafted him in the second round in 2013.The North Carolina product is a proven pass-catching running back and adds versatility to the reigning Super Bowl champions. He's racked up at least 30 receptions in every season since entering the league.Bernard rushed for 416 yards (3.4 per carry) and three touchdowns through 16 appearances in 2020. The 29-year-old also added 355 yards and three scores on 47 receptions.Tampa Bay's running back depth chart is highlighted by Ronald Jones and Leonard Fournette.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Former Kansas City Chiefs assistant coach Britt Reid, the son of head coach Andy Reid, has been charged with driving while intoxicated following a Feb. 4 car crash that left a five-year-old girl with a brain injury, the Jackson County Prosecuting Attorney's Office announced Monday, according to Dia Wall and Sean Hirshberg of 41 Action News.Reid can now face a potential jail sentence of one to seven years, Wall and Hirshberg add. Prosecutors have requested a $100,000 bond."The Kansas City Chiefs organization remains steadfast in our concern for all who have been impacted by this tragic accident," the Chiefs said in a statement Monday, according to Nate Taylor of The Athletic. "Our prayers are focused on Ariel's continued healing and recovery. The Chiefs are regularly in contact with the family's designated representative during this challenging time."Reid was involved in a multi-vehicle crash three days before Super Bowl LV near the Chiefs' training complex, according to police. It resulted in two young children being injured, one critically. The critically injured girl was identified as Ariel Young.The former coach previously told Kansas City police he had consumed two-to-three drinks and also took prescription Adderall."The charge is absolutely appropriate under the circumstances. Ariel will have to endure the consequences of this crash for the rest of her life," Tom Porto, the Young family's attorney, said in a statement obtained by Tom Schad of USA Today.Porto added that Young went home on April 2 and that she's currently unable to walk or talk and depends on a feeding tube for nutrition.The Chiefs put Reid on administrative leave following the incident and eventually let him go after his contract expired.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Actor Kevin James will play New Orleans Saints' Sean Payton in an upcoming Netflix movie titled "Home Team," which explores the head coach's time after being punished for his involvement in the Bountygate scandal, according to NBC Sports' Peter King.In 2012, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell suspended Payton for the season after he was accused of paying bonuses to his players who injured opponents from 2009-11. General manager Mickey Loomis and assistant head coach Joe Vitt were among other Saints members punished for part of that year.The film will examine Payton's time coaching his son's sixth-grade youth football team in Dallas while he was suspended.Payton, 57, read and approved the script after making some corrections to it, King adds.Happy Madison Productions is producing the movie.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Jadeveon Clowney is scheduled for a second free-agent visit with the Cleveland Browns on Wednesday, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports.A deal is not imminent, but both sides have remained in contact and have mutual interest, Rapoport adds.The free-agent pass-rusher was originally scheduled to visit Cleveland on Monday, but travel issues postponed those plans, according to NFL reporter Josina Anderson.Clowney, 28, first met with the AFC North club in late March but left the visit without a deal. The Browns also reportedly reached out to him last offseason before he signed with the Tennessee Titans.The Browns are in the market for an edge rusher to pair with Myles Garrett. They've yet to make a major signing on that front, but did add former first-round pick Takk McKinley on a one-year pact this offseason.Clowney has 32 career sacks in his seven seasons. He had 29 in his five years with the Houston Texans, but only managed one with the Seattle Seahawks in 2019 and none in eight games with the Titans.Cleveland ranked 16th in the league in sacks with 38 in 2020. Garrett led the way with 12 and current free agent Olivier Vernon added nine.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Sam Darnold is happy to be with the Carolina Panthers, though he can't help but feel a little hurt about how his New York Jets tenure ended."I imagined I was going to be the franchise quarterback of the New York Jets for a long time. And once you realize that the team that drafted you is moving on, it stings a little bit," Darnold said, according to Panthers reporter Darin Gantt.The Jets traded Darnold to Carolina last week after landing the second overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. Darnold struggled with New York after it drafted him third overall in 2018, posting a 13-25 record as a starter while throwing for 45 touchdowns to 39 interceptions. The trade signaled that the Jets are prepared to select a quarterback at No. 2, with BYU's Zach Wilson emerging as the leading candidate."To go from being unwanted to being wanted is huge," Darnold said. "Getting that news that you're going to be traded, of a team saying, 'Hey, we didn't want you,' for whatever reason, is hard."Darnold, 23, is expected to start for the Panthers after they reportedly granted 2020 starter Teddy Bridgewater permission to seek a trade. Darnold joins a Carolina offense that features Christian McCaffrey, DJ Moore, and former Jets teammate Robby Anderson."There's a little bit of both - relief and excitement," Darnold said. "There's been so much uncertainty this offseason, not knowing what your future was going to look like, that was hard."But now that I'm in Charlotte, I'm excited, and yeah, I guess I am kind of relieved to be here."The Panthers have recorded three straight losing seasons and will enter the 2021 campaign seeking their first playoff berth since 2017.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Philadelphia Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie and general manager Howie Roseman "ridiculed and criticized" every decision former head coach Doug Pederson made, a source told Sheil Kapadia, Bo Wulf, and Zach Berman of The Athletic.The former Eagles head coach was brought in for weekly meetings. During those sessions, the Eagles' top lieutenants criticized his in-game decisions, and the outcome of the previous contest didn't matter. Pederson was treated "like a baby," a source told The Athletic."If you won by three, it wasn’t enough. If you lost on a last-second field goal, you’re the worst coach in history," The Athletic's source said.The Eagles fired Pederson after a 4-11-1 showing in 2020, but his tenure was very close to ending the year prior as well.Lurie demanded his head coach fire former offensive coordinator Mike Groh and wide receivers coach Carson Walch following the 2019 season, an order Pederson fought against. Pederson was then given a 24-hour window to terminate his coaches or be fired himself, The Athletic adds. Groh and Walch were dismissed the following day.Members of the Eagles organization believed Lurie was planting the seeds for Pederson's dismissal in 2017 too, The Athletic notes. The executive met for a long time with former defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz before the season opener, leading some to feel Lurie was grooming the coordinator to take over if Pederson struggled out of the gate. The Eagles went on to win the Super Bowl in 2017 after a 13-3 campaign.Philadelphia's brass also often wasn't united on personnel decisions. Lurie is an "active participant" in the pre-draft process, while Roseman influenced the gameday status of players and playing time, according to The Athletic. The Eagles have been questioned about their personnel decisions after drafting Jalen Reagor, Jalen Hurts, and J.J. Arcega-Whiteside in recent years.The team brought in Nick Sirianni to replace Pederson, and Hurts is expected to become the full-time starting quarterback following the Carson Wentz trade.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The San Francisco 49ers aren't the only team that will be watching Justin Fields during his second pro day.The New England Patriots are also expected to attend the former Ohio State signal-caller's workout on Wednesday, Albert Breer of the MMQB reports.Neither Bill Belichick nor Kyle Shanahan attended Fields' first pro day, electing to watch Mac Jones' workout in Alabama instead. Fields impressed during that session, and he enters the draft after throwing for 67 touchdowns and just nine interceptions during his collegiate career.It was previously reported that New England was aggressively scouting the 2021 class of quarterbacks. The Patriots hold the 15th overall pick, and the front office would likely need to trade up if it's interested in Fields. The heralded prospect is a candidate to be the 49ers' selection at No. 3 as well, though Jones has also been widely linked to San Francisco.The Patriots' offense struggled in 2020, finishing 27th in scoring. Cam Newton, who was re-signed to a one-year deal this offseason, tossed eight touchdown passes with 10 interceptions during his first campaign in New England.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Former Ohio State and NFL running back Eddie George will be named the new coach at Tennessee State, sources told Stadium's Brett McMurphy.The Tigers are currently led by Rod Reed. They will play their final game of the spring season Sunday against Southeast Missouri.George has no coaching experience at any major level but he's widely considered a college football legend. His 1995 season at Ohio State was one of the best in school history as he captured the Heisman Trophy and Big Ten Player of the Year award.Following his storied career with the Buckeyes, he was drafted in the first round by the then-Houston Oilers and spent eight seasons with the Oilers-Tennessee Titans franchise.The 47-year-old had his No. 27 retired by both the Titans and Ohio State following his playing career.Tennessee State is currently 2-4 in Reed's 11th campaign. The school amassed a 12-18 record over his previous three years.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

theScore's Mike Alessandrini and Dan Wilkins break down the top wide receiver prospects in the upcoming 2021 NFL Draft as part of a position-by-position series rolling out throughout April. Also included for offensive skill players is fantasy analysis from theScore's Justin Boone.QB | RB | WR | TE | OL*

Lane Johnson knows that you can't take anything for granted in the NFL.The Philadelphia Eagles offensive tackle's season ended last November after he suffered a severe ankle injury. Numerous injuries also hampered Johnson's 2020 campaign, including the aforementioned ankle as well as knee and shoulder issues. The 30-year-old has played just two full regular seasons (2013, 2015) over eight campaigns.Johnson missed four games in 2019 and nine contests in total last season.With the three-time Pro Bowler nearing full health, he understands that he's going to have to compete for his job in 2021."They may draft another offensive tackle. They got guys coming for me," Johnson said, according to Les Bowen of the Philadelphia Inquirer. "… That’s the name of the game; it’s all about competition."Johnson is a couple of years removed from signing a four-year, $72 million extension with the Eagles. The right tackle will account for nearly $18 million against the salary cap in 2021.Andre Dillard, Philadelphia's 2019 first-round pick, is considered the front-runner to start at left tackle after missing all of last season with a torn biceps tendon. Jordan Mailata and Jack Driscoll are expected to apply pressure on Johnson for the starting gig as well."I like being around the young guys," Johnson said of his teammates. "I like talking to ‘em, I like helping them out with their game. And they motivate me, they push me."The Eagles currently hold the 12th overall selection in a draft that boasts intriguing prospects at the offensive tackle position.Johnson understands the pressure that comes with fending off competition from younger teammates. In 2013, Philly selected him fourth overall with hopes that he would replace then starting left tackle Jason Peters. However, Johnson slid over to right tackle, and Peters remained on the blindside for eight seasons."If you’re 4-11-1, hey, you better rebuild; you better come up with some kind of phrase, to get better," he said.The aging offensive tackle hopes to be part of the solution as the Eagles aim to crawl from the bottom of last year's NFC East standings."As far as where I’m at in my career, I’m at a sense of urgency. I want to hit my prime the next four or five years and then see where I’m at, finish this out strong.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The NFLPA is pushing for an all-virtual offseason ahead of the 2021 season.NFLPA president J.C. Tretter urged players to boycott this spring's in-person offseason team activities on a conference call Friday, sources told Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network."We’ve been telling them it’s voluntary and we’re not gonna go," Tretter said.The players' union also requested virtually conducted mandatory minicamps in June as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.About 300 of the NFL's 2,500 players could miss out on workout-related bonuses if they skip OTAs, Pelissero added.The league previously sent a memo in March to prepare players for the beginning of virtual offseason programs on April 19, adding that it didn't expect an all-virtual workout schedule similar to what players experienced in 2020.The NFL has also stated it will not mandate COVID-19 vaccines but did indicate the league could ease pandemic restrictions if teams reach a certain rate of vaccination among staff and players.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Karl Joseph is back with the Raiders.Las Vegas signed the free-agent safety on Friday, the team announced."I never wanted to leave. This was my home. I was drafted here. I feel like I was born to be a Raider," the defensive back said of his return, according to Levi Damien of Raiders Wire.Joseph spent his first four NFL seasons with the Raiders after being drafted in 2016. The former 14th overall pick became a free agent after the 2019 season and spent last year on the Cleveland Browns.The 27-year-old, who has yet to play a full season since entering the league, registered 67 tackles, four pass breakups, and one interception through 14 games in his lone campaign with Cleveland.Joseph adds depth to Las Vegas' safety position, which is considered one of the franchise's biggest needs ahead of the draft.The Raiders' safety depth chart is highlighted by 2019 first-rounder Johnathan Abram, who appeared in just one game as a rookie but led the team with 86 tackles in 2020.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, Google Play, Stitcher, Spotify, and Anchor.In this episode, Danny Kelly of The Ringer joins Boone to discuss the fallout from the Sam Darnold trade and where the top offensive prospects will likely be selected in the NFL draft.

The NFL will get another chance to assess one of the top quarterback prospects in this year's draft.Former North Dakota State quarterback Trey Lance has scheduled a second pro day on April 19, sources told ESPN's Chris Mortensen.The 20-year-old performed during a workout for 30 teams on March 12, completing 58 of his 66 pass attempts.Lance only logged one season as a starter with the Bisons. He threw for 2,786 yards and 28 touchdowns against zero interceptions in 2019, guiding his team to an FCS national title. He added another 1,100 yards and 14 scores on the ground.North Dakota State's 2020 campaign was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, Lance was only able to play in one exhibition game last year before declaring for the draft.With the Jacksonville Jaguars and New York Jets widely expected to take Trevor Lawrence and Zach Wilson with the No. 1 and No. 2 picks, respectively, the draft's biggest mystery is arguably the order in which the next three quarterbacks will be selected.The San Francisco 49ers recently made a blockbuster trade for the No. 3 pick, presumably to take one of Lance, Justin Fields, or Mac Jones.While many believe Fields would be San Francisco's preferred option, other teams reportedly think the NFC West club is eyeing Jones.Fields is also is set to hold a second pro day on April 14.49ers general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan are reportedly expected to attend the ex-Ohio State passer's workout after missing his first to watch Jones go through drills.In theScore's latest mock draft, the Denver Broncos select Lance at No. 4 after acquiring the pick from the Atlanta Falcons.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

A series of recent moves around the league completely flipped the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft upside down, including the San Francisco 49ers moving up to the No. 3 spot, and the Carolina Panthers trading for Sam Darnold.So what better time to take another look at projections for the big event? And this time we added in a few trades of our own, with the pursuit of the top quarterbacks really heating up.1. Jacksonville Jaguars - Trevor Lawrence, QB, ClemsonEveryone knew who the Jaguars will be selecting first overall, but Urban Meyer finally admitted the obvious. The new head coach recently said Jacksonville is heading in the "direction" of Lawrence, all but setting this pick in stone. We couldn't think of a better way for a legendary college coach to kick off his NFL tenure. - Alessandrini2. New York Jets - Zach Wilson, QB, BYUIf Lawrence is a lock for the Jaguars at No. 1, the Jets selecting Wilson with the next pick is almost a guarantee. Scouts were raving about the BYU star after his brilliant pro day, and Wilson's arm talent is rare from a quarterback entering the draft. While there are certainly concerns about his lack of exposure to top competition, the Jets will believe Wilson's potential is too good to pass up. - Belbeck3. San Francisco 49ers (from HOU via MIA) - Justin Fields, QB, Ohio State Jamie Sabau / Getty Images Sport / GettyWe've all seen the reports tying the 49ers to Mac Jones after their big trade. We're just not buying it yet. There may be a bright future ahead of Jones, but in today's NFL, it's tough to imagine Kyle Shanahan willingly parting with two future first-round picks for a quarterback who doesn't bring any athletic element to his offense. Especially when there are two dynamic signal-callers still on the board. Fields is an advanced passer who can also improvise and make plays on designed runs. After years of the team getting by with a QB-friendly system propping up average quarterback play, Fields' skill set could take Shanahan's offense to another level. - Wilkins4. TRADE: Denver Broncos (from ATL) - Trey Lance, QB, North Dakota StateWith three straight quarterbacks flying off the board, Denver packages multiple picks to move into the top five and select its future franchise passer. Lance could be the final piece to an elite offense already featuring Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton. Drew Lock remains on the roster, but there's a reason the Broncos have been linked to quarterback trades and top-tier prospects this offseason. - Alessandrini5. Cincinnati Bengals - Kyle Pitts, TE, FloridaThe Bengals are in a very enviable position heading into the 2021 draft. With the top-four picks all quarterbacks, Cincinnati can take Florida's Kyle Pitts, who's surely the No. 1 player on the team's draft board. While the No. 5 slot may seem high for a tight end, Pitts is unlike any talent at the position we've ever seen. Adding him to a pass-catching corps of Tee Higgins, Tyler Boyd, and Auden Tate will make Joe Burrow a very happy man. - Belbeck6. Miami Dolphins (from PHI) - Ja'Marr Chase, WR, LSUThe Dolphins continue to manage assets better than any NFL team. After a pair of recent trades (going from No. 3 to No. 12, and then back up to No. 6) Miami effectively netted a future first-rounder to move back three spots. And in this scenario after an early run on quarterbacks, the Dolphins still come away with the draft's best receiver. Chase would pair with speedy free-agent addition Will Fuller to give Tua Tagovailoa a stellar pair of pass-catchers as he continues to develop. - Wilkins7. Detroit Lions - Penei Sewell, OT, Oregon Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyDetroit finds itself in the perfect position to land a premier offensive prospect. Sewell embodies everything new head coach Dan Campbell is looking for in his players. He'd instantly upgrade the Lions' right tackle spot, and would eventually take over for Taylor Decker on the left side. - Alessandrini8. Carolina Panthers - Rashawn Slater, OT, NorthwesternAfter reeling in Darnold to compete for the quarterback job, Matt Rhule grabs some quality offensive line help to protect his passer. Slater is a rock-solid prospect who can dominate as both a run-blocker and in pass protection. He also offers some versatility, as Slater can play either tackle or guard. - Belbeck9. TRADE: Atlanta Falcons (from DEN) - Micah Parsons, LB, Penn StatePassing on a top quarterback at No. 4 is risky, as who knows when the Falcons will be in a position like this again. But trading down became a realistic possibility with Matt Ryan's recent extension likely tying him to the organization for another two years. Denver would need to be aggressive to move up from No. 9, so coming away with a haul of picks for both this year and the future is also a solid outcome for Atlanta, all while still adding a defensive cornerstone like Parsons. - Wilkins10. Dallas Cowboys - Patrick Surtain II, CB, AlabamaThe Cowboys are sitting pretty at No. 10, as they can draft the No. 1 cornerback on their board. We think that player is Surtain, one of the safest prospects in the 2021 class. The Alabama product offers everything teams look for in a starting defensive back, and the pick would fill a glaring need in Dallas' secondary opposite Surtain's former teammate Trevon Diggs. - Alessandrini11. New York Giants - Kwity Paye, Edge, Michigan Joe Robbins / Getty Images Sport / GettyPaye is arguably the draft's most explosive pass-rusher, and he would give the Giants a playmaker off the edge. The Michigan star ripped off a remarkable 4.54-second time in the 40-yard dash at the school's pro day while also producing 36 reps on the bench press. There may be concerns about how he fits into a 3-4 defense, but his athleticism and raw potential will make this pick worth the risk for New York. - Belbeck12. Philadelphia Eagles (from SF via MIA) - Jaylen Waddle, WR, AlabamaUsing a first-round pick on a receiver for the second time in as many years may not be the most popular decision in Philadelphia, but Waddle is just too good to pass up. One of the rare wideouts actually worthy of a Tyreek Hill comparison, the Alabama standout is a threat to score from anywhere. Adding this type of game-breaker to the receiver room would go a long way toward improving the Eagles' chances of rebounding after a few years of offensive ineptitude. - Wilkins13. Los Angeles Chargers - DeVonta Smith, WR, AlabamaWith several talented prospects available and a few key holes to plug, Los Angeles opts for one of the draft's top playmakers. Smith, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, profiles as an excellent fit for an offense that Justin Herbert leads. There's also one year left on Mike Williams' contract, so the Chargers' receiver position must be addressed for the short and long term. - Alessandrini14. TRADE: Washington Football Team (from MIN) - Mac Jones, QB, AlabamaDespite a ton of buzz regarding Jones being selected toward the top of the draft, the Alabama quarterback finds his home at No. 14 after Washington makes a trade. Ryan Fitzpatrick, Taylor Heinicke, and Kyle Allen offer more questions than answers for Ron Rivera. If Jones can show the skill set that helped him flourish with the Crimson Tide, expect him to be a starter sooner than later. - Belbeck15. New England Patriots - Jaycee Horn, CB, South Carolina Jonathan Bachman / Getty Images Sport / GettyAfter doing a lot of work to bolster the team's skill positions in free agency, the Patriots can focus on their defensive backfield. Horn, who could be the No. 1 corner in this draft, would be a phenomenal long-term addition opposite JC Jackson. Quarterback is also an option in the first round if the Patriots can trade up far enough. But in this scenario, perhaps they could turn around and shop Stephon Gilmore (who seems to be on the trade block) to the 49ers to reunite with Jimmy Garoppolo. - Wilkins16. Arizona Cardinals - Caleb Farley, CB, Virginia TechFarley's stock is tough to figure out. On one hand, he's arguably the most talented cornerback in this class and possesses an impressive combination of size, speed, and ball skills. However, the Virginia Tech product recently underwent surgery for a lingering back issue. The Cardinals would deem Farley worth the gamble, as they're desperately lacking a playmaker in the secondary. - Alessandrini17. Las Vegas Raiders - Trevon Moehrig, S, TCUAnother first-round safety for Mike Mayock and Jon Gruden? Just two years after taking Johnathan Abram at the end of the opening round, the Raiders dip back into that position with Moehrig, who brings great versatility and instincts. Those tools might come in handy for a team that needs to face Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert a combined four times each season. - Belbeck18. Miami Dolphins - Jaelan Phillips, Edge, MiamiLanding a premier receiver at No. 6 addresses one pressing need for the Dolphins, and Phillips in this spot would take care of another. A freak athlete who already boasts a wide variety of pass-rush moves, the Miami (FL) standout comes with significant upside. - Wilkins19. TRADE: Minnesota Vikings (from WAS) - Alijah Vera-Tucker, OL, USC Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyTrading down and still landing a potential star blocker would be excellent business for the Vikings. Vera-Tucker projects as an upgrade over nearly every starter currently penciled in atop Minnesota's offensive line depth chart, and he's versatile enough to begin his career at either tackle or guard. - Alessandrini20. Chicago Bears - Christian Darrisaw, OT, Virginia TechIf Nick Foles and Andy Dalton are set to sit atop the Bears' quarterback depth chart, the club needs to ensure the offensive line is dominant for a chance at the playoffs. That's exactly what Chicago does with Darrisaw here. He might not hold the potential of Sewell or Slater, but Darrisaw offers very good value in this slot. - Belbeck21. Indianapolis Colts - Azeez Ojulari, Edge, GeorgiaLeft tackle is the most glaring need on the roster, but the Colts aren't the type of team to force a pick if their top targets are already off the board. Ojulari would upgrade another important spot on the other side of the ball while taking some pressure off All-Pro defensive tackle DeForest Buckner. - Wilkins22. Tennessee Titans - Greg Newsome II, CB, NorthwesternWith just Janoris Jenkins, Kristian Fulton, and a handful of NFL journeymen leading its cornerback depth chart, Tennessee is likely to target the position early. Newsome's fit in Mike Vrabel's defense is an intriguing one, as he possesses an excellent combination of size, speed, and technical prowess in coverage. - Alessandrini23. New York Jets (from SEA) - Gregory Rousseau, Edge, Miami Michael Reaves / Getty Images Sport / GettyThe Jets will run to the podium to make this pick if Rousseau is available. The Miami star opted out of the 2020 collegiate season, but his 2019 tape is enough to make him one of the best pass-rushers in this class. After watching Robert Saleh's defense with the 49ers, it's easy to see why the new Jets head coach would love to bring Rousseau aboard. - Belbeck24. Pittsburgh Steelers - Teven Jenkins, OT, Oklahoma StateThe Steelers need to address their offensive line if bringing Ben Roethlisberger back is going to work out as they hope. Running back will be a popular prediction here, and that position remains a possibility with all the top ball carriers still on the board. But the opportunity to upgrade at offensive tackle with a pro-ready talent like Jenkins is an example of the board falling perfectly in Pittsburgh's favor. - Wilkins25. Jacksonville Jaguars (from LAR) - Christian Barmore, DL, AlabamaMeyer's philosophy rests on dominance in the trenches, and that's exactly what Barmore would bring to Jacksonville's defense. The Jaguars already signed several linemen in free agency, but they lost Tyson Alualu to Pittsburgh. The team clearly needs to add another impact player in that area. - Alessandrini26. Cleveland Browns - Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, LB, Notre DameOwusu-Koramoah can play many defensive positions. While he lacks the ideal size at just 6-foot-1 and 215 pounds, the Notre Dame star is an explosive athlete who flies all over the field. In today's pass-happy NFL, his athleticism is too good for the Browns to pass on. - Belbeck27. Baltimore Ravens - Terrace Marshall Jr., WR, LSU Jamie Schwaberow / Getty Images Sport / GettyA reported aggressive pursuit of JuJu Smith-Schuster confirms what most already knew: Receiver is a major need in Baltimore. Pivoting to Sammy Watkins may provide a short-term boost, but that shouldn't be all the Ravens do to surround Lamar Jackson with weapons. Marshall is a big-play machine who could be the perfect addition on the outside opposite Hollywood Brown. - Wilkins28. New Orleans Saints - Jamin Davis, LB, KentuckyAfter putting up absurd testing numbers during his pro day, Davis soars into the first round as an intriguing defensive prospect with plenty of upside. New Orleans could benefit from adding another linebacker next to Demario Davis, and the former Kentucky star offers the speed and playmaking ability that head coach Sean Payton covets. - Alessandrini29. Green Bay Packers - Landon Dickerson, C, AlabamaDickerson led one of the best offensive lines in college football history, and he'll instantly be a hit in Green Bay. He's coming back from an ACL injury, but judging by the cartwheels Dickerson was pulling off during Alabama's pro day, it seems his recovery is going well. This selection isn't a first-round receiver, but Aaron Rodgers will be pleased with some top-end interior offensive line help. - Belbeck30. Buffalo Bills - Asante Samuel Jr., CB, Florida StateThere aren't many needs for the Bills throughout their extremely talented roster. But they'd do well to emerge from the first few rounds with additions at cornerback and on the defensive front. Samuel takes care of the former, and his playmaking skill would fit right in on a Buffalo defense that's already among the league's best at forcing turnovers. - Wilkins31. Kansas City Chiefs - Kadarius Toney, WR, Florida Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images Sport / GettyThe Chiefs still must address their offensive line during the draft, but when a player of Toney's caliber is available at the end of Round 1, it's hard to pass on him. The shifty wideout would be an upgrade over Demarcus Robinson, he'd offer the versatility to play out wide or in the slot, and Toney would add yet another dangerous weapon for Patrick Mahomes to target. - Alessandrini32. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Jayson Oweh, Edge, Penn StateThe defending Super Bowl champions return virtually their entire roster, and they can add one of the more intriguing talents in this draft at the end of the first round. Oweh is very raw, but he showed incredible burst off the edge throughout his time at Penn State. - BelbeckCopyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The New York Jets' decision to trade quarterback Sam Darnold this week was pretty straightforward. The Jets have the No. 2 pick in a QB-rich draft, a head coach and general manager who inherited Darnold, and a bounty of draft capital and salary-cap space that they're putting toward a true rebuild, even if Jets fans are no doubt tired of starting over.From a team-building standpoint, the move makes sense for New York, even if the actual hard work of drafting good football players is yet to come.The Carolina Panthers' decision to acquire Darnold is a bit more difficult to understand. The Panthers pursued trades for Matthew Stafford and Deshaun Watson this offseason, so they clearly wanted an upgrade over Teddy Bridgewater. But the Panthers are coming off a five-win season, and they gave up three draft picks for Darnold - a sixth-rounder this year, plus second- and fourth-rounders in 2022 - even though they still have plenty of holes in their roster.Just last year, Carolina committed significant cap resources and guarantees to Bridgewater that extend into 2021. They're now banking on being able to repair Darnold, and before he takes a snap, they'll have to pledge significant cap resources and guarantees to him that extend into 2022.The San Francisco 49ers' recent trade up to the draft's No. 3 spot put the Panthers in a bit of a bind. It's all but certain that quarterbacks are coming off the board with the first three picks, and there's no way the Atlanta Falcons are going to hand a division rival the No. 4 selection to choose their signal-caller of the future. Adam Glanzman / Getty ImagesThe quarterback the Panthers want could fall to them at No. 8, and GM Scott Fitterer said the Darnold trade "doesn't take us out of taking a quarterback." But the impulse to bring in Darnold is nonetheless a sizable gamble that seems panicky.Darnold was dealt a bum hand during his time with the Jets. He was surrounded by substandard pass-catchers, a rickety offensive line, and a coaching change that belched up Adam Gase. Darnold sometimes flashed the game-breaking potential that made him the No. 3 overall pick in the 2018 draft, but those moments were fleeting. He missed 10 games with injuries across three seasons, and he rarely showed the ability to overcome his crummy circumstances. In 2020, Darnold finished last among starters in Total QBR and expected points added per play. It's hard to suss out exactly how much of that lack of production is Darnold's fault and how much is the Jets'. The Panthers are betting that head coach Matt Rhule and offensive coordinator Joe Brady can prove it was more of the latter. The obvious comparison is the improvement Ryan Tannehill showed once he was able to distance himself from Gase. But as Chase Stuart of Football Perspective noted, Darnold's three-year production is in line with "some all-time draft busts," and successful reclamations of QBs with similar starts to their careers are much more the exception than the rule.Rhule has a track record of success as a program-builder at the college level, and Brady famously did wonders for Joe Burrow's development at LSU. The franchise invested $33 million in guaranteed money in Bridgewater because it saw something Rhule and Brady could work with. But the Panthers lost nine of their last 11 games in 2020, a stretch in which Bridgewater's EPA/play ranked 26th, per Ben Baldwin's database. Bridgewater tends to be accurate and risk-averse - he ranked 27th in big-time throw percentage, per PFF - but he was also 20th in turnover-worthy throws. Even in a system tailor-made for him, he wasn't up to the task. Don Juan Moore / Getty ImagesDarnold (31st in big-time throw percentage, 26th in turnover-worthy throws) was worse on both counts. He can also be reckless: During Darnold's three years in the league, only Jameis Winston and Ryan Fitzpatrick had a higher interception rate than Darnold's 3.2%. But Darnold is five years younger than Bridgewater, and the Panthers are wagering that he has a higher ceiling and that Rhule and Brady can tap into that potential.In Carolina, Darnold will have at his disposal versatile running back Christian McCaffrey, plus wideouts Robby Anderson - a former Jets teammate - and D.J. Moore. The Panthers also added tight end Dan Arnold, who caught 31 passes and four touchdowns for the Arizona Cardinals last year.There are still questions about the offensive line, however. It ranked 23rd in ESPN's pass block win rate metric, and while the team used the franchise tag on right tackle Taylor Moton, it also added guard Pat Elflein - who was waived by the Minnesota Vikings last season before finishing the campaign with Darnold and the Jets - along with swing tackle Cam Erving, who's on his third team in as many years and missed most of 2020 with a knee injury. The Panthers chose not to re-sign veteran left tackle Russell Okung, who remains a free agent.Bridgewater's contract isn't a complete albatross, but it's problematic. He is set to count for $22.9 million against the Panthers' cap this season, with $10 million of his $17-million salary guaranteed, per Over the Cap. Cutting him would result in a $20-million dead-money hit. In other words, Carolina is stuck with him - unless it can trade him, which would likely require Bridgewater to agree to a substantial pay cut.Darnold is set to count for a guaranteed $4.7 million in both cash and cap, which seems like a bargain until you consider it's nearly twice what Winston, Mitchell Trubisky, and Gardner Minshew are on the books for. And the Panthers only have until May 3 to decide whether to pick up the fifth-year option on Darnold's rookie deal, which would lock in his 2022 salary at $18.6 million. Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports reported the team intends to do this.Yes, that's a two-year average of $11.3 million for Darnold, which isn't exorbitant for a quarterback. But compounding the risk for the Panthers, a wrinkle in the 2020 collective bargaining agreement that makes those fifth-year options for first-round picks fully guaranteed as soon as they're exercised. In the past, those options only became fully guaranteed the following March - a mechanism that would have allowed the Panthers to cut Darnold loose after 2021 without paying him another dime. They can wait until after the draft to pick up the option, but once they do, there's no going back - even if Darnold can't be salvaged. Icon Sportswire / Getty ImagesAnother issue with allocating so much toward a quarterback this year is that Carolina's defense remains a work in progress. The Panthers used all seven of their 2020 draft picks on defensive players, but their defense still finished 24th in DVOA, and it continues to have issues at cornerback, even after signing 29-year-old A.J. Bouye this week.If the Panthers can't trade Bridgewater (again, his contract terms make it challenging), they'll essentially be left with $27.6 million in combined cap charges for their two quarterbacks, or roughly 15% of this year's unadjusted cap. Only seven teams have more of their 2021 cap resources tied to the position (excluding dead-money charges), according to Over the Cap. That's on top of the three picks in the next two drafts they just parted with. This is the reality of not having a franchise QB while also trying to chase last year's mistake with Bridgewater by betting on Darnold.The Panthers assessed that risk and determined Rhule and Brady could do enough to fix Darnold to make this thing go. There's certainly a chance they could be right. But the evidence suggests otherwise, and the costs of being wrong again will make the next repair that much more difficult.Dom Cosentino is a senior features writer at theScore.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New Los Angeles Chargers head coach Brandon Staley knows that one of his primary jobs is to build an offensive line that protects franchise quarterback Justin Herbert.Herbert thrived during his rookie campaign. The 2020 sixth overall pick was thrust into the starting role in Week 2 and earned Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.Staley said one of the team's biggest needs entering Herbert's second season is at left tackle."Yeah, there certainly (is) a hole there right now," Staley said Thursday, according to Nick Shook of NFL.com. "We feel like we have some tackle prospects on the roster that can certainly play there. But it's gonna be certainly a position that we need to address you know, before July.”Former starting left tackle Sam Tevi signed with the Indianapolis Colts this offseason after starting 44 games for the Chargers through four campaigns."As you know, there's a lot different ways to address it within the draft, free agency, trade," Staley added. "So there's a lot of different ways that you can do that."The 2021 draft features Herbert's former Oregon teammate, Penei Sewell. The offensive tackle expressed his desire to reunite with his college quarterback, saying it "would be a dream come true."However, the Chargers' first pick in the upcoming draft is at No. 13, and Sewell is expected to be selected in the top 10.Though the draft represents Los Angeles' best chance to shore up its offensive line, the Chargers have already used free agency to address some of their needs, signing center Corey Linsley and guard Matt Feiler.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New York Jets general manager Joe Douglas isn't worried about the outcome of the Sam Darnold trade. In fact, Douglas believes his former quarterback will shine with the Carolina Panthers."Whether I look bad or not (for trading Darnold), I could give two shits about that," Douglas said, according to Albert Breer of The MMQB. "I know that he's gonna have success. The timing didn't really work out for him here. We couldn't turn this around fast enough for him. And that's not his fault. I root for good people, and that dude's a good man, and he's gonna do good things."The Jets traded Darnold to the Panthers in exchange for three draft picks, including a second-rounder in 2022. The team ultimately moved on from the 2018 third overall pick after three seasons.Douglas added that before free agency began in mid-March, eight teams expressed interest in the signal-caller, which could've led to a stronger return.However, due to pandemic limitations, the Jets' front office hadn't fully completed its evaluation of rookie quarterbacks at the time, which led to the team declining trade packages for Darnold, including one from the Panthers."It was a strong offer," Douglas said. "We told them, 'Look, there's still a lot of boxes left to check. And we just don't feel comfortable, in case something happens with one of the top two guys (in the draft), we don't want to get caught in a bad situation, like one of two guys fails a physical and then we don't have Sam.' So we didn't do anything."Douglas became New York's general manager after Darnold's rookie campaign. He's expected to select a quarterback with the No. 2 overall pick on April 29, with former BYU star Zach Wilson considered the favorite.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

theScore's Mike Alessandrini and Dan Wilkins break down the top running back prospects in the upcoming 2021 NFL Draft as part of a position-by-position series rolling out throughout April. Also included for offensive skill players is fantasy analysis from theScore's Justin Boone.QB | RB | WR | TE* | OL*

Kyle Pitts is regarded by some as the most talented player in the 2021 NFL Draft, and you can count Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones among those blown away by the former Florida tight end.Jones is "infatuated" with the 6-foot-5, 245-pound Pitts, according to ESPN's Chris Mortensen.The 20-year-old is in contention to be the first non-quarterback offensive player selected in the draft, so the Cowboys would likely need to trade up from No. 10 overall to secure him.Pitts caught 43 passes for 770 yards and 12 touchdowns in eight games during his final season with the Gators in 2020. He won the Mackey Award for the nation's top tight end and was named a unanimous All-American.Dallas already boasts a stacked pass-catching group headlined by receivers Amari Cooper, CeeDee Lamb, and Michael Gallup, and tight end Dalton Schultz.Schultz had a strong third season last year, catching 63 passes for 615 yards and four touchdowns despite Dak Prescott missing most of the season due to an ankle injury.But Jones, who also acts as Dallas' general manager, has historically been unafraid to make blockbuster moves in the draft to land star players he covets.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

2020 saw Tua Tagovailoa and Ryan Fitzpatrick wrestle over the Miami Dolphins' starting quarterback gig. Now, with Fitzpatrick gone, cornerback Byron Jones is hopeful Tagovailoa can reach new heights."What we saw last year was great from him but we expect a big jump," Jones said on "Good Morning Football," according to Kevin Patra of NFL.com. "The kid's been working ... Really good head on his shoulders. And that's the beauty of it. We're surrounded by a bunch of good guys who want to be great again."Jones continued: "So, I'm looking forward to seeing his jump. His contributions to the team have been great so far, but we're looking for even something better this year. It's exciting. I can't wait to see him work his magic."Tagovailoa averaged just 6.3 yards per attempt and 181.4 yards per game during his rookie season. Additionally, Fitzpatrick replaced him on a couple of occasions down the stretch.There was speculation earlier this offseason that the Dolphins could look for a new quarterback. However, general manager Chris Grier committed to Tagovailoa in January while head coach Brian Flores noted his excitement for the signal-caller's second season.Miami has made a few changes in hopes of improving its offense. The team signed vertical threat Will Fuller while George Godsey and Eric Studesville will share offensive coordinator duties after Chan Gailey's resignation.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Julian Edelman likely won't be able to play the entire 2021 season due to a lingering knee issue that sidelined him for most of the last campaign, a source told Karen Guregian of the Boston Herald.Knee injuries have hampered the New England Patriots receiver for the better part of two years, and the condition is considered to be chronic, Guregian also notes.Edelman doesn't intend to retire. But surgery won't solve the underlying issue, the source told Guregian. If he does play, it's unlikely the veteran will be able to perform at full speed toward the end of the season.The 34-year-old was placed on the injured reserve last October after undergoing surgery to alleviate pain and swelling. He was unable to return to the field following the procedure.New England may face a difficult decision if the club deems Edelman unfit to consistently contribute. Bill Belichick's squad added multiple offensive weapons throughout free agency, including Hunter Henry and Nelson Agholor.There's one year left on the wideout's current contract. The Patriots would owe Edelman $2.6 million after a trade or releasing him, but the move would also free up about $3.5 million in cap space.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Carolina Panthers signed free-agent cornerback A.J. Bouye, the team announced Wednesday.The Denver Broncos released Bouye following the 2020 season.Bouye missed several games this past campaign after suffering a shoulder injury in Week 1. He finished with 23 tackles and six passes defended in seven contests.He'll miss the first two games of the 2021 season as he continues to serve a six-game suspension for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing drugs.The cornerback started his career with the Houston Texans. After four seasons in Houston, Bouye signed a five-year, $67.5-million contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He was named to the Pro Bowl after tallying six interceptions and 18 passes defended in 2017.Bouye has started 69 games and hauled in 14 interceptions to go along with 338 tackles in his career.His arrival comes just days after Carolina traded for quarterback Sam Darnold.Bouye provides a veteran presence to a Panthers secondary that features Donte Jackson and Rashaan Melvin.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan are expected to observe Justin Fields' second pro day April 14, reports NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.The 49ers duo was absent from the Ohio State quarterback's first pro day March 30 and instead watched Mac Jones go through drills at Alabama.Lynch and Shanahan are widely expected to choose between Fields and Jones with the third overall pick of the 2021 NFL Draft. Most analysts are projecting Jones to the 49ers amid rumors that Lynch and Shanahan are high on his skill set and fit in the team's offensive system.Fields performed well at his first pro day. The 2019 Heisman Trophy finalist threw for 63 touchdowns versus nine interceptions across two seasons at Ohio State.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Philadelphia Eagles re-signed running back Jordan Howard to a one-year deal, the team announced Wednesday.Howard was originally drafted by the Chicago Bears in 2016 and traded to the Eagles in 2019. He appeared in 12 games for Philly, scoring six touchdowns.He signed a two-year contract with the Miami Dolphins last March, but was waived eight months later. He then landed on the Eagles' practice squad.Howard has 3,955 career rushing yards and 34 rushing touchdowns in 64 games. The 26-year-old joins a depth chart that includes Miles Sanders, Boston Scott, and Elijah Holyfield at running back.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Matthew Stafford came to the Los Angeles Rams with two years remaining on his contract, but general manager Les Snead thinks a longer stay is likely."I don't think we did it thinking two years," Snead said on the "11 Personnel" podcast, according to The Athletic's Jourdan Rodrigue. "Based on his age, you can legitimately think five to seven, eight years if you look at what Drew (Brees) has done."The Detroit Lions dealt Stafford, 33, to the Rams in a blockbuster deal for Jared Goff and multiple draft picks in January. L.A. brought in the veteran signal-caller as an upgrade at quarterback after Goff struggled with consistency amid a reported strained relationship with head coach Sean McVay."With quarterbacks of his pedigree, a lot of those guys have played into their late 30s, for sure. So that was definitely the vision with (Stafford)," Snead said.A contract extension could be in the cards for Stafford and the Rams in the near future to ensure he hits the timeline target provided by Snead. The veteran quarterback said he wasn't "too worried" about a new deal in March and would focus solely on playing football.Stafford's base salary for the final two years of this deal is an affordable $9.5 million and $12.5 million, per Over The Cap. However, his cap hits are $20 million for this season and $23 million in 2022.A former first overall pick, Stafford comes to Los Angeles with 45,109 career passing yards and 282 touchdown passes.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Nike has suspended its endorsement of Deshaun Watson amid allegations of sexual misconduct against the Houston Texans quarterback, the company told CNBC's Jabari Young on Wednesday."We are deeply concerned by the disturbing allegations and have suspended Deshaun Watson. We will continue to closely monitor the situation," Nike said in a statement.Beats by Dre, one of Watson's other national sponsorship deals, has ended its relationship with the quarterback, a source told ESPN's Sarah Barshop.Watson is facing lawsuits alleging sexual assault and inappropriate behavior from 22 women, with lawyer Tony Buzbee representing all of them.Ashley Solis, the first massage therapist who filed a suit against the passer, identified herself during a press conference Tuesday. Solis said she suffers from “panic attacks, anxiety, and depression" due to Watson's alleged actions in March 2020.Lauren Baxley, a second woman who has filed a suit, also spoke out Tuesday. Baxley didn't appear in person, but she wrote a letter addressed to Watson that was read during the press conference.Watson has denied any wrongdoing. The 25-year-old said in a March statement that he has "never treated any woman with anything other than the utmost respect."After Tuesday's press conference, Watson's lawyer Rusty Hardin said the claims stem from a failed blackmail attempt. Hardin said Buzbee sought a $100,000 payment on Solis' behalf as a settlement a month prior to the first lawsuit being filed.The Houston Police Department announced last week that it would start an investigation into Watson. The NFL has opened an investigation into the allegations against the Texans signal-caller as well.The quarterback has formally requested a trade from the Texans.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Jim Schwartz is returning to the Tennessee Titans to serve as a senior defensive assistant following a five-year run as the Philadelphia Eagles' defensive coordinator.The veteran coach left the Eagles of his own volition in January. He reportedly contemplated retirement but never formally announced he was finished with coaching."We are excited to add Jim to our staff," Titans head coach Mike Vrabel said in a statement. "He has a deep level of football knowledge and has overseen a great deal of success on the defensive side of the ball, so it always good to add a quality coach to our staff."This role will provide our defensive staff with Jim's experience and perspective in the staff meetings and on the practice field."Schwartz worked for the Titans from 1999-2008 under then-head coach Jeff Fisher. He served as defensive coordinator for eight of those seasons before landing a head coaching gig with the Detroit Lions.The Eagles ranked 19th in yards allowed and 20th in points allowed in 2020, while the Titans were 28th and 24th, respectively. Philadelphia ranked fourth in both categories during its Super Bowl-winning season in 2017.Tennessee previously named outside linebackers coach Shane Bowen its defensive coordinator for 2021, though he already began calling plays last year.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Cincinnati Bengals released running back Giovani Bernard after his eight seasons with the club, the team announced Wednesday.Bernard was Cincinnati's second-round pick in 2013, and he's played 115 games for the Bengals while racking up 3,697 rushing yards, 2,867 receiving yards, and 33 total touchdowns.The 29-year-old asked for his release after the Bengals approached him about a pay cut two weeks into free agency, a source told Mike Garafolo of NFL Network. Cutting Bernard will save the AFC North squad $4.1 million in cap space, according to Spotrac.The veteran received trade interest prior to his release, NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reports.Bernard recorded his most touches (124 carries, 47 catches) since the 2015 season this past campaign with starter Joe Mixon unavailable for 10 games due to injury.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

theScore's Mike Alessandrini and Dan Wilkins break down the top quarterback prospects in the upcoming 2021 NFL Draft as part of a position-by-position series being released throughout April. Also included for offensive skill players is fantasy analysis from theScore's Justin Boone.QB | RB | WR* | TE* | OL*

Two of the women who have filed lawsuits against Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson identified themselves Tuesday during a press conference held by their lawyer, Tony Buzbee.Ashley Solis is the first massage therapist who filed a suit against Watson, according to Buzbee, before 21 more women also filed lawsuits alleging sexual assault and inappropriate behavior."I got into massage therapy to heal people," Solis said at Tuesday's press conference, according to Sarah Barshop of ESPN. "To heal their minds and bodies. To bring peace to their souls. Deshaun Watson has robbed me of that. He took that away from me. He tainted a profession in which I take enormous pride. ..."I suffer from panic attacks, anxiety, and depression. I'm in counseling as a result of Deshaun Watson's actions. I hope he knows how much pain he's inflicted on me emotionally and physically. And I hope he knows how much pain he's inflicted on these other survivors."Solis added, "People say that I'm doing this just for money. That is false. I come forward now so that Deshaun Watson does not assault another woman."Buzbee said that Solis and at least one of his other clients gave statements to the police, Barshop adds."We were all deceived into thinking Deshaun Watson was a good guy. And we all know good guys can do terrible things," Solis said, according to Samantha Ketterer of The Houston Chronicle.Lauren Baxley, who also filed a suit, did not appear Tuesday but wrote a letter addressed to Watson that was read during the press conference."Every boundary from professional and therapeutic to sexual and degrading you crossed or attempted to cross," Baxley wrote, according to Barshop.Watson's attorney, Rusty Hardin, responded to Tuesday's press conference with a statement obtained by NFL Network's Mike Garafolo. Hardin said Buzbee emailed Scott Gaffield of Watson's agency seeking a $100,000 payment on Solis' behalf to settle a month prior to the first lawsuit being filed."My email exchanges with Mr. Buzbee and Ms. Brandfield-Harvey were very clear. We did not think that the facts showed that Deshaun did anything wrong with their client. We believed then - and fully believe now - that Deshaun learned a lesson about putting himself in this type of situation by interacting with people he does not know," Gaffield said."As the emails show, we were willing to continue discussions on Deshaun's behalf to explore ways to prevent a lawsuit and a public spectacle," he added. "But Mr. Buzbee informed us that he was unwilling to do so. We expect that this matter will be resolved in court."The Houston Police Department announced last week that it would start an investigation into Watson. Hardin said they will fully cooperate with the police department.Texans chairman Cal McNair and his family said they are taking the allegations against Watson "very seriously" in a letter sent Monday to Texans season-ticket holders."The allegations are deeply disturbing and we take these issues very seriously," the NFL said in a statement after the press conference, according to Aaron Wilson of The Houston Chronicle. The league reiterated that it opened an investigation in March.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Before re-signing with the Seattle Seahawks late last month, Carlos Dunlap wanted to know who would quarterback the team in the fall.So the defensive end went directly to the source and asked Russell Wilson about his future considering the trade speculation surrounding the star passer."I did ask him if, obviously, he was going to be with us. Because if I'm coming back, I'm coming back because I see him as my quarterback - and the rest of the team. I want to pick up where we left off (in 2020)," Dunlap told reporters Tuesday, including Gregg Bell of the News Tribune."And he told me he's with us and that he's here to stay. And he said, 'let's go 'Hawks.'"Dunlap said he paraphrased Wilson's words but understood his intentions following the conversation.This offseason, Wilson voiced his displeasure with the number of hits he's taken during his nine-year tenure in Seattle and the lack of input he's been afforded on organizational matters. Trade rumors kicked into overdrive when Wilson's agent identified four teams the Pro Bowler would waive his no-trade clause for in a hypothetical deal.Clubs approached the Seahawks about a trade, but Seattle reportedly rebuffed all offers, including a package of three first-round picks from the Chicago Bears.Trade talks have died down in recent weeks, with the 2021 NFL Draft approaching.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

After cutting the cord on former top prospect Sam Darnold, New York Jets general manager Joe Douglas is fixated on providing Darnold's replacement with better pieces."We have to surround our next quarterback with as much talent as possible," Douglas said Tuesday, according to team reporter Ethan Greenberg.The Jets dealt Darnold to the Carolina Panthers on Monday for three draft picks, moving on from the 2018 third overall pick after three seasons.Inconsistencies and turnovers marred Darnold's tenure with New York, though the Jets hardly helped the 23-year-old's development. The team allowed top receiver Robby Anderson to walk in free agency a year ago, while the offensive line has been a perennial disaster.Douglas began adding impact players early this offseason, signing Corey Davis to bolster the receiving core and edge rusher Carl Lawson to aid the defense. He'll look to add to his modest nucleus in the upcoming draft, as the Jets are set to enter the event with 10 picks, including two in both the first and third rounds."We do have a lot of assets as we sit here now, but we have to make the most of the opportunity," Douglas said.Douglas hinted that the Jets will target BYU quarterback Zach Wilson with the No. 2 overall pick, as most analysts project. He also said the decision to move on from Darnold was partially motivated by the fact that Darnold is on track to hit free agency within the next two years."We felt, ultimately, at the end of the day, this was an opportunity to hit the reset button financially, so to speak," Douglas said, according to SNY's Ralph Vacchiano.Douglas plucked a pair of promising talents in his draft debut for the Jets last year, selecting left tackle Mekhi Becton in Round 1 and wide receiver Denzel Mims in Round 2. He took over as New York's general manager in June 2019.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Aaron Rodgers is dreaming of being Alex Trebek's permanent successor as the host of "Jeopardy!" while also continuing to pursue a second Super Bowl title.The Green Bay Packers quarterback started his two-week stint as the show's guest host Monday and quickly produced a viral moment when a contestant trolled the quarterback about his team's recent NFC championship loss.Rodgers filmed his 10 episodes over two days in January. With the show only shooting 46 days a year, it would be possible for him to play in the NFL and host the show full-time."I feel like I could host 'Jeopardy!' - and I'd love to," Rodgers said Tuesday on "Good Morning Football," according to Kevin Patra of NFL.com. "I think I bring something different to the show. I was the youngest guest host. There's a different audience that maybe I could bring along with it; hopefully, the numbers show it the next two weeks. But I do enjoy the show. I have a ton of respect for the show."The way that Alex had a smooth hand on the show for three-and-a-half decades is something that can't be understated ... Even if you weren't like a fan of the show and watched it regularly, you just kind of knew who he was and knew he carried himself with a lot of integrity, and that's what I would love to bring, continue to bring to the show."And I feel like I could do both, which would be a lot of fun and a great challenge."Rodgers previously said he took the task of replacing Trebek - who died in November - very seriously, spending hours watching old episodes and writing "pages and pages and pages of notes" in preparation.But while Rodgers said he'd love to be the iconic game show's full-time host, the 37-year-old also made clear he has no plans for a surprise retirement to secure the gig."I still love playing, and I don't want to give that up," Rodgers said Tuesday. "There is something interesting about walking away from the game at the height, you know. There's been many players who've done that. ... That's not what I want to do. ... I still have the passion and the fire, and this last season just reminded me - and I think a lot of people - that I can still play and still play at a really, really high level, and I feel like I can do this for a number of years moving forward."The star passer threw 48 touchdowns to five interceptions last season to secure his third career MVP award.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Arizona Cardinals extended center Rodney Hudson after acquiring him from the Las Vegas Raiders, a source told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.Hudson, who was under contract for $9.9 million in 2021, received an additional two years and $20.1 million.The new pact also includes $16 million in total guarantees, Rapoport adds. Additionally, Hudson's deal reportedly contains two voidable years to spread out his cap hits.Arizona traded a third-round pick to the Raiders for Hudson and a seventh-rounder in mid-March. The 31-year-old apparently asked to leave Las Vegas after six seasons with the team.Hudson, widely viewed as one of the NFL's best centers, made the Pro Bowl in 2016, 2017, and 2019. He was also named a second-team All-Pro in 2019.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Carolina Panthers have given quarterback Teddy Bridgewater permission to talk to other teams to potentially facilitate a trade, sources told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.The Panthers remain open to Bridgewater returning following their acquisition of Sam Darnold, as general manager Scott Fitterer suggested Monday."We're going to find the right place (for Bridgewater), whether it's here or wherever it may be, we'll figure things out, contract-wise as well," Fitterer said.Bridgewater carries a $22.95-million cap hit in 2021 after he signed a three-year, $63-million free-agent deal last offseason. Carolina will carry $10 million in dead money if it trades Bridgewater and $20 million if it releases him prior to June 1, per Spotrac.The veteran ranked 17th in QBR and 22nd in passer rating during his first year as a starter since 2015. Bridgewater threw for 3,733 yards and 15 touchdowns against 11 interceptions while posting a 4-11 record. He also recorded a career-high 69.1% completion percentage.The Panthers traded a sixth-round pick in this year's draft and 2022 second- and fourth-round selections to the New York Jets for Darnold.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Former Seattle Seahawks cornerback Quinton Dunbar has agreed to a one-year deal with the Detroit Lions, his agency announced Monday.Dunbar struggled to stay healthy during his lone season with the Seahawks in 2020, appearing in just six games while producing the worst campaign of his career, according to PFF.He spent time on the commissioner's exempt list during the 2020 offseason after being arrested following an alleged armed robbery in Florida. The charges against him were eventually dropped.The 28-year-old played for the Washington Football Team for his first five seasons after joining the club as an undrafted rookie out of Florida in 2015. He averaged 42 tackles, two interceptions, and 10 pass breakups per 16 games played with Washington.He was traded to the Seahawks for a fifth-round pick after the 2019 season.The cornerback position has recently been an area of concern for the Lions, who lost veterans Justin Coleman and Desmond Trufant in free agency this offseason. Detroit attempted to address the unit with its selection of Jeff Okudah at third overall last year, but the former Ohio State star disappointed as a rookie.Opposing quarterbacks posted a league-high 112.4 passer rating against Detroit in 2020.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Warning: Story contains graphic contentMinnesota Vikings cornerback Jeff Gladney turned himself in to Dallas County police and posted a $10,000 bond on a charge of third-degree family violence assault, J.D. Miles of the CBS 11 News reports.The arrest stems from an incident that took place on April 2.Gladney is accused of hitting a 22-year-old woman with closed fists, choking her, and dragging her by the hair while driving with her outside the vehicle, Miles reports.The woman reportedly told police the argument stemmed from text messages she received. Police issued a warrant after Gladney fled the scene prior to local officers' arrival, Dallas Police Department sergeant Warren Mitchell said, according to ESPN's Courtney Cronin.The 24-year-old could face two to 10 years in prison if convicted."We are aware of Jeff’s arrest and are gathering additional information," the Vikings said in a statement on Monday. "We take this matter very seriously, as the reported allegations are extremely disturbing. At this time we will have no further comment."Gladney finished his first NFL season in January after being selected by Minnesota in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Carolina Panthers quarterback Teddy Bridgewater's future became uncertain after Sam Darnold's arrival to the team via trade Monday.Carolina acquired the former New York Jets' signal-caller in exchange for three picks - including a 2022 second-rounder - following a disappointing debut campaign by Bridgewater in 2020.But the Panthers haven't given up on Bridgewater yet, according to general manager Scott Fitterer. The team instead wants to help the veteran quarterback find what's best for him moving forward."I've already talked to Teddy's agents. We're going to find the right place, whether it's here or wherever it may be, we'll figure things out, contract-wise as well," Fitterer said during a press conference Monday, according to Darin Gantt of panthers.com.Bridgewater signed a three-year contract worth $63 million with Carolina last offseason but couldn't secure his job, throwing for 3,733 yards and 15 touchdowns against 11 interceptions while posting a 4-11 record. The 28-year-old also added 279 yards and five scores on the ground.There aren't any guarantees the Panthers are done adding at quarterback, either, as the team apparently remains open to anything with the eighth overall pick in this year's draft."(The Darnold trade) doesn't take out of anything in the draft," Fitterer said. "It doesn't take us out of taking a quarterback, it doesn't take us out of taking any position."We could always move up, and we could always move back, but this puts us in a position to make the right football decision for this team moving forward."Fitterer also praised Darnold's toughness and ability to move in the pocket, adding that the 2018 third overall pick can finally break out on Carolina's rising offensive unit."I think in this offense with (offensive coordinator) Joe Brady, with (head coach) Matt Rhule, with the weapons we have around him, that he can take that next step with us," he said.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

By sending Sam Darnold to the Carolina Panthers on Monday, the New York Jets made the quarterback their sixth consecutive first-round pick to wind up traded.Four years after drafting Darnold third overall, the Jets dealt away the former top prospect for a sixth-round pick in 2021, a second-rounder in 2022, and a fourth-rounder in 2022.With Darnold gone, defensive tackle Quinnen Williams and left tackle Mekhi Becton are the team's only first-rounders still on the roster. Williams was selected third overall in 2019, while Becton went 11th overall the next year.Jets' first-round picks: 2013-18YearPlayerTraded to2018Sam Darnold (QB)Panthers2017Jamal Adams (S)Seahawks2016Darron Lee (LB)Chiefs2015Leonard Williams (DL)Giants2014Calvin Pryor (S)Browns2013Sheldon Richardson (DL)Seahawks2013Dee Milner (CB)The Jets held two first-round picks in 2013, using the second one on Richardson after choosing Milner with the first. New York released Milner in 2016 before the end of his contract.Defensive end Quinton Coples, the first-round pick before Milner, was also cut before his contract expired.No player the Jets have drafted in Round 1 has received a second contract from the franchise since Muhammad Wilkerson. A 2011 draftee, Wilkerson enjoyed some bright moments in New York, but he was ultimately released in 2018.The four first-rounders who preceded Wilkerson were cornerback Kyle Wilson, quarterback Mark Sanchez, tight end Dustin Keller, and edge rusher Vernon Gholston. Keller produced before injuries derailed his career, but the other three were disappointments. Prior to Gholston, the Jets hit a rare jackpot, nabbing eventual four-time All-Pro cornerback Darrelle Revis.The Jets will get plenty of opportunities to right the ship over the next two drafts, as they're stocked with two first-round selections in both 2021 and 2022. They also hold three second-round picks and three third-round picks over the next two drafts.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Sam Darnold era in New York is over.The Jets traded the quarterback to the Carolina Panthers for a 2021 sixth-round pick (226th overall) and second- and fourth-round selections in 2022, the team announced Monday."I want to publicly acknowledge the commitment, dedication, and professionalism Sam displayed while with the Jets. He is a tough-minded, talented football player whose NFL story has not been written yet," Jets general manager Joe Douglas said in a statement. "While all these things are true, this move is in the short- and long-term best interests for both this team and him."Darnold joined the Jets as the third overall pick in 2018, and he's failed to meet high expectations.The USC product has posted a 13-25 record as a starter while averaging just 3,409 yards and 19 touchdowns against 16 interceptions per 16 games played. The 23-year-old is coming off his worst campaign after registering a career-low passer rating (72.7).The Darnold trade strongly suggests the Jets will select a quarterback with the second overall pick on April 29. Former BYU star Zach Wilson, who's theScore's third-ranked quarterback prospect, has been linked to New York on multiple occasions.The Jets now hold 21 picks over the next two drafts, including seven first- or second-round selections.The Panthers have been looking for a new starting signal-caller since releasing Cam Newton after the 2019 season. Carolina inked Teddy Bridgewater to a three-year, $63-million deal last offseason, but he went 4-11 in his first campaign with the team while recording just 3,733 passing yards and 15 touchdowns.Despite his own struggles, there's still some optimism that Darnold holds untapped potential due to his age. Carolina's rising offense might be able to put him in a position to succeed, with coordinator Joe Brady leading the unit.Darnold is entering the fourth year of his rookie contract, and the Panthers plan to exercise his fifth-year option, a source told Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports. He's set to make $23.5 million over the next two seasons.The Panthers will host the Jets in 2021.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Baltimore Ravens lost out on JuJu Smith-Schuster and T.Y. Hilton in free agency in an attempt to bolster Lamar Jackson's weaponry before the team ultimately landed receiver Sammy Watkins on a one-year contract.But for Watkins, the Ravens were always at the top of his list."I think going through this process and knowing I was going to be a free agent, you look at a lot of different teams, and there was one team that stuck out - it was the Ravens and Lamar Jackson," Watkins said Monday. "(I've) heard too many great stories about just the team and the history of Baltimore."There was speculation that free-agent wideouts didn't view the AFC North team as a favorable landing spot after the Ravens finished 32nd in both passing yards and attempts last season.Smith-Schuster and Hilton reportedly turned down larger offers from Baltimore to return to the Pittsburgh Steelers and Indianapolis Colts, respectively.Watkins, however, has no doubts about the Jackson-led offense."Kind of talked to him like, 'Man, this is your show, I just want to be a part of it. You're a special talent, and I just want to come here and try to help out as far as making plays for you, making it easier on you,'" Watkins added. "He just said the same thing, 'I just want a guy that can go out there and ball, have fun, enjoy himself, and bring that swagger.' And I can't wait to work with him."Watkins will start alongside former first-round pick Marquise Brown, who has flashed star potential over his first two seasons but has consistently struggled to act as Jackson's primary target.While Brown had 769 yards and eight touchdowns - both team highs - last season, he only caught 58 of his 100 targets from the former NFL MVP.Watkins hasn't produced a 1,000-yard campaign since 2015 and had just 421 yards as a secondary option for the Kansas City Chiefs last year. Still, the veteran should bring much-needed experience to a young Ravens receiver group.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Warning: Story contains offensive languageTampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Carlton Davis apologized for using an anti-Asian slur on social media Sunday night."Gotta stop letting g---- in Miami," he wrote in a since-deleted tweet.Davis said he thought the term meant "lame," adding it was directed toward a producer."I'll retire that word from my vocabulary giving the hard times our Asian family are enduring," Davis said in his apology.

The Atlanta Falcons are open to dealing the fourth overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, Albert Breer of MMQB reports.Atlanta has had exploratory talks with teams looking up to move up in the draft, Breer adds.With quarterbacks expected to be selected with the first three picks of the draft, a team could acquire the Falcons' selection to secure the best-remaining signal-caller.Atlanta could also choose a passer to develop behind Matt Ryan if the team keeps the pick. However, the longtime Falcons quarterback holds cap hits of $26.9 million and $48.7 million for the next two seasons after he restructured his contract last month, according to Spotrac.A top-ranked position player such as Kyle Pitts could also be in play for Atlanta. Pitts, who's widely regarded as the best tight end in the 2021 class, previously said the Falcons expressed interest in selecting him.The draft has already seen significant movement. The San Francisco 49ers traded up to acquire the third overall pick from the Miami Dolphins.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Rumors concerning NFL prospects are swirling with just under a month until the 2021 draft, and Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields recently became the latest victim of anonymous criticism.ESPN analyst and former quarterback Dan Orlovsky caused controversy last week by suggesting he'd heard some teams were concerned about Fields' work ethic and "his desire to go be a great quarterback."But Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day came to his former player's defense this past weekend, saying he thinks "some people are being a little reckless with their comments.""The whole idea that he doesn't have a very good work ethic? I mean, to me, that's crazy," Day told Peter King of NBC Sports. "He got done with the Clemson game (the 2019 College Football Playoff loss), and he came back, and all he did was work to get back to that game. And when those other guys are opting out, what's he do? He petitions to have a season."He put together this petition that the Big Ten athletes all signed saying that they want to play, but they want to play safely and that they don't accept canceling the season. It was all led by Justin Fields. Where was everybody else? Where were the guys who were opting out then? You know, you don't love the game if you're doing something like that. This kid loves the game."Orlovsky told King that while his comments about Fields were based on the opinions of other individuals from NFL teams, he regrets failing to add the necessary context to the information he was passing on. He also said he talked to Fields to clear the air."I told him exactly what happened, said I wasn't good enough in that moment, and that's on me. He was like, 'I get it. It's OK. I watch, and I know you're someone who's had my back. I appreciate you calling me,'" Orlovsky said. "I felt like he was really mature, and I appreciated him hearing me out."Though Fields' stock has seemingly dropped during the draft process - with Zach Wilson becoming the clear favorite to be the New York Jets' pick at No. 2 overall and reports suggesting the San Francisco 49ers prefer Mac Jones at No. 3 - concerns about the ex-Buckeyes quarterback haven't centered around his work ethic.In fact, Fields wrapped up his college football career with arguably one of the most impressive displays of fortitude in recent memory.The 22-year-old took a huge hit to the ribs during the second quarter of his team's playoff game against Clemson, but he missed only one play and returned to throw four more touchdowns, outplaying Trevor Lawrence in a 49-28 victory.Fields suited up 10 days later in Ohio State's national title game loss to Alabama despite clearly not being fully healthy.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

For the second time in less than a month, a Tom Brady rookie card has shattered the record for the highest amount ever paid for a football card.An autographed Brady 2000 Playoff Contenders Championship Rookie Ticket card was auctioned off for over $2.25 million at Lelands, breaking the previous record of $1.32 million that another copy of the same card sold for in early March.Bidding on the card started at $75,000 and already reached $1.94 million with more than two weeks remaining in the auction.

Aaron Rodgers isn't taking the opportunity to host "Jeopardy!" lightly.The Green Bay Packers quarterback will serve as a guest host on the show for two weeks, replacing longtime host Alex Trebek, who died at the age of 80 in November following a battle with cancer.Preparing for the gig was no easy task for Rodgers."I watched hours and hours and hours of episodes," Rodgers told ESPN's Rob Demovsky. "Luckily Netflix has a few seasons, and I went back to DVR. But I had to watch from a different perspective - from Alex's perspective. I couldn't watch it as a fan anymore."I took pages and pages and pages of notes. I wrote down every affirmative that he said to any type of clue. I wrote down how he would respond if they didn't get it right. I wrote down beat points of the show. I wrote down all the different ways he would take it to break. I wrote down the stuff that he said coming out of break. Literally, I studied for this like no other. I wanted to absolutely just crush it."Rodgers filmed his 10 episodes over two days in January along with the other guest hosts. He anticipates some "viral moments" to come from his appearances."Just wait until you see the first show and what the returning champion wrote, and then think about me standing at the podium watching - and this will make sense when you see what he wrote - and I'm watching him write this down," Rodgers said. "For about 25 seconds, I'm watching him write this, and he thinks about the answer and says, 'F--- it,' basically, 'I'm going to write this answer,' which, probably one of the viral moments of my two weeks will be his response, which is taking a shot at something that happened to us late in the season."But it was unbelievable as the host, I'm watching him and going, 'I can't believe I'm watching him write this.' It was pretty amazing."Rodgers' first episode airs Monday, April 5.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

A complainant filed a criminal report against Deshaun Watson on Friday, and the Houston Police Department announced it's beginning an investigation into the Houston Texans quarterback.Watson's attorney, Rusty Hardin, released a statement shortly after the report filing was announced."We welcome this long-overdue development. Now we will learn the identity of at least one accuser. We will fully cooperate with the Houston Police Department," Hardin said, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.This is the first known criminal report filed against Watson, who's facing 21 lawsuits alleging sexual assault and inappropriate behavior.Attorney Tony Buzbee, who represents the 21 women suing Watson, said in a statement Friday he isn't involved in the criminal report filing process, according to Mark Berman of FOX 26. He also anticipates that more criminal complaints will follow, adding that the 22nd lawsuit against Watson was filed Friday.Buzbee previously announced that his clients won't be submitting evidence of alleged criminal misconduct against Watson to the Houston Police Department.The NFL also released a statement following the Houston Police Department's announcement."We are continuing to monitor all developments in the matter which remains under review of the personal conduct policy," the league said, according to Mark Maske of The Washington Post.Hardin recently released a statement with quotes from 18 women who say they worked with Watson, and they're defending the signal-caller.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.