Free-agent linebacker Connor Barwin expects to sign with a team before the start of training camps later this month. He's just going to choose his destination very carefully, with an emphasis on winning."We've had interest from a number of teams all offseason," Barwin said, according to SiriusXM NFL Radio. "The offers I have, I think I'll make my decision before camp starts. I'm not going to go somewhere that I don't think can win a Super Bowl."The 31-year-old was originally selected 46th overall by the Houston Texans in the 2009 draft. He spent his first four seasons with the Texans before joining the Philadelphia Eagles for four campaigns from 2013-16. He recorded a career-high 14.5 sacks in 2014 and was subsequently named to the Pro Bowl.The Eagles released Barwin in March 2017, in a move that cleared nearly $8 million in cap space. He then signed a one-year deal with the Los Angeles Rams and watched as his former team went on to win Super Bowl LII.With Los Angeles, Barwin played 14 games - including 13 starts - recording five sacks. He also started the Rams' postseason loss to the Atlanta Falcons.- With h/t to Pro Football TalkCopyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Former Seattle Seahawks cornerback Brandon Browner was charged with attempted murder and three other felony charges following a July 8 arrest, the La Verne Police Department announced Tuesday.Browner's other felony charges include robbery, burglary, and false imprisonment. He's also facing two misdemeanor charges of child endangerment.Police say the 33-year-old broke into an ex-girlfriend's house and threatened to kill her when she tried to escape. He also allegedly stole a Rolex watch valued at about $20,000. The woman had a restraining order against Browner.Browner is scheduled to be arraigned Tuesday. He faces a maximum sentence of life in prison if charged with first-degree attempted murder, and up to nine years for a second-degree charge.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Although he had no interest in suiting up for the Chargers, Eli Manning did keep the jersey the organization gave him after selecting him No. 1 overall in the 2004 NFL Draft.The New York Giants quarterback was asked about the jersey's whereabouts Tuesday during an appearance on "The Dan Patrick Show," and said he still has it."I think my mom had it for a little bit, and I think she tried to, you know, she's like, 'Well we don't need this,' and tried to give it away to somebody. I think my dad wised up and said, 'You know, let’s just hold onto that for a rainy day, might be a good story.' So, it's in possession," Manning told Patrick.Manning threatened to sit out the entire 2004 season if the Chargers drafted him. His father, Archie, was widely believed to have orchestrated the decision, but the elder Manning denied his involvement in a 2016 interview with "The Rich Eisen Show.""It was a decision that Eli and (his agent) Tom Condon kind of made, but Eli ultimately pulls the trigger on that. That's what he, doing his due diligence, decided to do," Archie said. "I can't say it was pleasant from my end. Most people thought I orchestrated it, which I didn't. I don't tell my kids what to do or make the decisions for 'em."Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Arizona Cardinals general manager Steve Keim misrepresented himself before his Fourth of July arrest on suspicion of DUI, the police report says.During his traffic stop, Keim said he was "director of security for the Arizona Cardinals," according to ESPN's Josh Weinfuss.Keim has held the role of GM since 2013.According to police, an officer saw Keim driving his pickup truck erratically at around 12:12 a.m. Wednesday. The officer observed him drifting out of his lane and nearly hitting a curb. Police pulled Keim over. According to the report, he was slurring his speech slightly, and one officer described a strong alcoholic odor. Keim said he had only consumed two beers.He was arrested, charged with a misdemeanor for DUI, and released shortly thereafter.Keim could be handed a fine or suspension from the NFL.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning is sounding optimistic about wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr.'s recovery from a broken ankle after throwing sessions between the two at last month's minicamp.Beckham was able to run full speed routes while continuing his recovery from the injury that ended his 2017 season in October. Manning says his No. 1 target is ready to reclaim that title."Odell looked healthy," Manning said, according to ESPN's Jordan Raanan. "He was running routes full speed, making cuts and seemed to be his old self. So I'm excited about that and that he can go out there and run all the routes."So, excited to get him back going once training camp hits up. And getting on the same page, there are always new routes and new tweaks to the offense. But I know he's been working hard and is going to have a big year."The Giants went 3-13 in 2017, with Beckham totaling 25 receptions for 302 yards and three touchdowns in four games. His absence contributed to Manning's 80.4 passer rating, his lowest mark since the 2013 season.Veterans will report to the Giants' training camp on July 25, and Beckham has already said he'll be in attendance.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Teams targeting Adonis Alexander in the NFL's supplemental draft received good news on Tuesday, as Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reports the former Virginia Tech defensive back had a clean drug test.The latest test is in addition to multiple samples that came back clean for Alexander over the last eight months. The standout defender took the tests to prove that his marijuana arrest from 2016 was a one-time incident and didn't indicate a pattern of behavior.Alexander was slated to return to Virginia Tech for the 2018 season but was ruled academically ineligible and opted to enter the supplemental draft.There hasn't been a player taken in the supplemental draft since the Los Angeles Rams selected Isaiah Battle in the fifth round in 2015, but Alexander and fellow defensive back Sam Beal are expected to be picked during Wednesday's event.Notable names selected in previous supplemental drafts include Josh Gordon in 2012 and Terrelle Pryor in 2011.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Le'Veon Bell's ongoing contract dispute with the Pittsburgh Steelers could come with both positives and negatives for the upcoming campaign, according to former teammate Ike Taylor."This is a good and bad situation for Le'Veon," Taylor said Monday, according to CBS Sports' Ryan Wilson. "Good meaning everything is guaranteed with his franchise tag. Bad meaning you don't know if you're going to be a Pittsburgh Steeler for life, something I know Le'Veon wants to do. And I know the Rooneys also want to work that deal out with Le'Veon."Related - Jerome Bettis: Steelers, Bell aren't as good without each otherThe Steelers applied the franchise tag to Bell this offseason for a second consecutive year. The one-year deal will pay him $14.544 million, according to Over The Cap.The two sides have until July 16 to come to terms on a multi-year contract.Taylor isn't worried about Bell skipping team workouts, something the running back did until Sept. 1, 2017 - just nine days before the season opener - before accepting the one-year tender. Bell went on to finish the regular season third in the NFL with 1,291 rushing yards."On the other hand, I'm preserving my body ... That's how I'm looking at it," said Taylor. "I'm missing training camp, you know I'm staying in shape, you know my physique, you know my body of work when I get on the field. That's they way I'm looking at Le'Veon."Related - Bell confident he'll reach deal with Steelers: 'We're working on it'Bell and Taylor spent two seasons together with the Steelers before the veteran cornerback retired at the conclusion of the 2014 campaign.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

(Warning: Story contains graphic image)A woman who identifies herself as Delicia Cordon's best friend says Buffalo Bills running back LeSean McCoy physically assaulted Cordon, his girlfriend.The woman posted a graphic image to Instagram on Tuesday showing a woman with a bloodied, swollen face next to a photo of Cordon that was posted the previous day.In the caption for the post which has since been taken down, the woman writes that McCoy abused his son and his dog as well. She also says McCoy used performance-enhancing drugs.McCoy released a statement Tuesday afternoon denying the "offensive claims."

At his introductory press conference, new Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper announced a new day has dawned on the franchise, but stark symbols of the past will remain.Tepper was asked if the 13-foot statue of former owner Jerry Richardson will continue to stand outside Bank of America Stadium."I'm contractually obligated to keep that statue as it is," Tepper said.Richardson, the founder of the franchise, agreed to sell the team in December after reports of his misconduct in the workplace came to light. The sale of the team to Tepper, for a reported cost of $2.2 billion, officially closed on Monday.Though the reminder of the past will stay, Tepper intends on running the franchise with a different vision."That was then. This is now," Tepper said. "I can't emphasize enough the openness I plan to have in this organization. There's going to be no impediment to that in the future."Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The night of the NFL draft can be highly dramatic for every fan base as the commissioner announces which college star will be joining their team.It turns out that Eli Manning was just like every other fan this year, as the New York Giants quarterback told Dan Patrick on Tuesday that he didn't know the club was taking Saquon Barkley with the No. 2 pick until it was announced."On draft night watching it live, that's when I found out," Manning told Patrick on his radio show. "Everyone is kind of tight-lipped during that time and you don't know exactly what's going to happen with the first pick. I didn't have any 100 percent insight as to what would go on."With the Giants having struggled to find a running back to complement the offense for years, selecting the former Penn State star was definitely a popular pick among fans, especially with those in the Manning household."There were a lot of Giants fans cheering, none more than my wife, jumping up and down excited that the Giants took a running back," Manning said, before joking about Barkley's impressive physical stature. "We have a similar physique, I probably squat a little bit more than him, but he's just a rookie."With Odell Beckham Jr. returning from injury and Barkley set to make his NFL debut, Manning will have a wealth of incredible playmakers at his disposal as he begins his 15th season with the Giants.The potential for the explosive offense is why New York is a prime candidate to go from basement-dwellers in the NFC East to a potential playoff team.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. and free-agent punter Brad Wing make an appearance in the music video for Nicki Minaj's new single "Bed," featuring Ariana Grande.Beckham and Wing appear toward the end of the video, joining the pop stars on a beach.

DeMarco Murray's days with the Tennessee Titans may be over, but thanks to his tenure with the club, he's as qualified as anybody to discuss the potential of Derrick Henry.The running back who replaced Murray in the starting lineup after the veteran was injured enters the 2018 campaign following an impressive 156-yard showing in the playoffs against the Kansas City Chiefs.Murray believes Titans fans can expect that type of production from Henry as long as the club can deploy the former Alabama star properly."I think Derrick's a smart guy. He's a fast guy, very physical, athletic, and now that I'm not there I think he can hone in on being the guy," Murray told ESPN's Adam Schefter. "If they use him the right way and if he can consistently be the every-down back, I think he has a great future, a bright future."Tennessee added former New England Patriots running back Dion Lewis in the offseason to complement Henry's rugged style, and the tandem could present an impressive one-two punch for the AFC South outfit.The Titans open the season Sept. 9 against the Miami Dolphins. Murray remains a free agent.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Arizona Cardinals president Michael Bidwill backed President Donald Trump's Monday night nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court in a letter sent to Senate leaders overseeing the process.Bidwill went to school with Kavanaugh and penned the letter along with Georgetown Prep alumni. Here's the full letter:

Due to the long layoff between NFL campaigns, memories of the previous year can easily become murky - especially the ones that don't seem real.Let's take a quick trip down memory lane to remind you of three statistics from the 2017 season that will make you wonder, "How in the hell?!"Boom-or-bust CamCam Newton is arguably the most unique player to ever line up under center thanks to his otherworldly athleticism and size. He does things that no other quarterback can do, as evidenced by his insane MVP year in 2015.But 2017 wasn't Newton's best season. He struggled to push the ball downfield and produced far too many turnovers. Yet, it's not until you examine his game-by-game statistics more closely that you realize just how extreme his campaign was from an inconsistency standpoint.Newton only had only one - I repeat, one - regular-season game in which he finished with a passer rating between 87 and 120, a range in which most quarterback's performances fall.Good CamBad Cam130.8 (Wk 4)87.3 (Wk 1)141.8 (Wk 5)83.9 (Wk 2)120.4 (Wk 10)43.8 (Wk 3)128.0 (Wk 15)48.5 (Wk 6)54.9 (Wk 7)66.4 (Wk 8)71.0 (Wk 9)59.8 (Wk 12)64.9 (Wk 14)65.4 (Wk 16)31.5 (Wk 17)For comparison's sake, fellow NFC South quarterbacks Matt Ryan and Drew Brees produced 10 and 13 such games, respectively.Additionally, Joe Flacco's overall 2017 passer rating was just 0.3 less than Newton's 80.7, but even he had a whopping nine games within the aforementioned range, which highlights how crazy it is that Newton only managed one.Seahawks really missed Beast ModeThe Seattle Seahawks' offense in 2017 was the Russell Wilson show, as the quarterback was forced to carry his unit like no other player in NFL history. The star pivot accounted for an NFL-record 86 percent of Seattle's offensive output, including a team-leading 588 rushing yards.But somehow, that stat isn't the most insane one to come from the unbalanced Seahawks attack.Not only did no Seattle player outside of Wilson score a rushing touchdown within an opponent's 10-yard line, but the entire group couldn't even gain positive yardage in that range despite 20 carries combined.

The New York Giants went through a nightmare 2017 season, and few players embodied their horrific campaign more than cornerback Eli Apple.Apple, a first-round selection in the 2016 NFL Draft, was embroiled in several controversies as the Giants struggled to a 3-13 year.He was fined for tweeting on the sideline during a December game. He was also suspended for the Giants' season finale due to conduct detrimental to the team, and teammate Landon Collins labeled Apple a "cancer" for his behavior throughout the year.Apple was offered a clean slate from new Giants general manager Dave Gettleman, and he seems to be embracing the second chance.“Nobody wants to go out the way I went out,” Apple said to Dan Salomone of the team's official website. "I mean, it was all over the place, so of course."Giants head coach Pat Shurmur, who replaced the fired Ben McAdoo, seems impressed by Apple's new approach."I think that it speaks to maturity and it speaks to owning successes and failures," Shurmur said. "We have to be willing to, OK, if a mistake happened, in order to move forward from a mistake or something that went wrong, we have to admit that it happened and that we were involved in it. What you do is you find a solution, you make the correction and you move on past. That is really what we do play to play. As professionals in this business, we do this probably game to game and season to season."Apple wasn't effective in 2017, finishing the year with a 73.6 grade from Pro Football Focus (ranked 72nd among cornerbacks). But he still managed 49 tackles and eight pass deflections in 11 games.Entering his third year, the 22-year-old is excited to lead a renewed effort from the Giants."I'm just trying to grow with the defense and get the techniques down that the coaches are teaching," Apple said. "Just keep a positive mindset because the whole team, the defensive guys, we know it’s going to be a grinding season."Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Warning: Story/tweets contain coarse languageNew York Giants defensive tackle A.J. Francis voiced his shock and displeasure with the Transportation Security Administration on Monday, saying agents who inspected his checked luggage spilled a container carrying the ashes of his recently-deceased mother onto his clothes.

Dallas Cowboys cornerback Marquez White faces a felony count of second-degree aggravated assault with a deadly weapon after pulling out a gun in October during an apparent road-rage incident, according to Tom Steele of The Dallas Morning News.“Me and my legal team believe strongly that this a personal attack on my image as well as the (Dallas Cowboys') star,” White wrote in a statement to the Dothan Eagle.White also claimed the other driver involved in the incident was following him closely, and later yelled threats and racial slurs after pulling his vehicle up next to him.The Cowboys selected the former Florida State defensive back in the sixth round of the 2017 draft. He spent his rookie campaign on Dallas' practice squad.White is currently free on a $7,500 bond.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Rob Gronkowski is reportedly likely to receive a contract extension from the New England Patriots, but with every passing day the deal doesn't get done, the greater the scrutiny surrounding his future in New England.The star tight end was apparently shopped three days prior to the 2017 NFL Draft, and until he signs on the dotted line with New England, some around the league believe he's still on the trade block."Where's the restructure of his contract?" an AFC personnel executive told Boston Sports Journal's Greg A. Bedard. "Until that's done, I think he's still available. I wouldn't be surprised if (head coach Bill) Belichick is going to test Gronk's buy-in with the contract."Related: Gronkowski: Who wouldn't want a new deal?Rumors of a rift between Gronkowski and Belichick have surfaced ever since the pass-catcher refused to rule out retirement following the team's Super Bowl loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.Gronkowski ultimately opted to return after a meeting with Belichick, but it hasn't stopped speculation that he might be moved despite producing a 1,084-yard, eight-touchdown campaign in 2017.- with h/t to WEEI Sports Radio NetworkCopyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Carolina Panthers announced Monday that the sale of the franchise to David Tepper officially closed."I am thrilled to begin this new era of Carolina Panthers football and am humbled by the overwhelming excitement and support for the team," Tepper said in a statement. "On behalf of the fans and myself, I thank Jerry Richardson for bringing the team to the Carolinas and for entrusting me with its future. Winning is the most important thing both on the field and in the community, and I am committed to winning a Super Bowl championship together. I look forward to being part of the Panthers' family and to supporting this flourishing region."Tepper is the founder and president of global hedge fund Appaloosa Management, L.P. He signed an agreement to purchase the team in May, with NFL owners approving the sale shortly thereafter during the league's spring meetings.Former owner Jerry Richardson had some parting words for the Panthers community.

After throwing a touchdown pass on a brilliant trick play in the Super Bowl, tight end Trey Burton opted to leave the Philadelphia Eagles and sign a four-year deal with the Chicago Bears in the offseason.Going from last season's Super Bowl champs to a team that finished last in the NFC North may have puzzled some, but Burton said Monday that the Bears and Eagles are much more similar than people think, starting from the coach on down."Matt Nagy was one of the top reasons why I signed in Chicago and a young QB in Mitchell Trubisky that could play at a high level," Burton said on Sirius XM. "Also, the offense is completely the same as what we were doing in Philadelphia and a lot of similar terminology."The Philadelphia ties to Chicago are strong. Nagy coached with the Eagles from 2008 to 2012 before moving with Andy Reid from the club to the Kansas City Chiefs, eventually becoming the team's offensive coordinator and taking over play-calling duties last season. Trubisky is a talented young pivot in the same vein as Carson Wentz.While the offenses may be "completely the same", as Burton claimed on Monday, whether the results mirror one another remain to be seen. The Eagles ranked second in the league in scoring last year, putting up 28.6 points per contest, while the Bears were 29th at just over 16 points per game.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

With NFL training camps opening in less than three weeks, there are a number of veteran free agents still looking for a job. That includes former All-Pro running back DeMarco Murray, who was released by the Tennessee Titans in March.Murray acknowledged a desire to play in 2018 when speaking to ESPN's Adam Schefter on his podcast, adding that he's had contact with a handful of teams."I've had a lot of discussions with four or five teams that I feel will be a great fit for me," the 30-year-old said, via Pro Football Talk's Josh Alper. "It's all about being transparent and, for me, I’m not looking to lead the league in rushing yards. Obviously I would work and do everything to give me the opportunity to do that, but it's all about having an opportunity to get to the playoffs and have an opportunity to win a championship."Murray reportedly visited with the Detroit Lions, Seattle Seahawks, and Miami Dolphins after his release. He also declined a group workout with the New Orleans Saints in June.The three-time Pro-Bowler rushed for 659 yards, six touchdowns, and a career-low 3.6 yards per carry with the Titans in 2017. He's eclipsed the 1,000-yard barrier three times during his seven-year career.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Free-agent tight end Brandon Pettigrew was arrested in Pittsburgh on Monday after police say he punched an officer in the chest three times, Shelly Bradbury of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.The 33-year-old was charged with two counts of aggravated assault, one count of theft of services, and one count of public drunkenness.The incident is said to have stemmed from Pettigrew's refusal to pay a $97 fare for a limousine ride to downtown Pittsburgh. The limo driver called the police, who said they found Pettigrew visibly intoxicated. After "aggressively arguing" with officers, Pettigrew punched officer Patrick Fornadel three times in the chest, according to a criminal complaint.Tasers were drawn but not used after Pettigrew allowed himself to be handcuffed. The interaction was captured by police bodycams.A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for July 18.Pettigrew, an eight-year veteran, last played in the NFL in 2015. He has recorded 2,965 career receiving yards and 17 touchdowns.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

By making Josh Allen the highest drafted quarterback in franchise history, it's pretty clear the Buffalo Bills view the former Wyoming standout as the future centerpiece.It's not expected that Allen will see much action during his rookie season, but the 6-foot-5, 237-pounder is already making a positive impact on coaches and teammates.One player he's impressed is star running back LeSean McCoy."He's good. He's smart. He's got a lot to learn of course," McCoy told Dominic LoVallo of the team's website. "He's thrown some passes that shouldn't have been thrown, but other than that, he's got a strong arm and is very intelligent. He's special that's for sure."McCoy, who admitted he's not usually a fan of rookies, continued talking about Allen's potential, even placing his talent in the same category as last year's star rookie Tre'Davious White."Last year if I was to name the best rookie out there it would've been Tre' (White)," McCoy said. "Tre' is really good. A lot of guys who are rookies are not like him. The quarterback (Allen) is on that level."At just 22 years of age, Allen will likely sit and learn the professional game behind AJ McCarron and Nathan Peterman this season, but, following this year, his talent will likely be too overwhelming to keep off the field.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Expect to see a leaner, quicker version of Leonard Fournette this year. The Jacksonville Jaguars star is looking to enter camp at 224 pounds, 11 pounds lighter than last year."I feel like I play my best at that weight - 223, 224 - that's what I played in college," the 23-year-old told John Reid of the Florida Times-Union. "I don't want to be average. I want to be above average, be the greatest one to play this game. I feel lighter, quicker and I have a lot of my burst."Fournette was the leading rusher on the league's top-ranked rushing offense in his rookie season, piling up 1,040 yards with nine touchdowns. Despite that success, the former LSU standout is looking to improve on his 3.9 yards per carry average.One of the reasons for Fournette's low yardage per carry is the fact he routinely faced defensive game plans designed to limit the Jaguars' rushing attack. With Blake Bortles under center, Jacksonville ranked 17th in the league in passing, not posing much of a threat to the opposition.The Jaguars added All-Pro guard Andrew Norwell in the offseason, a move that should open up more holes for Fournette in the interior running game.One only has to do a quick search of Fournette's highlights at LSU to see how explosive he can be at 224 pounds, and the Jaguars are certainly hoping his collegiate success at that weight translates to the pro ranks.Jacksonville opens the season on Sept. 9 against the New York Giants.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Former Seattle Seahawks cornerback Brandon Browner was arrested Sunday following a police chase in Azusa, Calif., according to Joe Studley and Shahan Ahmed of NBC Los Angeles.Browner was wanted for kidnapping, false imprisonment, burglary, grand theft auto, and violation of restraining order, the La Verne Police Department told NBC Los Angeles.Police say Browner broke into a house of an ex-girlfriend who has a restraining order against him, threatened to kill her, and stole a Rolex watch valued at about $20,000, according to The Associated Press.The 33-year-old was arrested on May 6 for battery and child endangerment and pleaded no contest. He was also previously arrested on drug charges last October.Browner spent 2011-13 with the Seahawks during the prime days of the Legion of Boom, earning a Pro Bowl nod in his first year in Seattle.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Nick Foles is now a New York Times best-selling author."Believe It: My Journey of Success, Failure and Overcoming the Odds," which the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback co-wrote with Joshua Cooley, debuted at No. 5 on the Times' Hardcover Nonfiction best-seller list. The book chronicles Foles' path to Super Bowl LII and how his faith has impacted his career.According to publisher Tyndale House, "Believe It" will also be on the best-seller lists of Publishers Weekly and USA Today once they're released.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Life as an NFL rookie can be difficult. As even the most casual fans know, not every first- and second-round pick creates instant impact for the teams that select them.This was no different during the 2017 season, as a number of high-profile rookies had campaigns to forget. Luckily for most, however, their talent is evident and they'll have every opportunity to rebound as sophomores.Here are five second-year players that will turn their careers around in 2018 after struggling out of the gate:Solomon Thomas, San Francisco 49ersWe begin with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2017 draft. Thomas was a force in in his final season at Stanford, dominating against the run and rushing the passer. His success did not translate to the pros as a rookie, however. Playing primarily at defensive end, the 49ers defender accumulated just three sacks in his first NFL campaign, including just one in San Francisco's final eight contests.Part of the issue was that Thomas was playing out of position. The majority of his collegiate production came as an interior defender. While his 280-lb. frame isn't ideal for full-time life at defensive tackle, the former First team All-Pac-12 lineman can be a dangerous interior rusher on passing downs. Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh just didn't ask Thomas to do enough of this in 2017. A slight schematic alteration would do wonders for the talented defender, as he already possesses a number of traits to be a successful NFLer.Cam Robinson, Jacksonville JaguarsJacksonville made Robinson the 34th-overall pick in 2017 and immediately anointed him as their starting left tackle. The results were uninspiring. Although the former Crimson Tide lineman surrendered just two sacks as a rookie (per Pro Football Focus), he allowed a number of pressures and was flagged 15 times. Perhaps most surprisingly, Robinson also struggled in the run blocking department, an area which he dominated at Alabama.Despite his first-year struggles, Robinson is ready to bounce back in his second campaign. The addition of left guard Andrew Norwell to the Jaguars' blocking unit - an upgrade over Patrick Omameh - will provide stability on the left side, allowing Robinson to focus on his individual assignments. The former All-American also battled multiple injuries in 2017. A clean bill of health combined with the improved supporting cast and a year of NFL experience will result in a more comfortable season for Robinson. This could mean trouble for opposing edge-rushers.Haason Reddick, Arizona CardinalsThe Cardinals had high hopes for Reddick after selecting the versatile defender No. 13 overall. Similar to Solomon Thomas, the former Temple edge-rusher played out of position in 2017, struggling as a result. Reddick started at inside linebacker for Arizona's first three games, but shifted to outside linebacker after Markus Golden tore his ACL in Week 4. Profiling as an off-ball linebacker in the draft - despite playing defensive end in college - the rookie was overwhelmed on the edge due in part to his 235-lb. frame.With Golden returning to the fold in 2018, Reddick will return to a more comfortable position. Under new head coach Steve Wilks, the Cardinals will utilize a 4-3 defense, with the young defender featuring at strong-side linebacker. This is a perfect position for the second-year pro, as he'll be able to attack running lanes (Reddick was a solid run defender as a rookie), cover tight ends, and rush the quarterback on occasional blitzes. Reddick is an incredible athlete who is still fairly new to the position, so expect him to break out in his second season playing a position where the action will primarily be in front of him.Corey Davis, Tennessee TitansOf the three first-round receivers from last year's draft, Davis is the safest bet to explode in 2018. Selected No. 5 overall by the Titans, Davis' rookie campaign was a huge disappointment, as he battled injuries and struggled with route running. Tennessee's offense had difficulty scoring points in 2017, leading to head coach Mike Mularkey's firing in January.Expect the Titans' offense to improve this season under new coordinator Mat LaFleur, and with it their talented receiver. LaFleur was one of the architects behind the Los Angeles Rams' offensive turnaround under Sean McVay, due in large part to simplicity and aggressive play-calling. Easily the most explosive and talented receiver on Tennessee's roster, Davis is the FBS' all-time leader in receiving yards for a reason. His intriguing combination of size, speed, and strong hands will be difficult for opposing cornerbacks to defend in 2018. Davis is also as healthy as he's been in well over a year and his sophomore production should illustrate this.Jarrad Davis, Detroit LionsIn truth, the second Davis on our list had a stronger rookie campaign than his four peers; he was just a victim of having too much on his plate as a first-year defender. The No. 21 overall pick in 2017, Davis was stout in run defense, but struggled mightily in coverage under former defensive coordinator Teryl Austin.New head coach Matt Patricia's hiring will be a breath of fresh air for the second-year linebacker. Davis was one of college football’s highest-impact defenders while at Florida, displaying efficient tackling skills and fluidity in space. Patricia could deploy him in a similar fashion to that of Dont'a Hightower with the New England Patriots, allowing Davis to revert back to an attacking brand of football he thrived in.(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Newton family has grown by one.Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton and longtime girlfriend Kia Proctor welcomed their third child together Friday, a baby boy whose name has yet to be revealed. Proctor announced the news on Instagram.

The Indianapolis Colts endured a rough 2017 season. They finished 4-12 and were without star quarterback Andrew Luck due to his surgically repaired shoulder.With a second-year general manager, first-year head coach, and young roster, many expect the Colts to begin a rebuild in 2018, even with a potentially healthy Luck under center. Sophomore safety Malik Hooker, however, believes the team can complete a quick turnaround."I'm definitely the guy that I feel like we're capable of winning now," Hooker said, via Colts.com's Andrew Walker. "We've got a lot of great players, a lot of good players coming back (from injury) as well. So I feel like this year, we've got a young, fast and good, physical team, so I feel like we're definitely capable of winning now."Indianapolis selected Hooker No. 15 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft after an incredible redshirt sophomore campaign at Ohio State. The ball-hawking safety accumulated three interceptions in six starts before a torn ACL ended his season in Week 7.When Hooker returns to the field, he'll join second-year players Quincy Wilson and Nate Hairston as key members of the Colts' young pass defense. With a year under their belt, the defensive back believes the group will be a key factor in the team's ascension in 2018."I definitely feel like we're a group that can take that next (step)," Hooker said. "A lot of us were dealing with injuries last year week in and week out, and I feel like this is just a fresh start for us. The offseason is time for you to get your body ready for the season, and I feel like we’re doing a great job of that right now. So I definitely feel like we can take the next step in being a great secondary this year."Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Arizona Cardinals general manager Steve Keim is facing a potential fine and suspension stemming from his DUI on July 4, a source told Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio.The duration of the possible suspension and the magnitude of the fine are both unknown at this time, Florio added, as punishments for front-office employees aren't as clear-cut in the NFL as they are for players. Keim's blood-alcohol concentration - which isn't currently known - will likely influence the outcome.If recent history is any indication, the league and teams handle similar incidents for executives on a per-case basis. The Denver Broncos suspended executives Matt Russell and Tom Heckert for 30 days after separate DUI incidents in 2013. In 2014, the NFL suspended Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay for six games and fined him $500,000 for driving while impaired.Keim has been the Cardinals' general manager since 2013.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Los Angeles Rams running back Todd Gurley is feeling increased pressure to win now that LeBron James is in town.Gurley spoke about the impact James joining the Los Angeles Lakers will have on the Rams and himself Saturday during an appearance on the "PFT PM" podcast with Mike Florio."Once I heard about the LeBron signing, it just kind of made me wanna go out and just work out," Gurley said. "The guy's been to the Finals the last seven, eight years so that's coming to the city. The NBA Finals is coming to the city. That's what LeBron brings."... The Dodgers, who went to the World Series last year, and then you got a guy like LeBron, it just kind of motivates you as a player and as a team. You don't wanna be the only team not making the playoffs or the Super Bowl or the World Series. So it's definitely a motivational thing."Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Terrell Owens may be skipping the Pro Football Hall of Fame induction ceremony, but he did get a gift for the rest of the 2018 class.The former NFL wide receiver took to social media Friday to show off the custom Vans shoes he had made for fellow inductees Ray Lewis, Randy Moss, Brian Urlacher, Brian Dawkins, Jerry Kramer, Bobby Beathard, and Robert Brazile.

Atlanta Falcons rookie running back Ito Smith has gained a new fan in Lance Ito, the judge who famously presided over the O.J. Simpson murder trial in the 1990s.Smith, whose given first name is Romarius, told ESPN's Vaughn McClure he earned the nickname Ito after his cousin Brittney Smith, who was 4 years old at the time, proclaimed, "That little baby looks just like the judge off TV" in the hospital room."I guess she had been watching the trial with her grandmother," Smith said. "And everybody in the family has been calling me Ito ever since."Judge Ito, now retired, was unaware of the connection. Although he's a lifelong Los Angeles Rams fan, he said he'll be rooting for the rookie."I was unaware of the existence of a pro football prospect by the name of 'Ito' Smith," the judge said. "Having looked him up and discovering he is a handsome and talented fellow, certainly not a bad thing. Pro football is a tough business, and I wish him a long and healthy career."Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Julio Jones has three years left on his contract, but that hasn't stopped him from demanding a new one.How should the Atlanta Falcons proceed with the five-time Pro Bowl wideout? Let's debate:Pay the manThe Falcons likely didn't envision this scenario when they signed their star playmaker to a five-year, $71.25-million extension in the summer of 2015. But three seasons in, Jones is unhappy with his deal, to the extent that it kept him away from the team's minicamp in June.It's not hard to see why Jones has grown disheartened. While he was made the highest-paid receiver in the game upon signing his deal, he's since been surpassed by lesser players. Sammy Watkins and Jarvis Landry are among the seven wideouts that make more annually, and Allen Robinson isn't far off.Yet, no matter how poor the timing of Jones' holdout, the Falcons would be wise to nip this in the bud before the season gets underway. Atlanta hopes to remain a contender in the uber-competitive NFC, and a return to the Super Bowl is predicated on having Jones in the lineup.Julio was a force in the 2017 playoffs, catching nine balls in each of the Falcons' postseason contests, helping Atlanta come within two yards of defeating the eventual Super Bowl-champion Philadelphia Eagles in the divisional round.It certainly wouldn't hurt for the team to flatter its best player. The Pittsburgh Steelers restructured Antonio Brown's contract and the New England Patriots are in the midst of doing the same to keep Rob Gronkowski happy. Surely, the Falcons can find some middle ground in which Jones sees more guarantees and the team finds more cap room.It would be in Atlanta's best interests to get a deal done with Jones before Odell Beckham Jr. resets the market at the position with the new contract he covets.- Michael McClymontWait it outAs cruel as it may sound, the NFL is a business and it's simply not in the Falcons' best interest to shell out more money to a 29-year-old receiver with three years left on his deal.As great as he is, Jones won't be able to sustain his current pace forever. Given his age and history of lower-body injuries, Atlanta has reason to believe his best days will soon be found in the rearview mirror, and guaranteeing him additional money down the road could later backfire.After all, Jones isn't the only Falcon seeking a new deal. Left tackle Jake Matthews, defensive end Vic Beasley, and linebacker Deion Jones are among the younger core players scheduled to hit free agency before the disgruntled wideout, and none will come cheap.The Falcons have an unwritten policy of not dishing out contract extensions with players who are multiple years away from free agency. If they didn't make an exception for franchise quarterback Matt Ryan, why should they treat Jones differently?Even if Jones' holdout continues into the fall, there's no way he's going to skip a large portion of the regular season - three times over. And if he misses a few games in September, Atlanta has the offensive weapons to overcome it.Obviously, keeping Jones happy and in Atlanta is ideal, but the Falcons would be unwise to overreact to his demands if it means hamstringing themselves in the future.- Alex ChippinCopyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Arizona Cardinals general manager Steve Keim was cited for driving under the influence on July 4, Chandler police confirmed to KTAR News 92.3."We are aware of the incident on Wednesday involving Steve Keim," the Cardinals said Saturday in a statement. "He fully recognizes the seriousness of the situation and that this type of behavior is unacceptable and inexcusable."Steve immediately alerted the team who in turn reported it to the NFL as required under the league's Personal Conduct Policy. We are continuing to gather information and will handle the matter appropriately and in accordance with all league policies as well as within the legal system."Keim, who's been the Cardinals' general manager since 2013, was released by authorities the same night he was cited. The Cardinals have taken a hard stance against similar incidents in the past, and in 2016 released wideout Michael Floyd following a DUI arrest."I truly regret my incredibly poor judgment and inexcusable actions," Keim said in a statement. "Everyone associated with the NFL and its teams is held to a high standard of behavior and I obviously failed to meet that. I sincerely apologize to our organization and its fans as well as to my family. I accept full responsibility for my actions and hold myself completely accountable. Moving forward, I will take the steps to ensure that I never put myself or the Cardinals in this type of situation again."Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Hometown returns have yet to prove kind to Jay Ajayi, but the running back is intent on changing that in 2018 when his Philadelphia Eagles go across the pond."This will be my third time coming to Wembley (Stadium in London, England)," he told James Simpson of Sky Sports. "I've lost the last two, so I'm due for a win. It's time."Ajayi made two trips to London as a member of the Miami Dolphins. He didn't play in a 27-14 loss to the New York Jets in 2015 and rushed for 46 yards in a 20-0 defeat to the New Orleans Saints in 2017. His third visit will feature a matchup with the Jacksonville Jaguars on Oct. 28."Yeah, they have a great defense," Ajayi said of the Jags. "They do a lot of things well, a lot of great pieces on there. But I'm excited about that challenge and I'm excited about the team that I'm on and us being able to rise to that."Unlike his previous two returns, Ajayi will come home this year as a Super Bowl champion. The 25-year-old rushed for 408 yards and a touchdown in seven regular-season outings for the Eagles last year after being acquired from the Dolphins at the trade deadline.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Denver Broncos head coach Vance Joseph could be on the hot seat with another trying season and knows he needs to adapt on the fly.During Joseph's first year with the team, the Broncos slumped to a 5-11 record, missing the playoffs for the second consecutive season. After beginning the campaign 3-1, the Broncos lost eight consecutive games and Joseph is aware he can't afford another mid-season slump."You’re going to have adversity in this league,” Joseph said, via Nicki Jhabvala of The Athletic. "Every team last year had adversity - even Philly, who won a championship. They lost their tackle, they lost their quarterback, so it’s my job and the coaches’ jobs to fix it quicker. That (is something) we have to do in this league. It’s going to be hard times. It’s not going to be all roses next year. Absolutely, it’s going to be hard times. It’s my job to fix it quicker."The Broncos still have a defense brimming with talent, led by Von Miller, Chris Harris, Brandon Marshall, and Bradley Roby, and the team appeared to find a temporary solution at quarterback by signing Case Keenum to a two-year, $36-million deal. If plans go awry, however, Joseph will need to have a contingency plan or could see himself looking over his shoulder come January.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Earlier this offseason, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers seemed like a trendy pick to be a surprise team in 2018.There are a few teams every year that far exceed expectations, like the Buffalo Bills earning a postseason berth for the first time since 1999 last season, or the Rams increasing their win total by seven games compared to 2016 in their return to Los Angeles.The Bucs, a team that won just four games last year, added some major artillery to their defensive line through the draft and free agency (most notably, signing Vinny Curry and Beau Allen, trading for Jason Pierre-Paul, and drafting Vita Vea). They did that while already boasting some potent offensive firepower supplied by Mike Evans, DeSean Jackson, and 2017 first-round pick O.J. Howard.But their optimistic offseason hit the skids last week with the announcement that quarterback Jameis Winston has been suspended for the first three games of the 2018 season for violating the league’s personal conduct policy.A female Uber driver alleged Winston groped her in Scottsdale, Ariz., on March 1, 2017. Despite Winston’s denials, the league concluded after its investigation he touched the driver without her consent, and the quarterback didn’t appeal the decision.The suspension raises all sorts of questions about the futures of both Winston, whose off-field transgressions go back to college, and the Bucs, a franchise that hasn't made the postseason since 2007, now the NFL’s second-longest drought. Tampa was banking on Winston to keep his head on straight and help the team climb back into the national conversation for the first time since the Jon Gruden era.The Buccaneers gambled on Winston in 2015, selecting him with the No. 1 overall pick out of Florida State ahead of Marcus Mariota, who was taken second overall by the Tennessee Titans following his Heisman-winning year. Winston's accuracy and passer rating have improved in each of his three seasons, although his 15 fumbles led the league last year, and the best record Tampa Bay has managed with him under center is 9-7.Any chance the Bucs had to survive an NFC South in 2018 that features two MVP quarterbacks (Cam Newton and Matt Ryan) and another passer who’s made 11 Pro Bowls and is a Super Bowl MVP (Drew Brees) rested on Winston’s ability to emerge as a Pro Bowl-level pivot.Mariota, whose squeaky-clean past convinced the Titans to turn down offers for the No. 2 pick, has already led Tennessee into the postseason and won his first playoff game.But the Bucs will be without their franchise cornerstone for a brutal three-game stretch to open the season in 2018 that starts against the defending NFC South-champion New Orleans Saints, and it continues with clashes against the Super Bowl-champion Philadelphia Eagles and the Pittsburgh Steelers, a perennial AFC powerhouse.Veteran backup Ryan Fitzpatrick started three games for the Buccaneers last year and played most of another in place of an injured Winston. The team went 2-2 in Winston’s absence, but it’s safe to say the Bucs aren’t thrilled that Fitzpatrick, at 35 years old, will be leading the huddle when the season opens Sept. 6 in the Superdome.It’s even safer to surmise that Winston and the Bucs will face a major crossroad soon. Tampa Bay could have extended Winston’s contract this offseason, but instead, the front office chose to funnel money into free-agent/trade additions Pierre-Paul, Curry, and Allen, and extensions for Evans and tight end Cameron Brate.But the Bucs exercised the fifth-year option on Winston for 2019, a price tag of $20.9 million. Will they be willing to fork over that hefty sum if he doesn’t get his act together, both on and off the field? Despite his statistical improvements, Winston’s record is 18-27, and his 31 career fumbles point to carelessness.The Bucs made an unpopular move by firing head coach Lovie Smith following the 2015 season, even after the team’s win total jumped four games. He was replaced by offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter, who hasn’t maximized Winston’s talents or coaxed enough consistency from his most important player.Winston's peaks and valleys are remarkable. Last year, his completion percentage fell below 60 percent in six games, and there were four weeks in which he completed 70-plus percent of his throws. He recorded three three-touchdown games, but also two three-interception games. His worst and best games came against the same team: A 49.2 passer rating against the Panthers in Tampa on Oct. 29, and a 131.1 rating during the rematch Dec. 24 in Charlotte.Winston's suspension gives the Bucs another reason to wonder if he’s learned anything from well-documented troubles at Florida State, which included an accusation of raping a woman at his apartment. Charges were never brought against him. With the Seminoles, Winston was suspended twice - once from the baseball team and once from the football team - for off-field incidents.The Bucs have won just 20 games in three years since deciding Winston’s history of misbehaving wasn’t enough of a deterrent to pass on him at No. 1 overall. In the three years before Winston’s arrival, the Bucs won 13 games, an average of about four annually. The Bucs were probably expecting more of an improvement by the time Winston entered his third season, and definitely by his fourth.Winston is walking a major tightrope with his most recent suspension. If he doesn’t make significant life changes, the 24-year-old won’t be around very long, and perhaps not long enough to collect his $20.9 million in 2019.And if he continues down his current path, the Buccaneers will be left restarting and looking for their next savior.Geoff Mosher is an award-winning sports reporter, radio host, and TV personality with more than 20 years of experience covering all major sports and leagues. He also hosts regularly on 97.5 The Fanatic in Philadelphia and co-hosts "The Sports Shop" on Facebook. You can find him on Twitter @GeoffMosherNFL.(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The helmet Eli Manning wore in Super Bowl XLII, where the New York Giants pulled off the upset against the undefeated New England Patriots, is en route to the auction block, according to ESPN's Darren Rovell.The piece of equipment was a source of scrutiny in the lawsuit against Manning that was settled over the spring. Its holder, Eric Inselberg, said Manning and the Giants gave him helmets they said were "game-worn" but were actually never used."This is a very significant piece," said Goldin Auctions president Ken Goldin. "Bidding for this will definitely surpass $130,000."The most expensive Super Bowl helmet sold via auction was the one former Pittsburgh Steelers star James Harrison wore during Super Bowl XLIII, which went for $53,775 in 2012.A helmet worn by Rudy Ruettiger at Notre Dame in the 1970s was sold last year for $126,500.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The retirement of four prominent NFL referees has resulted in the promotion of four officials.Following the departures of Ed Hochuli, Jeff Triplette, Gene Steratore, and Terry McAulay, the NFL announced its list of officials for the 2018 season, including new referees Shawn Hochuli, Alex Kemp, Clay Martin, and Shawn Smith.Related - Former NFL officials: League could face issues in 2018 with 4 refs retiringFormer official Mike Pereira believes it'll be a difficult transition period for the league."I've never been involved in a season where you went with four new referees, and four referees that really haven't been around the league that long," Pereira told the Boston Globe's Ben Volin. "And first-year referees aren't eligible for playoffs, so you're going to dig deeper into the remaining stash of referees. That could create a problem, too."The newly announced list also includes seven first-year officials among the group of 121.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence, who signed his one-year franchise tender earlier this offseason, is seeking a five-year deal in extension talks, a source told The Athletic's Calvin Watkins.Lawrence and the Cowboys will reportedly meet next week and attempt to work out a long-term agreement. The two parties have until July 16 to reach an extension, per franchise tag rules.Lawrence, 26, is coming off a breakout campaign with Dallas, posting a career-high 14.5 sacks in 16 games. He registered nine sacks over the previous 32 games of his career.If he doesn't receive a new contract, Lawrence will earn $17.1 million from the Cowboys in 2018 and then - barring another franchise tag - hit the open market.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The new-look Cleveland Browns are hoping to avoid being a perpetual punchline and receiver Jarvis Landry believes Tyrod Taylor is at the forefront of this effort.Both Landry and Taylor were acquired on March 9 in separate trades involving the Miami Dolphins and Buffalo Bills, respectively.Although the Browns selected Baker Mayfield first overall in the 2018 draft, Taylor has been repeatedly assured as the starter, and Landry believes he's going to bring the club out of the AFC North basement."Amazing," Landry said of Taylor on NFL Network's "Rich Eisen Show" on Thursday. "Amazing, man. His leadership, his arm, his accuracy and he's ready, man. He's the starting quarterback, and I'm sure that, obviously, the decision is up to (head coach) Hue (Jackson) and the offensive staff, and stuff like that. But I'm sure they've been highly impressed with he's done through OTAs and minicamp."Mayfield is projected as the Browns' future savior but Landry believes the reigning Heisman Trophy winner would be served well under Taylor's tutelage."He sees it as an opportunity for him to grow at the position," Landry said of Mayfield. "A guy like Tyrod, who's been to the Super Bowl, who took a Buffalo team that hasn't been to the playoffs to the playoffs, he can learn a lot from Tyrod. At the same time, I think it's a competition, but I think it's true at the same time both guys are definitely qualified for the job."Until the Browns can prove it on the field, they'll be considered among the league's bottom-feeders, but after an aggressive offseason, it may not be business as usual for much longer.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New York Giants cornerback Janoris Jenkins issued his first public comments Thursday about the death of Roosevelt Rene, the man discovered deceased at Jenkins' New Jersey home in June.Jenkins' brother, William, was charged with aggravated manslaughter. No other concrete details about the incident have emerged.

Oakland Raiders cornerback Gareon Conley has filed a counter lawsuit against a woman who said he raped her last year, claiming the investigation and her lawsuit cost him "millions of dollars" and endorsement deals, according to Paul Gutierrez of ESPN.Conley slipped to No. 24 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft after the woman said he raped her. The cornerback was viewed as a near-lock to be a top-10 pick before his name surfaced in a police report the week of the event.A grand jury dismissed the case without charges last July. However, the woman filed a civil suit on April 6, saying she "sustained serious physical, psychological, emotional, and mental injuries" in her encounter with Conley.Conley's claim argues the woman "instituted and continued the criminal prosecution of Conley with malice ... because she was upset that Conley refused to have sex with her, or to position her to be able to squeeze a pay-off from Conley, or both."The second-year cornerback is seeking damages of at least $25,000.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Get ready for your season with theScore's 2018 Fantasy Football Draft Kit.The discount on players facing early-season bans can be the key to a fantasy championship, but the grass isn't always greener on the other side of a suspension - just ask anyone who owned Doug Martin or Willie Snead in 2017.Let's take a look at a few of the most prominent fantasy players who will be serving suspensions to see if they're worth the wait. We're leaving Jameis Winston out of the conversation due to the depth at the quarterback position.Aaron Jones, PackersSuspended 2 games (Substance abuse)We begin with the most recent suspension, which conveniently leaked the afternoon before the July 4 holiday. Jones isn't an established fantasy star like the other names on this list, but he flashed elite skills during an injury-shortened rookie campaign and was heading into training camp, at worst, on even ground with teammates Jamaal Williams and Ty Montgomery.The ban is particularly disappointing after Jones reshaped his body in the offseason, strengthening his legs in an attempt to avoid future injuries and improve his pass protection - two things that could have helped him win the lead back job. Hopefully, the marijuana-related traffic charge was a rookie mistake and not a sign that off-field issues are seriously threatening to derail his promising career.Fantasy outlook: Two games isn't a fantasy death sentence for Jones, especially since he'll avoid tough outings against the Bears' underrated defense and a shutdown Vikings squad. That positions him perfectly to kick-start the team's running game upon his return in Week 3, assuming the Packers' coaching staff is ready to welcome him back with open arms. Even if it takes a few weeks, Jones remains Green Bay's best running back, and over time, he'll ascend to the top of their backfield. Take advantage of the discount and scoop him up a few rounds later, between the ninth and 11th.Early-season replacement: Williams will have a chance to secure starting duties if he can make a strong impression over the first two weeks. He doesn't have Jones' elite ceiling though, and with a rising ADP, Williams' standalone value over a full season is much less exciting. If you can pair him with Jones, you're guaranteed a starting back in one of the league's most successful offenses, all for the cost of a seventh- and a ninth-rounder, respectively. (Montgomery, meanwhile, is worth a dart throw in PPR leagues, but has struggled to produce when given a full workload.)Julian Edelman, PatriotsSuspended 4 games (PEDs)We haven't seen Edelman in game action since the 2016 season, making it easy to forget how prolific he's been for fantasy owners. From 2013-16, Edelman averaged 6.5 receptions, 69.6 yards, and .36 touchdowns per game over 55 contests. Over full 16-game seasons, that translates to 104 receptions, 1,114 yards, and 6 TDs per year.Even with those lofty totals, investing in a 32-year-old slot receiver coming off a torn ACL was a tough sell prior to the suspension. With the news he'll miss almost a third of the fantasy regular season, his ADP has fallen outside the top 30 receivers, and will likely continue to slide as the busy draft season arrives in August.Fantasy outlook: Once he's back in the lineup, Edelman will be a productive player catching passes from Tom Brady. However, his days of delivering at a high-end PPR clip are in jeopardy unless injuries befall the New England receiving corps. Edelman has played alongside Rob Gronkowski his entire career, but Chris Hogan showed No. 1 receiver chops before injuries knocked him out for most of the second half of 2017. Edelman will have games where Brady leans on him heavily, but the offense no longer requires him to see the kind of target volume that made him a PPR star.Early-season replacements: Several Patriots will step in as the next man up during Edelman's absence, but Jordan Matthews has the best odds of actually turning in startable performances. Matthews served as a viable slot receiver as a member of the Eagles, posting 1,869 yards and 16 touchdowns over his first two NFL campaigns. Catching passes from Brady will give Matthews an opportunity to duplicate that productive pace for a short time, making him an intriguing option at the end of drafts.Mark Ingram, SaintsSuspended 4 games (PEDs)Ingram kept pace with rookie superstar Alvin Kamara in 2017, as the duo finished with the fifth- and sixth-most fantasy points among running backs. It was Ingram's third straight season as a fantasy RB1, and he appeared poised to continue the impressive run. Missing the first four games could cost Ingram more than just his streak.With Kamara emerging as one of the most dynamic ball carriers in the league and Ingram facing unrestricted free agency in 2019, the veteran's role is no longer guaranteed. We mentioned Snead in the intro - a player who came back from suspension only to be relegated to a bit part in the Saints' offense. Head coach Sean Payton, who has been tough on Ingram in the past, may decide to start the transition away from him sooner than expected.Fantasy outlook: Ingram will be a polarizing selection in this year's fantasy drafts. Due to his body of work, he warrants consideration in the late second or early third round, but his suspension has pushed his ADP to the four-five turn. It's possible he instantly reclaims his half of the Kamara-Ingram tandem that proved bountiful for fantasy owners a year ago. It's equally possible that Kamara seizes control of the backfield in September and Ingram's touches are limited when he returns. Kamara's immense talent and the uncertainty that comes with drafting a suspended player make Ingram too much of a risk at his current price.Early-season replacements: Jonathan Williams, Trey Edmunds, and Boston Scott are the main contenders to spell Kamara early in the year. Williams teased game-breaking potential during his rookie season with the Bills, but has bounced around since, briefly landing in Denver before being signed by the Saints last November. He has the size (6-foot, 223-pounds) and explosiveness to complement Kamara and should be viewed as a late-round flier who could turn into an early-season flex option.(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Fresh off his second-place finish in MVP voting last season, Todd Gurley is one of the NFL's young superstars looking to break the bank in the foreseeable future.But Gurley isn't simply focusing on his own payday; the Los Angeles Rams running back wants all players to have secure financial futures through guaranteed contracts.Asked by TMZ Sports about how players can force the league to hand over such deals, Gurley succinctly said, "Lockout in a couple of years," referring to the next collective bargaining agreement negotiations, which are set to take place after 2021.A lockout appears to be a serious possibility. NFL Players Association executive director DeMaurice Smith warned players to begin preparing for a strike after the current deal runs out, calling a lockout a "virtual certainty."The NFL is the only league among the U.S.'s major four sports that doesn't give out fully guaranteed deals to the vast majority of its players. Kirk Cousins earned the first in NFL history in free agency this offseason, signing a three-year, $84-million contract with the Minnesota Vikings.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

After beginning his rookie season on the bench last year, Mitchell Trubisky heads into his sophomore campaign as the undisputed starter on the Chicago Bears.That job security brings added confidence to any player, and Trubisky's teammates have noticed a positive change in the former North Carolina standout's demeanor."He asserted himself last year, but I definitely feel like a lot more people are listening to him," said running back Jordan Howard. "He has a lot greater command of the locker room ... because he's the quarterback for sure now."The Bears have made a significant investment in their offense to aid Trubisky, hiring former quarterback Matt Nagy as their head coach, and Mark Helfrich as their offensive coordinator. The NFC North club has also beefed up its receiving weapons on offense with the additions of Allen Robinson, Taylor Gabriel, Trey Burton, and Anthony Miller.Despite a number of injuries to his receiving core last season, Trubisky steadily improved throughout the year, finishing with 2,193 yards passing and seven touchdowns.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Jared Allen is making his presence felt in Nashville.After relocating to the city last year, the retired sack master spent time with the Tennessee Titans earlier this offseason to help the team with its pass-rushing expertise."Anything we can get around our players that can help us, great," new head coach Mike Vrabel said. "Having an idea of things he could do to help our team and to help our players, we were able to get him out here and work with some guys in the Phase 2 program where a lot of that is individual drills and position specific development."The Titans ranked fifth in the NFL last season with 43 sacks as a team. With the defensive-minded Vrabel now in charge, you can expect even more emphasis on that side of the football this season.Consider veteran linebacker Derrick Morgan on board with the decision to have Allen and his 136 career sacks around the team, as the 29-year-old was quick to praise the former Minnesota Vikings star."He moved to the area and wanted to talk pass rush, so why not from one of the all-time greats?," Morgan said. "We looked at some film from last year, and he was able to break down things and critique different techniques. I learned a lot from him in 60 minutes."The Titans open the season on Sept. 9 versus the Miami Dolphins.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Before launching his own professional football league, WWE chairman Vince McMahon was apparently interested in purchasing an NFL team.On a recent episode of the "Something To Wrestle With" podcast, former WWE producer Bruce Pritchard discussed rumors that McMahon considered buying the Minnesota Vikings when the team was put up for sale in 1998."We didn't know what the hell he was talking about really at first," Prichard said (starts at the 35-minute mark of the podcast). "More than anything it was a publicity stunt, because they were floating out there that the Vikings were up for sale and Vince floated it out there that he was interested in it."And I dare say that had the price been right, he might've even bought the damn thing for publicity purposes to say, 'OK, the WWF just bought the Minnesota Vikings and Vince McMahon is now entering the football arena.' So it worked, got people talking."McMahon launched the XFL in 1999, which led to the league's lone season in 2001. The second iteration of the XFL is set to begin play in February 2020, and will reportedly cost McMahon close to $500 million over the first three years.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.