Twitter users were quick to share their opinions on the NFL's anthem policy upon its announcement Wednesday.Related: NFL won't require players to be on field for anthem; teams can be fined for protestsPlayers and fans alike shared their overwhelming disapproval over rules that could punish players who participate in any sort of on-field demonstration, as the new policies attempt to seclude them to the locker room during the playing of the national anthem.

Former Buffalo Bills guard Richie Incognito was involved in an altercation with another man at a Florida gym, according to TMZ Sports.Incognito was working out Wednesday and allegedly threw a tennis ball, then a dumbbell at another attendee before police were called to the scene, TMZ reports.The 34-year-old was detained by police, a Boca Police spokesperson confirmed to A.J. Perez of USA Today. Incognito was reportedly placed on psychiatric hold per the provisions of The Florida Mental Health Act of 1971, also known as the Baker Act.Incognito was named to the Pro Bowl for the fourth time in his career in 2017, anchoring the Bills' offensive line and serving as a key piece of their run-heavy scheme.It's been a turbulent offseason for Incognito, who originally asked the Bills to place him on the retired/reserved list. Incognito nearly immediately changed his mind, however, and said he would attend the team's voluntary offseason activities. Shortly thereafter, he asked for his release.Buffalo released Incognito from the reserve/retired list Monday, allowing him to sign with any team for the 2018 season.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The National Football League Players Association responded to a new policy implemented by the NFL on Wednesday, which requires that all players and league personnel must stand for the national anthem and flag prior to games if they are on the field, while also allowing personnel to stay in the locker room instead.Related: NFL won't require players to be on field for anthem, teams can be fined for protests Soon after the policy was announced, the NFLPA released the following statement, noting that they weren't consulted about the legislation and vowing to "challenge any aspect of it that is inconsistent with the collective bargaining agreement":

NFL owners unanimously voted Wednesday in favor of a rule that removes the requirement for players to be on the field for the national anthem, the league announced.Players will be permitted to stay in the locker room but will be expected to stand and show "respect for the flag and the anthem" if they come to the sidelines.Additionally, teams will be allowed to make their own anthem policies, while the league will be responsible for disciplining any players who protest.

Life as a backup could go pretty well for Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Nick Foles.The team recently restructured the contract of the Super Bowl LII MVP to provide him with more incentives and a mutual option for the 2019 season.Those incentives include $250,000 for each game in which he plays at least one-third of the snaps, according to Field Yates of ESPN. That number doubles if the Eagles win the game.Each of those numbers doubles again in the playoffs, which would give him a total of $1 million for each postseason victory when he plays one-third of the snaps.Should the Eagles go 16-0 with Foles playing 33 percent of the snaps in each game, he'll earn a total of $8 million.If he plays at least one-third of the snaps over the course of the season as a whole, he'll earn $1 million, or $1.5 million if he plays 50 percent of snaps. He'll also earn $500,000 if named to the original Pro Bowl ballot.Foles' chances of earning all of his regular-season incentives up to a total of $14 million depend on the health of starter Carson Wentz. Should Wentz be cleared to begin the 2018 season following the ACL surgery that prematurely ended his potential MVP 2017 campaign, Foles could end up with just his $4-million base salary and $2-million signing bonus.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

As we all know by now, New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski is a big fan of the number 69.So, it can't be a coincidence that Gronkowski the horse has 69/1 odds to win the Belmont Stakes on Bovada as of Wednesday morning.

The New England Patriots dynasty isn’t dead yet - but the foundation appears to be crumbling.The tumult that began with a scathing ESPN report about the growing friction between head coach Bill Belichick and iconic quarterback Tom Brady continued with the team’s Super Bowl loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, and has carried deep into the offseason.Brady was absent from Monday’s start of organized team activities, along with All-Pro tight end Rob Gronkowski, who is also reportedly disenfranchised with the team. Attendance for this camp is voluntary, but it’s rare for elite quarterbacks to intentionally skip out on any offseason practices.Brady, the five-time Super Bowl champion and arguably the greatest quarterback in history, has been the face of the NFL for more than a decade. The hunch here is that he and the Patriots will be fine come September and gear up for another Super Bowl run - but what about beyond 2018?Brady, who turns 41 next month, realistically only has two or three years before he walks off into the sunset, leaving behind records that’ll be nearly impossible to trump.Here’s a look at who could become the face of the league when the Patriots dynasty officially folds:QB Carson Wentz, Philadelphia EaglesWentz attacks with his right arm and elusive legs the way Aaron Rodgers does, but his charming, charismatic, everyman appeal differs from the “Joe Cool” QBs like Rodgers, Brady, Brett Favre, and other all-time greats.A recent breakdown of NFL player merchandise sold by state showed that Brady led sales in 10 states, the most of any NFL player, but Wentz was close behind with nine. The data collected by the NFL also revealed that Wentz led all NFL players in overall merchandise sold, ahead of "Tom Terrific."Wentz was cruising toward an MVP last year in his second season before tearing his knee, only to have Nick Foles take over and improbably lead the Eagles to their first Super Bowl.If he can stay healthy and win some rings, Wentz could easily fill Brady’s void as the league’s household name. He plays in the country’s most passionate football city, a top-five media market, and he’s more personable and less Hollywood than Brady.RB Saquon Barkley, New York GiantsNot since Emmitt Smith sliced through defenses in the early-to-mid 90s en route to becoming the NFL’s all-time rushing leader has the face of the league been more known for carrying the ball than throwing, but Barkley has all the elements to be the league’s top ticket if he fulfills his reputation.With his quickness to the edges, eye-popping athleticism, and ability to line up in the slot and run precise routes with reliable hands, Barkley is the perfect weapon for the modern pass-first NFL offense. Meanwhile, Pat Shurmur is the ideal coach to get Barkley isolated in space and let the magic come naturally.The NFL is experiencing a running back renaissance, and Barkley’s combination of charm, squeaky-clean character, and talent make him the top candidate to sweep the national fan base off its feet – more so than rivals Ezekiel Elliott, Todd Gurley, David Johnson, and Leonard Fournette.Throw in the bright lights and media coverage that come with starring in the New York and major metropolitan area, and it’s easy to see how a few seasons of 2,000 all-purpose yards and a couple of Super Bowl rings could vault Barkley to the top of the NFL’s totem pole.DL J.J. Watt, Houston TexansWith an otherworldly 69 sacks over a four-year span between 2012-15, Watt was already on his way to becoming the league’s most dominant defensive force since Lawrence Taylor and Reggie White jockeyed for that title 30 years ago.Unfortunately for Watt, injuries have relegated him to just eight games and 1.5 sacks over the past two seasons, but he has still managed to capture the nation through his charitable activism in the aftermath of two tragedies. Watt raised more than $37 million in donations to support victims of Hurricane Harvey and also footed the bill for the funerals of students who died in the Sante Fe High School shooting.With the exception of his AFC South rivals, Watt will be the superstar most NFL fans will be pulling for to revert to All-Pro form and raise the talented Texans defense to another level.It’s not easy for a defensive player to be the face of the league, especially a cornerback or inside linebacker. There’s a reason why 30 years have passed since L.T. and Reggie ruled the roost. But if there’s a pass-rusher who has the stats, personality, and platform to do it, Watt’s the one.QB Jimmy Garoppolo, San Francisco 49ersAfter being acquired by the 49ers in a deal with the Patriots, Garoppolo eventually moved into the starting role and won all of his five starts – a significant statistic not just because of the promise and potential he showed for his new team, but also because it kept alive his undefeated streak as a starter since his senior season at Eastern Illinois.Garoppolo was 2-0 as the Patriots starter in his three seasons before moving onto the Bay Area, where he improved his professional record to 7-0. His last loss as a starter was Dec. 14, 2013, in the FCS quarterfinals.He’s an accurate, athletic quarterback paired with a head coach in Kyle Shanahan who is known for maximizing the talents of precise, mobile quarterbacks. This could be the league’s next iconic head coach-quarterback pairing if Garoppolo and Shanahan can win some rings together.QB DeShaun Watson, Houston TexansMore so than Russell Wilson, Watson's combination of eye-popping athleticism and slick passing acumen make him a dark horse to be standing atop the league as its most popular figure if he can lead the Texans to their first Super Bowl title.Watson was smashing NFL rookie quarterback records last year. On top of that, he led all QBs in rushing yards and tied for the most touchdowns passes through seven games before tearing his ACL in practice. His legacy began in college, when he dethroned mighty Alabama in the national title game, leading Clemson to a national championship.Why hand this title to Watson over Wilson when the latter already has a ring and is arguably already the game’s most exciting player? Because the Seahawks are rebuilding - and NFL pundits wonder if Wilson can withstand the punishment he’s taken the past few years behind Seattle’s turnstile offensive line. Watson is just getting started, and if the rest of his career is anything like his rookie season, watch out NFL.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 is co-host of "The Sports Shop" on Facebook.(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The NFL might not be the rating juggernaut it once was, but football is still the king of television.NBC's Sunday Night Football was TV's highest-rated series in 2017, according to Scooby Axson of Sports Illustrated, who notes its seven consecutive years atop the ratings has broken a record previously set by "American Idol."SNF pulled in an average of 18.2 million viewers, dominated the 18-49 demographic, and only trailed CBS' "The Big Bang Theory" in terms of total viewers.The NFL's ratings have declined in recent years, with some suggesting that protests during the national anthem were causing people to switch off.So, while the NFL may be experiencing a drop in ratings, it appears to be the most immune to the widespread drop in TV interest.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The NFL draft is about to get a lot more musical.The league confirmed Wednesday that Nashville will host the 2019 NFL Draft after owners approved the city's bid.

Football fans can plan their Super Bowl vacations well in advance.University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Ariz. and Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans have been officially named the host sites of Super Bowl LVII in 2023 and LVIII in 2024, respectively.The announcement came after a vote by owners Wednesday morning at the NFL league meetings in Atlanta.Arizona last hosted Super Bowl XLIX in 2015, New Orleans hosted XLVII in 2013. It will be the 11th time New Orleans has hosted the event, and Arizona's fourth.Atlanta will host the event in 2019 to conclude the 2018 season, Miami in 2020, Tampa in 2021, and Los Angeles in 2022.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Olympic curler and Wisconsin native Matt Hamilton got the opportunity to meet Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers at the BMW Charity Pro-Am on Sunday.He even let Rodgers wear his gold medal.

Dallas Cowboys right guard Zack Martin skipped the first day of organized team activities on Tuesday, according to Todd Archer of ESPN.Though Martin has been working out on his own at the team's facility, it's unknown if he will take part in the voluntary program, multiple sources told Archer.The four-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro has been in discussion with the Cowboys over a long-term contract extension in the last couple weeks.The 16th overall pick of the 2014 draft carries a cap hit of $9.341 million for the 2018 season, according to Over the Cap.The first session of the Cowboys' OTAs runs through Thursday, session two from May 29-31, and the third and final session from June 4-6, according to Blogging the Boys.Mandatory minicamp begins June 12.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Johnny Manziel flamed out of the NFL due in large part to his greater focus on matters outside the game, a mistake fellow CFLer Doug Flutie says he can't make again if he's to revitalize his career north of the border"He needs to be a leader on the team, show that he's serious about football again, and put his nose to the grindstone and go," Flutie told Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk.Like Manziel, the Heisman-winning Flutie plied his trade in Canada after opportunities in the U.S. dried up. He played eight seasons in the CFL, ultimately earning a path back to the NFL with the Buffalo Bills in 1998.Manziel's stop in the CFL is likely to be far shorter, but Flutie said the young pivot can't cut any corners."In Johnny’s situation, very similar to me, there's a learning curve that goes on up there and you're competing against guys who are veterans in the league and know what they're doing," Flutie said. "You really have to learn that game and get efficient at it to win championships and be at that caliber."The Hamilton Tiger-Cats are aiming for Manziel to debut in an exhibition game against the Grey Cup-champion Toronto Argonauts on June 1.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Patriots owner Robert Kraft doesn't appear too concerned about New England beginning organized team activities without their two franchise players - Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski.Kraft said he's spoken to Brady and confirmed the star quarterback is excited to attend mandatory minicamp, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network."These are voluntary workouts ... I think he's in great shape," Kraft told Rapoport. "I think he's at an age where he's blessed to have three children, has responsibilities. It’s hard to fulfill those during the season."Kraft also confirmed Gronkowski will participate in minicamp.Both the quarterback and tight end appear to have a strained relationship with head coach Bill Belichick of late, but Kraft shut down any talk of further dysfunction behind the scenes."Nothing's changed. Everything is good," he said.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Los Angeles Chargers were hit with devastating news Tuesday, as starting tight end Hunter Henry suffered a torn ACL in practice and will miss the entire 2018 season.Henry was expected to play a vital role in the Chargers' offense this season, but the team is now left with Virgil Green and Sean McGrath atop the depth chart.Head coach Anthony Lynn and general manager Tom Telesco could look outside their current roster to fill Henry's shoes. Here are four options the Chargers could explore in the coming weeks:Antonio GatesGates, of course, is the first option that comes to mind in the wake of Henry's season-ending injury. Los Angeles reportedly told Gates it was not interested in bringing the free-agent tight end back for a 16th season, but circumstances have clearly changed.The eight-time Pro Bowler's play has declined in recent years - his 30 catches in 2017 were his lowest output since his rookie season in 2003 - but Gates offers red-zone ability and is a familiar face that knows the team's playbook. The veteran doesn't plan on retiring just yet, so it would not be shocking if he received a phone call in the coming days.Coby FleenerAfter being released by the New Orleans Saints earlier this month, Fleener is easily the top pass-catching tight end available in the free-agent pool. The former second-round pick has reportedly not yet been cleared from his 2017 concussion, so the Chargers may have to wait until training camp to explore this option.Fleener caught 22 passes for 295 yards and two touchdowns in 2017, but accumulated at least 50 receptions in his previous four seasons. The 6-foot-6, 251-pounder signed a lucrative contract with the Saints in 2016, but could settle for a minimum deal if he gets cleared.Julius ThomasAnother recently-released tight end, Julius Thomas offers decent blocking ability and red-zone potential. Thomas caught 41 passes for 388 yards and three touchdowns last year, but hasn't eclipsed 10 yards per catch since 2014.The former Denver Bronco draft pick turns 30 in June, but could still have enough pass-catching ability left for Los Angeles to use as part of a committee to replace Henry's production. Thomas is well past his prime, but is still one of the top available tight ends on the market.Trade for a TEThe free-agent tight end market won't exactly cause Telesco and Lynn to jump out of their seats, so the Chargers could explore a trade to replace Henry in 2018.While teams rarely part with offensive talent, there could be a few targets on other rosters. A name that comes to mind is Baltimore Ravens tight end Maxx Williams. A second-round bust to date, Williams could use a change of scenery to ignite his career. He's currently stuck behind rookies Hayden Hurst and Mark Andrews, and veteran Nick Boyle on Baltimore's depth chart. Los Angeles could acquire Williams without parting with valuable draft capital.Other potential trade targets could include Lance Kendricks, Jesse James, or even Adam Shaheen, who could find himself in a struggle for snaps behind Trey Burton and Dion Sims in Chicago.(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Los Angeles Chargers tight end Hunter Henry suffered a torn ACL in practice Tuesday, the team announced.The injury apparently occurred during a drill where he was untouched, and will end his 2018 season before it began, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.The news is a devastating blow to Los Angeles' offense. Last month, the Chargers informed veteran tight end Antonio Gates that they do not plan on re-signing him. The team is left with Virgil Green and Sean McGrath atop its depth chart.Henry was expected to play a vital role in head coach Anthony Lynn's and offensive coordinator Ken Whisenhunt's passing attack after a promising first two seasons. The former second-round pick caught 45 passes for 579 yards and four touchdowns in 2017. He caught eight touchdown passes during his rookie campaign.It remains to be seen if the Chargers will dive deep into the free-agent market or attempt to fill Henry's role internally this upcoming season.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The NFL owners' discussion on player protests during the national anthem will extend into Wednesday, but the league is considering adding a 15-yard penalty for those who kneel.What is clear is that team owners want to move the focus away from the anthem before games and onto the action on the field."We know our fans want us to zero in on football," Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said after Tuesday's discussions, Albert Breer of The MMQB reports.In a symbolic gesture, Jones took a knee at midfield while linked in arms with his players ahead of a Week 3 game after President Donald Trump took umbrage with the league's players for kneeling. They intentionally made the gesture ahead of the anthem.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

A former Houston Texans cheerleader has filed a class-action lawsuit against the team and its director of cheerleader programs and coach, Altovise Gary, ESPN's Sarah Barshop reports.The woman, who is the lead plaintiff in the case, is suing for unpaid wages and says she was physically assaulted by fans in 2017 and several cheerleaders were subject to harassment from the team's cheerleading coach.She says several cheerleaders reported being assaulted by fans to their coach, yet no steps were taken "to report the assaults or take steps to insure the cheerleaders' safety."The Texans issued a statement to the Washington Post, stating they stand by the cheerleading program."We are constantly evaluating our procedures and will continue to make adjustments as needed to make the program enjoyable for everyone," reads the statement.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Prior to the new league year in March, the Philadelphia Eagles reportedly turned down a potential trade that would have sent quarterback Nick Foles to the Cleveland Browns for the 35th overall pick in the 2018 draft, sources told NFL.com's Michael Silver.Silver added the Eagles ran the deal by Foles, who preferred to remain in Philadelphia. The decision not to trade the reigning Super Bowl MVP also illustrates how highly they regard their backup passer behind starter Carson Wentz.Cleveland later turned its attention to former Buffalo Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor, whom the team acquired for a third-round pick. General manager John Dorsey later selected Baker Mayfield with the first overall pick in April's draft, and used the 35th pick to select running back Nick Chubb.In April, the Eagles and Foles agreed to a restructured contract, which includes a mutual option for 2019. He remains the highest-paid backup quarterback in the NFL heading into the season.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The New York Jets have traded quarterback Christian Hackenberg to the Oakland Raiders for a conditional seventh-round pick in 2019, head coach Todd Bowles announced Tuesday.Hackenberg was the Jets' second-round pick (51st overall) in the 2016 draft but did not play a single regular-season snap for his former team.The former Penn State product entered organized team activities fourth on New York's quarterback depth chart behind Josh McCown, Teddy Bridgewater, and 2018 first-round pick Sam Darnold.Things won't get any easier for Hackenberg in Oakland, as he'll compete with EJ Manuel and Connor Cook for a roster spot.After an inconsistent collegiate career, Hackenberg's second-round selection is commonly viewed as one of the biggest reaches in recent draft history.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The playing of the national anthem and how to handle protests during the anthem are reportedly under heavy discussion at the NFL's spring meetings.Protests dominated headlines during the early portion of the 2017 season, but serious talks about the topic were deferred until league owners could get together after the season to hammer out a plan.The ideas currently being discussed are letting the home team determine whether both clubs will exit the locker room for the anthem and assessing a 15-yard penalty for kneeling, Albert Breer of the MMQB reports, citing sources.The NFL does not expect to come to a resolution on the issue Tuesday, but the discussion is expected to continue into Wednesday, according to multiple reports.The action of kneeling during the anthem drew the ire of President Donald Trump last season, and his public criticism of the league's handling of the matter sent the NFL into damage-control mode.In November, the league agreed to commit nearly $100 million to social justice programs. In return, players such as the Philadelphia Eagles' Malcolm Jenkins agreed not to demonstrate during the anthem in the future.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers continues to be vocal about his team's offseason moves as it begins organized training activities.Rodgers brought up released wide receiver Jordy Nelson when asked if the Packers should sign free agent Dez Bryant."I don't know why you'd cut Jordy (Nelson) and bring in Dez (Bryant), but he’s a talented player," Rodgers told reporters Tuesday, according to Packersnews.com's Ryan Wood.However, the two-time Most Valuable Player added his team would "welcome (Bryant) with open arms" if the opportunity presented itself.Rodgers has admitted it was tough to see Nelson leave before being able to 'finish up' with his former teammate.It's been an offseason of changes for the star signal-caller, as Rodgers lost Nelson and quarterbacks coach Alex Van Pelt, while Green Bay added tight end Jimmy Graham via free agency.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Philadelphia Eagles released linebacker Mychal Kendricks on Tuesday after six seasons with the franchise.The 27-year-old is expected to have a strong free-agent market, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.Kendricks has been a consistent presence in the middle of the Eagles' defense since being selected in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft, appearing in 85 games and racking up 459 total tackles.His release comes at a curious time, as fellow linebacker Paul Worrilow was carted off from Tuesday's organized team activities and was reportedly diagnosed with a torn ACL, a source told Schefter.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Oakland Raiders star defensive end Khalil Mack was absent for the start of organized team activities Tuesday, according to Michael Gehlken of the Las Vegas Review-Journal.Mack is expected to receive a big-money contract extension this offseason. His absence from OTAs was expected, however, as Gehlen noted that negotiations have stalled.Mack has stayed away from the team throughout the voluntary part of the offseason. The pass-rusher is likely pushing for a deal similar to that of Von Miller, who averages just over $19 million per season.Complicating matters further is that fellow Defensive Player of the Year winner Aaron Donald is also awaiting his own mega-extension from the Los Angeles Rams, and it's possible =both teams are waiting for the other to set the market.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Atlanta Falcons head coach Dan Quinn expects star wide receiver Julio Jones to attend team workouts once they become mandatory in June, he told reporters, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.Jones was absent from the start of voluntary organized team activities Tuesday, and reportedly wants a new contract. Quinn said he's maintained regular contact with the 29-year-old, who's widely regarded as one of the top wideouts in the game.Jones still has three years remaining on his contract, but has seen less productive pass-catchers sign more lucrative deals than his in recent times.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

NFL owners voted Tuesday to approve the sale of the Carolina Panthers to billionaire hedge fund manager David Tepper, according to Albert Breer of MMQB.com.The reported $2.2-billion deal will be official in July, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.Related: What the sale of the Panthers means for the NFLThe Panthers announced the sale of the franchise to the 60-year-old last week.Roger Goodell said in Tepper's introductory press conference that he was unanimously approved by the other team owners.Speculation regarding the Panthers' future in Carolina has surrounded the team ever since former owner Jerry Richardson announced he would sell the franchise in December. However, it appears Tepper believes the Panthers belong in Carolina."There's a logical place for this team. It's Charlotte," said Tepper, according to Mark Maske of The Washington Post.Asked about any potential changes to the front office or coaching staff, Tepper joked that, "I have a great appreciation for how stupid I am," according to Rapoport.Richardson was forced to sell following revelations about his workplace misconduct, and Tepper was quick to separate himself from the previous regime."I'm a person that believes in equality for everybody, men and women," he said, according to Maske.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Ben Roethlisberger vows to make himself a resource for rookie Mason Rudolph, saying that's consistent with how he's treated other Pittsburgh Steelers quarterbacks throughout his career."I've never been the type to be rude or mean to other quarterbacks," Roethlisberger told reporters after Steelers practice Tuesday, courtesy of ESPN's Jeremy Fowler. "... I've had a lot of quarterbacks through here that have been younger than me that I've tried to help any way that I can, so I'll continue to do that."Roethlisberger appeared far less enthusiastic about being a possible mentor to Rudolph after the Steelers selected the Oklahoma State product in the third round of April's draft. Big Ben immediately questioned the pick, and later told a Pittsburgh radio station he might have to "point to the playbook" if the rookie came to him with a question."I think people took some things that I said into a context that I was going to be mean or rude or whatever and that was not it at all," Roethlisbeger said. "If you listened to the whole conversation, it was said in jest and laughing and having fun."The 36-year-old also offered a positive assessment of Rudolph's first outing in voluntary organized team activities."He's got a big arm. He seems to understand the offense, seems to not have any issues in the huddle, so I thought he did really well," he told Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.Rudolph enjoyed a prolific college career and could be groomed to take over for Roethlisberger when the two-time Super Bowl champion calls it quits.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

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Philadelphia Eagles head coach Doug Pederson confirmed his team will visit the White House on June 5, but said the trip won't be mandatory for players."We're excited to be going," Pederson said Tuesday, according to Eliot Shorr-Parks of NJ.com. "At the same time, it's an individual (for the players) decision."Malcolm Jenkins, Torrey Smith, and Chris Long are among the prominent members of the Eagles' Super Bowl-winning team who have already said they won't be joining their teammates in Washington.It was unclear if the Eagles would continue the tradition of visiting the White House after owner Jeffery Lurie's recent critical comments of President Donald Trump.Asked about the trip Tuesday, Carson Wentz said he will defer to the group's decision.

Predictably, New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick offered little insight Tuesday when asked about the absence of quarterback Tom Brady from the start of voluntary organized team activities."I'm not going to talk about the people that aren't here," he told reporters, courtesy of Sports Illustrated. "The guys who are here are improving, working hard. Those are the guys we're going to focus on."It's been a tense offseason for Brady and the Patriots - at least, it's appeared that way from the outside looking in - as the two sides have reportedly been at odds since last year.Brady has skipped all voluntary team workouts this offseason. He is expected to show up for mandatory minicamp in June.Belichick was equally coy when pressed on the absence of another star, tight end Rob Gronkowski, who's believed to be seeking a revised contract."I'm focused on the guys that are here and those are the guys we're working with in the OTA process Phase 3," he said, via Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Jacksonville Jaguars began voluntary organized team activities Tuesday without star cornerbacks Jalen Ramsey and A.J. Bouye.Head coach Doug Marrone told reporters he'd let the Pro Bowl defenders explain their absences publicly if and when they report to the workouts, according to Gene Frenette of The Florida Times-Union.Of course, there's no mandate for either player to be with the team during the voluntary phase of the offseason.Ramsey is entering his third NFL campaign while Bouye signed a huge five-year deal a season ago so it's unlikely their lack of attendance is related to contract issues.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

It's a well-known fact that Hall of Fame quarterback Brett Favre checked into rehab for a Vicodin addiction during his NFL career, but it appears that was just one of three occasions.Speaking to MMQB's Peter King, Favre opened up about his off-field struggles."I actually went to rehab three times," Favre told King. "It was pills then, too. Deanna (Favre) and (agent) Bus (Cook) talked me into it. I didn't think I had a problem, but they talked me into it. I went for 28 days.""When I got out, I was able to control myself for a while. I wouldn’t take anything for a day or two, and I wouldn't drink. But I was a binge drinker. When I drank, I drank to excess. So when I went in the second time, to the place in Kansas, I remember vividly fighting them in there. They said drinking was the gateway drug for me, and they were right, absolutely right, but I wouldn't admit it."Since retiring, Favre has changed his lifestyle, focusing on his grandchildren and putting his illustrious NFL career behind him.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell does not plan to attend the team's organized team activities, which begin Tuesday, a source told ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.Bell remains unsigned after Pittsburgh applied the franchise tag to the All-Pro running back for the second consecutive year. Bell was also absent for start of Pittsburgh's offseason program in April.He held out from the team until September last season and has threatened to miss games, or retire, if he does not sign an extension. The Steelers have until July 16 to reach an agreement with their star rusher.Bell rushed for 1,291 yards and nine touchdowns in 2017, adding a league-high (among running backs) 85 catches for 655 receiving yards.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Add new Los Angeles Rams cornerback Marcus Peters to the list of people who believe Aaron Donald is deserving of a sizable contract extension.Speaking Monday as the Rams prepare for voluntary practices, Peters bluntly stood by Donald, who is currently skipping OTAs as he seeks a new contract."Pay the man," Peters told reporters Monday, referencing Donald, according to NFL.com's Jeremy Bergman. "I mean, sh--. I mean, you win the MVP, man. Come on now."Related- Absent stars: How concerned should teams be about big names skipping OTAs?Now in the final year of his rookie contract, Donald is slated to make $6.89 million in 2018, well below his market value. General manager Les Snead has claimed the team would prioritize an extension for the star defensive tackle, but negotiations have yet to progress.Donald has made the Pro Bowl in each of his first four seasons, and was named a first-team All-Pro in each of his last three. The reigning defensive player of the year accumulated 11 sacks and five forced fumbles in 2017.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Accumulating the third-most all-purpose yards and receiving the AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award put the stamp on a highly successful first season for New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara, but it appears the dual-threat back is ready for a larger workload in year two."(That's) my mentality," Kamara told reporters Monday, with OTAs set to begin the following day, according to NFL.com's Jeremy Bergman. "Year two, I'm trying to do more than I did in year one. So I'm just ready to play."Kamara split carries with veteran running back Mark Ingram in 2017, a season that saw New Orleans rank fifth in the league in rushing yards per game.Ingram's four-game suspension to start the 2018 campaign, however, could put the bulk of the load on the sophomore rusher. Last week, Saints head coach Sean Payton claimed it would be a mistake for Kamara to handle more than 15 carries per game, but the former third-round pick remains confident in his play-caller."From the beginning, I've said, 'Whatever I have to do,'" Kamara said. "I trust Sean and I trust our coaches. So however it unfolds, we'll just handle it like that."Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Buffalo Bills released guard Richie Incognito from the reserve/retired list Monday, the team announced.Incognito asked the Bills for his release in April after a bizarre week, in which he claimed he would attend the team's voluntary offseason activities the day after Buffalo placed him on the retired list.The veteran guard had contemplated retirement since the 2017 season concluded, but he's now free to sign with any team if he's interested in continuing his career. Incognito reportedly hopes to play in 2018, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.The controversial lineman turns 35 in July and is a four-time Pro Bowler.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The NFL offseason schedule is complex and hard to follow at times.Keeping track of workouts, rookie minicamps, organized team activities (both voluntary and mandatory), and training camp can cause the even the most die-hard fan headaches. It gets even more difficult to follow when certain players start missing events due to contract issues or personal reasons.The term "holdout" is subsequently thrown around, often with reckless abandon, causing many to view all absences equally. However, standoffs between players and teams heading into OTAs cannot be officially classed as "holdouts," as they're voluntary.Still, these are far from insignificant. OTA absences are often precursors to much more impactful impasses between players and teams. Here, we assess the concern surrounding six star players who are staying away from their respective franchises.Tom Brady, PatriotsTom Brady's curious offseason continues. First, uncertainty arose about the star quarterback's playing future, despite the fact he's made it abundantly clear he intends to play into his mid-40s. Brady confirmed he'd return for 2018, but reported issues with his contract seemingly still remain. Next, he stayed away from offseason workouts while doing charity work in Qatar. And now, the New England Patriots reported to OTAs without their franchise player.Muddying this unexpected issue further are Brady's recent comments about his standing within the Patriots franchise. Asked if he feels appreciated by the team, the five-time Super Bowl winner said: "I plead the fifth."For the team-first, media-savvy Patriots, this merely serves to highlight that not all is well behind the scenes following a season in which the relationship between Brady and head coach Bill Belichick showed its first signs of real vulnerability.Related - Report: Belichick banned Brady's associate Guerrero from locker roomThis is the first time Brady has decided to miss OTAs in his previous 18 NFL seasons, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. He's all but certain to be under center in Week 1; however, it's fair to say the pivot is making a statement with his absence, and having the top disciple of the "Patriot Way" in rebellion is uncharted waters for New England.Brady is apparently expected to report for the mandatory minicamp, which is scheduled for June 5-7, but this power struggle is unlikely to end with his return.Concern level: 🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨Julio Jones, FalconsJulio Jones apparently watched the Brink Trucks pull up to his quarterback's house and decided he wanted a piece of the action.The Atlanta Falcons' star wide receiver is set to earn just $10.5 million in 2017, his average salary of $14.5 million lags behind other elite players at his position by a significant margin, and inferior players like Sammy Watkins and Jarvis Landry were given more expensive deals during this year's free agency.Jones reportedly wants his contract worked, and the Falcons are amenable to his request considering his standing on the team and his high level of production. The pass-catcher isn't expected to attend voluntary OTAs, but his absence isn't "a big deal" to Atlanta, as it isn't entirely motivated by contract issues (Jones missed most of OTAs last season while vacationing in China).Having a star player absent is never a positive, but it appears only a matter of time before the Falcons reward the other key cog in their offense and put this matter to rest.Concern level: 🚨Aaron Donald, RamsFor the second straight offseason, the Los Angeles Rams are at odds with their top defensive player.Aaron Donald is following a similar blueprint to last season, reportedly staying away from voluntary OTAs. Los Angeles likely hopes to avoid any further repetition, however, as Donald ended up absent from the team for nearly three months before ending his holdout and returning for Week 2.After Donald earned Defensive Player of the Year honors and made his third straight All-Pro team in 2017, the Rams have no choice but to make the dynamic defensive tackle the highest-paid defensive player in football.Extending Donald should be a no-brainer, but while general manager Les Snead said the two parties are "on the verge" of a record deal April 10, negotiations appear to have stagnated. For a team with genuine Super Bowl aspirations, another high-profile holdout - let alone arguably their most important player - is the last thing the Rams need.Concern level: 🚨🚨🚨Le'Veon Bell, SteelersThere appears to be no end in sight regarding Le'Veon Bell's contract standoff with the Pittsburgh Steelers.The twice-franchise-tagged Bell is not expected to report to OTAs with the rest of his teammates and, barring a long-term contract extension, will likely miss the rest of the offseason and preseason - just as he did last year before rejoining Pittsburgh six days prior to the season opener.Bell has backed off a threat to sit out the entire season but has no reason to sign the franchise tender and risk injury in workouts.While the 26-year-old has made it clear he wants to help reset the running-back market with his extension, the Steelers seem reticent about handing over so much money to a player who plays a non-premium position and has lengthy suspension and injury histories.Bell would only hurt himself by sitting out the season, but it's not out of the realms of possibility, and the two parties appear far away from a common ground. It's not quite time to hit the panic button quite yet, but for the Super Bowl-hopeful Steelers, even the potential of not having Bell in 2018 should cause many a sleepless night.Concern level: 🚨🚨🚨Rob Gronkowski, PatriotsNo, you're not dreaming. The Patriots have not one but two off-field conundrums to deal with regarding a star player.Like Brady, Rob Gronkowski has appeared to have a more strained relationship with the Patriots - Belichick, in particular - of late/ The dominant tight end is also angling for an improved contract and threatened retirement during the postgame of Super Bowl LII before confirming his return following a meeting with the head coach.Related - Report: Brady, Gronk part of group still upset by Butler's Super Bowl benchingGronkowski reportedly intends to follow his quarterback's lead and will participate in mandatory minicamp in early June after likely skipping OTAs.The Patriots reportedly are working on "tweaking" Gronkowski's contract, and while his current absence isn't too much to worry about, his strained relationship with the team certainly is.Concern level: 🚨Earl Thomas, SeahawksDespite strong rumors connecting him with a trade to his hometown Dallas Cowboys, Earl Thomas remains a member of the Seattle Seahawks.But the safety doesn't look likely to join his team for OTAs as he seeks an improved deal. Thomas, who recently turned 29, hasn't been at any voluntary team workouts since last season ended on New Year's Eve, and is seeking to become the highest-paid player at his position.Few would argue Thomas doesn't deserve to earn more than Eric Berry's $13 million per season, but with Seattle undergoing radical changes to its roster and the likes of Russell Wilson requiring new deals in the foreseeable future, the team has to decide whether Thomas is part of their long-term plans.Fortunately for the Seahawks, Thomas has already informed them he won't hold out from training camp or the season - like fellow safety Kam Chancellor in 2015 - but the situation has the potential to sour if Seattle once again opts not to reward a defensive player who has been instrumental in its recent success, and the only remaining original member of the much-loved "Legion of Boom."Concern level: 🚨🚨🚨🚨(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The NFL won't discipline Matt Patricia or the Detroit Lions after meeting with both parties about the 1996 sexual assault case against the first-year head coach that resurfaced recently.The league determined the Lions, who hired a search firm to conduct background checks on Patricia and other candidates, weren't at fault for failing to uncover the case before hiring Patricia in February. It's common for search firms to omit felony arrests that don't result in convictions from the paperwork they submit to teams because companies aren't allowed to consider such arrests in potential employment under the Fair Credit Reporting Act."As we learned from both Mr. Patricia and the Lions, the matter was not part of his employment interview process for job opportunities outside of or within the NFL," a statement from the league said. "He was under no legal or other requirement to raise the issue."This is not subject to the personal conduct policy as the allegations occurred well before his affiliation with the NFL."Patricia and a friend were arrested and accused of aggravated sexual assault during spring break in 1996. The two men were indicted, but the case was dismissed months later because the accuser refused to testify.Patricia has maintained his innocence since the case was brought back to light roughly two weeks ago.The NFL said it concluded the Lions handled the interview process with Patricia appropriately, and that Patricia didn't mislead the team about his past in any way.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New York Giants head coach Pat Shurmur was encouraged by Odell Beckham Jr.'s performance at the opening day of voluntary organized team activities Monday.Beckham participated in some drills but was held out of others as he continues his recovery from ankle surgery. The wide receiver hasn't been medically cleared to participate in high-impact or team exercises."Looks good. He's out here moving around," Shurmur told reporters after practice, according to Jordan Raanan of ESPN. "He's chomping at the bit, wanted to get out and do more than we're allowing him to at this point. We're just trying to make sure everything is healed to the fullest before we put him out there."Beckham, as expected, kept his perfect attendance at voluntary workouts intact Monday. The 25-year-old is looking for a new, long-term contract with New York, though there are no signs the two sides are actually progressing toward a deal.

Colin Kaepernick may have taken a big step forward in his attempt to prove that NFL teams colluded to keep him out of the league.Depositions in the quarterback's collusion case have produced internal franchise documents from the 2017 free-agent evaluation process - along with witness testimony - which establish that teams around the league viewed Kaepernick as not just worthy of a roster spot, but as a starting-caliber player, a source told Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk.While Kaepernick's legal team will likely need more to prove that teams actively coordinated against him following his protests during the national anthem in 2016, this evidence is a blow to the league's argument that the quarterback remained unemployed due entirely to his on-field ability.The Baltimore Ravens and Seattle Seahawks are the only teams known to have been actively interested in signing Kaepernick.The Seahawks had scheduled a workout with Kaepernick this offseason, but opted to sign journeyman quarterback Austin Davis instead after postponing the visit. That was reportedly because Kaepernick declined to say for certain whether he'll stop his anthem protests moving forward.Meanwhile, the Ravens looked into Kaepernick when Joe Flacco suffered a back injury near the start of the 2017 campaign. However, the team passed on signing him and then did so again this offseason, instead bringing in Robert Griffin III - who was also considered when Flacco was sidelined - to bolster the depth chart.Teams and their head coaches were both deposed in Kaepernick's case.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell continued the league's cautious approach to the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to end the ban on state-sanctioned sports betting, releasing a statement Monday in which he called on Congress to "enact uniform standards for states that choose to legalize sports betting." He also outlined "four core principles" for potential legislation.

Arizona and New Orleans will be named the hosts of Super Bowl LVII in 2023 and Super Bowl LVIII in 2024, respectively, a source told Albert Breer of the MMQB.NFL owners will make the news official later this week when they vote on the host sites at their annual meetings in Atlanta.Super Bowl LVII will be played in 2023 to mark the end of the 2022 season, while 2024's Super Bowl LVIII will close out the 2023 campaign.With Arizona and New Orleans all but locked in for future Super Bowls, the NFL has sites pegged for the next six championship games:Super BowlHost marketLIII (53)AtlantaLIV (54)MiamiLV (55)TampaLVI (56)Los AngelesLVII (57)Arizona*LVIII (58)New Orleans**Not yet confirmedArizona last hosted the title game in 2015, when the New England Patriots defeated the Seattle Seahawks on Malcolm Butler's last-second, goal-line interception in Super Bowl XLIX, while New Orleans most recently had it in 2013, when the Baltimore Ravens overcame a Beyonce-induced power outage - and the San Francisco 49ers - to claim glory in Super Bowl XLVII.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Aaron Donald informed the Los Angeles Rams that he won't be attending the start of organized team activities Monday, as he seeks a new contract extension from the team, a Rams official told ESPN's Adam Schefter.Donald missed voluntary OTAs last year, holding out during the preseason before rejoining the Rams prior to the 2017 regular season. He missed the opener due to his absence, but still won Defensive Player of the Year honors for his 11-sack campaign.The 26-year-old is likely to challenge Von Miller's status as the league's highest-paid defensive player at around $19 million per season.Rams general manager Les Snead said Donald was "on the verge" of becoming the NFL's richest defender April 10, but there has appeared to be little progress since then.Donald has one year remaining on his rookie contract.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The New York Giants and star wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. have yet to engage in serious negotiations over a contract extension, a source told ESPN's Jordan Raanan.Giants co-owner John Mara said two weeks ago he didn't feel a sense of urgency to get a new deal done with Beckham, even though the 25-year-old is entering the fifth and final year of his rookie contract.Beckham has made it clear he wants to become one of the highest-paid players in the NFL, but the Giants have seemed reluctant to meet the eccentric pass-catcher's request.A three-time Pro Bowler, Beckham has attended all voluntary team workouts this offseason - including the beginning of organized team activities Monday - despite rumors that he wouldn't set foot on the field before getting a new deal.Beckham was limited to four games last year because of a fractured ankle, but posted at least 1,300 yards and 10 receiving touchdowns in each of his first three seasons in the league.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady won't attend the first day of voluntary offseason team activities Monday, a source told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.Brady, who also skipped the team's voluntary workout sessions in April, is reportedly expected to show up for mandatory team activities in June.It's been a strange offseason for Brady and the Patriots, who've reportedly been at odds since last season. Brady has usually attended voluntary workouts in the past.Meanwhile, tight end Rob Gronkowski - one of Brady's favorite targets - will attend voluntary OTAs but may not be present for the opening day, a source told Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk. Gronkowski is believed to be seeking an amended contract.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Free-agent pass-rusher Junior Galette said in an Instagram post he may retire despite having multiple offers to continue to his career.The 30-year-old recorded 20 tackles and three sacks last season for the Washington Redskins. He missed the previous two campaigns due to separate Achilles injuries.

While Baker Mayfield was either basking in the glory of being selected first overall on draft night or fearing what life with the Cleveland Browns would be like, a waiting Josh Rosen grew more and more irritated until the Arizona Cardinals took him at No. 10.Rosen's frustration boiled over after he was selected, saying shortly after that there were "nine mistakes" made ahead of him. Being one of those mistakes, Mayfield not only disagrees with Rosen's comments but believes every pick landed just as it should have."The fact that he can say there's nine mistakes made ahead of him, how's he gonna compare himself to a running back and linemen and defensive players that were picked in front of him? There's no comparison," Mayfield told ESPN."I think everybody ended up where they're supposed to be. I get it. I get the competitive nature, but you don't want to be scripted like that."Rosen eventually walked back his comment the following day, clarifying that there were just three mistakes in each of the quarterbacks going ahead of him. That may poke a hole in Mayfield's argument, though it is doubtful anyone will get the Oklahoma product to admit he wasn't worth the top selection.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan is such a big fan of Lil Wayne that he named his son Carter after the rapper (real name Dwayne Michael Carter Jr.), according to Chris Simms.The former NFL quarterback, who's close friends with Shanahan and played with him at the University of Texas, dropped that tidbit of information Thursday during an appearance on the "Simms and Lefkoe" podcast."He was obsessed with Lil Wayne (during) my early years in the NFL," Simms said. "Kyle's one of those guys that like, if you're hanging and we're drinking some beers or whatever, he's got to control the music. And he has A.D.D., so we can never actually listen to a full song. We listen for like 30 seconds, he's like, 'Got another cool one.'"Shanahan and his son were recently spotted hanging out with another rapper, 50 Cent, at Bellator 199. Niners quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo and tight end George Kittle were also there.

This time, Johnny Manziel promises, it's all about football.The former college star and NFL washout is getting his second chance in the professional ranks after signing a two-year contract with the CFL's Hamilton Tiger-Cats.It's been nearly two-and-a-half years since Manziel last took a pro snap, his exile from football due in part to both his poor play with the Cleveland Browns and his many transgressions off the field. Now sober, medicated for a bipolar disorder, and married, Manziel insists he'll devote the appropriate time to his craft.Of course, it was on the field where "Johnny Football" made his name. He set the SEC on fire and became the first freshman to win the Heisman Trophy in 2012, then followed it up by throwing for 4,000 yards in 2013 and becoming a first-round draft pick.He struggled in spot duty his rookie year, throwing just nine pro passes before getting two starts late in the 2014 season. He failed to throw for more than 80 yards in his four appearances.After showing flashes early in 2015, by the midway point of the campaign, Manziel was given the chance to lead the franchise. Playing almost exclusively on instinct and guile, Manziel finished the year with 1,500 passing yards, seven touchdowns, five picks, and a passer rating of 79.4 after nine games and six starts.The stats are hardly impressive, but were accomplished with almost no formal training."Guys are good in the NFL because they know film, they study hard, and they work even harder in the offseason. I didn't know that. If Cleveland did any of their homework, they would have known that I was a guy that didn't come in every day and watch film. I was a guy that didn't really know the Xs and Os of football," Manziel admitted on "The Dan Patrick Show" in April.In his final tumultuous season in the NFL, Manziel was spotted partying during the team's bye week shortly after he was named the starter for the rest of the season, skipped meetings, and was discovered in a Vegas casino in disguise.The Browns cut ties with him soon afterward.Talent has never been the issue with Manziel, the last quarterback to record more than one victory in a season with the Browns.His high-water mark remains a 372-yard passing day in November 2015 against the Steelers. He completed 33 of 45 passes, threw for one touchdown, and finished with a career-high 95.8 passer rating.He also fumbled the opening snap, threw an interception, and was sacked six times that day in a 30-9 loss. It perfectly encapsulates his time in Cleveland: flashes of brilliance met with little team success.Heading north for Act II should provide Manziel with his best opportunity for improvement.He's joining a league that has never looked down on a player of his stature. Standing six feet tall, Manziel won't hear the usual talk of physical limitations that crops up in the NFL, and the wider, longer field will allow more room for a mobile, scrambling quarterback.If he can eliminate the distractions and accentuate the dynamic ability that made him the must-watch player in college, he'll be appointment viewing if he ever sees the field in the CFL.Manziel has been through more than most 25-year-olds, all at his own doing. If he's truly dedicated to realizing his professional potential, sticking to football is a good start.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.