ESPN continues to aim high in its search for a new Monday Night Football analyst after reportedly being turned down by Peyton Manning.Carolina Panthers tight end Greg Olsen is auditioning for the role Friday, sources told Andrew Marchand of the New York Post.Olsen remains committed to playing for the Panthers in 2018, sources told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, adding that Friday's audition is for a potential post-playing career.The 33-year-old has just one year remaining on his contract with the Panthers, carrying a cap hit of $9.75 million, according to Over The Cap.The three-time Pro Bowler played just seven games last season, missing time due to a foot injury. He caught 17 of 38 targets for 191 yards and one touchdown when active.Olsen was in the broadcast booth for FOX for a Week 11 game between the Los Angeles Rams and Minnesota Vikings. He received strong reviews, according to Marchand.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Running back Thomas Rawls will be making a free-agent visit to the Kansas City Chiefs on Friday, a source informed NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.The Seattle Seahawks allowed the three-year pro to hit the open market.Rawls has battled injuries for much of his career. He began the 2017 season hampered by an ankle injury. However, when healthy, he drew two starts in which he carried the ball more than 10 times and finished with outputs of 36 and 27 yards. He averaged just 2.7 yards per carry last season.The Chiefs are likely looking only for depth at running back as they have 2017 rushing champ Kareem Hunt in the lead role.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Seattle Seahawks will have a much different look in 2018 as an offseason that has seen them trade Michael Bennett, cut Richard Sherman, and lose both Paul Richardson and Jimmy Graham to free agency (with Sheldon Richardson among those still unsigned) continues.Seattle is also reportedly listening to offers for Earl Thomas.Sherman, now a member of the NFC West-rival San Francisco 49ers, believes this type of turnover stems from head coach Pete Carroll's college roots."I think it was kind of philosophical on his part," Sherman said of Carroll on the "Thomahawk Show" podcast hosted by former Cleveland Browns teammates Joe Thomas and Andrew Hawkins. "A lot of us have been there six, seven, eight years, and his philosophy is more built for college. Four years, guys rotate in, rotate out."Carroll was the head coach at USC from 2001-09 and has been with the Seahawks since 2010. He's the oldest head coach in the league at 66 years of age."We had kind of heard all his stories, we had kind of heard every story, every funny anecdote that he had. And honestly, because he just recycles them. And they're cool stories, they're great for team chemistry and building, etcetera, etcetera. But we had literally heard them all. We could recite them before he even started to say them," Sherman said.Related: Sherman admits feeling 'vengeful' toward SeahawksThe Seahawks snapped a streak of five consecutive playoff appearances in 2017, missing the postseason for just the second time in Carroll's tenure.Sherman says Carroll, who has two years remaining on his contract, is showing no signs of stepping away, but a poor run with a lack of success could exact a toll."I think that it depends on how this season goes for them. If they do great, get to the playoffs and continue to have the success, then I think he continues to go. But if things don't go as planned and they don't get to the playoffs and they have a rough year, then I think that'll weigh into his decision. The legacy begins to get tainted at that point."With h/t to ESPNCopyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Since teams have been able to negotiate with players, Eric Reid has yet to reportedly receive a contract offer or arrange a free-agent visit. He isn't overly curious as to why.The former San Francisco 49ers safety believes he hasn't received interest because of his involvement in player protests, he tweeted Thursday. He was the first player to join Colin Kaepernick in kneeling during the national anthem in 2016.

Is this 2015 all over again?Free-agent running back Frank Gore finished his visit with the Detroit Lions on Thursday and headed home without a contract, a source told ESPN's Josina Anderson.Gore was reportedly close to finishing a deal with the Lions on Wednesday night, but could not come to an agreement with the club before his visit finished.The 34-year-old experienced a similar situation the last time he hit free agency in 2015. He'd reportedly agreed to a deal with the Philadelphia Eagles, but backed out and joined the Indianapolis Colts.Though it's still possible for Gore to sign with the Lions, those agreements are usually finalized during free-agent visits.Gore ran for 961 yards and three touchdowns last season - his 11th straight year with at least 14 games played and 950 rushing yards - and currently sits fifth on the all-time rushing yards list, only 75 yards behind the fourth spot.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

On paper, Kirk Cousins' contract with the Minnesota Vikings is only for three years - but the message behind the fully-guaranteed deal has the quarterback wanting more.At his introductory press conference Thursday, the 29-year-old made it clear that he doesn't expect his latest contract to be his last with the Vikings."As Rick said yesterday, this is a lifetime deal," Cousins said, according to ESPN's Courtney Cronin. "That's the goal. This is a three-year deal but the expectation from both sides is we raise our kids here and then if everything goes as planned that I'd be here for a long, long time."Cousins and his agent Mike McCartney have been working toward negotiating the first fully-guaranteed contract for a veteran quarterback the past three years. Vikings general manager Rick Speilman recognized that it would be worth giving him that deal to land a franchise quarterback."If you have an opportunity to go out and potentially get a franchise quarterback or a quarterback that's going to be leading you for years to come," Spielman said. "He's right now in the prime of his career. Our history tells us if we hit on a player, we're going to do everything we can to keep that player here. Especially at that quarterback position. That's why this was so unique."The fully guaranteed part, I know it's the first time, but also when you have an opportunity to get a potential franchise quarterback, you know where the leverage is going. We respected that and I respected that."Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The New Orleans community lost one of its pillars on Thursday, as Tom Benson, the owner of the NFL's Saints and NBA's Pelicans, died at age 90.While Benson, a native of the Big Easy, didn't have time to achieve a ton in basketball, he controlled the Saints for more than three decades and oversaw many of the franchise's best moments. Here's a look at the five best:1985 - Keeps franchise in NOLAThrough the first 19 years of the Saints' existence, the team had yet to make a playoff appearance or even have a winning season. The ownership group was made up of several stakeholders, with the controlling interest in the hands of a young Houston businessman. And with some fans wearing bags on their heads and referring to the team as the "Aints," the franchise was on the verge of being sold to parties interested in moving it to Jacksonville, Fla.However, after building financial success for himself through Chevrolet dealerships and his own banking business, Benson swooped in to purchase the Saints and keep them in his hometown. He then hired Jim Finks as his general manager and Jim Mora Jr. as his head coach, which began to turn things around.1987 - 1st playoff appearanceIt took Benson very little time to achieve what Saints fans had been hoping for since the club's inception. In his second year as owner, the Saints posted their first-ever winning record at a remarkable 12-3 and earned their first postseason berth, even getting a home playoff game.The team also finished the regular season on a nine-game winning streak thanks to its top-rated offense, and when the Saints clinched their playoff spot in Week 13, their owner introduced the world to the "Benson Boogie."While the team lost its postseason debut, Mora enjoyed continued regular-season success, finishing with an 8-8 record or better in each of the next six seasons, and making three more playoff appearances during his tenure. However, that success tailed off through the '90s before a golden duo arrived to save the day.2006 - Bringing in the big gunsWith only one playoff win through his first 20 years of owning the team, Benson recognized that major steps were needed to get the Saints into the NFL's spotlight. And when Hurricane Katrina ravaged New Orleans, he felt a responsibility to put the team in a position to lead the city he called home out of the darkness.Alongside general manager Mickey Loomis, Benson hunted down top head-coaching candidate Sean Payton and highly coveted free-agent quarterback Drew Brees. Both men were inspired by the state of the city, and shared Benson's desire to bring NOLA back from the dead.Since Brees and Payton arrived in New Orleans, they've both cemented their status as legends of the Big Easy and future Hall of Famers. The duo has led the Saints to more success over the last 12 years than the franchise could have imagined though its first 39 seasons.2006 - Return to the SuperdomeHurricane Katrina forced the Saints to spend the 2005 season playing out of San Antonio, Texas, where they went just 3-13 as Benson reportedly considered leaving New Orleans for good due to the Superdome's damage.However, the owner resisted the urge to run from the fight, finally returning the team to the Superdome against the rival Atlanta Falcons on a Monday night in Week 3.Described by some as the loudest a sports stadium has ever been, the return home is famously remembered for a punt block in the first quarter by the Saints' Steve Gleason, which was later immortalized as a statue (pictured above). New Orleans won 23-3, and went on to claim its division with a 10-6 record that season, but the Week 3 return was about more than wins and losses for the community."I don't think the city would have returned without the Saints," Benson told Larry Holder of NOLA.com in 2016. "That was a tough decision because we were getting a lot of pressure from other ways. That was some bad times, but we lived through it. We worked through it too."2010 - Saints win Super Bowl XLIVThe Brees and Payton Show continued to dominate NFL defenses after its first season of success, but the team missed the playoffs in 2007 and '08 before restocking with some key pieces to make a run at something bigger.After improving the defense, the Saints saw immediate results as they started the 2009 season on a 13-0 run, earning a bye in the opening round of the playoffs and home-field advantage.New Orleans then got a clutch interception from Tracy Porter in the dying minutes of the NFC Championship Game to advance to Super Bowl XLIV in Miami against Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts.The title game was full of more dramatics - including a surprise onside kick out of halftime, a high-scoring second half, and another clutch Porter pick - as the Saints won their first championship, 31-17.Considering the state of the franchise when Benson first took over, it would have been hard to imagine the Saints lifting the Lombardi Trophy. And when Katrina hit, the chances of a championship in New Orleans seemed even more unlikely. That's why the team's incredible journey from the "Aints" to the top of the football world created a legacy that will make it impossible to forget the man behind it, Mr. Tom Benson.(Photos credit: Getty Images)Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The New York Jets are re-signing cornerback Morris Claiborne on a one-year, $7-million contract, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.Claiborne, 28, joined the Jets last season and started all 15 games he was active for, making 43 tackles, eight pass deflections, and one interception. He and the freshly signed Trumaine Johnson will likely be the Jets' starting corners next season.The former sixth overall pick is entering his seventh season in the league after spending the first five years with the Dallas Cowboys.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Los Angeles Rams are keeping receiver Tavon Austin on a restructured contract after reportedly deciding to move on from him in February, reports Vincent Bonsignore of Los Angeles Daily News.Austin was set to have an $8-million cap hit in 2018 with a base salary of $3 million and $5 million guaranteed. He's restructured his deal so that the $3-million base salary becomes incentive-based and his cap hit is reduced to $5 million, reports Bonsignore.The former first-round pick was particularly disappointing in 2017 as the rest of the Rams' offense flourished, catching just 13 passes for 47 yards while rushing for 270 yards on 59 attempts. If his 2018 production is similar, the restructured contract will essentially cost the same as if the Rams had cut Austin.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Former first-round tight end Eric Ebron is set to visit with the Carolina Panthers on Friday and the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, a source told Adam Schefter of ESPN.It was also suggested to Schefter that Ebron will subsequently meet with the New England Patriots if he leaves both prior destinations unsigned.Ebron was released by the Detroit Lions after four seasons, having failed to live up to his lofty draft status.However, the athletic tight end is just 24 years old and has three 500-yard seasons on his resume, including a 61-catch, 711-yard campaign in 2015 in just 13 games.All three interested teams already have locked-in starters at tight end but are likely doing their due diligence on one of the more intriguing offensive names left on the market.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Oakland Raiders have signed free-agent linebacker Tahir Whitehead, the team announced Thursday. The deal is a three-year contract worth more than $6 million annually, a source told Michael Gehlken of the Las Vegas Review Journal.Whitehead, 27, gives the Raiders some much-needed help in the middle of their defense, particularly against the run. The former Detroit Lions starter notched at least 110 tackles in each of his last two seasons, adding an interception and a sack in 2017.The six-year pro had spent his entire career with the Lions.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Ndamukong Suh free-agent tour is truly underway.The star defensive tackle is set to meet with the Tennessee Titans following his visit to the New Orleans Saints, a source told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.The 31-year-old may take his time choosing his next home, Rapoport adds, and will likely visit more teams after the Titans.Suh would form a dominant duo with fellow Pro Bowler Jurrell Casey if he ultimately picks Tennessee, boosting the already fourth-ranked Titans run defense.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Baltimore Ravens' agreement with Ryan Grant has been voided after the free-agent wideout failed a physical, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.Grant agreed to a four-year, $29-million deal, but will now venture back into the free-agent market to try to find a team willing to pass him on his physical, added Schefter.The specifics of Grant's health issue are unknown.The Ravens reportedly moved quickly to find a replacement, organizing a visit with the recently-released Michael Crabtree.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

After being released by the Oakland Raiders on Thursday, wide receiver Michael Crabtree is scheduled for his first free-agent visit with the Baltimore Ravens on Friday, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter.The Ravens have put an emphasis on the receiver position this offseason, already adding John Brown and Ryan Grant and releasing veteran Jeremy Maclin.Crabtree, 30, showed he could still be a productive player in his ninth season, catching 58 passes for 618 yards and eight touchdowns through 14 games as the Raiders had a down year in 2017.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Tom Benson, the owner of the New Orleans Saints and New Orleans Pelicans, died Thursday afternoon at the age of 90 after being hospitalized at the Ochsner Medical Center with the flu since Feb. 16, the Saints announced.Benson bought the Saints in 1985 and took over the New Orleans Hornets in 2012, renaming the team as the Pelicans. He remained the controlling owner of both clubs until his death.He was born and raised in New Orleans and spent time in the U.S. Navy during the Second World War before working his way up the chain at Chevrolet, eventually establishing a multi-dealership organization throughout Louisiana and South Texas. On the back of his success with Chevrolet, Benson joined the banking business in 1972 and built the Benson Financial World, which allowed him to buy the Saints and, later on, the Pelicans.Benson enjoyed 11 playoff berths and a Super Bowl championship with the Saints as well as helping to host five Super Bowls in the Big Easy. In his short time as owner of the Pelicans, the team made the playoffs once.The New Orleans native has been credited by some for saving professional sports in his hometown as the Saints were on the verge of being sold to parties hoping to move the club to Jacksonville. The then-Hornets had also been rumored for relocation prior to Benson stepping up in 2012. Benson also played a strong role in the recovery efforts after Hurricane Katrina in 2005.Benson's wife, Gayle, was at her husband's side at the time of his death and is the sole heir to both the Saints and Pelicans.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery - or so they say.If that's truly the case, the Eagles should be blushing over how much the Bears clearly respect the way Philadelphia transformed its once talent-poor roster into a Super Bowl winner in just a few years. Chicago started down the same path as the Eagles last offseason, and has continued to follow the blueprint this time around.Just like the Eagles and Carson Wentz, the Bears' plan is centered around a young quarterback in Mitch Trubisky, and started with the dramatic trade up last year to snag him with the No. 2 overall pick.The Bears and Eagles both gave up significant draft assets to acquire their franchise quarterbacks, and in both cases, critics believed the teams would struggle to surround those pivots with a strong supporting cast due to a lack of resources.Yet, having a rookie quarterback who could essentially start from Day 1 has given both rebuilding clubs much more financial freedom. Here's Trubisky's rookie contract, which - thanks to the wage scale - is almost identical to Wentz's in terms of yearly cap hits, via Spotrac.YearCap hit (to nearest hundreth) 2017$5.28M2018$6.6M2019$7.92M2020$9.24M2021(5th-year option)So, because Trubisky costs around a quarter of the going rate for a starting quarterback, the Bears can afford to be aggressive in rebuilding their roster following four straight double-digit-loss seasons, knowing they won't have to worry about the league's most expensive position until at least 2020.And Chicago been very aggressive in the first few days of free agency to fix the 30th-ranked offense from last season.Allen Robinson, one of the top two free-agent receivers available, signed a reported three-year, $42-million contract with Chicago, giving Trubisky the No. 1 wideout he desperately lacked in his rookie campaign.Then, the Bears found another big-bodied receiving weapon for their young pivot in tight end Trey Burton, who spent the last four seasons with the Eagles (likely not a coincidence), handing him a four-year, $32-million deal.Finally, Chicago added some speed on the outside by inking former Falcons receiver Taylor Gabriel to a deal worth up to $7 million per season with incentives.Does the combination of Robinson, Burton, and Gabriel remind you of another pass-catching group?New Bears head coach Matt Nagy - just like Eagles head coach Doug Pederson - is a disciple of the Chiefs' Andy Reid, and will likely want to run the same spread-based offense he and Pederson learned while working as coordinators in Kansas City.Robinson will act as the Bears' version of Alshon Jeffery, Burton will be Zach Ertz (or Travis Kelce), and Gabriel should slot into the Torrey Smith/Tyreek Hill role.Beyond those three, Chicago has Jordan Howard to act as the Kareem Hunt-like workhorse, Tarik Cohen as the perfect do-it-all spark plug, and other pass-catchers like Cameron Meredith and Adam Shaheen who can excel in supporting roles.Of course, this plan will ultimately be less effective if the young quarterback doesn't explode into an MVP candidate in his sophomore year.However, while Trubisky hasn't played at Wentz's level, neither did Wentz in his first NFL season, when the likes of Ryan Mathews and Jordan Matthews had starring roles in Philly.Wentz attempted 110 more passes as a rookie than Trubisky did, throwing for nine more touchdowns and nearly 1,600 more yards. However, he also had seven more interceptions, a worse yards-per-attempt average, less rushing yards, and Pederson - not ex-Bears coach John Fox - on the sideline.Expecting the more passive Trubisky to become the dominant force that Wentz was before his knee injury is very optimistic, but the two do share similar traits, such as good pocket mobility, the ability to throw on the run, enough arm strength to make every pass, and great toughness.Trubisky is more than capable of running the same offense that Wentz does in Philadelphia, and thanks to its strong start in free agency, Chicago doesn't need him to be an All-Pro or even a top-10 quarterback before the end of his rookie contract to be successful.The Bears might not be Super Bowl contenders this season - they play in perhaps the league's toughest division and lack the foundational defensive pieces that helped propel the Eagles' quick turnaround - but they've set themselves up to compete sooner rather than later by smartly surrounding their promising and inexpensive quarterback with weapons all over the field.

The Washington Redskins have re-signed linebacker Zach Brown to a three-year contract with a max value of $24 million, a source told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.Brown excelled in his first year in Washington, racking up a team-leading 127 total tackles, 2.5 sacks, and two passes defensed.Allowing Brown to test the market was a risky strategy for Washington, who could have been left with a significant hole in the middle of its defense had he signed elsewhere.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Jacksonville Jaguars are set to sign free-agent tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins to a two-year contract worth up to $11 million, a source told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.Seferian-Jenkins produced a comeback season in 2017, catching 50 passes for the Jets following two seasons (one in New York, one with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers) in which had a combined 13 catches and looked on his way out of the league.The Jaguars have already added receiver Donte Moncrief and All-Pro guard Andrew Norwell and re-signed Marqise Lee. The signing of Seferian-Jenkins gives Jacksonville a long-needed threat from the tight-end position.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Oakland Raiders are signing wide receiver Jordy Nelson to a two-year contract worth $15 million, with $13 million guaranteed, former teammate and current NFL Network analyst James Jones reports.Nelson will likely start alongside Amari Cooper following the reported release of Michael Crabtree.The 32-year-old's streak of 1,000-yard seasons was stopped at three in 2017, as he struggled without his longtime quarterback Aaron Rodgers. He finished the season with 482 yards on 53 catches and averaged just 9.1 yards per catch.However, Nelson is a dominant red-zone player, having caught 27 touchdowns combined in 2014 and 2016 (he missed all of the 2015 campaign due to a torn ACL).Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Instead of releasing Jason McCourty, as they announced they would early Thursday, the Cleveland Browns traded the cornerback to the New England Patriots, where he'll join his twin brother, Devin.The Patriots will also receive a 2018 seventh-round pick in exchange for a 2018 sixth-round pick.In one year in Cleveland after eight seasons in Tennessee, McCourty recorded three interceptions, two forced fumbles, and 14 passes defensed. He's expected to draw a strong market for his services.He'll now join his brother, who has played for New England his entire career since being drafted in the first round of the 2010 draft.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Oakland Raiders are releasing wide receiver Michael Crabtree after three seasons, a source told Adam Schefter of ESPN.The move makes room for a new addition as the Raiders are reportedly signing former Green Bay Packers receiver Jordy Nelson to a two-year, $15-million deal.Crabtree produced his lowest yardage output as a member of the Raiders in 2017 and was suspended for one game for his latest encounter with Aqib Talib.The Raiders will save around $7.7 million in cap space by parting ways with the veteran receiver, according to Spotrac.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Quarterbacks hoping to be selected with the No. 1 pick in the 2018 draft appear set for disappointment.Cleveland Browns head coach Hue Jackson said Thursday that veteran quarterback Tyrod Taylor will be the team's starter in 2018, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. "There is no competition," he added.The Browns hold the No. 1 and No. 4 picks in April's draft and have been widely expected to pick a signal-caller from a group consisting of Sam Darnold, Josh Rosen, Josh Allen, Baker Mayfield, and Lamar Jackson.Cleveland acquired Taylor from the Buffalo Bills in exchange for a third-round pick last week.He'll turn 29 in August and is coming off a 2017 season in which he recorded 2,799 passing yards, 14 touchdowns, and four interceptions with a completion rate of 62.6 percent. He added another 427 yards and four touchdowns as a rusher.Taylor has never played a full 16-game season in his three years as a starter.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Kirk Cousins is officially a Minnesota Viking.The free-agent quarterback signed a three-year contract with the team, his agent, Mike McCartney, confirmed Thursday.

One of the biggest remaining free agents is reportedly off the market.The Carolina Panthers have reached an agreement with defensive tackle Dontari Poe, a source told Kimberley A. Martin of the Washington Post.The deal is for three years at a value of between $9 million and $10 million per year, a source told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.The 6-foot-3, 346-pound defensive stalwart spent the 2017 season with the NFC South-rival Atlanta Falcons, recording 39 combined tackles, 2.5 sacks, and two passes defensed.Poe spent the first five years of his career with the Kansas City Chiefs, after being chosen with the 11th overall pick of the 2012 draft. He made back-to-back Pro Bowl appearances in 2013 and 2014.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Cincinnati Bengals and tight end Tyler Eifert have reached an agreement on a one-year deal to keep him in Ohio, a source told Adam Schefter of ESPN.Eifert's deal is worth a maximum of $8 million, a source told Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.The 27-year-old made the Pro Bowl in 2015, but has only played in 10 games since due to back, ankle, and knee injuries.The Bengals' only other legitimate tight end is Tyler Kroft - who had over 400 yards last season - so bringing back Eifert gives Cincinnati a solid tandem and allows the oft-injured pass-catcher to reestablish his value before seeking a longer-term deal.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Baker Mayfield's NFL draft journey is the focus of a new documentary series."Behind Baker" promises "never-before-seen access" as it follows the Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback through the NFL combine and his pro day, culminating with the draft itself."Baker reveals his mental drive, expectations, and who is he is in his own voice including what he has to offer scouts, critics, NFL owners, brands, fans, and foes," the series' website reads.

The Oakland Raiders have agreed to terms with free-agent running back Doug Martin on a one-year deal, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports.Martin was released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Feb. 20 after a disappointing 2017 season. He began the year finishing a suspension he drew in 2016 and returned to rush for 406 yards and just 2.9 yards per carry in 11 games.Martin was first suspended at the close of the 2016 season for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing drugs, believed to be for Adderall. Martin entered rehab and said he returned "in a good place."The Raiders were led in rushing last season by Marshawn Lynch, who finished the year with 891 yards and seven touchdowns.Jon Gruden, who left the broadcast booth to return to the Raiders' sidelines, said he'd like to have Lynch back in the fold. It remains to be seen how Oakland's backfield will shape out.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Having acquired defensive backs Damarious Randall, T.J. Carrie, and Terrance Mitchell, the Cleveland Browns are releasing veteran corner Jason McCourty, reports NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, citing a source.McCourty confirmed his departure on Twitter:

Free-agent defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson is visiting the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday, a source told Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk.The Seattle Seahawks offered Richardson a deal worth $11 million per year, but he's seeking $15 million, according to Mike Garafolo of NFL Network.Richardson, 27, spent the 2017 season with the Seahawks, playing in and starting 15 games. He collected 44 combined tackles, one sack, one interception, and two fumble recoveries.He was originally drafted 13th overall by the New York Jets in the 2013 draft and was named the Defensive Rookie of the Year. He made the Pro Bowl in his sophomore season.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Miami Dolphins have a two-year agreement in place with guard Josh Sitton, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter.The deal is worth up to $18 million, with $8 million guaranteed, a source told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.Related - Report: Dolphins expected to grant Pouncey's request to be releasedSitton, who was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the fourth round in 2008, is a four-time Pro Bowler.He's coming off a two-year stint with the Chicago Bears and was graded as Pro Football Focus' No. 5 guard last season.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The New Orleans Saints are interested in star free-agent defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh and are working to bring him in for a visit, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.This would be Suh's first visit since he was released by the Miami Dolphins.New Orleans is in need of reinforcements on the interior of the defensive line, as pass-rusher Cameron Jordan shouldered a heavy burden last season and the run defense gave up an average of 4.4 yards per carry (27th in the league).The market for Suh is expected to be strong. The Saints currently have just under $10 million in cap space, according to Spotrac, so some cuts or contract restructures will likely be needed to land the five-time Pro Bowler.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

NFL free agency officially kicked off Wednesday when the new league year opened with a flurry of signings, releases, and trades as a number of big names relocated to new cities.During the hyperactivity, six teams stood out from the pack. Which team improved the most via free agency? Here are the candidates:Cleveland BrownsAdditions: WR Jarvis Landry, QB Tyrod Taylor, RB Carlos Hyde, CB Damarious Randall, CB T.J. Carrie, TE Darren Fells, CB Terrance Mitchell, OL Chris Hubbard

Miami Dolphins center Mike Pouncey has requested his release and the team is expected to grant it Thursday, a source told Adam Schefter of ESPN.The three-time Pro Bowler will be the latest significant departure from the Dolphins, following the release of Ndamukong Suh and Jarvis Landry's trade to the Cleveland Browns.The Dolphins will save $7 million in cap space by cutting him.Pouncey told Joe Chad of the Palm Beach Post that he asked to be cut because Miami didn't want to extend his contract. T"I know my career isn’t over," Pouncey said.Pouncey is signed through the 2020 season, but has struggled with injury, though he did start all 16 regular-seaosn games in 2017.A former first-round pick, Pouncey will likely have a strong market in what is a weak free-agent offensive linemen class.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Jordy Nelson's stay on the free-agent market may be a short one.The Oakland Raiders are trying to finalize a deal with Nelson, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter."This is going to get done," a source told Schefter of the talks between the team and receiver.Nelson was released Tuesday by the Green Bay Packers. He had meetings planned with the Seattle Seahawks and New Orleans Saints, but he may not get out of Oakland without a deal.The 32-year-old former Pro Bowler played in and started 15 games last season, but he suffered mightily amid quarterback Aaron Rodgers' absence due to injury. He caught 53 of 88 targets for 482 yards and six touchdowns, his lowest receiving total since his sophomore season.The Raiders are likely to release wide receiver Michael Crabtree if they're able to sign Nelson, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.Crabtree, 30, totaled 618 yards and eight touchdowns last season. He has two years left on his contract with cap hits of $7.7 million in 2018 and $8.25 million in 2019.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Playoff-bound teams scratching star players late in the season is a widespread strategy in the NFL, but it can often come at the players' expense.Breakout star wide receiver Robert Woods was a healthy scratch in Week 17, which likely cost him $200,000 in performance bonuses. The Los Angeles Rams, though, righted a wrong based on that decision in a tongue-in-cheek way.The Rams made it up to Woods on Wednesday by renogotiating his deal to add $200,019 to a $3-million roster bonus he's due this offseason, a league source told ESPN's Field Yates.Woods finished his first season with the Rams with 781 receiving yards in just 12 games, earning him a $400,000 bonus. If he'd reached the 800-yard mark, his bonus would've been $600,000.That extra $19 was added as a subtle acknowledgment of his career year.Based on Woods' 13.9 yards per reception average, he would've needed just two catches to exceed the 19 yards for him to claim the extra $200,000 in the final week of the season.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Houston Texans have agreed to the terms of a two-year contract to re-sign veteran cornerback Johnathan Joseph, a source told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.Joseph was drafted 24th overall by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2006. He has spent the past seven seasons with the Texans, making two Pro Bowl appearances.The 33-year-old played and started in all 16 games in 2017, recording two interceptions and a touchdown return.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton and longtime girlfriend Kia Proctor have another baby on the way.Proctor made the announcement Tuesday on Instagram, posting a photo of her baby bump.

JuJu Smith-Schuster became part of video game history early Thursday morning.The Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver joined professional gamer Tyler Blevins - better known as Ninja - and rappers Drake and Travis Scott to play Fortnite on the streaming platform Twitch. The group's stream had over 635,000 concurrent viewers at its peak, breaking the previous non-tournament record of 388,000, according to Polygon.Related - Smith-Schuster: Toughest adjustment to NFL is no more late-night gaming

Dallas Cowboys center Travis Frederick will restructure his contract to save the team approximately $7.5 million in cap space, Jane Slater of NFL Network reports.Frederick was named to his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl in 2017 and has been a major component of the Cowboys' outstanding offensive line since being selected in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft.The veteran center was scheduled to earn $10 million in base salary for the 2018 season, holding a $12.3-million cap hit.It's quite possible the Cowboys will use the extra cap space to pursue a marquee free agent, with the market opening officially on Wednesday.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

It appears the NFL's fifth all-time leading rusher has found a new home.Free-agent running back Frank Gore and the Detroit Lions are reportedly close to an agreement, a source told USA Today's Mike Jones.The five-time Pro Bowler rushed for 961 yards and three touchdowns for the Colts last season. He spent three years with the team after spending ten seasons with the 49ers.Detroit had the league's worst rushing offense in 2017 and could continue looking for upgrades in the backfield. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that running back LeGarrette Blount will visit the team Friday.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

With the NFL's clumsily named "legal tampering" period over and players finally able to put pen to paper, we identify the biggest beneficiaries and flops of the 2018 free-agency period so far.Winners Mitchell TrubiskyOften overwhelmed as a rookie, 2017's second overall pick has been set up for sophomore success with the Bears' additions of No. 1 receiver Allen Robinson, deep threat Taylor Gabriel, and "move" tight end Trey Burton, as well as offensive-minded head coach Matt Nagy earlier this offseason. There's recent precedent for Trubisky taking a massive leap in his second year: Rams pivot Jared Goff did it last season after his team followed a similar offseason plan.Veteran running backsLast offseason, Latavius Murray’s three-year, $15-million deal with the Vikings was the richest multi-year contract signed by any tailback. A year later and Murray’s Minnesota backfield partner Jerick McKinnon blew the lid off that total with a four-year deal worth $30 million with the 49ers. Dion Lewis also made bank, signing with the Titans for four years and $20 million. Neither McKinnon nor Lewis profile as a workhorse, but both are now among the 10 highest-paid running backs in football.NFLPAIt finally happened: a multi-year, fully guaranteed contract. Kirk Cousins' three-year, $84-million pact with the Vikings isn't just historic in that it will make him the highest-paid player in NFL history by average annual value, but it could set a precedent of fully guaranteed deals that will fundamentally shift the balance of power in free agency from teams to players.Offensive tackles nearing free agencyThe highest-paid offensive tackle in football is now Nate Solder, a 29-year-old who has never been to the Pro Bowl. Solder was a steady but wholly unspectacular presence on Tom Brady's blindside, and his record four-year, $62-million contract from the Giants raised some eyebrows - particularly among Solder's younger and more talented LT peers. Players such as Taylor Lewan of the Titans and Jake Matthews of the Falcons are going to break the bank when they hit the market next offseason. And it wouldn't be shocking to see elite tackles like Tyron Smith and Trent Williams hold out for more money, as their once-monstrous deals suddenly look miniature.Drew Brees' legacyWe knew Drew Brees wouldn't leave the Bayou - not with his Saints seemingly on the verge of what would be a career-capping Super Bowl win - but the money Brees seems to have left on the table to stay home is truly staggering. One report suggests Brees could have earned $60 million fully guaranteed over two years elsewhere; instead, he opted for a Saints deal with a maximum value of $50 million over two years and just $20.7 million in base compensation in 2018. The statue they build for him better be gold-plated.Packers fansJordy Nelson's release was painful for the cheesehead faithful, but at least it was offset by the Packers finally making some moves in March. Jimmy Graham and Muhammad Wilkerson are two very big fish to catch.LosersQB-needy teams spurned by Kirk CousinsNews that Cousins had chosen the Vikings sent other quarterback-needy teams into a whirlwind of panicked "Plan B" moves that resulted in a handful of mediocre passers getting overpaid. The Broncos committed $36 million over two years to journeyman Case Keenum, the Jets brought back the deteriorating Josh McCown and then supplemented him with walking question mark Teddy Bridgewater, and the Cardinals doubled down on uninspiring and unathletic QBs by adding Sam Bradford (for $20 million!) and Mike Glennon. None of the teams that missed on Cousins bought any real stability at quarterback, and all three remain likely to address the position in the first round of the draft.PatriotsThere haven't been many down times during the Bill Belichick and Tom Brady era, but it has to hurt to watch as Malcolm Butler, Dion Lewis, Danny Amendola, and Nate Solder - all keys to the Patriots' recent Super Bowl runs - jump ship in a matter of hours.Saquon BarkleyThe highly touted running back prospect's chances of being selected first overall took a major hit with the Browns signing former 49ers tailback Carlos Hyde to a three-year deal worth $15 million. Barkley could still hear his name called second overall, or even fourth overall to the Browns, but it's now all but a lock the Browns will target a franchise passer with the No. 1 pick.Draft-eligible receiversThe Chiefs and Bears stated loudly and clearly what they think of this draft's crop of receivers when they gave Sammy Watkins and Allen Robinson mega-deals worth $48 million and $42 million, respectively. Even more telling: Paul Richardson getting $40 million from the Redskins and Ryan Grant (we'll give you a minute to look up who he is) getting a staggering $29 million from the Ravens despite no evidence either is a top-flight talent. There's no Odell Beckham Jr. or Amari Cooper in this draft class, but with the way teams are fighting over veteran pass-catching scraps, it raises the question of whether there's even a Corey Coleman or Josh Doctson.DolphinsFirst, the Dolphins traded away their best receiver, Jarvis Landry, rather than giving him a long-term deal. Then, they decided to cut their top defensive player, Ndamukong Suh - and take a huge dead salary cap hit to do so - in the name of "culture change." There are many different ways to build a Super Bowl contender, but ditching your best players on both sides of the ball isn't one.ColtsWith a lot of money to spend and holes up and down the roster to fill, the Colts have been curiously quiet in free agency so far. Perhaps GM Chris Ballard's conservatism will pay off - he's avoided overpaying anyone, at least - but it's hard to see how the Colts won't waste Andrew Luck's prime years unless they hurry to improve his supporting cast.(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Washington Redskins' trade for quarterback Alex Smith became official Wednesday, one month after the deal was first reported, and head coach Jay Gruden is a fan of his new passer."It became about how, going into free agency, are we going to chase (former Washington quarterback) Kirk (Cousins) around or go after Teddy Bridgewater," Redskins coach Jay Gruden told ESPN's John Keim of his team's approach. "You have a chance to get an established quarterback who has been as successful as (Smith) has been, consistently. So really it was a no-brainer."Gruden is excited about Smith's fit within Washington's offensive scheme, and cited the quarterback's ability to scramble as a potential game-changer."(Smith's mobility is) something you can’t coach," Gruden said. "Some quarterbacks are better than others, and Alex is one of the best at it. He’s a problem when he gets outside the pocket. His movement skills are very, very underrated. He can really, really run."And while the head coach was disappointed to lose cornerback Kendall Fuller in the trade for Smith, he said finding stability under center was the priority."I was surprised, very surprised (by the trade)," Gruden said. "But the chance to get a quarterback in here for the next four, five, six years is exciting."Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Malcolm Butler joined the Tennessee Titans on a five-year, $61-million contract this week, officially putting an end to his tenure with the New England Patriots.Now, the man who was benched during Super Bowl LII provided a candid explanation as to why he was tethered to the sideline against the Philadelphia Eagles.Butler was expected to start against the Eagles but was instead relegated to one snap on special teams, watching helplessly as the Patriots lost 41-33.After signing with the Titans, Butler provided his account of the game to Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald."I never got a reason. I feel like this was the reason: I got kind of sick, I went to the hospital. They probably thought I was kind of late on the game plan; I wasn't as locked in as I should be and could have been a matchup deal. It could have been anything. But Bill Belichick has been doing this for a very long time. He took a veteran out of Super Bowl XLIX and put in a first-year rookie, and that turned out right, so you could never question his decision. It didn't work out right. It didn't work out the best for me or him or the New England Patriots. But I can say he won more than he lost, so it is what it is. I always have love for New England, Bill Belichick, Mr. Kraft, all those guys. Life just goes on."Butler will live forever as a Patriots hero after recording a game-sealing interception in Super Bowl XLIX to preserve a victory over the Seattle Seahawks. Although we may never find out what led to the circumstances of his final game with the Patriots, it appears Butler has found closure.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

NFL Draft hopeful Baker Mayfield completed his final public workout Wednesday at Oklahoma's Pro Day.As Mayfield battles to be the first quarterback selected in April, the pivot is confident NFL teams will value him as much as he values himself behind center."It's kind of interesting to think, before the season, people had me at a third- or fourth-round grade," Mayfield said after his Pro Day, according to ESPN's Jake Trotter. "I've put myself in a good spot to be considered the best quarterback in the draft."Satisfied with his performance at the NFL combine, the signal-caller stood on his numbers, but still went through passing drills for scouts and coaches traveling to Norman, Okla.The former Sooner also turned heads at Lucas Oil Stadium, declaring that if anyone could turn the Browns around, it would be him. On Wednesday, he still appeared intrigued by the idea of being selected by a rebuilding franchise, but would also be comfortable going to a winning one."You can look at it like coming here (Oklahoma), a winning tradition, it would be like going to a franchise with a winning tradition," he said. "But then at the same time, if I went to a franchise that hasn't done well recently, I'd love to be the one to turn it around if I get the chance to do so."Mayfield is squarely in contention to be selected near the top of the draft on April 26. The Jets, Dolphins, Browns, Bills, and Broncos have all reportedly expressed interest in the accomplished passer.The Heisman Trophy winner also reiterated that he won't be attending the NFL draft at AT&T Stadium, and is instead planning to watch from his hometown of Austin, Texas.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Kirk Cousins apparently has his backup in Minnesota.The Vikings are finalizing a trade for Denver Broncos quarterback Trevor Siemian, a source told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.Denver will send Siemian and a 2018 late-round pick to Minnesota in exchange for a 2019 draft selection, a source told Adam Schefter of ESPN.The former seventh-round pick started 24 games over the past two seasons but was unable to cement his place as the Broncos' long-term option under center.The Broncos signed Case Keenum to a two-year contract Wednesday, making Siemian dispensible.Cousins reportedly plans on signing a fully-guaranteed three-year deal with the Vikings and will have a strong second voice in the quarterback room upon his official arrival.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Miami Dolphins have released tight end Julius Thomas, the team announced.Thomas' release will save the Dolphins $6.6 million in cap space, according to Spotrac.Acquired from the Jaguars in February 2017, the veteran caught 41 passes for 388 yards and three touchdowns. He has not eclipsed 500 receiving yards since 2013.Miami continues to shake up its roster, also parting ways with four-time first-team All-Pro Ndamukong Suh.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill has restructured his contract, giving his team more cap space for the upcoming season, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

The New England Patriots have agreed to bring back free-agent running back Rex Burkhead on a multi-year contract, a source told Jim McBride of the Boston Globe.It's a three-year deal that's "heavy" on guaranteed money, a source told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.Burkhead produced a solid first year in New England as part of the team's crowded backfield, ending the 2017 season with 264 rushing yards and 254 receiving yards in 10 appearances.With former Patriot Dion Lewis reportedly headed to the Tennessee Titans, Burkhead is in line for an expanded role in a tandem with James White.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Miami Dolphins released Ndamukong Suh on Wednesday with a post-June 1 designation, freeing up a big chunk of cap space while one of the league's elite defensive tackles hits the open market. The 31-year-old is still playing at a high level and likely wants to remain one of the best-paid players at his position. Early in free agency, several teams can afford to bring in the five-time Pro Bowler.Here are six clubs that could be in the running to land the NFL's most infamous stomper.New York JetsEstimated cap room: $81.2MWhile they may eventually regret such a decision, the Jets have the ability to give Suh a blank check to convince him to come to New York. The team already made Trumaine Johnson the highest-paid cornerback in the NFL and still has among the most cap space in the league. Suh and 23-year-old Leonard Williams could create a dynamic duo that would give the Jets a new identity.Suh has also shown a lot of interest in expanding his business portfolio, interning with Dolphins owner Stephen Ross' real estate company in Manhattan last offseason. The big-city lure of New York plus a hefty salary may be exactly what Suh is searching for.Indianapolis ColtsEstimated cap room: $73.3MThe Colts are well-suited to offer Suh a deal that would maintain his status as one of the three highest-paid defensive tackles, and presumably present him a better chance to win than the Jets. The Colts are switching to a 4-3 defense this season, and could use players with extended experience in that system. They're also set to get a healthy Andrew Luck back and hired a new head coach fresh off a Super Bowl win. The city of Indianapolis may not be as attractive as New York, Miami, or even Detroit, but if Suh wants to hunker down and focus on football for the last years of his prime, the Colts may be his next team.Tampa Bay BuccaneersEstimated cap room: $60.1MThe 31-year-old came into the league alongside another premier defensive tackle in Gerald McCoy, who was drafted one spot after Suh in 2010. Now he has the chance to play beside him and give a big boost to a struggling Buccaneers D-line while staying in Florida's warm weather. There's at least one player for Suh to pair up with on any D-line, so Tampa Bay's biggest selling point may be familiarity, since he would be moving to the closest franchise.Washington RedskinsEstimated cap room: $29.5MWildly overpaying Suh would fit the Redskins' reputation perfectly. He would run the risk of being compared to Albert Haynesworth forever if the deal didn't result in immediate success, but Suh already isn't very well-liked by players or fans, so that may not bother him much. Washington's defense ranked last against the run in 2017 and could certainly use Suh - the team will just need to pay big to get it.Oakland RaidersEstimated cap room: $28.5MThe middle of the Raiders' defense needs help in the worst way, and Suh's "I don't care if you like me" attitude could bring back memories of the old-school black and silver. Oakland has a few needs to fill, so giving Suh a deal in the $16-million-per-season range he's seeking could squeeze them tight against the cap, but it isn't impossible. The Raiders have been a hot free-agent destination the last two offseasons, though have yet to make a major splash in 2018's market.Seattle SeahawksEstimated cap room: $27.8MThe exodus from Seattle this offseason left a lot of holes in the Seahawks' roster, but also created enough cap room to go after Suh, an Oregon native who's been training in the city as recently as Tuesday. With Michael Bennett traded, Sheldon Richardson likely departing in free agency, and Cliff Avril coming off a career-threatening injury, the Seahawks' defense will lack the talent it's been accustomed to on the line in recent years. They may be one of the only teams Suh would consider taking a discount for, since they can offer him the closest thing to a hometown return.(Salary-cap figures courtesy: Spotrac)Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.