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on (#32D8R)
Alex Smith's days with the Kansas City Chiefs could be numbered.The Chiefs are expected to listen to offers for their veteran quarterback after the season, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports. Rookie quarterback Patrick Mahomes II turned heads with his play in the preseason and is expected to take over for Smith at some point.Smith himself seems to think he'll be gone in the offseason, as he recently stated he believes he'll be playing for a new team in 2018. The Chiefs traded up to take Mahomes 10th overall in the 2017 NFL Draft and Smith is set to make $14.5 million next season, so it's likely Kansas City tries to go with the cheaper option at the position.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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| Updated | 2026-05-09 02:31 |
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on (#32D8T)
The New Orleans Saints aren't presently interested in trading running back Adrian Peterson despite his struggles in Week 1 and apparent issues with his role and head coach Sean Payton, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.Schefter added a move may be considered closer to the trade deadline, but that the Saints understand it can take time to adjust to a new offensive scheme.Peterson appeared to stare Payton down on the sidelines during Week 1's loss to the Minnesota Vikings, in which he played just nine snaps.Both played down the incident after the game, though Peterson said he didn't sign up to play such a small role, with Payton retorting that the plan was never to use Peterson extensively like he was when he was with the Minnesota Vikings.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32D66)
Miami Dolphins linebacker Lawrence Timmons won't play Sunday against the Los Angeles Chargers after "something angered him" and he left the team, though the Dolphins know his location, the Miami Herald's Armando Salguero reports.While whatever incident caused Timmons to leave is unknown at this point, the veteran wasn't arrested and didn't "run afoul of (the) law," added Salguero.Mike Hull should see an expanded role next to Kiko Alonso in Timmons' absence.Timmons joined the Dolphins as a free agent this offseason after 10 seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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by Michael McClymont on (#32D68)
The New York Giants believe there is a "good chance" star receiver Odell Beckham Jr. will play in Monday's game against the Detroit Lions, though his status is still "up in the air," ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.Beckham missed the first game of the season with an ankle injury he suffered in Week 2 of the preseason. The wideout revealed he was initially given a six-to-eight-week recovery timeline. It will be four weeks since he sustained the injury on Monday.Beckham returned to practice this week and got in only limited sessions from Thursday through Saturday.Nonetheless, Lions coach Jim Caldwell is preparing for Beckham to play."We look at it as if we anticipate that he's going to play," Caldwell said, according to The Associated Press. "We go at it that way. If he doesn't, he doesn't, and we adjust."The Giants managed just three points without Beckham in the lineup last week.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32D69)
Warning: Videos contain coarse language
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on (#32D6B)
New York Giants corner Janoris Jenkins has been downgraded to questionable for Monday's contest against the Detroit Lions, according to Ralph Vacchiano of SNY.Jenkins was a full participant in practice all week, but is battling ankle and hand injuries.He harassed Dallas Cowboys star receiver Dez Bryant all game in Week 1, holding him to two catches for 43 yards.Jackrabbit will have an extra day to get right for the Monday night battle.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32D6C)
The Arizona Cardinals will be missing more than just David Johnson when they take on the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.The Cardinals will also be without four other offensive starters, as tight end Jermaine Gresham, receiver John Brown, as well as offensive linemen Mike Iupati and D.J. Humphries are sidelined with injuries. That's bad news for a unit that struggled to move the ball in a Week 1 loss to the Detroit Lions. Kerwynn Williams will get the start at running back, while Ifeanyi Momah slots in at tight end. Alex Boone and John Wetzel will fill in on the offensive line.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32D3H)
Jacksonville Jaguars corner Jalen Ramsey will suit up for Sunday's game against the Tennessee Titans.The sophomore was listed as questionable after missing three days of practice this week due to an ankle injury suffered in Week 1.The pairing of Ramsey with offseason addition A.J. Bouye gives the Jaguars lockdown defensive backs against the Titans' 12th-ranked offense.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32D1A)
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Bradford is inactive for Sunday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers due to a knee injury.Case Keenum will start in Bradford's absence.It's a significant blow, especially as Bradford is coming off a scintillating performance in Week 1 against the New Orleans Saints.However, Bradford's knee issues are only expected to keep him out for this week, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.Bradford was limited in practice throughout the week after reportedly experiencing pain and swelling in his twice surgically-repaired knee.Keenum is a solid backup, having started 14 games over the past two seasons, but could struggle against a strong Steelers defense.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32D3M)
If Adrian Peterson expects to receive more carries going forward in the New Orleans Saints backfield, he may be sorely disappointed.Saints head coach Sean Payton told Jane Slater of NFL Network the plan was never to use Peterson they way he was used with the Minnesota Vikings."I don’t think we’ve ever discussed featuring him like he was featured in Minnesota," Payton said.The 32-year-old received only six carries in a Week 1 loss to the Vikings, as he split time with Alvin Kamara and Mark Ingram. Peterson appeared to stare Payton down during the contest and later said he didn't sign up for only nine snaps. Given Peterson's age, the Saints' crowded backfield, and Payton's tendency to throw the ball frequently, it's going to be difficult for Peterson to get in a rhythm running the football.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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by Jack Browne on (#32D1B)
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater is expecting to be healthy enough to return at midseason following the devastating knee injury sustained just before the 2016 season, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported.The Vikings have consistently refused to put a timeline on Bridgewater's recovery, though head coach Mike Zimmer acknowledged in late August that a return this season was "a possibility."Bridgewater remains on the physically unable to perform list after dislocating his knee and tearing his ACL. Under the PUP rules, Bridgewater will have a five-week window to practice after sitting out the first six games.If the quarterback can return to practice in that window, the Vikings would then have three weeks to add him to the 53-man roster or shut him down for the year.Sam Bradford has started in Bridgewater's absence, and he lit up the New Orleans Saints in the season opener in what was arguably the best performance of his career.However, Bradford is dealing with a knee issue and is questionable for Week 2, though he's reportedly told people he'll start.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32CZ2)
The NFL's three Floridian teams will be wearing "One Florida" decals on their helmets Sunday.Hurricane Irma tore through the state last weekend, leaving damage and devastation through the southeastern state and the Caribbean.
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on (#32CZ4)
The Dez Bryant-Josh Norman rivalry continues to heat up in a new follow-up ad for the Galaxy Note 8 smartphone.Related - Watch: Josh Norman takes jabs at Dez Bryant in smartphone adThe Dallas Cowboys' star receiver "refuses" to take a shot at the Washington Redskins cornerback when asked by a reporter, but almost instantly tweets a picture of Norman as a "buck-toothed snail."It's all fun and games now, but the two will face off in what's sure to be a fiery battle in Week 8 on Oct. 29.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32CWZ)
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has impeded the progress of NFL commissioner Roger Goodell's contract negotiations, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported Sunday on "ESPN Countdown""If not for Jerry, this deal would be done," Schefter said.It was reported on Aug. 21 that Goodell was nearing a five-year extension through 2024. His current contract is set to end in 2019.However, since then, the commissioner and Jones have been at odds due to the NFL banning Ezekiel Elliott for six games for domestic violence allegations. The running back had the suspension temporarily lifted by a federal judge who granted a request for an injunction.Schefter and Chris Mortensen added that some owners believe that Goodell will re-sign as commissioner. With Jones acting as the unofficial seventh member of league's six-man competition committee, the Cowboys owner believes Goodell must take a "big reduction" in salary.However, one source said "there's no way" the Goodell extension happens soon. It was expected to be in place before the regular season."Jerry's not saying, 'Don't hire Roger.' He's saying, 'I hate this (proposed) deal, redo it,'" said one source.Other league sources view the situation as far more volatile, though, telling Schefter that the deteriorating relationship between Goodell and Jones could threaten the commissioner's long-term future.If Goodell signs a preferable deal for the owners, it's expected to contain incentives to help him reach his previous salary levels. He has earned north of $35 million annually since an extension in 2012.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32CV5)
Bruce Arians is looking forward to his head-to-head matchup with Chuck Pagano.It will be the second meeting between the two head coaches since Arians left the Indianapolis Colts after serving as Pagano's offensive coordinator. In their previous matchup in 2013, Arians kept his foot on the gas as his Arizona Cardinals throttled the Colts 40-11.He won't be taking it easy on his "brother" this week, either."It's just like two brothers going in the backyard. One of us has got to kick the other one's ass," Arians said, according to Mike Jurecki of ArizonaSports.com.Both clubs will be missing vital parts, as the Colts will be without franchise quarterback Andrew Luck for a second week while the Cardinals lost star running back David Johnson to a wrist injury in Week 1.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32CV7)
Houston Texans left tackle Duane Brown is prepared to hold out for at least another month, and won't report to the team until after its Week 7 bye at the earliest, sources told CBSSports.com's Jason La Canfora.Brown stayed away for the entire offseason and has missed Houston's first two games, with the offensive line struggling mightily in his absence.The 32-year-old has two years left on his current contract - $9.4 million this season and $9.75 million in 2018 - and the Texans haven't shown much willingness to rework the deal.However, if Houston's pass-protection issues continue, it will be harder to justify not paying its best offensive lineman.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32CRX)
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Bradford will reportedly be a game-time decision for Sunday's matchup with the Pittsburgh Steelers, but he has told people that he expects to play, according to Aditi Kinkhabwala of NFL Network.Bradford was a limited participant in practice all week due to a knee injury he picked up in the team's season opener against the New Orleans Saints and his status is expected to be decided after a pregame workout.It's unclear when Bradford first picked up the ailment in a game in which he went 27-for-32 for 346 yards and three touchdowns.Veteran Case Keenum is Bradford's backup and the Vikings signed Kyle Sloter to the roster on Saturday as further insurance at the position.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32CQB)
theScore's Justin Boone is coming off his fourth top-10 finish in FantasyPros' Most Accurate Expert Competition. Follow the links below to see his updated rankings for Week 2.Standard
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on (#32CQC)
The New Orleans Saints spent the early part of the week testing the trade market for former first-round safety Kenny Vaccaro, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.Vaccaro has been a solid piece for the Saints, but is in a contract year after having his fifth-year option exercised.Offseason negotiations between the starting safety and the Saints didn't go well, which could be the driving force behind the trade push, added Rapoport.The Saints have Vonn Bell behind Vaccaro to slide into the lineup if a move occurs.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32CQD)
New England Patriots linebacker Dont'a Hightower visited with noted orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews over the last week to get a second opinion on his knee injury, ESPN's Mike Reiss reports.Hightower has been ruled out of Week 2 after sustaining the injury in the season opener.Andrews has specialized in knee reconstruction in the past, and is a name no fan wants to hear.Hightower is one of the Patriots' best defensive players and the team would struggle to replace him if he misses significant time.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32CNP)
Washington Redskins safety Su'a Cravens is expected to return to the team this week after he reportedly contemplated retirement after just one season, Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network reports.Cravens, a 2016 second-round draft pick, played in 11 games last season, and reportedly told members of the organization just days before the start of the 2017 campaign that he was considering retirement before speaking with team management.The safety suffered a concussion in Week 4 of last season that he said damaged his eyesight.The Redskins placed the safety on their exempt list on Sept. 3, allowing Cravens some time away from the team to contemplate his future.Cravens' passion for football remains, Rapoport reports, but there has been no indication that he is ready to return to the football field.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32BZ8)
Week 1 produced a mixture of breakout performers, former stars returning to glory, and monster stat lines from players who took advantage of favorable matchups.Not all of them will be able to do it again in Week 2. Here's a look at five players who won't replicate their opening-day success.Related: 7 stars ready to explode after lackluster season debutsCorey Davis, Titans (at Jaguars)Week 1 stats: 6 receptions, 69 yards receivingThe first wide receiver selected in the 2017 draft, Davis made a couple of spectacular catches as the Titans dropped the home opener to the Oakland Raiders. His 10 targets in his first NFL game tied for eighth on the week, as he drew more looks than veterans Rishard Matthews and Eric Decker.Now, though, he'll now be up against one of the league's top cornerbacks in either Jalen Ramsey or A.J. Bouye, and a Jaguars defense that held the Houston Texans to just 110 yards passing in Week 1. For the Titans to find success through the air this week, they'll need to spread the ball around their receiving corps.LeSean McCoy, Bills (at Panthers)Week 1 stats: 110 yards rushing, 49 yards receivingEven with an extremely favorable matchup against the punchless New York Jets, McCoy recorded 27 touches, totaling 169 yards, as the Bills made it clear they plan on having him carry their offense this season.They were also able to control the pace in Week 1, leading for nearly the entire game. Buffalo faces a much better offense in Week 2 and will likely need quarterback Tyrod Taylor to throw more than his 28 attempts from a week ago.Carson Wentz, Eagles (at Chiefs)Week 1 stats: 307 yards passing, 2 TDs, 6 yards rushingWentz threw for the third-highest yardage total of his career in Week 1 while tossing twice as many touchdowns as interceptions, aided by a breakout game from wide receiver Nelson Agholor.The Chiefs, however, held the New England Patriots to 247 yards passing in their season opener, and they'll also have the benefit of the raucous Arrowhead Stadium crowd. Wentz averaged just 5.73 yards per passing attempt on the road last season, with two more interceptions than touchdowns thrown.Randall Cobb, Packers (at Falcons)Week 1 stats: 9 receptions, 85 yards receivingWeek 1 was Cobb's highest yardage total since Oct. 9, 2016 against the New York Giants. He was targeted more than 12 times just once last season.Both Jordy Nelson and Davante Adams were targeted fewer times than Cobb, a game plan the Packers are highly unlikely to stick to. Cobb did catch 6-of-9 targets for 82 yards in the NFC Championship Game against the Falcons last season, but Atlanta has cornerback Desmond Trufant healthy to start this year, providing the secondary depth to properly cover the Packers' No. 3 receiver this time around.Golden Tate, Lions (at Giants)Week 1 stats: 10 receptions, 107 yards receiving, 7 yards rushingTate led the Lions in targets, receptions, and yards receiving in Week 1, but it was rookie Kenny Golladay and Marvin Jones Jr. who caught quarterback Matthew Stafford's three touchdown passes.Golladay played a much larger role than expected in the season opener, and he proved himself to his quarterback and coaches, which will only lead to more playing time. Tate and his sure hands are reliable, but Golladay has a significantly higher ceiling and can make the big plays required to help keep the Lions in any game.(Photos courtesy: Action Images)Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32BWR)
The Minnesota Vikings are considering quarterback Sam Bradford a game-time decision for Sunday's matchup with the Pittsburgh Steelers, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter.The Vikings are reportedly expected to decide after his pregame workout.Bradford has been dealing with a knee injury all week and is officially listed as questionable. He did make the trip to Pittsburgh with the team.The Vikings promoted quarterback Kyle Sloter from the practice squad to the active roster earlier Saturday as an insurance policy should Bradford be ruled out. Backup quarterback Case Keenum would draw the start with no Bradford. It would be Keenum's first game action with the Vikings after spending the last two seasons with the Los Angeles and St. Louis Rams.It's an inopportune time for Bradford to miss a game after he completed 27-of-32 passes for 346 yards and three touchdowns against the New Orleans Saints in Week 1.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32BHB)
Chicago Bears guard Kyle Long did not travel with the team to Tampa Bay for Sunday's game and he has officially been ruled out against the Buccaneers.Long was a limited participant in practices all week as he continues to battle an ankle injury.Guard Tom Compton replaced him as the starter at left guard in Week 1 against the Atlanta Falcons.Long was selected to the Pro Bowl in each of his first three seasons in the NFL, but he was limited to eight starts last season.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32B7G)
Football is the ultimate team sport, but it can take just one individual matchup swinging one way or another to decide a game's outcome.Week 2 is stocked with standout positional battles. Here are five of the best you should keep your eye on Sunday:Marcus Mariota vs. Jaguars' defensive lineThe Jacksonville Jaguars' defensive line was one of the shocks of Week 1. They manhandled the Houston Texans' offensive line to the tune of 10 sacks, including four from free-agent signing Calais Campbell.The performance was undoubtedly impressive, but the Texans' line is bad, and Jacksonville faces a much stiffer test against Marcus Mariota and his standout group of protectors. Deshaun Watson and especially Tom Savage aren't in Mariota's stratosphere from an athletic standpoint. It's going to be a challenge for Campbell, Dante Fowler, Malik Jackson, and Co. to keep him from using his legs to negate the pass rush, and he's just as deadly in the pocket.The Jaguars will need an equally dominant performance from their defensive line if they're to start 2-0 for the first time since 2006.Xavier Rhodes vs. Antonio Brown/Martavis BryantRhodes continues to be one of the more overlooked defenders in the league, but he has blossomed into a premier press-man corner. His ability to limit Brown or Bryant will likely decide the Minnesota Vikings' game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.Bryant was a major disappointment in his first regular-season action since 2015, finishing with just two catches for 14 yards against a vulnerable Cleveland Browns pass defense. Still, due to Bryant's size, he may be the more logical candidate for Rhodes to follow, allowing the rest of the Vikings' secondary to focus on Brown.However, that could be asking for trouble after Brown lit up the Browns for 182 yards on 11 catches. Expect to see Rhodes used against both receivers in a mouth-watering matchup.Brandin Cooks vs. Saints' secondaryThe New England Patriots versus the New Orleans Saints is the standout game of the early slate, and all eyes will be on Cooks as he makes his return to face his old team following a trade this offseason.The speedster had a decent start to his Patriots career, catching three passes for 88 yards, but he'll likely be salivating at the chance to take advantage of the Saints' secondary, which was just demolished by Sam Bradford and Stefon Diggs.First-rounder Marshon Lattimore could be given the unenviable task of lining up against Cooks, though it's more than likely New Orleans gives him safety help. Still, with Rob Gronkowski threatening down the seam, the Saints won't be able to double Cooks too often, and he could make New Orleans live to regret shipping him to New England.Luke Kuechly/Thomas Davis vs. LeSean McCoyMcCoy is the Buffalo Bills' offense at this point, and he looked more than capable of handling the workload in a standout 159-yard performance in Week 1.However, not only is McCoy facing a defense that includes the best pair of inside linebackers in the league in Kuechly and Davis, he's also dealing with a groin injury. He's expected to play, but for a running back that relies so much on his burst, it could be a significant factor.Kuechly is arguably the best coverage linebacker in the league, and is more than capable of limiting McCoy if forced to take him one-on-one. The Carolina Panthers won't want that to happen too often though, despite Kuechly's talents, and should have their entire defense focused on making the Bills go to other options than McCoy.Von Miller vs. Cowboys' offensive lineIn a battle of what may be the best offensive line in the league versus arguably the best pure pass-rusher, expect fireworks.The Broncos no longer have DeMarcus Ware, and Shane Ray is on injured reserve, so Dallas will be able to focus almost entirely on stopping Miller - though Shaquil Barrett shouldn't be underestimated.New right tackle La'el Collins will be tasked with going one-on-one with Miller, but the Cowboys should give him help on nearly every play, and the rest of the line should be prepared if the Broncos try to rush the linebacker from other spots.Collins has the athleticism to handle the pass-rusher, but his inexperience and aggressiveness could be his downfall, especially considering Miller's otherworldly speed and agility.(Photos courtesy: Action Images)Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32B5R)
Newsflash: You, and you alone care about your fantasy team.Your friends don't care. Your family doesn't care. And Odell Beckham Jr. - whose status for Week 2 is uncertain due to an ankle issue - definitely doesn't care if his absence hurts your fantasy chances:
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on (#32B5S)
For Lawrence Taylor, arguably the greatest defensive player in NFL history, all it took was a look at the face of the opposing offensive lineman to know who would be attempting - and likely failing - to block him.According to New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, who was Taylor's defensive coordinator with the New York Giants, the pass-rusher could work it out due to the fear he could see in an opponent's eyes."A player like Lawrence was such a special athlete, but a really special player because of his awareness and instinctiveness," Belichick said in May on Paul Rabil's podcast, according to Pro Football Talk's Michael David Smith."Taylor had the ability, when he stood on the end of the line of scrimmage, which is where he played as an outside linebacker/defensive end, he could just tell, it didn't matter who the person was, or what the play was, or anything else, he could just tell by the look of the opponent on the other side of the line of scrimmage who was going to block him, and that was by how scared they were."He continued: "When that tackle was looking at him like, 'If I'm one split-second late out of my stance, if I am a few inches off on my angle or step, this guy's going to be behind me.' They'd have that scared-to-death look. And Taylor could just tell by looking at the guy whether the guy was blocking him or not."And it wasn't just offensive linemen who couldn't hide their dread at facing Taylor, whom Belichick called "the best defensive player I've ever coached, by a good margin.""The same thing with the quarterback," Belichick said. "Taylor would anticipate it was a run because the quarterback didn't care about him, it was somebody else's problem. But if it was a pass play, and the quarterback looked at Taylor like, 'Is he rushing? Is he not rushing? Do I have him picked up?'"Before the ball was snapped, he could just tell by the terror he felt from that individual, look in the guy's eye or how nervous he was from play to play, you know run/pass, which guy's blocking me, that kind of thing. He would often times come off and tell me that, after the first or second series, he said, 'I can read this on every play. It's easy.' Because the tackle, if he had him in pass protection, was scared to death."It's hard to blame any offensive player for being petrified by the uniquely dominant Taylor, who finished his career with 10 first-team All-Pro nods, three Defensive Player of the Year awards, and 132.5 sacks.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32B0Z)
The Bengals made their desperation to turn around a historically bad offense crystal clear with the decision Friday to fire offensive coordinator Ken Zampese after just two games, albeit two games in which Cincinnati failed to score a single touchdown.The move wasn't surprising, and it was done with one thought in mind: buy time before more drastic measures must be taken, namely benching Andy Dalton in favor of AJ McCarron.There's more than enough blame to go around in Cincinnati, and while Dalton looked like he'd taken a permanent leap forward in 2015, it appears like it was a mirage based on the first two weeks of 2017.Dalton was downright abysmal against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 1, throwing four interceptions. While he was "better" Thursday against the Houston Texans, it's because there's only one way to go after hitting rock bottom. He was wildly inaccurate, unable to compensate even slightly for the pressure allowed by his porous offensive line, and somehow forgot A.J. Green existed in the second half.The change from Zampese to quarterbacks coach Bill Lazor should be viewed as a Hail Mary to save Dalton, who, despite Marvin Lewis proclaiming isn't in danger of losing his job, definitely is.Related: Bengals' front-office decisions have jeopardized their present, futureWhile the Bengals front office's unfathomable decision to let their top two offensive linemen - guard Kevin Zeitler and left tackle Andrew Whitworth - walk in free agency can't be ignored, they have surrounded Dalton with an enviable array of weapons.Green needs no introduction. Tyler Eifert and Brandon LaFell are solid options. Joe Mixon hasn't hit the ground running like the other rookie running backs, but it's due to his lack of touches and the stagnant playcalling rather than his talent, and those two issues should improve under Lazor. Gio Bernard and Jeremy Hill have ideal, starkly different skill sets to complement Mixon when he inevitably becomes the featured back. First-rounder John Ross looks like he needs time to adjust to the NFL level, but it's astounding the Bengals didn't make better use of maybe the league's fastest player against the Texans, and infuriating they went away from him after an early fumble (hey, Marvin, did you not watch Kareem Hunt?!).It's inexcusable for an offense with these options to score just nine points in eight quarters. And while Zampese's uninspired game plans are at fault, the Bengals are this bad because of Dalton's limitations.He's never been good at navigating a cluttered pocket, and he's been even worse at reading coverages in those situations. Dalton needs time to scan the field from a comfortable spot in order to make good decisions, and that simply won't happen this season with the state of the offense line.(Photo courtesy: Getty Images)While probably not an upgrade, the Bengals won't have a choice but to turn to McCarron if they lose to the Green Bay Packers in Week 3, which, if we're being honest, is as close to a lock as you can get in the NFL. The fan backlash will simply be too much to for the Bengals not to make a change under center.McCarron looked serviceable in 2015 when Dalton was injured, and the team has been reluctant to trade him, so they presumably have confidence in his abilities (or maybe a lack of faith in Dalton's).McCarron hasn't shown any significant skills, but at this point, it's largely irrelevant. We know Dalton can't play well with this offensive line, so a roll of the dice on McCarron is the only play.More importantly, McCarron will be a free agent in 2018, while Dalton's contract gives the Bengals an out after the season. The team would save around $14 million in cap space by cutting Dalton, according to spotrac.com, though the money saved would need to go to re-signing McCarron, who likely will demand - and get - Mike Glennon-type money.Cincinnati needs to see if McCarron is capable of bridging the gap to the next era, or, even better, can be a long-term option.However, after years of decent-to-good play, Dalton deserves one last shot following the change at offensive coordinator. But his leash should be short, very short.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32AXQ)
The Baltimore Ravens promoted Alex Collins from the practice squad Saturday and waived Jeremy Langford, the team announced, as they attempt to solve their running back issues following a long-term injury to Danny Woodhead.Langford was signed to the active roster just two days ago as a replacement for the injured reserve-bound Woodhead.Terrance West and Javorius Allen will still be the Ravens' top two backs, but neither are convincing options, so Collins has a shot at securing a substantial role.Collins appeared in 11 games for the Seattle Seahawks in 2016, racking up 125 yards and one touchdown on 31 attempts - though he did fumble twice, losing one.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32AR6)
New York Giants' star wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. has been listed as questionable for Monday's game against the Detroit Lions as he recovers from an ankle injury.Beckham practiced for the first time in a month during the week, albeit on a limited basis.While the expectation is Beckham will make his season debut, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the questionable tag gives little clarity to his status.The Giants struggled mightily without their franchise player in Week 1, scoring just three points and 233 yards of offense.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32AP7)
Are you a fan of offensive fireworks, and looking to get the bland taste from Week 1 out of your mouth? Well, two future Hall of Famers have got you covered.Tom Brady and Drew Brees are set to face off for just the third (!) time in their careers, having split their previous two matchups. And though both insist the end of the line isn't close, it could be their last battle, barring an unforeseen Super Bowl run for the New Orleans Saints.And what a final outing it could be Sunday.Both the New England Patriots and Saints are coming off embarrassing Week 1 losses and will be highly motivated to bounce back. Brady and Brees are arguably the two most competitive players in the league, so expect both offenses to come out hot, looking to re-establish the dominance that's been the norm for the past decade.Neither unit should encounter much resistance, either.Few doubt Bill Belichick's defensive genius, or defensive coordinator Matt Patricia's talents, but there are limits to their powers.New England's lack of playmakers and athleticism on defense was on full display in the shock loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. The linebackers had no answer for Kareem Hunt, the inconsistent pass rush allowed Alex Smith, of all people, to torch the secondary - the supposed strength of the unit - time and time again with deep shots, and Tyreek Hill ran wild - a significant concern given Belichick's love of taking away an opposing offense's main threat.Not only do they now face the most prolific passer in NFL history, they'll have to do so with without linebacker Dont'a Hightower, one of the few Pro Bowl-level players they have.Outside of defensive end Trey Flowers, who on the Patriots' front seven can make game-changing plays? It's a question that might dominate New England's season.Yes, the Saints' offense looked lethargic in the loss to the Minnesota Vikings, as head coach Sean Payton attempts to navigate the crowded backfield, a frustrated Adrian Peterson, and an injury-hit offensive line. But the Saints will play in the comfort of the Superdome, and will undoubtedly put the ball in Brees' hands in order to avoid the dreaded 0-2 start.New England's secondary likely won't make the same mental errors as they did against the Chiefs, but after that performance, it's hard to believe Brees won't pick them apart, likely peppering Michael Thomas with targets after a quiet Week 1.Luckily for the Patriots, the Saints' defense is still, well, the Saints' defense.If you thought Sam Bradford took advantage of New Orleans' young secondary during his three-touchdown performance, just wait until an angry Brady gets his hands on them.The Patriots have been hit hard by injuries at receiver. Julian Edelman is out for the season, Malcolm Mitchell is on injured reserve, and Danny Amendola will miss Week 2 with a knee injury and a concussion. However, while most teams would crumble, the Patriots are a different beast.The Saints still have to deal with Rob Gronkowski, Chris Hogan, a nightmarish four-headed backfield, and, oh yeah, some guy called Brandin Cooks who might be motivated to drop a few scores on the Saints.New Orleans' group of talented corners, including first-rounder Marshon Lattimore, will be good in the future, but they're about to run full speed into a buzzsaw like they've never seen before.Neither team started the season how they would have liked, and while the loser will exit with serious questions to answer, NFL fans are in for a feast of points.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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by Mitch Sanderson on (#32AEK)
Not everyone started the NFL season the way they wanted, but things can change quickly in the world of professional football.Here are seven NFL stars who stumbled out of the gate, but can recover in Week 2:Tom Brady vs. SaintsWeek 1 Stats (vs. Chiefs): 16-of-36 passing, 267 yards, 0 TDs, 0 INTs, 44.4 completion %Tommy Terrific finished the first week of the season with the worst completion percentage in the league after a rare dismal outing. Lucky for him, the Saints' struggling secondary is next on the schedule.New Orleans' pass defense was atrocious Monday night, making Sam Bradford look like one of the league's elite passers. With Brandin Cooks hungry to show his former team it could have used him more, Brady will be looking to attack downfield against the Saints in order to fend off Drew Brees from his own team's susceptible defense.Khalil Mack vs. JetsWeek 1 Stats (vs. Titans): 3 tackles, 1 pass deflection, 0 sacksTruth be told, Mack's play last Sunday against the Titans was not reflected in his stat line. The reigning Defensive Player of the Year was bombarded with double and triple teams at the line of scrimmage, yet still managed to force Marcus Mariota to throw the ball away on a fairly regular basis.In Week 2, Mack will be the focus yet again, but the Jets may simply not have an answer for his talents. The Raiders' offense is expected to jump out to a lead, pressuring the Jets to call plenty of passes in an effort to play catch up. Whoever the Jets put out at quarterback should be fearing for his safety with Mack able to tee off, rushing the passer play after play.Adrian Peterson vs. PatriotsWeek 1 Stats (vs. Vikings): 6 carries, 18 yards, 0 TDsThe Saints struggled to find a rhythm offensively in Week 1, trying a little too hard to get all three running backs enough touches. The result saw none of the runners breaking out and Peterson complaining about his role in a new offense.The Patriots gave up 185 rushing yards in Week 1, the second most in the league. With Dont'a Hightower injured this week and the Saints needing to find a run-pass balance without their starting offensive tackles, Peterson is primed for a bounce-back performance.Carson Palmer vs. ColtsWeek 1 Stats (vs. Lions): 27-of-48 passing, 268 yards, 1 TD, 3 INTs, 56.3 completion %In Week 1, Palmer picked up where he left off last season, forcing the ball downfield and into the arms of the opposition. Without David Johnson in the backfield, however, Palmer will be compelled to take better care of the ball as he faces a lowly Colts defense.Jared Goff looked to rebound from his flat rookie season by torching the Colts' defense a week ago and, even without Johnson, the Cardinals should have more firepower offensively than the Rams.Jimmy Graham vs. 49ersWeek 1 Stats (vs. Packers): 3 catches, 8 yards, 0 TDsThe entire Seahawks' offense was a mess against the Packers primarily due to the offensive line not being able to block anyone. Graham's production suffered greatly, but don't be surprised if the Seahawks call his number a lot against the Niners.Graham notched 10 catches for 164 yards and one touchdown between two games against San Francisco last season, burning the defense for 40-yard receptions in both contests.Ezekiel Ansah vs. GiantsWeek 1 Stats (vs. Cardinals): 1 tackle, 0 sacksThe Lions lost several pass-rushing options before the season started and did not get the step-up performance in Week 1 they had hoped for out of Ansah, who is in the final year of his contract.Facing the Giants' feeble offensive line, Ansah has as easy a task as he will face on Monday night. If he can't muster up some noticeable pressure on Eli Manning this week, the Lions' front office will start to question if he's worth giving a contract extension.Donte Moncrief vs. CardinalsWeek 1 Stats (vs. Rams): 1 catch, 50 yards, 0 TDsUntil Jacoby Brissett came into the game last Sunday, Moncrief was held without a reception in Los Angeles, but once the former Patriots quarterback took the field, he went right to the veteran receiver on a deep pass.As T.Y. Hilton will be occupied with Patrick Peterson in Brissett's first start with the Colts, Moncrief should have a favorable matchup to exploit. The playbook will be simplified for Brissett, but he won't be afraid to sling it deep whenever the opportunity comes up.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#329M4)
After one top-notch performance, the Jacksonville Jaguars have quickly filled themselves with confidence.Holding the Houston Texans to seven points and just 164 yards passing in Week 1, Jaguars safety Tashaun Gipson believes that the unit headlined by himself, Jalen Ramsey, and A.J. Bouye is the league's top secondary."If you personally ask me, and I don’t think that that’s an unrealistic thing for me to sit here and say that I feel like we are the best secondary in the National Football League," Gipson told SiriusXM NFL radio. "I still say that and I will stand by it. Until somebody shows me otherwise, that’s just truly how I feel."We're competitors, but at the end of the day, we know that we've got to go out there and back it up. And I think that, judging off of last Sunday and moving forward, I feel like we have no problem doing so."Gipson says this defense is the tightest group he has played with in his career, and expects it to top the unit he was a part of with the Cleveland Browns, which sported three Pro Bowlers."I think Jalen is going to come into his own this year and he’s going to be recognized as one of the best corners in the league," said Gipson of his teammate. "I think A.J., the way he took off last year and when I first saw him, I said, 'This dude is so underrated, I don't know how he doesn't get more attention.' And that goes for (safety) Barry Church as well."Gipson hopes to challenge the league's other top secondaries, including the Seattle Seahawks, Denver Broncos, and New York Giants.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#329C9)
Cincinnati Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis faced a "near mutiny" following Thursday's loss to the Houston Texans, prompting him to fire offensive coordinator Ken Zampese, a source told Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk.The Bengals fired Zampese on Friday, promoting quarterbacks coach Bill Lazor to offensive coordinator.Cincinnati scored nine points during its first two games, one of the most anemic starts to a campaign in recent memory.A.J. Green was among the Bengals players who expressed their disappointment in the team's game plan Thursday."We have to find a way to get our playmakers the ball. Whatever that is, play calling, whatever it is we’ve got to do that," Green told WKRC-TV's Richard Skinner postgame.The Bengals square off against the Green Bay Packers in Week 3, and Lewis almost certainly will be forced to make adjustments.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#329AG)
Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt ended his Hurricane Harvey relief fund, accumulating over $37 million to go toward those affected by the storm, ESPN's Darren Rovell reports.Watt set an original goal of $200,000 on Aug. 26 which was quickly surpassed.Several players and teams contributed to relief funds toward Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma, but no one's made a bigger financial impact than Watt.Watt wrote a message on behalf of his foundation Wednesday, thanking all who have contributed to the fund:
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on (#3297V)
New York Jets quarterback Bryce Petty has no interest in diplomacy as he vies for the team's starting role.Josh McCown is currently entrenched as the team's first-string quarterback, but Petty is making no secret of trying to unseat the incumbent starter."I never said, 'I'm the No. 2,'" Petty told ESPN's Lenn Robbins. "I say, 'I'm the No. 1.'"You've got to prepare just like the starter. And that’s been the whole key to the whole competition the whole time. You never want second place. You understand it, but at the same time you have to go out there and every time try to be better than you were yesterday. So that’s been my mindset, really, since I came in."Petty submitted a strong showing during the preseason, leading some to believe that he could potentially take over for McCown.Despite being on the bench, Petty said he's focusing on being ready if he gets called up as the starter."I haven't counted reps and I know, 'Yeah, you can,' but you really don’t," Petty said. "Between scout team and everything else, you get enough reps, so the tough part is, or the professionalism is, you’ve got to know that game plan, just like Josh does or whoever the 1 is, and be ready when your time is called."That's what you've got to do on your own time, and that’s part of the professionalism part of it. Reps are not. You’ve got to be ready to go."The Jets are in action Sunday against the Oakland Raiders.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32923)
San Francisco 49ers first-round pick Reuben Foster will not play against the Seattle Seahawks due to an ankle injury, according to Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee, citing the team injury report.X-rays for the linebacker's ankle came back negative earlier this week, though he was diagnosed with a high ankle sprain after playing just 12 snaps in the 49ers' season opener.Foster, the 31st overall pick in this year's draft, was expected to be a bright spot for the 49ers' defense this season, quickly racking up three tackles in his short debut. Ray-Ray Armstrong will likely take Foster’s spot in the starting defense against Seattle.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#32925)
The NFLPA penned an open letter to the media, denouncing the NFL for trying to reinstate Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott's suspension.Elliott's suspension was placed on hold by a U.S. District Court Judge last Friday, granting him a temporary restraining order and injunction.The NFL filed a motion for a stay on the injunction that blocked Elliott's suspension, much to the NFLPA's dismay.Here is the full letter the NFLPA authored Friday, per Clarence Hill of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram:
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on (#32926)
An awful lot is made of revenge games in the NFL, but nine out of 10 times, it has to do with a player. However, coaches need revenge too.Week 1 of the 2017 NFL season lacked the explosive rivalries and drama that generally follows North America's most popular pro sports league. But, Week 2 has tension built right into the schedule with four games featuring coaches taking on their former teams.Redskins at RamsCoaches: Jay Gruden vs. Sean McVayThe youngest head coach in NFL history got just one regular-season warmup outing before facing his former mentor. McVay served under Gruden as offensive coordinator in Washington the previous three seasons and as an assistant with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2008.Without DeSean Jackson or Pierre Garcon, the Redskins' offense has already undergone some major changes in McVay's absence, but the basic philosophies and the starting quarterback remain in place.The chess match between Gruden trying to guess what McVay is thinking while the young coach does the same is sure to be full of surprising play calls and intense gamesmanship.Bills at PanthersCoaches: Sean McDermott vs. Ron RiveraMcDermott can't necessarily credit Rivera with kick-starting his NFL coaching career as the 43-year-old had spent 12 season with the Philadelphia Eagles before becoming the Panthers' defensive coordinator in 2011.The Bills are still early in their rebuilding process under McDermott and general manager Brandon Beane so their chances against a re-surging Carolina team aren't great, but they do exist. If McDermott can exploit whatever holes he felt the Panther defense had, a 2-0 start would be the perfect way to conquer a moral victory in a season where winning streaks aren't likely.Cardinals at ColtsCoaches: Bruce Arians vs. Chuck PaganoThis is not the first time these two former co-head coaches faced off against one another after Arians won Coach of the Year filling in for a cancer-stricken Pagano in 2012. Arians' Cardinals stomped all over the Colts in 2013 with a 40-11 win, but now both teams and coaches are in much less comfortable predicaments.While it is early in the season, both coaches are in danger of losing their jobs if they continue on losing trends set in Week 1. For the Cardinals, a loss to the banged-up Colts would be devastating, but not out of the question without star runner David Johnson. Arians' experience with Andrew Luck won't do much good with the star quarterback injured, but both coaches should know enough about one another to keep the other guessing as they look to avoid 0-2.Eagles at ChiefsCoaches: Doug Pederson vs. Andy ReidPederson was reportedly in danger of being fired before he left the Chiefs to become the Eagles' head coach in 2016, but really, that's just a piece of the drama in this matchup. For just the second time since he was fired by the Eagles - the team he spent 14 seasons leading - Reid will face his former club on Sunday.It's a shame this game is not in Philadelphia so Reid could get to hear from his former fans in the City of Brotherly Love; a rocking Arrowhead Stadium will have to do. Kansas City fans will be as loud as ever with their coming off a huge win in New England, which should make Pederson and the Eagles feel somewhat at home.Reid appeared to change up his game plan in Week 1, chucking the ball deep with Alex Smith and actually effectively managing the clock while Pederson and the Eagles started the season hot for a second straight year. After serving as Kansas City's offensive coordinator from 2013-15, it will be interesting to see how much Pederson has taken from Reid's offense, while that Chiefs system has apparently evolved.(Photos courtesy: Action Images)Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#328ZC)
Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce is being docked $12,154 for some poor judgement in the heat of the battle last Thursday, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.In the third quarter of the Chiefs' opener against the New England Patriots, Kelce pushed linebacker Kyle Van Noy off of him following a third-quarter play by forcing the ball into his crotch area.The play earned a 15-yard penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct at the time and has now put a dent in Kelce's wallet.Kelce was also fined $11,025 in 2014 and $24,309 in 2016 for incidents deemed to be unsportsmanlike conduct.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#328WG)
The New England Patriots will have to rebound from their shock Week 1 loss without a key contributor on each side of the ball, as linebacker Dont'a Hightower and wide receiver Danny Amendola have been ruled out of Sunday's game against the New Orleans Saints.Both players are dealing with knee injuries, and Amendola also has a concussion.Hightower is one of the Patriots' most important defenders, both as the leader of the front seven and due to his ability to hold up in run support and in pass coverage. New England should cycle between veteran David Harris and Elandon Roberts to replace Hightower's snaps.Meanwhile, the loss of Amendola will stretch an already injury-hit receiving corps. Brandin Cooks and Chris Hogan will likely start, with Phillip Dorsett - who was acquired via trade two weeks ago - set for an expanded role.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#328SY)
Los Angeles Chargers cornerback Jason Verrett won't play Sunday against the Miami Dolphins due to a knee injury, according to Eric D. Williams of ESPN.Verrett played nearly all the defensive snaps in Week 1 following an offseason spent rehabbing from a torn ACL suffered in October 2016.It's unclear if the Pro Bowler suffered a new injury or a setback in his recovery.Regardless, the Chargers will now have to defend the dangerous wide receiver pair of Jarvis Landry and DeVante Parker with a weakened secondary.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#328SZ)
Oakland Raiders rookie cornerback Gareon Conley is off the injury report and will be in the lineup for Sunday's Week 2 matchup with the New York Jets.The 24th overall pick will make his pro debut after missing the season opener with a shin injury - one he insisted was not shin splints.After his stock rose quickly ahead of the 2017 NFL Draft, the Ohio State product was then accused of rape, causing him to slip to the Raiders near the end of the first round.Conley was cleared of the allegation in late July and was not subject to league discipline.He could have an instant impact in the Raiders' secondary, a unit that allowed 255 yards through the air against the Tennessee Titans in Week 1. For his first career game, Conley may slot into the nickel role.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#328PV)
Arizona Cardinals wide receiver John Brown has been ruled out of Sunday's game against the Indianapolis Colts due to a quadriceps injury, head coach Bruce Arians announced Friday.It's a significant blow to an offense that's already preparing for a lengthy absence for star running back David Johnson.Brown was unable to practice throughout the week after aggravating his injury in Week 1.Jaron Brown and J.J. Nelson should take on expanded roles as the Cardinals attempt to rebound from a poor offensive performance in their 35-23 loss to the Detroit Lions.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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by Arun Srinivasan on (#328PX)
Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald will make his first start since holding out throughout the summer in search of a new contract, head coach Sean McVay revealed Friday, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.Donald, widely considered the NFL's best defensive tackle, returned to the team before its season opener against the Indianapolis Colts, but was rendered inactive by the Rams.The 26-year-old refused to discuss his contract status upon rejoining the Rams. He will earn $1.8 million in base salary this season and holds a $3.2-million cap hit.Donald has earned three consecutive Pro Bowl selections and been named to the All-Pro first team the last two years.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#328PY)
Houston Texans cornerback Kevin Johnson will miss four-to-six weeks with a Grade 2 knee sprain suffered Thursday against the Cincinnati Bengals, reports Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle.Johnson left the game near the end of the third quarter.Fellow corner Johnathan Joseph also exited the game with a shoulder injury, but reportedly escaped major injury.Johnson has yet to play a full campaign since his rookie year in 2015.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#328HD)
The Cincinnati Bengals fired offensive coordinator Ken Zampese after two games without a touchdown.NFL Network's Ian Rapoport was the first to report the story.Zampese will be replaced by Bill Lazor, who served as the Bengals' quarterbacks coach."I am grateful for this opportunity to serve the Bengals organization as offensive coordinator," Lazor said in a statement released by the team. "There is a lot of football ahead of us this season and we are excited to make this a productive year."Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis also released a statement:"Ken Zampese has done a tremendous job for us for my 15 years here, and I have the utmost respect for Ken as a person and as a coach. But I feel it best for the football team to breathe new life into the offense, and that's why I am making the change. Bill Lazor has great experience in the league and as a coordinator, and I feel Bill can progress our offense the way we need. We have a lot of talent on offense, and we need to keep working to take full advantage of the personnel we have."Cincinnati has scored a total of nine points through two games in one of the most futile starts to a season in recent memory.Zampese was promoted to offensive coordinator in 2016. He was the team's quarterbacks coach from 2003-2015, working with Jon Kitna and Carson Palmer prior to developing Andy Dalton.Several Bengals players expressed frustration with the offensive game plan following Thursday's 13-9 loss to the Houston Texans, including standout receiver A.J. Green.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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on (#328HF)
One game into the 2017 season, the Arizona Cardinals are treating the rest of the year with grave seriousness.The Cardinals lost their opening contest 35-23 to the Detroit Lions, with the offense and defense equally culpable.Ahead of their matchup against the Indianapolis Colts, the Cardinals' best players are treating Sunday like an elimination game."I feel like they are all must-wins," wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald said via the team's official website. "It's not a baseball schedule. We only have one a week and 16 of them scheduled.""There is definitely such a thing as a must-win in Week 2. This is one of them," cornerback Patrick Peterson added.The Cardinals are squaring off against a Colts team that looked lost without Andrew Luck, so if they lose again it wouldn't be a surprise if further discord emerges.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.
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