The NFL is back … finally.As the New England Patriots and Kansas City Chiefs kicked off the 2017 season, millions of fans got their first look at NFL action. With Roger Goodell, Tom Brady, Bill Belichick, Alex Smith, Tyreek Hill, and others taking hold of the spotlight, here are some of the best shots:Welcome back, Roger.Commissioner Clown."No worries, I'm used to this."LET'S GO!!!Here to boot the door down.Is this what the NFL looks like?"Why haven't we won the game yet?""Good start, new guy."Threading the needle."I've been waiting eight months to score that touchdown!"Some guys just can't catch a breakSo I get kicked in the head, and I get the penalty?Weren't we supposed to go undefeated?A flipping great result!(Photos courtesy: Action Images)Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The football world at-large received their introduction to New England Patriots running back Mike Gillislee on Thursday night.Gillislee, who previously operated as LeSean McCoy's backup with the Buffalo Bills, punched in two touchdowns during the first half versus the Kansas City Chiefs, finishing the half with nine carries for 42 yards.So how did the Patriots unearth their next potent running back? The Bills placed a fifth-round tender on Gillislee, maintaining their right of first refusal in negotiations.The Patriots offered Gillislee a two-year, $6.4 million offer sheet which the Bills declined to match. Due to the fifth-round tender the Bills placed on Gillislee, the Patriots surrendered a fifth-round pick as compensation for the running back.Through two quarters, the Patriots appear to have found their newest star at a bargain bin price while holding a 17-14 lead.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

It's no secret that New England Patriots fans aren't very fond of NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, and that was on full display Thursday before the club's season opener against the Kansas City Chiefs.The ill-feelings towards Goodell stem from the suspension of Tom Brady to start last season, and with the commissioner appearing at Foxboro Stadium, the popular website Barstool Sports handed out t-shirts and towels of his face adorned with a clown nose.(Photo courtesy: Action Images)Barstool Sports founder David Portnoy told Sports Illustrated that the idea behind the shirt is simple."All Patriot fans despise Goodell," Portnoy said. "It's not like time has healed wounds."

New York Giants receiver Odell Beckham Jr. is believed to have a 50-50 chance of playing Week 1 against the Dallas Cowboys after suffering an ankle injury in the preseason, a source told Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk.Beckham missed his third straight practice this week on Thursday, and has yet to practice since being diagnosed with the injury.If Beckham cannot play, the Giants will likely start Brandon Marshall and Sterling Shepard at receiver with Roger Lewis and Dwayne Harris rotating in as a third pass catcher.Beckham missed four games at the beginning of his rookie year due to injury, but has only ever missed one other game in his career since, being suspended for one contest in 2015.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Buffalo Bills added $2.5 million in incentives to LeSean McCoy's contract, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.The Bills didn't release the structure of the incentives.McCoy, who's under contract through the 2019 season, has been the fulcrum of the Bills' offense since being acquired in a March 2015 trade with the Philadelphia Eagles. The five-time Pro Bowler rushed for 1,267 yards and 13 touchdowns, adding 50 receptions for 356 yards and another score during the 2016 campaign.He's scheduled to earn $6 million in base salary this season, holding a $7.8-million cap hit.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Adrian Peterson earned seven Pro Bowl selections, three rushing titles, and an MVP award during his tenure with the Minnesota Vikings.As such, Peterson, who signed with the New Orleans Saints after being released by his former club, is expecting a hero's greeting during Monday's opener.Peterson inked a two-year, $7-million deal with the Saints in April after the Vikings did not exercise their option on his contract in February,"I think it'll be a warm welcome," Peterson said via NFL.com's Jeremy Bergman. "I don't see why it'd be any other way. Ten years played there. A lot of good memories there and being the face of the franchise for so long, giving them everything I've got. I don't think it took a rocket scientist to see when I was on the field, I was giving max effort with everything I did."Peterson also braced at the suggestion that he's no longer an elite running back, with his track record likely indicating a future Hall of Fame berth."It's just always crazy sitting back and seeing how, just because, you know, I'm 32 now, people say, 'Oh, well, he's losing it because this back or that back lost it around that time,'" Peterson said via The Associated Press. "But you erase the (2015) season when I came back after sitting out for a year and led the league in rushing."Peterson will be splitting carries alongside Mark Ingram and Alvin Kamara as he looks to revitalize his dominant career that's been hindered by injuries, most recently a torn meniscus suffered early in the 2016 campaign.The 32-year-old holds several Vikings records and is arguably the most prolific running back of his generation, so it comes as little surprise that Peterson anticipates a generous reception come Monday night, even though he's playing for the opposition.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Las Vegas Police Union's request that the NFL investigate Michael Bennett following his comments about his detainment has led to a rare moment of unity between the league and players union.Following the union's request to investigate Bennett's "false allegations" that he was improperly treated by police, NFLPA executive director DeMaurice Smith issued a statement thanking commissioner Roger Goodell for standing beside Bennett and claiming that the request for a league investigation is baseless.

The New England Patriots enter Thursday's season opener against the Kansas City Chiefs as prohibitive favorites to repeat as Super Bowl champions, but they are still reeling from a key loss.Julian Edelman suffered a torn ACL during the preseason, ending his year prematurely. Although Edelman will be capably replaced by Chris Hogan, Danny Amendola, and a host of other receiving options, tight end Rob Gronkowski expressed his sorrow regarding his veteran teammate."Julian's not a replaceable player. The way he works, the way he plays the game is second to none," Gronkowski said of Edelman via CBS Sports. "The only thing is players like myself and the offense we have to step up and take on bigger roles. We have to work hard and move forward, but we're going to miss him on the field."Last season Edelman helped the Patriots win their second Super Bowl in three years, recording one of the greatest catches in league history which spurred his team's comeback rally against the Atlanta Falcons.Although the Patriots are well-equipped to deal with his injury, Edelman has carved a fundamental role in the team's passing game and it remains to be seen how the reigning champions will adapt without him.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The scoreboard operators at Gillette Stadium had some fun prior to the NFL season opener between the New England Patriots and Kansas City Chiefs on Thursday, displaying the infamous "28-3" scoreline from last year's Super Bowl against the Atlanta Falcons.

The Cincinnati Bengals signed Vontaze Burfict to a three-year extension Thursday, the team confirmed in a press release.ESPN's Adam Schefter was the first to report the story.Terms of the deal weren't disclosed by the club, but Schefter reported that Burfict's extension is worth $38.6 million.Burfict is serving a three-game suspension to begin the season due to an illegal hit delivered on Kansas City Chiefs fullback Anthony Sherman.The 26-year-old recorded 101 tackles, two sacks, two interceptions, and a forced fumble in 11 games during the 2016 season.Burfict was named to the Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro team in 2013 and has been an integral part of the Bengals' defense since being signed as an undrafted free agent out of Arizona State in 2012.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson became the latest player to come to the defense of teammate Michael Bennett, after the defensive end was detained by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police on Aug. 26.Bennett alleged that he was racially profiled and officers threatened to shoot him in the head.TMZ Sports obtained a video capturing the incident, where Bennett was handcuffed.Wilson was clearly bothered by the incident."When you see a person that you love, a person that's your friend, a person who anybody honestly that's put in a compromising position the way Michael was - it's a matter of life or death, potentially all those situations that you see a lot of things are happening in our country right now," Wilson said to reporters Thursday. "It's heartbreaking when you think about (it)."The quarterback hasn't been outspoken on issues surrounding racial inequality or police brutality in the past, but the video of Bennett being handcuffed clearly affected Wilson and his subsequent decision to speak up."I saw a snippet of the video so to see him on the ground like that," Wilson said. "It's unacceptable based on the situation. Michael is a good guy and he's a guy who is trying to standup for something good, trying to standup for love and really coming together, not hate."Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Covers.com is the biggest and best source for sports betting information, providing unrivaled and original content sports bettors cannot live without.Seven months after the greatest comeback in Super Bowl history, meaningful NFL games return to stadiums and TV sets across the nation tonight. And the team that made that incredible rally is front and center for this 8:30 ET kickoff. Covers checks in on the action for the regular-season opener, with insights from Aaron Kessler, sportsbook supervisor at the Golden Nugget in downtown Las Vegas, and with the lines manager for offshore sportsbook GTBets.eu.

The New England Patriots have reportedly made a roster move just hours before they open the season against the Kansas City Chiefs, as a source told Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network that the club has placed Malcolm Mitchell on injured reserve with a knee injury.Mitchell emerged as a solid target for Tom Brady last season, catching 32 balls for 401 yards and four touchdowns. He missed a significant amount of time in the preseason due to the injury and was listed as questionable on the injury report for the game.With Mitchell being placed on injured reserve, he is out for at least the first eight weeks of the season and will join fellow receiver Julian Edelman, who is out for the year, on the sidelines.According to Mike Reiss of ESPN, Mitchell's knee issues led to the club's decision to acquire Phillip Dorsett from the Indianapolis Colts earlier this week.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Cincinnati Bengals are working on a contract extension with linebacker Vontaze Burfict, a source told ESPN's Josina Anderson.The 26-year-old, who is serving a three-game suspension to begin the season, is coming off of a campaign in which he recorded 101 tackles, two sacks, a forced fumble, and two interceptions.Burfict was named to the Pro Bowl and was a second-team All-Pro in 2013.A new deal hasn't been reached and Burfict is scheduled to earn $3.08 million with a $4.06 million cap hit for the upcoming season.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Tottenham offered a glimpse of its state-of-the-art stadium Thursday, claiming the team's new home in north London will be unlike any other in the world.The most striking feature of the 61,500-seat stadium is without a doubt the "world-first dividing" retractable playing surface which could potentially allow the venue to host both Premier League and NFL games on the same day.

Take a deep breath, pull up a chair, and come close to hear this important message: "There is a meaningful NFL game tonight."After seven long months of the offseason, the 2017 NFL schedule kicks off Thursday night in Foxboro as the defending Super Bowl Champions New England Patriots host the Kansas City Chiefs.Along with the return of football is the return of football betting, so let's take a closer look at the opening matchup of the campaign.Kansas City Chiefs (+9) at New England PatriotsBefore we get all crazy here and call a Chiefs outright win, let's take a quick look at one of the most ridiculous stats in sports.

Warning: Story contains coarse languageThe union for the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department has requested the NFL investigate what it calls "obvious false allegations" by Michael Bennett against two of its officers concerning an Aug. 26 incident.In a letter sent to NFL commissioner Roger Goodell on Thursday and obtained by CBS' Vanessa Murphy, the police union also expressed disapproval of Bennett's anthem protest."While the NFL may condone Bennett's disrespect for our American flag, and everything it symbolizes, we hope the league will not ignore Bennett's false accusations against our police officers," wrote union president Steve Grammas.Related - Goodell: 'Michael Bennett represents the best of the NFL'The union denied Bennett's notion that he was racially profiled by the officers after it sounded like shots were fired near his hotel, pointing to the Seattle Seahawks defensive end's "unusual and suspicious behavior."The union says officers witnessed Bennett hiding behind a slot machine in a casino, which they'd been called to due to reports of an active shooter, before running out of the building and leaping over a 4-foot barrier wall."Our officers did not detain Bennett because he was 'a black man in the wrong place at the wrong time,'" wrote Grammas.Bennett said Wednesday that the officers used excessive force and threatened to "blow (his) fucking head off" before ultimately releasing him.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Randy Moss believes he'll go down as one of the all-time great players in football history, regardless of how long it takes him to obtain a Hall of Fame jacket."First ballot or not, I understand what it is, man," Moss said Thursday, according to Mark Craig of the Minneapolis Star Tribune. "It's a political war, and I was one of those guys who didn't play (politics), nor do I intend to play into politics. So I know what I stood for. I know what the game is. I gave my all to the game, 14 years through the ups and downs, I still gave my commitment to the National Football League. Like it or not."The former wide receiver will be eligible for induction into the Hall of Fame for the first time in 2018. He boasts some of the greatest numbers ever amassed by a wideout, yet the same could be said for Terrell Owens, who was kept out by voters in his first round of eligibility this year.Moss, like Owens, picked up a reputation early in his career as a poor locker-room presence, and wasn't always on the greatest of terms with the media. Though, he seemed to turn around his image toward the end of his career."All I know is I just played the game to the best of my ability," Moss said. "I put my mark, I put my stamp, I put my family's name on football, the National Football League. You can't get any higher."Moss finished his 14-year career ranked second on the NFL's all-time list in receiving touchdowns and third in receiving yards.Jerry Rice, Steve Largent, Paul Warfield, and Raymond Berry are the only wide receivers who've been elected to the Hall on the first ballot.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Cleveland Browns have released safety Calvin Pryor, head coach Hue Jackson announced Thursday.The move comes after Pryor got into a fight with teammate Ricardo Louis before practice, according to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo.Jackson has remained tight-lipped on the issue, labeling it "an internal matter," per Ian Rapoport of NFL.com.Pryor was listed behind safeties Jabrill Peppers and Derrick Kindred on the team's official depth chart. Along with injured defensive end Myles Garrett, he's the second defender to be lost just three days ahead of the Browns' season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Matt Williamson is a former scout for the Cleveland Browns and spent 10 years at ESPN as a scout and co-host of "The Football Today Podcast." Find him on Twitter @WilliamsonNFL.For the entire offseason, we've speculated about which teams will have the best and worst offenses in the NFL. The preseason gave us further indicators, but coaches rarely game plan for their opponents in those games, and stars around the league played even more sparingly than usual this year. But now Week 1 is here, and below are three offenses to watch closely during the opening set of games. That isn't to say these three offenses will put up the most points this week, but they are ones to really keep your eye on. (Go back and check out Week 1 offenses to watch here.)Texans (vs. Jaguars)The obvious big story here: J.J. Watt returns! But there are other reasons to watch the Texans this weekend.Romeo Crennel, an excellent defensive mind, now gives way to his disciple, Mike Vrabel, to lead what could be the NFL's best defense this season. Crennel excelled at lining five Texans defenders over the opponent's five offensive linemen, sometimes in unconventional alignments. Doing so often gave Houston advantageous one-on-one matchups up front, leading to direct penetration or pressure on the quarterback. Getting Watt back should massively increase those advantages.The Jaguars are not very strong up front and Blake Bortles obviously has his issues, but Leonard Fournette is an immense talent and Jacksonville does have weapons in the passing game.With an ailing offense of their own, it will be intriguing to see if the Texans can control their game with their outstanding defensive front for a divisional win. It should be Houston's recipe for the entire 2017 season.Chargers (at Broncos)Los Angeles has a chance to be exceptional on defense this year. Joey Bosa is the next great player in this league, Melvin Ingram is an ideal complement to him, and the cornerbacks excel in man-to-man coverage. Jason Verrett's return from injury is huge, too. The Chargers' defense could actually challenge their Week 1 opponent's this year as the best in the AFC West.The unit isn't as strong up the middle as it is on the edges, but can Denver exploit that situation with Trevor Siemian leading the charge and zero depth at tight end? The Broncos' offensive line is also in a transitional stage, and they might not have much of a running game to lean on in order to take pressure off Siemian.If Denver finds itself in unmanageable down-and-distance situations with regularity, the offense will be in huge trouble. Luckily Denver's defense is quite impressive in its own right, since the Broncos might need a special showing on that side of the ball to overcome Los Angeles.Seahawks (at Packers)We all know the reputation the Seahawks have earned defensively, but doing battle with Aaron Rodgers is probably the most challenging task an NFL defense can take on. This matchup between NFC powerhouses could have ramifications on playoff seeding, even though it's only Week 1.The Packers still have a very good offensive line, but quality players from the unit have left town in each of the last two offseasons. Meanwhile, Seattle just traded for Sheldon Richardson. On passing downs, Rodgers will have to face the front four of Richardson and Michael Bennett on the interior with Cliff Avril and breakout candidate Frank Clark coming off the edge.Seattle's elite safety tandem remains intact, with stalwarts like Richard Sherman, Bobby Wagner, and K.J. Wright still playing outstanding football. It's also worth noting that Seattle used more man coverage last year; that approach is usually the most effective way to slow the Packers' receiving options.This will be a stiff test for both the Packers' offense and the Seahawks' defense - and certainly worth the price of admission.(Photos courtesy: Action Images)Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

At his worst, A.J. Green is a nightmare for opposing cornerbacks. At his best, he's close to unstoppable.Nevertheless, the Cincinnati Bengals' star receiver has occasionally been blanketed by some of the game's top corners - and Thursday he detailed the five toughest ones he's ever faced for The Players' Tribune.Here's Green's top five, seemingly in no particular order:

Los Angeles Rams star defensive tackle Aaron Donald is expected to miss the season opener Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts as he continues to hold out for a new contract extension, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.Rams head coach Sean McVay emphasized this week that he wouldn't rule out Donald from Week 1, but it appears Los Angeles will start the year without its best player.Donald is entering the final year of his rookie contract and the Rams picked up the fifth-year option for 2018. However, the Pro Bowler is looking to be extended now, and the two parties are reportedly "not close" to a new deal.The 26-year-old is expected to challenge Von Miller as the highest-paid defensive player in the league following two consecutive first-team All-Pro nods.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

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 1.Standard

Colin Kaepernick is close to fulfilling his pledge to give $1 million to community organizations, handing out a total of $100,000 to four charities as part of June's donations.The free-agent quarterback has been donating $100,000 every month since October 2016 and detailing how exactly the money will be used on his foundation's website.June's $100,000 was split between DREAM, Coalition For The Homeless, War on Children, and United We Dream.DREAM, based in New York City, helps more than 2,200 inner-city youth every year through "the power of teams," as well as running a charter school.Coalition For The Homeless works to end mass homelessness in New York City by providing help such as emergency food and clothing and job training. The organization is also the U.S.'s oldest advocacy, fighting to ensure "proven, cost-effective housing-based solutions to mass homelessness."War on Children is a program set to launch in 2018 by The Gathering for Justice. Kaepernick's $25,000 donation will pay for a rally, as well as three town hall meetings and three caucus trips.United We Dream is the largest immigrant youth-led organization in the U.S., and advocates for "the dignity and fair treatment of immigrant youth and families, regardless of immigration status."Kaepernick remains unemployed as the regular season is set to begin Thursday.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Los Angeles Chargers tight end Antonio Gates enters his 15th season in the NFL tied with Tony Gonzalez for the all-time touchdown record among tight ends at 111.He's accomplished the feat in 66 fewer games played than his retired colleague.While it'll take him just one well-located reception to set his own record early this season, Gates won't be content to stop there."I mean, do I know it's there? Yeah. It's like I'm at the dance, I might as well go to the party because it's within reach. But that isn't my focus at all. It really isn't on my mind. I don't think that way. I guess maybe it's because I haven't wrapped my head around it all yet. I know it's happening, and I know it's a big deal, but it's not like I'm sitting here every day saying, 'I need one. I need one.' But one isn't the destination for me," Gates said, according to Ricky Henne of the team's official website."The destination is to surpass just one. I have 16 weeks. The destination for me is whenever I'm done playing, then tally them all up and see where I'm at. So that's what I'm thinking. Now, when the game comes, then yeah probably I'll think about it a little more. But it really isn't anything I'm thinking of. I'm not going out there thinking I need to do something extra in the red zone. I'm still myself."Career touchdown No. 112 would move Gates into sixth on the all-time list. behind retired wide receivers Jerry Rice, Randy Moss, Terrell Owens, Cris Carter, and Marvin Harrison.Gates - well-known as a former college basketball star - began his football life with a prominent goal."My hope was always just to prove to everyone who Antonio Gates is ... And for my name to mean something."Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Retired linebacker Rob Ninkovich said Wednesday he's "not closing the door" on a return to the New England Patriots as the team deals with concerns about its front seven."I'm not going to lie," Ninkovich said on CSNNE's "Early Edition," according to Boston.com's Nicole Yang. "I could go, I could play, and could help the team."However, Ninkovich - who retired in July after 11 seasons with the Patriots - said he hasn't had any official talks with New England."I haven't had any contact," said Ninkovich, "I kind of took some time to relax with my family. Unfortunately, my grandfather had a stroke right before camp and he has passed since. It was nice to be able to go home, spend time with him, go to his funeral, do the things I needed to do for my family, be there for my mom. Those were things I wouldn't have been able to do if I was in training camp. Those are blessings."The Patriots lost rookie pass-rusher Derek Rivers for the season due to a torn ACL, and released Kony Ealy months after acquiring him via trade, leaving the already questionable defensive line noticeably weak.New England arguably boasts the strongest roster in the NFL, but if Ninkovich opts to return, it would alleviate some fears about the defensive front.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Tom Brady and Bill Belichick have done it all.They could have retired on top after their latest triumph - authoring the largest comeback in Super Bowl history. Instead, what might be the greatest coach in NFL history and the best quarterback to ever play are still in the game.Why? To remove the most significant stain on their resumes: 18-1.Led by Brady and Belichick, the Patriots were on course to produce an unblemished season in 2007. They surpassed the Miami Dolphins' record for most regular-season victories by going 16-0, but, thanks to the exploits of Michael Strahan, Justin Tuck, and Plaxico Burress, and a helmet catch by David Tyree, the Patriots fell short of an undefeated season. The '72 Dolphins still chide them for it, as do Patriots detractors.So, despite their fists full of Super Bowl rings, 65-year-old Belichick and 40-year-old Brady continue into a new season. After their performance in Super Bowl LI, they're clearly still on top of their respective games, but what truly drives them to continue on after having seemingly done it all? Sure, the money is nice, and the competition is unparalleled.But the pair of perfectionists know that, together, they can will their way to finishing the job: producing the greatest season the NFL has ever seen.How else to explain this past offseason? New England went all-in, trading for Brandin Cooks and and Dwayne Allen and signing Stephon Gilmore. They were the most active team of the spring, despite being defending Super Bowl champs. Upon losing Julian Edelman to a season-ending injury, they traded for Phillip Dorsett.The Pats enter 2017 as the consensus Super Bowl favorite. Boasting Brady and a healthy Rob Gronkowski, along with the offseason additions, it's not hard to see why.It may be the most loaded roster they've had since the 2007 season when Brady and Randy Moss were rewriting the record books.The Patriots have gone back-to-back before; winning consecutive championships isn't new to them. But what Belichick and director of player personnel Nick Caserio have done is put the coach in position to right a wrong.The AFC East remains weak. The Bills are starting anew under coach Sean McDermott and the Jets have the worst collection of talent in the league. The Dolphins always provide a stiff challenge, but they won't meet until the last week of November in what, at that point, might already be a special season.The rest of their schedule is a minefield, with contests against the Chiefs, Saints, Texans, Panthers, Falcons, Broncos, Raiders, and Steelers.Still, the opportunity is there. Though you'll never hear it from either man, after completing their drive for five, their next goal is perfection.Of course, despite an incredible roster and an unintimidating division, an undefeated season is far from a guarantee. But that's how Brady and Belichick would prefer it."This team will be able to write our own chapter, and hopefully it's a good one. But it's going to be determined by the work ethic that we do and the trust that we have in one another," Brady said in August.The gold jackets await. The busts have been commissioned. All that stands between Brady, Belichick, and the five-year countdown to Canton is one final box to check off: an undefeated season.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Covers.com is the biggest and best source for sports betting information, providing unrivaled and original content sports bettors cannot live without.NFL football is finally back as another preseason comes to a close. It's been seven months since the Patriots hoisted the Vince Lombardi Trophy in the greatest Super Bowl comeback ever, so what does this season have in store? To get you prepped for Week 1 of the 2017-18 season, we bring you one betting stat that you need to know for each and every team heading into this year.AFC NORTHFor a complete division preview click hereBaltimore Ravens (2016: 8-8 SU, 7-9 ATS, 7-8-1 O/U)Baltimore's secondary figures to improve with the additions of Brandon Carr and Tony Jefferson. The two of them join Jimmy Smith and Eric Weddle who made impacts last year. The Ravens also are a great bet to win close games with arguably the best kicker in football in Justin Tucker. He missed just one field goal last year and that was blocked.Cincinnati Bengals (2016: 6-9-1 SU, 7-9 ATS, 6-10 O/U)Andy Dalton puts up good numbers at quarterback against weak teams, but he has struggled in big games. Vontaze Burfict is already suspended and Adam Jones will miss Week 1 due to suspension. The Bengals have a stretch of four road games in five weeks after an early bye.Cleveland Browns (2016: 1-15 SU, 3-12-1 ATS, 8-8 O/U)When your quarterback race was between Brock Osweiler (cut), DeShone Kizer (rookie) and Cody Kessler (meh), you aren't going to win too many games. Kenny Britt is the veteran presence at wide receiver, but he will likely see a lot of double teams considering the lack of other weapons. Cleveland closes the season with four road games over the last six weeks.Pittsburgh Steelers (2016: 11-5 SU, 9-6-1 ATS, 6-10 O/U)Injuries could derail this veteran team rather quickly. Ben Roethlisberger has missed chunks of games during the past two seasons and Le'Veon Bell wasn't at training camp, which could lead to a sluggish start. James Harrison is 39 years old and despite his freakish strength and football IQ, he has definitely lost a step.AFC EASTClick here for a complete division previewBuffalo Bills (2016: 7-9 SU, 6-10 ATS, 12-4 O/U)Playing New England twice does not help things. But playing the Jets twice does and now that the Dolphins have lost Ryan Tannehill, the Bills caught a break even though the two meetings are in Weeks 15 and 17. The rest of the schedule is not easy however. In additional to having to play the AFC West and NFC South, the other two games are against the Bengals and Colts which were challenging a couple years ago but winnable now.Miami Dolphins (2016: 10-6 SU, 9-7 ATS, 12-4 O/U)Miami was a playoff team last season despite the fact Ryan Tannehill missed the last three games and it is expected to make another run this season. The loss of Tannehill for the year is tough and while the addition of Jay Cutler may not be an upgrade, it is not a downgrade either as he knows the system and should slide right in. He has plenty of playmakers around him. Overall, the Dolphins increased their talent on defense which was a weakness last season and improvements on that side of the ball can make them dangerous.New England Patriots (2016: 14-2 SU, 13-3 ATS, 6-10 O/U)As is the case every year, the Patriots have a bulls-eye on their backs and they never face an opponent that is not sky high to face them. One major factor is that New England will be overvalued in a lot of games this season based on expectations and the success it had last season. The schedule outside of the division is not easy as the Patriots face Kansas City, New Orleans, Houston, Carolina, Tampa Bay, Atlanta, Denver, Oakland and Pittsburgh, all of which are playoff contenders. That is not a very easy section of games.New York Jets (2016: 5-11 SU, 6-10 ATS, 7-8-1 O/U)The Jets will see plenty of value this upcoming season as no one will want to touch them, so their spreads are going to be enormous. The problem here is where is the quality of football going to come from? They have no proven quarterback, the receiving corps is one of the worst ever in the NFL, Matt Forte is old, the offensive line is raw and the defense is starting from scratch. There was a lack of discipline last year and that was with numerous veterans on the team, so that discipline could be dangerous again and cost head coach Todd Bowles his job.AFC SOUTHClick here for a complete division previewHouston Texans (2016: 9-7 SU, 6-9-1 ATS, 6-10 O/U)Houston was outscored by 49 points last season, which is more indicative of a six or seven win team. The only AFC teams with worse point differentials last year were Cleveland, Jacksonville and the Jets. After beating the Bears 23-14 in Week 1 last year, the Texans never again won a game by more than a touchdown. In fact, over their final 14 reg season contests, they got outscored by 66 points. When, or if, Watson will be the starting QB is a mystery with the underwhelming Tom Savage to begin the year under center. How much can Watt really improve the defensive performance from last year. By virtue of winning the division last year, they are the only AFC South team that must play the Patriots, Steelers and Chiefs this year.Indianapolis Colts (2016: 8-8 SU, 7-8-1 ATS, 9-7 O/U)Andrew Luck is at least expected to miss Week 1 and if he misses anymore time, this team is dead (even in a weak division). Luck isn't the only key player banged up either. Center Ryan Kelly missed time this preseason and it seems as if the entire receiving corps is banged up as well. This team is now "paying up" for overachieving in Luck's first several seasons. Head coach Chuck Pagano seems like a lame duck and the defense just isn't any good. If anything, look to bet the Over week-to-week with this team.Jacksonville Jaguars (2016: 3-13 SU, 8-8 ATS, 10-6 SU)Oddsmakers expect the AFC South is to be a three-horse race in 2017. But the Texans, Colts and Titans don't seem to be substantially better than the Jaguars, so there is some value here. Bettors are expecting improvement with the season win total of 6.5 heavily juiced to the Over. They had a Pythagorean Win expectation of 5.8 last year, so the win-loss record was a tad bit misleading even if the team was favored in only three games. This year, they're projected to be favored in four and should pull some upsets. Gus Bradley left behind a rapidly improving defense and top draft choice Leonard Fournette could be a difference maker on offense.Tennessee Titans (2016: 9-7 SU, 7-9 SU, 10-6 O/U)Just because the Titans may be better this year doesn't necessarily mean they will win more games. The jump that took place last year (from three wins in 2015 to nine in 2016) typically necessitates some sort of "leveling off" in year three. I'm a tad bit worried about the hype surrounding a team that won a total of five games in 2014-15. This is a division full of uninspiring head coaches and Mike Mularkey is definitely one of them. The defense was not great last year.AFC WESTClick here for a complete division previewDenver Broncos (2016: 9-7 SU, 9-7 ATS, 7-9 O/U)Denver has several question marks. First, of course, is the quarterback position. The uninspiring Trevor Siemian was named the starter, second-year signal caller Paxton Lynch is injured and now Brock Osweiler makes his return to Denver. None of these pivots rates above league average. Second, Denver’s offensive line had major problems last season. Last season’s zone-heavy scheme is being scrapped by new coach Jeff Davidson, who favors a gap approach. But it’s unclear whether this season’s offensive line will be any better than last year’s. If not, then Denver’s quarterbacks will once again face heavy pressure and be vulnerable to sacks (40 last year). Finally, Denver’s schedule is the league’s most difficult, based on its opponents’ records last season.Kansas City Chiefs (2016: 12-4 SU, 9-6-1 ATS, 6-10 O/U)Should starter Alex Smith sustain an injury, rookie Patrick Mahomes would be thrown in the fire (despite looking good this preseason). The running back position is also a concern. Jamaal Charles is gone, so the Chiefs will rely on rookie Kareem Hunt and Charcandrick West. Neither had a play from scrimmage greater than 46 yards last season. Like all the teams in the AFC West, Kansas City’s schedule is brutal this season and ranks as the league’s second most difficult behind Denver’s. Finally, the Chiefs benefited greatly from turnovers last season, as they led the league with 33. But turnovers are somewhat random, so it will be hard for the Chiefs to match that performance this season.Los Angeles Chargers (2016: 5-11 SU, 7-9 ATS, 9-6-1 O/U)Last year, the Chargers’ season took a huge hit early, when wide receiver Keenan Allen was injured in Game 1, but he is healthy now and will have help in the form of rookie WR Mike Williams (if he can stay healthy), who was drafted No. 7 overall. Those two, plus tight ends Antonio Gates and Hunter Henry, will give quarterback Philip Rivers some terrific targets. Moreover, the Chargers have a great weapon at running back in Melvin Gordon. The second-year pro rushed for 997 yards last season and will be featured in Anthony Lynn’s “ground-and-pound” approach. Also, while other teams have to worry about losing their quarterback to injury, that’s toward the bottom of the Chargers’ concerns, as Rivers has started 176 consecutive games.Oakland Raiders (2016: 12-4 SU, 10-6 ATS, 11-5 O/U)Oakland has made major strides over the past three seasons, going from 3-13 in 2014 to 7-9 in 2015 and then to 12-4 last season. Oakland will be saddled with a very difficult schedule this year (the fourth hardest in the NFL), which includes a “home” game in Mexico City versus New England. There’s also a big concern at the running back position. General manager Reggie McKenzie traded for Marshawn Lynch, who has come out of retirement to play for his hometown team. But Lynch is now 31 years old and only gained 417 yards in seven games two seasons ago. Last season, the Raiders were tied with the Chiefs for the league’s best turnover differential (+16), but that is a statistic which can greatly change from year-to-year, so the Raiders’ success will be adversely affected if they don’t reach the same heights again.NFC NORTHClick here for a complete division previewChicago Bears (2016: 3-13 SU, 7-9 ATS, 8-8 O/U)Jordan Howard accounted for over 1,600 yards in 2016 and that was with a lot of uncertainty around him on offense. Mitchell Trubisky will be a solid option at quarterback when he eventually takes over. The team spent a lot of money this offseason to upgrade the defense.Detroit Lions (2016: 9-7 SU, 8-8 ATS, 6-10 O/U)The defensive line has taken a few injuries already this offseason including Kerry Hyder who had eight sacks in 2016. Ameer Abdullah is supposed to be the feature back, but the team needs to get more from the run to keep defenses honest. Abdullah has missed time in the past, so it could be a concern that he won't be able to stand up to a regular workload. The road slate is rough with trips to New Orleans, New York, Baltimore and Tampa Bay.Green Bay Packers (2016: 10-6 SU, 9-6-1 ATS, 10-6 O/U)The run game still needs a lot of work with Ty Montgomery and Jamaal Williams vying for carries. Montgomery is a converted wide reciever while Williams is a rookie. The team is relying on a lot of young players on defense especially if they start Kevin King at corner right out of college. Three of their final four games are on the road.Minnesota Vikings (2016: 8-8 SU, 9-7 ATS, 7-9 O/U)The loss of Adrian Peterson was mitigated by the additions of Dalvin Cook and Latavius Murray. Cook is going to add some speed to the backfield and provide another option in the passing game. Sam Bradford will actually get a whole offseason with the team as opposed to last year when he came over just before the regular season began. The defense is littered with young talent including Xavier Rhodes and Linval Joseph.NFC EASTClick here for a complete division previewDallas Cowboys (2016: 13-3 SU, 10-6 ATS, 6-10 O/U)For a team that goes 13-3, regression is always possible and Dallas will not be sneaking up on anyone this season. The core group of the Cowboys is back but they did lose 10 players that accounted for over 500 games so depth could be an issue. Four of those losses came in the secondary as all four starters are gone and in a pass-heavy league, that is not a good thing. Teams will be better prepared for Prescott with a full year of film to look at. The division has gotten stronger and going 10-0 outside the division is not going to happen again. Oh, and that six game suspension for Ezekiel Elliott is going to hurt.New York Giants (2016: 11-5 SU, 9-6-1 ATS, 4-12 O/U)The Giants finished 11-5 last season and made it to the playoffs for the first time since 2011, so they can build on that heading into this year. The offense upgraded with the signing of wide receiver Brandon Marshall and drafting of tight end Evan Engram. The defense upgraded last season and it showed as New York went from dead last in total defense in 2015 to No. 10 last season while allowing the second fewest amount of points. The Giants only lost one of those starters so they could be even better this year. A pretty weak schedule should help them get back to the postseason.Philadelphia Eagles (2016: 7-9 SU, 8-8 ATS, 9-7 O/U)With the division better overall, it will be hard for the Eagles to improve on their seven wins from last season considering they started 0-4 in the division and winning the last two games when they meant nothing in Week 16 and Week 17. The schedule is tame but the opening stretch is a challenge with four of their first six games on the road and the two home games coming against the Giants and Cardinals. Philadelphia did not lose much in any big areas but did not add enough to gain significant progress either.Washington (2016: 8-7-1 SU, 10-6 ATS, 12-4 O/U)The defense was awful in 2016, allowing 377.9 yards per game which was No. 28 in the league. A new coordinator and scheme can help but it might take time to come together and in a division which should be tight, the progress cannot take too long. While the signing of Terrelle Pryor helps, losing two quality receivers is hard to overcome. Rob Kelley is the starting running back but he went over 100 yards only once last season so there will be little offensive balance. Like the Eagles, not enough was brought in to make a significant jump up.NFC SOUTHClick here for a complete division previewAtlanta Falcons (2016: 11-5 SU, 10-6 ATS, 12-3-1 O/U)The offense is probably going to regress. Granted, it was still be one of the most prolific units in the league, but the loss of offensive-coordinator Kyle Shanahan certainly matters and it will be hard for Mattt Ryan to match last year’s numbers. Also, the big question here is how will the team respond after gagging away the Super Bowl in February? In other sports, there have been recent examples of a team coming up short in a championship scenario, only to go “all the way” the following year. Clemson football, UNC hoops and the Cleveland Cavaliers all come to mind. But we haven’t seen a Super Bowl loser make it back to that game the following season since Buffalo’s string of setbacks in the early 1990’s. The division is vastly improved this year and with Atlanta expected to be favored in as many as 12 games, there should be ample opportunities to fade them.Carolina Panthers (2016: 6-10 SU, 6-9-1 ATS, 7-8-1 O/U)All signs are pointing up this year. Going into last year, no one believed Carolina would match 2015’s 15-1 mark, but the fall was far harsher than anyone could have predicted. They won nine fewer games due in large part to going from +20 to -2 in turnover margin and going 2-6 SU in one-score games (where they were 7-1 the previous season). Expect them to finish somewhere in between the last two years, this year. That means a potential return to the playoffs as Cam Newton will be healthier and he’s got a new weapon in Christian McCaffrey. By virtue of finishing last in the South last year, they will play an easier schedule. With the 49ers, Bills and Saints being the first three opponents this year, a 3-0 SU start is a very real possibility.New Orleans Saints (2016: 7-9 SU, 11-5 ATS, 9-7 O/U)There are two sides to every equation. As automatic as it may be to proclaim this offense as “good,” it’s just as easy to call the defense “very bad.” Drew Brees is also getting old (he’s 38) and don't expect a lot out of Adrian Peterson. The team traded away top receiver Brandin Cooks to the Patriots. Unless they plan on winning a lot of shootouts, another average season (at best) should be expected here. Having covered a division best 11 games in 2016, don’t expect them to be as successful at the betting window this season. They weren’t getting the usual respect at home (for some reason) last year.Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2016: 9-7 SU, 9-7 ATS, 7-8-1 O/U)Exercise cation with this sexy sleeper. The main issue is that they managed to win nine games last year despite being favored in only three. Clearly, they caught the oddsmakers by surprise. Their +6 in net upsets led the league and indicates that regression could be on the way. For all the hype, the Bucs are favored in only five (maybe six) games this year, so this kind of reminds me of last year’s Jaguars (they won’t be that bad though). This team was not as good as last year’s record indicated. The division is tough, they it's asking a lot to win at both Atlanta and Carolina again and they could be set up for disappointment.NFC WESTClick here for a complete division previewArizona Cardinals (2016: 7-8-1 SU, 6-10 ATS, 10-6 O/U)Arizona was 7-8-1 last season, but its failures could largely be chalked up to losing close games. In games decided by seven points or less, the Cardinals were 2-5-1. In 2015, when Arizona went 13-3, it was 4-1 in games decided by seven or less points. A major factor in this decline was the performance of place kicker Chandler Catanzaro, who succeeded on just 75 percent of his attempts (after converting 90.3 percent in 2015). Management replaced Catanzaro with 42-year-old veteran Phil Dawson, who has missed just three field goals each of the past two seasons. Otherwise, Arizona chose to not over-react to its disappointing season. The well-respected coaching staff remains largely in place. Bruce Arians heads the unit, and he’s 51-27-1 in his career when in charge of a staff. The Cards also boast one of the best talents in the league in running back David Johnson, who gained 100-plus yards from scrimmage in each of his first 15 games last season.Los Angeles Rams (2016: 4-12 SU, 4-11-1 ATS, 7-9 O/U)Thirty-one-year-old Sean McVay (the youngest head coach in modern NFL history) replaces Jeff Fisher. McVay’s passion and enthusiasm will be key in turning around this franchise. Additionally, Wade Phillips is the new defensive coordinator. Though the Rams ranked No. 9 in total defense last season, Phillips is arguably the best defensive coordinator in the NFL and can make the unit even better. The coaching staff’s primary goal this past offseason was to upgrade the talent around second-year quarterback Jared Goff, who had a disastrous rookie season. A key signing was veteran left tackle Andrew Whitworth. Goff also should benefit from a change in scheme, as McVay favors more of a spread offense, which is what Goff succeeded in at Cal-Berkeley. Finally, running back Todd Gurley should have a bounce-back campaign following a season in which he rushed for just 885 yards (the fewest in NFL history by a back with 275-plus carries). Last year, defenses were able to stack the box against him, but that will be less the case this season.San Francisco 49ers (2016: 2-14 SU, 4-11-1 ATS, 10-6 O/U)Erstwhile head coach Chip Kelly lasted just one season in San Francisco. The 49ers went just 2-14, in no small measure due to the fact that the players didn’t fit Kelly’s system. Enter rookie head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch. They’ve overhauled much of the roster (50 of the team’s players on its offseason roster were new), with an eye toward acquiring talent that will allow Shanahan to create an offense founded on personnel groups equally adept at running and passing the football. To help with the transition, the 49ers have also brought in players like QB Brian Hoyer and WR Pierre Garcon, who have worked under Shanahan in the past.Seattle Seahawks (2016: 10-5-1 SU, 7-8-1 ATS, 9-7 O/U)Seattle won 10 games last season — the fifth straight season it reached double-digit wins — a hallmark of consistency under coach Pete Carroll. If not for injuries to key personnel, Seattle likely would have won more than it did. Free safety Earl Thomas suffered a broken leg in a December game versus Carolina, after which Seattle’s defense gave up 30-plus points in three of its final six games (losing those three). Additionally, cornerback Richard Sherman was bothered by an MCL injury, while quarterback Russell Wilson battled knee and ankle injuries the entire season. Wilson’s rushing productivity was greatly affected, as he ran for a career-low 259 yards. The good news is that all of Seattle’s key players are feeling fit, so it’s a reasonable expectation that it will once again find the form which allowed it to reach the Super Bowl in the 2013 and 2014 seasons. Finally, the Seahawks play in a weak division, and get to play two of the worst teams in football (Rams, 49ers) twice each.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell insisted Thursday he doesn't think Colin Kaepernick is being blackballed, but acknowledged he can't pinpoint why the quarterback remains unsigned.In an appearance on FS1's "First Things First," Goodell was asked if Kaepernick's play last season warranted a contract for the 2017 season."I'm not a football expert," Goodell said, as transcribed by Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk. "I'm a huge fan. I have a role as commissioner also, but for me, I watch the games and enjoy and I let the football people make those decisions."The commissioner suggested that, so far, teams hadn't judged Kaepernick to be a fit."I want to see everyone get an opportunity, including Colin, but those decisions are made by football people," Goodell said."When teams have a need and teams feel like they can get better by a particular individual, whether they know the system, or whether they have more talent, or whatever it may be, that's what they do. And I'm still convinced that he'll get that opportunity when the right opportunity comes along. That's what our league's all about."Kaepernick, the poster child for NFL players protesting the national anthem, has been out of a job since March, when he and the San Francisco 49ers mutually agreed to part ways. The 29-year-old has received little interest as a free agent while continuing to speak out against social injustice.He threw for 2,241 yards with 16 touchdowns and four interceptions on a 59 percent completion rate during 12 appearances a season ago. He also rushed for 468 yards with two touchdowns and two fumbles.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

When Kirk Cousins turned down a long-term contract this offseason from the Washington Redskins that included an extra $29 million in guaranteed money, the quarterback was only submitting to a higher power.Cousins opted to play under the one-year franchise tag for a second consecutive season, offering zero insurance against any potentially crippling injury. It's a bold move for someone who came into his starting role by watching firsthand as Robert Griffin III's career was derailed by knee injuries.But Cousins has faith that everything will turn out for the best.While players such as Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell do all they can to avoid the tag and the risk which comes with it, Cousins feels the tag was meant for him, according to a transcribed address at Liberty University last Friday.

Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett has been diagnosed with a high ankle sprain, the team announced Thursday.The Browns will update his status in a couple weeks.Garrett suffered the injury earlier this week when a player fell on his leg while he was engaged with a separate player at practice, according to senior Browns broadcaster Nathan Zegura. He underwent an MRI on Wednesday.This will mark the second consecutive campaign that the year's No. 1 pick doesn't play in the season opener. In 2016, Los Angeles Rams quarterback Jared Goff began the season as the backup. The Browns' 2016 first-round pick, wide receiver Corey Coleman, was limited to 10 games in his rookie season after suffering an injury in Week 2.Shortly after announcing Garrett's injury, the Browns also announced the re-signing of defensive lineman Tyrone Holmes. Holmes played in 11 games with Cleveland last season but didn't start once. He made just six combined tackles and one sack in his rookie campaign.During Garrett's absence, defensive ends Nate Orchard and Carl Nassib are expected to step into expanded roles on the defense.Orchard appeared in just three contests last season, making four combined tackles without a sack, and receiving an unqualified Pro Football Focus grade of just 43.3. The 2015 51st overall pick played in 15 games as a rookie, amassing 36 combined tackles, three sacks, and a forced fumble.Nassib, a Browns third-round pick last year, played 14 games in his rookie season, making 2.5 sacks and finishing the year as PFF's 108th-ranked edge rusher with a grade of 42.2.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

After what seemed an impossibly long summer, the NFL returns Thursday with the defending champion New England Patriots hosting the Kansas City Chiefs.Although the league's elite teams have seemingly separated themselves from the rest of the pack, all 32 teams are fallible. And on the eve of the regular season, we dispense some advice to every club in hopes of accomplishing their best year yet.Arizona Cardinals: Re-establish trust with John Brown and J.J. Nelson. David Johnson and Larry Fitzgerald may break down if the offense revolves around them alone.Atlanta Falcons: It's not your fault! Baltimore Ravens: Call a meeting with Ray Lewis and ask the 13-time Pro Bowler to stop acting as an unofficial team spokesman. It's not helping anyone at this juncture.Buffalo Bills: Execute a full-scale rebuild. Half-measures won't help the Bills break the cycle of mediocrity and it may be worth jettisoning all current assets in the hopes of building a long-term powerhouse. Don't laugh, you guys!Carolina Panthers: Let Cam Newton dab again! The star quarterback was missing his swagger during the 2016 season and allowing him to play carefree will likely see him return to top formChicago Bears: Don't be hesitant to dismiss head coach John Fox. Although he joined the Bears with a great pedigree, a .281 winning percentage can only be excused for so long.Cincinnati Bengals: Commit to a lead running back. The carousel of Joe Mixon, Giovani Bernard, and Jeremy Hill will prove to be a nightmare for an offense that is quickly losing any semblance of identity.Cleveland Browns: Be patient. The Browns have assembled a talented roster but they are still young and facing a steep learning curve. Give this core some time to develop this fall while keeping the goal of long-term contention in mind.Dallas Cowboys: Empower Dak Prescott to be the best leader he can be. Prescott didn't fluke into Pro Bowl and Offensive Rookie of the Year honors last year despite what some members of the football cognoscenti believe and he could become unstoppable if he succeeds without Ezekiel Elliott.Denver Broncos: Consider signing Colin Kaepernick. It's a sentiment expressed to many teams, but the Broncos should not let a Super Bowl-caliber defense go to waste due to semantics alone.Detroit Lions: Invest in an alarm clock. The Lions set a record for fourth-quarter comebacks last season, an unsustainable formula for success.Green Bay Packers: Continue to dial up aggressive blitz packages. The Packers ranked within the top six in sacks and interceptions last year and a defense that continues to be remotely stable is all Aaron Rodgers needs for the second Super Bowl victory of his career.Houston Texans: Encourage J.J. Watt to continue to lead by example, as his fundraising efforts during Hurricane Harvey have proven to transcend sports and celebrity itself.Indianapolis Colts: Give Andrew Luck all the time he needs to recover from surgery. The Colts aren't going anywhere this fall and they could be in line for a top draft pick if Luck is given time to rest, while Scott Tolzien falters.Jacksonville Jaguars: Provide Blake Bortles with some tough love. The Jaguars have given him every chance to succeed and if he falters again, start building a contingency plan while stop-gap Chad Henne takes over.Kansas City Chiefs: Trade Alex Smith while you can still gauge value from him as numerous teams look for genuine starters, as Patrick Mahomes is ready to take over the franchise and propel the Chiefs to new heights.Los Angeles Chargers: Continue to operate an aggressive secondary. The Chargers finished tied for first in the NFL with 18 interceptions last year and while turnover differential always fluctuates wildly, it's worth replicating the same formula.Los Angeles Rams: Allow Sean McVay to coach the Rams without any interference. McVay is the youngest head coach in league history and will likely not have to deal with the external criticism lobbied at Jeff Fisher, before he was ousted.Miami Dolphins: Stop treating Jay Cutler as a meme from yesteryear and as an actual, capable quarterback tasked with leading the team back to the playoffs.Minnesota Vikings: Show Anthony Barr and Eric Kendricks their highlight tapes from 2015. Both linebackers' declines last year were seemingly inexplicable and both players need to be at their best if the Vikings are to challenge for a playoff spot.New England Patriots: Do not change a thing.New Orleans Saints: Stop playing a game of chicken with Drew Brees over a prospective contract extension. He's the best player in franchise history and losing him would be catastrophic for such a cap-tied organization.New York Giants: Whether it's fair or not, restrict the team from all boating activities during the season. Odell Beckham Jr. isn't a distraction by any means but the circus-style coverage surrounding the team's boat trip proved to be unnecessary.New York Jets: In the world's largest media market, the Jets should uninstall the Twitter app and purchase a pair of noise-canceling headphones to block out the constant array of bad news.Oakland Raiders: Trade for a proven inside linebacker. If you can name the team's starters at this position, you're either on the Raiders coaching staff or spent far too much time monitoring their depth chart.Philadelphia Eagles: Add a number of slant and curl routes to the playbook. If Carson Wentz isn't capable of making downfield throws, it's on the Eagles to provide him with the best circumstances to succeed.Pittsburgh Steelers: Make sure Le'Veon Bell's every need is catered to, even as he becomes the league's highest-paid running back this season. The prospect of Bell leaving is untenable.San Francisco 49ers: Keep Jed York away from all critical meetings. A new regime led by Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch has been installed and York's imprint could sink a team that is slowly climbing out of the proverbial debris.Seattle Seahawks: Let Sheldon Richardson be himself. The Seahawks have one of the most liberal environments in the NFL and allowing Richardson to just play without having to scale back his personality could make him the final piece for the Seahawks' Super Bowl run.Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Don't tell Jameis Winston that the "Hard Knocks" cameras have stopped rolling. Winston showed every sign of developing into a superstar on HBO's program this fall and could lead the Buccaneers to a division title in a wide-open NFC South.Tennessee Titans: Get rookies Corey Davis, Taywan Taylor, and Adoree' Jackson involved early. While the Titans are vying for the division title, the team is succeeding in large part due to its youngest players and could be placing the seeds for long-term contention after this year.Washington Redskins: Leave the Kirk Cousins contract fiasco alone until the summer. For the time being, he has to play under the franchise tag and fretting about it during the season can impede a sneaky-good offense that could make waves in 2017.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Oakland Raiders and kicker Sebastian Janikowski resolved an impasse over the veteran's contract, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter.Janikowski was reportedly asked to rework his deal for the upcoming season - which was set to pay him $4.05 million in base salary with a $4.4-million cap hit - but he originally declined.Details of the resolution haven't been revealed.The 39-year-old owns several league and team records and has been with the Raiders since being selected in the first round of the 2000 NFL Draft.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay refused to rule out Aaron Donald for the team's season opener on Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts, despite the star defensive tackle's contract holdout.It was reported Saturday that Donald and the Rams were "not close" in contract negotiations, with the two-time All-Pro in the final year of his rookie contract. The Rams exercised the fifth-year option on Donald in April."We're still in the same place," McVay said via ESPN's Alden Gonzalez. "I know I kind of sound monotonous, (saying), 'We're trying to find a solution.' Which is exactly the truth. There's no update right now."Donald is the NFL's premier defensive tackle and any time missed during the regular season would be a horrific blow to the Rams.Tanzel Smart is expected to start in Donald's place if the three-time Pro Bowler refuses to rejoin the team.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The 2017 NFL season is finally upon us. Get ready with theScore's crash course.Making HeadlinesGet caught up on the offseason's predominant narratives:

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. - Von Miller says Trevor Siemian has ''that Peyton Manning vibe.''''The energy that Peyton had, that's what Trevor has,'' Denver's superstar linebacker said.Siemian also has Brock Osweiler as a backup.Osweiler is getting a crash course in Mike McCoy's new offense following a whirlwind weekend in which he made a beeline for his old home after getting cut by Cleveland.''This is Trevor's team, and I'm the backup,'' Osweiler said upon his return to Denver, where he was Manning's understudy from 2012-15.That's a role reversal for the quarterbacks.Siemian picked Osweiler's brain as much, if not more, than Manning's when he got to Denver as a seventh-round draft pick in 2015, then forced his way onto the 53-man roster of a Super Bowl-bound team.Now, he's the one helping Osweiler digest the playbook.''He's got exposure to this system, so he's done a really good job of picking things up on the fly. A little change in verbiage, but he's gotten a lot of it, for the most part,'' Siemian said. ''So, I'm helping him out when I can. And shoot, he's helping me out, too. So, it's good.''So, no, Manning's successor isn't looking over his shoulder at the man who was, for so long, Manning's heir apparent.''I'm excited to have him back,'' Siemian said. ''I was good friends with Brock when he was here. He's was an unreal teammate, and I speak for a lot of the guys in the locker room when I say that. So, if you've met Brock, you know how sincere he is, how helpful he is. So, we're just lucky to have him.''Siemian was the Broncos' third quarterback in 2015 but was one snap away from starting for the seven weeks Osweiler replaced an injured Manning.He rose to the top of the depth chart the following season when Manning retired a month after the Super Bowl and Osweiler signed with the Texans in free agency.On the same day Miller earned his first captainship of his seven-year NFL career, Siemian's teammates named him a captain for the second straight season Wednesday.''It's an unreal honor for me,'' Siemian said. ''It's really cool. The respect I have for the locker room, it's cool to see they have some respect for me. We're just a couple of guys that got named. But we have so many leaders in the locker room. It's just cool to be a part of.''Miller also had high praise for Osweiler .''That was my guy. I didn't want him to leave in the first place,'' Miller said. ''So, to have him back like that, to have his energy back, we won a lot of games with Brock. Some of the stuff that Brock did for this team was unbelievable. So, to have that energy back on the football field, back in the locker room, it kind of feels like 2015. And we did a lot of great stuff in 2015, so we're sure to have a great year this year.''The Broncos needed a veteran backup QB after Paxton Lynch sprained his throwing shoulder against Green Bay on Aug. 26 in his first game after Siemian officially beat him out again.The Broncos are only on the hook for $775,000 of Osweiler's salary this season with the Browns paying the other $15.25 million.An even bigger bargain is Siemian, whose $615,000 annual salary doesn't come close to Osweiler's weekly paycheck of $941,176.Rex Ryan, who makes his debut as an ESPN television analyst Monday night when the Broncos host the Chargers, suggested over the summer that Lynch - who's making $880,741 this season - should be named the starter so the Broncos see what they have in their first-round investment.He's come around on Siemian, however, suggesting Wednesday that winning the quarterback competition two years running shows the former Northwestern QB has the requisite grit and his teammates' trust.''The players believe in him and they know he's believes in himself,'' Ryan said. ''And that's what you have to have at that position. Obviously, he doesn't have the (prototype size) that you look for ... But this is a game based on production.''Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell offered his support to Michael Bennett on Wednesday, hours after the Seattle Seahawks defender detailed a disturbing encounter with Las Vegas police Aug. 27."Michael Bennett represents the best of the NFL - a leader on the team and in his community," Goodell said in a statement. "Our foremost concern is the welfare of Michael and his family."Bennett said he was racially profiled by officers after a series of gun shots went off near the area he was located, and victimized by an instance of police brutality. He said one officer used excessive force to pin him to the ground and handcuff him while another one threatened to shoot him dead if he moved.Related: Video emerges of Bennett being detained by Vegas policeBennett is one of several NFL players who have protested the national anthem before games, citing police brutality against minorities as a primary reason."The issues Michael has been raising deserve serious attention from all of our leaders in every community," Goodell said in his statement.Related: NFLPA executive director to meet with Bennett, issues statementThe commissioner added the league will support Bennett and all of its players in promoting mutual respect between law enforcement and the communities they serve.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

(Warning: Story contains coarse language)The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department stated Wednesday that its decision to detain Michael Bennett on Aug. 26 was prompted by the Seattle Seahawks defensive end's actions in running from a casino, according to Gregg Bell of The News Tribune.Bennett was in Las Vegas to attend the Floyd Mayweather-Conor McGregor fight and alleged that police used excessive force while detaining him. The Seahawks' star said he heard noises that resembled gun shots, which prompted him to flee the hotel.Police stated that the arresting officer did not have his body camera on him during the time of Bennett's detainment."Many of the folks today have called this an incident of bias-based policing, police officers focusing solely on the race of an individual that they're going to stop," Las Vegas Police Department undersheriff Kevin McMahill said via Kevin Spain of USA TODAY. "I can tell you as I stand here today, I see no evidence of that. I see no evidence that race played any role in this incident."TMZ Sports obtained a video of Bennett's detainment, however, where the defensive end is heard yelling "I wasn't doing nothing, man! I was here with my friends. They told us to get out, everybody ran!"The department also said they have 126 videos to review in regards to the Bennett incident.Bennett released his statement Wednesday and is considering legal action, alleging that officers threatened to "blow (his) fucking head off."NFLPA executive director DeMaurice Smith and NFL commissioner Roger Goodell both released statements in support of Bennett, joining several others in the football community that were appalled by the way he was treated.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman came to the defense of his teammate Michael Bennett, after the veteran lineman was detained by Las Vegas police on Aug. 26 following the Floyd Mayweather-Conor McGregor fight.Bennett alleged that police used excessive force on him and video emerged from the altercation.Sherman empathized with Bennett but noted that celebrity wouldn't absolve either him or his teammate from encountering police brutality in the future."It's unfortunate," Sherman said via Stefanie Loh of The Seattle Times. "We're obviously happy he made it out. But, day in the life, though. I'm sure, as he said, it's something he's been through before and is going to have to go through again."No amount of money, no amount of fame or notoriety can keep you from things like that happening to you. It's just an unfortunate part of life."Related: NFLPA executive director to meet with Bennett, issues statementSherman said he was profiled by police while growing up in Compton and said it's not rare for NFL players to experience racial inequality or police brutality before reaching the professional ranks.Related: Seahawks' Carroll: Bennett incident with police 'the reality of inequality'"Honestly, a lot of guys have dealt with this throughout their lives," Sherman said. "It's gonna happen to you at least once or twice in your life, maybe more. You've just got to respond to it the right way and try to stay clam and do everything they tell you to do. And hopefully they do the right thing. And thankfully, Mike did, and they allowed him to walk away.""I pray that society gets to a place where this is a rarity, where this is obscene and this is outrageous and the entire world is outraged by it," Sherman later added. "I think there are some people that are outraged by it ... but a lot of people are quietly outraged by it. Silently outraged by it. Not a lot of people are actually doing things as if they happened to you."Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

In advance of Week 1, many fantasy owners find themselves needing to make adjustments after drafting injured Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck, or any of the marquee players who were supposed to be involved in the postponed game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Miami Dolphins.Here are the best options likely to be available on the waiver wire at each position.QuarterbackWho's out: Luck, Jameis Winston, Jay CutlerJoe Flacco, Ravens (at Bengals)Flacco has deemed himself good to go for Week 1, and head coach John Harbaugh has declared the quarterback "ready to roll."Flacco threw just one touchdown and two interceptions across two games against the Bengals last season, but completed an impressive 67.9 percent of his passes. The Ravens are still expected to be an extremely pass-heavy team after ranking first in the league with 66 percent passing plays last season. Wide receiver Jeremy Maclin and running back Danny Woodhead will only help boost Flacco's overall numbers.Sam Bradford, Vikings (vs. Saints)Bradford's home game raises both his floor and ceiling. He completed 73.7 percent of his passes at home last season, while owning an 11-to-2 touchdown-to-interception ratio.Rookie Dalvin Cook steps in as the pass-catching back the team sorely needed last season, while the returning trio of Stefon Diggs, Adam Thielen, and tight end Kyle Rudolph will attack a Saints defense that Football Outsiders ranked 30th in pass defense DVOA last season. New Orleans has made few important changes to the unit since.Brian Hoyer, 49ers (vs. Panthers)Pierre Garcon and Marquise Goodwin represent lackluster options for Hoyer as the 49ers' top two receivers, but the journeyman quarterback was hand-selected for a reunion with head coach Kyle Shanahan.Both Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman excelled as pass-catchers in Shanahan's system with the Atlanta Falcons last season. Carlos Hyde, who averaged 6 yards per reception last season, is expected to follow suit.Running backWho's out: Jay Ajayi, Doug Martin, Jacquizz RodgersShane Vereen, Giants (at Cowboys)Giants running back Paul Perkins handled just 112 rushing attempts last season, averaging an adequate 4.1 yards per carry but failing to score a touchdown. He received 24 targets in his 14 games, catching just 15 passes.The Cowboys opened as 5.5-point favorites at home versus their division rival, likely forcing the Giants and quarterback Eli Manning to pass more than their 61.61 percent rate of last season.Vereen missed much of last year, but has averaged 9.1 yards per reception and nearly three catches per game for his career.Alvin Kamara, Saints (at Vikings)As running backs Mark Ingram and Adrian Peterson cap each other's upside in the ground game, Kamara is expected to serve as the primary pass-catcher out of the backfield. It's an even more important role with No. 2 receiver Willie Snead suspended to start the season.The Vikings allowed 40 receiving yards per game to opposing running backs in 2016. The Vikings are favored in this one by 3.5 points, indicating the Saints will need to lean on the passing attack late in the game.C.J. Prosise, Seahawks (at Packers)While considered questionable, Prosise is expected to handle passing work behind Eddie Lacy and Thomas Rawls.He averaged 12.2 yards per reception on 17 catches as a rookie, without losing a fumble. His floor is extremely risky, but he did have two games with more than 80 receiving yards last season, with two catches topping 35 yards.Wide receiverWho's out: Mike Evans, DeSean Jackson, Jarvis Landry, DeVante Parker, Willie Snead, Julian Edelman, Cameron Meredith, John RossPhillip Dorsett, Patriots (vs. Chiefs)While it remains unclear how, or how often, Dorsett will be used in his first game with the Patriots, his ceiling is sky high.Unfortunately his floor remains low - a big risk for owners forced to plug in a player for Thursday's game.The former first-round pick was targeted by the Patriots as a partial replacement for Julian Edelman. He could quickly prove himself to be a must-own player in PPR leagues.Zay Jones, Bills (vs. Jets)Of the No. 2 receivers available on the waiver wire, Jones has the best quarterback and the best shot at emerging as his team's No. 1 option in the passing game.What's working against the Bills is the likelihood of this game quickly developing into a rout of the lowly Jets, something that could shut down Buffalo's passing attack early. But fantasy managers shouldn't worry too much about Jones being able to return value before his departure.Mohamed Sanu, Falcons, at BearsSanu had just two games with 10 or more targets last season, but he caught at least three passes in all but four regular season games.New Falcons offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian is likely to simplify the system ran by 2016 coordinator Kyle Shanahan. Sanu finished last year ranked 18th among qualified receivers by Pro Football Focus, and he starts the season as the Falcons' No. 2 threat on the depth chart.Tight endWho's out: O.J. Howard, Cameron Brate, Julius ThomasEvan Engram, Giants, at CowboysBoth Odell Beckham Jr. and Brandon Marshall are fully expected to play in the Sunday night game, but both could be less than 100 percent.Even with both active, the 240-pound Engram represents a massive red-zone threat. Dallas ranked 30th in DVOA against tight ends last season and allowed 75.5 yards per game to the position.Jared Cook, Raiders, at TitansThe Raiders ranked 13th in the NFL last season by scoring a touchdown on 58.62 percent of their red-zone drives.The 6-foot-5, 254-pound Cook should help out in this facet of Oakland's game. Running back Latavius Murray, who ranked third in red-zone touchdowns in 2016 is gone. And while Marshawn Lynch is likely an overall improvement in talent, the 11 scores could be dispersed around the offense.(Photos courtesy: Action Images)Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

You can almost taste the 2017 NFL season, with the New England Patriots and Kansas City Chiefs kicking things off Thursday night.While there are plenty of household names for fans to look forward to watching, there are even more players who most have barely heard of. But all it takes is a few highlight-reel (or lowlight-reel) plays to get noticed.Here is one player from every team who you may not know at the moment, but will by the time Week 17 wraps up in January:NFC | AFCDE Chris Harris, BengalsHarris will have to fight for snaps, with starters Michael Johnson and Carlos Dunlap and rookie Jordan Willis ahead of him, but the preseason standout could make a big impact in his limited role. Harris totaled 14 combined pressures in Weeks 1 and 2 of the preseason, and got one sack in Week 3, according to Pro Football Focus.WR Zay Jones, BillsFollowing the trade of Sammy Watkins, Buffalo needs its second-round pick, Jones, to step up in a big way. Luckily, the 22-year-old's ability to win contested catches and versatility should make Bills nation forget about what could have been with Watkins - even just a little.S Justin Simmons, BroncosIf you're looking for the reason why the Broncos released three-time Pro Bowler T.J. Ward, Simmons is it. The second-year safety has been named a starter after a strong preseason. He should bring more youth and sideline-to-sideline speed to an already standout secondary, and is well-placed to succeed thanks to the presence of top cornerback duo Aqib Talib and Chris Harris Jr.WR Kasen Williams, BrownsWilliams stood out so much during the preseason for the Seattle Seahawks that Richard Sherman blasted the team for releasing him. The Seahawks' loss was the Browns' gain, who claimed Williams as a high-ceiling prospect in a receiver room that needs more talent. Once Williams gets up to speed, he could become a favorite of DeShone Kizer.WR Chester Rogers, ColtsThe reason the Colts felt comfortable moving on from the past regime's first-round mistake, Phillip Dorsett, was the emergence of slot receiver Rogers. He had 273 yards last season, and could at least triple that production in 2017 if Luck's absence is short.K Younghoe Koo, ChargersIt's hard for a kicker to become a household name, but Koo is already known on the Internet for this viral sensation. Even more impressive is that the undrafted free agent managed to beat out veteran Josh Lambo for the Chargers' starting job. In a time when specialists are becoming stars, and with L.A.'s offense set to put up a ton of points, Koo will likely soon be known for more than just his trick shots.DE Chris Jones, ChiefsUnfortunately for Jones, the most memorable thing about him so far is his infamous wardrobe malfunction at the 2016 NFL Combine. However, the second-rounder put together a solid rookie season, displaying impressive athleticism and pass-rushing skills. Jones should be the key to the Chiefs remaining one of the league's top defense.WR Jakeem Grant, DolphinsGrant didn't have a catch in his rookie season, as he struggled to adjust to the NFL level and looked in danger of being cut this offseason. Instead, it seemed to click for the receiver, who should be Miami's main kick returner. His quickness and talent for explosive plays should bring an added dimension to the Dolphins' offense.DE Yannick Ngakoue, JaguarsA curse of playing for the perennially underwhelming Jaguars is good performances from lesser-known players often fly under the radar - even when you put up eight sacks as a rookie, like Ngakoue. The defensive end needs to work on his run defense and diversifying his pass-rushing repertoire, but he's still set to garner some significant attention.S Marcus Maye, JetsFirst-rounder Jamal Adams will likely dominate the headlines thanks to his hard-hitting playing style and penchant for spectacular plays near the line of scrimmage. However, all of that will only be possible because of fellow rookie Maye's ability to roam the field, as well as make tackles. In what should be a long season for the Jets, their young safety tandem will be one of the few highlights.LB Kyle Van Noy, PatriotsEvery season, a member of the Patriots comes out of nowhere to produce an outstanding season - it's the Bill Belichick guarantee if you will. In 2017, that player could be Van Noy, who helped fill in for Jamie Collins after a midseason trade. The young linebacker doesn't boast outstanding athleticism, but is more than capable of holding up in coverage and would make a solid pair with Dont'a Hightower.DT Eddie Vanderdoes, RaidersInjuries late in Vanderdoes' college career meant he fell to the Raiders in the second round, and they will likely be grateful he did. For too long, the interior of Oakland's defensive line has been a weakness, but Vanderdoes looks like he can be the first step to fixing the issue once and for all after an eye-catching training camp.TE Maxx Williams, RavensThe Ravens sorely need someone to emerge on offense after injuries to Dennis Pitta and Kenneth Dixon. Williams could be their man. He allayed concerns about his health following a rare knee surgery with a nice 40-yard catch in the Ravens' second preseason game.DT Javon Hargrave, SteelersIt's hard to get noticed as a nose tackle, but if you see James Harrison, T.J. Watt, and Co. bearing down on the opposing quarterback, it might be because of the havoc Hargrave is causing in the center of the defensive line. The second-year lineman isn't your normal space-eating nose tackle; he can create pressure himself due to his surprising agility.WR Braxton Miller, TexansMost know Miller as Ohio State's starting quarterback from 2011-13, but he made the transition to receiver in his final year at college and was a third-rounder a year ago. The jump to the NFL is a hard one for nearly all rookies, but especially one still learning the nuances of the position. When it does click for Miller, though, he possesses the kind of lightning-quick speed and agility that could make him a monster out of the slot early in the year with Will Fuller sidelined.S Kevin Byard, TitansTrue center fielders are rare, and while he has a long way to go, Byard is one of the candidates to succeed Earl Thomas and Eric Berry as the preeminent free safeties in the league. He was outstanding in coverage during his rookie season, and should only be better in 2017 thanks to the addition of Johnathan Cyprien - a run-stopping safety who nicely complements Byard's skill set.NFC | AFCCopyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

You can almost taste the 2017 NFL season, with the New England Patriots and Kansas City Chiefs kicking things off Thursday night.While there are plenty of household names for fans to look forward to watching, there are even more players who most have barely heard of. But all it takes is a few highlight-reel (or lowlight-reel) plays to get noticed.Here is one player from every team who you may not know at the moment, but will by the time Week 17 wraps up in January:NFC | AFCRB Tarik Cohen, BearsNicknamed "The Human Joystick," Cohen has already begun contributing to his highlight reel with his blistering speed and quick-cutting ability. The Bears are short on playmaking weapons, and the rookie runner will have the benefit of opposing defenses focusing on starter Jordan Howard.WR Chris Godwin, BuccaneersWith all eyes on the additions of DeSean Jackson and O.J. Howard, third-round pick Godwin has flown under the radar, but the 6-foot-1 receiver could be a force as a depth player. Godwin can make ultra-athletic catches and has the skill set to play anywhere the Bucs need him to line up, which can't be said about the entire receiving corps.CB Justin Bethel, CardinalsBethel is in his sixth season with the Cardinals and has actually made three Pro Bowls as a special teamer. He will be relied upon to start opposite Patrick Peterson, making him a popular target for opposing offenses. Bethel will either become a household name due to giving up big gains or from a breakout performance.QB Cooper Rush, CowboysThough Rush won't be on the field much, he's a tough name to forget once you've heard it. Realistically, he probably beat out veterans Luke McCown and Kellen Moore because Jerry Jones likes his name so much. Cooper Rush - he sounds like a fictional quarterback Jones created playing Madden.CB Jalen Mills, EaglesMills quickly went from the seventh-round pick who puts green dye in his hair to a starter for the Eagles in 2016. As his confidence grows and his distinct look becomes known, Mills could become the face of the Philadelphia secondary.LB Duke Riley, FalconsRiley joins Deion Jones as the next in a tradition of LSU linebackers that can play with speed and do well in coverage. Riley may not begin the year as a starter, but he and Jones could be a dynamite duo by the end of his rookie campaign.TE George Kittle, 49ersThe fifth-round pick will start for Kyle Shanahan's offense, and without much depth in the receiving corps, he is likely to be relied upon heavily - especially in the red zone.S Andrew Adams, GiantsNo one gave much credit to Adams as a rookie last season with Landon Collins, Janoris Jenkins, and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie garnering the bulk of the attention. As an undrafted free agent, Adams went from the practice squad to starting 13 games in the Giants' top-notch defense last season. He won't go unnoticed two years in a row.WR Kenny Golladay, LionsAlready nicknamed "Babytron," Golladay had a stellar preseason coming out of Northern Illinois as a third-round pick. He will be a starting receiver for Detroit after quickly gaining chemistry with Matthew Stafford. Look for him to be making plays in the end zone not unlike Mr. Calvin Johnson did in the Motor City.WR Trevor Davis, PackersThe Packers always seem to find talent among their depth of pass-catchers in big thanks to Aaron Rodgers, but Davis broke out on his own this preseason as a kick returner. Whether he gets on the field as a receiver or a returner, Davis will be showing off his speed in 2017.OT Taylor Moton, PanthersMoton may not actually step on the field this season, but with the Panthers shelling out big bucks to mediocre left tackle Matt Kalil, there is a strong chance Carolina fans will be calling to see the rookie take the field if Cam Newton keeps taking big hits.WR Cooper Kupp, RamsWhile the addition of Sammy Watkins will push Kupp down the depth chart, he looked to have a solid connection with Jared Goff in the preseason and can be used out wide or in the slot. The chip on his shoulder and his small school background makes him a likable character that should be motivated to make a splash.S D.J. Swearinger, RedskinsSwearinger was forced to play second fiddle to Tyrann Mathieu and Patrick Peterson in the Cardinals' secondary, but in his first year with the Redskins, the fifth-year pro has already been named a captain. His hard-hitting style and outspoken opinions will be on full display as he is relied upon in Washington's defense.WR Tommylee Lewis, SaintsWithout Willie Snead for the opening three games, the Saints will need some extra speed out of the slot and Lewis is their best shot to find it. The second-year receiver is a bit undersized at 5-foot-7, but if his speed is enough to make up for Snead through three games, he won't be phased out of the offense soon.CB Shaquill Griffin, SeahawksThe newest member of the "Legion of Boom" is a 6-foot corner who has already caught the eye of Richard Sherman and will likely see a lot of the field. With all the other Seahawks defenders already having made their name, Griffin will be tested early and often - for good or for bad.C Pat Elflein, VikingsIt's tough to find a hole in Elflein's game after studying his performance at Ohio State. The rookie interior lineman impressed the Vikings enough to get rid of veteran guard Alex Boone, and now he'll be tasked with leading Minnesota's new-look offensive line as it makes way for Dalvin Cook.(Photos courtesy: Action Images)NFC | AFCCopyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have restructured defensive end Cameron Heyward's contract, saving over $3 million in cap space for the upcoming season, a source told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.Heyward was previously slated to earn $5 million in base salary for the upcoming season, while carrying a $10.4-million cap hit.The 28-year-old recorded 21 tackles, three sacks, and four pass deflections in seven games last season, before suffering a torn pectoral muscle against the Dallas Cowboys in November.Heyward has been a key component of the Steelers' defense since being selected in the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll backed his star defender Michael Bennett on Wednesday, after he alleged police in Las Vegas racially profiled and threatened to kill him in an incident Aug. 27."Michael Bennett unfortunately experienced a horrendous incident on August 27," Carroll said in a statement posted online. "We are thankful he is safe, and we take this opportunity to say that we stand in support of him and anyone facing inequalities."What happened to Michael is a classic illustration of the reality of inequality demonstrated daily."Bennett revealed Wednesday morning he was viciously pinned to the ground and handcuffed by police after a series of gun shots went off near the area he was located. Bennett was in Las Vegas to take in the boxing match between Floyd Mayweather and Conor McGregor.Related: Kaepernick stands with Bennett after 'disgusting' incident with policeA video of the encounter obtained by TMZ showed Bennett pleading with one officer while another officer stood on a balcony above holding what appeared to be a handgun."I wasn't doing nothing, man!" Bennett is heard shouting in the video "... I was here with my friends! They told us to get out, everybody ran!"Carroll said he hopes the incident inspires everyone to stand for change when inequalities are brought to light.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.