USC quarterback Caleb Williams has set a lofty goal for his NFL career.The Trojans star, who's the consensus favorite to be selected first overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, revealed in an interview with Sam Schube of GQ that he wants to win eight Super Bowls to surpass future Hall of Famer Tom Brady."Tom Brady has seven," Williams said. "So you got to set the bar high."Brady won six Super Bowl championships with the New England Patriots and one as a member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the most by any player in NFL history. He also holds the record for the most Super Bowl MVP awards with five.Williams threw for 4,537 yards with 42 touchdowns and five interceptions as a sophomore last season. He won the Heisman Trophy, beating out TCU's Max Duggan, Ohio State's C.J. Stroud, and Georgia's Stetson Bennett, all of whom have since been drafted into the NFL.Through two games this season, Williams has completed 73.5% of his passes for 597 yards, nine touchdowns, and zero interceptions.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Although Patrick Mahomes and Kadarius Toney struggled to get anything going for the Kansas City Chiefs against the Detroit Lions on Thursday night, the quarterback said he still has faith in his young pass-catcher."He wanted to play and fought in rehab hard so he could play," Mahomes said, according to Kevin Patra of NFL Network. "Stuff is not always going to go your way."Obviously, he would have wanted to catch a few of those in the game, but I have trust that he is going to be the guy that I go to in those crucial moments, and he's going to make the catch and win us some games like he did last year and get him more and more reps. I'm sure that those drops will disappear."The pair combined for just one catch on eight targets. Toney featured heavily in the Chiefs' offense but had 1 receiving yard and multiple dropped passes. One of the drops led to a pick-6 that swung the momentum in the Lions' favor in the third quarter.

Justin Jefferson reiterated Thursday that he wants to sign a contract extension with the Minnesota Vikings as soon as possible, but the superstar receiver isn't sure if it's going to happen before the team's season opener Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers."Of course I would want a contract to be done," Jefferson said, according to ESPN's Kevin Seifert. "But at the end of the day, it is all up to them and what the ownership wants to do with that."Jefferson wouldn't reveal whether his representatives would stop negotiating a long-term deal when the regular season kicks off."I'm in a different situation," Jefferson added. "I've done something that no one has ever done in the history of the game. So my situation is a little bit different than everyone else's. Of course, I'm going into my fourth year, trying to talk about contract two years early. There's so many different parts that go in towards it. That's why I leave it up to my agent and just keep my mindset on the field."Jefferson has two years left on his rookie contract, which includes a base salary of $2.4 million in 2023. The 24-year-old is expected to reset the market among receivers when he signs a new deal. Tyreek Hill of the Miami Dolphins tops the position with a $30-million average annual salary. San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa is the highest-paid non-quarterback after signing an extension this week that will reportedly pay him $34 million annually.Jefferson has put on a show since Minnesota selected him 22nd overall in 2020. The LSU product led the NFL with 128 catches and 1,809 yards in 2022 en route to claiming the Offensive Player of the Year award.The three-time Pro Bowler's 4,825 receiving yards are the most in NFL history in the first three years of a player's career.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow became the NFL's highest-paid player ever on Thursday, agreeing to terms on a five-year, $275-million contract extension, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.The reported deal also includes $219 million guaranteed.Burrow's new $55-million average annual salary tops that of Justin Herbert, who's making $52.5 million per year after recently signing a new contract with the Los Angeles Chargers. Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens and Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles also inked market-resetting deals this past offseason.

The NFL is set to return with Thursday's season opener between the reigning champion Kansas City Chiefs and Detroit Lions, and theScore's football staff is kicking things off with playoff, Super Bowl, and awards predictions for this season.AFCThe Kansas City Chiefs winning their eighth straight AFC West title is the only consensus choice among our division-winner picks. However, the Jacksonville Jaguars aren't too far off, with all but two of our editors going with the clear favorites in the AFC South. While the Cincinnati Bengals are the oddsmakers' picks to win the AFC North for the third time in a row, we're buying the Baltimore Ravens hype with seven of 10 votes going to Lamar Jackson and Co. The AFC East will be the conference's most competitive division, but the Buffalo Bills still received the majority of the votes with six, while the arrival of Aaron Rodgers will propel the New York Jets from worst to first in the eyes of three of our team.NFCDespite losing Aaron Rodgers, five of our editors see the Green Bay Packers returning to the top of the NFC North. The Minnesota Vikings and the Detroit Lions each received two votes, while one editor believes the Chicago Bears will go from the NFL's worst team to the division title (notably, another two see a wild-card spot). Only one voter sees the Philadelphia Eagles being ousted from the NFC East throne, but everyone believes the Dallas Cowboys will make it to the playoffs again, one way or another. This time last year, some of our team picked the Seattle Seahawks to earn the No. 1 pick. Now, four editors see them edging out the San Francisco 49ers for the NFC West title, while five more believe they'll earn a wild-card berth. Lastly, the NFC South appears to be a battle between the New Orleans Saints (five votes) and Atlanta Falcons (four votes).Team drafting No. 1 overallCaleb Williams, welcome to the desert. With Kyler Murray out for at least the first four games, and a new coaching staff taking over one of the NFL's least impressive rosters, eight of 10 editors see the Arizona Cardinals earning the No. 1 pick in the 2024 draft. The Las Vegas Raiders and Tampa Bay Buccaneers wouldn't be major shocks to be picking first in April, either. Both clubs are coming off a disappointing 2022 campaign and have undergone major changes under center.AFC Championship GamePatrick Mahomes has yet to miss the AFC championship in his first five NFL seasons. Unsurprisingly, seven of 10 editors expect that streak to continue. But the Baltimore Ravens being tied for first with seven appearances in our predicted matchups is somewhat of a shock. The Buffalo Bills and Cincinnati Bengals have been the Chiefs' main rivals in recent years, but they only garnered two and three votes, respectively. The results don't match the hype with the Jets, who only made one predicted AFC championship matchup.NFC Championship GameThe NFC will be a three-horse race, according to our team. Outside of one pick for the Seattle Seahawks, the Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, and San Francisco 49ers dominate our NFC Championship Game predictions. The Eagles, who made eight of our matchups, have a convincing argument for the NFL's most talented roster. Believing in the Dallas Cowboys hasn't been a smart decision in decades, as they haven't made a conference title game since the 1995 season. But with the NFC lacking as many top-tier clubs as the AFC, six of our team sees that unenviable streak finally come to an end. The San Francisco 49ers are right there with the Cowboys, making five of 10 predicted matchups.Super Bowl LVIIIYou're going to enjoy this, Eagles fans. Not only is Philadelphia our most-predicted team to win Super Bowl LVIII, but three different predictions have the club lifting the Lombardi Trophy after getting revenge over the Chiefs. The majority also sees the Eagles at least making the final game of the year. Speaking of Kansas City, only one editor believes the reigning champions will be able to retain their title, while three others envision a second Super Bowl defeat for the Mahomes-Andy Reid duo. Although it may seem disrespectful for a team as good as the Chiefs, only eight teams have ever won back-to-back titles. Close behind the Eagles are the Ravens, who made four predicted Super Bowl matchups and won three. The Bengals and the 49ers are the only other teams to get a Super Bowl-winning vote, while more pain is coming for the Cowboys, who were picked as the loser of their two Super Bowl appearances.1st head coach firedSorry, Todd, you might as well start packing up your office now. After an underwhelming first season in charge of the Bucs in 2022 for Bowles, our team sees it as almost inevitable that he'll be the first head coach shown the door in 2023. The Buccaneers might not be the league's worst team, but most of the other bottom clubs have first-year head coaches, so Bowles is an obvious choice.Best and worst free-agent signingsAn underwhelming free-agent class means these picks lack the big-name talents of recent years. Three votes for Garoppolo to be the worst free-agent addition stands out, though. It makes sense: the veteran quarterback has a risk-averse style and a very long injury history. After a strong season with the Eagles, it's easy to understand why Hargrave is our most-liked free-agent addition. The 49ers know how to get the best out of defensive linemen, and Hargrave should get a ton of opportunities to wreak havoc with the likes of Nick Bosa drawing focus.Coach of the YearUnless a club dominates to an absurd degree, this award usually goes to the coach of the team that improves most from the previous year. That trend is reflected in our voting, with LaFleur (three votes) likely to get a lot of love (no pun intended) if the Packers make the playoffs without Rodgers. Smith is the only other coach to receive multiple votes, with those editors seeing him leading the Falcons to their first NFC South title since 2016.Rookies of the YearOpportunity is just as important as talent for those aiming to win rookie awards, and Robinson has the easiest path to instant stardom. Smith loves to ride his running game, so the super-talented Robinson will get a ton of work from Day 1. Plus, running backs have the simplest transition from college to the pros, making Robinson the runaway favorite. Defensively, Carter should get a lot of national spotlight thanks to playing on a Super Bowl favorite, though it might be a tall order for him to get the sack numbers that are usually required from the defensive linemen who win this award.Players of the YearParsons is already a star but we're predicting him to reach new heights in 2023. The pass-rusher, who finished second in DPOY voting in just his second season, was a near-unanimous selection. Meanwhile, we're betting McCaffrey will continue his red-hot form since joining the 49ers. Wilson and Pollard are intriguing picks. They've yet to produce at an All-Pro level, but both have a clear path to do so in 2023 thanks to Rodgers' arrival in New York and Ezekiel Elliott's departure from Dallas, respectively.MVPAs always, quarterbacks dominate the MVP predictions. However, they aren't locking out the board, with Jefferson earning one vote. It'd likely require Jefferson to become the first wideout to break 2,000 receiving yards, but if there's one receiver capable of doing so, it's the Vikings' star man. The quarterback votes were spread among the signal-callers most believe to be the elite players at the position. With a new offensive coordinator and improved weapons, Jackson is our favorite to earn his second career MVP award with three nominations. Meanwhile, Allen is the only other player to receive more than one vote in what should be a hotly contested race.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Kansas City Chiefs kicked off the 2023 season without two of their biggest stars.Superstar tight end Travis Kelce was ruled out before Thursday's game against the Detroit Lions due to a knee injury, the team announced.The Chiefs were also without their top defender, Chris Jones, as the defensive lineman is holding out while negotiating a lucrative long-term extension with the team. He was at Arrowhead Stadium in a suite to watch Thursday's contest, James Palmer of NFL Network reported.Kelce made a strong push to play, but the Chiefs ultimately decided to keep him sidelined for Week 1, sources told NFL reporter Jordan Schultz. Kelce hyperextended his knee Tuesday at practice.Widely considered the NFL's best tight end, the 33-year-old topped 1,000 yards for the seventh straight season in 2022 while setting career highs with 110 catches and 12 touchdown receptions.The Cincinnati product, whom the Chiefs drafted in the third round in 2013, hasn't missed a game due to injury since his rookie campaign.In his absence, Noah Gray will presumably be Kansas City's top tight end versus Detroit. He caught 28 passes for 299 yards and one touchdown last season.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Get ready for your season with theScore's 2023 Fantasy Football Draft Kit and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.Welcome to theScore Fantasy Football Podcast, hosted by Justin Boone.Find the show on Spotify, Apple, Google, and Stitcher.In this episode, Boone opens up the fantasy mailbag to answer your questions before Week 1.

Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Patrick Peterson is optimistic his team will be able to stop the San Francisco 49ers' explosive offense in Week 1."Obviously, we're gonna have to make sure that everybody tackles well," Peterson recently said on the "All Things Covered" podcast.He added: "We're hooked up on our coverage and make sure that we have sound communication at all times because there is some tell signs out there that tell us what plays we're gonna get from those guys in certain situations."Peterson didn't specify the flaws regarding San Francisco's offense, but the veteran defensive back is predicting he'll intercept quarterback Brock Purdy."When I get my pick Sunday, we'll talk about it," Peterson said.With Deebo Samuel, Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, and Co., the 49ers boast one of football's most dynamic offenses. San Francisco ranked sixth in total points in 2022. Purdy, who's expected to start in 2023 after finishing last season under center, threw only four interceptions in nine regular-season appearances.Peterson, 33, joined the Steelers this past offseason after spending the previous two campaigns with the Minnesota Vikings. The eight-time Pro Bowler racked up five interceptions in 2022, his highest single-season mark since 2012. He played his first 10 NFL seasons on the Arizona Cardinals.Pittsburgh's defense ranked 10th in points allowed last season.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Chandler Jones posted on Instagram on Wednesday night that the Raiders sent a local crisis response team to his home, according to ESPN's Paul Gutierrez. The posts have since been deleted.

Getting knocked out early in a survivor contest sucks. There's so much fun in plotting who to take all week long before sweating out your choice every Sunday.The problem is there's no such thing as a foolproof pick in the NFL. You have to plan accordingly to make it to the end.The world's largest survivor contest has been held at Circa Sportsbook in Las Vegas since 2020. There's been a multi-way tie each year despite thousands of entrants. You want to be in that position at the end of the season, both for the winnings and so you can keep playing.Every week until we get knocked out, we'll map two paths to make it to the end of the season undefeated. As long as our entries are still standing, we'll use the moneylines for our picks to show the odds of making it the distance traveled along the path. Once we're out, though, we're out.While we could provide a series of theoretical rules to follow - like "never take a road team" - a club's likelihood of winning each game is reflected in its moneyline. We can easily translate that into an implied win probability, which is listed in descending order in the chart below.Week 1 moneylinesTeamMoneylineImplied probabilityRavens-50083.3%Commanders-32076.2%Vikings-25071.4%Seahawks-24070.6%Jaguars-22068.8%Chiefs-22068.8%Eagles-20066.6%Broncos-19065.5%Falcons-18564.9%Cowboys-17563.6%Saints-16562.3%Chargers-15060.0%Bengals-14058.3%Bills-14058.3%49ers-13557.4%Bears-12054.5%Packers+10050.0%Steelers+11546.5%Jets+12045.5%Browns+12045.5%Dolphins+13043.5%Titans+14041.7%Giants+15040.0%Panthers+15539.2%Raiders+16038.5%Patriots+17037.0%Lions+18035.7%Colts+19034.5%Rams+20033.3%Buccaneers+21032.3%Cardinals+26027.8%Texans+38020.8%Survivor Path AThe Ravens are the obvious pick. You'll likely advance. However, you can use Baltimore versus the Colts in Week 3, at Arizona in Week 8, and against the Rams in Week 13. The only good opportunity to pick the Commanders is Sunday.You need to use 18 teams to get to the end of a survivor contest. Of the clubs on the edge of the top 18, only the Giants, Seahawks, Browns, and Bears face the Cardinals - the NFL's worst team - at home. That means you'll need to find a spot later in the season to use another mediocre squad against a team far more dangerous than Arizona. Plus, Josh Dobbs has only been with the Cardinals for a week.Pick: CommandersSurvivor Path BWe're looking to save Baltimore, and it's hard to trust the Vikings, Jaguars, or Seahawks to win outright in Week 1 despite being touchdown-sized favorites. So, let's take a shot with something theoretically riskier.As a general rule, choosing a team to cover a short spread is a better option than picking a bigger favorite where you like the underdog plus the points. It's too hard to thread that needle.The Falcons have a short spread against the Panthers in Week 1. While they play the Cardinals this season, Kyler Murray could return for that game in mid-November. Atlanta also hosts the Texans, who are comparable to the Panthers, in mid-October. However, you'd rather take the Falcons during Bryce Young's debut instead of against C.J. Stroud with a few games under his belt.Pick: FalconsMatt Russell is the lead betting analyst for theScore. If there's a bad beat to be had, Matt will find it. Find him on social media @mrussauthentic.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Find positional rankings, additional analysis, and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.theScore's Justin Boone was first overall in FantasyPros' Most Accurate Expert Competition in 2019 and finished among the top seven each of his last seven years in the contest. Follow the links below to see his rankings for Week 1.The final rankings will be released Sunday morning.Half PPR

Peyton Manning acknowledges that it's been a struggle to find signal-callers willing to appear on the upcoming season of the Netflix series "Quarterback."The Pro Football Hall of Famer, who's an executive producer on the show, told Julian Sancton of the Hollywood Reporter that multiple quarterbacks passed on the opportunity to star in the second season."To use a cheesy analogy, we're definitely in the two-minute drill here," Manning said in late August. "I'd love for someone to call us back and say, 'I want to do it.' I had three starting quarterbacks tell me no yesterday, so I'm swallowing my pride."The first season of "Quarterback" aired in July and followed Patrick Mahomes, Kirk Cousins, and Marcus Mariota during their 2022 campaigns. The eight episodes totaled 3.3 million views and 21.4 million hours viewed.The cast of the second season has yet to be announced, but several quarterbacks have publicly stated that they turned down the show, including Justin Fields, Joe Burrow, Jalen Hurts, Lamar Jackson, Dak Prescott, Trevor Lawrence, and Daniel Jones.Manning said he thinks some quarterbacks may view the show as a "distraction" and admitted that he himself likely would've said no to it as well when he was still playing."But," he added, "if a quarterback that I respected told me, 'Hey, trust me, we're going to do right by you, you are not going to regret it, we're going to cut out anything you don't want in there, you won't even know we're there,' then I probably would have said, 'Yeah, I might as well do it.'"Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Star running back Saquon Barkley is eager to put his contract dispute in the past ahead of the team's season opener against the Dallas Cowboys."Obviously, my contract stuff and everything was public and talked about," Barkley said Wednesday, according to team reporter Michael Eisen. "I would turn on the TV, and I'm seeing myself being talked about. But for me, all that's in the past. Like I said, once I made that mindset to come here, you've got to be mature about it. No hard feelings about it."So, now my back's against the wall again. I've got to go out there and prove it. I'm going to go out there and play my heart out, compete at a high level, and do what I do best, not only for myself but for my teammates."Barkley had expressed frustration with the Giants regarding negotiations over a long-term deal after he was franchise-tagged. The two-time Pro Bowler was one of three rushers to be tagged this offseason, along with Tony Pollard and Josh Jacobs.Barkley ultimately signed a one-year, $11-million contract in July.Although Barkley said this summer that he wants to remain a Giant for life, the tailback now just wants to focus on the upcoming season."I was public about it before, but I think I would be doing a disservice to myself to get too caught up in my future and worrying about what's going to happen and being a Giant for life," he said.Barkley posted a career-high 1,312 rushing yards on 295 carries, along with 10 rushing touchdowns, in 2022. He also added 57 receptions for 338 yards.The 26-year-old will attempt to make his mark in the Giants' opener when they host the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

We simulated the 2023 campaign in Madden NFL 24 ahead of the regular season starting to see how the year could go. Enjoy the comment section of this just-for-fun exercise.Note: Rosters were based on Week 1 projections. Players on IR came off based on real-world projections.AFC NorthTeamRecordOffenseRankDefenseRankPoint DifferentialBengals15-21st22nd143Ravens11-65th8th84Steelers9-822nd7th1Browns8-914th12th11BengalsJoe Burrow put up insane numbers, even for a video game. He completed 76% of his passes for 4,442 yards, 48 touchdowns, and just two interceptions.Team MVP: QB Joe Burrow - 4,442 passing yards, 48 TDs, 2 INTs, 302 rushing yards, 3 rushing TDs EA Madden NFL 24RavensWhile they couldn't catch Cincy's absurd campaign, the Ravens did well for themselves with Lamar Jackson throwing for over 3,300 yards and running for over 900 more.Team MVP: QB Lamar Jackson - 3,362 passing yards, 24 TDs, 6 INTs, 969 yards rushing yards, 7 TDsSteelersMike Tomlin continues to find ways to finish .500 or better, even in Madden. No one on the defense had outrageous sack production, but all three of Larry Ogunjobi, Cam Heyward, and T.J. Watt finished with 14-plus tackles for loss.Team MVP - DL Larry Ogunjobi - 53 tackles, 19 TFLs, 5.5 sacksBrownsNick Chubb was predictably the engine for Cleveland's offense, racking up over 1,800 total yards and 17 total touchdowns. Linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah earned team MVP with all sorts of production. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough to get the Browns back to the playoffs.Team MVP: LB Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah - 110 tackles, 5 TFLs, 0.5 sacks, 2 INTsAFC SouthTeamRecordOffense RankDefense RankPoint DifferentialTitans13-4T-9th2nd108Jaguars9-8T-17th11th5Colts6-1126th24th-74Texans6-11T-28th9th-50TitansDerrick Henry sees your "old running backs suck" argument and runs right through it. He had another excellent rushing season and the defense showed out to stun the league as the Titans went 13-4.Team MVP: RB Derrick Henry - 325 carries, 1,795 yards, 14 TDs, 18 receptions, 200 yards EA Madden NFL 24JaguarsTrevor Lawrence had a similar campaign to his 2022 season with 3,769 passing yards, 27 TDs, and nine interceptions, and Calvin Ridley made a solid debut with the team (79 catches/977 yards/4 TDs). Defensively, Foye Oluokun and Darious Williams were standouts.Team MVP: CB Darious Williams - 86 tackles, 2 TFLs, 0.5 sacks, 4 INTs, 5 PBUsColtsYear 1 for Anthony Richardson was a mixed bag. Like Peyton Manning before him, he led the league in interceptions, tossing 24. But he also had 3,443 yards and 20 TDs through the air and another 437 yards and four touchdowns rushing.Team MVP: DL DeForest Buckner - 69 tackles, 21 TFLs, 12.5 sacksTexansWill Anderson led the team with six sacks, C.J. Stroud had 22 touchdown passes, and the Texans finished with six wins. Those aren't terrible debut seasons for a team that's widely expected to be in contention for the No. 1 pick in next year's draft.Team MVP: WR Robert Woods - 84 receptions, 1,118 yards, 13 TDsAFC EastTeamRecordOffense RankDefense RankPoint DifferentialBills9-812th6th51Dolphins7-1021stT-20th-35Patriots7-1016th32nd-67Jets7-108th16th27BillsThings did not go to plan all around the AFC East, but the Bills secured the division crown with a top-five offense and defense in terms of yardage. Von Miller's 16 sacks or Stefon Diggs' 107 receptions, 1,460 yards, and nine touchdowns could've easily earned team MVP.Team MVP: QB Josh Allen - 4,449 passing yards, 28 TDs, 9 INTs, 526 rushing yards, 3 TDsDolphinsMaybe the biggest positive surprise from this letdown of a year for Miami was Cedrick Wilson's 67/822/8 receiving line. The biggest negative surprise could go to any of Bradley Chubb (2.5 sacks), Jaelan Phillips (one sack), or Jaylen Waddle (less than 1,000 yards, only five TDs).Team MVP: WR Tyreek Hill - 74 receptions, 1,104 yards, 5 TDsPatriotsEzekiel Elliott had a productive, if not terribly efficient, first campaign in Foxborough. The longtime Cowboy had 1,237 yards and nine scores on 302 carries. Mac Jones threw a career-high 30 touchdown passes but also had 14 interceptions.Team MVP: LB Marte Mapu - 73 total tackles, 4 TFLs, 5 INTsJetsAaron Rodgers got closer to his old MVP self in his first season in New York, but the team failed to live up to its lofty aspirations. Rogers gets the team MVP, but Quinnen Williams' 10 sacks and 13 TFLs deserve a mention.Team MVP: QB Aaron Rodgers - 4,204 passing yards, 40 TDs, 8 INTsAFC WestTeamRecordOffense RankDefense RankPoint DifferentialChargers12-56th4th106Chiefs11-64thT-20th54Raiders10-77th13th51Broncos8-915thT-25th-23ChargersKhalil Mack (16.5 sacks, 11 TFLs) and Joey Bosa (15 sacks, 15 TFLs) deserve shoutouts on the defensive side of the ball, but it's the Chargers' offense that really took off. Austin Ekeler had just under 1,600 total yards with 17 total scores and Keenan Allen put up an 84/1,270/11 receiving line.Team MVP: QB Justin Herbert - 3,866 passing yards, 26 TDs, 3 INTs, 477 rushing yards, 4 TDsChiefsPatrick Mahomes continued to show that he's an alien despite the lack of a division title. Isiah Pacheco's 1,123 yards and 10 touchdowns were a nice complement to Mahomes' aerial assault, but the defensive struggled to stop opponents consistently.Team MVP: QB Patrick Mahomes - 4,116 passing yards, 41 TDs, 3 INTs, 325 rushing yards, 2 TDs EA Madden NFL 24RaidersJosh Jacobs took home his second consecutive rushing title as the Raiders enjoyed a surprise playoff-caliber season. Davante Adams was their unquestioned top receiver with 82 catches, 1,143 yards, and 13 touchdowns, including 379 yards after the catch.Team MVP: RB Josh Jacobs - 293 carries, 1,872 yards, 15 TDs, 22 receptions, 191 yardsBroncosDespite missing the playoffs and owning a losing record, an 8-9 finish can't be too disappointing for Denver after last year's dumpster fire. Russell Wilson still has some work to do to recapture his form, though, after throwing 18 interceptions.Team MVP: RB Javonte Williams - 257 carries, 1,025 yards, 8 TDs, 31 receptions, 259 yards, 1 TDNFC NorthTeamRecordOffense RankDefense RankPoint DifferentialPackers9-811th27th6Lions7-10T-28th23rd-88Vikings5-1220thT-17th-31Bears1-1632nd28th-135PackersThe Packers continue to own the North even after Aaron Rodgers' departure. Jordan Love had 3,586 yards and 23 touchdowns, both of which are solid, but also 20 interceptions. Interestingly, Green Bay was 6-0 in division games, making the team 3-8 against the rest of its foes.Team MVP: RB Aaron Jones - 317 carries, 1,547 yards, 15 TDs, 17 receptions, 140 yardsLionsDetroit failed to live up to its lofty expectations and finished a below-average 7-10. Jared Goff's astonishing regression (3,189 yards, 11 TDs, 15 INTs) is the biggest culprit.Team MVP: EDGE Aidan Hutchinson - 60 tackles, 11 TFLs, 12.5 sacksVikingsKirk Cousins, like several other passers, had an outstanding TD-to-INT ratio at 24-to-4. Expectations might not be sky-high, but a 5-12 record is quite the fall from grace after last year's 13-4 finish.Team MVP: WR Justin Jefferson - 131 receptions, 1,477 yards, 7 TDsBearsCongratulations to the Bears on the league's worst record, worst offense, and a bottom-five defense. Justin Fields' below-average 2,600 yards, 14 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions through the air weren't elevated enough by his 715 yards and five touchdowns on the ground to lift Chicago out of the NFL's basement.Team MVP: CB Jaylon Johnson - 100 tackles, 4 TFLs, 0.5 sacks, 2 INTs, 12 PBUsNFC SouthPanthersTeamRecordOffense RankDefense RankPoint DifferentialPanthers12-524th1st42Falcons9-8T-17th14th-6Buccaneers8-927th3rd4Saints7-10T-9th30th-25Derrick Brown (12 sacks), Brian Burns (10.5 sacks), and Frankie Luvu (six sacks) got after quarterbacks, Jaycee Horn hauled in five interceptions, and team MVP Shaq Thompson was all over the field for the league's No. 1 defense.Team MVP: LB Shaq Thompson - 124 tackles, 6 TFLs, 1.5 sacks, 3 INTs, 17 PBUs EA Madden NFL 24FalconsThe digital version of Arthur Smith remembered to use Kyle Pitts in this simulation, with the tight end posting 81 catches, 1,034 yards, and four touchdowns in his third season.Team MVP: RB Bijan Robinson - 301 carries, 1,290 yards, 6 TDs, 21 receptions, 219 yards, 5 TDsBuccaneersMike Evans' streak of consecutive 1,000-yard seasons was snapped. The veteran wideout had just 865 yards and 10 touchdowns on 66 catches as the Bucs floundered in the first season of their post-Tom Brady era.Team MVP: CB Jamel Dean - 75 tackles, 1 TFL, 0.5 sacks, 5 INTs, 7 PBUsSaintsNew Orleans' offense performed, with Derek Carr earning the honor of the club's best player, but the defense provided about as much resistance as a wet paper towel.Team MVP: QB Derek Carr - 4,038 passing yards, 33 TDs, 10 INTs, 320 rushing yards, 3 TDsNFC EastTeamRecordOffense RankDefense RankPoint DifferentialCowboys11-63rd19th75Eagles11-613th15th9Commanders10-719th10th0Giants8-925thT-17th-58CowboysDallas put up excellent offensive numbers despite Tony Pollard playing in just six contests. CeeDee Lamb (96 receptions/1,293 yards/12 TDs) benefited most from passer Dak Prescott's 4,679/44/15 season, but the team's top player - and the league's top sack artist in this simulation - lined up on the defensive side of the ball.Team MVP: EDGE Micah Parsons - 78 tackles, 13 TFLs, 22 sacks EA Madden NFL 24EaglesPhilly regressed a bit after last year's juggernaut regular season, but it still looked like a legit contender. Although Jalen Hurts took home the team's MVP, Darius Slay, DeVonta Smith, and D'Andre Swift earned consideration with strong outings.Team MVP: QB Jalen Hurts - 3,667 passing yards, 22 TDs, 8 INTs, 144 carries, 683 rushing yards, 12 TDsCommandersChase Young managed to play in all 17 games and led the team with 10.5 sacks. Sam Howell's solid debut season as a starter (3,297 yards/26 TDs/17 INTs) was enough to get the team to the playoffs.Team MVP: RB Brian Robinson - 275 carries, 1,025 yards, 12 TDs, 28 receptions, 249 yards, 1 TDGiantsThe G-Men were happy to have Saquon Barkley on the field all season, even if his receiving production was mysteriously scarce and the team missed the playoffs. Kayvon Thibodeaux's 63 total tackles, 18 TFLs, and 6.5 sacks deserve mention as one of the defense's top playmakers.Team MVP: RB Saquon Barkley - 275 carries, 1,435 yards, 12 TDs, 11 receptions, 27 yardsNFC West49ersTeamRecordOffense RankDefense RankPoint Differential49ers12-52nd5th156Rams6-1123rd29th-82Seahawks4-1330thT-25th-105Cardinals4-1331st31st-153Brock Purdy (3,507 yards/32 TDs/7 INTs) built on last season's success, Brandon Aiyuk recorded 1,093 yards and 11 touchdowns, and multiple defenders had good sack and interception numbers.Team MVP: RB Christian McCaffrey - 285 carries, 1,591 yards, 12 TDs, 29 receptions, 246 yards, 1 TDRamsPicking between Cooper Kupp (110 catches/1,590 yards/12 TDs) and Aaron Donald was tough, but Donald ultimately gets the nod after another stellar personal season.Team MVP: DL Aaron Donald - 81 tackles, 23 TFLs, 14.5 sacksSeahawksThe Seahawks tumbled back to earth after a surprisingly strong 2022. At least Bobby Wagner continued to defy Father Time in his return to Seattle.Team MVP: LB Bobby Wagner - 116 tackles, 6 TFLs, 4 sacks, 3 INTs, 7 PBUsCardinalsMarquise Brown (66 receptions/888 yards/6 TDs) was the team's top offensive player, but Budda Baker's stat-sheet stuffing was more valuable in a predictably down year for the Cardinals.Team MVP: S Budda Baker - 79 tackles, 4 INTs, 5 PBUsPlayoffs EA Madden NFL 24AFC wild card

The Arizona Cardinals are expected to start Josh Dobbs at quarterback in Sunday's opener against the Washington Commanders, sources told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.Rookie fifth-rounder Clayton Tune will act as the backup. Arizona will continue to evaluate the position each week, Rapoport adds.The Cardinals acquired Dobbs from the Cleveland Browns on Aug. 24. Although Dobbs only has a few weeks of experience in the club's system, Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing worked with him in Cleveland as the quarterbacks coach.Dobbs has experience being thrown into the lineup on short notice. He made his first career start for the Tennessee Titans last season eight days after being signed following an injury to Ryan Tannehill.In two starts for the Titans, the 28-year-old finished with 411 yards and two touchdowns against two interceptions while completing 58.8% of his passes.Kyler Murray will miss at least the first four games of the season after being kept on the physically unable to perform list to start the campaign due to an ACL injury he suffered in Week 14 last year.Colt McCoy was regarded as the favorite to take over for Arizona after starting six games and appearing in six more for the NFC West club over the last two seasons. However, he was a surprise inclusion in the team's cuts down to 53 players.Prior to Rapoport's report, Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon said earlier Wednesday that he was going to keep his quarterback decision a secret."I ain't telling you anything," he said, according to NFL.com's Nick Shook."I trust our guys," Gannon added. "Media's the media. That's your guys' job, I understand that, but we're gonna do what's best for our football team as we see fit and try to execute that."Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Patrick Mahomes is the reigning MVP and favorite to repeat in 2023. He's the undisputed best player in football, having already cemented himself as a future Hall of Famer, but that doesn't always equate to having the best season.Four of the last five MVP winners have been either Mahomes or Aaron Rodgers. Lamar Jackson captured the fifth. Although Rodgers did it in 2020 and 2021, winning back-to-back MVPs is a rarity. It hadn't happened since Peyton Manning's feat in 2008-09. Fading Mahomes' greatness usually ends in regret, but history says a new winner is coming.The next three favorites - Joe Burrow, Josh Allen, and Jalen Hurts - have been knocking on the door of an MVP season. Hurts finished second in MVP voting last year. Allen finished third, and Burrow finished fourth. So, who among them is the next MVP?The unofficial requirements are that the winner must be a quarterback - only one non-QB has won in the last 16 years - and must lead his team to one of the best records. He also needs to be among the top of the league in most relevant statistical categories.NFL regular season MVP oddsPlayer OddsPatrick Mahomes+600Joe Burrow+700Josh Allen+800Jalen Hurts+1000Justin Herbert+1000Lamar Jackson+1400Aaron Rodgers+1600Trevor Lawrence+1600Justin Fields+2000Tua Tagovailoa+2000Dak Prescott+2500Best BetsJalen Hurts +1000Hurts had a legitimate claim to the MVP last season if he hadn't got hurt in the final weeks of the season. Picking the Eagles to win the Super Bowl - like I did - is also betting on Hurts to have another monster season.The former second-round pick has improved every season he's been in the league. Many of Hurts' detractors think his success is more about his supporting cast than his actual talent. But that's mostly irrelevant to his MVP campaign because his incredible offensive teammates are still in Philadelphia.There isn't a better wide receiver duo in the NFL than A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. Pair those weapons with tight end Dallas Goedert and Hurts once again has options all over the field.Philadelphia also has the best offensive line in football, according to PFF. Some of the other candidates like Mahomes, Allen, and Jackson are dual-threat quarterbacks, but not as dynamic with their legs as Hurts, who led all quarterbacks with 13 rushing touchdowns last year.He was fourth in total touchdowns and ninth in total yards but played fewer games than everyone ahead of him. Hurts' instinctual gift and aggressive nature can also be his greatest weaknesses. Because of how much he runs, he's more susceptible to injury - which manifested itself last season when he hurt his shoulder.If Hurts can stay healthy for a full campaign, he'll certainly be in contention. The MVP is almost always on one of the best teams in football, at least record-wise. The Eagles fit the bill, with the most complete roster in football and the second-best odds to win the Super Bowl.This is the Eagles' year for runner-up redemption, both in the MVP race and in the Super Bowl.Trevor Lawrence +1600Anyone who's been following us throughout the NFL preseason knows I'm the conductor of the Trevor Lawrence hype train.People questioned whether Lawrence could be a bust after his first year in the league. However, that year should be erased from the record books with a beyond-incompetent Urban Meyer running the show.From Year 1 to Year 2, Lawrence more than doubled his touchdowns, cut his interceptions in half, threw almost 500 more yards on fewer attempts, and increased his completion percentage by 7%.Head coach Doug Pederson's brilliance working with quarterbacks was a huge reason for the drastic turnaround. Pederson turned Carson Wentz into an MVP candidate in their second year paired together. He's about to do the same with Lawrence.The Clemson standout needs to improve his decision making, but as he enters his third year in the league, there shouldn't be any concern as he continues to grow.The Jaguars lost to the Chiefs in the divisional round in 2022-23, a massive improvement from a three-win effort the season prior.Even in a loaded AFC, Jacksonville has the talent to earn a top seed in the conference, especially in a weak division. Lawrence has surrounding playmakers in running back Travis Etienne Jr., wide receiver Christian Kirk, and newly-acquired Calvin Ridley.Lawrence is on a trajectory to become the generational talent he was praised to be as a prospect at Clemson. This is the season he enters the conversation as one of the NFL's best quarterbacks. As the ninth favorite at 16-1 odds, Lawrence is a great value bet.Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X, formally known as Twitter, @soshtry for more betting coverage.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Tennessee Titans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins is ready to prove his doubters wrong.Hopkins was released this offseason after spending the past three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals. His tenure was marred by injuries and a suspension for failing a performance-enhancing drug test. Despite being a three-time first-team All-Pro wideout, the 31-year-old struggled to find suitors for his services."There were some teams that I had on my list that I gave them calls and they didn't give a call back," Hopkins told GQ's Clay Skipper."Detroit Lions, they didn't want me. Dallas Cowboys didn't want me. Giants didn't want me. Shit. Who else ain't want me? San Fran ain't want me."The five-time Pro Bowler believes that his age played a factor in the lack of offers when he became a free agent. But Hopkins believes that he brings plenty of game experience to the table."It ain't too many people out there that can say honestly that they can lock me down, guard me for a full four quarters," he said.Hopkins ultimately agreed to terms with the Titans. He signed a two-year, $26-million contract to return to the AFC South after beginning his career as a member of the Houston Texans.Hopkins joined the Cardinals after being traded by the Texans in 2020. He recorded 221 catches, 2,696 yards, and 17 touchdowns during his time with in Arizona.The Clemson product flourished after the Texans selected him 27th overall in the 2013 draft. Hopkins posted five 1,000-yard seasons from 2013-2019 and sits second in most of the franchise's career receiving categories, including receptions (632), receiving yards (8,602), and TD catches (54).Set to embark on his 11th NFL campaign, Hopkins is expected to mentor a young receiving corps for the Titans that features Treylon Burks and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine. Tennessee's big free-agent addition is expected to be a key weapon for quarterback Ryan Tannehill after the club missed the playoffs with a 7-10 record in 2022.Hopkins is "very grateful" regarding his decision to sign with the Titans, and he's using the lack of interest from several teams as motivation ahead of the next chapter in his career."I can't wait to play 'em and, honestly, try my best to crush they ass," he said.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

This is the time of the year when football fans are bursting with anticipation. The start of the 2023 NFL season is only a day away.The hundreds of different outcomes from an unpredictable 18-week regular season are why NFL football dominates nearly half of the sports calendar. It's also why bettors love speculating on how a season will unfold.Let's take a look at what outcomes bettors are hoping for most from the 2023 campaign.All data provided is from theScore Bet and Barstool Sportsbook.Super Bowl winnerTeamOdds% of bets% of handleEagles+65010.4%17.3%Bengals+100010.4%11.5%Bills+8509.4%7.1%Chiefs+5509.0%16.5%Jets+15007.7%7.6%Bettors have made the Eagles their clear choice to win the Super Bowl LVIII after last year's heartbreaking loss to the Chiefs. Philly has garnered 10.4% of the bets - the same amount as the Bengals - while collecting 17.3% of the handle (total money wagered) to lead the Super Bowl favorite Chiefs in that category.It's obvious why the Eagles are a popular pick. Jalen Hurts proved last year he's an MVP-caliber talent who can lead a loaded roster deep into the playoffs. Philadelphia is also in what many consider to be the far weaker conference, making its path to the Big Dance a lot less stressful.Bettors who believe an AFC team will be crowned champions favor the Bengals. However, the Bills, Chiefs, and Jets are all in the top five in terms of percentage of bets, highlighting the fact that many believe the majority of the NFL's best teams reside in the AFC.It's interesting to note that the Chiefs have received 9% of the bets but have accumulated the second-most handle at 16.5%. A large reason for this is they're the shortest priced at +550, which tends to mean recreational betters make fewer bets while those willing to back the favorite offer bigger wagers.MVP winnerPlayerOdds% of bets% of handleJalen Hurts+100013.9%14%Justin Fields+20009.4%8.7%Trevor Lawrence+16008.7%6.6%Lamar Jackson+14008.2%7.0%Aaron Rodgers+16006.8%8.2%Patrick Mahomes+6005.5%13%Joe Burrow+7005.8%11.5%The love for the Eagles this season pours over into the MVP market, as Hurts leads the way in both the number of bets and handle.His +1000 price is a tad longer than Mahomes and Burrow, making him appear like a better value bet than the other two front-runners.Because they're the favorites, you'll see Mahomes and Burrow well down the list in terms of the number of bets but right near the top in terms of handle. Casual bettors tend to be willing to take a longer shot - someone like Justin Fields (+2000) or Trevor Lawrence (+1600) - rather than back the favorite for a lower payout.Speaking of Fields, the Bears quarterback surprisingly sits second on the list for most bets. His +2000 odds are likely the driving force behind this action. However, bettors must also be hoping he can take a giant leap forward in his passing ability in Year 3 - much like Hurts did - and lead the Bears to a playoff birth.In fact, that's exactly what bettors are hoping for. Fields' passing yard total for the season is set at 2,925.5, and a whopping 90.6% of the wagers have been placed on the over.The Bears are +7500 to win the Super Bowl, +400 to win the NFC North, and +170 - an implied probability of 37% - to make the playoffs.Offensive Rookie of the YearPlayerOdds% of bets% of handleJahmyr Gibbs+90019.0%17.1%Bijan Robinson+26015.5%18.4%Zay Flowers+150013.1%13.5%Anthony Richardson+70012.5%14.7%Bryce Young+5006.2%9.7%Five players dominate the Offensive Rookie of the Year market in both bets and handle, led by Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs.Gibbs was a surprise selection 12th overall, but no one questioned his talent. He should slide right into D'Andre Swift's role from last year as a dynamic playmaker out of the backfield. The fact that he'll split carries with David Montgomery hasn't scared away bettors.Bijan Robinson, the first running back selected in 2023, is the favorite to win the award. Yet the former Texas standout's short odds haven't deterred bettors as he's accumulated the most handle.First overall pick Bryce Young is the second favorite behind Robinson, but Anthony Richardson is the most popular bet among first-year quarterbacks. The Texans' C.J. Stroud, who's +900 to win the award, didn't crack the top five in either category.Here's more data on who bettors are hoping to lead the NFL in three offensive categories.Most passing yardsPlayerOdds% of bets% of handleJustin Herbert+40032.0%27.9%Trevor Lawrence+200010.4%6.2%Joe Burrow+9009.8%7.7%Patrick Mahomes+2758.9%39.5%Josh Allen+10005.7%2.0%Most rushing yardsPlayerOdds% of bets% of handleBijan Robinson+75015.2%19.7%Nick Chubb+42513.6%20.7%Derrick Henry+85010.7%10.1%Tony Pollard+16009.1%7.8%Saquon Barkley+15007.6%7.9%Most receiving yardsPlayerOdds% of bets% of handleJustin Jefferson+50017.9%26.0%Tyreek Hill+85014.4%16.0%Garrett Wilson+160010.5%8.3%Chris Olave+25009.7%11.9%Calvin Ridley+35007.6%6.6%Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Lions head coach Dan Campbell will have a speech ready Thursday night as his team is expecting its best season since the heyday of Barry Sanders and Wayne Fontes. The latter was so recognizable at the time that he showed up in the first few minutes of 1996's Cameron Crowe football-adjacent film "Jerry Maguire." Tom Cruise's character writes a mission statement that doesn't go all that well at first (he gets fired), but he eventually piles up enough victories - re-signing his top client, getting the girl (and the kid with the spiky hair), building back his career - that it all works out in the end.I can't promise that the Lions will have a fairytale ending to their season, or that they'll win in Kansas City, or that our bets for the season opener will cash. But if we stick to our mission statement, we'll bank enough wins each Thursday night to be shown the money by Week 18.I think ... the Lions will be able score on the ChiefsAs discussed in the round-robin underdog moneyline parlay, the cornerstone of the Chiefs' defense is Chris Jones, who tallied 15.5 sacks from the middle of the defensive line last season. Jones put up a Defensive Player of the Year-level campaign similar to Aaron Donald in his prime, and now he's channelling his inner Rod Tidwell and wants to get paid like Donald. So, barring a miracle, he won't be playing. When Jones is out of the lineup, the Chiefs' defense has given up 31.75 points against any offense with a pulse since 2019.We also like the Lions' offense and the chances they score the most points in the league this year. This feels like an opportunity to start that effort, even though the real beginning of this chapter of Lions football probably began when they averaged 29.4 points in the final nine games of last year.If Travis Kelce isn't able to play, that increases the possibility of an extra possession or two for Detroit when the Chiefs can't convert third downs with the same efficiency to which they've grown accustomed. More possessions and shorter fields lower the bar for what's required from Jared Goff and company to clear a team total that hasn't changed despite the good chance that two stars will be out for K.C.Pick: Lions team total over 23.5 (-115)I think ... someone has to catch easy passes for MahomesThe Chiefs came out of their 2022 bye week with a plan against the Titans - throw the ball. Mahomes did so 68 times, as they felt that's how they could beat Tennessee in Week 9 before going back to a more balanced attack the next week. Why is this important? Because from Week 1-9, Isiah Pacheco maxed out at 30% of the snaps. For the rest of the season, Pacheco never had fewer than 35% of the share. In meaningful games between Week 10 and 17, his receiving yard totals were 17, 16, 23, 11, 32, and 18. None of those totals are lower than 10.5, which is his receiving yardage total for Thursday night.With Kelce likely out, and the explosive Pacheco in his second year in Andy Reid's offense, look for him to help bail out Patrick Mahomes with short targets that could go a long way but don't have to to go over.Pick: Isiah Pacheco over 10.5 receiving yards (-110)I'll say ... Ben Johnson remembers where he came fromIf you weren't excited by Brock Wright and Shane Zylstra last season, you weren't alone. But they had most of the 12 touchdowns caught by Lions' tight ends last season. Their anonymity didn't stop Goff from finding them in the end zone, and the Lions spent the 34th overall pick on Sam LaPorta.Goff had never thrown more than six touchdowns to tight ends before last year, which tells me that these scoring plays are more about offensive coordinator Ben Johnson's design than Goff's tendencies. Johnson, the Lions' former tight ends coach, now has a high-investment player at the position to draw up plays for.Pick: Sam LaPorta anytime touchdown (+275)Matt Russell is the lead betting analyst for theScore. If there's a bad beat to be had, Matt will find it. Find him on social media @mrussauthentic.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Cue "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" as we go back to school to get ready for a new NFL season!Beginning with team-by-team betting outlooks and moving into our best bets for season win totals, statistical leaders, award winners, and team futures, we'll have you ready for Week 1 of the 2023 NFL season and beyond. Check in here daily for updates!Team-by-team betting outlooksAFC West

San Francisco 49ers star pass-rusher Nick Bosa is set to become the NFL's highest-paid defender after agreeing to terms on a five-year, $170-million extension, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter.The 25-year-old, who'd been holding out in an effort to reach a new contract, will reportedly get $122.5 million guaranteed. He also lands the biggest contract ever given to a non-quarterback with an annual average salary of $34 million, surpassing the three-year, $95-million extension Aaron Donald signed in June 2022.Bosa was entering the final year of his rookie contract, which would've paid out $17.8 million in 2023, per Spotrac.The Niners are expected to waive all the fines that Bosa incurred during his holdout, which lasted through training camp and the preseason, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.The star pass-rusher is expected to rejoin the team soon with its season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers slated for Sunday."He'd have to have a beer belly and be out of shape," Shanahan said when asked if it's possible Bosa won't play versus Pittsburgh, according to NBC Sports Bay Area's Matt Maiocco.Bosa becomes the latest 49ers standout to earn a lucrative extension over the past few offseasons, following George Kittle, Fred Warner, and Deebo Samuel.The 6-foot-4, 266-pound Bosa blossomed into one the league's most prolific pass-rushers during 2022. He led the league with 18.5 sacks while also piling up 51 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles to earn a first-team All-Pro nod. Bosa was also named to his third Pro Bowl.San Francisco selected Bosa with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2019 draft. In his first season, he recorded 47 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, and nine sacks and was named Defensive Rookie of the Year. The 49ers star rebounded from a torn ACL suffered during 2020 to pick up 21 TFLs and 15.5 sacks in 2021.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford addressed his wife's recent comments, saying Wednesday he's had no trouble connecting with his younger teammates.Stafford's wife, Kelly, recently said on an episode of her podcast that the 35-year-old passer was having difficulty jelling with his young teammates. She said Matthew told her, "I feel like I can't connect." Kelly later expressed regret, saying, "I put my foot in my mouth."Matthew, who's entering his 15th NFL season, downplayed the situation."I love coming to work. I love working with these guys. And they all know that," he said Wednesday, according to ESPN's Sarah Barshop.Stafford added: "I think those guys understand where I'm coming from. They see me come in this building every single day and know how I go to work, know how I interact with everybody, and we didn't really think too much about it, to be honest with you."The veteran said he didn't have to address Kelly's comments in the locker room."I'm not too worried about it," the signal-caller said. "Nobody in the locker room's too worried about it, I can promise you that. We've completely moved on. Not that we've ever really stopped to think about it."Stafford, Aaron Donald, and Cooper Kupp are among five players over 30 on the Rams, who boast one of the league's youngest rosters. Los Angeles' initial 53-man roster this year featured 14 rookies, including fifth-round wide receiver Puka Nacua and tight end Davis Allen.Kupp has been ruled out for L.A.'s opener against the Seattle Seahawks due to a hamstring injury.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Dallas Cowboys star Micah Parsons said he's excited about San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa signing a record contract extension that reset the market among NFL defenders."Super happy for Nick Bosa, man," Parsons said Wednesday, according to Garrett Podell of CBS Sports. "He really showed why he was the best player in the league last year. It gives you something to chase, and not in terms of his contract, but in terms of how great he was. If you study his mindset, how patient he was and how he just let the game come to him, it's really something to look for."Bosa reportedly agreed to terms with the 49ers on a five-year contract worth $170 million Wednesday, ending a lengthy holdout days before Week 1. The 49ers star, who beat out Parsons for the Defensive Player of the Year award in 2022, will earn $34 million per year as part of his new reported deal, the largest amount ever given to a non-quarterback in the NFL.Parsons is eligible for his own extension next year, and his new deal could reset the market again. However, the 24-year-old says he's more focused on topping Bosa as the league's best defender."He knows that I'm coming for him," Parsons said of Bosa and the race for the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year. "He even said to my ears, like, 'I won this year,' and he's like, 'I know you'll be coming for next year.' I said, 'You're damn right.' It's going to be a good chase. Not only (me and Bosa), you also have (Las Vegas Raiders defensive end) Maxx Crosby, too, and those guys are all really good."Parsons was the front-runner for the DPOY early in the 2022 campaign before Bosa caught fire in the second half. Parsons, the 2021 Defensive Rookie of the Year, has finished second for the top individual award among defenders in both of his NFL seasons.The Penn State product, whom Dallas selected 12th overall in 2021, finished 2022 with 65 tackles (13 for loss) and 13.5 sacks, five fewer than Bosa.The Bosa-led 49ers eliminated the Cowboys in the playoffs in each of the last two seasons. Dallas visits San Francisco in Week 5 this year.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Get ready for your season with theScore's 2023 Fantasy Football Draft Kit and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.Welcome to theScore Fantasy Football Podcast, hosted by Justin Boone.Find the show on Spotify, Apple, Google, and Stitcher.In this episode, Deepak Chona of Sports Med Analytics joins Boone to discuss the latest injury updates heading into the regular season.

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp won't play Week 1 against the Seattle Seahawks due to a hamstring injury, head coach Sean McVay announced Wednesday, according to Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic.Kupp recently said he was on track to play L.A.'s opener before suffering a setback that had him listed as day-to-day. The 2021 Offensive Player of the Year was in Minnesota this week to see a specialist for his latest injury."Not much more information ... just dealing with some soft-tissue stuff," McVay said Wednesday.The Rams aren't ruling out the possibility of placing Kupp on injured reserve."We want him to be out there, but we don't want to rush it," McVay added, according to Gary Klein of the Los Angeles Times.Kupp's absence is a huge blow to a Rams team that went 5-12 last year. The 30-year-old has led the club in receiving in five of the last six seasons, including the last four.The 2017 third-round pick posted a historic campaign in 2021 after leading the NFL in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdown catches en route to earning a first-team All-Pro berth. Kupp couldn't replicate that production in 2022, though, as an ankle injury limited him to only nine games. He caught 75 passes for 812 yards and six touchdowns during the 2022 campaign.With Kupp ruled out, Van Jefferson, Tutu Atwell, and Ben Skowronek will presumably be quarterback Matthew Stafford's main wide receivers against the Seahawks. The Rams' offense also features tight end Tyler Higbee, who led the team with 108 targets in 2022.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll anticipates that rookie wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba will play in Sunday's opener against the Los Angeles Rams, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.Smith-Njigba underwent wrist surgery after suffering a fracture in the Seahawks' preseason matchup against the Dallas Cowboys on Aug. 19.The first-round selection was expected to be sidelined for three-to-four weeks but was able to resume practicing on a limited basis 10 days later.Smith-Njigba is set to be the Seahawks' third receiver behind DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. He starred at Ohio State in college, racking up 1,606 receiving yards and nine touchdowns in 2021 before an injury-hit 2022 campaign.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow declared himself "ready to go" on Wednesday ahead of Sunday's Week 1 matchup with the Cleveland Browns, according to Kelsey Conway of The Enquirer.Burrow suffered a calf strain in late July but was able to practice fully on Wednesday following a limited return to action last week.Bengals head coach Zac Taylor was more cautious than Burrow when discussing his star's status earlier Wednesday."He looks good," Taylor said, according to Ben Baby of ESPN. "I think it's wise to take it day to day right now."Burrow led Cincinnati to a 12-4 record and a second straight AFC North title last year in his third NFL season. He finished the campaign with 4,475 yards (fourth-most in the NFL) and 35 touchdowns (tied for second-most) against 12 interceptions.The 26-year-old is in line for a potentially market-resetting contract extension but said it's "the last thing I'm thinking about right now," according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

USC star quarterback Caleb Williams could remain in college instead of declaring to go pro if he doesn't like the situation of his NFL home next year.The reigning Heisman Trophy winner is considered the consensus choice to be the top overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft. Caleb's father, Carl Williams, said his son could play another year for the Trojans if they feel uncomfortable with the team that could select him in the draft."The funky thing about the NFL draft process is, he'd almost be better off not being drafted than being drafted first," Carl Williams told GQ's Sam Schube. "The system is completely backwards. The way the system is constructed, you go to the worst possible situation. The worst possible team, the worst organization in the league-because of their desire for parity-gets the first pick. So it's the gift and the curse."He's got two shots at the apple. So if there's not a good situation, the truth is, he can come back to school," he added.The elder Williams says he spoke with USC head coach Lincoln Riley about other examples, such as his former pupils Baker Mayfield and Kyler Murray. He believes that both former No. 1 picks struggled significantly based on where they were drafted."The organization matters," Carl Williams said.The Trojans star admitted that not be able to chose his destination in the NFL that the weirdest part of the the situation is "uncertainty.""I've always been able to choose the team that I've played on," he said.Williams previously said that he'll choose whether to enter the draft at the conclusion of the 2023 season, describing the moment as an in-the-moment decision.The superstar passer has picked up where he left off in 2022, throwing for 597 yards, nine touchdowns and zero interceptions while completing 73.5% of his pass attempts through two games this season.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Kansas City Chiefs star defensive tackle Chris Jones doesn't believe he's letting his teammates down as he continues to hold out for a new deal."Who are you letting down if you're asking your boss for a raise?" he said Wednesday, according to the Kansas City Star's Sam McDowell. "When you take the personal feelings out of it, you kind of get it."The four-time Pro Bowler added that he felt he'd be a bigger distraction for the Chiefs if he staged a hold-in.However, Jones is optimistic that the two sides can reach a deal."Hopefully, it all gets worked out," he said. "It's always been my goal to be a Kansas City Chief for life. I've said that multiple times on social media platforms (and) from interviews. They know where my position is at."Jones is entering the final season of a four-year, $80-million extension he signed in July 2020. The two-time Super Bowl winner has racked up fines for missing the team's offseason workouts, training camp, and all three preseason games. He could forfeit close to $1.1 million for every regular-season game he misses, according to The Associated Press' Dave Skretta.Jones said he's been training and keeping in shape in Miami during his absence. The defensive standout also said he's kept in communication with his teammates.Jones isn't sure if he'll be playing or watching the Chiefs' season opener from the sideline Thursday against the Detroit Lions on Thursday. However, he's adamant that he'd be on the field tomorrow if he signed a new deal today."I can play right now," Jones said, according to The Athletic's Nate Taylor.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Let's make each other a promise. This will be our guilty pleasure this season. Our one parlay each week.We'll reserve one unit of our bankroll for an NFL betting lottery ticket. Meanwhile, we'll play every other bet as a single play as we try to win 55% of those in an effort to be profitable long term.There are NFL upsets every week. Here, we'll take five 'dogs and see if we can win three. If there are surprises throughout the league one week, we could run into four or five moneyline upsets and have our parlay legs connect for a bankroll-juicing windfall.How it worksWe parlay five underdogs together - whom we also bet against the spread - in 10 different three-team parlays. Using every combination of a three-team parlay is called a round robin, so we'll use a total of 1.1 units to make 11 different bets: 10 three-team parlays and one five-team parlay, each for .1 units. You'll likely double your money if three teams pull off the upset. If four teams win, you're connecting on four separate parlays and will be very pleased with the return. If all five teams win, you'll be diving into a gold doubloon silo like a young Scrooge McDuck.Who to playLions (+200) vs. ChiefsJust because we no longer have the best price on a bet doesn't always mean the value is gone. This was as long as +225 last week before Travis Kelce's knee injury. But a non-conference game for the Chiefs - who have bigger goals than going 1-0 - isn't all that important.What does Kansas City's offense look like without Kelce? We don't really know as he's missed just one meaningful game since Patrick Mahomes took over.Meanwhile, the Chiefs' defense will be without their most important piece, Chris Jones. They're 2-4 in meaningful games without Jones dating back to 2019, with their wins coming against the Joe Flacco-led Broncos and the Commanders with Taylor Heinicke. Kansas City surrendered an average of 31.75 points in those four losses.The Lions' offense is more in line with the teams that have piled up points on the Jones-less Chiefs. Without Kelce, Kansas City is unlikely to keep up. It's possible not enough of an adjustment has been made to the odds, as this game has become the type of high-variance result that we like in this space.Buccaneers (+210) vs. VikingsWe need one more decent-sized pup to help the payout, and the veteran-laden Buccaneers played their best game in Week 1 of last season in shutting down the Cowboys. Todd Bowles isn't my favorite head coach, but he's had more than enough time to come up with something to contain Justin Jefferson and pressure Kirk Cousins. Meanwhile, Baker Mayfield should be able to score enough to keep this close. At 2-to-1 odds, we'll take our chances that this is the touchdown underdog to come through against the vulnerable Vikings.Steelers (+120) vs. 49ersI've had this circled since it was lined Steelers +3 this summer. However, I don't think we'll need the points, which is good since this line has come down since. Nothing Brock Purdy saw in his sojourn to semi-stardom last year looked anything like the Steelers' defense in Pittsburgh. And like Jones, the hole left by Nick Bosa's holdout will be felt. As with the Lions, a win here is a bigger deal for the Steelers than for their opponent.Titans (+160) vs. SaintsMike Vrabel's getting points against Dennis Allen.It's safe to say we'll get deeper into this game as a best bet later in the week, but a healthy Titans team is being underrated in the market. Meanwhile, there's a chance the Saints are being overrated because they're the best of a rough group in the NFC South.Raiders (+170) vs. BroncosSpeaking of head coaches, let's dare Sean Payton to matter. The Raiders won both matchups versus the Broncos last year, although Payton has said he plans to fix Russell Wilson. But shouldn't Wilson, a veteran quarterback, have fixed himself at some point last season? If he's too far gone, the Raiders are well worth including in this collection since the line should be under a field goal.How the odds look this week:PARLAYODDS (Approx.)DET+PIT+TB+1800DET+PIT+TEN+1500DET+PIT+LV+1500DET+TB+TEN+2200DET+TB+LV+2300DET+TEN+LV+1900PIT+TB+TEN+1700PIT+TEN+LV+1400PIT+TB+LV+1700TB+TEN+LV+2100DET+PIT+TB+TEN+LV+13300Who are your five underdogs for a football betting lottery ticket?Matt Russell is the lead betting analyst for theScore. If there's a bad beat to be had, Matt will find it. Find him on social media @mrussauthentic.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

There's value in placing teasers on NFL Sundays. While a casual bettor may see a drastic shift in points and go crazy, remember: not all teasers are equal. Yes, there are dumb teasers, but there are also smart ways to tease that follow winning margin probabilities.The goal of a teaser, if used effectively, is to alter the point spread by (usually) six points while gaining value on each leg of the teaser. A single leg of a six-point teaser (-120) is priced around -280, as opposed to an alternate spread shifted by six points that might be -300 or shorter.With each leg at longer odds than the alternate spread, teasers provide value for bettors by capturing key winning margin numbers: three, six, and seven. It never makes sense to tease a game through zero because you're losing valuable win probability, given how rarely games are won by less than a field goal or end in a super-rare tie.Let's use the Week 1 matchup between the 49ers and the 2.5-point underdog Steelers to illustrate the value of teasing a game:Alt. spread OddsSteelers +3.5-150Steelers +4.5-180Steelers +5.5-205Steelers +6.5-250Steelers +7.5-330Steelers +8.5-370You can see the massive price jump when the Steelers go from +6.5 to +7.5, indicating a key number (7) was crossed. It's important to identify key numbers and cross them to get the best value on a teaser.Teasing the Steelers to +8.5 gives you a price of -280 on this leg of the teaser, instead of a price of -370 on its own, which could be parlayed with another alternate spread at a much worse price than you'd get for a teaser.To optimize Steelers +8.5, we need to find its mate to lock in a two-team teaser. If both legs hit, the ticket cashes. Here's our weekly teaser basket of the best options to tease based on key numbers.Teaser BasketTeamSpreadTeaser LegSteelers+2.5+8.5Browns+2.5+8.5Vikings-6PKCommanders-7-1Packers+1.5+7.5Jets+2.5+8.5There are two types of teaser legs to target, as the chart indicates: those that take a spread of around a touchdown and turn it into a just-win scenario, or those that turn a coin-flip game with a spread under a field goal into a cover-by-a-touchdown situation.With the uncertainty Week 1 presents, it's wise to back home underdogs and fade road favorites, particularly in division matchups. The Jets perfectly fall into that spot as a divisional home underdog in Aaron Rodgers' N.Y. debut on Monday Night Football. The Browns are also a home underdog in a divisional game against the Bengals with Joe Burrow's status questionable.Divisional home underdogs are 15-2 against the spread in Week 1 since 2012. The Steelers aren't playing a divisional opponent but they're home underdogs against the 49ers.My teaser of the week is the Steelers +8.5 paired with the Commanders -1, who open the season at home against an atrocious Cardinals team. Meanwhile, the Browns and Jets are worthy teases, as well, following the divisional matchup trend.Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X, formally known as Twitter, @soshtry for more betting coverage.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

San Francisco pass-rusher Nick Bosa remained away from the team as the 49ers held their first Week 1 practice Wednesday, sources told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.His status for Sunday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers is reportedly now in doubt.Bosa has held out throughout the offseason and preseason as he seeks a massive contract extension.San Francisco has offered the star defensive end a contract that averages in excess of $30 million per season, but the two sides have been unable to reach an agreement, adds Rapoport.Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald currently tops all non-quarterbacks with a deal that averages $31.66 million.Bosa won the Defensive Player of the Year award last season after leading the NFL with 18.5 sacks.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Find positional rankings, additional analysis, and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.In an effort to help you find trades that could improve your fantasy team, we present the Trade Value Chart.You can use this chart to compare players and build realistic trade offers. Values are based on 12-team leagues.Follow the links below to see the trade values and rest of season rankings for each position.Trade Values

Get ready for your season with theScore's 2023 Fantasy Football Draft Kit and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.Welcome to theScore Fantasy Football Podcast, hosted by Justin Boone.Find the show on Spotify, Apple, Google, and Stitcher.In this episode, Boone takes an early look at intriguing players available on the waiver wire heading into Week 1.

Find positional rankings, additional analysis, and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.Every Monday during the season, theScore's Justin Boone runs down the recommended waiver-wire pickups.Roster percentages are based on Yahoo leagues. Free Agent Budget (FAB) amounts are based on a $100 salary cap. Only players rostered in less than 50% of leagues are considered.Quarterbacks Rob Carr / Getty Images Sport / GettySam Howell, CommandersNext UpRosteredFABvs. ARI22%$2With the top eight fantasy quarterbacks locked in place and another eight quality options immediately behind them, most fantasy managers in start-one-QB leagues won't need to turn to the waiver wire before Week 1.However, Howell is on a short list of sleepers who could challenge for a spot in the QB1 fantasy finishers this season.The second-year passer showed poise in the pocket during his lone start as a rookie and again this preseason. With a strong supporting cast and the ability to rack up yards with his legs, he has the right profile to overachieve in fantasy.He enters Week 1 as a seven-point favorite against a severely depleted Cardinals team whose defense projects to be one of the worst in the league in 2023.Streaming options: Jordan Love at CHI (30% rostered), Derek Carr vs. TEN (41% rostered)Risky streaming options: Bryce Young at ATL (19% rostered), Ryan Tannehill at NO (8% rostered), Kenny Pickett vs. SF (39% rostered), Matthew Stafford at SEA (31% rostered), Jimmy Garoppolo at DEN (17% rostered), Baker Mayfield at MIN (10% rostered), Desmond Ridder vs. CAR (5% rostered), C.J. Stroud at BAL (10% rostered), Mac Jones vs. PHI (8% rostered)Desperation streaming options: Clayton Tune (0% rostered) or Joshua Dobbs (1% rostered)Injured-reserve stashes: Kyler Murray (24% rostered)Running backs Andy Lyons / Getty Images Sport / GettyZack Moss/Deon Jackson/Evan Hull, ColtsNext UpRosteredFABvs. JAX8%/31%/5%$3/$3/$1Jonathan Taylor is out for at least the Colts' first four games, and we don't know what will happen after that. Returning to the team is possible, but with his contract situation unresolved, there are a lot of outcomes where he doesn't suit up for Indianapolis this season.That leaves Zack Moss, Deon Jackson, and Evan Hull to handle the load for at least the opening month.Moss, who is working his way back from a broken arm, performed well as Taylor's injury replacement down the stretch last year - posting at least 70 yards from scrimmage in each of his last four outings. While he projects to be the lead back when healthy, he might not be available for the season opener.Jackson is viewed as the Week 1 starter and has delivered as a relief option in the past. He'll be a nice flex starter versus the Jaguars, but his fantasy value could be short-lived if Moss takes over as the early-down grinder in Week 2.Fifth-round rookie Hull has the best athletic profile among the Colts' backups and has potential as a long-term stash who could emerge as a starter if Taylor has indeed played his final snap for the organization.All three backs deserve to be rostered until we see how this situation plays out - just don't break the bank to acquire them.Jaylen Warren, Kenneth Gainwell, Tank Bigsby, and De'Von Achane are close to or above the 50% rostered mark but should be rostered in most leagues.High-upside backups like Roschon Johnson (16% rostered), Tyjae Spears (15% rostered), Ty Chandler (7% rostered), and Sean Tucker (2% rostered) should be rostered in most leagues.Risky flex options: Chuba Hubbard at ATL (17% rostered), Kyren Williams at SEA (3% rostered), Joshua Kelley vs. MIA (3% rostered), Gus Edwards vs. HOU (16% rostered)Risky flex options (if healthy): Jerome Ford vs. CIN (9% rostered), Kendre Miller vs. TEN (19% rostered)Dart-throw flex options: Chris Evans at CLE (1% rostered), Rico Dowdle at NYG (1% rostered), Keaontay Ingram at WSH (2% rostered)Other backups to roster: Devin Singletary (25% rostered), Zamir White (9% rostered), D'Onta Foreman (31% rostered), Clyde Edwards-Helaire (20% rostered), Deuce Vaughn (18% rostered)Deep stashes: Leonard Fournette (5% rostered), Kareem Hunt (16% rostered), Latavius Murray (1% rostered), Trayveon Williams (0% rostered), Jordan Mason (0% rostered), Justice Hill (0% rostered), Craig Reynolds (0% rostered), Chris Rodriguez Jr. (1% rostered), Emanuel Wilson (0% rostered)Injured-reserve stashes: Jeff Wilson (27% rostered)Wide receivers Dustin Bradford / Getty Images Sport / GettyMarvin Mims, BroncosNext UpRosteredFABvs. LV35%$5The waiver-wire pickups you make before Week 1 depend greatly on your roster. If injuries have already struck and you need an instant starter, then Van Jefferson might seem enticing with Cooper Kupp slated to miss time at the beginning of the season.Unfortunately, Jefferson's ceiling will be capped when Kupp returns to action. That's why we recommend aiming for wideouts with more upside - like Mims.The first pick of the Sean Payton era in Denver has already carved out a starting role in three-wide sets and should see an even bigger bump in playing time as Jerry Jeudy deals with a hamstring issue and is likely to miss the opener.Mims is expected to start across from Courtland Sutton, and his field-stretching ability was already on display when he came down with a 50-yard grab in the third preseason game.The Broncos also have one of the easiest early-season schedules, paving the way for Mims to make his presence felt immediately.Jonathan Mingo, PanthersNext UpRosteredFABat ATL16%$3Similar to Mims, if you're looking for long-term upside, Jonathan Mingo is the type of rookie who could turn into a difference-maker as the season progresses.The 22-year-old earned a starting spot in the Panthers' offense, and the only thing standing between him and the No. 1 receiver role is a past-his-prime Adam Thielen and a banged-up DJ Chark.Mingo stood out in offseason practices, and it didn't take him long to begin making plays in the preseason, where he flashed his yards-after-catch ability.We might be talking about Mingo and fellow rookie Bryce Young as one of the more exciting QB-WR pairings in the second half of the season. Fantasy managers should stash Mingo and patiently wait for him to break out.Van Jefferson, RamsNext UpRosteredFABat SEA16%$3Cooper Kupp is visiting a specialist in Minnesota to get additional information about his hamstring injury, which he recently aggravated. Normally, you don't go out of town for a second opinion when you're day-to-day, so it seems like the veteran receiver could miss more than just Week 1.That positions Jefferson to be the Rams' No. 1 wideout when the season starts. While he hasn't posted massive fantasy numbers with his previous opportunities, it'll be hard to rank him as anything less than a WR3 for however long Kupp is sidelined.Nico Collins and Rashee Rice are close to or above the 50% rostered mark but should be rostered in most leagues.Risky flex options: Romeo Doubs at CHI (31% rostered), Zay Jones at IND (31% rostered), Darnell Mooney vs. GB (42% rostered), Rondale Moore at WSH (14% rostered), Parris Campbell vs. DAL (4% rostered), Josh Reynolds at KC (1% rostered)Risky flex options (if healthy): DJ Chark at ATL (17% rostered)Dart-throw flex options: Darius Slayton vs. DAL (4% rostered), Curtis Samuel vs. ARI (11% rostered), Rashid Shaheed vs. TEN (12% rostered), Michael Gallup at NYG (31% rostered), Donovan Peoples-Jones vs. CIN (15% rostered), Jayden Reed at CHI (8% rostered), K.J. Osborn vs. TB (11% rostered), Alec Pierce (7% rostered), Puka Nacua at SEA (2% rostered), DeVante Parker vs. PHI (3% rostered), Isaiah Hodgins vs. DAL (7% rostered)Other receivers to roster: Jameson Williams (34% rostered), Jalin Hyatt (21% rostered), Tyler Boyd (46% rostered), Justyn Ross (5% rostered)Deep stashes: Demario Douglas (0% rostered), Josh Downs vs. JAX (2% rostered), Tank Dell (6% rostered), Michael Wilson (1% rostered), Trey Palmer (1% rostered)Tight ends Jim McIsaac / Getty Images Sport / GettyJuwan Johnson/Taysom Hill, SaintsNext UpRosteredFABvs. TEN37%/15%$2/$1There are a couple of tight ends sitting on most waiver wires who will have a chance to push for low-end TE1 numbers this season.Johnson is the obvious one after he put up a strong 42-catch, 508-yard, seven-touchdown campaign a year ago. By all accounts, he's shown excellent chemistry with new starting QB Derek Carr, and Johnson has spoken about wanting to take his game to the next level in 2023.If Johnson isn't available in your league, you could consider his teammate Hill. He's been a part-time gadget player in the Saints' offense and a boom-or-bust fantasy play for managers without a reliable starter.Hill averaged the seventh-most fantasy points among tight ends last year and could get more work with Alvin Kamara suspended for the first three games.Risky streamer options: Jake Ferguson at NYG (32% rostered), Gerald Everett vs. MIA (42% rostered), Greg Dulcich vs. LV (42% rostered)Dart-throw streamer options: Hunter Henry vs. PHI (16% rostered), Trey McBride at WSH (3% rostered), Tyler Conklin vs. BUF (6% rostered), Luke Musgrave at CHI (15% rostered), Irv Smith Jr. at CLE (12% rostered), Michael Mayer at DEN (18% rostered), Cade Otton at MIN (2% rostered), Hayden Hurst at ATL (10% rostered), Logan Thomas vs. ARI (1% rostered)Deep stashes: Cole Turner (0% rostered), Durham Smythe (0% rostered)DefensesWeek 1 streamersTeamNext UpRosteredSeahawksvs. LAR14%Jaguarsat IND26%Vikingsvs. TB5%Falconsvs. CAR4%Packersat CHI35%Favorable upcoming schedules: Packers DEF (35% rostered), Giants DEF (4% rostered), Colts DEF (2% rostered), Bears DEF (3% rostered)Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Find positional rankings, additional analysis, and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.theScore's Justin Boone was first overall in FantasyPros' Most Accurate Expert Competition in 2019 and finished among the top seven each of his last seven years in the contest. Follow the links below to see his rankings for Week 1.Updated rankings (including Standard and PPR) will be released Thursday, with the final version coming down Sunday morning.Half PPR

Get ready for your season with theScore's 2023 Fantasy Football Draft Kit and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.Welcome to theScore Fantasy Football Podcast, hosted by Justin Boone.Find the show on Spotify, Apple, Google, and Stitcher.In this episode, Boone discusses Travis Kelce's injury and five tips to give your roster an advantage this season.

Veteran defensive lineman Carl Nassib is retiring from the NFL after seven seasons, he announced on Thursday."This is a bittersweet moment for me but after seven seasons and just over 100 NFL games I am officially retiring from football to focus on my company Rayze," Nassib said in a statement posted to Instagram. "It really feels like yesterday starting out as a walk-on at Penn State. Football has given me more than ever could have imagined. I can truly hand up my helmet for the last time knowing that I gave it everything I had.

A new NFL campaign kicks off Thursday. Presented alphabetically, these 23 players and coaches will help decide which squads soar, sink, and ultimately reign supreme in the 2023 season.Josh Allen: Once an AFC lightweight, the Bills rank second in wins and lead the NFL in point differential since Allen's breakout year in 2020. Allen tossed or ran for 42 touchdowns last season, but his inefficiency posed problems in the playoffs. Surrounded by talent, the adjustments the gunslinging quarterback makes will determine Buffalo's ceiling.Saquon Barkley: The Giants running back accepted $11 million on a one-year deal - slightly more money than his franchise tag dictated - to avoid a protracted standoff. Josh Jacobs, the reigning NFL rushing leader, settled for $12 million after being tagged by the Raiders. If they can't command top dollar and reset the RB market, what hope exists for the Colts' Jonathan Taylor?Odell Beckham Jr.: Because of ankle, quad, and ACL injuries, Beckham missed 45 of 98 games over the past six seasons and hasn't played in 18 months. The Ravens signed him to open space for Rashod Bateman and Zay Flowers and elevate a passing game that ranked 28th in yardage in 2022. Beckham's partnership with Lamar Jackson has the potential to bust or electrify. Scott Taetsch / Getty ImagesEric Bieniemy: The Commanders hired Bieniemy to coordinate their offense following his second Super Bowl triumph with the Chiefs. Untethered from Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes, his job is to accelerate second-year QB Sam Howell's development. The Josh Harris ownership era will begin on a bright note if Bieniemy succeeds.Orlando Brown Jr.: The steadiness of the Bengals' offensive line is always a hot topic. Joe Burrow has taken a league-high 92 sacks over the past two seasons. Protecting him is paramount, especially as he returns from a calf strain. Enter Brown, the perennial Pro Bowl left tackle who cashed in on Cincinnati's $64-million free-agent pitch.Jalen Carter: The Eagles' elite defense took hits in free agency. The departures of nose tackle Javon Hargrave, linebacker T.J. Edwards, and safeties Marcus Epps and C.J. Gardner-Johnson opened holes to fill at every level. The reigning NFC champs hope Carter, the ninth pick in the draft, can approximate Hargrave's 11-sack output. Todd Rosenberg / Getty ImagesVic Fangio: Defense was the Dolphins' weakness in 2022, so they traded for Jalen Ramsey, but lost him for months following meniscus surgery. They also hired Fangio, the 65-year-old defensive whiz who is the NFL's highest-paid coordinator. His unit has to travel to face the Chargers, Bills, Eagles, Chiefs, and Jets during Ramsey's projected absence.C.J. Gardner-Johnson: The Lions' new safety snared six interceptions last year to tie for the league lead. Gardner-Johnson also recorded a career-worst 78.6% reception rate when targeted, per PFF. Detroit bet on his upside and made several more changes to the secondary in a bid to finally win a playoff game (it's been 32 years).Myles Garrett: By PFF's grades, Garrett was the NFL's top edge rusher last season. Only divisional foe T.J. Watt has tallied more sacks over the past five years. The Browns haven't placed second in the AFC North, much less won it, or posted a positive point differential since 2007, and Garrett's at the heart of the effort to change that.Nathaniel Hackett: The Jets offensive coordinator seeks redemption. Hackett botched managing the clock and got the least out of Russell Wilson over 15 dismal games as Broncos head coach. He's under pressure to help Aaron Rodgers and Garrett Wilson click immediately so that New York's offense can fulfill its explosive potential.Justin Jefferson: Can he rack up 2,000 receiving yards? The Vikings wideout was on pace last season to break Calvin Johnson's single-year record of 1,964, but was held to five catches over the final two games and denied both milestones. Miami's Tyreek Hill finished second in yardage and has vowed he'll "break 2,000" in 2023. Stephen Maturen / Getty ImagesTrevor Lawrence: Superstardom is in reach for Jacksonville's QB. Lawrence ranked fifth in expected points added per play from Week 12 onward last season, per Ben Baldwin's data, as the Jaguars rallied to win the AFC South and then stunned the Chargers in the wild-card round. His continued progression could lead to deeper playoff runs.Jordan Love: It's finally Love's turn. The No. 26 draft pick in 2020 has attempted only 83 career passes and will quickly expand on that total after inheriting the Packers starting job from Rodgers. Green Bay's first six opponents all missed the playoffs last year, in some cases by a mile, easing Love into his prove-it season.Patrick Mahomes: His top wideout, JuJu Smith-Schuster, left in free agency. His team's best defender, destructive nose tackle Chris Jones, is willing to hold out until midseason for a new megadeal. We'll see if either hitch stops Mahomes, the reigning MVP, from leading the Chiefs to the first repeat Super Bowl championship since 2004.Mike McCarthy: The Cowboys head coach helms an offensive juggernaut that consistently falters early in the playoffs. McCarthy is calling plays himself after overhauling his staff in the offseason. His pressing task is to reduce Dak Prescott's interception percentage, which ballooned to a league-worst 3.8% on 15 INTs in 2022. Cooper Neill / Getty ImagesD.J. Moore: The Bears offense played one note last season: Justin Fields held onto the ball and ran for dear life. Chicago acquired Moore as part of the trade return for the No. 1 overall pick to diversify the playbook and help Fields grow as a passer in his third year. Moore gained 102 yards - 90 after the catch - on two dazzling preseason receptions.Sean Payton: The outspoken new Broncos coach admitted he was thinking like a Fox studio analyst - Payton's gig last year - when he ripped Hackett's mishandling of Russell Wilson. Payton apologized for that, but stood by the playoff expectations he established. He'll be ridiculed if Wilson declines further in another losing season.Brock Purdy: Was Purdy's rookie breakout a fluke? Or did it signal he's competent enough to quarterback a contender? Loaded at most positions, the 49ers have yet to ask Purdy to take risks: his big-time throw rate and average depth of target both ranked 43rd last year, per PFF. They're counting on him to be reliable over 17 games after moving on from Jimmy Garoppolo and Trey Lance. Kevin Sabitus / Getty ImagesBijan Robinson: The Falcons, a throwback team built to run the ball, promise to be a fun fit for the No. 8 overall selection. Robinson's burst, evasiveness, field vision, and power are regarded as special. He's got a chance to humiliate tacklers, light up the lackluster NFC South, and lead the league in yards from scrimmage as a rookie.Brandon Staley: Justin Herbert is a special QB, but the Chargers have let him down during Staley's coaching tenure. Counting the 27-point playoff meltdown in Jacksonville, Los Angeles went 1-6 last season against postseason qualifiers. The collapse will dog Staley until his club performs like a genuine Super Bowl hopeful.Bobby Wagner: Shaky defensively in 2022, the Seahawks brought back the franchise legend to provide a boost at linebacker. Wagner's level of play will slip eventually, but his All-Pro streak is at nine seasons. Behind him, the secondary that Riq Woolen headlines could instill fear once Jamal Adams and No. 5 pick Devon Witherspoon are healthy.Caleb Williams: USC's quarterback, the jewel of the 2024 draft class, inspires comparisons to Allen and Mahomes. Hopeless teams would be ecstatic to land Williams, whose cannon arm and fast feet propelled him to the '22 Heisman Trophy. As Kyler Murray rehabs his ACL tear, the Cardinals are a leading contender to tank.Bryce Young: Coveting Young, the Panthers traded Moore and a slew of premium draft picks to choose him first overall. Like the Texans with C.J. Stroud and the Colts with Anthony Richardson, Carolina wasted no time installing Young as the starting QB. If all goes swimmingly, he'll join Herbert, Andrew Luck, Cam Newton, and Jameis Winston as the only rookies to throw for 4,000 yards.Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce's status for Thursday's season-opener against the Detroit Lions is uncertain after the star hyperextended his knee during Tuesday's practice, head coach Andy Reid announced, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.The Chiefs believe Kelce's ACL is intact after he underwent tests Tuesday, sources told Schefter.There is reportedly inflammation in his knee and he'll be tested again Wednesday to determine his availability for Thursday night. Specifically, Kelce is dealing with a bone bruise, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport."We'll just see how he does going forward," said Reid.Kelce is the key pass-catcher in the reigning champions' offense and is again set up to be Patrick Mahomes' favorite target in 2023.The 33-year-old produced career highs in catches (110) and touchdown receptions (12) last season while also racking up 1,338 yards. It was Kelce's seventh straight 1,000-yard campaign, earning him his seventh All-Pro nomination and eighth Pro Bowl nod.If Kelce is forced to miss the first game of the season, Noah Gray and Blake Bell will be the Chiefs' two top tight ends.Kansas City should have Kadarius Toney available after Reid said last week that the wideout is on track to play after missing most of training camp with a knee injury. Fellow receivers Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Skyy Moore will likely act as Mahomes' other top weapons.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Chicago Bears safety Jaquan Brisker didn't hold back on what he thinks of the Green Bay Packers."I'm waiting. I'm itching. It's Packers week," Brisker told reporters Monday. "I know it's going to be live in the stadium. Fans everywhere, it's going to be loud."He added: "People hate Green Bay. I hate Green Bay ... I can't wait. They didn't get to see me last year, but they gonna get to see me this year."Brisker suited up in the first matchup between the two teams last season in Week 2 but missed the second game against Green Bay in Week 13 due to a concussion. The 2022 second-round pick played in 15 contests last season, racking up 104 tackles and one interception in his rookie campaign.The two teams open the 2023 regular season against each other on Sept. 10 in Chicago.Bear-Packers is one of the biggest sports rivalries, playing each other 206 times since 1921. Green Bay has the edge with a 105-95-6 record.But the rivalry hasn't been particularly close in recent years, as the Packers have won eight straight, including 23 of the last 26 matchups.Former Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers went 24-5 against Chicago in his career and taunted the Bears fan base last season, saying, "I still own you" after scoring a touchdown.

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott needs an extension in the near future thanks in large part to a $59.4-million cap hit in 2024 - the final year of his current deal - that ranks second among all NFL players.Cowboys owner Jerry Jones knows managing Prescott's contract is vital to the team's success, and he said Tuesday that he's open to negotiating with the quarterback during the season."Those types of numbers, especially the big ones, you live with constantly. That's always on your mind," Jones said on 105.3 The Fan in Dallas. "There's never a time where it goes away because you've got to make the entire thing fit."And so, it's on the mind on a player decision in the middle of the year. It's just a fundamental. We expect Dak to be with us a long time. And, yeah, we'll always (be) working around it with several machinations of numbers that would work."The Cowboys made the playoffs for the second straight year after again finishing with a 12-5 record. However, the NFC East club did so without Prescott playing his best football.The veteran signal-caller led the NFL in interceptions with 15 despite only playing in 12 games, while also finishing with his second-worst career marks in passer rating (91.1) and yards per attempt (7.3).Speculation about Prescott's standing with the team was fueled when Dallas acquired former No. 3 pick Trey Lance from the San Francisco 49ers for a fourth-round pick.Jones previously said the decision to trade for a young quarterback had nothing to do with Prescott or gaining leverage in contract talks.- With h/t to ESPNCopyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The season hasn't even begun, and the drama is already starting for the Las Vegas Raiders.Raiders pass-rusher Chandler Jones took to Instagram on Tuesday to criticize the team after he was locked out of the club's gym.Jones also took aim at Raiders coach Josh McDaniels and general manager Dave Ziegler before suggesting he wants out of Las Vegas.

The start of the NFL season is only two days away. For sports bettors, this is truly the greatest time of the year.Let's look at the favorite wagers made by theScore's betting writers for the 2023 season.Super Bowl WinnerRavens (+1800)Just because Lamar Jackson didn't make it through the last two seasons doesn't mean he'll get hurt this season. I type that sentence with difficulty whilst crossing my fingers on both hands. Behind as sturdy an offensive line as he's had in years and the most dangerous receiving targets he's ever been provided, Jackson will have more tricks up his sleeve thanks to new offensive coordinator Todd Monken - the mastermind behind Georgia's offense during their last two championship seasons.Defensively, even starting the season waiting for Tyus Bowser and Marlon Humphrey to get back from injury, the Ravens' depth chart is so good that new acquisition Jadeveon Clowney isn't considered a starter. With all three divisional road games coming in the first five weeks, there might be a chance to get a better price, but if they win two of those and start 4-1? Look out. - RussellEagles (+650) @Eagles on XIt's not some incredible value play, but I'm backing the best roster in a weak conference to return to the Super Bowl - but actually win it this time. The Eagles have a top-five quarterback, the best offensive line, and a top receiving core.While the team's defense lost some valuable pieces, its strength is its defensive line. With a blend of veteran presence and youthful stars, the 2023 iteration is just as special as last season's Super Bowl-contending version. Losing both coordinators isn't as big of a deal as many perceive it to be.The AFC is incredibly deep with six or seven potential Super Bowl contenders. The Eagles' path in the NFC won't completely be a walk in the park like it was last year, but there are still a ton of question marks in Dallas and San Francisco. I'm taking Philadelphia to win it. - OshtryRavens (+1800)Apologies for doubling down on the Ravens but they present the best value on the board for all the reasons listed above. Injuries are certainly a concern - especially for Jackson - but that risk is baked into the +1800 price. If you could guarantee Jackson plays every game this season, there's no chance the Ravens are priced above the Cowboys (+1400) and Jets (+1500) to win the Super Bowl. - PattersonFavorite future betMatt LaFleur to win Coach of the Year (+1200) Scott Taetsch / Getty Images Sport / GettyOf all the ways to back the Packers to have a good season, the one that makes the most sense at the longest odds is that Matt LaFleur gets credit for deploying his idea of an offensive game plan through Jordan Love and a handful of lesser-known pass catchers. Green Bay's defensive improvement will win them games but all anyone will want to talk about is life after Aaron Rodgers. Since offense is LaFleur's bag, and a winnable division will be a surprise to many, the coach will be cheered for actually improving the Packers' offense to the tune of a 12-1 payout just for toppling the Lions, Vikings and Bears. - RussellSteelers to win the AFC North (+450)The AFC North is a loaded division in a deep conference, but I like the Steelers with the longest odds to win the division. The Bengals are the favorites with one of the top quarterbacks in football when he's healthy and a loaded supporting cast around him. But I could see some regression, especially as Joe Burrow slowly returns to form after a calf injury.I'm not buying the Ravens hype and the Browns have more questions than answers. The Steelers have never had a losing season under head coach Mike Tomlin. Kenny Pickett showed flashes of franchise quarterback potential in his rookie season. Another leap is coming, especially with improved weapons around him.Other than divisional opponents, the Steelers' schedule is relatively favorable, so they're my surprise team this season - and that includes winning the division at +450. - OshtryGarrett Wilson to lead NFL in receptions (+3500) Adam Bettcher / Getty Images Sport / GettyGarrett Wilson is widely considered as one of the best receivers in the game despite only being in his second year. He has the sixth shortest odds to lead the league in receiving yards, has the same receiving touchdown total as Tyreek Hill at over 7.5 (-125), but has the 12th shortest odds to lead the league in receptions.The Jets will have a balanced offensive attack with Breece Hall and Dalvin Cook splitting carries in the backfield, but they project to have a far more efficient passing game with Aaron Rodgers under center than the combination of Joe Flacco, Zach Wilson, and Mike White that Wilson dealt with last year.Rodgers and Nathaniel Hackett - who was in Green Bay for Rodgers's 2020 and 2021 MVP seasons and is now the Jets' offensive coordinator - target their top receiver a bunch. Wilson should play the same role as Davante Adams did in Green Bay, where Adams finished second in receptions in each of his final two seasons as a Packer.Wilson was targeted 147 times last year from the trio of below-average quarterbacks listed above and still caught 83 balls. If he and Rodgers can build the same connection as Adams had with Rodgers in Green Bay, expect Wilson to be firmly in the mix to lead the league in receptions making +3500 a worthy wager. - PattersonFavorite prop betTua Tagovailoa over 3900.5 passing yards (-105)In games Tua Tagovailoa finished last season, he averaged 286.5 passing yards per game in his first year with Mike McDaniel's offense. There's an inherent risk in backing Tagovailoa to be healthy, sure, but call me a dreamer. Even if he plays 14 games, maintaining last year's average - which included outlier games against the Chargers and Bills that dropped his average even lower - he would pass for over 4,000 yards. Let's keep Tua upright and give him a good chance to lead the league in passing yards as well. - RussellTrevor Lawrence over 4000.5 passing yards (-140) AAron Ontiveroz/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images / Denver Post / GettyI wrote about it a few weeks ago here, but Trevor Lawrence's MVP campaign is on the horizon. He drastically improved from Year 1 to Year 2 and is ready for another jump in his second year in Doug Pederson's system.Lawrence threw for over 4,100 passing yards last season, which ranked ninth in the NFL. The addition of Calvin Ridley should increase that even more. Lawrence proved he was a competent NFL quarterback last year. This year, he'll show he's among the elite. - OshtryJahan Dotson over 4.5 receiving touchdowns (+105)Dotson hauled in four touchdowns in the first four games of his career and demonstrated his knack for finding the end zone early despite only having 12 total catches over that span.A hamstring injury and poor quarterback play from the Commanders hampered the middle part of his rookie season. But Dotson still ended the year with seven receiving touchdowns to tie the Packers' Christian Watson for the lead among rookie wideouts.It's hard to imagine the Commanders taking an offensive step back in 2023. They brought in offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy from the Chiefs and should get much more consistent quarterback play from Sam Howell, who impressed this preseason.Dotson could also be in line for a lot more receiving volume if Terry McLaurin misses time early in the year with a toe injury. Regardless, Dotson is bound to progress in his second year, should be Howell's number one red zone target, and is a wise bet to go over 4.5 receiving touchdowns. - PattersonCopyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen doesn't believe just one other running back will be able to make up for the absence of All-Pro Jonathan Taylor.'I think it's running back-by-committee," Steichen said, according to Joel A. Erickson of the Indianapolis Star. "Whoever's got the hot hand, let 'em ride a little bit."Zack Moss, Deon Jackson, and rookie Evan Hull top the Colts' backfield depth chart.Moss was expected to be Taylor's primary backup, but he suffered a broken arm at the start of training camp. While the veteran has returned to practice and is expected to be ready for Week 1, Jackson and Hull will seemingly get their opportunities to shine.Taylor will miss at least the first four games of the season after being kept on the physically unable to perform list due to an ankle injury. His status is further complicated by a deteriorating relationship with the Colts that led Taylor to request a trade in late July.Indianapolis opted to keep Taylor after interested teams failed to match its asking price. The Green Bay Packers and Miami Dolphins were reportedly among the clubs interested in acquiring the star running back.While the Colts won't have Taylor to start the season, they will have a new quarterback under center in rookie Anthony Richardson.The No. 4 pick is touted as one of the most athletically gifted quarterbacks to ever suit up in the NFL, and Moss recognized that Richardson's ability to run the ball will make it easier for the rest of the Colts' offense."The box is lighter," Moss said. "I played with Josh Allen for three years in Buffalo, so I understand when you have a guy like that, what that means for ourselves, for the o-line, for everyone else."Indianapolis will open the season at home Sunday against the Jacksonville Jaguars.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The NFL Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's football editors.Today, we set the stage for a 2023 season that's sure to feature its fair share of twists, turns, and surprises.1. Kansas City Chiefs Christian Petersen / Getty Images Sport / GettyPreseason rank: 1When will Chris Jones return? The star defensive lineman continues to hold out while seeking a contract extension, and his long absence is even scaring his teammates. The Chiefs will be favorites in the AFC as long as Patrick Mahomes is on the field, but not having their top defender for part of the regular season would be a big blow for the reigning Super Bowl champions.2. Philadelphia EaglesPreseason rank: 2After reaching the Super Bowl for the second time in six years, the Eagles will look to get back to the big game with another stacked roster. Philadelphia lost some key defensive players but has young talent to replace the departures. The combo of Jalen Hurts, DeVonta Smith, and A.J. Brown keeps this offense among the league's best.3. San Francisco 49ersPreseason rank: 4The 49ers have one of football's most well-rounded and talented rosters but are missing a key weapon with the season opener just around the corner. Reigning Defensive Player of the Year Nick Bosa is still holding out while negotiating a lucrative long-term extension with the team.4. Cincinnati BengalsPreseason rank: 3Cincinnati has a war chest of weapons to pick from on any given offensive snap, and Joe Burrow is fresh off a stellar 4,475/35/12 campaign. The offense alone is enough to have the Bengals ranked near the top of the league, and defensive contributors like Logan Wilson and Trey Hendrickson only help.5. Buffalo Bills Quinn Harris / Getty Images Sport / GettyPreseason rank: 7Josh Allen completed less than 60% in five of his last nine games in 2022 after suffering an elbow injury in Week 9. Allen is now fully healthy and ready to rebound with a new weapon on offense in rookie tight end Dalton Kincaid. The Bills have the talent to compete with the best of the best in the AFC.6. Dallas CowboysPreseason rank: 9The Cowboys' season ended in disappointment last year, but there's reason for optimism heading into 2023. Dallas replaced its biggest holes on the roster with legit starters. The team acquired Brandin Cooks and Stephon Gilmore via trade with late-round picks, helping shore up the second cornerback and wide receiver positions.7. Baltimore RavensPreseason rank: 8Baltimore stocked up on receivers for Lamar Jackson this offseason, drafting Zay Flowers in the first round and signing free agent Odell Beckham Jr. Those additions, along with new offensive coordinator Todd Monken, should complement the Ravens' perennially strong defense.8. New York JetsPreseason rank: 5The Aaron Rodgers era in New York begins. Out of 42 quarterbacks who played 150 snaps last season, Mike White, Joe Flacco, and Zach Wilson all ranked in the bottom five in expected points added per play, according to Ben Baldwin's Database. With better quarterback play and a star-studded defense, the Jets will be a threat in the AFC.9. Miami DolphinsPreseason rank: 6Mike McDaniel enters his second season as the Dolphins' head coach with a successful first campaign under his belt. Miami made the playoffs without starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who's back healthy after suffering three concussions last season. Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill are a nightmare for opposing defensive coordinators to game-plan against every week.10. Los Angeles Chargers Thearon W. Henderson / Getty Images Sport / GettyPreseason rank: 10Despite the first playoff appearance of the Justin Herbert era, the Chargers' 2022 season ended in disappointment following their collapse in the wild-card round. But the talent is still there, and first-round receiver Quentin Johnston gives Herbert - now the league's highest-paid QB - a new weapon. Preseason seems to be the most exciting time of the year for L.A. lately, so Chargers fans should feel good about starting another season with a talented roster.11. Jacksonville JaguarsPreseason rank: 12The Jaguars haven't entered the year as the AFC South favorites in what feels like forever. But their status as the division's unquestioned top dog is more than warranted thanks to Trevor Lawrence and Doug Pederson. Whether they can challenge the elite teams in the AFC, however, remains unclear.12. Seattle SeahawksPreseason rank: 11What a difference a year makes. After the Seahawks made the playoffs in their first year after trading Russell Wilson, the expectations for Seattle are significantly different now. With the arrival of first-round rookie Jaxon Smith-Njigba, quarterback Geno Smith has one of the league's best receiving corps around him as he tries to stay hot after claiming the 2022 Comeback Player of the Year award.13. Detroit LionsPreseason rank: 13The Lions are a hot pick to make a run in the NFC, but they still need to prove that they can consistently win games before climbing much higher than this. Jared Goff will look to improve upon his career-reviving 2022 campaign under center, while the defense strives to better its league-worst 392.4 yards allowed per game from a season ago.14. Cleveland BrownsPreseason rank: 15All eyes will be on Deshaun Watson now that he's entering his first full season in Cleveland, but the team is still likely to run through Nick Chubb. Defensively, Myles Garrett and Za'Darius Smith should form a dynamic pass-rushing duo early and often, with the former squarely in the early Defensive Player of the Year conversation.15. Pittsburgh Steelers Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyPreseason rank: 16The defense should keep this team competitive most weeks, especially with T.J. Watt healthy. Kenny Pickett will need to improve upon his 7/9 TD/INT ratio from his rookie campaign as he tries to extend his three-game win streak, which includes successes over the Raiders, Ravens, and Browns to finish last season.16. New York GiantsPreseason rank: 14Head coach Brian Daboll turned the franchise's fortunes around after the disastrous Joe Judge era. Quarterback Daniel Jones had the best season of his career under Daboll and now has more weapons to work with in tight end Darren Waller and rookie wide receiver Jalin Hyatt.17. Minnesota VikingsPreseason rank: 17Minnesota shed the contracts, and talent, of multiple veterans this offseason, but returns one of the NFL's best players in Justin Jefferson. The 24-year-old wideout will look to continue the historic beginning of his career, while the defense is hoping to improve upon its bottom-five ranking from last year.18. New Orleans SaintsPreseason rank: 18The steady hand of Derek Carr makes the Saints the favorites in a weak division. But it's hard to see the ceiling of New Orleans as anything other than a playoff team destined to get immediately knocked off by one of the conference's powerhouses.19. New England PatriotsPreseason rank: 19Bill Belichick hasn't won a playoff game since Tom Brady departed in 2020. He's entering his 23rd season as the Patriots head coach and just turned 71 in April. New England's roster lacks talent on the offensive side of the ball but should have a solid defense to keep the team competitive. If the Patriots miss the playoffs, look for some drama to brew between Belichick and owner Robert Kraft.20. Green Bay Packers Patrick McDermott / Getty Images Sport / GettyPreseason rank: 26Jordan Love's play will be the most important thing in determining the Packers' success this season. Green Bay, which is fielding the youngest roster in the NFL to open Week 1, is confident that the 2020 first-rounder can continue this iconic franchise's prolonged success at the game's most important position.21. Washington CommandersPreseason rank: 22The Dan Snyder era is over. Washington sold out its season opener for the first time since 2013, showing the fan base is excited for a new chapter. The Commanders have a loaded defensive line but lack the talent elsewhere on the roster. The team is hopeful new starting quarterback Sam Howell can bring Washington back to relevance.22. Denver BroncosPreseason rank: 20There's optimism that coach Sean Payton can help Russell Wilson revive his career after the quarterback's disappointing 2022. It won't be easy, though, and their offense didn't look good with Wilson in the preseason. Receiver Jerry Jeudy is expected to miss several weeks with a hamstring injury, while Tim Partick will sit out the year due to a torn Achilles.23. Atlanta FalconsPreseason rank: 28It's Year 3 for head coach Arthur Smith and general manager Terry Fontenot. They've been granted patience by ownership to rebuild the Falcons, but with Tom Brady gone from the division and an arsenal of weapons on offense, it's time for some results.24. Tennessee TitansPreseason rank: 21The Jaguars are the clear favorites in the AFC South, while the Texans and the Colts are retooling with eyes on 2024 and beyond. That leaves the Titans in no man's land in the division and conference as a whole. If Derrick Henry's inevitable decline comes this season, can the talented defense do enough to keep the team relevant in a stacked AFC?25. Carolina Panthers Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images Sport / GettyPreseason rank: 23Carolina hasn't won the NFC South since 2015, and it'll be a tall order for No. 1 pick Bryce Young to help end that unwanted streak in his first year. Still, the division lacks a standout team, and the Panthers finished just one game behind the Bucs last year. Stranger things have happened.26. Las Vegas RaidersPreseason rank: 24Josh McDaniels is under a lot of pressure after going 6-11 during his first season with the Raiders. He's now 17-28 as an NFL head coach. Las Vegas hopes the return of star running back Josh Jacobs on a new one-year deal and quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, who joined this season and is familiar with McDaniels' offensive system, will help the coach turn things around.27. Chicago BearsPreseason rank: 25Reaching consensus on expectations for Chicago has seemed impossible for those in the NFL world. Some believe the Bears will challenge for the NFC North crown, while others think they're destined to be picking at the top of next year's draft. A Week 1 tilt with the Packers will give us our first glimpse into how things may go this year.28. Tampa Bay BuccaneersPreseason rank: 29The Tom Brady hangover was always coming. After three seasons as Super Bowl contenders, the Bucs return to their usual spot toward the bottom of the league standings. Among the club's most prominent questions in 2023 is if Todd Bowles is the man to lead Tampa Bay quickly back to the top.29. Los Angeles RamsPreseason rank: 27The Rams will try to bounce back from a 5-12 season with one of the NFL's youngest rosters. The return of veterans Aaron Donald, Matthew Stafford, and Cooper Kupp gives hope to an L.A. team that lacks depth in most positions. But Kupp recently had a setback while rehabbing from a hamstring injury, and Los Angeles certainly can't afford to be without the star receiver on the field with games versus the Seahawks, 49ers, and Bengals on tap to start the season.30. Houston Texans Wesley Hitt / Getty Images Sport / GettyPreseason rank: 31After several dark seasons in Houston, the arrival of head coach DeMeco Ryans and rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud feels like a new dawn. While the immediate results might not be there, the Texans finally feel like they're on the right path.31. Indianapolis ColtsPreseason rank: 30No Jonathan Taylor, a secondary made up mostly of unproven parts, and a new coaching staff still trying to implement its vision equates to a long season in Indianapolis. But wins and losses don't matter much to the Colts, only that Anthony Richardson shows enough to convince them he's their franchise quarterback.32. Arizona CardinalsPreseason rank: 32While every NFL team can't wait for the start of the upcoming season, it feels like the Cardinals are already focused on the 2024 offseason. They're the favorites to land the No. 1 pick in next year's draft and be in position to presumably select quarterback Caleb Williams. With Kyler Murray still sidelined and Colt McCoy released, Joshua Dobbs and fifth-round rookie Clayton Tune are Arizona's quarterback options.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New York Jets cornerback D.J. Reed believes the team's defense has the potential to be among the best of all time."I think we can be historical," Reed told reporters Monday, according to Rich Cimini of ESPN."Not just the best defense in the league, but I think we can be a historical defense like the '85-'86 (Chicago) Bears and the (Seattle Seahawks' Legion of Boom) in 2013. I think we can be that dominant if we just put all the things together."The Jets will return eight starters from the defense that ranked fourth in points and yards allowed last season. New York has two young stars in defensive tackle Quinnen Williams and cornerback Sauce Gardner who can take another step forward in 2023.Williams signed a lucrative four-year, $96-million deal in July, making him one of the highest-paid defensive tackles in the league. The 25-year-old had a tremendous 2022 campaign, racking up 55 tackles with 12 sacks and two forced fumbles, earning first-team All-Pro honors.Gardner had one of the best rookie seasons for a defensive player in recent memory, also earning first-team All-Pro honors. The Cincinnati product only allowed 34 catches on 74 targets in coverage for 361 yards, according to Pro Football Focus. He also only gave up one touchdown all season, which came in Week 2 against the Cleveland Browns.Meanwhile, second-year pass-rusher Jermaine Johnson and rookie Will McDonald are expected to earn considerable playing time on a defensive front that ranked seventh in sacks last season."Shit, why not speak your goals?" Jets defensive end John Franklin-Myers said, per Cimini. "We're not afraid to sit here and go out on a limb and say we want to win the Super Bowl, or we want to be the best defense in the NFL."The 1985 Bears and 2013 Seahawks both won the Super Bowl and are widely considered two of the most dominant defenses of all time.The Jets open their season Sept. 11 against the Buffalo Bills.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Chidobe Awuzie will suit up for the team's Week 1 matchup with the Cleveland Browns, head coach Zac Taylor said Monday, according to ESPN's Ben Baby.Awuzie played in just eight games in 2022 before tearing his ACL against the Browns.The 28-year-old provides experience to a young Bengals secondary. 2022 second-rounder Cam Taylor-Britt and rookie DJ Turner are expected to see plenty of snaps this season at corner, while last year's first-round pick, Dax Hill, is set to be the team's starter at free safety.Awuzie's best season came in 2021 when the team reached Super Bowl LVI. He picked off two passes, deflected another 14, and collected 64 total tackles.The 6-foot, 202-pounder has tallied six interceptions, 56 pass deflections, and 312 total tackles since the Dallas Cowboys drafted him with the No. 60 pick in the 2017 draft.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The quarterback is everything in the modern NFL.An elite player under center can make you an immediate contender. Anything less and you'd better have a stacked roster everywhere else.With the 2023 season only days away, let's check in on every team's state at the most important position on the field.1. Patrick MahomesYou couldn't possibly have expected anyone else. Combining S-tier arm talent with unfathomable improv skills, as well as the instincts and processing ability to beat opponents with his mind, Mahomes is already one of the best quarterbacks we've ever seen. The rest of the NFL's top quarterbacks figure to be battling for a distant second place for the foreseeable future. The real question is whether Mahomes has the longevity to chase down some of Tom Brady's seemingly unbreakable records.2. Josh AllenAllen gets this spot because of a skill set that's straight out of a video game. While it feels like he'll never be able to dial it back and let a play die, often opening the door for turnover-worthy plays, it's hard to fault him when he can do the things he does on the field. And he more than makes up for the occasional negatives by making throws that other quarterbacks don't have any business attempting. Allen has one of the strongest arms in football history, and his development in the accuracy department is unprecedented. Add in his size and athleticism, which make him a nightmare to bring down both in the pocket and on the move, and you've got a full-fledged unicorn.3. Joe Burrow Cooper Neill / Getty Images Sport / GettyIf the No. 3 spot feels too low for Burrow, fine. Call it 2B. It's not like he's that far behind, if at all. The Bengals superstar only loses the tiebreaker to Allen because he doesn't have the same kind of physical gifts, thus limiting his arsenal. But that also doesn't matter much with the way he plays the game. Burrow's sublime accuracy and anticipation more than compensate for anything he lacks in terms of arm strength, and he's also got the instincts and athleticism to keep plays alive and thrive outside of structure. Becoming more efficient in the short areas of the field, and working to checkdowns when defenses took away the vertical game, completed his rise to elite QB status last year.4. Justin HerbertGo ahead, reference the lack of team success - and an embarrassing playoff loss - in making the case as to why Herbert should be lower on this list. But none of that actually defines him individually. In fact, becoming the quarterback he has while playing for such a maddeningly mediocre franchise only makes him look better. Herbert is right up there with Mahomes and Allen in terms of freaky arm talent. He's also incredibly accurate, an outstanding processor, poised in the pocket, and a threat to make plays with his legs. The arrival of Kellen Moore as offensive coordinator should help unlock Herbert's true potential after two years of being held back by Joe Lombardi's system. This ranking won't be the least bit controversial by season's end.5. Lamar JacksonInjury issues and a mind-numbingly stale offense over the last two years probably led to Jackson being something of an afterthought in the consensus elite tier of quarterbacks. We won't make that mistake, though. Next to Mahomes and Allen, Jackson is probably the player opposing defensive coordinators least want to see on Sundays. He's the most dynamic running quarterback in football history, and despite what popular narratives might tell you, he's also a high-level passer. Todd Monken replacing Greg Roman as offensive coordinator - and the Ravens finally investing in the receivers - should have Jackson set for his best year since his 2019 MVP campaign. At that point, No. 5 may seem a little low.6. Jalen Hurts Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images Sport / GettyEagles fans will undoubtedly take this ranking as disrespect, but Hurts simply wasn't going to earn a top-5 spot based on one dominant season with the most talented roster in football. He's certainly headed in that direction, though. Hurts took a major step forward in 2022, showing improved poise in the pocket and far better results attacking the middle of the field. This growth as a passer, along with his unique skills as a runner, produced an MVP-caliber regular season and a Super Bowl performance that saw him go shot-for-shot with Mahomes. Anything close to a repeat in 2023, with some continued improvement seeing plays through from the pocket, could have Hurts rocket up this list once again.7. Trevor LawrenceLawrence's rookie season, as it turns out, was about as good as we could have expected with Urban Meyer running the show in Jacksonville. Fortunately for the Jaguars, the arrival of a real NFL coach is unlocking the potential of a generational quarterback prospect. Lawrence took off in the second half of 2022 under Doug Pederson, leading his team to one win after another with a big-time arm, impressive athleticism, and the poise of a veteran. The Jaguars adding a true No. 1 target in Calvin Ridley should allow him to take another significant step this season.8. Dak PrescottMuch like his predecessor Tony Romo, Prescott is the target of some wildly unfair narratives. Such is life as the leader of America's Team. But don't let some inflated one-year interception totals make you buy into these storylines. Prescott, despite a career-high 15 picks, finished the 2022 season ranked eighth in EPA/play, according to Ben Baldwin's database. He remains a supremely intelligent passer who operates with an elite pocket presence and impressive accuracy. The Cowboys are in good hands with Prescott under center, no matter how much talking heads want to read into Dallas trading a fourth-round pick for a backup.9. Aaron Rodgers Mike Stobe / Getty Images Sport / GettyA disappointing 2022 season makes Rodgers one of the most difficult quarterbacks to rank, but this feels like the absolute floor. He's still won two of the last three MVP awards. And while his mobility is falling off in a hurry, robbing him of an underrated aspect of his game over the years, the rest of his Hall of Fame skill set hasn't gone anywhere. Rodgers remains sharp as ever, and he'll still make the kind of jaw-dropping throws that we've come to expect from him. The 39-year-old should be in for a bounce-back performance as he now steps into a more favorable situation with the Jets.10. Matthew StaffordInjuries really started to pile up for Stafford following his Super Bowl season in Los Angeles, with a difficult 2022 campaign leading to some retirement rumors. But he's back for a third season with the Rams, and all indications are that he's ready to go. A fully healthy Stafford has always been a top-10 quarterback, even at the age of 35. The throws unlocked by his rare arm talent compensate for the occasional turnover blunder, and he's as tough as they come in the pocket.11. Kyler MurrayMurray starts the season on the PUP list while he recovers from last year's knee injury. He's Arizona's guy whenever he gets back, so we won't waste time ranking Josh Dobbs or Clayton Tune among starting quarterbacks. While this may seem high for a player who's had a rough few years - including having a homework clause added to his lucrative contract extension - Murray gets credit for the MVP-caliber flashes we've seen thus far. His arm talent and creative athleticism, in particular, are incredibly unique traits. He's certainly not blameless for the not-so-good stretches, but Kliff Kingsbury didn't give him much help, either. Murray will be fascinating to watch in a new system when healthy.12. Geno Smith Steph Chambers / Getty Images Sport / GettySmith's belated breakout was one of the best stories of the 2022 season. Labeled as little more than a backup after having the misfortune of playing the first two years of his career with the Jets, the former second-rounder couldn't get another look as a starter. When he finally did, Smith outplayed departed starter Russell Wilson and led the Seahawks to the playoffs. There was some minor regression down the stretch, but his arrival as a high-level starting quarterback was still very real. Smith finished his spectacular year ranked as the NFL's No. 1 deep passer, according to NextGen Stats.13. Kirk CousinsCousins is probably the poster boy of the Good But Not Great quarterback tier. That leads to more criticism than anything else, but there's something to be said about steady play under center - obviously, not everyone can have a top-five player at the most important position on the field. Cousins is an efficient distributor from the pocket and he's also improved his game under pressure every year in Minnesota. Replacing a player like this is much easier said than done.14. Tua TagovailoaDolphins fans may be expecting higher with their quarterback coming off the best season of his young career, but let's exercise some patience here. While Tua was remarkably efficient over the middle of the field, destroying opposing defenses on RPOs, he had the benefit of an extremely QB-friendly offense with the league's most dynamic receiver tandem. He also finished the season with more turnover-worthy plays than big-time throws, according to PFF. It's been an impressive rise, no doubt, and it may only continue with a healthy 2023 season. For the time being, however, the below-average arm talent and a lack of athleticism to create outside of structure keep Tua from top-10 status.15. Derek Carr Chris Graythen / Getty Images Sport / GettyCarr can be a frustrating player, and a bizarre 2022 season under a new coaching staff in Las Vegas did nothing to change that. His talent has always been abundantly clear, though, and he's approached top-10 territory when everything around him is right. Carr still has some issues dealing with pressure, but he takes care of the ball and has a lot more arm talent than many people realize - he's quietly found some aggressiveness and become one of the league's best deep-ball passers. Carr could be in for a bounce-back year with a strong supporting cast in New Orleans.16. Jared GoffGoff remains a solid quarterback who can be an efficient point guard when everything is right around him. He can make almost every throw in the book from a clean pocket, and he will generally make good decisions with the ball. A lack of athleticism outside of structure and some long-standing issues against pressure keep him from the upper levels of the middle tier, but neither is really an issue with the system and supporting cast Detroit has in place on offense. The Lions are confident they can win with Goff, and they're probably right.17. Deshaun WatsonThe Watson we saw in Houston would easily be among the top 10 on this list, and perhaps threatening the top five. He was one of the league's brightest young stars at the position, doing some incredible work outside of structure. The Watson we saw over 11 games in his first season with the Browns, a borderline unplayable starter, would be closer to the bottom five. This feels like a good middle ground with the understanding that more game reps, and maybe some schematic changes to better suit his strengths, might help him get back to the player he used to be.18. Ryan Tannehill Justin Ford / Getty Images Sport / GettyTannehill is an unspectacular but remarkably solid quarterback. He doesn't get nearly the love he deserves, with defense and the running game having long been the foundation for Tennessee's success, but you could do a whole lot worse under center. Tannehill's a good athlete with a strong arm who plays with consistent poise from the pocket.19. Russell WilsonWilson was absurdly bad in his first season with the Broncos. The one-and-done coaching staff deserves much of the blame for his performance, and that of the offense as a whole, but certainly not all of it. There seems to be a real chance that he's losing (lost?) the mobility that made him such a dynamic player outside of structure in Seattle. He's still got the arm, so the hope is that Sean Payton and an improved offensive line can set him up for a different kind of success. But a quarterback who has never really excelled throwing over the middle of the field - or working through multiple progressions - could have a tough time reimagining himself as a pocket passer.20. Justin FieldsYou've heard all about Fields' ability as a runner by now. The Bears finally gave him the freedom to make plays with his legs last season, and it resulted in some of the best rushing performances we've ever seen from a quarterback. Fields still has a long way to go as a passer, particularly in terms of processing speed and decision-making, but he's got the arm talent and accuracy. Any notable improvements from the pocket to complement his ultra-rare skillset as a ball-carrier could make Fields a superstar.21. Mac Jones Cooper Neill / Getty Images Sport / GettyThe Patriots offense was an abomination in 2022, but we're not putting that on Jones. Bill Belichick's decision to put his offense in the hands of Matt Patricia and Joe Judge will never make sense. That experiment is over, though, and New England is back to being a serious offense with Bill O'Brien as coordinator. This arrangement should go a long way toward helping Jones return to the path he created for himself in 2021, finishing as the Offensive Rookie of the Year runner-up. The former first-round pick is a smart, accurate passer who can handle pressure when the scheme gives him opportunities to do so.22. Jimmy GaroppoloJimmy G is an accurate passer with a decent arm and a lightning-quick release. For all his success in San Francisco, some decision-making lapses, a lack of creativity, and consistent injury issues had the 49ers looking for an opportunity to make a change. Carr is undoubtedly the better player, but Garoppolo, who is familiar with Josh McDaniels' offense from their days in New England, may well prove to be the better fit for the Raiders' system.23. Daniel JonesJones took a major step forward in his first season under Brian Daboll, but we need to see more before concluding that he's a long-term starter. A scheme designed to get the ball out of his hands quickly, due in part to some major shortcomings at receiver, led to Jones' league-low average depth of target at 6.4 yards. His seven big-time throws in 16 games, according to PFF, were matched by Jameis Winston in three starts. Jones can pick up first downs with his legs when necessary, but making one read and then taking off is not a sustainable way to play quarterback.24. Kenny Pickett Joe Sargent / Getty Images Sport / GettyPickett's rookie season wasn't all that encouraging. He threw just seven touchdowns against nine interceptions across 12 starts, with concerns about his arm talent and pocket presence hinting at a relatively low ceiling. Wins in six of his last eight starts created some cautious optimism, though, and there's been nothing but glowing reviews from training camp and preseason action. He's accurate with the football and has the ability to make things happen with his legs. If he can learn to extend plays within the pocket, and even slightly improve his arm strength, the Steelers may have something.25. Brock PurdyPurdy was the talk of the league last season, and deservedly so. He unlocked a new element for the 49ers' offense with a second-reaction playmaking ability that was never really an option with Jimmy G, and the moment was never too big for him. But let's pump the brakes on the hype train for a second. Purdy's small sample of success, impressive as it may have been for a rookie Mr. Irrelevant, came in a dream scheme and talent scenario for quarterbacks. The objective was to have Purdy run the offense and not make mistakes. To his credit, he did exactly that. But his pocket presence has to improve and some below-average physical tools cap his upside. We'd have to see a lot more - in a much more significant sample - to rank him any higher.26. Jordan LoveNobody truly knows what to expect from Love after three years sitting behind Aaron Rodgers, but it feels like there's a reason to be optimistic. Reports out of the Packers' camp were quite favorable, and he's followed that up with some impressive preseason play. Love was an interesting prospect coming out of Utah State largely due to some unique physical gifts. It'll be fascinating to watch him grow alongside a young Green Bay receiving corps.27. Bryce Young Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images Sport / GettyYoung gets the top spot among rookie quarterbacks on account of everything that made him a slam-dunk No. 1 pick in the first place. A tantalizing combination of vision, creativity, and accuracy makes the Alabama product truly incredible to watch. In truth, we could probably justify starting him a whole lot higher on this list. But let's see him do it at the NFL level first. It likely won't take long for his natural playmaking abilities to shine through.28. C.J. StroudBrighter days are ahead for the Texans. Stroud is a proficient pocket passer who has the arm talent and accuracy to make every throw on the field. He didn't always tap into his athleticism and creativity in college, but an incredible CFP semifinal game against the powerhouse Georgia defense hinted at some upside in that regard, too. Stroud has Pro Bowl potential, even if his transition from the Ohio State offense to a still-challenging situation in Houston takes some time.29. Anthony RichardsonSay it with me: Richardson is not a project. That may be the label he got in the pre-draft process, but it was a lazy one. The Florida product complements his otherworldly physical tools with an innate feel for pressure, some advanced pocket management, and the ability to manipulate defenders. Does that sound like a boom-or-bust player? Inconsistent footwork will lead to the occasional off-target throw, so that part will be a work in progress. But there's just so much to like about his prospects, and the elite rushing ability gives him a high floor for production in the meantime.30. Baker Mayfield Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images Sport / GettyThe best quarterbacks are those who are able to elevate the team around them when everything may not be perfect. Mayfield's swift fall from grace after a breakout 2020 season with the Browns offers an important reminder that top-tier offenses can occasionally prop up middling quarterbacks. Mayfield simply hasn't shown the ability to produce consistently outside of the most favorable situations to this point in his career.31. Desmond RidderIt would have been nice to get Ridder more than four games worth of reps during his rookie season - especially when Marcus Mariota did so little to hold him off. Here's what we know so far: Ridder is a good athlete who processes the game well as a passer. His arm talent is only average, though, and he tends to be far too hit-and-miss in the accuracy department. The latter part of his game could improve with time, but the Falcons will likely need to lean heavily upon their ground game for now.32. Sam HowellHowell got just one start as a rookie, completing 11 of 19 passes for 169 yards, one touchdown, and one interception en route to a Week 18 win. It was a nice way to get some momentum heading into Year 2 but ultimately didn't give us much to work with. Howell has always had a decent arm, good accuracy, and the ability to make some plays with his legs. But he's on the smaller side and needs to get better at operating on time from the pocket. Could Eric Bieniemy installing a Chiefs-like offense develop him into an average starter?Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

There's always room for more superstars in the NFL.With every new season comes the opportunity for another group of players to take the next step in their development and establish themselves among the league's elite.Let's take a look at the most interesting non-rookie breakout players for every NFL team.Arizona CardinalsRondale Moore, WRIt's slim pickings for the Cardinals - especially when the organization's not-so-subtle tanking efforts have seen two promising young players shipped out in the last two weeks. But Moore remains a player to watch. Kliff Kingsbury was never quite able to take advantage of the former second-round pick's explosiveness, and it's fair to assume the new staff will at least try to be more creative. Plus, the Cardinals spend most of their time playing from behind, so Moore could be poised for an obscene amount of targets.Atlanta FalconsDrake London, WRThe Falcons all but refused to throw the ball in 2022, leading the NFL in rushing attempts, yet London still managed to put up 866 yards and four touchdowns as a rookie. While the offense will remain focused on the run game - especially with No. 8 pick Bijan Robinson as the star of the show - the passing attack should be a far more reliable complement with Desmond Ridder as the new full-time starter under center. London's contested catch prowess and underrated movement skills make him a potential No. 1 target.Baltimore RavensRashod Bateman, WR Kathryn Riley / Getty Images Sport / GettyLast year was supposed to be the year Bateman truly broke out at the NFL level, but injuries once again got in the way. The flashes we've seen to this point, particularly with his ability to separate, have been incredibly encouraging. He'll have every opportunity to emerge as a star playmaker in the Ravens' passing game if he can stay healthy in 2023.Buffalo BillsJames Cook, RBCook's rookie season total of 500 rushing yards wasn't exactly spectacular until you consider it came on an impressive 5.7 yards per carry. Already one of the league's most explosive backs, the Georgia product racked up six runs of 20-plus yards on only 89 attempts. Damien Harris' presence will limit his opportunities in short yardage - and perhaps his touchdown numbers as a result - but there are still plenty of opportunities for Cook to make an impact in this Bills offense. Don't sleep on his abilities as a pass-catcher, either.Carolina PanthersJaycee Horn, CBYou're not going to get an argument out of us if you consider last season as Horn's true arrival after a rookie campaign lost to injury. But getting national recognition as one of the league's best corners would be a different level of breakout. There's no reason he can't get there this year after a sophomore campaign in which he had a 52.6 passer rating against and didn't give up a single touchdown, according to PFF.Chicago BearsJustin Fields, QB Michael Reaves / Getty Images Sport / GettyFields was a fantasy football darling last year once the Bears finally realized his value as a runner. The former first-round pick still has a long way to go as a passer, but we're betting that another year of development and a new group of weapons, headlined by top wideout D.J. Moore, will help him get there. Even becoming a league-average passer would make Fields a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses.Cincinnati BengalsDaxton Hill, SThe problem with getting drafted by a team as stacked as the Bengals is that even first-round draft status may not be enough to get you on the field. Stuck behind Jessie Bates and Vonn Bell, Hill started just two of his 15 games as a rookie. He owns a lead job heading into his sophomore season, however, and all indications are that he's ready to take off. A player with this kind of range in the deep middle could take Cincinnati's defense to another level.Cleveland BrownsElijah Moore, WRMoore didn't make much of an impact over his first two years with the Jets, but are we really going to put that entirely on him? The sad state of the New York passing game prior to this season is well known at this point. Moore was the No. 34 pick in 2021 for a reason. The young wideout even getting reps in the backfield during training camp can be taken as a sign that the Browns are already seeing the value in getting him the ball however they can.Dallas CowboysSam Williams, EDGE Michael Owens / Getty Images Sport / GettyThere were only so many opportunities for Williams as a rookie with Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence handling lead duties on the edge. He flashed in his limited reps, though, tallying 22 pressures and four sacks on just 165 pass-rush snaps, according to PFF. It's only a matter of time before a young pass-rusher with this much talent forces his way into the rotation, chewing into Lawrence's workload opposite Parsons. We're betting on it happening sooner rather than later.Denver BroncosJavonte Williams, RBWilliams' sophomore season was cut short due to a torn ACL, but avoiding the physically unable to perform list to start training camp suggests he's full steam ahead for Week 1. The former second-round pick remains one of the NFL's most promising young runners. Let's not forget that he racked up 901 rushing yards as a rookie despite an even split of carries with designated starter Melvin Gordon. The arrival of Sean Payton, along with the aggressive moves to rebuild the offensive line, should help Williams get right back to the trajectory he was on prior to the injury.Detroit LionsJameson Williams, WRWilliams' breakout season will be delayed due to a six-game suspension for a violation of the league's gambling policy, but how can he not be the pick here? The former Alabama star missed nearly all of his rookie season due to a torn ACL suffered in the national title game. His two touches in limited action after a Week 13 debut? A 41-yard touchdown catch and a 40-yard run. The Lions adding that kind of explosive playmaking ability to an expertly designed offensive system will be a headache for defensive coordinators around the league.Green Bay PackersZach Tom, OT Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyQuietly one of the best stories of Green Bay's 2022 season, Tom was an immediate contributor across the offensive line as a fourth-round rookie. He saw the majority of his work at left tackle in the absence of an injured David Bakhtiari and still finished the year having yielded just one sack and 12 pressures in 296 pass-blocking snaps, according to PFF. Tom appears poised to take over the starting right tackle job heading into Week 1. His continued success would be a major plus for Jordan Love in his first year as starting quarterback.Houston TexansDerek Stingley Jr., CBStingley's rookie season didn't get off to the best of starts, and that was a tough look considering the immediate All-Pro play the Jets got from Sauce Gardner. Let's give it some time, though. The LSU product made some major strides down the stretch, flashing some of the rare cover skills that made him worthy of the No. 3 pick. A much-improved Texans defensive front should make things easier on the secondary, putting Stingley in position for a major breakout.Indianapolis ColtsJelani Woods, TEThe Colts have their fair share of young players who could take a leap this season. If we're only going to talk about one, though, how about the most athletic tight end prospect we've ever seen? Woods, whose Relative Athletic Score is a perfect 10, should be in for an expanded role after a rookie season in which he started two of 15 appearances while recording 25 receptions for 312 yards and three touchdowns. A big-bodied target who can also make explosive plays downfield sounds like the perfect player for a rookie quarterback to lean on - though Woods will miss the first four games with a hamstring injury.Jacksonville JaguarsAndre Cisco, S Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyCisco was known for his range and ball production coming out of Syracuse in 2021. We began to see those skills translate after he earned a starting safety job last year, tying for the team lead with three interceptions and recording 10 passes defended. Cisco should only have more opportunities to get his hands on the ball with the Jaguars becoming a legitimate contender and approaching territory where they're defending leads far more often than they're chasing them.Kansas City ChiefsJustyn Ross, WRDon't be surprised if Ross earns a meaningful role among the top options in a crowded Chiefs receiving corps. He's a wildly skilled ball-winner and uniquely refined route-runner for his size, so it was only ever a matter of getting healthy. The former Clemson star appears to have overcome the injury concerns that resulted in him going undrafted in 2022. The rest of the league could soon be wondering how they let a player like this end up with Patrick Mahomes.Las Vegas RaidersTre'von Moehrig, SMoehrig was an impact player as a rookie for the Raiders in 2021, thriving as a single-high safety in Gus Bradley's defense. He then took a major step back in Patrick Graham's system last season, seemingly creating some doubt about his future with the team. But he got a vote of confidence when the Raiders didn't go out of their way to replace him, and all reports from camp label him as a major beneficiary of a more simplified version of the new defense.Los Angeles ChargersZion Johnson, G Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyJohnson had his share of ups and downs as a rookie, but who doesn't? There were plenty of positives, particularly as a run-blocker, that suggest he's going to be everything the Chargers were hoping for out of a first-round pick at guard. Another full offseason program to tighten up some of the finer points of his game in pass protection should have Johnson in position to emerge as a high-level starter this season.Los Angeles RamsVan Jefferson, WRJefferson was on an upward trajectory before injuries - and the overall disaster that was the Rams offense - held him back in 2022. Now the clear No. 2 option alongside Cooper Kupp, the former second-round pick could be poised for a belated breakout in the final year of his rookie contract. Jefferson has always been a gifted route-runner, and he's got more upside as a vertical target than people might think.Miami DolphinsJaelan Phillips, EDGEPhillips is already a phenomenal player but isn't exactly a household name among a deep group of superstar pass-rushers. The "breakout" label still fits if he reaches the heights we're expecting this season. Phillips spent more time in the offensive backfield than last season's seven sacks would suggest, finishing with 70 pressures and 17 quarterback hits, according to PFF. Improvements to the Dolphins' secondary should provide more opportunities to turn those close calls into sacks - and perhaps Pro Bowl consideration.Minnesota VikingsAlexander Mattison, RB David Berding / Getty Images Sport / GettyA Vikings team that plans on contending had no issue cutting 28-year-old Dalvin Cook despite making no major addition to the offensive backfield. While some may take that as a damning sign for a crumbling running back market, we're choosing to see it as the ultimate vote of confidence in Mattison. The former third-rounder has proven to be a capable runner in spot duty behind Cook over the last few years, and it's only fair to assume that the feature role will come with an uptick in pass-game usage, too.New England PatriotsMac Jones, QBOne could argue that a strong 2021 campaign was Jones' real breakout year, as he finished his debut season second only to Ja'Marr Chase in Offensive Rookie of the Year voting. But Jones and the rest of the Patriots offense fell off a cliff in 2022, causing many to question whether he was the long-term answer under center. We're choosing to bet on the promise we saw from the Alabama product as a rookie. Jones will be in a position to succeed now that New England has corrected its mistake and once again has a real offensive coordinator.New Orleans SaintsAlontae Taylor, CBTaylor is poised to take over as the primary slot corner after the Saints cut Bradley Roby. The 2022 second-round pick was quietly phenomenal across 13 games and nine starts last season, finishing second only to Sauce Gardner among rookies with a 58.3 passer rating allowed. He's got all the tools to maintain that kind of production in a full-time role, and the league-wide respect should soon follow.New York GiantsKayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettySome may consider Thibodeaux's output of four sacks as a rookie disappointing, especially compared to the 11 posted by fellow top 2022 pick Aidan Hutchinson. But the Giants edge rusher isn't nearly as far behind as the counting stats might suggest. Thibodeaux flashed dominant rush skills in his debut season, and although his 40 pressures were 13 shy of Hutchinson's mark, that output also came on 157 fewer pass-rush snaps. It won't be long before the sacks start piling up in a hurry.New York JetsJermaine Johnson, EDGEJohnson's pro career didn't get off to the best of starts, as he managed just 2.5 sacks last year as a rookie. But we're beginning to see signs of the pass-rush talent that made him a first-round pick. Johnson drew rave reviews all throughout camp, and he backed it up with a pair of sacks in limited action during the preseason. He figures to be a key contributor off the edge on a stacked Jets defensive line.Philadelphia EaglesNakobe Dean, LBDean never should've been available to the Eagles in the third round of last year's draft, but the projected first-rounder slid to the back half of Day 2 due to his medicals. Nothing ever came of the injury concerns, though, and the former Georgia star is now set to lead Philly's linebacker corps after contributing in a reserve role for all 17 games last season. A player with his rare instincts can be a star in any system - the sky is the limit when he's playing behind the deepest defensive line in football.Pittsburgh SteelersKenny Pickett, QB Joe Sargent / Getty Images Sport / GettyPickett didn't have the most captivating start to his career, throwing for a mere seven touchdowns against nine interceptions across 12 starts as a rookie. The quick game will always be his bread and butter, and he's shown the athleticism necessary to break the pocket and make plays on the move. Becoming an above-average starter at the NFL level will require improved poise to stick in clean pockets and go through his progressions. Perhaps the comfort and confidence that comes with more reps will allow him to unlock that all-important trait. We wouldn't bet against it.San Francisco 49ersDrake Jackson, EDGEJackson couldn't have asked for a better landing spot coming out of USC last year. Finding a deeper arsenal of rush moves was always going to be his key to success as a pro, and there are few teams that develop defensive linemen like the 49ers. Jackson will see plenty of one-on-one matchups as part of a star-studded front four, and a second offseason with defensive line coach Kris Kocurek should have him poised to take full advantage. Double-digit sacks aren't out of the question.Seattle SeahawksCharles Cross, OTCross hit the ground running as a rookie, immediately establishing himself as a solid starting left tackle. That'd be considered a breakout season for most, but not when there's this much more to unlock. With another offseason in the Seahawks program, he will have gotten stronger and refined his technique. That puts Cross in position to take a massive step forward. Don't be surprised if he's considered one of the league's premier pass-protectors by season's end.Tampa Bay BuccaneersJoe Tryon-Shoyinka, EDGE Julio Aguilar / Getty Images Sport / GettyTryon-Shoyinka hasn't quite become the star pass-rusher the Bucs were hoping to have gotten with the No. 32 pick in the 2021 draft, as he recorded just four sacks in each of his first two seasons. But Tampa Bay is expecting big things heading into Year 3, and it's easy to see why. Tryon-Shoyinka has always had impressive burst, power, and hand usage, flashing the ability to tie those skills together in his rush. Taking the next step and improving as a finisher could lead to a major improvement in the sack department.Tennessee TitansChigoziem Okonkwo, TEOkonkwo came out of nowhere to put together an impressive second half as a rookie, demonstrating the requisite elite athleticism to be a matchup player all over the field. His ability to pick up yards after the catch, most notably, makes him a unique big-play threat for the Tennessee offense. While the arrival of DeAndre Hopkins will likely eat into his target share, the Titans would be silly to not take advantage of their dynamic young tight end. There'll be plenty of downfield opportunities for Okonkwo off play action.Washington CommandersJahan Dotson, WRDotson's play as a rookie probably isn't getting enough attention, due largely to the bar being set so high by other young superstar receivers. But don't forget about the Commanders wideout on the ever-growing list of dynamic young playmakers. The former Penn State star earned a more significant role and may benefit from some improved quarterback play with Sam Howell heading into Year 2, so he could be set for a monster season.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.