Not long ago, the NFC South was the crowning example of parity in the NFL.From 2002-13, the division produced a new champion each year. However, a run of three straight titles by the Carolina Panthers forced the rest of the division to reload in order to take them down, leading to the Atlanta Falcons and their historically great offense rising to the top last year.Despite a heartbreaking loss to the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LI, the Falcons are still the team to beat - though many will question the vulnerability of their mental makeup until they prove otherwise.Matt Ryan and Co. return on offense, though they'll have to try and repeat their off-the-charts 2016 production without coordinator Kyle Shanahan, now the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers.So, does anyone have enough firepower to stand toe-to-toe with the Falcons and inject some parity back in the division? Here are the contenders for the crown in the NFC South:New Orleans SaintsWhen you have a future Hall of Famer under center, you always have a shot at a division title. But Drew Brees' heroics over the past several years haven't been enough to drag the Saints back into the postseason, so has the front office done enough to surround the star pivot with enough support for one last Super Bowl run?It all rests on the defense, which, for too long, has been one of the worst units in the league. After flirting with an offseason trade for Malcolm Butler, the Saints haven't significantly bolstered their secondary. Rookie cornerback Marshon Lattimore will help, but it remains to be seen whether the defense can raise its game to anywhere near the offense's level.Adrian Peterson was the headlining free-agent signing, and while the Saints seem dedicated to expanding their use of the run game, Brees' arm, not the legs of Peterson or Mark Ingram, will still be the offense's determining factor.The losses of defensive tackle Nick Fairley to a season-ending heart issue and left tackle Terron Armstead for four-to-six months due to shoulder surgery may not be fatal blows, but losing two key players before the start of training camp is tough for any team to recover from - especially for the top-heavy Saints.It's hard to imagine Brees and head coach Sean Payton failing to engineer one final shot at a second ring, but ultimately, the Saints' two biggest names need the rest of an already depleted roster to play above and beyond their abilities to challenge Atlanta.Tampa Bay BuccaneersEvery year, at least one team is marked as a sleeper contender thanks to a potentially dominant offense. This season, it's the Buccaneers, after the additions of DeSean Jackson, O.J. Howard, and Chris Godwin to a Jameis Winston-led unit that already boasted Mike Evans, Cameron Brate, and Doug Martin.If the Falcons' attack is explosive but clinical, exciting yet always in control, Tampa Bay's offense is like setting off fireworks in your backyard - potentially awe-inspiring and a hell of a lot of fun, but with the risk of burning down your whole house in the process.Winston is - like most burgeoning franchise quarterbacks - the key to the Bucs' postseason hopes. A significant third-year leap could spell doom for the rest of the division, but the gunslinger in Winston is always there, waiting to dash Tampa Bay's chances with an ill-advised throw into double coverage.Add in the potential for Jackson to go all Terrell Owens if he doesn't see enough of the ball and the questions that still surround Doug Martin - who is banned for the first three games - after a stint in rehab, and the Bucs might be the biggest boom-or-bust team in the NFL.Carolina PanthersThe Panthers looked on the path back to contender status after regressing severely in 2016, but Carolina may have shot itself in the foot by firing general manager Dave Gettleman days before the start of training camp.The Panthers are obviously still the same team on paper, but the shocking move raises concerns about issues behind the scenes and their potential to bleed onto the field.To challenge the Falcons, the Panthers need their two best players - Cam Newton and Luke Kuechly - to be 100 percent healthy. The defense isn't nearly the same animal without Kuechly roaming around the center of the field, and Carolina has recognized that Newton needs more help and a less demanding scheme, especially as he recovers from offseason shoulder surgery.Christian McCaffrey and Curtis Samuel were drafted with this change in mind, but such a radical philosophical shift on offense won't happen overnight.In the meantime, Kuechly and the rest of the defense must shoulder the load and rediscover their 2015 form - when Carolina ranked sixth in total defense - or suffer the same fate as last season.Also from this series

The 2017 NFL season inches closer, but more explanations for the Arizona Cardinals' disappointing 2016 season continue to flood in.Speaking on "The Rich Eisen Show" last week, Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians revealed that quarterback Carson Palmer began the year with arm fatigue."He's one of the hardest working dudes I've ever been around, so we have to pull the reins back on him," Arians said. "Last year, he came in to September, he had already wore his arm out by overthrowing all summer."The Cardinals began the year 1-3, including a four-interception performance by Palmer in Week 3 against the Buffalo Bills.Arizona eventually found a way to turn it around, but the damage had been done. They finished the year 7-8-1, which came on the heels of an encouraging 13-3 season."We found a nice regimen, (and by) November and December he was playing as good as he's ever played," Arians said of Palmer.Lump Palmer throwing too much in with losing to the Jimmy Garoppolo-led Patriots in Week 1 and playing "stupid at times" as reasons for the Cardinals regression.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Carolina Panthers tight end Greg Olsen balked at the suggestion that he had anything to do with general manager Dave Gettleman's firing.Gettleman was dismissed Monday and was replaced by Marty Hurney, who previously served as the Panthers' GM from 2002-12. Hurney will be operating on an interim basis.

Derek Carr has every reason to be supremely confident in teammate Khalil Mack, but this is taking it pretty far.Mack earned Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2016, recording 73 tackles, 11 sacks, five forced fumbles, and an interception while steering the Raiders to their first playoff appearance since 2002. Entering his fourth year, there's reason to believe Mack is still improving.Prior to the 2016 season, Carr predicted Mack would record 30 sacks over the course of the campaign. That would have shattered Michael Strahan's record of 22.5, set in 2001.Undeterred by Mack's 2016 sack total, Carr made the same prediction about his teammate's 2017 season in a Wednesday appearance on "Mad Dog Radio" with Adam Schein."I'm still sticking with my 30 number. Because we know this is going to blow up, I'm gonna say 30," Carr said, according to NFL.com's Kevin Patra. "That's if he doesn't get held ... if they start calling the holdings, if they start calling them like they should - I'm saying 30."Mack has 30 career sacks through three seasons. While it's highly unlikely he matches that in one season, he should remain among the top defenders in the NFL, and a veritable nightmare for opposing tackles.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Carolina Panthers head coach Ron Rivera has been given the unenviable task of bridging two regimes ahead of training camp, while trying to lead his club to a comeback season this fall.The Panthers shocked the football world by firing general manager Dave Gettleman on Monday after four seasons with the club, replacing him with Marty Hurney, who previously served as the team's GM from 2002-12.Rivera met with Hurney ahead of the latter's second stint with the club, and came away with a glowing review."It was a great exercise,” Rivera said to Albert Breer of The MMQB. "His comments, his objectives, his perspective, here's a guy that did it for as many years as he did, and he was out, but still an observer from the outside looking in. There are a lot of guys he has no attachment to, and some of his comments were pretty blunt, some of it was surprising."Most of it, he saw like I did, but there was probably 10 percent of the guys, seven, eight, nine guys, that he had a query on. And he'd ask, 'How about this?' It was a really good exercise."Two years ago, the Panthers rolled through the NFC, posting a 15-1 record before losing in Super Bowl 50 to the Denver Broncos. To the surprise of many analysts, the Panthers fell completely flat in 2016, slumping to a 6-10 record and finished last in the NFC South.Rivera believes the Panthers' immense struggles in 2016 stem from their loss to the Broncos in the season opener. The Panthers were presented with an opportunity to exact a measure of revenge, but blew a 17-7 third-quarter lead."I heard Bruce Arians talk about the impact of losing that first game," Rivera said. "Well, believe me, the impact for me was huge. I know there are people that'll say, 'Oh, you're gonna blame it on opening up against Denver.' Yeah, I am. That's part of it. It's not the whole reason, we could've righted the ship, but that took a lot of the wind out of our sails. That was a punch in the gut again."Armed with a rejuvenated offense and one of the most talented rosters in the league, the Panthers ought to be back in deep playoff contention. If not, expect Rivera and Hurney to have several meetings, none of which will be as amicable as their first one Wednesday.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Two driver's licenses belonging to O.J. Simpson, including one issued during his murder trial, will hit the auction block this fall.The licenses, which were acquired from one of Simpson's former bodyguards, are being sold by SCP Auctions, with bidding opening Oct. 4. One is dated June 8, 1995, while the other was issued Feb. 2, 2000.Related: Is O.J. Simpson memorabilia still worth anything?A representative for SCP Auctions told TMZ Sports the address listed on the 1995 license was Simpson's attorney's office at the time. SCP estimates it could fetch upwards of $5,000.(Courtesy: SCP Auctions)Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Le'Veon Bell turned down the opportunity to be the NFL's highest-paid running back, because he feels he's more than merely a running back.The Pittsburgh Steelers star was reportedly offered a long-term deal worth $42 million over five years, one that would have earned him more money than the highest-paid players at his position, but opted instead to play the 2017 season on the $12.1-million franchise tag. That figure is higher than every other running back's base salary for the year, but Bell's in search of more."I feel I should be valued as a player, not so much my position," Bell explained, according to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN."I make plays in the passing game, blocking, doing everything. I'm arguably the top running back in the NFL and the No. 2 receiver on the Steelers, even though I play running back. Their career receiving total versus mine, they don't have more yards than me."It isn't a unique approach. In 2014, then-New Orleans Saints tight end Jimmy Graham requested to officially be declared a receiver in order to be paid like one. Under the franchise tag, a player is paid the average salary of the top five highest-paid players at the position. Receivers are paid more handsomely than tight ends.Graham's request was denied by an arbitrator, and it appears Bell is looking to take up a similar fight."Hopefully down the line I can get valued at, not as much a guy who gets the ball 30 carries and that's it," he said.Bell did acknowledge that the contract he was offered by the Steelers before Monday's deadline was one beyond his wildest dreams."More money than you've ever seen in your life, it's hard to walk away from it," he said. "At the same time, I've never had that amount of money for 25 years."Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Atlanta Falcons first-round draft pick Takkarist McKinley is expected to miss the open of training camp, according to Dan Pompei of Bleacher Report.He underwent shoulder surgery in March for a torn labrum and continues to recover. He was initially expected to be full-go in time for training camp.Falcons training camp opens July 26 for both rookies and veterans.McKinley, a defensive end, was selected 26th overall in this year's draft.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Dez Bryant is throwing a party in his hometown of Lufkin, Texas, on Thursday and everyone's invited.The Dallas Cowboys wide receiver announced Wednesday on his Facebook page that he'd dropped $16,000 on food and drinks at Pinkerton's Barbecue and wants to round up some teams for a game of kickball."Trying to have fun before I head back to camp," he wrote. "EVERYONE free to join."

Jay Cutler is set to make his broadcasting debut, and he'll do so during a Chicago Bears game.The former Bears quarterback retired from football in the offseason before joining FOX Sports as an in-game analyst. He'll be paired in the booth with Kevin Burkhardt and Charles Davis, who revealed this week that their first game of the season will be the Bears' matchup with the Atlanta Falcons in Week 1, according to Madeline Kenney of the Chicago Sun Times.Cutler spent the past eight seasons with the Bears and could provide some unique insight on the team during the broadcast. He was released by Chicago in May, so he may not be inclined to hold back in his criticisms of the club.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

O.J. Simpson could be granted parole Thursday after serving nine years at Lovelock Correctional Center in Nevada for armed robbery and kidnapping. Simpson was charged following an incident on Sept. 13, 2007 in which he stormed into a Las Vegas hotel room with a group of men and made off with a hoard of sports memorabilia.The Pro Football Hall of Famer said his goal was to retrieve his own personal items, which he believed to be stolen, from collectable dealers at the Palace Station Hotel and Casino.Simpson was the precursor to modern-day stardom, capturing the Heisman Trophy at USC before emerging as the best running back of the 1970s, earning five consecutive All-Pro selections (1972-76) and winning NFL MVP in 1973. Simpson also seamlessly transitioned into the film industry as a part-time actor, appearing in multiple instalments of "The Naked Gun" franchise.At the height of his popularity, Simpson memorabilia fetched exorbitant fees. Prior to his 1995 double murder case, where he was acquitted of killing his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend, Ronald Goldman, Simpson's game-worn jerseys could reportedly be sold for five figures.But like his tarnished image, Simpson-related sports collectibles have depreciated significantly over the years. However, there remains at least a lukewarm market for signatures and souvenirs of "The Juice," whose NFL career ended in 1979."It's slightly been up a little, just because he's not out there signing stuff," said Mark Hansen, internet retail manager at Legacy Sports Cards in Las Vegas. "When you look at signed photos of him, most of the time, you're looking at $75 to $80."Hansen said most collectors are interested in signed helmets and photos stemming from Simpson's tenure with the Buffalo Bills and San Francisco 49ers."We've had a couple signed pieces over the last four, five years and they sold," Hansen noted.A prolific running back may not be the first thing that comes to mind when Simpson's name is mentioned today, but some collectors value his items on par with fellow Hall of Fame talents such as Jim Kelly and Jerry Rice, Hansen said.Although others aren't finding the Simpson market as robust.In many ways, according to Jeremy Brown of Ultimate Sports Cards and Memorabilia in Las Vegas, Simpson is not unlike some other exiled stars of yesteryear - a popular talking point, but not someone whose autograph people are willing to pony up for."It's kind of like smoke and mirrors. There's a lot of people talking about it, but there's not a lot of people buying it," Brown said. "You know, it's much like with Pete Rose, people come in and (say) like, 'Oh, Pete, you should be in the Hall of Fame, this and that,' and everybody's got a story, but not a lot of people these days are spending money on him."Same thing with O.J., they all come in and it's like, 'Hey, hey, you got an O.J. rookie card?' And they're not really serious about buying. There's a buzz out there but it doesn't necessarily translate into sales for us."Due to his complicated profile, there will always be interest in Simpson and, by extension, his playing career, Brown believes. Determining the real value of Simpson's collectibles market remains confounding for trade experts, however."He'll always have a market, he'll always have value but it's not necessarily in line with status, based on what he did on the field," Brown said. "Even early in his acting career, he had a great reputation, a great market, a lot of fans. But obviously, his off-field antics has kind of diminished that image. He'll always have somewhat of a market, but not where his days of being on the field do it justice, you know?"Simpson may be granted parole Thursday, but his legal history looms large like an ominous cloud."The only thing O.J. we would have would be cards, rookie cards, things such as that. I try to make it a point not to carry items from convicted felons," Brown said.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

With news of Arizona Senator John McCain's brain cancer diagnosis surfacing Wednesday, the Cardinals joined their fellow state sports teams in sending their best wishes to the politician and his family.Related: Coyotes show support for McCain after brain tumor diagnosisTeam president Michael Bidwill issued a statement on behalf of the Cardinals Wednesday evening.

While much has been made over the perception that players like Tom Brady get more protection than the likes of Cam Newton, NFL officials claim that even if they wanted to, they don't have the ability to give preferential treatment on the field.Tadd Haislop of Sporting News went to the annual referees' clinic in Irving, Texas this week to discuss the officiating of Newton in particular. While referees admit Newton is an exceptional player who is forcing them to alter the way they call games, they argue that with the speed of play, it's impossible to make judgments based on who the player is."In real time, there's not an ability to differentiate," Referee Terry McAulay said. "You're making a judgment in that instantaneous piece of time whether the rule has been violated. And that's all you can do. We judge each play. It doesn’t matter who the player is. When we feel there’s forcible contact to the head, we’re going to call it."Do we get them all right? We never have, never will. (But) if you're thinking about who it is, you've lost the battle."Related - VP of officiating to Newton: If you want more protection, stay in the pocketSince 2014, Newton hadn't been the beneficiary of a roughing the passer penalty until he was awarded the call in a Week 12 loss to the Oakland Raiders last season, despite taking hits on a regular basis.Referee Brad Allen recognizes that Newton is "an incredible athlete" who is "amping up" the game and says that his unique skill set forces officials to improve their training techniques.Related - Newton: Hits 'taking the fun out of the game,' refs not keeping me safe"Certainly since he's a more active player, it adds a dimension to his team that we have to watch versus a pocket passer who isn’t as mobile," said referee Carl Cheffers. "Our rule is cover that activity, and we're prepared to officiate those circumstances."Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Odell Beckham Jr. started the 2016 season in a rough way before ripping off his first career 100-catch season. How did the turnaround get started? Possibly from another polarizing pass-catcher.Appearing on Adam Schefter's podcast, Terrell Owens said he took it upon himself to reach out to Beckham when he noticed the New York Giants receiver was struggling to deal with criticisms and emotions. The retired receiver said he could see Beckham having similar problems to those he went through in his career."I basically told him the only way to quiet the critics, even if some of it is warranted, the only way to get them off your back is to go out there and play. Let your play do the talking for you," Owens said to Beckham, according to Ed Valentine of Big Blue Review. "The thing is if you're going out there performing poorly on top of what the media is saying you're the target, you're the topic every week, there's always something coming out of New York about Odell Beckham Jr."The only way you can stop that, or minimize some of the criticism is you go out there and play. And ball out. And I think he took some of what I said to heart."While Owens' advice seemed to have paid off, he said it was Beckham who did the work; Owens just pointed him in the right direction."I don't take credit for anything because this guy was raised, I'm sure, the right way," said Owens. "He's a God-fearing man, I understand he has parents that raised him the right way."In that aspect of it he's taken care of, so now he just has to police himself, be the adult, be a professional, be the person, be the football player that he's been blessed to be and let everything else take care of itself."Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Wes Welker suffered at least six documented concussions over his 12-year NFL career, but he really doesn't want to think about the effects right now.The former receiver, who is now a member of the Houston Texans' coaching staff, says he prefers to live life in the moment rather than worry about what dangers could be around the corner."I can't sit here and worry about it; I don't want to live my life that way," Welker told ESPN's Mike Reiss. "Is there a possibility (of long-term implications)? Maybe, I don't know. We'll have to see how everything kind of happens, I guess."I'm going to try to do everything I can to put myself in a position where I'm healthy and hopefully good. If I'm good, then great. At the same time, I'm not going to live my life worrying if my brain is going to explode at any second."The 36-year-old was known for his toughness and ability to sustain a hit, which helped him produce five seasons with at least 110 catches and 1,100 yards between 2007 and 2012. As that style of play equated to a slew of head injuries, Welker doesn't totally regret his attitude, but he admits he could have been smarter."I don't know if I'd really change much - who I am or how I went about my business - because a lot of that aggressiveness and the reason (for success) was because of the way I played," said Welker. "Do I wish, looking back, (that I) would have gone out of bounds or gotten down, earlier in my career especially? There's always a warrior mentality, but trying to be smart about some of those things; I mean, yeah, I probably would have."When you don't have any concussions and you're just kind of going out there recklessly, you're 20-something years old, you don't think about it. You just go play."Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Aaron Rodgers is not concerned by outside opinions.After ex-Green Bay Packers receiver Greg Jennings blamed his former team's lack of title on their defense and head coach Mike McCarthy, Rodgers attempted to put that theory to bed."I think it’s important that when you’re thinking about comments coming from outside the facility, especially by people who haven't been around the facility in a number of years, you've got to take that with a grain of salt," Rodgers told Lance Allen of TMJ4."We're concerned with the opinions of our players and our coaching staff and our organization."Jennings last played for the Packers in 2013 and has been a regular critic of the team since leaving. Rodgers may have learned to tune out Jennings' criticisms, but he's also been well-versed in defending McCarthy."I've made it pretty well known how I feel about Mike," said Rodgers. "He’s our leader and ... we follow his lead, and we love Mike. We believe in him, and he believes in us, and so we’ve got his back."- With h/t to ProFootballTalkCopyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Technology is neat.The Baltimore Ravens have found a new way to make practices safer and more like real games by signing a one-year contract with Mixed River, a tech company that creates "mixed reality" technology, according to Jeff Barker of the Baltimore Sun.The Ravens' new partnership will see the team practice with holographic players like a real-life Madden game, notes Barker. Players will be able to view life-sized holographic opponents and watch plays run out of their own playbook."Right now, what you are seeing is a holographic football team coming at you and getting into their formation," said CEO of Mixed River Jim Pietila while demonstrating the technology. "You can see (Ben) Roethlisberger and everybody over here to the left. Antonio Brown is right here."The next thing is to have Antonio Brown coming at us at game speed."The NFL's VP of football strategy and business development Damani Leech sees Mixed River's technology as a great way for players to prepare themselves for gameplay without putting their bodies at risk."One of the attractions to the technology is the ability to get those mental reps that don’t involve contact," said Leech. "I think you see it with other technology - with the robotic tackling dummies to allow you to improve your tackling form without hitting another person."Players will be able to view the "mixed reality" football with 360 degree headsets. Here is a short video providing a look at how players can increase their mental preparedness:- With h/t to CBS SportsCopyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

It's not a great start.After missing his team's OTAs and minicamp this spring, Los Angeles Chargers rookie Mike Williams is in danger of becoming the latest first-round receiver to have his career sabotaged before it even started.Williams may reportedly require surgery on a herniated disk in his back that would cause him to miss his first NFL season. While the Clemson product is feeling better after receiving a second epidural, back injuries are among the easiest to re-aggravate and he is still expected to start the year on the PUP list just to be safe."This may be a lot more serious than people thought," said a source familiar with the injury to ESPN's Adam Schefter.While no one is or should be suggesting Williams ignore the injury and tough it out for his rookie campaign, his career could take a huge hit before his first NFL snap if he starts it off on the sidelines.In the previous two drafts, three receivers were taken in the first round with high expectations of becoming the next Larry Fitzgerald, DeAndre Hopkins, or Dwayne Bowe (in a good way), but missed their rookie seasons with major injuries.Kevin White was selected with the seventh overall pick of the 2015 draft by the Chicago Bears before developing a stress fracture in his shin that kept him on the sidelines for the entire 2015 season. He had a steel rod inserted into his left tibia during the 2015 preseason, but White's situation turned worse in 2016. After catching 19 passes for 187 yards through the first four games of the season, the 25-year-old's year ended again, this time due to a fractured left fibula - the same leg he had surgery on the summer prior.Chicago went from viewing White as a potential replacement for All-Pro Brandon Marshall to just another guy who may or may not catch a ball thrown his way. The Bears signed four veteran receivers to their roster this offseason, showing their lack of faith that White will be who they drafted him to be.Also, a part of the 2015 first-round draft class, Baltimore Ravens receiver Breshad Perriman has had a little more luck than White, but not much. The 23-year-old Central Florida product suffered a bad PCL sprain on his first day of training camp and was forced to start the year on the PUP list before finishing it on injured reserve. Perriman had a second scare in June 2016, partially tearing his ACL and undergoing surgery. Thankfully, he was able to recover in time for the beginning of the 2016 season.However, Perriman struggled to make an impact in the Ravens' passing attack, catching just 33 passes for 499 yards through 16 games. He only made more than three receptions once all season and that game did not come until Week 17. Perriman's role this season has become complicated with Jeremy Maclin and Mike Wallace expected to be the team's starting outside receivers, while Michael Campanaro has found proficiency from the slot.The most recent first-round receiver to miss his rookie year is Washington Redskins' Josh Doctson, who was selected 22nd overall in 2016. The jury is still out on Doctson, who made just two catches in two games last year before surrendering to an Achilles injury initially suffered in OTAs. The injury started as something not to worry too much about, but escalated into a "very concerning" issue that killed his season.Washington let its top two receivers walk in free agency, signalling some level of faith in Doctson, but had him working with the second-team offense in OTAs. The TCU product looks to be afforded another chance mainly because his team needs him to round out their receiver corps, which may not be the same case for Williams.The Chargers have one of the deepest receiving units in the NFL with veterans Keenan Allen, Travis Benjamin, Tyrell Williams, and Dontrelle Inman all having at least one year's experience in their system. The team is used to dealing with injuries, though it probably wishes it weren't after seeing Allen go down the last two years and being unable to have a first-round pick play all 16 games since Melvin Ingram in 2012.If Williams needs to miss the 2017 season, his team certainly won't abandon him, but if his injuries become a regular occurrence (like White's), the Chargers are well set up to succeed without his services. Back injuries are known to be a troubling, player-changing issue. Williams needs to be careful with his recovery, but also keep in mind that his career could essentially be over before he makes his first catch if he isn't back to full health before his sophomore campaign.(Photos courtesy: Action Images)Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Oakland Raiders linebacker Khalil Mack couldn't have received a more fitting endorsement.The reigning Defensive Player of the Year inked a deal with Mack Trucks on Wednesday, adding to his portfolio."Whenever we were on the road when I was younger, I remember my father pointing out the trucks that had Mack on them," Mack said to ESPN's Darren Rovell.Mack's name helped draw recognition by the brand, but it wasn't the lone factor behind the endorsement deal."Obviously we share the same name, but what really drew us to him, based on what we had heard, was that we seemed to share the same fundamentally American values of hard work, family, honesty and humility," John Walsh, Mack's vice president of global marketing and brand management, said Wednesday.Mack credited Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green for suggesting the idea."He just texted me one day and said, 'You should do a deal with Mack,'" said Mack.The NBA's and NFL's Defensive Player of the Years teaming up to endorse a truck is all too symmetrical and beautiful, and it's possible the duo could continue to collaborate on new projects.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Dallas Police Department suspended its investigation of Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott's alleged assault at a nightclub due to an inability to contact the victim and having no witnesses come forward, according to a statement.

Marty Hurney may be taking over the Carolina Panthers' front office in an interim role, but he's coming in with the confidence of a full-time general manager.The Panthers announced Hurney's return to the GM post Wednesday after he held the same position from 2002 to 2012. Hurney hasn't been working as an NFL executive since being fired by the club, but he believes he will be able to make an impact, even if he's only in Carolina temporarily."I would not come here if I did not think I could help in the interim," Hurney said Wednesday, according to his team's website. "I would not come here if I did not think I had the energy, the knowledge, the insight that it will take to help this organization."I can only do it one way; full bore, full go. I am interim, and I have that role, but I am going to attack it and do what I think is best for this organization."Hurney believes he's a changed man - or at least a changed GM - since last working for the club. He had gotten the Panthers into a tough cap situation before his dismissal, though he says he's altered his approach after examining his mistakes."I bring a different perspective than I had before. I look at things differently now," Hurney said. "The biggest thing, making sure the analytical part of my brain takes over the emotional part of my brain. When you work so closely with people, you are going to create bonds. You are going to create loyalties. When I look back, and I look back at some of the mistakes, it might have been that the emotional part of my brain took over."What the great general managers do, the analytical part of their brain makes their decisions, not the emotional part."Hurney's newfound approach sounds wise on paper, but it may lead to him staying with the team solely on an interim basis. While owner Jerry Richardson has yet to provide a reason for Dave Gettleman's firing Monday, former Panthers players have pointed to the former GM's lack of interpersonal skills and tendency to be overly analytical as potential reasons for the decision.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Marshawn Lynch is embarking on a new endeavor as a restaurant owner this summer.The Raiders running back will be taking over Scend's Restaurant and Bar, an Oakland-area soul restaurant that's been around since 1967, following the retirement of longtime owner Cassie Nickelson in August."I'm comfortable with him and I like him," Nickelson, 80, told KTVU.The two also go way back."When he was 9-years-old, he came across the street to get a hamburger and French fries," she recalled. "Twenty-five-cent French fries and a 75-cent hamburger."Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Mike Williams may require season-ending back surgery to repair a herniated disk, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.Williams was selected with the seventh overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft.It was reported by NFL.com that Williams will likely begin training camp on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.The 22-year-old underwent a second epidural in hopes of expediting his recovery, but the Chargers are preparing for his absence at training camp, Schefter reports.The Chargers are unsure when Williams suffered the back injury but diagnosed him with a herniated disk after the first rookie minicamp session.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Dallas Cowboys' rookie training camp opened Wednesday, providing local media an opportunity to speak with head coach Jason Garrett about some team matters that have made the news recently.Of particular note is running back Ezekiel Elliott who may be handed a suspension for a 2016 domestic violence accusation, was reportedly involved in an altercation at a Dallas bar on the weekend, and is appealing a speeding conviction. Garrett told reporters that he intends to speak with Elliott on Friday, a day before veterans report to training camp.Garrett didn't speak to any specific events, but said the Cowboys believe in the 2016 rushing leader as a person and player and will provide support to his youngsters "to help them make great decisions to grow."As a rookie, Elliott led all backs with 1,631 rushing yards and added 15 touchdowns on the ground.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Fans in the Bay Area have been buying in - literally - to the idea of Marshawn Lynch beasting in Oakland Raiders colors.The unretired running back had the top-selling NFL jersey in May, according to data released by NFLShop.com.Lynch wasn't just the top-selling jersey in California - he dominated the entire western part of the country and some of the Midwest, including several states that have their own NFL team:

The Chicago Bears signed their first-round draft pick, quarterback Mitchell Trubisky, to his rookie contract on Wednesday. The signing came on the team's first day of rookie training camp.

The Jacksonville Jaguars will bring free-agent tight end Gary Barnidge in for a workout, a source informed Mike Kaye of First Coast News.Barnidge was released by the Cleveland Browns in April and has sat on the open market ever since.He's a year removed from a Pro Bowl 2015 season in which he registered 1,043 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. He followed those career highs with 612 yards and two touchdowns in 2016.The Jaguars currently have Marcedes Lewis, Mychal Rivera, Neal Sterling, Ben Koyack, Alex Ellis, and Caleb Bluiett at the position.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Detroit Lions no longer want to dwell on their successes from the now-distant past.The team hung banners from the Ford Field rafters celebrating its greatest accomplishments back in 2012, including the four NFL Championships the Lions won back in 1935, 1952, 1953, and 1957. But the banners were also mocked for listing the Lions' relatively few playoff appearances.Now, the playoff banners have been removed:

Le'Veon Bell may come to regret betting on himself.The Pittsburgh Steelers star turned down a deal worth a reported $12 million per year - with $30 million over the first two seasons and $42 million over three - opting instead to play under the franchise tag in 2017.Bell will now earn $12.1 million fully guaranteed this year, before hitting unrestricted free agency again next spring. Or, more likely, he'll receive the franchise tag again next year (at a price of $14.5 million) and again be faced with a scenario in which he can only negotiate with the Steelers."I'm not in a rush to sign for something I'm not valued at, if I feel I'm worth more than what they are offering me," said Bell - who once rapped that he wanted $15 million per season - of his decision to turn down the offer."The running back market definitely took a hit, and I can't be the guy who continues to let it take a hit," Bell said. "We do everything. We block, we run, we catch the ball. Our value isn't where it needs to be. I'm taking it upon myself to open up some eyes and show the position is more valuable."Bell's not wrong about the sorry state of the running back market, and he's probably not wrong about the importance of the position, but he might be misguided about how to best rehabilitate the wage scale for himself and his peers.As OverTheCap's Jason Fitzgerald noted, with Bell already due to earn $12.1 million this year he'll have to make $18 million next season to justify turning down the Steelers' offer and its $30 million over the first two campaigns.It's next to impossible to imagine any running back making $18 million per year when the current high-water mark for annual earnings at the position (excluding Bell's $12.1-million tag) is LeSean McCoy's $8 million.The Steelers' offer likely didn't include guaranteed money after Year 1 - because the Steelers never guarantee money in later years - but that shouldn't have impacted Bell's decision because any scenario that would lead Pittsburgh to cut him after 2017 would also surely prevent him from earning close to $18 million on the open market.The Steelers have already made Bell the NFL's highest-paid runner this season by millions. Their offer of $42 million over three years would have significantly outdistanced recent deals signed by McCoy ($27.3 million over the first three years) and Doug Martin ($21.8 million over three years). In effect, it would have reset the running back market and accomplished Bell's stated goal.Clearly, there's more at play here.What that is remains unclear. It could be that Bell truly believes he's worth quarterback (or elite-defender) money and won't sign for less. If that's the case, he'll be sorely disappointed down the road.More likely, the Steelers and Bell clashed over language regarding guarantees or suspensions. Bell has endured more than one major knee injury and understandably might demand guaranteed money beyond the first year of his deal, despite the Steelers' policy. Bell also began the previous two seasons under multi-game suspensions for drug-related violations and remains a suspension risk - something the Steelers surely sought protection against.Even in the event of another major injury or suspension, the Steelers are likely to apply the franchise tag to Bell again next season at the manageable price of $14.5 million.And, even if Bell shatters records this season, $14.5 million will serve as the baseline for negotiations next summer. It's hard - maybe impossible - to see a scenario where the Steelers offer Bell significantly more money in a year's time than they just did. And it's easy to imagine them offering much less - like, for instance, if Bell were to be hurt or suspended again.All of this makes Bell's decision to reject the Steelers' offer puzzling. At best, he'll probably find himself with nearly the same offer next summer.Bell deserves to be the NFL's highest-paid running back, and he almost certainly will be for the next two years. But he may have to "settle" for being highest paid by a lot, not highest paid by a mile.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Warning: Story contains course language.Former NFL players Chad Johnson and Asante Samuel may be squaring off in the boxing ring in the future.Johnson, who recently campaigned to fight on the Floyd Mayweather-Conor McGregor undercard, made it known Tuesday on Twitter that he'll welcome anyone who wants to challenge him to a match.

Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Dante Fowler was arrested Tuesday night in Florida for simple battery and mischief, Greg Auman of the Tampa Bay Times reports.The event occurred in an apartment complex parking lot when a man commented on Fowler's driving, according to Mike Kaye of First Coast News. Fowler then got out of his vehicle, hit the man, and proceeded to step on his glasses. He also grabbed a bag of groceries from the man and threw it in a nearby lake.Fowler drew misdemeanor charges for the incident and was released at around 1:40 a.m. on a $650 bond.The Jaguars released a statement Wednesday morning confirming they are aware of the situation and gathering more information."The team has been in communication with Dante. No further comment will be made at this time," the statement reads.Fowler was the Jaguars' third overall draft pick in 2015. He missed his entire rookie season after tearing his ACL during the first day of rookie minicamp but played in every game in 2016, recording 32 tackles and four sacks.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Carolina Panthers announced on Wednesday morning that former general manager Marty Hurney will return to the team as its interim GM for the 2017 season.The move comes after Dave Gettleman was fired on Monday.Hurney previously served as the team's general manager from 2002-12. During that time, the Panthers went 90-102 and made their first Super Bowl appearance in 2003. He was fired after a 1-5 start to the 2012 season."I never lost the connection with the organization," Hurney said in a team release. "I've gained a lot of perspective and have looked at things in different ways. I think I can help this team in a lot of areas. I think I've grown. And I feel I'm better prepared to come in this time and do a better job than I did over the 12 years I was general manager last time."Hurney hired the team's current head coach Ron Rivera in 2011 and drafted many of its star players, including Cam Newton and Luke Kuechly.While fulfilling the duties of his role, Hurney will also aid in the team's search for its next general manager."Marty is the perfect person to help us in the interim," Panthers owner Jerry Richardson said in a separate release. "He worked with us for 15 years and understands the culture we have here. He had a lot to do with the core of our team being in place. I'm thankful that he is willing to help us in this transition period."Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Fans may be surprised to hear Terrell Owens is thrilled that celebrations are again encouraged in professional football.One of the league's most iconic receivers and end-zone dancers spoke with ESPN's Adam Schefter on his "Know Them From Adam" podcast and said he's looking forward to seeing what today's athletes can concoct."I think it's a great thing. I think the league realized we're in an era now where ... these fans, they're starting to have a voice," Owens said. "They have to do something to increase or get back in tune with what the fans want."Owens said he celebrated touchdowns as a means of bringing some enjoyment to fans and adding an element of excitement to games. And he knows some of the league's current top receivers will be able to carry the torch."I think it's a great thing, especially when you have guys like Antonio Brown, Odell Beckham Jr.," Owens said. "Really those two are the only guys that I can really think of that are gonna probably take advantage of this celebration rule.""Really, that was my motivation for doing the touchdown celebrations, I couldn't celebrate if I couldn't get in the end zone," he added. "I was trying to one-up myself every time I stepped on the football field."Owens had a number of memorable celebrations during his 16-year career, but two stood out in his eyes."Probably the Sharpie or the pompoms. Those were the ones that were really impromptu," he said.Owens famously pulled a Sharpie out of his sock after scoring a touchdown during a 2002 Monday night game, before signing the ball and tossing it to a fan. Later in that same season, he hauled in a TD against the Green Bay Packers and celebrated by grabbing a pair of pompoms from a cheerleader."As I was going into the end zone, I literally was thinking about what to do," Owens said.Owens also revealed to Schefter that he didn't net an endorsement deal with Sharpie for his antics.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Former NFL wide receiver Terrell Owens won't be playing in Ice Cube's 3-on-3 basketball league.Despite the impassioned plea from Owens, the BIG3 founder told TMZ Sports he's holding firm on the league's rule of only giving spots to former NBA players.Related: Terrell Owens appeals for spot in Ice Cube's BIG3 leagueThe 43-year-old Owens played basketball in high school and college and has participated in a number of celebrity basketball games. He recently revealed in an interview with Josh Peter of USA TODAY Sports that if he could choose again between a career in football or basketball, he'd go with the latter.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Lions were so close to winning their first division title since 1993 before the Packers rode in and stopped the show en route to an NFC Championship appearance last season. Green Bay needed a six-game wining streak to take the division crown, but an improved roster could put them in front from the get-go in 2017.Detroit also improved its squad in its second year under general manager Bob Quinn, but last season's success stemmed from a clutch streak of wins that will be hard to replicate.The Vikings had a hot start last season, but cooled off quickly as the weather chilled, while the lowly Bears succumbed to a franchise-worst campaign.Will the Packers be back representing the north in the playoffs or will a new favorite take top place? Here are the contenders for the crown in the NFC North:Green Bay PackersIt's Aaron Rodgers' division and everyone else is just living in it.The Packers lost one key player on both sides of the ball this offseason, but made enough valuable additions to make up for both. The signing of Martellus Bennett will give Rodgers and his offense a new dimension they've been craving for years. Drafting Kevin King and bringing back Davon House gives the secondary some much needed depth.Giving Ty Montgomery a full offseason at running back and drafting a trio of rushers could rejuvenate Green Bay's running game, and open up space for the likes of Bennett, Jordy Nelson, and an emerging Davante Adams.Coming within a game of Super Bowl LI has lit a fire under the Packers this offseason. It's been seven years since they beat the Steelers in Super Bowl XLV, and Green Bay will be right in that hunt again in 2017.Detroit LionsMatthew Stafford worked his magic to get the Lions into the playoffs last year and was rewarded with some solid help for the future.An overhauled offensive line will make a big difference for Stafford and Detroit's offense, even without left tackle Taylor Decker. Signing T.J. Lang from the Packers could give the Lions an edge in their rivalry, and a healthy backfield will take some pressure off Stafford.Darius Slay isn't the only productive player in Detroit's secondary anymore, which is key against the likes of Green Bay and Minnesota's expanding pass attack.There were lots of positives to take away from the 2016 season before GM Bob Quinn executed another Patriot-esque offseason. The Lions may not be able to topple the almighty Rodgers-led Packers, but they're getting close.Minnesota VikingsThere are still many questions to be answered about the Vikings' upcoming season.How healthy is Teddy Bridgewater? What's the long-term plan for Sam Bradford? Did the offensive line actually get better? How good is Dalvin Cook? Will the defense be able to hold up over a full season? Do Mike Zimmer's eyes work?What we do know is that they have moved on from the Adrian Peterson era. They're still set up to be a run-first and solid-defense type of team, though the offensive line is very much a question mark and we don't know how much work the rookie Cook will get.Expect the Vikings to compete most games, but point-scoring could be their Achilles' heel, and it's hard to win games if you don't score points.Chicago BearsAfter the worst 16-game season in franchise history, the Bears have nowhere to go but up. However, they have some tough customers to get past in the NFC North.Many additions were made during the offseason - particularly at receiver and defensive back - but the biggest shift will be transitioning from the Jay Cutler era to the Mike Glennon-Mitch Trubisky period. Whoever starts out of the gate (probably Glennon) is in for a rough ride while the offense gets to know one another as the Falcons, Buccaneers, Steelers, and Packers will be their opening tests.Perhaps a Cinderella story will present itself, but things don't look immediately optimistic in Chicago for 2017.Also from this series

Without fully guaranteed salaries, NFL contracts can be a misconceiving mess. Richard Sherman wants you to know that.After Le'Veon Bell reportedly turned down a five-year deal worth $42 million over the first three years, Sherman applauded the Pittsburgh Steelers running back for making a stand for better value Tuesday night.

Mervin Cabe, a 25-year-old Miami man, tried to have some fun at the expense of former NFL receiver Chad Johnson on Friday, according to Jason Auslander of The Aspen Times, citing court documents.Cabe told employees of a Louis Vutton store in Aspen that he was Johnson, and used an Apple Pay account to purchase over $18,000 worth of goods after his credit card was denied.According to the affidavit, Cabe also told police officers that he was Johnson, though he could not produce a correct date of birth and refused to show them his declined credit card or Apple Pay account. Officers said he "kept making excuses and repeating the same nonsensical story," before eventually admitting his guilt.Cabe was charged with felony counts of identity theft and unauthorized use of a financial transaction device.- With h/t to Adam SchefterCopyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Casey Hayward didn't feel very respected after the Green Bay Packers let him walk out the door in 2016, and after leading the league in interceptions as a Charger last season, he's still not getting the appreciation he wants.The 27-year-old cornerback told Bleacher Report's Tyler Dunne that his statistics are "bananas" compared to the players considered by most observers to be the best at his position. With 16 interceptions and only six touchdowns given up in his five-year career, he might have a point."When you put my numbers up against other people's numbers," said Hayward, "it's crazy that people aren't saying my name."Hayward tweeted in May that he felt his statistics spoke for themselves in 2016.

Matt Ryan must be tired of answering questions about the Atlanta Falcons' blown 25-point lead in Super Bowl LI, but he's learning to use the sour memory as motivation.The 32-year-old admitted earlier this offseason that he watched the loss several times to get a better understanding of what happened and move on, though he doubts it will ever leave his memory."I felt like I took a couple weeks to get away from it and spend time just relaxing and kind of disappearing for a bit," Ryan told SiriusXM NFL radio. "But when I got back and we started to work on this 2017 season and the team that we have now, all of my focus goes there."I think you'll always have a little bit of that scar that kind of drives you and that's fine. Never let go of that, but our focus is 100 percent about what we're doing and what we're moving forward to."Ryan's best chance to stop the 28-3 questions (and jokes) will be to perform on the field. The Falcons open their season Sept. 10 against the Chicago Bears.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Speaking on a panel with the MLB, NHL, and NBA commissioners at Tuesday's "GameChangers: Creating the Future of Sports" conference, Roger Goodell nixed the idea that kids need to commit to one sport to make it to the pro level."I don't think there's anything worse than that," the NFL commissioner said of youth sport specialization, according to John Ourand of Sports Business Journal.Goodell added that he believes kids can safely play football, and that he would want his own kids to play, though his twin daughters don't participate.A recent viral clip may call his safety claim into question.

Carolina Panthers fans, players, coaches, and executives can complain about Dave Gettleman's late-offseason firing all they want, but they can't change the past.The Panthers still have a season to play, and they certainly aren't going to call it a day because their front-office leader is no longer in place.Gettleman's absence really shouldn't affect the Panthers' on-field product, with the draft and free agency in the rear-view mirror. However, the Panthers need someone to be at the helm with training camp days away and several key veterans entering contract years.Enter Marty Hurney.The former Panthers GM met with owner Jerry Richardson on Tuesday and is reportedly expected to be named Gettleman's interim successor.Hurney first came to the Panthers' player personnel department in 1997, was hired as GM in 2002, and was eventually fired after a 1-5 start to the 2012 season. While he has been out of football since that time, he racked up a resume that could be ideal for the Panthers and their owner.

Hall of Fame running back Tony Dorsett provided Ezekiel Elliott with some candid, simple advice Tuesday: minimize your inner circle.Elliott has been the subject of controversy throughout the summer, garnering headlines for his alleged involvement in a bar fight Sunday evening. The running back is reportedly appealing a speeding conviction and found himself in hot water again when he pulled a woman's shirt down, exposing her bare breast during a St. Patrick's Day parade.Dorsett, who starred for the Cowboys from 1977-87, told Elliott to cut out the negative influences in his life."It’s like an avalanche," Dorsett told Newy Scruggs of NBC5. "When it comes down it could come crushing down on you, so you’ve got to be careful. You’ve got to pick and choose your people. That's the unfortunate part about it is the fact that there’s a lot of people when you get that stardom they want to be a part of it. They want to be seen with you. They want to do this with you. They want to do that with you."Sometimes you got to be a little standoffish. You can be appreciative, 'Thank you for all of this, but no I don't want to go there. I'm not going there. I'm not going to do this.' Plus you get caught up into positions. Then you go to a party. You don't know these people, but some people take you to a place. You don't know who they are, and then something goes down. The first thing they're going to do is not going to be their names that's splattered all over the Dallas Morning News. It's going to be his name."Elliott is being investigated over domestic violence allegations and could still be suspended before the start of the season.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Ron Rivera didn't have any inside information about his general manager's firing.The Carolina Panthers head coach told Scott Fowler of the Charlotte Observer he was "surprised" the team let go of Dave Gettleman on Monday after four seasons, but he knows there is little use in dwelling on the past."The decision was made, and that’s what we're going to do," Rivera said. "The biggest thing is Dave did a great job for us. He helped me to grow as a coach, he helped to put the final pieces of the puzzle together and he helped us get to the Super Bowl."He added: "I talked to Dave yesterday because I wanted to make sure he knew I appreciated everything he did for me."Rivera feels Gettleman left the team in a position to win in 2017, and now feels it is his responsibility to finish what he started with the former GM."It's football. You've got to be productive," Rivera said. "I've got to get us back on track. ... I'm going to work hard to do that, as is our coaching staff."Rivera added: "The key is we have to play to our potential. We've also got a group of young guys that have to grow up, and we need to make sure Cam (Newton) is completely healthy again. ... But we can be a very good team."Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

With Derek Carr recently becoming the highest-paid player in NFL history and Matthew Stafford expected to overtake him later this summer, defending MVP Matt Ryan is in no rush to sign his next contract.The Atlanta Falcons quarterback isn't jealous of his fellow passers, nor should he be, as his next contract will be directly affected by their paydays."That's just kind of the nature of the business,'' Ryan told ESPN's Vaughn McClure on Tuesday. "Those guys have all played really well. Derek (Carr) signed a new contract this offseason and he's played great. Matthew Stafford's is coming up, and he deserves it. He's played really, really well and competed so hard throughout his career."Ryan's contract doesn't expire until after the 2018 season, but he'll have no signing bonus and only $2.4 million in guaranteed money remaining. The 32-year-old expects to get a new deal, and owner Arthur Blank said in February that Ryan "needs to be compensated well, certainly, and he will be."He's not stressing about the timeline."That's just the business side of it. I'm never worried too much about that," said Ryan. "I've always tried to let the business people handle the business and for me, just try and take care of what I can control, and that's playing good and preparing the right way."And I've always felt like if you do that, the business side of it will take care of itself. But certainly, those guys are deserving of what's coming their way.''Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

We're getting ever closer to the return of football.The latest offseason benchmark to be hit is the opening of rookie training camps Wednesday. The Baltimore Ravens, Chicago Bears, Dallas Cowboys, Jacksonville Jaguars, and New Orleans Saints will all welcome their rookie classes onto the field to get a jump on preparations for the upcoming season.The Miami Dolphins will follow Thursday and a mix of rookies, injured players, and veterans from additional teams will also get to work as the week progresses.Here are 10 rookies to watch upon their arrivals to training camp:Myles Garrett, DE, BrownsLast we saw of Garrett, the first overall pick in this year's draft was being helped off the field with an ankle injury. He's had more than a month to heal and showcased his strength in an offseason workout video. Nonetheless, the Browns faithful and brass would be comforted to know he's completely over his previous ailment.The defensive end could also shed some light on the progress of his development and how much of the playbook he's digested in an important training camp for the rebuilding Browns.Leonard Fournette, RB, JaguarsMuch of the discussion regarding Fournette this offseason has revolved around his weight. He was the heaviest running back at the combine, then shed 12 pounds for his pro day. How much will he weigh at training camp?Fournette has said he intends to play at 235 pounds. Regardless, head coach Doug Marrone has said the rookie will have to earn any first-team reps he receives.The immediate future of the franchise rests on how Fournette can perform as soon as he steps into the pros.Mitch Trubisky, QB, BearsTrubisky isn't expected to play much in his first year, but that doesn't mean he's been given a year off. The Bears stuck out their necks for the unproven quarterback and want to at least see a glimpse of what they envision for their future.The young signal-caller took the extra step in declaring he believes the Bears will make the playoffs in 2017, though Mike Glennon will be at the controls. This year, the majority of Trubisky's pass attempts may come at training camp.Marlon Humphrey, CB, RavensOf the rookies that are likely to make the starting lineup to begin the season, Humphrey may have the best case of all. As Baltimore continues to overhaul its once dominant secondary, the Alabama stud figures to be the marquee piece.The Ravens were happy to have the corner fall into their laps at pick No. 16. They view him playing on the outside and hope he can hone his talents through camp.Alvin Kamara, RB, SaintsWith Mark Ingram and Adrian Peterson taking up much of the headlines, it's easy for Kamara to be lost in the background. However, with his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield, the 5-foot-10 rusher could carve out a significant role in the rotation.He will likely inherit the Saints' backfield in the near future, but it's not a stretch to imagine Kamara as an important piece of the puzzle for 2017.Sidney Jones, CB, EaglesJones continues his recovery from the torn Achilles he suffered at his pro day, but his four-to-six month timeline retroactive to April could see the corner return to the field by the end of training camp.The former Washington standout figured to be one of the first cornerbacks taken in this year's draft ahead of the injury. He was selected by a pro team in need of immediate help at corner and will therefore be thrust into a position in which he could make an instant impact.Chad Kelly, QB, BroncosKelly underwent wrist surgery for an injury that nagged him last season and popped back up during his pro day. He's expected to be healthy enough to resume throwing at camp, however.This year's Mr. Irrelevant, Kelly was taken with the last pick of the draft. Yet, with his pedigree and arm strength, he could position himself for a bigger role in the future with a solid showing at his first training camp.Dalvin Cook, RB, VikingsThe Vikings' battle for the starting running back job will be one to watch throughout the preseason, and rookie Dalvin Cook will get a head start as rookie camp opens for the team Sunday.The man he will contend with, Latavius Murray, underwent offseason surgery, but should be ready to go at the outset of training camp. Cook underwhelmed at the combine, which may have prompted his drop to the second round of the draft. He could regain a lot of favor with a solid camp.Ryan Switzer, WR, CowboysOf the Cowboys' draft picks, Switzer came with little fan fare, but he's been quick to make an impression. Working with Dez Bryant during minicamp, the fourth-round pick has shown the potential to contribute.The Cowboys could use the receiving help. They ranked 23rd in passing yards per contest, as the offense centered on the running game. Switzer could combine with Cole Beasley as a slot option and climb the ranks if injury befalls the position.Raekwon McMillan, LB, DolphinsAnother rookie with a starting job ripe for the picking is McMillan. The linebacker figures to join Kiko Alonso and Lawrence Timmons on the Dolphins' opening-day lineup, but first must secure that spot.McMillan is a versatile defender, able to play in multiple roles, but he could begin his pro career on the outside as Koa Misi awaits clearance from a neck injury he suffered in 2016.(Photos courtesy: Action Images)Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.