The Bengals took one of the bigger risks of this year's draft by selecting Joe Mixon in the second round, but Cincinnati continues to insist it left no stone unturned prior to the selection.Mixon was captured on CCTV punching a female Oklahoma student in 2014, an incident that caused some teams to take the talented running back off their draft boards completely.But the Bengals - who have a history of taking on players with off-field issues - picked Mixon after an exhaustive investigation into his history, head coach Marvin Lewis explained Thursday on Sirius XM."A lot of time, a lot of research," Lewis said, according to Conor Orr of NFL.com. "Time spent with Joe. Time researching people around Joe. Joe's past in East Bay (California). All those kinds of things that way. His past on campus at Oklahoma since the incident. So, there couldn't be any other red flags to say, 'Well, well, maybe...' No, no, no. It had to be clean, and Joe knows that. He knows going forward, it has to stay clean all the time. He's lived on the tip of the sword for three years now, and he's got to continue to probably for the rest of his life."After a backlash from anti-domestic violence groups, Bengals owner Mike Brown wrote an open letter, admitting his team took "a risk" on Mixon.On the field, Mixon boasted first-round talent. He's expected to immediately push Jeremy Hill and Giovani Bernard for starting reps, and Lewis has been impressed with his early work."He's off the charts talent-wise," Lewis said. "Big, fast, catch, run, see, smart - and he's a 20-year-old kid. He's as smart as a whip. You know, I mean, those things are fun. And I keep reminding everybody, he's a 20-year-old kid. Keep understanding that. Let Joe continue to grow and develop as we go."Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

They may be adversaries on the field, but they share a common goal off it.NFL cornerback Aqib Talib and receiver Odell Beckham Jr. were spotted outside of Warwick nightclub in Hollywood by TMZ Sports and could be heard discussing strategy before entering the hot spot.Also spotted among the group were wideouts Jarvis Landry and Emmanuel Sanders.Now that's an all-star team of clubgoers.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

J.J. Watt is the latest athlete to release a shoe, and he couldn't help but sneak in a jab at the competition while promoting it.The Houston Texans star tweeted Thursday that the JJ IIs cost $99 - significantly less than the sneakers being touted by a certain Los Angeles Lakers draftee with an overbearing father.

3-Wide is a weekly feature in which theScore's NFL editors debate the hot topics around the league. Grab a cold towel and brace for hot takes.Why haven't the Packers been to the Super Bowl since 2010? Arun Srinivasan: Former Green Bay Packers wide receiver Greg Jennings blasted his previous club Wednesday, stating that the team's defense and coaching are the reasons why they haven't been to the Super Bowl since 2010. Jennings may have a point, but assuming the Packers should be the class of the NFC every year based on their offense alone is ridiculous. The Seahawks have built a better all-around roster since Russell Wilson emerged in 2012, while the Giants, Cardinals, Panthers, and Falcons are perpetual threats. Assuming the Packers should breeze to the Super Bowl is downright arrogant, and discounts the strength of the conference.Dan Wilkins: It's been a rotating list of factors making Green Bay one of the league's most frustrating teams. So maybe inconsistency is the right word here. Whether it's the receivers, the defense, coaching, or even some plain bad luck (see: Brandon Bostick's muffed onside kick), the Packers just can't seem to get it all together for one season. That said, is it really ever safe to bet against them? Aaron Rodgers is both the best quarterback in the game today and, for my money, the best we've ever seen. His presence, working behind what's still a stellar offensive line, will always have the Packers in contention. The rest of the team just needs to get on the same page.Mitch Sanderson: The Packers have gotten by with the aura of a decent set of defensive stars like Clay Matthews, Julius Peppers, and Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, but the unit has never had the depth to be elite. Rodgers and Co. have scored at least 20 points in every playoff game of the quarterback's career. When playing in the portion of the season when "defense wins championships," this group can't be so dependent on the offense.What should the Redskins do next at QB? Wilkins: Washington mistakenly passed up the opportunity to trade Cousins this offseason. That can't happen again. The fact that the two sides have yet to agree to a long-term contract is a clear sign that at least one party, and perhaps both, would simply rather not. Such a stance from either would be entirely justified. This is the most dysfunctional organization in sports, and Cousins just isn't worth what he has the leverage to demand. The Redskins should use the franchise tag to keep him off the open market next offseason and then pursue a trade. There will be a number of teams interested, and possibly one that would offer up a top-10 pick. With an incredibly intriguing 2018 quarterback class on the way, that's how this team can best set itself up for the future.Sanderson: They should sign Cousins to a long-term deal, and they should have done that a while ago. But as Cousins may understandably be hesitant about playing his career with the benchmark of dysfunction, an agreement hasn't been reached. The perfect scenario might be for Washington to play out the year with him, tag him again, then try to trade him to a team like the 49ers for a first-round pick, and hope to select one of the top quarterback prospects next draft.Srinivasan: Cousins has been better than the Redskins expected, and is the victim of an outdated narrative crafted before he submitted two strong seasons as the team's starter. It would be wise for them to sign him to a long-term deal immediately after the 2017 season ends. For a franchise that just experienced what it's like when your franchise quarterback declines rapidly due to injury during the Robert Griffin III saga, they ought to know better than to play chicken with Cousins. If they don't sign him long term, the Redskins may as well blow up the roster.Which current NFL player would be the best ESPYS host?Sanderson: I'm going to cheat with my answer a little bit and give two players: the Bennett brothers. While some of their ideas are far from inside the box, Martellus and Michael have shown they're willing to touch on any and every subject with humor, charisma, realism, and unpredictability. In a single lunch with ESPN's Mina Kimes last summer, the duo gave more entertaining quotes than the rest of the league did all seasonSrinivasan: Antonio Brown is among the league's most charismatic stars, often engaging players across the league with side bets and other activities. Brown's understated sense of humor would be perfect for an awards show, and by virtue of being one of the NFL's top players, the Steelers star would be able to roast the other athletes in attendance without fear of reprisal. Business is Boomin' and Brown should take the stage next year.Wilkins: How about Joe Thomas? One quick look at the Cleveland Browns left tackles' Twitter account will give you all the material you need to satisfy the all-important humor element of awards show hosting. One drawback could be the ruling out of jokes about the Browns, but I'm guessing Thomas would be up for incorporating those jabs into his bits.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

When Martavis Bryant was suspended for a season last year, Ben Roethlisberger made his disappointment loud and clear, telling media he felt lied to and let down by the receiver.Related - Roethlisberger: Bryant lied to me, he needs to 'grow up'Bryant is back with the Pittsburgh Steelers this season and feels that Roethlisberger's comments need to be addressed personally."I feel like we need to," Bryant told ESPN's Dan Graziano on Thursday. "We should have a man-to-man. Because some of the things he put out there about me, I kind of didn't agree with how he did it. So I want to sit down and hear his own opinion, man to man, about why he did that."Bryant was coming off a 765-yard, six-touchdown performance through the 11 games he played in 2015 and appeared to be an integral part of Pittsburgh's 2016 offense. Roethlisberger was frustrated that Bryant wouldn't be available to the team, and the receiver had other things on his mind at the time, but has found himself unhappy with his quarterbacks comments."I mean, at that time, I was going through a lot of stuff," said Bryant. "I wasn't really even worried about his opinion at that time, because there was just a lot that was going on."He's my brother. I love him. But at the same time, I have my own family outside of football. I have my own problems. I'm not just going to come up to you and open up to you about what's going on with my personal life. That's not how I am. We just didn't see eye to eye on that, but as far as right now, everything's great."Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Any receiver who sets the record for most catches in the first three years of their career should be an obvious re-sign candidate, right? For the Miami Dolphins, maybe not.Jarvis Landry has added tremendous value for a second-round pick in his first three seasons, leading Miami in receptions in each campaign.Season Catches Yards TDs201484758520151101157420169411364However, as the 24-year-old enters the final year of his rookie contract, the Dolphins reportedly haven't shown much interest in keeping him around. Landry and his agent have set a deadline at the beginning of the season to cut off contract discussions."I want to focus," Landry said, according to Omar Kelly of the Sun Sentinel. "I believe that Miami is where I want to be. Miami is the place I call home. I want to be able to give my all mentally, physically, and emotionally this season."According to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald, the Dolphins haven't yet made Landry a contract offer, with training camp set to open July 26.While it may have seemed like a foregone conclusion that Miami wouldn't let Landry walk after becoming a star and a leader of its offense, there's evidence to suggest no contract offer is coming.His role decreased throughout the 2016 season as first-year head coach Adam Gase gradually installed his offense and play-calling style. Landry made 46 of his 94 catches in the first seven games of 2016, and made more than six catches in a contest only twice in the final nine games, in which Miami went on a 7-2 run to finish the season.The LSU product's high catch total is an impressive feat, but he hasn't shown the big-play explosiveness Gase prefers from his receivers. Also, part of the reason for the high number of targets has been that his fellow pass-catchers haven't been so central to the offense.Landry has been a wizard out of the slot in his short career, giving Ryan Tannehill a target in the middle of the field on key downs. But Gase prefers to use his tight ends in that role, and traded for one of his former Denver Broncos pupils, Julius Thomas, this offseason.The Dolphins gave Kenny Stills a new contract in March worth $8 million per year for the next four seasons. With 2016 first-round pick DeVante Parker reportedly lighting up OTAs and having the more typical physical tools of a No. 1 receiver, Landry may no longer be a luxury the Dolphins can afford.For Landry, sticking with Miami and the only situation he's known in the NFL may be his preference now, but hitting the open market would be a blessing for the slot specialist. Landry, like any young talent, can make more money pitting bidders against one another than negotiating with one club.If his entertaining skill set isn't appreciated by Miami, there will be plenty of suitors for his services. He could go back to Louisiana and join Drew Brees' stellar passing attack, or head up to New York to team up with his best friend, Odell Beckham Jr.It may seem unconventional to let a player as young and productive as Landry leave for free agency, but in this situation, it may make sense.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Arizona Cardinals safety Tyrann Mathieu refuses to let a string of injuries impede his lofty goals ahead of the upcoming season.Mathieu earned Pro Bowl and first-team All-Pro honors in 2015 and was a leading candidate for Defensive Player of the Year before tearing his ACL while recording an interception.The Cardinals star signed a five-year, $62.5-million contract prior to the 2016 season but his campaign was truncated after being placed on season-ending injured reserve with a shoulder ailment.Ahead of the 2017 season, Mathieu said he's returned to full strength and doesn't believe there's anyone who can approach his caliber when he's in top form."I'm feeling great, it will be a great year for us," Mathieu said via Nicholas McGee of Sporting News. "Any time I'm healthy I feel like I'm the best defensive player in the NFL."Khalil Mack, Von Miller, Luke Kuechly, J.J. Watt, and a host of other defenders may object to Mathieu's claim, but there's reason for the 25-year-old to have full confidence in himself. When Mathieu is in peak form, there's nary a defender who plays quite like him and if he can lead the Cardinals back to the playoffs, the standout safety will be in the discussion for Defensive Player of the Year again.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Although the NBA, MLB, and NHL are all healthy and thriving, the NFL remains king in America.ESPN's Darren Rovell posted a list of the most-watched sporting events in 2017, with the NFL occupying the top 10 spots, and 13 of the first 20 positions.

Andrew Luck's status among the NFL's elite quarterbacks seems to have been brought into question after a pair of injury-ridden seasons.Bruce Arians can be counted among the many who have already seen more than enough from the Indianapolis Colts star to know that he is a rare and special talent.The Cardinals head coach compared his former quarterback to a pair of future Hall of Famers in an appearance on the "Tiki and Tierney" radio show this week, making particular note of how quickly Luck became comfortable leading a no-huddle offense."It took Peyton (Manning) three years. Andrew, it was three games," Arians said. "He's brilliant. They say he's got a photographic memory. I don't know what the hell it is, but I know you tell him once, and he's got it. And his athletic ability is amazing. When you think of Peyton's brain and Ben (Roethlisberger)'s body and toughness and heart, you got Andrew. So much goes into winning. Not just one guy. He probably needed that surgery sooner than he got it."Having worked with all three players at the beginning of their respective careers, and long past his time with each as now he enters his fifth year in Arizona, Arians is perhaps the best source for this kind of analysis.With that in mind, the football world should probably be looking forward to seeing what Luck can do after working his way back from his recent injury issues."I think people jump off quarterbacks early all the time because their team doesn't win," Arians said. "It's a 22-man sport. If you don't have a defense or if your weapons or your offensive line gets hurt, (it's tough). Andrew Luck might be - I've had some great ones - the best one as a rookie I've ever seen. And Ben won 13 in a row or something. But the things (Luck) did as a rookie were unbelievable."Luck showed some signs of his earlier form across 15 starts last season, completing 63.5 percent of his passes for 4,240 yards, 31 touchdowns and 13 interceptions.The hope will be that an offseason shoulder surgery can correct any lingering issues and help him return to full strength with an eye on leading the Colts back to the playoffs.- With h/t to CBS SportsCopyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Michael Floyd better be telling the truth to his head coach after failing three self-administered breathalyzer tests.The Minnesota Vikings receiver, who was on house arrest for a December DUI, claims that too much kombucha tea caused the failed tests in June. Head coach Mike Zimmer wants to give Floyd the benefit of the doubt, but if he finds out the receiver was just making up an excuse, he knows what to do."I said, 'If I find out you're lying to me, I'm going to cut you,'" Zimmer told Brian Murphy of the Pioneer Press about his warning to Floyd. "Do I believe it? I don't know how much tea he drank. I have no clue ..."I don't have any doubt why there'd be skepticism, but he told me that he wasn't (drinking). That it was legit."After serving one day in jail on June 28, Floyd completed the remainder of his house arrest sentence. He is scheduled to join the Vikings for training camp beginning July 26, where he will compete to be a starting receiver.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

All he needed was an opportunity.Once an undrafted, no-name camp arm for the Green Bay Packers, Kurt Warner initially toiled away in both the Arena League and in Europe before returning to the NFL with the now-former St. Louis Rams.And now as the official ceremony approaches for which Warner will be enshrined alongside football's elite, the Northern Iowa product touched upon the value of those additional early career reps in his Hall of Fame conference call with members of the media Thursday."Had I made the team with the Packers, who knows what my career would have looked like," Warner said. "Who knows when I would have ever stepped on the field for the first time, or ever had a chance to start? I got a chance to play a whole bunch of football, and probably more football than any backup quarterback in any league, anywhere. ..."I got to grow up as a football player. I got a chance to experience and see so many different scenarios on the football field that I would have never faced and never been able to use as preparation for when I finally did start at the NFL level. That part, just in and of itself, was so valuable to me."Along with the due recognition for his career, Warner's upcoming Hall of Fame induction further cements his status as the poster boy for development leagues in football.At a time when the issue is widely considered to be a primary concern for the future of the NFL, now over a decade since the official disbandment of NFL Europe, Warner remains a staunch supporter of getting young players a chance they may not otherwise have."I'm just such a big proponent of having other opportunities, especially for the quarterback position, to be able to develop," Warner said. "Whether that be a feeder league from the NFL, whether that be another league that takes on the role of developing, the quarterback position is so difficult. ..."When you look at the jump from college to pro, when you look at the systems being run in college to allow players to play quicker, and then that jump that goes to the NFL, I think you're just going to see it become more and more difficult for guys to be able to make that jump and be successful quickly without getting reps in between the lines. I think it would be extremely beneficial for the NFL to develop a league or to partner with another league as a means of allowing quarterbacks to build their skill set and get better prepared for when they get the opportunity to play at the NFL level."Warner enjoyed a swift rise to glory after earning a spot with the Rams, first stepping in as the starter in 1999 and leading what became known as "The Greatest Show on Turf" for three seasons. That incredible stretch included two Super Bowl appearances, one of which resulted in a championship and game MVP honors for the leader under center.After the frustrating few years that followed, he'd again emerge as the leader of a high-powered offense in Arizona. The Cardinals made a pair of playoff appearances in Warner's final two seasons, advancing to the big stage in the former before falling to the Pittsburgh Steelers in what stands as one of the great games in Super Bowl history.Warner would finish his career with a 67-49 record across 116 regular-season starts, completing 65.5 percent of his passes for 32,344 yards and 208 touchdowns.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

When Brandon Marshall was released by the New York Jets in March, it was done at his request.Why? Because he knew what everyone else found out soon after - they're not going to be very good this season.At age 33, Marshall says the clock is ticking on his championship hopes and he knew sticking around the Jets wasn't going to work out for anyone."For me, I just knew I couldn’t be in that environment," Marshall told WFAN on Thursday. "I think everyone knows the type of personality I am at this point in my career."I wouldn't have made it through an entire season knowing that we didn't have a chance. That's all you want as a player - you just want a chance."Marshall was smart about his departure, becoming a free agent before the market opened, but some of his former teammates - David Harris and Eric Decker - were released in June, which the receiver disagreed with."Both (releases) were wrong," Marshall said. "It was too late in free agency. It was bad business."Marshall, Harris, and Decker all landed on their feet with the New York Giants, New England Patriots, and Tennessee Titans, respectively, and will very likely have much more successful seasons than the Jets.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Arizona Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians is the fearless leader of his organization, but he doesn't have a specific timeline on how long he'll remain on the sidelines.Arians is entering his fifth season as the Cardinals' head coach, but wouldn't commit past the 2017 campaign, citing his ongoing health concerns."We'll reevaluate it at the end of next year, and hopefully we'll be ready for another one," Arians said to ESPN's Josh Weinfuss.Arians has successfully fended off prostate cancer, but recently had to fight through numerous other health scares.The 64-year-old underwent surgery in February to remove a cancerous part of his kidney after doctors found the afflicted area in December.After battling through a series of tests and procedures, Arians doesn't want the 2017 season to be his last."I hope not," Arians said. "That's going to mean I'm not healthy."Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Rob Gronkowski is still the undisputed king of the tight end position, but trailing him is a plethora of intriguing options for owners who prefer to draft a tight end late and stream the position during the fantasy season.Here are three tight ends going undrafted in many fantasy leagues who have a chance to be this year's waiver-wire hero.Average draft position (ADP) data courtesy of FantasyPros and is based on 12-team leagues with standard scoring.Austin Hooper, FalconsADP: TE22Hooper made a little noise as a rookie last season - including catching a touchdown in the Super Bowl - but only scratched the surface of his capabilities. Reports out of Falcons minicamp suggest he's looking more like a veteran and should feature in a dynamic passing attack that doesn't have a locked-in second option behind Julio Jones. Hooper should be on every fantasy owner's watch list.Dwayne Allen, PatriotsADP: UndraftedOne of the first moves the Super Bowl champions made this offseason was acquiring Allen from the Colts via trade. While Allen never reached his potential in Indianapolis and frustrated his fantasy owners, the Bill Belichick seal of approval counts for a lot. With Gronkowski returning from back surgery and at risk of re-injury, Allen's fantasy value could skyrocket.Erik Swoope, ColtsADP: UndraftedJack Doyle is the Colts' presumptive starting tight end and will be drafted in most fantasy leagues, but the second man on the depth chart is worth monitoring. A highly athletic former basketball player, Swoope produced several big plays last season and could be in line for more work this year. If he and Andrew Luck establish a connection in the red zone, Swoope could become a viable tight end in deeper fantasy leagues.(Photos courtesy: Action Images)Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Slowly but surely Teddy Bridgewater appears to be making some progress.In what can be considered the latest update regarding his ongoing recovery from significant knee injuries - including a torn ACL and MCL - the Minnesota Vikings quarterback posted a series of pictures from a brace-free workout Wednesday.

Matt Williamson is a former scout for the Cleveland Browns and spent 10 years at ESPN as a scout and co-host of "The Football Today Podcast."We see NFL players take huge steps from one year to the next all the time. Sometimes the “light goes on” or the “game slows down” for these young men. Often a coaching/scheme change can benefit a player quite a bit. Sometimes it's just a case of health. Nonetheless, adjusting to the NFL is very difficult.Here are five defensive players who are poised to take a big step forward in their career this season:Danielle Hunter, DE, Minnesota Vikings(Photo courtesy: Getty Images)Hunter only played 600 snaps last year despite appearing in all 16 games, while fellow defensive ends Brian Robison and Everson Griffen played significantly more. That probably won't continue after Hunter recorded a ridiculous 12.5 sacks in limited action.The 22-year-old is exceptionally talented. He has a slender, but strong, body with great flexibility and explosion. Coming out of LSU, Hunter was considered a raw prospect who leaned too much on his immense tools rather than hand usage and other fundamentals of the position. That is changing rapidly and he is on the cusp of greatness entering his third season.Hunter ran a 4.57 40-yard dash at 252 pounds at the NFL combine and his Pro Day, and broad jumped 10 feet, 10 inches with a 36 1/2-inch vertical. Yes, the tools are very much there. It might not be long before he's routinely ranked amongst the league’s best edge players.Chris Jones, DE, Kansas City Chiefs(Photo courtesy: Action Images)Jones fell to the second round in last year’s draft because there were questions about his motor coming out of Mississippi State.But there were never any questions about Jones' talents, as he has terrific size (6-6, 308 pounds) with long arms and a powerful frame.He's fast for a big man and changes directions well in space. Jones also shows exceptional overall power and first-step quickness. Jones played very well in his rookie season under Andy Reid, and with better and more consistent pad level than in college. He's exactly what teams are looking for nowadays as an interior pass-rusher and disruptor.Sheldon Rankins, DT, New Orleans Saints(Photo courtesy: Action Images)The Saints used the 12th pick in 2016 on Rankins, a move many applauded.New Orleans couldn't activate Rankins until November of his rookie season due to a leg injury. But when Rankins finally saw the field, he made an impact on a defense that was - and still is - in need of difference-makers. With a lack of true edge rushers and Nick Fairley’s unfortunate health situation, much will be demanded from Rankins and Cameron Jordan this year.That will result in added blocking attention on the pair. So maybe the numbers won’t come in abundance for Rankins in his second season, but this is a powerful and explosive leverage player who's an ideal 3-technique defensive end, with the power to handle the nose at times.Instead of playing 28 percent of the Saints' snaps, as he did in his rookie year, Rankins absolutely needs to play close to 100 percent. Everything he does is powerful, violent, and explosive.Noah Spence, DE, Tampa Bay Buccaneers(Photo courtesy: Getty Images)Spence has star potential, and could provide the Buccaneers with an edge presence they haven’t had since Simeon Rice.Clearly Spence was a first-round talent, but he fell to the 39th pick because of off-field concerns. Spence is explosive, gets off the ball really well, and doesn’t stay blocked. As a rookie, he showed only flashes of his potential, recording 5.5 sacks in 572 snaps.His supporting cast in Tampa Bay’s front seven is very strong. Robert Ayers should act as an excellent role model and the combination of Gerald McCoy and Chris Baker will demand an awful lot of attention from opposing blocking schemes. Spence seems to have matured, got his life in order, and is ready to explode on the gridiron.Robert Quinn, LB, Rams(Photo courtesy: Getty Images)*While not a true breakout candidate, Quinn is poised for a major bounce-back season.Quinn played eight games in 2015 before having back surgery and has only appeared in 17 games over the past two seasons, notching nine sacks.But this is a super-talented edge player who had 19 sacks in 2013. With Wade Phillips now the Rams' defensive coordinator, expect Quinn to take over the role Von Miller played so well in Denver. Quinn might be a sliver behind Miller in terms of ability, but that gap isn’t nearly as wide as you might think.With the amount of attention he receives and the damage Aaron Donald does on the interior, there isn’t a better bounce-back defensive candidate in the entire league than Quinn.Quinn broke out long ago, but he's in line for a monster 2017 season.Honorable Mention: Eli Apple, DeForest Buckner, Artie Burns, Frank Clark, Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, Jalen Collins, Marcell Dareus, Trey Flowers, Markus Golden, Akiem Hicks, David Irving, Myles Jack, Grady Jarrett, Byron Jones, Karl Joseph, Yannick Ngakoue, Shane Ray, Xavier Rhodes, Jaylon Smith, Shaq Thompson, Stephon TuittCopyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Lady Gaga's performance at Super Bowl LI was the second most-watched halftime show ever, and it recently gained even more acclaim, earning six Emmy Award nominations.The FOX and NFL Network production earned Emmy nods for production design, lighting design, music direction, sound mixing, technical direction, and special class programs.Gaga's performance drew 117.5 million viewers, second only to Katy Perry's set during Super Bowl XLIX, which garnered 120.7 million.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New York Giants receiver Brandon Marshall made a radio appearance on WEEI 93.7FM on Thursday morning that ended abruptly after the conversation branched off into a discussion about race in sports.Five minutes into his spot on "The Kirk and Callahan Show," the topic of race began to surface."I'm not getting into the race card with you guys," Marshall said in response to a question about comments he made in the past about the discrepancy in the treatment of black players and white players. "So, if that's what you guys want to do, you can go there, but black guys in America get treated differently, period. So I'll just say that."To a follow-up question, Marshall responded, "Are we done with this interview? Can I get off of this interview? Alright, I'm done with you guys."Come on, guys. You're going back to a year ago, brother. You guys made news, you got Brandon Marshall to say black guys get treated differently and I'm going to drop the mic on you guys ... Change the subject or I'm getting off. I'm dropping the mic."Marshall then stood up and accidentally spilled his coffee near a laptop. He apologized and offered to clean up the mess before walking out.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

If one ever wondered what the players' association thought of Richard Sherman's belief that NFL players have to be willing to strike in order to net the contracts that are currently being handed out in the NBA and MLB, look no further than this tweet.

Greg Jennings thinks he knows why the Green Bay Packers have only one Super Bowl win with Aaron Rodgers under center: defense and coaching.The former Packers wideout was a guest on FOX Sports' "Undisputed" on Wednesday and tried to explain Green Bay's failure to return to the Super Bowl since the 2010 season."We always hear defense wins championships. They have a lack of defense. They haven't been able to put up the stops. The offense has put up the numbers, they haven't been able to stop anybody from putting up the numbers," Jennings said.The season after the Packers won Super Bowl XLV, the team went 15-1, yet lost to the New York Giants in a home divisional-round game. Jennings referred to a Hail Mary touchdown by the Giants in that game to reinforce his point. That year, the Pack ranked first in offensive points and dead last in total defense.Jennings didn't stop there, also arguing that head coach Mike McCarthy often got in the team's way with an overly conservative approach."I'm just going to flat-out say it: If we had a lead, our issue wasn't the defense, our issue was Mike McCarthy," Jennings said. "He would cuff us. ... When you watch New England play, when they have a lead, they go for your throat, they don't relax. ... They have a great quarterback, they have arguably the best quarterback in football, but they have - no doubt about it - the best head coach in football."It isn't the first time Jennings has critiqued his former team. He left Green Bay for Minnesota in 2013, and made plenty of remarks afterward about Rodgers and his time with the Packers.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Washington Redskins have until Monday to hammer out a long-term deal with quarterback Kirk Cousins, but all indications are that he will be allowed to play out the 2017 season on the franchise tag, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports.The franchise tag was issued to Cousins for the second straight season, netting him a 20 percent raise on his 2016 salary, which equates to a $23.9 base salary in 2017.Rapoport reports both sides are "OK" with going through with the one-year partnership. The two sides have been unable to negotiate a long-term deal for the past two seasons.Cousins is scheduled to hit unrestricted free agency in 2018, though the Redskins could hand him their tag again for a third year. However, that would require a 44 percent bump in pay and net Cousins $34.5 million. The team could also use a transition tag, which comes with a 20 percent raise, but it would allow Cousins the ability to negotiate a multi-year contract with other teams.The Redskins made Cousins their second quarterback selected in the 2012 draft after they traded up to grab Robert Griffin III in the first round. After three seasons with Griffin under center, Washington allowed Cousins to take the wheel.In his first year as a starter, he set a franchise record for the most passing yards in a single season. He then topped that mark in 2016 by nearly reaching the 5,000-yard mark.Cousins led the Redskins to a division title in 2015 and to the brink of the playoffs last season.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Bruce Arians is either very confident in Carson Palmer's health, or trying very hard to convince himself his team was smart not to draft a quarterback.The Arizona Cardinals head coach had plenty to say about his star running back, his team's 2016 turning point, and his history of drinking paint in a string of media appearances Wednesday, but couldn't avoid talk of his aging quarterback.Though the 37-year-old Palmer reportedly contemplated retirement this winter, Arians says he looks as good as ever after OTAs, and has plenty of games left in him."He can play easily until he's 42 if he wants to," Arians said on CBS Sports Radio's "Tiki and Tierney" on Wednesday. "He is hungry as hell right now. I wouldn't let him go in OTAs. It was like taking candy away from a kid."Palmer has been Arians' starting quarterback for the past four seasons, and had a career year in 2015, throwing for 4,671 yards and 35 touchdowns. While discussing differences between all the quarterbacks Arians has worked with - including Andrew Luck, Peyton Manning, and Ben Roethlisberger - he said Palmer is the best deep passer of them all."I'm really lucky to be around these guys. Each one is so unique," said Arians, whose book, "The Quarterback Whisperer: How to Build an Elite NFL Quarterback," was recently released. "I've never seen anybody throw a deep ball like Carson."Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

David Johnson was a football machine in 2016.The Arizona Cardinals running back has been hyped up all offseason after racking up more than 2,100 yards from scrimmage and 20 total touchdowns in his sophomore campaign. For fantasy owners, he's expected to be one of the top players in 2017. He's as good of a receiver as he is a rusher.Related - Arians: 'I don't think there is a ceiling' for David JohnsonHowever, while Johnson was putting on his show last year, the rest of the team wasn't so hot.The Cardinals entered the 2016 season with Super Bowl hopes after an NFC West title and a 13-3 record the year before, but were met with disappointment, finishing outside the playoffs with a 7-8-1 record - the first losing season of Arians' tenure.Arizona is far from ready to roll over and start a rebuild with the likes of Carson Palmer and Larry Fitzgerald still leading the roster and searching for a championship. But just as Johnson's dominance wasn't enough on its own to put Arizona in the win column last year, it won't be enough in 2017.This team is well equipped to be a championship contender if it plays to its potential, but each position group needs to do its part.Offensive lineThe Cardinals were smoked with injuries across their offensive line in 2016, which made Johnson's performance all the more impressive but killed the offense's hopes of finding consistency. Having a healthy line - particularly when it comes to guard Mike Iupati and tackles Jared Veldheer and D.J. Humphries - would go a long way toward helping the offense return to the top.Veldheer and Humphries are also set to swap sides. As a first-round pick in 2015, Humphries is expected to have the skills to take on top pass-rushers, while the veteran Veldheer should be more comfortable on the right side.Defensive lineTwo players need to step up their games for Arizona's D-line to succeed: Chandler Jones and Robert Nkemdiche.Jones played well last year, racking up 11 sacks and four forced fumbles, but he didn't take over games like peers Khalil Mack and Von Miller. And they should be considered his peers, after Jones signed a five-year, $82-million deal.Nkemdiche didn't make an impact as a rookie following his first-round draft selection, playing in just five game and making only one tackle. He needs to start playing like a first-rounder.LinebackersThis is probably Arizona's strongest crew after adding versatile athlete Haason Reddick in the first round. With safety-turned-linebacker Deone Bucannon providing lockdown coverage, Markus Golden getting pressure off the edge, and Karlos Dansby providing veteran wisdom in the middle, this could be an elite linebacking corps.ReceiversFitzgerald can't be depended on to carry the group anymore. John Brown and J.J. Nelson have proven to be very fast, but their route-running and hands need to be more consistent.Whether it be third-round pick Chad Williams, speedster Brittan Golden, running back-turn-receiver Andre Ellington, or someone else, the group needs to have more than one reliable veteran and a pair of speedsters.Defensive backsIt's a talented but thin unit running Arizona's "No Fly Zone." Patrick Peterson and Tyrann Mathieu can lead the way with safety Antoine Bethea, rookie Budda Baker, and sophomore Brandon Williams following - but they need to stay healthy, or things will get ugly.QuarterbackAt the end of the day, the fate of the Cardinals' season rests on Palmer's shoulders. The team didn't draft a successor for their 37-year-old field general as he pondered retirement this winter.Palmer's arm strength is a major factor, as the Cardinals run a vertical offense with many receivers who can take the top off a defense. He got caught rushing to push the ball downfield as the Cardinals trailed in games last season, and it didn't work out.An improved offensive line and, of course, Johnson's developing talents should help Palmer tremendously, but it will take a full team effort to get the team a W on a weekly basis.(Photos courtesy: Action Images)Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Likely to the surprise of few, a pair of unforgettable feats from the NFL playoffs garnered some honors at the 2017 ESPYS on Wednesday night.For their 28-3 comeback in Super Bowl LI, the New England Patriots (and technically the Atlanta Falcons) won the Best Game award.

There is one award given out at every ESPYS that's more meaningful than any other.The Jimmy V Award for Perseverance is given to a deserving member of the sporting world who has overcome great obstacles through perseverance and determination. This year's award winner was New Orleans Saints superfan Jarrius Robertson, who is a survivor of a rare liver disease.Jarrius has lifted spirits wherever he goes - whether it be at Saints and LSU games or at the NBA All-Star Game or at WWE events - with his "never give up" attitude, which shone through as he and his father accepted the Jimmy V Award on Wednesday.The Saints and commissioner Roger Goodell have pledged $25,000 each to Jarrius' GoFundMe page to treat his chronic liver disease.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

After a cohort of NFL players complained they were underpaid comparatively to their NBA and MLB peers, Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman is posing the notion of a strike to his colleagues.Due to a sudden ascent in the NBA's salary cap, numerous players have received eight-figure contracts, much to the chagrin of many NFL athletes.Sherman is ready for a holdout in order to receive a bigger payday and tried to bring forth the idea of a work stoppage to the rest of the league."If we want as the NFL, as a union, to get anything done, players have to be willing to strike. That's the thing that guys need to 100 percent realize," Sherman said to ESPN.com."You're going to have to miss games, you're going to have to lose some money if you're willing to make the point, because that's how MLB and NBA got it done. They missed games, they struck, they flexed every bit of power they had, and it was awesome. It worked out for them."Sherman also praised NBA superstars LeBron James and Kevin Durant for agreeing to short-term deals in order to take advantage of the league's salary structure."NBA players like KD and LeBron are sitting there taking two-year deals like it's nothing," Sherman said. "They figure, 'I'll take a two-year deal because I'm going to wait for the salary cap to increase and get another bite at the apple.' In our sport, they won't do it."Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Peyton Manning has been out of professional football since March 2016, but he's been keeping close tabs on the sports world since retiring.Manning hosted the 2017 ESPYS on Wednesday and took aim at the biggest figures in sports today.The five-time NFL MVP ripped into the Atlanta Falcons for blowing a 28-3 lead against the New England Patriots during Super Bowl LI, noting the NFC champions would stop paying attention to the show after three quarters.

Dak Prescott's meteoric rise during the 2016 season was capped in style Wednesday.Prescott, who earned Pro Bowl and Offensive Rookie of the Year honors for his standout campaign with the Dallas Cowboys, won the Best Breakthrough Athlete award at the ESPYS.

Bill Belichick has taken his signature cut-off sleeves look to the next level.The New England Patriots head coach was spotted wearing an incredible cut-off shirt/shorts combination - and flashing a rare smile - while enjoying some time outdoors Wednesday:

Matt Ryan may have won the official MVP award, but Aaron Rodgers is the people's champion.The Green Bay Packers quarterback was named Best NFL Player at the fan-voted ESPYS on Wednesday.

Tony Romo is at peace with his decision to retire from professional football.Romo announced he'd hang up his cleats on April 4, and was promptly hired as an analyst for CBS Sports.Although many believe he could still be a capable starter in the NFL, the former Dallas Cowboys standout ruled out any chance of returning to the field on Wednesday."Oh yeah, probably a good chance. We'll see how it plays out. I think you'll find - I'm joking," Romo said on NFL Total Access, according to Marc Sessler of NFL.com. "Like I said before, I'm done."Romo spoke at length about his excitement for his new job, admitting that there'd be a learning curve."I'm pretty happy and excited about the opportunity that was presented to me," he said. "I got coach (and veteran CBS play-by-play man) Jim Nantz teaching me all the tricks of the trade. I'm going to be behind him, but I'm improving fast. I'm excited about it. It gives me a chance to compete, get better and improve. I get to be passionate about the game, hopefully teach a little bit, hopefully make it a little bit entertaining along the way. It's going to be fun."Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New Orleans Saints superfan Jarrius Robertson received a special gift from the team ahead of the ESPY Awards on Wednesday night.Saints owners Tom and Gayle Benson announced they're donating $25,000 to the 15-year-old to assist with his medical costs. The total will be matched by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.

Job security should never be taken for granted in the NFL, but Green Bay Packers general manager Ted Thompson can rest easy this summer.Thompson, who has served as the Packers' general manager since 2005, built the nucleus of a perpetual Super Bowl contender, capturing the Lombardi Trophy under his watch in 2010.One of the longest-tenured executives in the league, he isn't going anywhere anytime soon, according to Packers president and CEO Mark Murphy."Ted and I, we have a great relationship. As long as he wants to continue to work, and he's still doing a good job - and I think he still does a great job for us - we want him to continue to be our general manager," Murphy told Jason Wilde of the Wisconsin State Journal. "At a point he decides he doesn't want to do it anymore for whatever reason, then we would do a search."The Packers value long-term stability more than most organizations, with Thompson operating as the 11th general manager in the team's 98-year history. Boasting a track record that puts most to shame, he'll continue in search of another Super Bowl for one of the NFL's most storied franchises.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Wyoming quarterback Josh Allen is heralded as a potential No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming 2018 NFL Draft, and the university appears to share a common interest with the redshirt junior in protecting that future.Both Wyoming and Allen are reportedly working together to obtain an insurance policy for the star quarterback should he suffer an injury prior to draft night, according to Scott Nulph of WyomingSports.net.Allen confirmed the discussions by saying that an insurance policy is the likely course of action.Peter Prigge, Wyoming assistant athletic director for compliance, added that both he and Allen even attended an NCAA seminar about situations wherein players destined for the NFL can protect their futures."They walked us through a slew of different issues involving high-profile student-athletes and the NFL draft," Prigge said. "Everything from the process, team interviews, the combine, agents, insurance, financial advisers and investments."A player in a similar situation who wound up cashing in on his policy was former Michigan tight end Jake Butt. Butt took out a $2 million Loss of Value Insurance policy and, after falling to the Denver Broncos in the fifth round due to a torn ACL suffered in the Orange Bowl, received a total of $543,000 for his draft crash.Allen threw for 3,203 yards and 28 touchdowns on 56 percent passing last season for the Cowboys.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Missing on a pick in the first three rounds of your draft can be a deathblow to your fantasy title aspirations.While it's fun to take big swings in the middle and late rounds in hopes of landing the next breakout star, the beginning is the time to lock down surefire fantasy producers who will make up the core of your roster.Let's take a look at five players who are guaranteed to deliver on their draft slots in the opening rounds.David JohnsonDo we really need to make a case for a back who posted 2,118 total yards and 20 touchdowns in 2016?Johnson will be one of the first two picks in this year's drafts, and for good reason. The Cardinals star topped 100 combined yards in each of the 15 full games he participated in last season, and he's found the end zone 32 times over his first two NFL campaigns.Now his sights are set on 1,000 rushing yards and 1,000 receiving yards in the same year - a feat only he and Le'Veon Bell have a realistic chance at pulling off.As Carson Palmer nears the end of his career, the Cardinals are wisely leaning on Johnson to carry their team, and fantasy owners can safely do the same.Antonio BrownThe best pass-catcher in the NFL is also the best receiver in the fantasy world, having finished as the WR1 in PPR three straight years.Had Ben Roethlisberger retired, Brown's value would have taken a hit, but Big Ben is back at the helm of one of the league's most prolific offenses.Martavis Bryant's return from a year-long suspension could scare some faint-hearted fantasy owners, but a closer look reveals that Brown's two best seasons came when Bryant was lining up across from him in 2014 and 2015.With defenses forced to account for Bryant and star back Le'Veon Bell, all signs point to Brown topping 100 catches for the fifth consecutive season.Melvin GordonJohnson and Brown were obvious candidates for this list, but Gordon is the first player without an elite track record.After a slow rookie campaign, Gordon made a giant leap in his sophomore season, compiling 1,416 total yards and 12 touchdowns in 13 games. He had the third-most fantasy points among running backs prior to suffering a sprained PCL, which prevented him from appearing in the final three games and cost him his first 1,000-yard season.With some improvements to the offensive line and little competition challenging him for touches in the backfield, Gordon will pick up where he left off in 2016.Amari CooperCooper broke into the NFL with 72 receptions and 1,070 yards in his rookie year, and bested the numbers in his second year, hauling in 83 passes for 1,153 yards. The knock on him remains his red-zone usage, which has limited him to six and five touchdowns in his first seasons, respectively.There's reason to believe that this year could bring an even better version of Cooper. During the offseason, Derek Carr said "the dog" is "coming out" of his 23-year-old wideout, insinuating that he'll be more aggressive.The team also boasts an elite offensive unit, which should translate to plenty of scoring opportunities, giving Cooper a chance to remedy his touchdown deficiency. Even if he doesn't take a leap, you're still getting a player who has produced at a high level in both his pro seasons, and who has a high ceiling and an extremely high floor for his production.Doug BaldwinBaldwin had no chance of repeating his league-leading 14 touchdown receptions from 2015, but the Seahawks' No. 1 receiver put up another solid campaign in 2016, with 94 catches, 1,128 yards, and seven scores.It's worth noting that Russell Wilson was also injured throughout the season, so Baldwin's numbers could conceivably increase with a healthy Wilson under center.In Baldwin, fantasy owners get a low-end WR1 whose role is secure playing with one of the better passers in the NFL. You can't ask for much more than that in the third round.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

According to the NFL, it's much cheaper to move to Las Vegas than to Los Angeles.The Rams and Chargers, who will both be playing in L.A., will pay $645 million between December 2019 and December 2028, while the Raiders will pay $378 million over 10 years to relocate to Las Vegas, sources told ESPN's Darren Rovell.The 29 NFL teams who are not or have not relocated to Los Angeles or Las Vegas are taking home a hefty profit from those who are.Each team will receive a sum of $55.2 million over an 11-year period stemming from the relocation fees paid by the Rams, Chargers, and Raiders.The Green Bay Packers released their projected net sum from the relocation fees as $27.1 million, accounting for present value of money over time and taxes, at a recent shareholders meeting.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Arizona Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians made a startling revelation about his childhood during an appearance on SiriusXM NFL Radio on Wednesday.On two separate occasions, Arians had to have his stomach pumped because he drank paint, according to The Ringer's Kevin Clark.Here's his explanation:

Joe Flacco is better than the average Joe.A new interactive study by Fanatics compiled NFL players' average statistics to show how they compare to those sharing their first name. The Baltimore Ravens quarterback averages 10.9 more touchdowns than other NFL Joes, while Tom Brady racks up nearly 1,500 yards more passing yards per season on average among his name class.Other notable findings:

Warning: Story contains coarse languageThe rare defensive back to maintain a high level of play well into his 30s, Brent Grimes has shown no signs of slowing down ahead of his 11th season in the NFL.But given the number of issues he has with the way the league does business, it probably shouldn't come as a surprise if he eventually chooses to walk away on his own terms.As part of a Sports Illustrated profile on Grimes and his wife, Miko, the Buccaneers corner revealed that he considered retiring and trying out for the NBA Development League earlier this offseason."The NFL doesn't have a cool vibe," Grimes told SI's Jack Dickey. "They make everyone look the same, with their shoes and socks the same way."Miko, who's long been critical of the NFL, called the sport "weak" and spoke of its "fucked up contracts and dirty owners."It's unclear whether Grimes will again weigh the possibility of retirement next winter, but the Buccaneers should be thrilled that he elected to put it off for at least another season.The 33-year-old was one of the NFL's most productive cover men after landing in Tampa Bay as a free agent last March, racking up four interceptions, 24 passes defensed, and 57 tackles across 16 starts.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Warning: Video contains coarse languageBuffalo Bills defensive tackle Adolphus Washington was arrested Sunday in Ohio for improperly carrying a concealed weapon, and TMZ Sports obtained footage of the arrest.In the video, an officer is heard telling Washington, "You don't know how lucky you are, man. That was close, buddy. That was very close."Washington had a gun in his hand when he was surrounded by officers."Why in the hell would you have that gun in your hand when we come stand right in front of you? What would you be thinking?" an officer asks."No. I wasn't reaching for it. I was putting it away. I already had it in my hand," Washington said.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The ultimate weapon out of the backfield, David Johnson has done well to solidify his case as arguably the NFL's top offensive playmaker.And the way his head coach sees it, with Johnson entering just his third season with the Arizona Cardinals, the sky is the limit.Bruce Arians explained as much in an appearance on "Good Morning Football" on Wednesday, referencing just how close his star running back came to joining the 1,000/1,000 club."He should have had it last year," Arians said, via Conor Orr of NFL.com. "He busted some routes in September that would have put him over easily. I was on his tail a little bit early in the season. I think he probably had a chance had he not gotten hurt in that last game, and thank goodness, knock on wood, he's fine."But yeah, I don't think there is a ceiling for him. He can run the football, he can start at wide receiver ... so we just have to watch that we don't overwork him."Finishing a season with over 1,000 rushing yards and 1,000 receiving yards would put Johnson in elite company. Only two players, Marshall Faulk and Roger Craig, have accomplished the feat in league history.Johnson, who figures to be a popular No. 1 overall pick in upcoming fantasy football drafts, finished his spectacular sophomore season with 1,239 rushing yards, 879 receiving yards, and 20 total touchdowns.Regardless of whether becomes the third member of the 1,000/1,000 club, the former third-rounder is unquestionable an all-purpose stud. And maintaining his production would be a great help in the Cardinals' efforts to get back to the playoffs.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Houston Texans broke the bank to trade up for Deshaun Watson in this year's draft, so it's likely a matter of when, not if, the rookie quarterback will earn the starting job in 2017 - especially with only journeyman Tom Savage in his way.However, Bill O'Brien's offense is notoriously difficult to master - Watson is no lock to be under center in Week 1. The former Clemson standout says he'll know he's ready when the head coach calls his number."Honestly, whenever Coach (O'Brien) and the coaches feel like I'm ready to go (I'll be ready)," Watson told NFL Network's Alex Flanagan on Tuesday, according to Conor Orr of NFL.com. "The team feels like they can operate with me behind the wheel and being the quarterback. It's gonna take time, it's gonna be a process, really no rush. Just kinda taking it one day at a time, and whenever that time comes, I'll be ready."The Texans are ready to win now, boasting one of the league's most dominant defenses along with strong offensive weapons in DeAndre Hopkins and Lamar Miller.Throwing a rookie quarterback into the mix is a risk, but Watson's arguably the most pro-ready quarterback in the 2017 class, and Houston is built in a way that can protect a rookie pivot.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

DeAngelo Williams revealed Wednesday there are four teams he wouldn't play for. Though he's currently a free agent, the 11-year veteran still has plenty to offer a team in need of production at the running back position.In light of Williams' no-thank-you list, here are four teams that should give the 34-year-old a call:San Francisco 49ersDuring his reveal to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Williams disclosed that he grew up a 49ers fan. It's the reason the Dallas Cowboys are among the teams he won't play for. In Williams, San Francisco could land the rare player who wants to be part of a rebuild.The Niners are in a weird spot. They're not currently in position to succeed and therefore likely value high draft picks over wins. It may not be conducive to their long-term plan to add a player who immediately makes them better.On the surface, they could use a veteran backup to Carlos Hyde, who missed three games last year and more than half of the previous season.John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan have been given six-year mandates, but it won't be long before they feel the pressure to succeed. Williams would help the club get results with what limited time he has left in the league.Pittsburgh SteelersIf any team knows the value Williams can provide, it's the Steelers. As Le'Veon Bell's backup for the past two seasons, Williams played in 25 games and produced 17 touchdowns. As a fill-in starter in 2015, he nearly rushed for 1,000 yards.Bell is the undisputed bell cow in Pittsburgh, but there's always the risk he could miss time. During his four-year career, Bell has missed a number of games due to suspensions and injuries. And a third suspension would force him to the sideline for more than four games.The Steelers know the value of a good backup running back. Williams has proven he can fill that role admirably for Pittsburgh.Los Angeles ChargersThe Chargers own a stable of running backs, but none able to immediately replace what Danny Woodhead, now with Baltimore, brings to the table.Melvin Gordon is the team's top back, with Branden Oliver, Kenneth Farrow, Andre Williams, and Kenjon Barner behind him, but Woodhead is both an adept rusher and receiver. He registered 755 receiving yards and six touchdowns for the team in 2015.Williams is capable of catching passes out of the backfield and providing Gordon with a veteran backup, in case his inconsistent play resurfaces.New York GiantsThe Giants own a championship roster, but a questionable running game may be their Achilles' heel.With talent throughout the lineup, the G-Men are hoping 2016 draft pick Paul Perkins will pan out as their No. 1 rusher. In the event he stumbles, however, Williams represents a smart insurance policy. A relatively cheap signing could play a significant role in where New York finishes in 2017.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

If you've ever wanted listen to music from a football, Rob Gronkowski has the product for you.The New England Patriots tight end has teamed up with Brookstone to create the Gronk Ball Speaker, a wireless Bluetooth speaker shaped like a football with a 90-foot range. Gronkowski appeared on the Home Shopping Network on Tuesday night to pitch the product."What's better than having a football that plays music?" he said. "You can have music throughout the house, at a tailgate party, with your boys throwing a football around. Football and music, can't get any better."Pop star Demi Lovato is apparently a fan.

For the second time in as many years, the NFL supplemental draft has come and gone without a player being scooped up.Neither Tavares Bingham nor Marques Rodgers, the only two prospects eligible for this year's late entry, were selected on Wednesday, the league confirmed.The supplemental draft provides an opportunity for teams to spend a corresponding future pick on a player whose NFL eligibility has changed since April's regular draft.Isaiah Battle was the last player selected in the annual summer event, joining the then-St. Louis Rams as a fifth-round pick back in 2015.Both Bingham and Rodgers will now become unrestricted free agents who can sign with any team.Bingham, a defensive end out of Georgia Military College, tallied three sacks last season. Rodgers is a running back who posted over 1,200 rushing yards combined in two years at Western New Mexico before being ruled academically ineligible in 2016.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.