Last offseason, the Baltimore Ravens' addition of Eric Weddle was one of the coups of free agency, as the star safety continued to play at the Pro Bowl-level he produced for nearly a decade while with the then-San Diego Chargers.This offseason, the Ravens bolstered their secondary once again by adding the underrated Tony Jefferson, potentially giving them one of the league's most dominant safety tandems in 2017.After acting as a mentor to less experienced players for the majority of his career, Weddle is grateful for a partner who knows the game inside out like he does."No disrespect to any of the guys I've played with, but it's nice not to have to explain why I do certain things or why I'm doing this in this coverage," Weddle said, according to The Baltimore Sun's Childs Walker. "From day one, he already had a feel for how I play and how to work off me."It frees me up a lot more mentally. I don't have to tell him after each play why I did this or, before the snap, let's do this. He already knows. That is just light years ahead of most guys I've played with. I've loved every guy I've played with, but he's just on another level."The Ravens will once again rely on their stellar defense to get them back to the playoffs after two seasons without a postseason appearance.Weddle's arrival pushed the Ravens from 24th in points allowed per game in 2015 (25.1) to 9th in 2016 (20.1), and Baltimore will likely hope their new starting safety pairing's growing chemistry will cook up another leap for the unit.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

A former employee at NFL Films has filed a civil lawsuit against the league-owned company, alleging multiple incidents of sexual harassment, according to NJ.com.Nadia Axakowsky, a voice-over actor, claims she was "discriminated against, sexually harassed, retaliated against by her employer solely due to her sex and for complaining of the ongoing harassment" and that former supervisors made unwanted advances. She alleges one in particular, Glenn Adamo, groped her more than once.She said she complained to her employers about the harassment and believes the company did not properly investigate the issue.Axakowsky was fired by NFL Films in September 2016.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Matt Williamson is a former scout for the Cleveland Browns and spent 10 years at ESPN as a scout and co-host of "The Football Today Podcast."What if you were to build the ideal player at every position? We decided to do exactly that by taking the head, eyes, arm/hands, body, and feet of a great player and assembling the ideal specimen. We also decided that you could only use one aspect of each player and that we could not double-dip. Here, we tackle linebackers in Part 7 of our eight-part series.Kuechly is the NFL’s best second-level player and is on a Hall of Fame pace. He is a vastly underrated athlete that can flat-out run with most tight ends and running backs. He is a superb tackler and a physical player overall. Reminiscent of greats like Ray Lewis before him, what takes Kuechly to the next level is his fantastic mind for the game.It helps that he covers an obscene amount of ground in coverage in the middle of the field, but his knowledge of opposing quarterbacks, offensive schemes, and route combinations are unparalleled. Kuechly also possesses terrific ball skills. As a run defender, there is little to no wasted movement and Kuechly usually diagnoses the play instantaneously. He's also the captain of Carolina’s defense and an unquestioned leader. He has it all.Lee is similar to Kuechly in many ways. He is an underrated pure athlete and like Kuechly, has a great head for playing linebacker and getting his troops around him in line and on the right page. Dallas’ defense takes a huge step backward when Lee is injured, which unfortunately has been his biggest problem throughout his career.Lee sees the game extremely well, and often diagnoses run plays before they occur. He sees the entire field as a zone-coverage defender and reads the quarterback’s eyes, body language, and intentions as well as any linebacker in the league. There's a strong argument that Lee is the NFL’s second-best linebacker behind Kuechly.Hightower is a big, thick, physical presence and a great downhill player. He might be the best blitzer among second-level players in the league, and he is a tremendous take-on player against fullbacks and offensive linemen, displaying excellent hand-usage to shock the offensive player and shed with vigor.He's also nimble in space, but his powerful punch and jolt on contact with his arms and hands are second to none in the NFL. Hightower generates a great deal of power from his legs, hips, and a powerful core and unleashes it via his big, powerful hands pounding into his prey.Second-level players come in all shapes and sizes. Some great linebackers like Zach Thomas and Sam Mills were labeled “undersized.” Collins doesn’t resemble those two in the faintest, however, and his long, flexible body was selected because of how well it matches up against today’s tight ends in the passing game.Collins also has the body type to be a premier edge rusher and could have a very successful career just coming off the edge as a 3-4 outside linebacker. Collins is a rare athlete who is both fluid and explosive. He has the narrow waist of a male model with the hip-turn to quickly transition into running alongside receivers downfield. Collins’ change of direction is also exceptional for a taller player. His body type is ideal for today’s NFL.Injuries and inconsistency have been Shazier’s nemeses thus far in his career, but there's no question this is an improving player and quite possibly the most important member of Pittsburgh’s defense. Since the day he stepped on the field at the NFL level, he has stood out, putting together quite a highlight-reel in a relatively short time.When he's right, Shazier plays the game at a different speed. Even the most novice NFL viewer can watch the Steelers' defense and see that Shazier stands out. His speed is simply amazing, and he closes on his target at an elite level. He also displays great footwork while changing directions, spending very little time in transition.If he can play all 16 games and become a little more consistent, Shazier might soon be a candidate for Defensive Player of the Year.Other entries in the series:

Are you ready for Eargate? (Ear-o-gate?)In a post-football profile, former Indianapolis Colts offensive lineman Tarik Glenn revealed that he and his linemen were fitted with hearing aids, a device that's not allowed in the NFL."We were playing on the road, it might have been Peyton (Manning)'s rookie year and it was really loud," Glenn explained to Clifton Brown of the Indianapolis Star. "Peyton hadn't mastered the silent count, so (former offensive line coach) Howard Mudd had us wearing these hearing aids that were supposed to muffle the crowd while projecting the quarterback's voice."Glenn made the unintended admission in an article on a completely unrelated topic, as he attempted to share a moment of levity from his playing days.Manning's rookie year took place in 1998, and Mudd served as a coach with the Colts until 2009.Such an infraction would normally merit discipline from the league, but it would take quite an investigation to determine when and for how long the Colts used such a practice.It is the offseason, however, and if those in the league offices have some free time, we just might have another "gate" on our hands.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Sage Rosenfels is a former 12-year NFL quarterback who writes, does radio, and podcasts about the NFL and college football.The NFL, and football in general, has a major problem.The concern with concussions and bodily injuries, at all levels of the sport, has had a negative impact on the participation rates in America's youth leagues. The reasons are obvious: parents are becoming more and more cautious with their children as it relates to the injuries which occur in the sport of football, and rightfully so.So far, the NFL's answer seems to be better equipment, and education of coaches to teach proper technique at the youth level. While these are both viable solutions to the problem, they will only bring down the number of head, bone, and soft tissue injuries by a limited amount. Something has to change - and Drew Brees wants to be a part of the solution.The way to fix the problem with playing football is to not play football - at least in its current form. I regularly have concerned parents ask me about the proper age to play tackle football. My answer is always the same. "At what age would you let your child box?" I usually get a confused glance in return.The way I see it, even though football and boxing are so different, both result in regular blows to the head and body. If offensive or defensive linemen play 50 snaps in a youth football game, I would estimate that they get hit in the head on 30-40 of those plays. They may not be "car accident" type hits, but they are still small jabs which add up over time.For a running back, linebacker, or safety, they may "only" have 20 hits to their helmet. The problem is, since they are positioned further from their opponent and can generate more speed leading up to contact, those hits are often much more severe. Rather than jabs, 5-10 of these are more like uppercuts. These are estimates based only off me playing the sport after high school for 17 years.Football, as a sport, is flawed. This is a fact. If you play tackle football, your body and brain will take a beating (with a few exceptions based on a player's position).Brees, who will statistically go down as one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever put on a helmet, has formed a new league in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Covington, La. It's a co-ed league that is 7-on-7 only. I believe that this type of league is the answer to the sport's biggest problem: injuries.I grew up in a small town in eastern Iowa. Though we watched football on television, we didn't use helmets and shoulder pads until the eighth grade. Brees, who is from football obsessed Texas, didn't strap on a helmet until ninth grade. Yet somehow I played for 12 years in the NFL, and Brees is entering his 17th.This happens more often than people realize. Football is just so different than other sports such as basketball, baseball, tennis, and golf.To make it to the highest levels of the sport, football players need to be incredible athletes. They either have to be huge, fast, and strong, or extremely talented at a unique skill such as punting, kicking, or throwing. For the positions that take size and/or speed, playing the sport at a young age in pads offers minimal advantages to becoming better players as they get older.If a junior in high school grows to 6-2 and 240 pounds and is a good athlete, some good coaching can bring him up to speed in a short amount of time. One of my former teammates with the Houston Texans, Chester Pitts, didn't even play football until his senior year in high school. Because of his size and raw athletic ability, he received a scholarship to San Diego State and went on to have a long NFL career.This simply doesn't happen in other sports - but these stories aren't hard to find around the league. Despite having no youth football experience, some players have advanced to the highest levels of the game because they have natural ability that can't be taught or practiced. They have various combinations of size, strength, or speed. Most of this comes from their DNA, not from hours spent in a weight room during elementary or middle school.For the players that end up playing these positions, I don't believe there is much of an advantage to starting tackle football before high school, as long as they have good coaching once the pads are on. Also, if they receive proper coaching, they can improve their technique with drills, without the need for violent impact.For the skill positions, which include those who touch the ball and those who cover players who touch the ball, there is a major void that needs to be filled. Though participation in flag football has increased in recent years, there needs to be another level of structure and coaching to advance the sport.Football is an individualized game. The subtle nuances of each position are unique. That knowledge is only understood on the deepest levels at the very top of the sport. Despite my long career, I couldn't tell you exactly what a defensive lineman or linebacker's technique should be during a play.My expertise is in the passing game. I understand quarterbacks, wide receivers, and the way defensive coverages operate. If you ask Jared Allen or Tedy Bruschi about the fine details of the quarterback and the passing game, I assume they would acknowledge that their understanding of these aspects of football isn't exactly comprehensive.In sports like baseball or basketball, most good coaches know a fair amount about all the positions on their team. There is far more overlap in the coaching that occurs at each position on a basketball court than on a football field.This is why an NFL team has up to 25 coaches on staff. It's impossible to have deep knowledge about every aspect of the game. The great ones, such as Bill Belichick, could coach every position on the field. This is much rarer than people realize, which is why Belichick is the greatest coach ever.Enter Brees and his Football 'N' America league.His plan is to take flag football to another level. He and co-founder Chris Stuart plan to increase the understanding of the passing game by "passing" Brees' knowledge on to the local coaches and commissioners. Each coach and commissioner in the league will receive video tutorials and starter playbooks. Youth coaches will be able to install tried-and-true NFL passing game concepts without having to attend expensive coaching clinics.This information is priceless. I can only imagine how much I would have benefited as a quarterback if, at age 10, I was being taught the reads of even a basic NFL offense. Over time, I would have become a more accurate thrower because my receivers and I could rep these pass patterns thousands of times. Receivers would be learning proper wide receiver technique, and they could use these new skills in a predesigned format of pass patterns.I have no doubt that the skills of throwing and catching a football would increase at a higher rate than the current model. By contrast, youth tackle football must dedicate an exorbitant amount of time dealing with line play, which as I stated earlier, ends up being more about nature instead of nurture.I've learned many things in my time around sports. I lettered in five sports in high school, and now have three children who are active in a variety of leagues.There are three main aspects to an athlete improving. First, they can try to physically improve their strength, speed, and power by training with a strength and conditioning coach. Second, a person’s mental and emotional state must evolve over their lifetime. Lastly, and the one that Brees is trying to raise, is the skill level of the participants.While all positions in football have unique skills, none are more complex as the ability to throw and catch a football consistently. Heck, Sam Bradford set an NFL completion percentage record last year and still failed three out of 10 times. To improve the skills needed in the passing game, young football players don't have to wear pads or a helmet. They don't have to tackle each other. They need to throw and catch, a lot.Yes, there is contact in flag football and 7-on-7, but the blows are much less severe and way less common. Over time, the skill position players would improve at a much faster pace, and the rates of youth concussions, broken bones, and deep bruises, will drop significantly.Also, since most science states that CTE is caused by repeated blows to the head over years and years, I would assume that those numbers would go down as well. This is the most important positive of all.If Football 'N' America prospers, I believe the rewards could be astounding.Brees has made the league co-ed, which means that more girls will be able to participate. Young girls will better understand the complexities of the game while having a chance to compete against their peers. This means the NFL could have millions of girls, who have finally had a chance to play the game, become fans of the sport, something the NFL would love to see.Over time, I believe we will see fewer horror stories of former players struggling with injuries sustained while playing. This is the most important aspect of the idea. Retired NFL players who are dealing with terrible head trauma are a nightmare for the league and its players. Playing 7-on-7 longer will surely cause those horror stories to decrease in the decades to come.My biggest concern is greed. The companies who make helmets, shoulder pads, and other gear necessary for tackle football will see their bottom line take a hit. This is a reality. But, these companies will also have the opportunity to create new gear (light helmets) for these passing leagues.The economics of football, like most businesses, are complex. The people who are thinking to the future will win, while others who are stuck on the models of the past will lose. Those who want to sell more helmets to 10-year-olds may attempt to delay the 7-on-7 movement.I love the sport of football. It has given me life lessons that I don't believe I could have gotten anywhere else. I want the sport to last forever and there is nothing like the excitement of a great football game. But the sport does have a problem. By the way it was designed, violent plays occur regularly and injuries are the result. The longer players can stay away from those injuries, the healthier the sport will become (literally and figuratively).I hope the sport can see past the short term profits that some of the businesses covet, and can look to the long-term future and viability of the sport I love so much.(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Denver Broncos might have a new entry into their quarterback competition in about two weeks' time.Chad Kelly, the Broncos' seventh-round draft pick and the final player selected in this year's NFL draft, is progressing in his recovery from right wrist surgery and remains in line to return in time for the team's training camp."Hopefully, I should start throwing within the next two weeks," Kelly said on NFL Network Friday, according to Max Meyer of NFL.com. "My goal is to get ready for training camp and try to help the team win in any way possible."Kelly underwent surgery in April to repair a ruptured ligament. The injury cut short his pro day workout ahead of the draft.The nephew of Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly currently figures to slot in as the Broncos' third quarterback.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

With the NFL on hiatus before preparations for the 2017 season truly get underway later this month, a host of active and former players from around the league took to Twitter on Tuesday to wish their followers a happy Fourth of July.

The Chicago Bears haven't posted a winning record since 2012. Coincidentally, that's also the last year stud linebacker Brian Urlacher played for them.After 13 seasons in the Windy City, Urlacher retired from football after the 2012 season. The Bears haven't been the same since, and Urlacher believes it all stems from the team's decision to let go of head coach Lovie Smith after that campaign.The Bears posted a 10-6 record that year and just missed out on the postseason. Nevertheless, the team's management chose to ax the popular head coach. Since then, Chicago hasn't managed a record better than .500."I like to say it's the Lovie Curse," Urlacher said Thursday on the "Tiki and Tierney Show" on CBS Sports Radio. "Because since he left, (the Bears have struggled). He got fired being 10-6."Phil Emery took over as general manager of the club in Urlacher's last season and fired Smith following the 2012 campaign."I think they fire (Smith) either way. Even if we go to the playoffs, I think they fire him. I don't think the GM liked the way he coached the football team," Urlacher said.Smith coached the Bears for nine seasons from 2004-12, compiling a record of 81-63 and taking the club to the Super Bowl in 2006. Urlacher played for him throughout his tenure, and enjoyed the experience."The guy's a winner. I love playing for him," he said.After a year away from the game, Smith reemerged with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but was fired after two seasons.As for the Bears, Urlacher said he doesn't recognize his old franchise."I don't know what the identity of that team is right now," he said. "They sign (quarterback Mike) Glennon, then they draft a kid No. 2 (Mitch Trubisky). I don't know what ... It's confusing."Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Odell Beckham Jr.'s latest tattoo is an interesting one.The New York Giants wide receiver shared a photo of the new ink on his Instagram story Sunday, which depicts rapper Lil Wayne, reggae legend Bob Marley, and part of a 1997 Sports Illustrated cover featuring Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield.

Dallas Cowboys running back Darren McFadden confirmed Monday that his relatives, including one of his nephews, were among those attacked in a shooting at a Little Rock, Ark., nightclub Saturday morning.Twenty-eight people were injured, according to The Associated Press.McFadden released the following statement on Twitter:

Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh isn't backing down from anyone, including a New England Patriots team that captured Super Bowl LI and by many accounts, drastically improved over the summer.Related - Dolphins' Suh: 'We've never been scared of the New England Patriots'Suh stated in June that the Dolphins have "never been scared" of the Patriots since he joined the team in March 2015, and doubled down on his comments Monday."I think the Patriots are definitely beatable," Suh told ESPN. "It's just a matter of playing a good game, almost a perfect game in a lot of ways because they've got great coaching and obviously great players and talent on their side of the ball. So you've got to be going on all cylinders. Without question, I have a ton of respect for them, but without question, they’re definitely beatable as everybody is in the league."It's the correct approach to take even with the Patriots looming large over the rest of the league, in search of their third title in four years. Nonetheless, giving Tom Brady and Co. bulletin board material when the Dolphins square off against the Patriots twice a year may just be poking the proverbial bear.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nigel Bradham could avoid jail time after accepting a deferred prosecution deal, stemming from a July 2016 incident where he was charged with aggravated assault - a second-degree felony - ESPN's Tim McManus reports.Bradham was involved in an incident where he allegedly broke a hotel employee's nose at the Hilton Bentley Hotel in Miami on July 25, 2016.The Eagles' linebacker is facing a July 24 hearing for a separate misdemeanor gun charge, after bringing a loaded weapon through the security checkpoint at the Miami airport last October.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Brandon Williams received a five-year, $52.5-million contract this offseason, including $33.75 million in guaranteed money, but doesn't plan to rest on his laurels.The 28-year-old's set a new goal for himself on the field after emerging as one of the NFL's most dominant run-stoppers."I need to get my sacks up," Williams said to ESPN's Jamison Hensley. "I need to get my pass-rushing up. I am excited. I just had a meeting with our D-line coach, Coach (Joe) Cullen yesterday, about me kind of fine-tuning. I have the run-stop. I could still work on it, obviously, but I'm more just trying to work on my pass rush, trying to get out there and do the best I can."Last season, Williams recorded 51 tackles and a sack, numbers that belie his true impact on the field.Now he's looking to become an all-around threat as the Ravens seek to snap a two-year postseason hiatus."People say, 'Oh you got a contract, and now you can kind of relax.' There is no relaxing," Williams said. "It is actually that you got the contract, so now you have to earn your keep. So now you have to push the gas a little bit harder and kind of get as much as you can out of yourself to show people, 'Hey, I earned this.'"Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Matthew Stafford led the Detroit Lions to their second playoff appearance in three seasons last year and head coach Jim Caldwell couldn't be any more impressed with the leader of his team.Stafford completed 65.3 percent of his passes for 4,327 yards and 24 touchdowns against 10 interceptions, steering the Lions to a 9-7 record and a wild-card appearance.Although Stafford is entrenched as the face of the franchise, Caldwell believes he could reach a new level during the upcoming season."When we got here we found out some other things about him that you just didn’t see on film: His toughness, his intelligence, his desire. And all of those things, I think, without question rub off on his teammates," Caldwell said of Stafford to Clark Judge of the Talk of Fame Network."He's also unflappable in very, very tight situations. And he's improving. That's the other thing I think you find with guys at that position in this league: When they get to around their fifth, sixth, seventh year, there’s still a climb, there’s still an ascension. You can see the direction in which they’re going. Stats don’t always tell the story, but I think when you couple that with wins it does. And Matthew certainly is on the rise."It's a daunting proposition that Stafford could continue to improve entering his ninth season. For the time being, NFC North opponents are likely praying that Caldwell's assessment proves to be incorrect.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Colin Kaepernick hasn't been suspended. Nor is he coming off a scandal with any criminal elements. He even played relatively well in 2016 and isn't carrying any significant injuries.So why, John Lynch, should Kaepernick be required to conduct a public interview to confirm that he wants to continue his NFL career, essentially begging for a second chance?Related: 49ers GM Lynch advises Kaepernick to confirm football is his top priority"I would tell you with my conversations with Colin, he is fully committed to wanting to be in this league," Lynch said. "I gave that opinion to Colin myself: 'I think you are having a little bit of an image crisis in terms of, not so much what you did last year, but people are wondering: Is this most important to you?' At a position where the guys who succeed at the position are the guys who live it, breathe it, the CEOs at that position. And I think there is a perception that football is not at the top of the list."Putting aside the egregious notion that someone can't be both a starting NFL quarterback and a committed philanthropist, which has countless examples to the contrary, the San Francisco 49ers' general manager - while seemingly with good intentions, as he praised Kaepernick's work ethic - isn't doing his former quarterback any favors by making a statement like this.Firstly, Kaepernick is damned if he does, damned if doesn't. In all likelihood, a fair portion of the people calling for Kaepernick to reaffirm his passion for football or who were against his protests would also criticize him for drawing "unnecessary" attention to himself.The we-want-our-athletes-to-shut-up-and-not-express-any-opinions-like-actual-human-beings crowd would likely have a field day.You can't argue teams are staying away from Kaepernick because he's too much of a distraction, especially for a backup quarterback, and also demand he holds a press conference.Secondly, as previously mentioned, Kaepernick shouldn't need an image-fixing PR move. He isn't Ray Rice. While some view his protests in a negative light, he didn't do anything illegal, and most would agree he took a morally correct stance, even if some believe he shouldn't have done so during an event like the anthem.And Kaepernick isn't exactly all talk and no walk. As of early June, he has donated $700,000 to charitable causes as part of a $1-million pledge to help oppressed communities. If that hasn't changed some people's opinions of him, a press conference almost certainly won't.Lastly, while Kaepernick was the first and most prominent player to protest during the national anthem last season, he wasn't the only one. Far from it.Antonio Cromartie knelt during the season and is currently a free agent. Does he want to play football?Denver Broncos linebacker Brandon Marshall did too, and Green Bay Packers tight end Martellus Bennett was among many to raise his fist during the anthem at some point during the regular season.Yes, those two players are both currently on teams, but where are the questions about how important football is to them? Both are noted social activists, and Bennett may have more interests and hobbies outside of football than any other NFL player.Can Bennett be fully committed to football while also doing charity work, creating music and animated short films, and running his own production company? Of course he can. Questioning his passion doesn't even enter anyone's mind.So why does it for Kaepernick?He's visited with the Seattle Seahawks, and even if that wasn't enough to convince teams he wants to play, they could, you know, just pick up the phone and ask him! That's a general manager's job. Teams shouldn't need a press conference to find this out.And that's the main reason why Kaepernick shouldn't follow Lynch's advice.The NFL and its owners don't want more political protests during games, as they believe it alienates some of its audience. Kaepernick saying in a press conference he's still committed to a career in football, despite his protests and social work, would essentially be viewed as an apology for his actions - a final admission that the NFL machine has ground him down.Kaepernick knows this, and it's why he'll likely avoid doing it. He knew when he started his protest that he was risking his NFL career, and the vitriolic backlash confirmed it.If teams want to assess the 29-year-old's state of mind, they should do what they normally do and bring him in for a visit or arrange a meeting.In what may be Kaepernick's last stand against the NFL, he shouldn't waver, even it unfairly means he's played his last down.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Could DeAngelo Williams be on the road to the WWE?Williams won his pro wrestling debut for Impact Wrestling on Sunday, taking down the tandem of Eli Drake and Chris Adonis at Slammiversary XV as part of a tag team with former NFL lineman-turned-wrestler Quinn "Moose" Ojinnaka.

Denver Broncos linebacker Brandon Marshall is taking his civic duty seriously during the offseason.Marshall has been an active participant during the opening days of NBA free agency - even joining the Nuggets organization in Atlanta to pitch Paul Millsap, a highly coveted free-agent power forward, a source told the Denver Post's Nick Kosmider.When it was reported Sunday that Millsap will sign a three-year, $90-million contract with the Nuggets, Marshall couldn't contain his excitement.

New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr.'s inimitable swagger was on full display Sunday, impressing a crowd of awestruck teens.Nike Football conducted its annual event, "The Opening," designed to help elite high school players further develop their skills, going through a wide array of drills in front of a national audience.Beckham, who recently signed a lucrative deal with Nike, arrived on a red golf cart, much to the surprise of participants everywhere.

Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill is elevating the bar for his franchise after making the playoffs for the first time in his career.Tannehill took command of the offense during head coach Adam Gase's first year with the team, before suffering a season-ending knee injury in December.Entering his sixth season, Tannehill believes this is the best Dolphins team he's played on."Honestly, I can say it’s definitely the most talent we've had with the receiving corps, bringing everyone back, having a second year together in the same offense,” Tannehill said to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald. “That’s going to be huge for us. Adding (tight ends) Julius Thomas and Anthony Fasano, veterans who have played a lot of football, is (big). Bringing back (running backs) Jay (Ajayi), Kenyan Drake."Keeping most of the offensive line together, adding a few pieces. Putting Laremy Tunsil back at his natural position. That's going to be huge for us. You start to stack all those pieces together and we have a good unit. Now it's a matter of being able to elevate our play throughout the season. Just because you have good pieces doesn't mean you're going to perform. That's what the onus was on all spring. That's what it's on throughout the summer. As we hit training camp, it's pushing each other each and every day to go out and be great. Not just be good, but really be great."After stumbling to a 1-4 start, many analysts dismissed the Dolphins' chances of reaching the playoffs, before Tannehill and running back Jay Ajayi led a resurgent effort to sneak into the AFC field at 10-6. With a second year under Gase's tutelage, the Dolphins won't be sneaking up on anyone.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady finally addressed his wife's claim that he suffered a concussion during the 2016 season.During an interview on "CBS This Morning" that aired on May 17, Gisele Bundchen said Brady suffered a concussion during the 2016 campaign but played through it. Bundchen's comments were considered controversial in large part due to the fact that the Patriots never listed Brady with a concussion on the team's injury report.Brady, however, was listed on the report several times with knee and thigh ailments.The Patriots' superstar spoke to ESPN's "E:60" Sunday about the concussion claim, but avoided explicitly mentioning whether he indeed suffered the injury."She's there every day. I mean, we go to bed in the same bed every night, so I think she knows when I'm sore, she knows when I'm tired, she knows when I get hit. We drive home together (from games). But, she also knows how well I take care of myself. She's a very concerned wife and very loving," Brady said, via John Breech of CBS Sports.Despite Bundchen's concerns about Brady's long-term health, the quarterback says she supports his desire to play well into his mid-forties."She'll support me as long as I continue to want to play," Brady said. "She's like my mom, the two of them together sitting next to each other in the suite watching me get hit all day, I'm sure it's not fun, but they know how well I take care of myself, too."It may never be known whether Brady suffered a concussion, but it remains clear that the quarterback is undeterred by the perils of professional football and aims to lead the Patriots well into the next decade, with a host of teams looking to dethrone the reigning champions.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Colin Kaepernick has been keeping busy this offseason despite remaining unsigned, most recently joining San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Marquise Goodwin on a trip to Egypt.The free-agent quarterback popped up in some of Goodwin's Instagram photos, which show them visiting the Temple of Philae in Aswan and the Temple of Horus in Edfu.

Each week, theScore will go division by division, highlighting which three players' performances will most impact their team's season in 2017.Dalvin CookLatavius Murray may get the first crack at replacing Adrian Peterson in the Vikings' backfield, but before long expect Cook to make his presence felt. Minnesota didn't use the 41st overall pick on the running back just to have him sit as a passenger on a team with Super Bowl aspirations.Cook should provide the Vikings with the rushing and receiving threat necessary to expand their offense - something they sorely lacked last season - as he's a home-run threat every time he touches the ballWhether Cook can replicate his college success at the pro level will determine how large an impact he'll have on Minnesota's 2017 season.Riley Reiff(Photo courtesy: Action Images)The Vikings' offensive line was a sieve in 2016, allowing 38 quarterback sacks. Left tackle was a particular sore spot, as T.J. Clemmings allowed 8.5 sacks in 14 starts and Matt Kalil gave up another 1.5 in two.Enter Reiff. The Vikings signed the free-agent tackle to a five-year, $58.75-million deal - a sign of just how desperate Minnesota was for immediate improvement at the position.The Vikings also added right tackle Mike Remmers via free agency, but protecting the blindside of Sam Bradford - and Teddy Bridgewater if he's able to play in 2017 - is of the utmost importance.Laquon Treadwell(Photo courtesy: Getty Images)Stefon Diggs established himself as a No. 1 receiver in 2016, while Adam Thielen emerged as a viable complementary piece. Treadwell, however, had a nightmare rookie season, recording just one catch all year.The Vikings know they need more production from their wideouts and are banking on a low-risk, high-reward outcome from their signing of Michael Floyd. However, with Floyd facing a potential suspension to begin the year, Treadwell could get an opportunity.The 22-year-old was a first-round draft pick last year because he has the size and skill to be an impactful NFL receiver. He's also overcome disappointment before, returning from a devastating leg injury in his sophomore year at college to finish the following season as a finalist for the top receiver in the country.If Treadwell can find his footing in the NFL, the Vikings will be better for it.Also from this series

Derek Carr surpassed Andrew Luck as the highest-paid player in NFL history when he signed a five-year, $125-million contract extension with the Oakland Raiders last week, but Carr's time at the top could be short-lived.There are a few quarterbacks in line to approach or perhaps surpass Carr's high-water mark this summer, and more looking to reach the salary summit in the future.Who will be next to claim the title of highest paid in NFL history? Here are our best guesses:Kirk Cousins, RedskinsPrediction: Signs five-year, $127-million deal in July 2017The Redskins have thus far balked at signing Cousins long term, opting instead to use the franchise tag on him in consecutive offseasons. They'll pay (literally) for not having the foresight to lock him up sooner.This year, the franchise tag will pay Cousins $23.94 million, the highest base salary in the league. Tagging Cousins for a third consecutive year would be all but impossible, as it would escalate Cousins' salary to the $34-million range. Cousins can use his 2018 tag price as a baseline for negotiations, giving him major leverage.Is Cousins a top-5 quarterback? Probably not. But he's proven to be an above-average starter and the Redskins simply can't afford to let him go and begin their search for a franchise player anew. They could spend the next decade searching for a player of his quality.Though there are rumors the Redskins and Cousins remain far apart on a deal (and whispers that Cousins might prefer to get paid elsewhere), there is too much at stake for both sides not to come to terms before the franchise tag deadline July 15. When they do, Cousins should leapfrog Carr as the highest-paid player in league history.Matthew Stafford, LionsPrediction: Signs five-year, $128-million deal in August 2017Like Cousins, Stafford isn't necessarily an elite quarterback but can demand to be paid like one because of the leverage he holds. Stafford is coming off arguably the best season of his career (in his first year without Calvin Johnson, no less), led the Lions to the postseason for the third time in his eight NFL seasons, and won't turn 30 until 2018. Without him, the Lions might be a three- or four-win team.With Stafford due to earn $16.5 million in the final year of his current deal, it would behoove the Lions to extend him before the regular season begins, so they can best spread out his cap hit and reserve the use of next year's franchise tag for another player (such as Ezekiel Ansah).Stafford has said he's in no rush to sign, possibly because he recognizes he can wait until Cousins signs and then use that deal as a framework for his own. The eve of the regular season could be when pen hits paper.Aaron Rodgers, PackersPrediction: Signs five-year, $136-million contract in March 2018.Cousins and Stafford are obvious candidates to surpass Carr's record deal, but the next player in line is harder to identify. Blake Bortles was once considered a candidate for the title, but his play fell off badly in 2016 and it's far from a lock he'll be seen as a starter by 2018. Jimmy Garoppolo has a chance, but would a team really make him the highest-paid player in history if Tom Brady stays healthy this season and Garoppolo hits free agency with only two career starts? Jameis Winston and Marcus Mariota are on track for record salaries, but neither is likely to re-sign before 2019.The best bet is that it will be Rodgers who breaks the record. The two-time MVP still has three years remaining on the seven-year, $130.75-million contract he signed in 2013, but with salaries of $12.55 million, $19.8 million, and $20 million scheduled for the next three seasons, Rodgers is undeniably underpaid.Rodgers has hinted he wants a new deal and the Packers know they can't pay the best quarterback in football less than lesser players like Carr, Cousins, and Stafford and expect him to be happy.Recent salary cap increases have provided the Packers with all the room they need to give Rodgers a healthy raise. They could do it this summer, but it's more likely they will wait until next year.(Photos courtesy: Action Images)Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Thomas Randolph, a convicted double murderer and Dallas Cowboys fan from Las Vegas, showed up to his sentencing hearing Friday wearing a Tony Romo jersey."Since I've been 12, I've been a Cowboys fan," the 62-year-old said from his holding cell, according to David Ferrara of the Las Vegas Review-Journal. "It gives me comfort, even in here."

Sammy Watkins is the latest NFL star to suggest he and his peers are underpaid.He expects to be part of the group that changes that.Following the eye-opening deals handed out in NBA free agency, including Stephen Curry's record-setting $201-million deal, several NFL players have tweeted about their contract envy.Watkins weighed in Sunday morning:

Cincinnati Bengals receiver A.J. Green is perfectly happy to see his role in the offense diminished if it means his team's shot at a Super Bowl is improved.Green averaged a career-high 6.6 receptions per game in 10 games played last season, largely because the Bengals lacked other reliable receiving weapons with Tyler Eifert hurt for much of the season.This year, the team expects to have Eifert back healthy and added speedster John Ross in the first round of the draft to help take the pressure off Green.Green says the extra firepower might allow him to have a year like Atlanta Falcons wideout Julio Jones had last season."I know what I’m capable of doing," Green told Geoff Hobson of the Bengals' official website. "Never a doubt in my mind. Last year I had opportunities and just took advantage of them. In 2015 I felt like I had a good season, but we had all the weapons. I didn’t have that many targets, but I still had good yardage. This year it’s just not me and Brandon (LaFell) and four young guys. Everything doesn’t have to be forced to me, which I like."That’s the goal. Win the Super Bowl," Green added. "Look at the year Julio had. He was coming off an 1,800-yard season and he had what last year? (1,409). That’s because they put all the weapons around him. He still made the same plays he made when he had the 1,800 yards, but when they double-teamed him they had (Sanu) and (Tyler) Gabriel. They’ve got to respect those guys. They went to the Super Bowl and Julio had (1,400) yards. It’s all about what you want. That’s the ultimate goal is to win the championship."Both Green and Jones entered the NFL as high draft picks in 2011 and their careers have been fairly similar, with one key point of differentiation being their disparate success in the playoffs. Jones played in the Super Bowl last season; Green has yet to win a playoff game.- With h/t to NFL.comCopyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Each week, theScore will go division by division, highlighting which three players' performances will most impact their team's season in 2017.Aaron Rodgers(Photo courtesy: Action Images)The NFL world knew how great Aaron Rodgers was prior to the 2016 season, but few realized just how dependent the Packers were on their star quarterback."What's wrong with Aaron Rodgers?" was the type of headline that dominated the NFL landscape as the Packers stumbled out of the gate with Rodgers looking shockingly mortal. However, the two-time MVP showed how ridiculous it was to question whether he remained among the league's elite, throwing 18 touchdowns to zero picks down the stretch.So while Rodgers is an obvious choice, the Packers' offense just doesn't work when he isn't playing at a superhuman level. Green Bay lives and dies on Rodgers' arm.Martellus BennettRodgers' improvement last season coincided with tight end Jared Cook's return to health in Week 11. Cook caught six passes for 105 yards and one score during that game, and while he never reached those statistical heights again, he provided a much-needed new dimension to the Packers' passing game.Cook left in free agency, but Green Bay found a superior replacement in Bennett, who caught 55 passes for 701 yards and seven touchdowns last season with the Patriots.Bennett could be in line for a career year with the Packers, as his role should be larger than it was with New England. Green Bay's receiving corps is solid, but it showed its limitations last season. Bennett is the offense's X-factor.Kevin King(Photo courtesy: Getty Images)Only the New Orleans Saints gave up more passing yards per game than Green Bay last season, and it didn't get much better for the Packers once they hit the postseason, as they gave up an average of nearly 30 points and 326 yards in three games.For too long, the secondary has been the Packers' Achilles heel, robbing the team of a chance at winning a second Lombardi Trophy during the Rodgers era.King is a tall, physical corner who should be able to start from Day 1, albeit with some growing pains. The Packers brought back Davon House in free agency, and are likely banking on bounce-back years from Quinten Rollins and Damarious Randall. So while King won't be asked to be a star straight away, the Packers will be praying he can jump-start the secondary.Also from this series

Baltimore Ravens left tackle Ronnie Stanley is expected to be the team's long-term anchor on the offensive line, and received a ringing endorsement from his predecessor recently.Stanley compiled a strong rookie season after being selected sixth overall in the 2016 NFL Draft, grading out as the 26th-best offensive tackle out of 78 eligible candidates, according to Pro Football Focus.While preparing for the upcoming season, Stanley gained high praise from Hall of Fame tackle Jonathan Ogden, who spent his entire career with the Ravens."He told me to just keep doing what I’m doing," Stanley said via ESPN's Jamison Hensley. "He likes what he sees, so I’m happy with that."Ravens head coach John Harbaugh echoed Ogden's sentiments."I would say probably out of all the offensive linemen, he asks the best questions out of anybody I have been around - certainly any young player," Harbaugh said.Stanley is one of the NFL's best young tackles and it appears he could be destined for greatness after living up to his lofty draft position.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Nearly four months after opting out his contract with the San Francisco 49ers, Colin Kaepernick remains a free agent. Now, well into the summer, Kaepernick is receiving unsolicited advice from the unlikeliest of sources.49ers general manager John Lynch believes that Kaepernick would be well-served by releasing a statement, confirming his desire to play professional football. Lynch previously stated that Kaepernick would've been released by the 49ers if he hadn't opted out of his previous deal."I think the way you could best help yourself is not to have someone talk for you, not have statements, but go sit down and give an interview and let people know where you stand because he makes a compelling case as to how bad he wants to be in the league when you talk to him," Lynch said recently of Kaepernick during a radio appearance on KNBR.Lynch's comments appear to be somewhat disingenuous, seeing that the 49ers would've released Kaepernick under his oversight.The executive clarified that he believes Kaepernick wants to play football, but there's a perception that exists that he's solely focused on protesting police brutality and racial inequality."I would tell you with my conversations with Colin, he is fully committed to wanting to be in this league," Lynch said. "I gave that opinion to Colin myself: ‘I think you are having a little bit of an image crisis in terms of, not so much what you did last year, but people are wondering: Is this most important to you?’ At a position where the guys who succeed at the position are the guys who live it, breathe it, the CEOs at that position. And I think there is a perception that football is not at the top of the list."In any event, the timing of Lynch's comments are certainly curious, as Kaepernick remains on the open market despite a bevy of lesser quarterbacks receiving contracts this summer.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston is armed with the most weapons he's ever had during his professional career, and to no surprise, the 23-year-old couldn't be happier.The Buccaneers signed wide receiver DeSean Jackson to a three-year, $33.5-million contract in March and drafted Penn State standout Chris Godwin in the third round of the 2017 draft. However, Winston couldn't help but single out first-round pick O.J. Howard as a talent to watch, as he's become enamored with his new target's athleticism."They're dynamic," Winston said Saturday to NFL Network's Tiffany Blackmon. "We haven't had a true deep-threat guy in Tampa Bay and now we have DeSean. So we're excited to throw him a couple bombs. O.J., man, he's just a specimen. We're privileged to have O.J. Howard."Winston said he's never played with a player like Howard and believes he'll make an immediate impact for the Buccaneers, who are looking to make the playoffs for the first time since 2007."We're happy to have O.J. What he's going to do to that team is going to be amazing," Winston told reporters Saturday. "This is the fastest, most athletic 6-6, 255 guy I've ever seen in my life. It's unreal."If early indications prove to be predictive, the Winston-Howard tandem could be a nightmare for years to come.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The opening of the NBA's free-agency period Saturday and the flurry of deals it spawned, including Stephen Curry's record-setting five-year, $201-million contract, had NFL fans and players questioning why NFL stars earn less than other sports' stars.Indeed, Curry's contract dwarfs that of the extension signed last week by fellow Bay Area resident Derek Carr, whose $125 million over five years is the largest contract in NFL history.Carr's deal, it turns out, more closely aligns to the contract just signed by the wholly unexceptional New Orleans Pelicans point guard Jrue Holiday.No joke, the highest-paid player in NFL history is making Jrue Holiday-level money - but with far less guaranteed cash:CarrHoliday5-year deal5-year deal$125M max. value$126M max. value$70M guaranteed$126M guaranteedCarr is the face of his franchise and one of the best young quarterbacks on the planet. Holiday is a perfectly acceptable player, but the former All-Star will probably never again rank among the top 10 at his position.It seems crazy for the pair to earn the same cash, but it's explained with a few simple points.There are way more NFL playersDriving NFL salaries down (and NBA salaries up) are the simple mechanics of roster-building in the respective leagues. NFL teams must pay a roster of 53 players, including 22 starters on offense and defense.NBA teams carry a maximum of 15 players on their rosters, several of whom rarely see the court.It's basic math. That's almost 1,700 NFL players compared to fewer than 500 NBA players on active rosters at any given time.The NFL players' union is weakerThe NFL is the richest sports league on the planet, with the best estimates putting league revenue at around $13 billion annually, the bulk of which comes from TV contracts. The NBA, by comparison, generates somewhere in the range of $6 billion annually.NBA players see a larger share of revenue, however, thanks to a more favorable collective bargaining agreement negotiated by the players' union.NFL teams must build a 53-man roster using $167 million in salary cap space. That's $3.1 million per player. NBA teams have $99 million to divvy up between 15 men; $6.6 million per player.Superstars matter more in the NBANFL commentators like to call football "the ultimate team sport" and they aren't wrong. Even a star quarterback plays only half of his team's total snaps. A star receiver rarely sees more than 10 passing targets in a game. Defense wins Super Bowls, or so the saying goes, and a defense is only as strong as its weakest link.Teamwork matters in the NBA, but a star player like LeBron James is a trump card the likes of which doesn't exist in football. James rarely comes off the court, is involved in every crucial sequence in every game, and is so vital to his team's success that he can elevate a mediocre surrounding cast to championship-caliber.Supply and demandThere are only so many men standing 6-foot-8 or taller on the planet who can make a free throw. Even fewer can make a three-pointer, or dunk, or both.Combine the importance of superstars in the NBA with the tiny pool of available stars and it's not hard to see why the salaries of those select few stars are driven up. It's basic economics.NFL salaries are flatterAt the top, the total cash (salaries and bonuses) taken home by the NFL and NBA's highest-paid players in 2016 was remarkably similar:NFLTotal cashNBATotal cashDrew Brees$31MLeBron James$31MAndrew Luck$30MChris Paul$27MOlivier Vernon$29MMike Conley$27MJoe Flacco$29MDeMar DeRozan$27MTom Brady$29MKevin Durant$27MA far more telling comparison between sports is revealed when one examines salaries much further down the list.Tied for 500th in total cash was Derek Carr's backup, Matt McGloin. He earned a little over $2.5 million in 2016. In the NBA, the 500th player was point guard Quinn Cook, coincidentally a backup to Jrue Holiday, who earned just under $112,000. That's a stark difference.Nearly 900 NFL players earned at least $1 million in 2016. Fewer than 400 NBA players did. The result is an NFL salary curve that is far less steep than that of the NBA.Upon seeing contracts like Curry's new deal, several NFL players joked on Twitter that they will push their sons to play basketball. While there are certainly several valid reasons for an athlete to favor the court over the gridiron (such as avoidance of head injuries), it's a myth than it's easier to get rich player basketball than football. It may be easier to get mega-rich playing basketball, but it's easier to become a millionaire playing football.(All salary data courtesy of Spotrac)Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Each week, theScore will go division by division, highlighting which three players' performances will most impact their team's season in 2017.Ezekiel 'Ziggy' AnsahWhich is the real Ziggy Ansah? The 2015 version who looked like the NFL's next great pass-rusher when he racked up 14.5 sacks, or the 2016 version who had just two sacks and was a complete liability against the run?The Lions need an answer, and they need it soon. Ansah is entering the last year of his rookie contract, and despite his inconsistent play, he'll surely be seeking a big-money deal after watching other edge defenders cash in.Detroit didn't make any significant signings on defense, so the team is presumably banking on Ansah bouncing back. The Lions' offense looks set to remain among the league's top units, but the defense lacks playmakers. Ansah returning to form could push the Lions into the contender category.Ameer AbdullahWith Matthew Stafford 2.0 excelling in offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter's system last season, the Lions' offense should only be better in 2017. The same can't be said of the ground game, however.A foot injury ended Abdullah's second season after just two games, and no other back on the Lions was capable of carrying the load. Detroit sputtered for the rest of the campaign, ending the year as the 30th-ranked rush offense.But Abdullah looks healthy and should be set to regain his starting role. If he can deliver on his potential and help balance the Lions' offense, it will go a long way to helping the team challenge for the NFC North crown.T.J. LangThe Lions' offensive line was average in 2016, but that was an improvement compared to its plays over the past few seasons.The line was helped by Cooter's system, which emphasizes the quick pass, and looked set to improve with the offseason additions of Lang and Rick Wagner. However, the loss of left tackle Taylor Decker, who was surprisingly solid in his rookie season, has the potential to severely disrupt the unit.This is where Lang's experience should be vital. The longtime Packer is one of the league's top guards and will need to continue to play at an elite level to keep the line from crumbling.(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)Also from this series

As former Baltimore Ravens linebacker Zach Orr visits teams in an attempt to restart the career that was brought to an abrupt end less than six months ago, questions remain about what changed in his life to spark his comeback.What we know is that Orr was diagnosed with a congenital spine deformity and retired in late January at age 24 after leading the Ravens in tackles in 2016. It was a shocking retirement at the time, but one that made sense considering how Orr's health.At the time, Orr said he had received the advice of multiple doctors and was informed that he risked a serious and potentially life-altering or fatal injury if he continued to play.Now, he's changing his story a little."It was probably a premature decision for me to retire so early just because I listened to one doctor," Orr told hosts Alex Marvez and Mark Dominik this week on SiriusXM NFL Radio. "After people found out I only went to one doctor, they were telling me, 'You've got to go get a second opinion. It was kind of eating at me. Obviously, I wanted to play ball. I love ball. I went ahead and did that."Every opinion after that I found out that I'm not as at great a risk. Really, there was only one doctor that looked me in the eye and told me I was at greater risk. The rest of the doctors told me I wasn't."Orr's unique path away from football and then back to it could drastically alter the fortunes of two franchises. The Ravens had no reason to believe Orr would attempt a comeback, so they didn't tender an offer to Orr as a restricted free agent. That means he's now an unrestricted free agent, and every team has the chance to sign a 25-year-old player on the rise.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The ridiculous money handed out so far in NBA free agency, including Steph Curry's reported five-year, $201-million contract, has caught more than just the attention of basketball fans.Curry's deal dwarfs the record five-year, $125-million contract his Bay Area peer, Derek Carr, signed last week - something that seemed to lead some NFL players to regret the career path they chose:

Each week, theScore will go division by division, highlighting which three players' performances will most impact their team's season in 2017.Mike GlennonFor the time being, the Bears are Glennon's team.After a disastrous 2016 season in which Chicago won just three games, the team signed Tampa Bay's former backup to a three-year deal that includes a potential out after the first campaign.The Bears are still in the process of rebuilding from the ground up, so Glennon isn't necessarily surrounded with talent. To secure a future gig, he'll have to impress in limited time as Chicago's starter. The future of the franchise belongs to Mitch Trubisky, but for now it's in Glennon's hands.Jordan HowardUntil Trubisky takes the field, the Bears' headliner is a formerly unheralded fifth-round pick who finished second league-wide in rushing last year.Howard filled in nicely as Chicago's lead back after the team moved on from Matt Forte, but many doubt he can replicate his rookie season. It'll take another strong campaign in 2017 for Howard to prove he belongs among the NFL's best runners.If the Bears improve upon their three-win showing, Howard will likely have a lot to do with it.Leonard FloydAnother super rookie who's looking to solidify his place in the league is Floyd. He notched seven sacks last year, and could someday etch his name among the long list of linebacking greats who've plied their trade at Soldier Field.Floyd will also be looking to make a similar leap to that of Vic Beasley, who led the league in sacks in his second season. Beasley credited veteran Dwight Freeney with unleashing his capabilities, and Floyd will be working alongside Pernell McPhee and Lamarr Houston to attempt the same.As a former top-10 draft pick, Floyd is the star the Bears will look to build their defense around. But he first needs to prove he's worthy of that status.(Photo courtesy: Getty Images)Also from this series

NFL players are fans of other sports, just like you.As news broke of a massive NBA trade Friday night - that sent Paul George from the Indiana Pacers to the Oklahoma City Thunder to join reigning league MVP Russell Westbrook - a number of football players took to social media to share their reactions.Here's a collection of some of the best:

It could be nothing. On the other hand, it could be exactly what Minnesota Vikings fans have been waiting to hear for nearly a year.Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater posted a stream of tweets Friday night that seem to suggest he's turned a corner in his recovery from the devastating left knee injury he suffered last August.The injury cost Bridgewater the entire 2016 season and prompted Minnesota to trade for a new starting quarterback, Sam Bradford.

Le'Veon Bell and the Pittsburgh Steelers are facing a July 17 deadline to reach a long-term extension, but the superstar running back isn't altogether concerned with the impending cutoff point.The Steelers placed the franchise tag on Bell, who did not sign the tender. If Bell and the Steelers can't come to an agreement before July 17, the two-time Pro Bowler will play on a one-year deal worth $12.1 million.Bell appears content with whichever outcome arises."I'm good with everything, just taking it day to day for real," Bell said to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.Fowler notes that Bell is the lone player who hasn't signed their tender or reached a long-term contract.In any event, Bell will be one of the focal points of the Steelers' formidable offense as they seek to dethrone the New England Patriots.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Perhaps the Chicago Bears drafted Mitch Trubisky for his confidence.The second overall pick in this year's draft has high expectations for his team, despite the fact Chicago finished 3-13 a season ago.Speaking to the media on Friday, Trubisky revealed his response to a fan who asked how the Bears would fare in 2017."I said, 'Yeah, I think we're gonna make the playoffs,'" Trubisky said, according to Patrick Finley of the Chicago Sun-Times.Trubisky was likely placating a young Bears supporter with his reply, and he was sure to inform the media he's not in the business of making guarantees."Obviously we know we have a lot of work to do. I don't want anyone to construe it in a way that it's a guarantee or anything," he said. "But I believe in myself, I believe in my teammates. I know we still have work to do. That's what it is - I think."As a competitor, you should always go there and think we're gonna win."Trubisky may not even be the quarterback that determines whether the Bears make the postseason, as he conceded that teammate Mike Glennon will be the one under center."Mike's the starter and I'm behind him all the way," the rookie said on SiriusXM NFL Radio on Friday, according to Marc Sessler of NFL.com.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Baltimore Ravens tight end Darren Waller has been suspended by the NFL for a minimum of one year for violating the league's substance-abuse policy.He also netted a four-game suspension to begin the 2016 season for a violation of the same policy.Waller, a 2015 sixth-round pick, has just 12 catches across two seasons in the NFL. He may have been in for a bigger role this year, however, after Dennis Pitta suffered his third hip injury in early June and was subsequently released.The Ravens' depth chart at the position includes Benjamin Watson, Crockett Gillmore, Maxx Williams, Nick Boyle, and Ryan Malleck.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Football has been a frequent subject of, and backdrop for, Hollywood movies over the years - some of them misses, but many of them hits.Here are our favorites:20. The Waterboy (1998)It's a goofy Adam Sandler movie, but at least it's from an era when Adam Sandler movies produced a few laughs.19. Little Giants (1994)It's a kids' movie, but it's a decent one. Rick Moranis and Ed O'Neill star as brothers and coaches of rival pee-wee football teams.18. Big Fan (2009)This little-seen independent movie stars comedian Patton Oswalt as a New York Giants obsessive struggling with his fandom after a player on the team assaults him in a bar.17. Knute Rockne, All American (1940)Starring Ronald Reagan, this film tells the story of Notre Dame football coach Knute Rockne. The famous saying "Win one for the Gipper" comes from this movie.16. The Replacements (2000)This cookie-cutter comedy about a team of has-beens filling in during a player's strike is mildly amusing.15. Draft Day (2014)This Kevin Costner film isn't nearly as bad as it's made out to be, but it's still not very good. Recent real-life moves, like the Chicago Bears trading up one spot to draft Mitchell Trubisky, make the ridiculous series of deals pulled off by Costner's GM character seem a little less unrealistic.14. The Express (2008)Based on the life of Syracuse halfback Ernie Davis, the first African-American to win the Heisman, this well-done film ended up a financial flop.13. We Are Marshall (2006)This historical drama is based on the 1970 plane crash that killed 37 players on Marshall University's football team. It is unevenly directed, but Matthew McConaughey's performance in the lead role is impressive.12. Invincible (2006)Mark Wahlberg stars in this true story of a bartender who tried out for and made the Philadelphia Eagles at age 30. It's your typical underdog story; it hits the right notes, even if they are predictable.11. Varsity Blues (1999)At the peak of his "Dawson's Creek" fame, James Van Der Beek stars as the quarterback of a high school football team dealing with an overbearing head coach and the pressures of growing up.10. Any Given Sunday (1999)A dramatic and highly stylized look at professional football from director Oliver Stone. Al Pacino makes a believable head coach and Jamie Foxx's third-string quarterback, "Steamin" Willie Beamen, is memorable.9. The Longest Yard (1974)This isn't the 2005 Adam Sandler remake, but the original starring Burt Reynolds as an incarcerated former pro who leads a team of convicts against the prison guards. Interestingly, this movie was also remade in Britain and Egypt, with the sport changed to soccer both times.8. North Dallas Forty (1979)If you think football players party hard now, check out this semi-satirical look at the debauchery of a late-1960s team modeled after the Dallas Cowboys. Though not based on actual facts, this movie is often cited as one of the more realistic football films.7. Remember the Titans (2000)The best film in a two-year run of sports movies at the turn of the century that included "Varsity Blues," "Any Given Sunday," and "The Replacements," "Remember the Titans" stars Denzel Washington as the head coach of a newly integrated high school football team.6. The Blind Side (2009)This true story of NFL offensive tackle Michael Oher was nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards and earned Sandra Bullock her first nomination and win for Best Actress.5. Rudy (1993)You probably expected this move to land higher on this list, but "Rudy" is a tad overrated. It's saccharine and Sean Astin's titular character is a bit of a whiner. Still, it includes some truly classic scenes and we can't bring ourselves to rank it any lower.4. Jerry Maguire (1996)You've memorized all its famous lines, but do you remember that it's also a pretty good movie that earned Oscar nominations for Best Picture, Best Actor, and Best Supporting Actor (which Cuba Gooding Jr. won, allowing him to deliver one of the most memorable acceptance speeches of all time)?3. Brian's Song (1971)The only TV movie on this list, it's an emotional story about Gale Sayers and his friendship with Chicago Bears teammate Brian Piccolo, who was stricken with terminal cancer. Along with "Rudy," "Brian's Song" is frequently cited as one of the movies most likely to make grown men cry.2. Friday Night Lights (2004)Later adapted into a critically acclaimed TV show, this movie tells the story of an Odessa, Texas high school football team, the community that adores it, and the socioeconomic and racial struggles surrounding it.1. Undefeated (2011)Winner of an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, this film tracks an inner-city high school football team in Memphis aiming for its first winning season after more than a decade of losses despite several key players dealing with major life struggles. If you watch one football movie, make it this one.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Punters are people too, and Brad Wing of the New York Giants could receive some unexpected national attention.Wing received a shout-out on Nicki Minaj's new song with Calvin Harris, titled "Skrt on Me.""And I'm playing the field, Brad Wing in the punt," Minaj raps.Wing first drew Minaj's attention on June 18, posting his version of the #NickiMinajChallenge on Instagram.

The NFLPA on Friday issued a warning to its players pertaining to a potential financial scam, Alex Marvez of Sporting News reports.Upon receiving prompts from players asking for further investigation, the NFLPA alerted its members regarding three tax advisory forms controlled or operated by John Richard Burgess, a Chicago resident.The NFLPA revealed that an unnamed player was appraised a $500,000 fee from one of Burgess' three entities, Marvez reports.The NFLPA also listed a number of fraud charges against Burgess that extend back to 1988. However, the NFLPA didn't claim that Burgess was engaging in any illegal activity in the alert sent to its players.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski and apparel giant Nike are engaged in a dispute over the former's personal logo.Gronkowski's company, Gronk Nation LLC, developed a logo depicting the tight end spiking a football into the ground, pantomiming one of his most famous celebrations. Gronk Nation filed a trademark in April 2016 for the logo.Nike is claiming that Gronkowski's logo is far too similar to the Jordan brand Jumpman logo, filing its opposition to the USPTO Trial & Appeal Board.