All appears well between the Buffalo Bills and star wide receiver Stefon Diggs again following a tense offseason.Speaking to the media for the first time this offseason Wednesday, Diggs said issues stemmed from frustration over previous playoff defeats."Regarding last year, the way we lost was terrible. ... We've lost for a couple years at this point. We've been trying to get over the hump, and obviously, it calls for a lot of frustration," Diggs explained, according to ESPN's Alaina Getzenberg. "Me and (coach Sean McDermott) did have a conversation. It's all water under the bridge now."I attribute it to family matters. ... We had a conversation, all is well, (it's) water under the bridge now. We back at work."Diggs missed the team's first mandatory minicamp workout in June. McDermott said he was "very concerned" with the receiver, though he later admitted that he and Diggs needed a break after having a conversation. The star receiver arrived for the second day of minicamp."My main focus and my only focus is winning. Everybody says they want a Super Bowl, but we've had legitimate chances at this thing," Diggs said. "We've had the team, we've had the coaches, we've had everything that we needed, and as far as us not getting over the hump, I feel like it always calls for a conversation."McDermott said earlier Wednesday that the team was in a "good spot" with the three-time Pro Bowl receiver.Diggs was last seen having an outburst on the sideline during Buffalo's divisional-round loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. He denied having a problem with Josh Allen, according to Ryan O'Halloran of The Buffalo News.The 29-year-old also shrugged off rumors that his issues stemmed from his role or voice in play-calling."It's insane to me," he said, per News 4 Buffalo's Heather Prusak. "I couldn't call a play to save my life."The Bills have featured one of the most dynamic offenses with the combination of Allen and Diggs, winning three AFC East titles and posting a combined 37-12 record over the last three seasons. However, they've failed to reach a Super Bowl during that span.The veteran receiver, who's under contract through the 2027 season, said he "100%" wants to retire as a member of the Bills.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

New York Giants general manager Joe Schoen is glad to have Saquon Barkley back in the fold following an offseason full of negotiations.Schoen said he was "ecstatic" and "fired up" to have Barkley in training camp, according to team reporter Dan Salomone. The star running back was at risk of holding out. But, just before camp opened, he agreed to an amended franchise tag deal reportedly worth up to $11 million over one year.The conversations between Barkley and the Giants hit a crossroads after they were unable to reach a long-term agreement prior to the deadline for tagged players to sign extensions. However, Schoen has come to peace with the situation."We came to a landing spot, they came to a landing spot and we weren't able to bridge the gap," Schoen said to reporters, including Ralph Vacchiano of Fox Sports. "And that's OK."Schoen added that the team never discussed trading the two-time Pro Bowler in the offseason. It was reported earlier this week that, this summer, the Miami Dolphins and another team made trade offers for Barkley that made the Giants balk."We never had a conversation about trading Saquon Barkley," Schoen said, per ESPN's Jordan Raanan.Barkley posted a career-high 1,312 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns last season and helped New York reach the postseason for the first time since 2016."We're a better football team with Saquon here," Schoen said.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Chicago Bears agreed to a four-year extension worth $50 million with tight end Cole Kmet, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter and Field Yates.Kmet's deal includes $32.8 million guaranteed, Schefter and Yates add.The deal is the first extension general manager Ryan Poles has handed out since joining the Bears' front office in 2022, per ESPN's Courtney Cronin.Kmet, a second-round pick in the 2020 draft, has started every game over the past two seasons. He recorded a career-high seven touchdowns in 2022.His 544 receiving yards led the Bears last year as the team struggled to generate a passing attack.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The New York Giants and left tackle Andrew Thomas agreed to a five-year, $117.5-million extension that includes $67 million fully guaranteed, a record for an offensive lineman, his representation told ESPN's Adam Schefter.Thomas' new deal leaves him under contract through the 2029 season, Schefter adds.The contract's average annual value of $23.5 million is the second-highest among offensive linemen in NFL history, according to Spotrac.The 24-year-old is coming off a breakout campaign where he was named to the Second-Team All-Pro squad. He started 16 games in 2022 and was rated third-highest on PFF's list of offensive tackles.The fourth overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, Thomas has developed into a trusted blindside protector for quarterback Daniel Jones over the course of 44 career starts.Thomas is the latest member of the Giants to be rewarded with an extension this offseason, joining Jones and defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence. Jones inked a four-year, $160-million deal while Lawrence signed a four-year, $90-million pact. The club also franchise-tagged running back Saquon Barkley before agreeing to an amended franchise tag deal worth up to $11 million over one year.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Miami Dolphins were among two teams that made trade offers for New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley this offseason, sources told Ryan Dunleavy of the New York Post.New York turned down both offers, as the team was never interested in trading Barkley this year despite rumors, according to Dunleavy. It's unclear which other team reportedly also tried to acquire the star tailback.Barkley was considered a potential trade candidate amid his stalled contract negotiations with the Giants, who placed the franchise tag on him earlier in the offseason. The two sides then failed to agree to terms on a multi-year deal before the July 17 deadline. Barkley wasn't expected to report to training camp but surprisingly signed a new one-year contract reportedly worth up to $11 million on Tuesday.Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk reported on Tuesday that the Giants called "a dozen teams" trying to find a potential trade partner at the request of Barkley's representation. Barkley reacted to the report on social media, seemingly denying it.

The Los Angeles Chargers agreed to terms with star quarterback Justin Herbert on a multi-year contract extension, the team announced Tuesday,Los Angeles didn't reveal the terms of the deal, but sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter that it's a record five-year, $262.5-million pact. The agreement could reportedly include up to $218.7 million in guarantees and contains a no-trade clause, Schefter adds.Herbert will earn $100 million in Year 1, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. The deal - which will reportedly sign Herbert through the 2029 season - includes an average annual salary of $52.5 million, the highest in NFL history.The 25-year-old is the fourth quarterback ever to top $50 million per year, along with Lamar Jackson ($52 million), Jalen Hurts ($51 million), and Aaron Rodgers ($50.27 million), according to Spotrac. Jackson and Hurts also signed their respective megadeals this year.Herbert has put on a show since being drafted sixth overall in 2020. The Oregon product has passed for 14,089 yards - the most through a quarterback's first three seasons - and 94 touchdowns in 49 career starts. He's 25-24 as the top passer.Herbert, who also has a Pro Bowl berth and an Offensive Rookie of the Year award on his NFL resume, posted a career-high 68.2% completion rate in 2022 while tossing 4,739 yards and 25 touchdowns against 10 interceptions.The Chargers reached the playoffs for the first time with Herbert last season but infamously imploded in the wild-card game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Los Angeles suffered the third-largest comeback in NFL postseason history, losing to Jacksonville 31-30 despite leading 27-0 late in the first half.Los Angeles is aggressively building around Herbert and made big moves in the last two seasons. The team hired offensive coordinator Kellen Moore and used a 2023 first-round pick on wide receiver Quentin Johnston.Herbert is considered one of football's best young passers. That list also includes Joe Burrow, who's been negotiating a new deal with the Cincinnati Bengals. That extension will presumably also reset the hot QB market.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera said he's thrilled by the team's ownership change at training camp."You can already feel the impact," Rivera said Tuesday, according to Scott Abraham of 7News DC. "A lot has to do with the reaction from the fan base, more so than anything else. Our guys have also felt it. They've felt it because of the fan base. It's neat. You look outside and see the setup for fans, and the guys are really getting into this. It's a unique feeling. It's exciting. I'm fired up about the opportunity as we go forward."NFL owners unanimously approved Josh Harris and his ownership group's purchase of the Commanders from Dan Snyder last week, ending Snyder's scandal-filled tenure with the franchise. His 24 seasons in charge were tainted by alleged workplace misconduct, sexual harassment, and financial impropriety, leading to investigations by the NFL and Congress.The Commanders reportedly sold for a record $6.05 billion."A lot of it has to do with just the feeling that so many people are behind us," Rivera said about the excitement that's been generated by the sale of the Commanders. "It was different when you're having to deal with stuff outside football. Now it's about football. We're gonna focus on what's important for us, and that's playing the games."Washington - which went 8-8-1 in 2022 - hasn't had a winning season since 2015. The Commanders head into the 2023 campaign with a new-look offense after hiring coordinator Eric Bieniemy and naming 2022 fifth-round pick Sam Howell their new starting quarterback.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Dallas Cowboys signed star cornerback Trevon Diggs to a contract extension, the team announced Tuesday.Dallas didn't reveal the terms of the agreement. But a source told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network the two sides inked a five-year, $97-million extension. The rising defensive back can reportedly earn up to $104 million with the deal's incentives.The contract has $42.3 million in guaranteed money, reports ESPN's Todd Archer. It also includes a $21.25 million signing bonus, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.A second-round pick in 2020, Diggs was entering the last year of his rookie deal in 2023. His $19.4-million average annual salary now ranks fifth among cornerbacks, according to Spotrac. Green Bay Packers star Jaire Alexander tops the position's list, earning $21 million per year.Diggs established himself as one of football's most dangerous cornerbacks. The Alabama product caught a league-high 11 interceptions in 2021, including two pick-6s. He's racked up 17 career interceptions and 49 pass breakups in 45 appearances.The 24-year-old registered 59 tackles, 14 pass breakups, and three picks in 2022 en route to earning the second Pro Bowl berth of his career. He also allowed a 64.7% completion rate and a passer rating of 86.1 in 85 targets while in coverage.Along with All-Pro defender Micah Parsons, Diggs is one of the biggest stars on a Cowboys defense that ranked in the top 10 in points allowed in each of the last two campaigns. Dallas traded for veteran Stephon Gilmore this offseason, adding a new corner to start opposing Diggs.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and head coach Mike McCarthy like where the team stands ahead of the 2023 season.McCarthy said the Cowboys' roster is "definitely the best of the four years" he's been in charge, according to Jon Machota of The Athletic."I feel really good about where we are. ... We love what we accomplished in player acquisition throughout the spring," McCarthy added, per Jett Beachum of CBS News Texas. "More importantly, now that these guys have been here, the way they fit in. I can't say enough about (wide receiver) Brandin (Cooks) and (cornerback Stephon) Gilmore."The Cowboys posted a 12-5 record in 2022, their second consecutive 12-win season. However, the team fell short against the San Francisco 49ers in the divisional-round game, failing to reach the NFC title game for the 27th consecutive campaign."It's about winning a championship. I don't shy away from that at all," McCarthy said. "Everybody today should feel that they can win the championship. They may not talk about it, but we feel very strongly about who we are as a team, and we look forward to all the challenges and the adversity that's gonna come."Dallas made aggressive moves this past offseason, trading for Cooks and Gilmore. It also parted ways with offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, who was also the club's play-caller."If we can have the kind of camp we want to have, we've got a team that can compete for the top spot. ... I think we've got a chance to be a contender," Jones said.The Cowboys are 30-20 in three seasons under McCarthy, who's now set to call plays for the first time since joining the NFC East club.Dallas has ranked in the top 10 in scoring offense and defense in each of the last two seasons.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The stalemate between Saquon Barkley and the New York Giants ended Tuesday as the franchise-tagged running back signed a one-year deal to remain a Giant.Barkley's contract includes $909,000 worth of incentives that give him a chance to top the $10.1 million he would've earned playing under the franchise tag.

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy is medically cleared to participate in training camp, general manager John Lynch announced Tuesday, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero."The great news is Brock has worked his tail off and he's ready to go," Lynch told reporters.Purdy, who underwent offseason elbow surgery after suffering a complete tear of the UCL in his throwing arm during last season's NFC Championship Game, will be on a pitch count. The second-year pro will throw two out of every three days but will receive first-team reps when on the field, according to head coach Kyle Shanahan.Purdy's injury left the 49ers with a lot of uncertainty at quarterback entering the offseason. The club brought in Sam Darnold while Trey Lance was returning to the field after missing all but two games in 2022 due to injury.However, the 49ers are adamant that Purdy is in the driver's seat to start if healthy. Purdy first resumed throwing in May, which led to Lynch being "incredibly encouraged" by the quarterback's progress.A seventh-round pick in 2022, Purdy led the 49ers on a run to the NFC title game following injuries to Lance and backup Jimmy Garoppolo. He won his first seven starts while throwing for 16 touchdowns to four interceptions (including playoffs).Additionally, Lynch noted that he doesn't expect reigning Defensive Player of the Year Nick Bosa to be with the team at training camp due to negotiations over an extension, according to David Lombardi of The Athletic.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Some of the NFL's greatest wide receivers helped DeAndre Hopkins throughout his career, and now the Tennessee Titans wideout wants to do the same with his new teammates."I approach it as a challenge to help those guys get to where they want to be," the 31-year-old said Tuesday, according to reporter Paul Kuharsky.He added, "I had someone like Andre Johnson and Larry Fitzgerald show me the way. ... Obviously, it's about the team. Whatever I can do to help (my teammates) on and off the field, that's what I'll do."Hopkins entered the NFL as a first-round pick in 2013 on the Texans and played his first two seasons with Johnson - Houston's all-time leader in receptions (1,012), receiving yards (13,597), and touchdown catches (64).Houston traded Hopkins to the Arizona Cardinals in 2020, and he joined a wide receiver depth chart headlined by Fitzgerald, who ranks second in NFL history with 1,432 catches and 17,492 receiving yards. Fitzgerald's 121 career TD receptions are the sixth-most ever.The Titans' wide receiver depth chart features several unproven pass-catchers, including 2022 first-round pick Treylon Burks and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine. Hopkins, a five-time Pro Bowler, has caught 853 passes for 11,298 yards and 71 touchdowns throughout his career. He signed with Tennessee on July 16."(Hopkins is) a proven player that's had production year after year," Titans coach Mike Vrabel said Tuesday, according to ESPN's Turron Davenport. "A veteran presence that's seen a lot of defenses, he's got the experience on offense."Hopkins, who generated interest from multiple teams and also visited the New England Patriots after being released by the Cardinals, said running back Derrick Henry was a big part of his decision to join the Titans."I always wanted to be part of an offense that had a great run game," Hopkins added.The Titans started last season 7-3 but missed the playoffs after losing their final seven games. Veteran quarterback Ryan Tannehill finished the campaign on the sideline due to injury, and Tennessee started Joshua Dobbs in its must-win Week 18 contest versus the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Jaguars edged the Titans 20-16 to win the AFC South."When Josh came in and those guys were very close to still winning, they were right there. It kind of opened my eyes up to see that they're only a couple of pieces away from where they want to be," Hopkins said, per team reporter Jim Wyatt.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Netflix reached out to Justin Fields about appearing in the second season of "Quarterback," but the Chicago Bears passer isn't interested in being part of the docuseries at the moment."Maybe down the road, but I don't see myself doing it this year," Fields said Tuesday, according to Kevin Fishbain of The Athletic."Quarterback" is one of Netflix's most popular shows right now. The first season aired on July 12 and follows the 2022 campaigns of Kansas City Chiefs' Patrick Mahomes, Minnesota Vikings' Kirk Cousins, and Marcus Mariota's efforts with the Atlanta Falcons. He signed with the Philadelphia Eagles this offseason.Matthew Stafford's wife, Kelly, recently said that the Los Angeles Rams quarterback also declined to be in the docuseries' first season, according to Cameron DaSilva of The Rams Wire.The Bears have high expectations for Fields heading into the 2023 campaign. The team originally owned the first overall pick this offseason but traded the selection to the Carolina Panthers, opting to build around Fields instead. Chicago landed wide receiver D.J. Moore in the deal. The NFC North club also signed top free-agent linebackers Tremaine Edmunds and T.J. Edwards and selected first-round offensive tackle Darnell Wright.A first-rounder in 2021, Fields was quiet during his rookie year but broke out as a rusher in 2022, finishing the campaign with 1,143 yards (7.1 per carry) and eight touchdowns on the ground. He also set the NFL single-game QB record in the regular season with 178 rushing yards in Week 9.The 24-year-old recently included himself in the top five running quarterbacks in league history.Fields' throwing game suffered last season. He completed 60.4% of his passes for 2,242 yards and 17 touchdowns against 11 interceptions in 15 games. However, the Ohio State product is confident he can take his passing game to a different level in 2023 - he recently predicted he'll become the first Bears player to throw for 4,000 yards in a campaign.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Kadarius Toney underwent knee surgery after suffering an injury during training camp, head coach Andy Reid announced Tuesday, according to ESPN's Adam Teicher.Reid added that "there's a chance" Toney could be back for Week 1.Toney had a knee procedure in the offseason and reportedly aggravated the injury while fielding a punt during Sunday's practice, prompting him to leave early. Reid later said that the wideout tweaked his knee.Toney began his NFL career with the New York Giants and spent just over a campaign in the Big Apple before the Giants traded him to the Chiefs midway through the 2022 campaign. The former first-round pick recorded 230 scrimmage yards and three touchdowns in seven regular-season appearances with Kansas City last year. He then scored a touchdown in Super Bowl LVII, helping K.C. edge the Philadelphia Eagles.Toney is part of a crowded wide receiver depth chart in Kansas City. The Chiefs also roster Skyy Moore, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, and second-round rookie Rashee Rice, among others.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Franchise-tagged running back Saquon Barkley will report to New York Giants training camp after all.Barkley signed his franchise tag, the team announced Tuesday. It didn't provide specifics on the restructured deal.The running back's new one-year agreement is worth up to $11 million, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. The deal will give Barkley the chance to top the fully guaranteed $10.1 million he earns on the franchise tag through $909,000 in incentives. It also includes a $2-million signing bonus.

Five-time Pro Bowl tight end Jimmy Graham is returning to where it all started.Graham signed a one-year contract with the New Orleans Saints, the team announced Tuesday. The 36-year-old tight end, who hasn't played since 2021, spent the first five seasons of his career with the Saints.

Detroit Lions defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson is considered day-to-day after suffering a knee injury at practice Monday, head coach Dan Campbell said Tuesday."It appears to be that he's going to be OK. It doesn't appear to be anything serious," Campbell told reporters, including Dave Birkett of The Detroit Free Press. "So we'll see, the images look pretty good. He may be out a day or two but seems to be OK."Gardner-Johnson - one of Detroit's biggest signings this year - had to be carted off the field and was visibly upset after sustaining the non-contact ailment in his right leg, according to team reporter Tim Twentyman. However, an MRI reportedly revealed no structural damage to his knee.The 25-year-old was a top defensive free agent this offseason after helping the Philadelphia Eagles reach the Super Bowl last season. The 2019 fourth-round pick, who led the NFL with six interceptions in 2022, joined Detroit on a one-year, $6.5-million contract in March.Bolstering the defense was a priority for Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, who previously worked with Gardner-Johnson on the New Orleans Saints. In addition to Gardner-Johnson, Detroit signed cornerbacks Cameron Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley. The team also drafted linebacker Jack Campbell in the first round and safety Brian Branch in the second round.Gardner-Johnson spent his first three NFL seasons with the Saints, who traded him to the Eagles in August 2022.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Seattle Seahawks and edge rusher Uchenna Nwosu agreed to a three-year extension worth a maximum of $59 million, his agents told ESPN's Adam Schefter.The deal carries a base value of $45 million, reports NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. It includes $32 million guaranteed.Nwosu is entering his second campaign in Seattle after joining on a two-year, $20-million deal as a free agent in 2022. He collected a career-high 9.5 sacks last season, sharing the team lead with Darrell Taylor.The 26-year-old Nwosu enjoyed a breakthrough with the Seahawks after playing four seasons for the Los Angeles Chargers. He never had more than five sacks in a season for the Bolts, though he played a backup role for most of his time there.The Seahawks ranked eighth in the NFL in sacks last season. Both starting edge rushers - Nwosu and Taylor - were heading into contract years before the team agreed to extend Nwosu. Taylor, a 2020 second-round pick, is another preseason extension candidate.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Las Vegas Raiders announced Monday that they signed former All-Pro corner Marcus Peters.Peters agreed to a one-year contract worth $3 million plus another $2 million in incentives, a source told Pro Football Network's Adam Caplan.He recorded one interception, six passes defended, and two forced fumbles in 13 games with the Baltimore Ravens last season. Pro Football Focus graded him at 67.7.Peters was named a first-team All-Pro in 2016 while with the Kansas City Chiefs and again in 2019 after splitting the campaign between the Los Angeles Rams and Ravens. Peters burst onto the scene with the Chiefs in 2015, winning Defensive Rookie of the Year and earning a second-team All-Pro nod while leading the league with eight interceptions.The 30-year-old isn't the player he once was, but he'll add experience and pedigree to a secondary that was set to start Duke Shelley and David Long at boundary corner and Nate Hobbs at nickel. Peters, who stands at 6-feet and 197 pounds, will likely start in one of the boundary spots.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Get ready for your season with theScore's 2023 Fantasy Football Draft Kit and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.Welcome to theScore Fantasy Football Podcast, hosted by Justin Boone.Find the show on Spotify, Apple, Google, and Stitcher.In this episode, Boone goes over the latest news and the biggest training camp storylines to monitor.

After years of being point-spread-covering machines and going 10-7 ATS in Mac Jones' first year, the Patriots lost money for their weekly bettors by going 7-9-1 ATS last season. With a 6-4 record through 10 games, New England had eyes on the playoffs again but limped to the finish and only covered once in the final seven contests. The days of blindly trusting Bill Belichick to cash tickets appear to be over.The Patriots aren't a particularly interesting team this upcoming season. They're the fourth choice in the AFC East and haven't made any particularly splashy moves. However, that could change if New England signs Dalvin Cook. The Pats also squelched any wonder about whether they'd give up on Jones when they didn't pick a signal-caller in the draft.The betting market seems to think that flirtation with a .500 season should be considered a success, which is a drop in expectation from last offseason.2023 season oddsMARKETODDS(O/U)Win total7.5 (+100/-120)Division+850Conference+4000Super Bowl+6000Estimated rating48/100The Patriots were -125 to go over 7.5 wins in May. Now, they're favored to go under that total. That said, compared to the rest of the league, a team worthy of 7.5 wins coming out of the AFC East is worth a bump to 48 out of 100 - nearly a league-average rating.Schedule outlookWEEKOPPONENTLOOKAHEAD LINE1PHIPHI -4.52MIAMIA -2.53@NYJNYJ -4.54@DALDAL -4.55NONE -2.56@LVLV -17BUFBUF -3.58@MIAMIA -49WSHNE -3.510INDNE -412@NYGNYG -1.513LACLAC -1.514@PITPIT -215KCKC -416@DENDEN -217@BUFBUF -6.518NYJNYJ -1You can usually get pretty close to a team's projected regular-season win total by adding up how many games it's favored in via look-ahead point-spread markets. But New England is currently favored in just three contests - a good reason for interest in taking the under on its win total. The rationale behind the Patriots being underdogs so much is that they have a brutal home schedule that includes the Eagles, Chargers, and Chiefs. Plus, all three of their division rivals are rated significantly higher in the market.What's to like about the PatriotsHiring an actual offensive coordinator for your young quarterback is probably a good idea. For reasons that still haven't been fully explained, New England used Matt Patricia and Joe Judge - neither with an extensive background on offense - to be the primary stewards for Jones in his second year.The Patriots welcomed back Bill O'Brien in January to be the offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach after he spent two years at Alabama. While his time with the Crimson Tide didn't overlap with Jones' tenure, one would assume they both speak the same language in play-calling.Faith in Belichick to cover spreads at a high rate has waned, but the Patriots' defense and special teams should continue to give them an edge in the elements of the game that are either not seen in the box score or hard to predict. New England has been in the top five in non-offensive touchdowns in three of the last four seasons, leading the league last year. For example, Marcus Jones scored a punt return touchdown in the final seconds to beat the Jets in 2022. You often don't know how it'll happen, but it often does with the Patriots.What's not to like about the PatriotsWe can blame the coaching situation to a certain degree, but Jones' 14 touchdowns and 11 interceptions are otherwise inexcusable for a hopeful franchise quarterback with a full year under his belt. The talent surrounding Jones leaves something to be desired. We've rated both their offensive line and receiving corps as below average.Other notable betting marketsPLAYERMARKETODDSMac JonesMVP+6500Most passing yards+8000Most passing TD+6500Rhamondre StevensonOffensive POTY+15000Most rushing yards+1500Most rushing TD+3000Most receptions+6000Juju Smith-SchusterMost receptions+8000Most receiving yards+10000Most receiving TD+7500Matthew JudonDefensive POTY+5000Most sacks+1800Christian GonzalezDefensive ROTY+950Keion WhiteDefensive ROTY+4500Bill BelichickCoach of the Year+2500If Jones suddenly got in the race to lead the league in passing yards or touchdowns, it would be an even bigger surprise than these odds suggest. And the oddsmakers' expectation of this Patriots offense is that there's a better chance the running back leads the league in receptions than any of the wide receivers.New England has an obvious Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate in cornerback Christian Gonzalez. The Oregon product will try to capitalize on Belichick's pressure schemes to step in front of a few more passes than Sauce Gardner did in winning the award last year. More under the radar is the Pats' second draft choice, defensive lineman Keion White.Belichick should be in the mix for his first Coach of the Year since 2010 if he can get this group into the playoffs ahead of some stiff AFC competition. I just wouldn't bet on it.Matt Russell is the lead betting analyst for theScore. If there's a bad beat to be had, Matt will find it. Find him on Twitter @mrussauthentic.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Jets set an offseason record by creating the most buzz for the acquisition of a signal-caller with a quarterback rating lower than his current age.Aaron Rodgers brings a new haircut, a refreshed zest for public appearances, and his 39.3 QBR to New York. Meanwhile, we're tasked with trying to figure out what that means for a team that claims to have a complete roster.We could remind you of the Jets' 8-9 record against the spread, but given that most betting is done by focusing on the QB, isn't it more important to look at Rodgers' ATS record? Well, he too was 8-9 against the number last year.By the end of last season, the Jets were a better team with Zach Wilson on the bench but still weren't close to an average team (their rating never went higher than 40). Meanwhile, the Packers were very much an average squad, but that hasn't stopped the betting market from being optimistic about the Jets' chances.2023 season oddsMARKETODDS(O/U)Win total9.5 (-125/+105)Division+250Conference+1000Super Bowl+1600Estimated rating60/100The Jets are the seventh choice for the Super Bowl. Interestingly, they have shorter odds than the Ravens despite Baltimore having a higher implied average win probability while playing in a slightly more difficult division. This marginal difference is due to the market being more attracted to the big payout of a Super Bowl bet versus a win total bet on the over.Schedule outlookWEEKOPPONENTLOOKAHEAD LINE1BUFBUF -1.52@DALDAL -2.53NENYJ -4.54KCKC -25@DENNYJ -16PHIPHI -18@NYGNYJ -1.59LACNYJ -210@LVNYJ -2.511@BUFBUF -412MIANYJ -2.513ATLNYJ -6.514HOUNYJ -8.515@MIAMIA -1.516WSHNYJ -5.517@CLENYJ -118@NENYJ -1Eight of the Jets' first nine games have projected point spreads of inside a field goal. That's somewhat unbecoming of a team that's No. 7 in the Super Bowl market, and dangerous if Rodgers has a hard time connecting with his new teammates or getting much out of the veterans he's hand-picked to come with him.Based on the respective ratings, the Chiefs (74) would be worth 20 out of 27 on a point spread valuation, while the Jets would be worth 16.2. That's a 3.8 difference in their Week 4 matchup before accounting for home-field advantage at MetLife Stadium. With the line offered below KC -2 and the importance of capturing the key number of -3, I would jump on the Chiefs before the market corrects downwards on the Jets.What's to like about the JetsJets QBs completed 57% of their passes for 14 touchdowns and 14 interceptions while getting sacked 42 times last year. Even if Rodgers was turning 50, he can do better than that.The Jets' defense surrendered only 4.8 yards per play last season, tied with the Eagles for the fewest in the NFL. They discovered a shutdown cornerback in Sauce Gardner, who won Defensive Rookie of the Year despite swiping only two interceptions. If he's shrinking the field for the rest of the Jets' secondary, while Quinnen Williams is taking up double- and triple-teams for the front seven, life will feel a lot easier for their teammates, and head coach Robert Saleh can scheme up problems for opposing QBs.What's not to like about the JetsThe Jets gave up 20+ points in their first four games last season, but the defense then inflated the metrics with wins over Skylar Thompson, Rodgers, Russell Wilson, and Trevor Siemian in four of their next seven games (with two losses to Mac Jones in that stretch). They also got the benefit of another look at Thompson in Week 18. It's possible that outside of Williams and Gardner, the defensive talent of this squad is OK.However, with Patrick Mahomes, Jalen Hurts, and Justin Herbert on the slate in the first nine games, and the possibility of Tua Tagovailoa available for the games with Miami, the defense has a whole new set of challenges.Ideally, a 40-year-old QB would have a good offensive line, but that's not the case for Rodgers. Left tackle Duane Brown is mediocre at best, and Mekhi Becton, the tackle on the other side, has played one game in two years.Other notable betting marketsPLAYERMARKETODDSAaron RodgersMVP+1600Most passing yards+2000Most passing TD+650Breece HallOffensive POTY+4500Most rushing yards+2000Most rushing TD+2500Comeback POTY+2500Garrett WilsonOffensive POTY+2800Most receptions+2500Most receiving yards+2000Most receiving TD+2200Sauce GardnerDefensive POTY+1500Quinnen WilliamsDefensive POTY+3000Most sacks+6500Robert SalehCoach of the Year+1600Rodgers is coming to New York to stabilize the QB position, not to win MVP, and 16-1 odds for him to do so with Nathaniel Hackett calling plays is downright laughable. If Rodgers accomplishes that basic task, it'll take credit away from Saleh, who's also unlikely to win Coach of the Year.The market is giving Gardner credit for winning DROY, but that was a nod to his effect on a team compared to a small subset of players. Teams aren't going to all of a sudden start throwing his way more, and he's therefore unlikely to rack up interception totals that would earn him Defensive Player of the Year honors.Matt Russell is the lead betting analyst for theScore. If there's a bad beat to be had, Matt will find it. Find him on Twitter @mrussauthentic.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Imagine a world where it doesn't matter who's the starting signal-caller in the NFL. Like any good bettor, we fight the concept that the quarterback is the be-all and end-all. But that's usually an argument relative to the overall valuation of a team. When it comes to betting markets, that's the universe where the 49ers reside, as it doesn't matter whether it's Brock Purdy, Trey Lance, or maybe even Sam Darnold playing quarterback.Apparently, Kyle Shanahan is just on that level. It seemed to matter for a while that Jimmy Garoppolo started San Francisco's games. But then Purdy was thrust into action last year and went full DJ Khaled - all he did was win - until he broke his arm in the NFC Championship Game.Beyond a lack of concern about the quarterback, the other point of emphasis for how the betting market feels about the 49ers (11-6 ATS last year) is that the NFC might stink.We dealt with the AFC in recent weeks, often alluding to the conference's loaded list of quarterbacks. It's fitting we start the NFC portion with San Francisco, projected as the conference's second-best team despite what would typically be a question mark at the most important position.2023 season oddsMARKETODDS(O/U)Win total10.5 (-140/+120)Division-155Conference+400Super Bowl+900Estimated rating63/100The 49ers' win total can be found at 11.5, with their under juiced as high as -165, or 10.5 with their over juiced to -140. Either way, that middle point of 11 projected wins suggests a .647 win percentage. In a relatively weak division within the weaker conference, the number should dip if we translate that to a league-wide rating. As such, we'll call the 49ers a 63/100.Schedule outlookWEEKOPPONENTLOOKAHEAD LINE1@PITSF -32@LARSF -4.53NYGSF -64ARISF -9.55DALSF -2.56@CLESF -17@MINSF -2.58CINSF -110@JAXSF -111TBSF -7.512@SEASF -1.513@PHIPHI -2.514SEASF -415@ARISF -6.516BALSF -317@WSHSF -3.518LARSF -7While our estimated rating calculations have often worked nicely in figuring out why various point spreads are what they are this season, it feels like San Francisco could be rated higher than 63.If we take the 27-point scale we've been using to determine point spreads, the 49ers are worth 17 points. They visit a Steelers (55/100) team worth 14.85 in Week 1. That makes San Francisco just over two points better than Pittsburgh, which means this line should be close to pick'em. San Francisco is a field goal favorite.Confusingly, the 49ers are also projected to be favored in all but one of their games this season. They appear to be rated higher on a game-to-game basis than in season-long markets.What's to like about the 49ersEven a casual NFL fan should be familiar with San Francisco since it's made the playoffs in three of the last four seasons and played nine postseason games over the stretch. That level of exposure and success, along with minimal roster turnover, means we know what we're getting from the Niners.The 49ers' front office has done another good job managing key roster departures - Mike McGlinchey, Jimmie Ward, Emmanuel Moseley - with veteran plug-ins thanks to an inexpensive quarterback room. The biggest names are all back on both sides of the ball, and Shanahan is still there to call the plays for whoever takes the snaps.What's not to like about the 49ersWhile Shanahan's the constant, the offensive coaching staff has taken hits year after year, and losing Demeco Ryans to the Texans is a big deal. He replaced Robert Saleh. Steve Wilks comes in as defensive coordinator after a successful stint in Carolina, but there's lost continuity. On the field, the secondary - always something of a concern with "the Faithful" - continues to get thinner.With McGlinchey scoring a big payday from the Broncos, the 49ers' depth chart lists 2020 fifth-round pick Colton McKivitz as the starter at right tackle next to Spencer Burford. If you were looking to put the heat on their young quarterback, the defensive left side would be your attack point.Other notable betting marketsPLAYERMARKETODDSBrock PurdyMVP+5000Most passing yards+7000Most passing TD+4000Trey LanceComeback POTY+3500Christian McCaffreyMVP+8000Offensive POTY+1500Most rushing yards+3500Most rushing TD+2500Most receptions+4000Deebo SamuelOffensive POTY+4000Most receptions+7500Most receiving yards+5000Most receiving TD+4000Nick BosaDefensive POTY+1200Most sacks+550Fred WarnerDefensive POTY+4500Kyle ShanahanCoach of the Year+3000Nick Bosa is +550 to defend his 2022 season sack title but has odds twice as long to get credit as the best defender in the league, which is intriguing.The offense is expected to run through Christian McCaffrey after he recorded 1,200 total yards in just 11 games with the 49ers last season. With a young quarterback relying on him heavily and a real shot at 2,000 all-purpose yards, he'll be in the conversation for Offensive Player of the Year.Matt Russell is the lead betting analyst for theScore. If there's a bad beat to be had, Matt will find it. Find him on Twitter @mrussauthentic.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Green Bay Packers president Mark Murphy praised Aaron Rodgers on Tuesday and said it's just a matter of time until the team retires the four-time NFL MVP's No. 12 jersey number."He was one of the greatest players in the history of the Packers, and we want to thank him for all he did during his remarkable 18-year career," Murphy said, according to The Athletic's Matt Schneidman. "He will be a first-ballot Hall of Famer, and we will bring him back and retire his number at the appropriate time."The Packers traded Rodgers to the New York Jets this offseason, ending the quarterback's decorated 18-season stint at Lambeau Field. Rodgers cited a lack of communication between him and members of Green Bay's front office as one of the reasons he wanted a trade. The 39-year-old, who will wear No. 8 in New York, led Green Bay to one Super Bowl title and holds the franchise record for most career touchdown passes (475).The Packers have retired six numbers, with Brett Favre's No. 4 being the most recent in 2015. Favre played in Green Bay from 1992-2007.With the Rodgers era in the rearview mirror, Murphy said he's optimistic that quarterback Jordan Love is ready to lead the Packers moving forward."We think it was the right time to move on," Murphy said. "We do think Jordan Love is ready. Similar to Aaron, who sat three years behind a Hall of Fame quarterback and learned a lot.""I'm comparing it a little bit to Aaron's first year as a starter. Yeah, I'd say at least half a season to know (what Love can do). And I think even though we ended up with a losing record that year, we saw enough of Aaron to know that we had something special," the 68-year-old added, according to ESPN's Rob Demovsky.However, Murphy expects bigger changes on offense."I think offensively, you're going to see probably a little bit more of Matt (LaFleur's) true offense," Murphy said. "Obviously, when you have a great quarterback like Aaron and somebody who's been in the league as long as he has, we gave him the flexibility to change plays and get in and out of things that really helped, but I would anticipate a strong running game and play-action off of that."Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Buffalo Bills running back and kick returner Nyheim Hines is expected to miss the entire 2023 season after suffering a significant knee injury off-site, reports NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.Hines suffered a torn ACL after being struck by a jet sky rider while sitting stationary on a jet ski, according to Pelissero. He reportedly sustained non-life-threatening injuries and will undergo surgery this week.The 26-year-old was expected to be Buffalo's top kick and punt returner this year. He joined the team midway through last season from the Indianapolis Colts.Hines had only six carries in nine appearances with the Bills in 2022 but scored two kickoff-return touchdowns while averaging 29.2 yards per return.A fourth-round pick in 2018, Hines spent four-plus seasons in Indianapolis. The NC State product posted the most productive campaign of his career in 2020, amassing 862 scrimmage yards and seven total touchdowns.Wide receivers Deonte Harty and Khalil Shakir, as well as safety Micah Hyde, are potential candidates to replace Hines as the Bills' return specialist in 2023.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The 2022 Seattle Seahawks were an unusual story both as a conduit for betting and in general. Having seen the face of the franchise dealt to Denver in the offseason, very little was expected of the offense post-Russell Wilson. Yet Seattle surprised from the start, beating the Broncos in Week 1's Monday night finale, and later when Geno Smith won Comeback Player of Year.So what's odd about a team outperforming their prescribed season win total of 5.5 with a 9-8 record and cashing as a significant underdog to make the playoffs? After all, this type of thing happens every NFL season.Despite exceeding expectations, the Seahawks were big losers against the spread, going just 7-10 if you bet them in individual games with another loss against the number in their blowout defeat at San Francisco in the wild-card round. If you didn't see Seattle's surprising season coming before it started, you were hard-pressed to be profitable by jumping on the bandwagon midseason. The market got so enthralled with the Seahawks' story that they covered just one point spread in their final nine games.2023 season oddsMARKETODDS(O/U)Win total8.5 (-145/+125)Division+200Conference+1100Super Bowl+3500Estimated rating51/100We are tasked with guessing whether the betting market's loss-inducing infatuation with the Seahawks has carried through the offseason and affected their odds in a way that sets the bar for success too high. Any 8.5 win total - priced at -110 on either side - would be the definition of mediocre. But the Seahawks' total is juiced to the over, suggesting it's lean to slightly above average.Schedule outlookWEEKOPPONENTLOOKAHEAD LINE1LARSEA -52@DETDET -2.53CARSEA -44@NYGNYG -16@CINCIN -4.57ARISEA -78CLESEA -29@BALBAL -310WSHSEA -411@LARSEA -212SFSF -1.513@DALDAL -3.514@SFSF -415PHIPHI -216@TENSEA -217PITSEA -2.518@ARISEA -4.5We've estimated that the rating of the Seahawks' Week 1 opponent - the Rams - is 36/100. That's good for a score of 9.7 out of a maximum of 27 possible spread points, while the near-average Seahawks get 13.7. Based on these estimations, the look-ahead point spread of Seahawks -5 adds only one point to account for Seattle's home-field advantage.What's to like about the SeahawksThe Seahawks' defense facilitated shootout-style games, and while that helped Smith put up exciting numbers, it meant big changes had to be made this offseason. Defensive linemen Al Woods, Poona Ford, Shelby Harris, and Quinton Jefferson were all released, respectfully labelled bad fits for the Seahawks' new 3-4 scheme, but none were signed to significant deals elsewhere. Given Seattle allowed almost five yards per carry last year, an overhaul was in order.Those moves cleared the deck to poach Dre'Mont Jones from Denver with a big deal, and the return of Jarran Reed. Meanwhile, Bobby Wagner is the more recognizable returnee, tasked with getting this group organized.The biggest (re-)addition might be Jamal Adams, as he's back after tearing a quad in the season opener to lead the secondary. Seattle hopes they struck gold again in the draft. The Seahawks grabbed cornerback Devon Witherspoon with the fifth overall pick in April, a year after getting Tariq Woolen. Seattle knows how to pick - and coach up - corners.What's not to like about the SeahawksGiven all the changes to the defense, it's prudent to take a wait-and-see approach before we beat up the Seahawks' defense based on last season's numbers. However, there's no guarantee that the change will be good.As for the offense, it's a somewhat similar situation. The Seahawks' late struggles aligned with a slip in play from their two rookie tackles, Charles Cross and Abraham Lucas. We're assuming that was the effect of hitting a rookie wall and that they'll excel from start to finish this year, especially since Smith's play dropped off as well.But with mid-tier pricing in the betting market, we're not getting that much value on hoping for the best on both sides of the ball.Other notable betting marketsPLAYERMARKETODDSGeno SmithMVP+4000Offensive POTY+10000Most passing yards+3500Most passing TD+3000Kenneth WalkerMost rushing yards+3000Most rushing TD+3000DK MetcalfOffensive POTY+6000Most receptions+3500Most receiving yards+3500Most receiving TD+2500Tyler LockettMost receptions+6500Most receiving yards+6000Most receiving TD+3500Jaxon Smith-NjigbaOffensive ROTY+1500Most receptions+6500Most receiving yards+10000Most receiving TD+7500Most rookie receiving yards+210Zach CharbonnetOffensive ROTY+5000Devon WitherspoonDefensive ROTY+1000Tariq WoolenDefensive POTY+10000Jamal AdamsComeback POTY+8000Uchenna NwosuMost sacks+5000Pete CarrollCoach of the Year+2500Jaxon Smith-Njigba is the favorite for most receiving yards among rookies, and he's the third choice for Offensive Rookie of the Year among non-quarterbacks. However, there's some concern about how his body might hold up in a full NFL season after essentially missing his last year at Ohio State.Before he got hurt, Adams was the type of impact player who was constantly noticeable - around the ball in the secondary and rushing the passer. If he stays healthy, and the Seahawks' defense does turn over a new leaf, why wouldn't Adams be a viable candidate to make it back-to-back Comeback Player of the Year award winners in Seattle?Matt Russell is the lead betting analyst for theScore. If there's a bad beat to be had, Matt will find it. Find him on Twitter @mrussauthentic.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Kansas City Chiefs star Chris Jones is eyeing a contract extension that'll make him at least the second-highest-paid interior defensive lineman in the NFL, a source told The Athletic's Nate Taylor.Jones, who didn't report to training camp this weekend due to his contract situation with the team, is seeking a new deal worth $30 million per year, Taylor adds.Los Angeles Rams superstar Aaron Donald leads all defensive tackles with an average annual salary of $31.67 million, according to Spotrac. New York Jets lineman Quinnen Williams is next on the list at $24 million after recently signing a four-year, $96-million extension.Jones' $20-million average annual salary currently ranks eighth at his position. The 29-year-old is in the last year of his contract. He previously inked an $80-million pact for four seasons in 2020.Jones is a cornerstone of Kansas City's defense. He earned his first first-team All-Pro nod in 2022 after racking up 29 QB hits and 15.5 sacks. The Mississippi State product then amassed six quarterback hits and two sacks in three playoff games to help the Chiefs win Super Bowl LIV against the Philadelphia Eagles in February.It's been a hot offseason for interior linemen, as four of the position's five biggest contracts were signed this year. In addition to Williams, Tennessee Titans' Jeffery Simmons, Washington Commanders' Daron Payne, and New York Giants' Dexter Lawrence also signed lucrative long-term deals.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Odell Beckham Jr. said he considered retiring from the NFL before signing with the Baltimore Ravens this year."I went through a lot the last couple of years, and I thought it was over," the star wide receiver recently said, according to Dan Pompei of The Athletic. "I didn't want to get back up on the horse and do the same song and dance all over again."Beckham didn't play last season after suffering a torn ACL in Super Bowl LVI as a member of the Los Angeles Rams. The 30-year-old visited multiple teams before signing a one-year, $15-million contract with the Ravens in April."If I'm honest, I was resistant," he said. "There were other places I wanted to go. I wasn't necessarily a Ravens fan - because the Ravens always whipped my ass."Beckham spent his first five NFL seasons with the New York Giants, earning a Pro Bowl berth in each of his first three years. The team then traded the first-round pick to the Cleveland Browns in 2019. He failed to meet expectations across two-plus seasons with the club.Beckham is now part of a Ravens team that heads into the 2023 campaign with lofty ambitions."I'm thinking like this is my last year," Beckham added. "I'm going to give it my all this year. And then if something happens after that, we can go from there."Baltimore re-signed quarterback Lamar Jackson to a lucrative multi-year deal this offseason and gave him multiple new weapons. In addition to Beckham, the Ravens drafted wide receiver Zay Flowers in the first round.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Cleveland Browns running back Nick Chubb was among many high-profile backs to participate in a Zoom call Saturday to discuss the state of the running back market.The meeting, which was first reported by ProFootballTalk's Mike Florio, was held as a response to the deflated market for running backs seeking a second contract following the inability of stars such as Saquon Barkley and Josh Jacobs to land extensions.The meeting was organized by Los Angeles Chargers running back Austin Ekeler, per Florio. Chubb noted that Barkley, Derrick Henry, and Christian McCaffrey participated. Jacobs also attended, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported. The Browns running back went into detail about the difficulties facing the position."Right now, there's really nothing we can do," Chubb said Sunday, per ESPN. "We're kind of handcuffed with the situation. We're the only position that our production hurts us the most. If we go out there and run 2,000 yards with so many carries, the next year they're going to say, you're probably worn down. It's tough. ... It hurts us at the end of the day."One topic discussed was agents creating faulty contracts by backloading running back contracts to inflate their value, Florio reports.Though the state of the running back market has been a long-term issue, concern grew louder when Barkley, Jacobs, and Tony Pollard were the only franchise-tagged players unable to land long-term contracts before Monday's deadline. All three will be forced to play the 2023 season on a salary of $10.1 million, though Barkley and Jacobs could hold out through training camp and even the regular season since they haven't signed the tag."Saquon's a great player, and you can ask anyone around the league or even on the Giants how much he means to that team," Chubb added. "So, it's hard seeing him not get what he deserves."Barkley and Jacobs' situation drew immense criticism from other running backs. McCaffrey called it "criminal," while Ekeler described the failed negotiations as the "kind of trash that has artificially devalued one of the most important positions."Chubb is one of five running backs that average an annual value of $12 million or more, per Spotrac.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo is expected to be available for the beginning of training camp this week after passing his physical Sunday, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.Garoppolo failed a physical upon joining Las Vegas as a free agent in March, with team doctors determining that he'd require another surgery to address the foot injury that ended his 2022 season. The Raiders subsequently reworked his contract in a manner that gave them the ability to walk away from the deal unless he was cleared by the medical staff.The original agreement called for Garoppolo to receive an $11.25-million signing bonus and an $11.25-million base salary in his first season with the team, according to ProFootballTalk's Mike Florio. However, as part of the reworked agreement, the entire signing bonus was folded into a $22.5-million base salary effectively made dependent on Garoppolo's recovery.The veteran signal-caller was a spectator for the team's entire offseason program after undergoing the second procedure on his foot, with Brian Hoyer, Chase Garbers, and fourth-round rookie Aidan O'Connell getting extra work in his place.Signed to replace departed starter Derek Carr, Garoppolo joins the Raiders already familiar with the offensive system put in place by head coach Josh McDaniels. The former second-round pick spent the first three-plus years of his career playing under McDaniels in New England before being traded to San Francisco in 2017.Garoppolo enjoyed a largely successful run over the last six years with the 49ers, including a run to the Super Bowl during the 2019 campaign. However, numerous injuries impacted his availability throughout. The 31-year-old started 55 regular-season games over that span, throwing for 13,599 yards, 82 touchdowns, and 42 interceptions.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones didn't report to training camp Saturday amid a contract standoff with the team, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter.Jones, who's seeking a new contract, remains "far apart" with the Chiefs on a deal, Schefter adds.The All-Pro defensive tackle is subject to a mandatory fine of $50,000 for every day he doesn't show, according to ESPN's Field Yates.Jones skipped minicamp last month, but head coach Andy Reid said at the time that he expected the defensive tackle to be at training camp.Jones is entering the final year of his contract and is set to earn a base salary of $19.5 million, per Spotrac. His cap hit for the 2023 campaign is just under $28.3 million.The 29-year-old matched a career high in sacks last season with 15.5. He added 17 tackles for a loss, 29 quarterback hits, and two forced fumbles.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker is expected to report to training camp Tuesday despite his wishes for a trade request or contract extension not being honored, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.The five-time Pro Bowl safety reportedly asked the Cardinals to either trade him or make him the highest-paid safety earlier this offseason. Baker skipped all the voluntary offseason activities but showed up for mandatory minicamp last month, though he didn't practice.Baker has two years left on his contract but has no guaranteed salary remaining, per Over The Cap. He's scheduled to earn base salaries of $13.1 million and $14.2 million, respectively, over the next two seasons. His average annual value of $14.75 million over the duration of his deal ranks seventh among all safeties.The 27-year-old is coming off a two-interception campaign that also saw him rack up 111 tackles and one forced fumble.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Davante Adams is hoping the Las Vegas Raiders and franchise-tagged running back Josh Jacobs can find common ground.Jacobs and the Raiders didn't agree to a long-term deal before Monday's deadline for franchise-tagged players to sign extensions. Jacobs, who hasn't signed his franchise tag, is uncertain for training camp and Week 1."If we really want to have a shot at winning the Super Bowl and having all the elite aspirations that we do, we're gonna need that guy," Adams said Friday on "NFL Total Access," according to Coral Smith of NFL.com. "I'm praying that we can still figure something out, but also understanding where Josh is coming from and trying to coach him through it at the same time."Adams is no stranger to the franchise tag. The receiver was tagged last year by the Green Bay Packers before being traded to the Raiders, who rewarded him with the long-term deal he sought. The 30-year-old said he's been offering help to Jacobs."I've been talking to him, we've been in his ear a little bit just trying to coach him through this process," Adams said. "I've been through it a couple times myself, and I know what it's like to go back and forth about whether or not you feel appreciated."Jacobs' franchise tag is worth $10.1 million. He was one of three players - all running backs - unable to land extensions. The lack of long-term contracts for the position drew criticism from many of the league's top running backs, with Christian McCaffrey calling it "criminal."Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

EA Sports released its Madden NFL 24 player ratings this week, prompting plenty of discussion about what it got right and where it went wrong.Here are 10 players who need their overalls tweaked:OverratedTerry McLaurin - 92 overall (WR8)McLaurin is a really good receiver, but he's not a great one. The 27-year-old has never reached 1,200 yards in a season despite averaging 119.25 targets per campaign. Yet he received a higher rating than players like A.J. Brown (91 OVR) and CeeDee Lamb (90 OVR), who are coming off 1,496- and 1,359-yard seasons, respectively. McLaurin doesn't need his overall tanked, but dropping to the high 80s would make sense.Chase Young - 85 overall (LE3) John Fisher / Getty Images Sport / GettyThough injuries have been Young's biggest issue, he's also failed to make a huge impact on the field. The 24-year-old has just 1.5 sacks over his last two seasons (12 games). That's a far cry from his Defensive Rookie of the Year campaign when he racked up 7.5 quarterback takedowns in 15 games. Young's teammate, Montez Sweat, is only an 82 overall despite posting a combined 13 sacks over the last two years (27 contests). Swapping the overall ratings of these two, and maybe even dropping Young some more, would make a lot of sense.Jamaal Williams - 85 overall (HB15)Williams had a breakout season last year ... kind of. The 28-year-old scored an NFL-leading 17 rushing touchdowns and ran for 1,066 yards, but that was behind one of the best offensive lines in football. Plus, only four of his touchdown carries were longer than 2 yards. Williams is a capable finisher and a solid back, but 85 overall is too rich.Rondale Moore - 80 overall (WR52) Christian Petersen / Getty Images Sport / GettyMoore has shown flashes of the playmaking ability that got him drafted in the second round of the 2021 draft, but the 5-foot-7 receiver has struggled with consistency and health. He's just barely met 400 yards in back-to-back seasons and had a 10.7% drop rate a year ago. Moore's athletic traits will understandably inflate his overall a bit, but he's produced closer to a low-70s player than an 80.Russell Wilson - 77 overall (QB18)Wilson endured the worst campaign of his career. He was sacked a league-worst 55 times and set new career lows in completion percentage, touchdowns, and several other categories. While 77 overall feels mostly fine in a vacuum, we're not sure that Wilson should be rated above Justin Fields (76 OVR), Matthew Stafford (75 OVR), or Daniel Jones (75 OVR).UnderratedJason Kelce - 92 overall (C1)Kelce is the anchor of the Eagles' offensive line and rightfully earned the top rating among all centers in Madden 24. However, he's deserving of an even better rating after earning his fifth first-team All-Pro in 2022. Kelce didn't allow a sack or a quarterback hit all of last season while allowing just 11 pressures, per PFF.Penei Sewell - 86 overall (RT4) Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyThe 22-year-old made his first Pro Bowl last year and was maybe the best player on a powerful offensive line. Sewell hasn't missed a snap since being selected with the No. 7 pick in the 2021 draft and allowed just two sacks in 2022. He was flagged eight times last year, which is probably too many for him to reach 90 overall, but as one of the most fluid and powerful offensive linemen in the league, Sewell deserves to be bumped up a few points.Javon Hargrave - 84 overall (DT10)Hargrave is coming off a career year as an interior rusher. The 30-year-old posted 11 sacks and earned an elite 90.8 pass rush grade from PFF. Hargrave capitalized in free agency, signing a four-year, $84-million deal with the 49ers, but EA Sports wasn't so kind in its evaluation. He ranks well behind players like the Bengals' D.J. Reader (87 OVR, zero sacks in 10 games) and the Colts' DeForest Buckner (86 OVR, eight sacks in 17 games).Tariq Woolen - 83 overall (CB27)The Seahawks seemed to strike gold when they selected Woolen in the fifth round of last year's draft - he had 16 pass deflections and tied for the league lead in interceptions, with six, as a rookie. Despite the elite ball production and finishing third in the Defensive Rookie of the Year race, Woolen has the same overall as Bills nickelback Taron Johnson and Jets No. 2 corner D.J. Reed.Frankie Luvu - 79 overall (LOLB14) Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images Sport / GettyLuvu was all over the field in 2022. He finished the campaign with 111 total tackles, 19 tackles for loss, seven sacks, nine QB hits, a forced fumble, an interception, and a touchdown. That's the same number of sacks as dedicated pass-rusher Josh Allen (85 OVR), 40 more tackles than the next rated LOLB, Sione Takitaki (76 OVR), and even more touchdowns than wide receiver Diontae Johnson (82 OVR).Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

With the 2023 regular season drawing closer, theScore is taking a look at some of the more fascinating training camp battles across the league. Whether it's a veteran trying to hold off a challenge from a rookie or new additions attempting to establish themselves ahead of roster holdovers, we attempt to settle some of this preseason's hottest competitions.49ers quarterbacksBrock Purdy vs. Trey Lance vs. Sam Darnold Michael Owens / Getty Images Sport / GettyThe Niners nearly made it to the Super Bowl last season despite losing their three top passers to injuries. With Jimmy Garoppolo no longer in the mix, head coach Kyle Shanahan must decide between a young star who has yet to taste defeat and the talent they traded most of their future assets to draft. Lance hasn't lived up to his first-round billing since being taken third overall in 2021. Injuries have been the main culprit in limiting the 23-year-old to just four starts. Purdy led San Francisco to seven consecutive wins and two postseason victories before suffering an elbow injury in the NFC title game. Darnold is also in the mix after starting the final six games for the Carolina Panthers in 2022.Predicted winner: Brock PurdyThe final pick of the 2022 draft proved to be a steady hand during his run as a starter and seemed to win over the locker room. Purdy, who's working his way back from offseason surgery, will get the opportunity to continue where he left off. The Iowa State product has San Francisco focused on finishing the job after a demoralizing NFC title game.Eagles running backsD'Andre Swift vs. Rashaad Penny vs. Kenneth GainwellMiles Sanders posted career highs in yardage and touchdowns last season, but the Eagles' front office moved on from him this offseason. General manager Howie Roseman acquired two backs to replace Sanders' production. Swift spent the past three seasons with the Detroit Lions, while Penny is looking for a fresh start after sustaining a broken fibula in his final season with the Seattle Seahawks. Gainwell didn't have a spectacular showing during the 2022 regular season but came through during Philly's first playoff matchups.Predicted winner: D'Andre SwiftQuarterback Jalen Hurts will be a factor in the Eagles' rushing attack, but we expect Swift to begin the 2023 campaign as RB1. Gainwell will likely have an increased workload as Penny works his way back from injury. Boston Scott should also get some touches in a reserve role.Ravens linebackersPatrick Queen vs. Trenton Simpson vs. Malik HarrisonThe middle linebacker position has long been a staple of the Ravens' defense. Ray Lewis set the precedent, and Roquan Smith appears set to continue the trend. The Ravens initially gave Queen the first crack at owning the position, but he failed to live up to his billing as a former first-round pick. Baltimore opted not to pick up the fifth-year option on Queen's rookie deal in the offseason. Eager to bring in competition, it drafted former Clemson standout Simpson this spring. Former mid-round pick Harrison has received infrequent reps as a starter through three seasons. With Smith re-signed and locked into one of the starting roles, who's set to line up beside him?Predicted winner: Patrick QueenAlthough the Ravens didn't pick up his option, Queen should have plenty of motivation in a prove-it year. His play noticeably picked up following Smith's arrival. The LSU alum could cash in as a free agent next offseason with a full season of consistent play.Jets pass-rushersCarl Lawson vs. Will McDonald IV vs. Jermaine Johnson Jim McIsaac / Getty Images Sport / GettyThe Jets possess an embarrassment of riches at each level of the defense. They'll need to sort their logjam of talent on the edge of the defensive line into a rotation eventually. Lawson, who suffered a torn Achilles in training camp ahead of the 2021 season, recorded nine tackles for loss and seven sacks in his return from the injury in 2022. The veteran will have two young guns mounting a serious charge at his starting role opposite John Franklin-Myers. McDonald has quickly impressed the Jets' staff with his ability to adapt to the speed and intricacy of the pro game. Johnson, a former first-round choice, picked up 2.5 sacks in his limited time as part of the Jets' rotation. With the ideal size and length at the position, Johnson possesses the pass-rushing potential that head coach Robert Saleh covets.Predicted winner: Carl LawsonAlthough there were rumblings that the club would move on from Lawson, the veteran accepted a pay cut to stay in New York. That said, the superlatives being used for McDonald suggest that it could be a matter of time before Lawson loses reps to the 2023 first-round pick.Bears running backsKhalil Herbert vs. Roschon Johnson vs. D'Onta ForemanChicago can inject a new flavor into its rushing attack after letting David Montgomery walk in free agency. Herbert returns with his patented elusiveness and ability to break off long runs. Foreman joins the group after enjoying a renaissance with the Panthers a season ago. He provides Matt Eberflus' offense with a skill set similar to that of Montgomery but with less experience in the system. Rookie Johnson played a supporting role as Bijan Robinson's co-star at Texas. Yet the 22-year-old stepped out into his own spotlight last season. Could he be ready to share a bigger stage in the backfield alongside Justin Fields?Predicted winner: Roschon JohnsonIn a tight battle between an incumbent, veteran, and rookie, we're giving the nod to the former Texas product. Johnson can play with physicality and be a receiving threat out of the backfield.Cowboys tight endsJake Ferguson vs. Luke Schoonmaker vs. Peyton HendershotDalton Schultz has packed up his bags and moved elsewhere in the Lone Star State. While the addition of Brandin Cooks should provide Dak Prescott with another reliable target in the passing game, Dallas will hold a preseason audition to replace Schultz. Ferguson backed up Schultz last season, hauling in 19 catches for 174 yards and two touchdowns, while Hendershot had 103 yards and 2 scores as well. Schoonmaker made 35 catches for 418 yards and three touchdowns in his final season at Michigan.Predicted winner: Jake FergusonDallas is set to embrace the youth movement at tight end after Schultz finished second on the team with 577 receiving yards. We're tabbing his 2022 understudy Ferguson to have the slight edge ahead of a green group that lacks experience despite being loaded with potential.Colts quarterbacksAnthony Richardson vs. Gardner Minshew Michael Owens / Getty Images Sport / GettyIt's been a bumpy stretch for Colts fans, with the team starting seven different quarterbacks since Andrew Luck's retirement in 2019. The franchise finally used an early-round selection to address its long-term future at quarterback following years of cycling through veteran options. Richardson is a dual-threat passer that many fans in Indianapolis (including owner Jim Irsay) would love to see open the 2023 season as starter. Minshew is a veteran who has starting experience and could help Shane Steichen navigate his first season at the helm. So is the future now or will the club lean on patience and experience when it names a starter?Predicted winner: Anthony RichardsonIt's a new era in Indianapolis. With a brand new head coach, why not let Steichen grow alongside his young signal-caller? Richardson is already providing favorable returns during offseason workouts. Predicted to be a project during the draft process, his best avenue to fulfilling his immense potential will be from experience. We envision the rookie getting the starting nod with a strong offensive line in front of him and star tailback Jonathan Taylor sharing the backfield.Giants wide receiversSterling Shepard vs. Darius Slayton vs. Wan'Dale Robinson vs. Parris Campbell vs. Jalin Hyatt vs. Jamison Crowder vs. Isaiah HodginsAfter pleas to address the quality of its depth chart at the position, the Giants must figure out the pecking order of their wideout corps. Shepard, Slayton, and Hodgins are holdovers from the previous regime. Robinson displayed glimpses of potential as a rookie last year before ending the season on injured reserve. Crowder and Campbell join the room as free-agent pickups, while rookie Hyatt has field-stretching explosion. With the Giants adding tight end Darren Waller in a trade this offseason, who else is poised to be an option for quarterback Daniel Jones?Predicted winners: Darius Slayton, Sterling Shepard, Parris CampbellAs tempting as it may be for the Giants to insert Hyatt into the starting rotation, the Tennessee product may be brought along slowly as a situational vertical target. Robinson could be a candidate to begin his 2023 campaign on the physically unable to perform list after undergoing surgery in December. Fans are unlikely to be thrilled by familiar names, but we trust that Brian Daboll can make do with this group.Lions linebackersAlex Anzalone vs. Jack Campbell vs. James Houston vs. Malcolm Rodriguez vs. Jalen Reeves-Maybin vs. Derrick Barnes vs. Julian OkwaraExpectations in Detroit are extremely high ahead of the 2023 season. If the Lions plan on contending in the NFC North, they'll need to sort out their rotation at linebacker. Anzalone returns to the Motor City after inking a new extension in the offseason. The Lions sought more toughness at the position in the draft, making former Iowa star Campbell one of their two first-round picks. "Hard Knocks" star Rodriguez should be poised for a larger role after starting 15 games in 2022. His fellow draft mate Houston displayed a knack for getting after the quarterback. Barnes has drawn rave reviews ahead of his third campaign after impressing during offseason workouts. Okwara and Reeves-Maybin are veteran options that could carve out roles.Predicted winners: Jack Campbell, Derrick Barnes, Malcolm RodriguezDan Campbell's club thrives on competition, so seniority won't be a factor here. We expect Campbell to usurp the incumbent Anzalone with a strong showing in camp and preseason. Rodriguez's star will continue to rise in Year 2. Barnes grabs hold of the other starting role to complete the trio of cubs set to pace the Lions ahead of a promising year.Patriots No. 3 wide receiverKendrick Bourne vs. Tyquan Thornton vs. Kayshon Boutte vs. Demario Douglas Bryan M. Bennett / Getty Images Sport / GettyIf the Patriots want to become contenders in a difficult AFC East division once again, sorting out their receiving depth chart has to be a priority. Jakobi Meyers walked in free agency, leaving a hole in the lineup. The Pats signed JuJu Smith-Schuster to offset the loss and rewarded DeVante Parker with an extension after he joined them last year, all but guaranteeing their spots atop the depth chart. Below them, Bourne is gunning for a bounce-back season after some of his stats took a tumble in his second campaign with the club. Thornton is a speedster who could be in line to build off modest first-year numbers. Rookies Boutte and Douglas will attempt to carve out roles but face uphill battles.Predicted winner: Tyquan ThorntonOffensive coordinator Bill O'Brien is tasked with resetting an offense that finished 26th in total yards per game (314.6) and averaged 21.4 points per contest in 2022. His top priority will be getting Mac Jones back on track. Smith-Schuster and Parker will give the third-year passer some reliable options in the passing game alongside tight ends Hunter Henry and Mike Gesicki. We're giving Thornton the edge for the No. 3 receiving role ahead of Bourne, who could find himself in a battle with the rookies for snaps.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Carolina Panthers and quarterback Bryce Young agreed to terms on his rookie contract on Friday, the team announced.It's a fully-guaranteed four-year, $37.9-million deal, reports ESPN's Adam Schefter. The pact also includes a signing bonus worth nearly $24.6 million, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.Carolina drafted Young first overall in April after he put on a show at Alabama. As the Crimson Tide's starter, the 21-year-old passed for 79 touchdowns against just 12 interceptions in two seasons. He also won the Heisman Trophy in 2021.The Panthers finished last season with a 7-10 record but acquired the first overall pick in this year's draft as part of a blockbuster trade with the Chicago Bears.Young joins a Carolina team that hasn't had a winning record since 2017. The Panthers had issues with quarterbacks in particular in 2022, starting three different passers throughout the campaign.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The New York Giants signed veteran wide receiver Cole Beasley and running back James Robinson, the team announced Friday.Beasley's pact is a one-year deal, ESPN's Jordan Raanan reports.Beasley played in two contests with the Buffalo Bills and a pair of games with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2022, hauling in six receptions for 35 yards.The 34-year-old announced his retirement after two games with the Buccaneers but returned to the Bills ahead of Week 15.Beasley reunites with head coach Brian Daboll in New York. Daboll was the Bills' offensive coordinator during Beasley's time in Buffalo from 2019-21. The Giants named Daboll head coach ahead of the 2022 campaign, leading the team to a 9-7-1 record in his first season at the helm.Beasley has 5,744 receiving yards and 34 touchdowns on 556 career receptions.Robinson will provide depth at running back and could see a healthy portion of snaps if Saquon Barkley holds out from signing his franchise tag. He'd likely split work with Matt Breida, Gary Brightwell, and Eric Gray if Barkley misses any time.The soon-to-be 25-year-old runner has 2,262 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns on the ground through 39 career games.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Aaron Rodgers' demeanor on the football field has Robert Saleh convinced that the veteran quarterback isn't going to have a short stop in New York.Saleh proclaimed that he'd be surprised if the Jets quarterback doesn't play multiple years for the team."Odds are, if you enjoy playing football, you're going to want to keep doing it," Saleh said Friday, according to ESPN's Rich Cimini. "I wouldn't put pressure on him to commit to something like that anyway, but I'd be shocked if he doesn't play multiple years. He looks like a little kid out there."Rodgers has yet to confirm whether he intends to play next year. Like in previous years, the 39-year-old pondered his playing future this offseason before deciding to continue his career. A member of the Green Bay Packers for the first 18 years of his career, Rodgers was traded to the Jets later this offseason.If he does intend to play next season, he'll likely need to rework his deal. Rodgers holds a $107.6-million cap hit for 2024, according to Over The Cap.The new Jets quarterback has seemingly enjoyed the latest chapter of his career. He previously described offseason activities with the team as "the most fun" he's had in a while."I just want him to have fun and know that when he walks in this building to let loose and have a little bit of fun, BS with the guys, come in the office, come talk to us, and just enjoy playing football," Saleh added.A four-time league MVP, Rodgers is aiming to bring the Jets back to the playoffs for the first time since 2010.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Running back Melvin Gordon and the Baltimore Ravens reached an agreement on a one-year contract, the team announced Friday.The deal is worth up to $3.1 million, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.Gordon played in 10 games with the Denver Broncos in 2022, rushing for 318 yards and two touchdowns. He also hauled in 25 receptions for an additional 223 yards.The two-time Pro Bowler joins a backfield that includes J.K. Dobbins, Gus Edwards, and undrafted rookie Keaton Mitchell, among others.Gordon has struggled with ball security since entering the league as the No. 15 pick in the 2015 draft. He's fumbled 26 times in 108 games, including five times with the Broncos last year.The 30-year-old has amassed 8,929 career scrimmage yards and 69 total touchdowns during his time with the Broncos and San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Get ready for your season with theScore's 2023 Fantasy Football Draft Kit and subscribe to push notifications in the NFL Fantasy News section.No fantasy manager should rigidly classify any player as a "must-have," but it's wise to enter your draft with a short list of names.While getting them all is probably impossible, you'll greatly increase your odds of achieving fantasy glory this season if you build your draft around selecting at least a few of the seven players on this list.More in this series

It's possible the Washington Commanders will get another major rebrand in the future.Magic Johnson, who is part of the ownership group led by Josh Harris that officially acquired the Commanders on Thursday, didn't rule out a name change after the 2023 season."I think everything's on the table, especially after this year," Johnson said on "The Today Show," according to Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post. "We'll see where we are with the name, but I can't say that right now."We're going to spend this year understanding what we have in place, and then I'm sure that that'll come up. The Commanders, the name of the team, will come up eventually. But right now, we got enough work to do that will keep us busy."Another change would mark the fourth name in recent memory. The NFL franchise retired the controversial Redskins team name - which had been in use since 1933 - after the 2019 campaign due to pressure from sponsors. The team then adopted the Washington Football Team moniker for two seasons before unveiling the Commanders name prior to the 2022 season.The Washington franchise was sold to Harris and Co. for a reported price of $6.05 billion, making it the most expensive acquisition ever of a U.S. sports franchise. The sale marked the end of a 24-season ownership tenure by Dan Snyder that was filled with multiple scandals over alleged workplace misconduct, sexual harassment, and financial impropriety.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Tennessee Titans and safety Kevin Byard have agreed on a restructured contract for the 2023 season, a source told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.Byard's base salary is now $11 million, though incentives could bring it back to $14 million, Rapoport adds.Byard was originally scheduled to earn a base salary of $13.6 million, as well as a $500,000 bonus that could've pushed his annual income to $14.1 million, per Spotrac.The two sides reportedly squabbled over his contract earlier this offseason. The Titans asked him to take a pay cut, which he declined. However, Byard said in June the parties were in a "good place."A two-time All-Pro, Byard has been a key fixture of the Titans' secondary since being selected in the 2016 NFL Draft. He's recorded 27 interceptions over his career, including four last season.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

NFL owners unanimously approved Josh Harris and his ownership group's purchase of the Washington Commanders from Dan Snyder at Thursday's league meeting in Minnesota, commissioner Roger Goodell announced.The league also released the findings of an independent investigation into allegations of sexual harassment and financial improprieties Thursday. Snyder will pay $60 million to the league to resolve the case.The Commanders reportedly sold for $6.05 billion, breaking the record for the most expensive acquisition of a U.S. sports franchise. The Rob Walton-led group that paid $4.65 billion for the Denver Broncos in 2022 held the previous mark."Josh will be a great addition to the NFL. He has a remarkable record in business, sports, and in his communities," Goodell said in a statement. "The diverse group that Josh has put together is outstanding for its business acumen and strong Washington ties, and we welcome them to the NFL."Goodell added: "I know he has a commitment to winning on the field, but also to running an organization that everyone will be proud of - and to making positive contributions in the community."Tanya and Dan Snyder agreed in May to sell the franchise to Harris and his group, which includes former NBA star Magic Johnson and billionaire Mitchell Rales. Final approval of the sale required at least 24 NFL owners to accept the deal."I'm going to be remembered for what I do in Washington. That's not lost on me. I'm all-in," Harris said Thursday, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.Washington is the third major sports franchise Harris owns. Alongside David Blitzer, Harris also owns the NBA's Philadelphia 76ers and NHL's New Jersey Devils.The sale signals the end of a scandal-filled ownership tenure by Snyder that spanned 24 seasons. His time in charge was tainted by alleged workplace misconduct, sexual harassment, and financial impropriety, leading to investigations by the NFL and Congress.An independent investigation by attorney Mary Jo White concluded that Snyder sexually harassed a former Commanders cheerleader and the Commanders did deliberately underreport NFL revenues to avoid the team's revenue-sharing obligations. However, Snyder's level of personal involvement in the revenue shielding was unclear."The conduct substantiated in Ms. White's findings has no place in the NFL," Goodell said. "We strive for workplaces that are safe, respectful, and professional."The league fined Snyder and the Commanders $10 million in 2021 following an investigation into the team's workplace. A 2022 report by the House Committee on Oversight and Reform also stated that Snyder played a part in creating a "toxic" workplace culture.Snyder purchased the Washington franchise in 1999. He announced in November 2022 that the family would explore selling the club.Harris inherits a Commanders team that hasn't won 10-plus games in a season in a decade. Washington has also finished third or worse in the NFC East in 14 of the last 17 campaigns.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Aaron Rodgers likes that the New York Jets are heading into the 2023 season surrounded by high expectations."It's spectacular, that's what you want," Rodgers said Thursday after his training camp debut with the Jets, according to SNY's John Flanigan. "You want to be part of a place that has high expectations, and there's a lot of positivity around here, which I think is definitely a good thing."New York acquired Rodgers this offseason in a trade from the Green Bay Packers, adding the four-time NFL MVP to a Jets team that boasted a top-five defense in 2022.As much as Rodgers embraces the vibe in New York this year, the 39-year-old said he doesn't want it to become an issue for his new team down the road."We have to temper expectation early on in camp and focus on the little things to get there. It's a long season," Rodgers said. "It's a journey. There's gonna be ups and downs, and I think we just have to build this thing the right way."He added: "There's a lot of excitement, though, and that's fun."Rodgers isn't the only Jets star who loves being surrounded by high expectations."The expectations being high is what we strive for as athletes, we love that," reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year Garrett Wilson said Thursday. "We want to have expectations to meet. No one wants to feel like they're being slept on or anything like that, and that's the vibe around here, it's cool."The second-year receiver added: "I'm not gonna beat around the bush, we want to win a Super Bowl. You don't make moves in the offseason like we did unless you're trying to get there."The Jets finished 2022 with a 7-10 record, missing the playoffs for the 12th consecutive season. New York's defense was among the league's best, but the team's offensive unit struggled, starting three different quarterbacks en route to finishing the campaign with the 29th-ranked scoring offense.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The New York Jets traded wide receiver Denzel Mims to the Detroit Lions, the Jets announced Thursday.The Lions will acquire Mims and a 2025 seventh-round pick in exchange for a conditional 2025 sixth-round selection.New York informed the 25-year-old pass-catcher that he'd be waived if the team failed to find a trade partner, a source told ESPN's Rich Cimini. The Jets previously discussed a potential Mims trade with the Dallas Cowboys, reports Josina Anderson of CBS Sports.Mims hasn't lived up to expectations since being drafted in the second round in 2020. The Baylor product, who has yet to score an NFL touchdown, caught only 11 passes for 186 yards in 2022. He's amassed 676 yards on 42 career receptions with N.Y. after posting a pair of 1,000-yard campaigns in college with the Bears.Mims will join a Detroit wide receiver depth chart headlined by Amon-Ra St. Brown, who led the team with 106 receptions, 1,161 yards, and six touchdown catches in 2022. Bolstering the WR room was one of the Lions' needs this year. Running back D'Andre Swift, who was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles this offseason, ranked second for Detroit with 48 catches across 14 games last season.Detroit - which drafted tight end Sam LaPorta in the second round this year - also rosters receivers Jameson Williams, Josh Reynolds, Kalif Raymond, and Marvin Jones Jr., who joined the club on a one-year contract in free agency. Williams will serve a six-game suspension for violating the NFL's gambling policy to begin the 2023 season.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco says he'll "absolutely" be good to go for the regular-season opener despite being sidelined by injuries this offseason.Pacheco couldn't participate in offseason workouts with the team after undergoing surgeries for shoulder and hand injuries. He confirmed that he played in Super Bowl LVII with a broken hand, which he suffered in the AFC title game, and nursed an injured shoulder for much of the season.He's been limited in sessions this week, though he's been a non-contact participant."Whenever the coaches allow me to play and whenever (coach Andy Reid) says you're good to go, that's when I'm going to go out there and I'm going to show," Pacheco said, according to ESPN's Adam Teicher.He added: "I'm feeling great right now. It's just a process and that takes time."The 2022 seventh-round pick shined in his rookie year, compiling a team-high 830 yards on the ground. He was also the leading rusher in the Chiefs' Super Bowl LVII victory with 76 yards.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

For a long time, no one wanted anything to do with the Miami Dolphins.The team was on a late-season plummet and lost five straight before Tua Tagovailoa's campaign-ending injury made matters worse. Even Week 18's playoff-clinching win came in a poor showing of a game.Tasked with visiting Buffalo with Skylar Thompson under center, the Dolphins were the 14-point underdogs. A peek at the box score makes it hard to believe that the Dolphins ever had a chance - they managed 42 rushing yards on 20 carries, and Thompson completed just 18 of 45 passes.The Dolphins covering their lone playoff game put their overall record against the spread at 10-8. How Miami fares this season depends on offseason acquisitions and the health of key pieces.2023 season oddsMARKETODDS(O/U)Win total9.5 (+105)Division+325Conference+1200Super Bowl+2000Estimated rating58/100Like the other AFC East teams, the Dolphins boost their rating from our first look back in May thanks to their division. With the betting market projecting 37 regular season wins for the four teams, the AFC East is behind only the AFC North as the best division in the NFL.Schedule outlookWEEKOPPONENTLOOKAHEAD LINE1@LACLAC -2.52@NEMIA -2.53DENMIA -3.54@BUFBUF -3.55NYGMIA -4.56CARMIA -77@PHIPHI -48NEMIA -49@KCKC -411LVMIA -5.512@NYJNYJ -2.513@WSHMIA -3.514TENMIA -715NYJMIA -1.516DALMIA -1.517@BALBAL -118BUFMIA -1.5While they're the third betting choice in the AFC East, the Dolphins are the sizeable favorites against non-divisional teams like the Broncos, Giants, Panthers, Raiders and Titans.Assuming the Bills and Chiefs are still the class of their divisions, Week 1 in Los Angeles increases in import. If we turn the Chargers' estimated rating of 63 into a winning percentage, they're good for 17 out of 27 points on a spread scale. The Dolphins' 58 rating gets them 15.7. That 1.3-point difference and a tally for the Chargers' limited home-field advantage make the Chargers 2.5-point favorites. Given the Dolphins were small favorites in this matchup last year, there may be some value on Miami - especially if a +3 shows up for the Chargers between now and the opener.What's to like about the DolphinsAssuming Miami's starting quarterback returns, Tagovailoa's accuracy unlocks Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle's ability to catch and run for massive yardage in Mike McDaniel's offense.The addition of star corner Jalen Ramsey creates arguably the best secondary in the league - which is critical in a division with Josh Allen and Aaron Rodgers. It also goes a long way with Justin Herbert, Patrick Mahomes, Jalen Hurts and Dak Prescott on the schedule.If the Dolphins sign Dalvin Cook, things could look a lot different for them this season. They carry +195 odds to acquire the former Vikings star, and it seems like the battle is between only Miami and New England. While giving a tailback a big, long-term contract might not be the best move, getting a good one for a small, short-term investment would certainly help a Miami team that hasn't had a 1000-yard rusher since 2016.What's not to like about the DolphinsIf something happens to Tagovailoa, the Dolphins have to rely on Mike White, which means McDaniel needs to worry more about protecting his quarterback than ever before.Even if Miami gets Cook, there's no guarantee that he'll have the requisite holes to run through. After all, it's not like the Dolphins haven't tried numerous other tailbacks. Plus, signing Cook would take opportunities away from De'Von Achane - the third-round pick that I'd like to see get ample carries.Other notable betting marketsPLAYERMARKETODDSTua TagovailoaMVP+2200Offensive Player of the Year+5000Most passing yards+2200Most passing touchdowns+1600Comeback POTY+2000Tyreek HillMVP+15000Offensive POTY+2000Most receptions+800Most receiving yards+900Most receiving TDs+2200Jaylen WaddleOffensive POTY+4000Most receptions+3000Most receiving yards+3000Most receiving TDs+2500Raheem MostertMost rushing yards+5000Most rushing TDs+3000Jaelan PhillipsDefensive POTY+5000Most sacks+5000Bradley ChubbDefensive POTY+5500Most sacks+7500Jalen RamseyDefensive POTY+7500Jevon HollandDefensive POTY+15000De'Von AchaneOffensive ROTY+3500Mike McDanielCoach of the Year+1800It tells you all you need to know about the Dolphins' defense that Xavien Howard and Christian Wilkins aren't one of their top-four choices in the Defensive Player of the Year market.If Cook doesn't become a Dolphin, grab Achane for Offensive Rookie of the Year since Raheem Mostert's inconsistent durability is all that stands in his way.A full, healthy season from Tagovailoa - and the stats that would come with it - will garner Comeback Player of the Year attention, so the 20-1 odds ask much less of him than any of the statistical markets do.Matt Russell is the lead betting analyst for theScore. If there's a bad beat to be had, Matt will find it. Find him on Twitter @mrussauthentic.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The value of running back contracts in the NFL is "a big concern" for Ole Miss back Quinshon Judkins."I've seen the things that they've done with the running back position and the contracts and the things in the NFL that the running backs are dealing with," Judkins said Thursday, according to ESPN's Heather Dinich.New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley and Las Vegas Raiders runner Josh Jacobs were franchise tagged this offseason. Both failed to secure long-term deals with their respective clubs ahead of Monday's deadline. Neither has signed the tag.Dallas Cowboys running back Tony Pollard also received the franchise tag and signed the $10.09-million tender.Judkins took note of the situation and wants "to be seen as a guy who can really do it all.""That's why I've improved my game as far as showing what I can do in the passing game," said the Rebels back. "I have a lot of receptions, a lot of passing yards. I can not only be used in the backfield, but I can also be used in the slot as well."San Francisco 49ers back Christian McCaffrey and Tennessee Titans runner Derrick Henry were among a group of NFL backs that spoke out against the status of the position's market Monday, with McCaffrey calling it "criminal" that teams won't offer running backs more lucrative deals.Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

theScore's Andrew Dixon and Daniel Valente research and rank the best active NFLers by jersey number.Part 1 (0-49) | Part 2 (50-99)0. Roquan Smith, LB, Ravens Cooper Neill / Getty Images Sport / GettyTraded from the Bears to the Ravens midseason, Smith, who's changing to No. 0 this season, put together his best year in 2022 with 169 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and three interceptions. Baltimore rewarded Smith by making him the highest-paid linebacker in NFL history with a five-year, $100-million contract.Others: Calvin Ridley (Jaguars), D'Andre Swift (Eagles)1. Ja'Marr Chase, WR, BengalsThe options to represent No. 1 made this choice difficult, but in the end, Chase stands above the rest. What the Bengals star has been able to do in just two seasons (2,501 yards, 22 TDs) is nothing short of remarkable.Others: Sauce Gardner (Jets), Jalen Hurts (Eagles)2. Patrick Surtain, CB, BroncosSurtain has launched himself into superstardom in record time. Entering his third season, the former top-10 pick has already become one of the most feared cornerbacks in the league, as he's racked up six interceptions and 24 pass breakups.Others: Darius Slay (Eagles), D.J. Moore (Bears)3. Derwin James, S, ChargersIt's impossible to have a conversation about the best safeties in the NFL without mentioning James. The three-time Pro Bowler has recorded multiple interceptions and 100-plus tackles in three of the four seasons he's played (missed all of 2020 due to injury).Others: Budda Baker (Cardinals), Brandin Cooks (Cowboys)4. Dak Prescott, QB, CowboysNo. 4 is a quarterback-filled number, but out of all our candidates, Prescott comes out on top thanks to down years from Watson and Carr. Though he led the league in interceptions in 2022, Prescott has been a model of consistency since taking the Cowboys' starting job as a rookie in 2016.Others: Deshaun Watson (Browns), Derek Carr (Saints)5. Jalen Ramsey, CB, Dolphins Megan Briggs / Getty Images Sport / GettyThere's not really much that needs to be said about Ramsey. But in case anyone has forgotten, the six-time Pro Bowler has racked up eight interceptions and 34 pass breakups in the last two seasons alone. After dominating with the Jaguars and Rams, Ramsey will look to continue his stellar play with the Dolphins.Others: Tee Higgins (Bengals), Kayvon Thibodeaux (Giants)6. DeVonta Smith, WR, EaglesSo much for all the concerns over Smith's stature when he came into the league. Two years later, the Eagles wideout has produced to the tune of 159 catches for 2,112 yards and 12 touchdowns.Others: Eric Kendricks (Chargers), Miles Sanders (Panthers)7. Haason Reddick, EDGE, EaglesReddick was arguably the NFL's biggest secret before he arrived in Philadelphia. Though he's had double-digit-sack seasons in the past, Reddick exploded in 2022, as his 16 sacks and league-leading five forced fumbles earned him his first Pro Bowl invite.Others: Trevon Diggs (Cowboys), Geno Smith (Seahawks)8. Lamar Jackson, QB, RavensInjuries have plagued the last two seasons for Jackson, but the Ravens quarterback is still the game's biggest dual-threat weapon when healthy. The competition for the No. 8 spot was tough - especially with Rodgers now in the category - but we feel Jackson still stands above the rest.Others: Aaron Rodgers (Jets), Josh Jacobs (Raiders)9. Joe Burrow, QB, BengalsArguably the coolest player in football, Burrow's swagger has translated to newfound success for the Bengals. Over the past two seasons, the LSU product has thrown for 69 touchdowns while also notching five playoff wins, including a trip to Super Bowl LVI.Others: Matthew Judon (Patriots), Justin Tucker (Ravens)10. Tyreek Hill, WR, Dolphins Megan Briggs / Getty Images Sport / GettyIt's a stacked group at No. 10, and it almost feels like there's no wrong answer. We're rolling with Hill, thanks to an injury-filled year for Kupp. In his first season as a Dolphin, Hill set career highs in receptions (119) and receiving yards (1,710).Others: Cooper Kupp (Rams), Justin Herbert (Chargers)11. Micah Parsons, EDGE, CowboysParsons hasn't stopped making plays since the Cowboys selected him in the first round of the 2021 draft. With 26.5 sacks, six forced fumbles, and 33 tackles for a loss, it feels like only a matter of time before Parsons finally takes home Defensive Player of the Year honors.Others: A.J. Brown (Eagles), Brandon Aiyuk (49ers)12. Darren Waller, TE, GiantsThe last two seasons haven't gone his way, but Waller takes the top spot based on his past performances. Still one of the most dangerous tight ends, Waller is just two years removed from a 1,100-yard season. He could get back to that in a Giants offense that lacks top-end receiving options.Others: Chris Olave (Saints), Jacoby Brissett (Commanders)13. Mike Evans, WR, Buccaneers Death, taxes, and Evans going over 1,000 yards. There hasn't been a wide receiver in NFL history as consistent as Evans, who's now recorded at least 1,000 receiving yards in nine straight seasons to start his career.Others: Keenan Allen (Chargers), Christian Kirk (Jaguars)14. Stefon Diggs, WR, BillsDiggs has been averaging nearly 1,400 yards per season since coming to Buffalo. Even as he approaches age 30, there's little reason to believe Diggs will start slowing down, especially after he just put up 1,429 yards and a career-high 11 touchdowns in 2022.Others: DK Metcalf (Seahawks), Amon-Ra St. Brown (Lions)15. Patrick Mahomes, QB, Chiefs Kohjiro Kinno / Sports Illustrated / GettyThis isn't a contest. Mahomes is not only the best player to wear No. 15, but he's undisputedly at the top of the NFL's food chain after his second Super Bowl win in four seasons.Others: Jaelan Phillips (Dolphins), Nelson Agholor (Ravens)16. Trevor Lawrence, QB, JaguarsAfter taking a massive leap with Doug Pederson in 2022, Lawrence seems poised to firmly plant his flag among the league's best passers this year. The Jaguars quarterback threw 15 touchdowns to just two interceptions over his last nine games last season.Others: Tyler Lockett (Seahawks), Jared Goff (Lions)17. Davante Adams, WR, RaidersAdams proved he didn't need Aaron Rodgers in his first campaign with the Raiders. Despite a clear drop in quarterback play, Adams still managed to eclipse 1,500 receiving yards while also grabbing 14 touchdowns.Others: Josh Allen (Bills), Jaylen Waddle (Dolphins)18. Justin Jefferson, WR, VikingsSomehow, Jefferson continues to get better with each passing year, which seems crazy considering he's only entering Year 4. The 24-year-old led the NFL in receptions (128) and receiving yards (1,809) in 2022. That's after he put up 1,400 yards as a rookie and 1,616 yards as a sophomore.Others: Diontae Johnson (Steelers), Matthew Slater (Patriots)19. Deebo Samuel, WR, 49ersA true offensive weapon, Samuel took the NFL by storm in 2021 before a pedestrian 2022 season brought him back down to earth. Even accounting for his lesser-than-usual numbers last year, the 49ers star is still averaging a whopping 14.5 yards per catch and 11.6 yards per touch over his career.Others: Adam Thielen (Panthers), Kadarius Toney (Chiefs)20. Tony Pollard, RB, Cowboys Sam Hodde / Getty Images Sport / GettyPollard received the biggest workload of his career last season, and the result was him moving past Elliott as the Cowboys' lead back. His first 1,000-plus-yard campaign earned him the franchise tag and the No. 1 RB job heading into 2023.Others: Greg Newsome (Browns), Breece Hall (Jets)21. Jordan Poyer, S, BillsThere doesn't seem to be any slowing down for Poyer, who's entering his 11th season. The veteran safety has been the heart and soul of the Bills' secondary for a number of years now. His play has been remarkable, as he's grabbed multiple interceptions every year with Buffalo, including nine over the last two seasons.Others: Stephon Gilmore (Cowboys), Denzel Ward (Browns)22. Derrick Henry, RB, TitansIn an era where running backs have become fungible, Henry continues to be irreplaceable for the Titans. After injuries cut short his 2021 campaign, Henry came back last year and put up 1,538 yards and 13 touchdowns. A former 2,000-yard rusher, it's impossible to predict when Henry will slow down.Others: Harrison Smith (Vikings), Chidobe Awuzie (Bengals)23. Christian McCaffrey, RB, 49ersA trade to the 49ers was all McCaffrey needed to rejuvenate his career. In just 11 games, he recorded 1,210 yards from scrimmage and 10 total touchdowns. In total, he tallied over 1,800 yards last season, which was his best showing since his All-Pro campaign in 2019.Others: Jaire Alexander (Packers), Marshon Lattimore (Saints)24. Nick Chubb, RB, BrownsChubb is in the midst of a pretty incredible run, as he's cemented himself as one of the most lethal backs in the sport. He's had four straight 1,000-plus-yard seasons and four consecutive Pro Bowl nods. He's also been incredibly efficient, averaging at least five yards per carry in each of his five seasons.Others: A.J. Terrell (Falcons), James Bradberry (Eagles)25. Xavien Howard, CB, Dolphins Mark Brown / Getty Images Sport / GettyHoward is set to form one of the scariest cornerback duos alongside Jalen Ramsey in 2023. Two seasons removed from a 10-interception campaign, Howard hasn't allowed a completion percentage above 60% in three straight seasons, per Pro Football Reference.Others: Tyler Allgeier (Falcons), Elijah Mitchell (49ers)26. Saquon Barkley, RB, GiantsIt finally all came together for Barkley in 2023. A career-high 1,312 yards plus 10 touchdowns helped carry the Giants to their first playoff appearance since 2016.Others: Asante Samuel Jr. (Chargers), Devin Singletary (Texans)27. Tre'Davious White, CB, BillsWoolen could seriously challenge for this spot in the near future, but for now, White still owns the crown. The veteran cornerback returned from an ACL tear in 2022 and allowed just 7.4 yards per target, per PFR. In six career seasons, he's also grabbed 17 interceptions.Others: Tariq Woolen (Seahawks), J.C. Jackson (Chargers)28. Jonathan Taylor, RB, ColtsLast season was the worst of Taylor's career, but that's not saying much, considering he still averaged 4.5 yards per carry and totaled over 1,000 yards from scrimmage. The Colts running back is also just one season removed from a league-leading 1,811-yard campaign.Others: Joe Mixon (Bengals), Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah (Browns)29. Kendall Fuller, CB, CommandersFuller has been playing at a very high level since returning to Washington three years ago. He's grabbed eight interceptions since 2020, including two pick-6s last season.Others: Xavier McKinney (Giants), Talanoa Hufanga (49ers)30. Austin Ekeler, RB, Chargers Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyIt was a close call between Ekeler and Bates, but the Chargers running back gets the nod. One of the most dynamic dual-threat backs, Ekeler has put up over 1,500 yards from scrimmage in three of his last four seasons. His 38 total touchdowns since 2021 also lead the league.Others: Jessie Bates (Falcons), Jamaal Williams (Saints)31. Justin Simmons, S, BroncosSimmons continues to stake his claim as the best safety in the NFL. His six interceptions last season led the league and marked the third straight season he's recorded at least five picks. The Broncos safety has also recorded two or more interceptions in each of his seven campaigns.Others: Kevin Byard (Titans), Antoine Winfield Jr. (Buccaneers)32. Tyrann Mathieu, S, SaintsThe Honey Badger continues to be a mercenary in the secondary. In his first season with the Saints, Mathieu put up a personal-best 91 tackles while also grabbing three interceptions. With 29 interceptions over 10 seasons, Mathieu has been one of this era's biggest defensive stars.Others: Nick Bolton (Chiefs), Marcus Williams (Ravens)33. Aaron Jones, RB, PackersWhile Jones is accustomed to putting up 1,000-plus yards on the ground, his efficiency is truly where he makes his money. In four of his six seasons, he's averaged over five yards per carry. The lowest figure of his career is still only 4.6 yards per attempt. The former Pro Bowler has been a maestro at slicing through front sevens.Others: Jamal Adams (Seahawks), Javonte Williams (Broncos)34. Jalen Thompson, S, CardinalsPlaying opposite of Budda Baker, Thompson has fallen under the radar, but the Washington State product has been extremely valuable for the Cardinals. He's racked up 231 tackles and four interceptions over the past two seasons.Others: Alex Anzalone (Lions), Justin Hardee (Jets)35. Charvarius Ward, CB, 49ers Tim Nwachukwu / Getty Images Sport / GettyA player whose talent far outreaches their recognition, Ward has quietly done a stellar job with the Chiefs and now the 49ers. Over the past four seasons, he's never allowed a completion percentage above 57.1%, according to PFR.Others: Jamel Dean (Buccaneers), Gus Edwards (Ravens)36. Kevin Harris, RB, PatriotsThere weren't many candidates to pick from when it comes to No. 36, but Harris gets the edge despite having rushed for only 52 yards last season. However, the running back could see his workload increase this year for the Patriots.Others: Danny Johnson (Commanders), Ja'Sir Taylor (Chargers)37. Amani Hooker, S, TitansHooker has blossomed into a decent accomplice to Kevin Byard in the Titans' secondary. Since becoming a key defensive piece in 2020, Hooker has grabbed six picks and forced two fumbles.Others: Bryce Hall (Jets), Tre Herndon (Jaguars)38. L'Jarius Sneed, CB, ChiefsSneed might be among the most underappreciated cornerbacks in the game. With multiple interceptions in each of his three seasons, Snead added another dimension to his arsenal in 2022, recording over 100 tackles and three forced fumbles.Others: Rhamondre Stevenson (Patriots), Myles Hartsfield (49ers)39. Minkah Fitzpatrick, S, SteelersFitzpatrick has been the ballhawk safety the Steelers had been looking for since Troy Polamalu retired. In just four seasons, Fitzpatrick has grabbed 17 interceptions, including six last season, which tied for the league lead.Others: Jamal Agnew (Jaguars), Nate Hobbs (Raiders)40. Von Miller, EDGE, Bills Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyMiller will have his work cut out for him as he returns from a torn ACL. But his production prior to the injury was incredibly assuring. The eight-time Pro Bowler posted eight sacks in 11 games last season.Others: Malik Harrison (Ravens), Nik Needham (Dolphins)41. Alvin Kamara, RB, SaintsKamara's streak of five consecutive Pro Bowls came to an end in 2022, but that doesn't mean his production did, as he posted his sixth straight campaign of 1,300-plus yards from scrimmage. The Saints star keeps finding ways to get it done, which is something not many running backs can claim.Others: Josh Allen (Jaguars), Reggie Gilliam (Bills)42. Patrick Ricard, FB, RavensThough fullbacks are slowly becoming extinct across the league, Ricard has done a phenomenal job in the Ravens' backfield. Ricard has made the Pro Bowl in four straight years, dating back to 2019.Others: Andrew Wingard (Jaguars), Tony Fields (Browns)43. Andrew Van Ginkel, EDGE, DolphinsVan Ginkel has outplayed his draft billing since being picked in the fifth round in 2019. In 31 career starts, the Dolphins outside linebacker has recorded 11 sacks, 23 tackles for a loss, and 38 quarterback hits.Others: Michael Davis (Chargers), Justice Hill (Ravens)44. Marlon Humphrey, CB, RavensHumphrey missed the Pro Bowl in 2021 after a year in which he was hindered by injuries. However, he didn't miss a beat in his return last season, grabbing three interceptions. A complete playmaker, Humphrey has 12 interceptions along with 13 forced fumbles in his career.Others: Kyle Juszczyk (49ers), Travon Walker (Jaguars)45. Devin White, LB, Buccaneers Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images Sport / GettyWhite hasn't been able to replicate the play he showed during an outright monster postseason run in 2020, but he's still the top candidate for No. 45. He's now in the midst of a three-season run with 120-plus tackles.Others: K'Lavon Chaisson (Jaguars), Duke Riley (Dolphins)46. Luke Rhodes, LS, ColtsIt's a long snapper-dominated discussion for No. 46, and Rhodes is the best of the bunch. The Colts snapper earned Pro Bowl and first-team All-Pro nods in 2021.Others: Morgan Cox (Titans), Jon Weeks (Texans)47. Josey Jewell, LB, BroncosThe Broncos found a key member of their front seven when they picked Jewell in the fourth round of the 2018 draft. He set new career highs in tackles (128), tackles for a loss (seven), and interceptions (two) in 2022.Others: Arnold Ebiketie (Falcons), Bryce Huff (Jets)48. Jahlani Tavai, LB, PatriotsTavai has done a thankless job during his tenure with the Patriots. One of Bill Belichick's most trusted special teams stars, Tavai got a bigger opportunity on defense in 2022 and turned it into 69 tackles and 1.5 sacks in 12 starts.Others: Chad Muma (Jaguars), J.T. Gray (Saints)49. Frankie Luvu, LB, Panthers Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyIt may seem absurd to not pick Edmunds, but Luvu simply outproduced the new Bears linebacker as a playmaker. Luvu compiled 111 tackles, seven sacks, one forced fumble, and one interception.Others: Tremaine Edmunds (Bears), Alex Singleton (Broncos)Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

theScore's Andrew Dixon and Daniel Valente research and rank the best active NFLers at each jersey number.Part 1 (0-49) | Part 2 (50-99)50. Vita Vea, DL, BuccaneersVea feels like a lock for double-digit tackles for a loss, and he's an effective pocket pusher, too. Rousseau and Gay have flashed, but Vea's the established talent.Others: Greg Rousseau (Bills), Willie Gay Jr. (Chiefs)51. Kwity Paye, EDGE, ColtsPaye had six sacks and 10 TFLs in 12 games with Indy last season. Ojulari could catch Paye if he stays healthy and builds on a good early start to his career.Others: Azeez Ojulari (Giants), Cesar Ruiz (Saints)52. Creed Humphrey, C, ChiefsHumphrey had stiff competition, but we opted for the anchor of the Chiefs' offensive line.Others: Rashan Gary (Packers), Khalil Mack (Chargers)53. Brian Burns, EDGE, Panthers Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images Sport / GettyThe Panthers' top pass-rusher had a career-high 12.5 sacks last season. Leonard could take this spot back if he returns to All-Pro form after playing in just three contests in 2022.Others: Shaquille Leonard (Colts), T.J. Edwards (Bears)54. Fred Warner, LB, 49ersWarner is one of the best young linebackers in the league and earned the nod over two long-time Pro Bowlers.Others: Lavonte David (Buccaneers), Bobby Wagner (Seahawks)55. Logan Wilson, LB, BengalsGraham is still productive (11 sacks in 2022) despite his age, but Wilson is an ascending player with an all-around game.Others: Brandon Graham (Eagles), Leighton Vander Esch (Cowboys)56. Quenton Nelson, G, ColtsThere's no denying that Nelson is coming off a down season, but it'll take more than one to dethrone the 27-year-old.Others: Demario Davis (Saints), Alex Highsmith (Steelers)57. C.J. Mosley, LB, JetsMosley rebounded from a few campaigns of mediocre play and was named second-team All-Pro last year. Greenlaw isn't too far behind him, though.Others: Dre Greenlaw (49ers), Germaine Pratt (Bengals)58. Matt Milano, LB, BillsBuffalo feeds on Milano's impactful plays, which included three interceptions and 12 TFLs in 2022. Sewell can catch Milano if he continues to develop.Others: Penei Sewell (Lions), Bobby Okereke (Giants)59. De'Vondre Campbell, LB, Packers Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyThe 30-year-old linebacker has tallied at least 92 tackles every season since 2017. Houston was an extremely productive situational pass-rusher as a rookie and could take over No. 59 if he rounds out his game.Others: James Houston (Lions), Kenyon Green (Texans)60. David Andrews, C, PatriotsAndrews allowed just two sacks on 485 pass-blocking snaps last year, per PFF.Others: Mitch Morse (Bills), Daniel Brunskill (Titans)61. Mason Cole, C, SteelersCole isn't a dominant blocker, but he showcased elite discipline in 2022. The 27-year-old allowed only two sacks and was flagged just once, according to PFF.Others: Matt Hennessy (Falcons), Max Mitchell (Jets)62. Jason Kelce, C, EaglesIt feels like Kelce could play forever after earning his fifth first-team All-Pro nod at age 35. Thuney is no slouch for the Chiefs, but Kelce might own No. 62 until he retires.Others: Joe Thuney (Chiefs), Lucas Patrick (Bears)63. Chris Lindstrom, G, FalconsLindstrom is coming off a breakout season in which he earned an elite 95.0 PFF grade and second-team All-Pro honors.Others: Corey Linsley (Chargers), Austin Corbett (Panthers)64. Tyler Linderbaum, C, RavensThe Iowa product started all 17 contests for the Ravens as a rookie and was a force in the run game with an 84.2 PFF run-blocking grade.Others: Mark Glowinski (Giants), Ted Karras (Bengals)65. Lane Johnson, OT, Eagles Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyLike Kelce, Johnson seems to be aging like a fine wine. The 32-year-old was a dominant pass-blocker in his 15 starts in 2022, earning an 89.8 PFF pass-blocking grade.Others: Trey Smith (Chiefs), Alex Cappa (Bengals)66. Ryan Jensen, C, BuccaneersJensen missed last year's regular season due to a serious knee injury, but he's an All-Pro-level blocker when healthy.Others: Connor McGovern (Bills), Dylan Parham (Raiders)67. Charles Cross, OT, SeahawksCross still has plenty of room for improvement, but he flashed as a rookie.Others: Cordell Volson (Bengals), Drew Dalman (Falcons)68. Taylor Decker, OT, LionsPicking between Decker and Mailata was tough, with both being productive left tackles. Decker's fewer sacks allowed, penalties, and pressures gave him the edge.Others: Jordan Mailata (Eagles), Brandon Scherff (Jaguars)69. David Bakhtiari, OT, PackersBakhtiari is one of football's top tackles when healthy. McGlinchey could capture No. 69 with a few good years.Others: Mike McGlinchey (Broncos), Shaq Mason (Texans)70. Zack Martin, G, Cowboys Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyMartin could be the best player ever to don No. 70. He earned his sixth first-team All-Pro selection in 2022.Others: Rashawn Slater (Chargers), Kevin Zeitler (Ravens)71. Trent Williams, OT, 49ersThe 49ers standout is one of the best in the league, regardless of position. Williams earned a 91.9 grade or better from PFF in each of the last three seasons.Others: Ryan Ramczyk (Saints), Christian Darrisaw (Vikings)72. Terron Armstead, OT, DolphinsMiami spent big to acquire Armstead ahead of the 2022 campaign, and the blocker responded with his fourth Pro Bowl season.Others: Taylor Moton (Panthers), Garrett Bolles (Broncos)73. Dion Dawkins, OT, BillsDawkins earned back-to-back Pro Bowl nods while protecting Josh Allen's blindside.Others: Jonah Jackson (Lions), Jonah Williams (Bengals)74. Kolton Miller, OT, RaidersThe Raiders haven't had a ton of consistency along the offensive line outside of Miller. He's played 100% of the club's offensive snaps in each of the last four seasons, per PFR.Others: Elgton Jenkins (Packers), D.J. Humphries (Cardinals)75. Joel Bitonio, G, Browns Emilee Chinn / Getty Images Sport / GettyBitonio has earned five straight Pro Bowls, back-to-back first-team All-Pros, and a trio of second-team selections before that.Others: Alijah Vera-Tucker (Jets), Orlando Brown Jr. (Bengals)76. Kaleb McGary, OT, FalconsMcGary has been consistent since entering the league in 2019 and has played nearly every offensive snap in that time.Others: Chukwuma Okarafor (Steelers), Jon Runyan (Packers)77. Frank Ragnow, C, LionsAnother close call. Smith's frequent unavailability gave the edge to Ragnow between the Pro Bowlers.Others: Tyron Smith (Cowboys), Wyatt Teller (Browns)78. Laremy Tunsil, OT, TexansWe opted for Tunsil's longevity in a very close race. Thomas or Wirfs could easily leapfrog the Texan in the coming years if they maintain their elite play. Wirfs is also working through switching from right to left tackle.Others: Andrew Thomas (Giants), Tristan Wirfs (Buccaneers)79. Ronnie Stanley, OT, Ravens Will Newton / Getty Images Sport / GettyStanley takes No. 79 due to his talent and upside. He needs to remain on the field in 2023 to retain the top spot next year.Others: Rob Havenstein (Rams), Spencer Brown (Bills)80. Greg Dulcich, TE, BroncosA trio of 2022 draft picks appear primed to battle for No. 80 for the foreseeable future. Dulcich earned the top spot after outproducing the others in fewer games a year ago.Others: Jelani Woods (Colts), Isaiah Likely (Ravens)81. Mike Williams, WR, ChargersWilliams could be one of the NFL's premier deep ball and red zone weapons if he stays healthy. Still, he eclipsed 750 yards in each of the last four seasons despite missing time.Others: Tim Patrick (Broncos), Hayden Hurst (Panthers)82. Logan Thomas, TE, CommandersThomas is a steady, though unspectacular, contributor. Bellinger flashed in his 12 appearances a year ago, but he's now behind Darren Waller on the depth chart.Others: Daniel Bellinger (Giants), Adam Trautman (Broncos)83. Tyler Boyd, WR, BengalsWhile Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins deservedly get the spotlight, Boyd is an excellent tertiary option in the passing game. He's posted five straight campaigns with at least 762 yards and four touchdowns.Others: Dalton Schultz (Texans), Tyler Conklin (Jets)84. Cordarrelle Patterson, RB/KR, FalconsPatterson is unlikely to replicate his 2021 production on offense, but he's still a threat to take any touch to the house.Others: Kendrick Bourne (Patriots), Corey Davis (Jets)85. George Kittle, TE, 49ers Ezra Shaw / Getty Images Sport / GettyThe 29-year-old is one of the most complete tight ends in the league and is coming off a career-high 11 touchdown receptions. It would take quite a bit to unseat Kittle, a four-time Pro Bowler.Others: David Njoku (Browns), Hunter Henry (Patriots)86. Zach Ertz, TE, CardinalsInjuries have begun to plague Ertz, and the 32-year-old's hold on No. 86 doesn't feel ironclad. Slayton is in a prime position to leapfrog Ertz this year.Others: Darius Slayton (Giants), Johnny Mundt (Vikings)87. Travis Kelce, TE, ChiefsThere's a legitimate argument for Kelce as the best tight end to ever play the game, which is unfortunate for Hockenson. It's unlikely he'll catch the Chiefs legend unless he retires.Others: T.J. Hockenson (Vikings), C.J. Uzomah (Jets)88. CeeDee Lamb, WR, CowboysBoth Goedert and Freiermuth have good traits and production, but Lamb is one of the best receivers in the league. The 24-year-old has 3,396 yards and 20 touchdowns through three seasons.Others: Dallas Goedert (Eagles), Pat Freiermuth (Steelers)89. Mark Andrews, TE, RavensAndrews has never finished a campaign with less than 550 yards and owns 34 career touchdowns. He turns 28 in September, but No. 89 could belong to Andrews for years to come.Others: Tyler Higbee (Rams), Rashid Shaheed (Saints)90. T.J. Watt, EDGE, Steelers Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyWe couldn't give this nod to anyone but Watt. The 2021 Defensive Player of the Year played in only 10 games last season, but it was still enough to earn his fifth Pro Bowl selection.Others: Demarcus Lawrence (Cowboys), Grover Stewart (Colts)91. Trey Hendrickson, EDGE, BengalsHendrickson is among the more underrated pass-rushers in the league. He's recorded three consecutive seasons with at least 24 QB hits.Others: Preston Smith (Packers), John Franklin-Myers (Jets)92. Justin Madubuike, DL, RavensThe 25-year-old quietly pieced together a productive 2022 campaign, finishing with 42 tackles, 5.5 sacks, nine QB hits, and eight TFLs.Others: B.J. Hill (Bengals), Zach Sieler (Dolphins)93. Jonathan Allen, DL, CommandersAllen has 127 tackles, 16.5 sacks, 26 TFLs, and 47 QB hits across the last two seasons. Campbell and Jones are solid players at this stage of their careers, but they don't match Allen's impact.Others: Calais Campbell (Falcons), Justin Jones (Bears)94. Cameron Jordan, EDGE, Saints Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyJordan continues to produce despite recently turning 34 years old. The pass-rusher has posted at least 7.5 sacks every season since 2012 and has made six consecutive Pro Bowls.Others: Daron Payne (Commanders), Christian Wilkins (Dolphins)95. Myles Garrett, EDGE, BrownsNo. 95 is among the most loaded around the league with three All-Pro defenders rocking it. We opted for Garrett, but it's unbelievably close as Jones and Williams are also dominant forces.Others: Chris Jones (Chiefs), Quinnen Williams (Jets)96. Denico Autry, DL, TitansAutry's versatility allows him to rush off the edge or from the interior. It translated into eight sacks, eight TFLs, and 19 QB hits in 2022.Others: Maliek Collins (Texans), Derek Barnett (Eagles)97. Nick Bosa, EDGE, 49ersLike 95, No. 97 also features a defensive trio with All-Pro caliber talent. Bosa, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, got the nod in part thanks to his league-leading 18.5 sacks a year ago.Others: Dexter Lawrence (Giants), Cameron Heyward (Steelers)98. Maxx Crosby, EDGE, RaidersCrosby took the cake, but this was another tough call. The Raiders edge defender recorded more sacks (12.5), TFLs (a league-best 22), and QB hits (36) than Simmons and Hargrave in 2022. And he's still just 25 years old.Others: Jeffery Simmons (Titans), Javon Hargrave (49ers)99. Aaron Donald, DL, Rams Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times / GettyDonald has been one of the best players in football for a long time. Last year was the first season he hadn't received a first-team All-Pro nod since his Defensive Rookie of the Year campaign in 2014. Donald recorded five sacks, 10 TFLs, and 11 QB hits in an injury-shortened 2022 season.Others: Danielle Hunter (Vikings), DeForest Buckner (Colts)Copyright (C) 2023 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.