Saturday, September 21, 2019
Sunday, September 8, 2019
Atlanta Falcons sign wide receiver Julio Jones to three-year, $66 million contract extension
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| Julio Jones photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Friday, Jones signed a 3 year, $66 million contract with Atlanta, including $64 million guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $22 million. The new deal makes the 30-year-old the highest paid wide receiver in the league.
Jones also set a record for the most guaranteed money in a NFL contract for a non-QB with 97 percent of his contract guaranteed.
Jones was drafted by the Falcons in the first round with the sixth overall pick in 2011. Since that time he has been a six time Pro Bowler, two time First Team All Pro, two time Second Team All Pro, two time NFL receiving yards leader, and the 2015 NFL receptions co-leader.
In his eight year NFL career Jones has amassed 704 receptions for 10,762 receiving yards and 52 receiving touchdowns.
The new deal locks the Alabama alum in place through the 2023 season.
Antonio Brown cut by Oakland Raiders, signed by the New England Patriots
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| Antonio Brown photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Saturday, Brown signed a one year, $15 million contract with the New England Patriots, including $9,000,000 guaranteed.
Brown was traded to the Raiders this offseason where he signed a $30 million deal. His time in Oakland was filled with controversy and problems from the start.
Brown suffered extreme frostbite on the soles of his feet after entering a cryogenic chamber without proper foot attire. This forced him to miss training with his teammates.
Brown next created a stir when his preferred helmet of choice was banned by the league. He threatened to retire from the league over the issue. After twice being denied his petition to play with an older unapproved helmet, Brown found a new helmet as well as an endorsement deal.
Finally the 31 year old missed walk throughs and was fined by the team. He posted the notification on his Instagram and was later confronted by general manager Mike Maock. After an extremely heated exchange where Brown had to be restrained, the team threatened to suspend him. He publicly apologized for his actions, but the team suspended him anyway. This led to the cancellation of his guaranteed money. Brown immediately asked for his release from the team, which the Raiders obliged on Saturday. Several hours later the Patriots signed the Pro Bowler to a deal.
Many have speculated that Brown's actions over the last few weeks may have been calculated in order to get out of his deal with Oakland. However this is unlikely since the termination of his Raiders contract meant the loss of $30 million guaranteed for just $9 million guaranteed with New England.
The addition of Brown gives the Patriots three of the best receivers in the league with Josh Gordon and Julian Edelman.
New England Patriots sign cornerback Jonathan Jones to a three year contract extension
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| Jonathan Jones photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Friday Jones signed a three year, $21 million contract with the Patriots, including $13 million guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $7 million.
The 25-year-old was signed by the Patriots as an undrafted rookie out of Auburn in 2016. Since that time the 2x Super Bowl champion has amassed 98 tackles, 2.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and four interceptions.
The new deal will keep Jones in New England through the 2022 season.
Miami Dolphins sign offensive tackle Jesse Davis to a contract extension
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| Jesse Davis photo courtesy: Associated Press |
Dolphins have continued to make big moves in the early part of the season.
On Friday, Jesse Davis signed a three year, $15 million contract with the Miami Dolphins, including $8.5 million guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $5 million.
Davis was signed by the Seahawks as an undrafted rookie out of Idaho in 2015 but would be cut before the start of the season. He would sign with Jets in January 2016 but be cut in August. He signed with the practice squad in November of that year but would be cut two weeks later. He would sign with the Dolphins practice squad shortly after his departure from the Jets.
Davis made the Dolphins 53-man roster in 2017 and was named the starting right guard. He became the starting left guard in 2017. In his four year NFL career Davis has played in 32 games, starting 26.
The new deal locks the 27-year-old in Miami through the 2022 season.
The new deal locks the 27-year-old in Miami through the 2022 season.
Wednesday, September 4, 2019
Dallas Cowboys sign Ezekiel Elliott a six year contract extension
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| Ezekiel Elliott photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Wednesday, Elliott signed a six year, $90 million contract with the Dallas, including a $7.5 million signing bonus, $50,052,137 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $15 million.
The 24-year-old was drafted with the fourth overall pick in the first round in 2016 by the Cowboys. Since that time he has been a 2x NFL rushing yards leader, 2x Pro Bowler, 1x Second Team All Pro and 1x First Team All Pro.
In his three year NFL career the veteran rusher has amassed 868 rushes for 4,048 rushing yards and 28 rushing touchdowns along with 135 receptions for 1,199 receiving yards and six receiving touchdowns.
The new deal locks Elliott in place through the 2026 season.
Jared Goff signs four year contract extension with Los Angeles Rams
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| Jared Goff photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Tuesday, The 2x Pro Bowler signed a 4 year, $134 million contract with the Los Angeles Rams, including $110 million guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $33.5 million.
The 24-year-old was drafted first overall by the Rams in 2016. Since that time he has led the team to a Super Bowl and amassed 72 passes for 9,581 passing yards and 65 passing touchdowns along with 79 rushes for 175 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns.
The new deal locks Goff in place through the 2024 season.
Jaguars sign linebacker Myles Jack to four year contract extension
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| Myles Jack photo courtesy: Getty Images |
Jack signed a 4 year, $57 million contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars, including $33 million guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $14.25 million.
The 24-year-old was drafted in the second round by the Jaguars in 2016. Since that time he has amassed 221 tackles, five sacks, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, two interceptions and two defensive touchdowns.
The new deal locks veteran linebacker in with the Jaguars through the 2023 season.
Monday, September 2, 2019
Roster cut downs bring massive changes around the league
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| Jadeveon Clowney photo courtesy: Associated Press |
Biggest moves came from the Dolphins who traded offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil and wide receiver Kenny Stills to the Texans and linebacker Kiko Alonso to the Saints.
Texans traded defensive end Jadeveon Clowney to the Seahawks who sent them defensive end Jacob Martin, defensive end Barkevious Mingo and a 2020 third-round pick.
Bills released running back LeSean McCoy who was quickly signed by the Chiefs.Chiefs then traded running back Carlos Hyde to the Texans for for offensive tackle Martinas Rankins. Vikings cut wide receiver Laquon Treadwell and signed wide receiver Josh Doctson. Seahawks released defensive tackle Earl Mitchell. Patriots released QB Brian Hoyer who was quickly signed by the Colts. Bengals claimed running back Samaje Perine. Packers claimed QB DeShone Kizer. Redskins claimed running back Wendell Smallwood.
Su’a Craven was cut by the Broncos.Captain Munnerlyn was cut by the Bills. Torrey Smith was cut by the Panthers. Jerick McKinnon placed on IR by 49ers Orlando Scandrick was cut by the Eagles. Graham Gano placed on IR by Panthers. Green Bay
Sunday, August 25, 2019
Patriots tight end Lance Kendrick suspended first game on 2019 season
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| Lance Kendricks photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Saturday NFL Network announced that the 31-year-old had been suspended for the first game of the 2019 season for violation of the league's policy and program on substances of abuse. Kendricks received probation in July for a 2017 marijuana possession charge in which he pleaded no contest.
Kendricks isn't the first Patriots tight end to be suspended. Earlier this offseason Benjamin Watson was suspended for the first four games of the 2019 season for violating the league's policy on performance enhancing drugs.
Kendricks is on the bubble of making the team's 53-man roster.
Houston Texans running back Lamar Miller out for the season with torn ACL
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| Lamar Miller photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Sunday ESPN announced that the 28-year-old had suffered a torn ACL and would be out for the season.
Miller was carted off the field during the first quarter of the Texans matchup versus the Cowboys on Saturday night. The team feared the worst which was confirmed on Sunday morning.
Miller has been Texans leading rusher since 2016. His loss puts immense pressure on recently acquired running back Duke Johnson and veteran running back Taiwan Jones. With roster cutdowns just one week away Texans also have the option of acquiring a veteran rusher off waivers.
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck retires from the NFL
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| Andrew Luck photo courtesy: Getty Images |
On Saturday ESPN reported that the 29-year-old had informed the Indianapolis Colts that he was retiring from the NFL. Luck proceeded to hold a press conference shortly after the Colts third preseason game confirming the news and advising it was a very difficult decision but repeated battles back from injury had taken their toll on him both mentally and physically.
The Stanford alum was a 4x Pro Bowler, 2014 NFL passing touchdowns leader and 2018 NFL Comeback Player of the Year. Despite his on-field success, Luck was plagued by injuries including a shoulder injury that kept him sidelined the entire 2017 season. The shoulder had been an issue since 2015. His recent leg injury only added for his decision to leave the game now.
In his seven year NFL career Luck started 86 games and amassed 2,000 passes for for 23,671 passing yards and 171 passing touchdowns along with 332 rushes for 1,590 rushing yards and 14 rushing touchdowns.
Luck will have to pay back the Colts over $12 million in bonus money for retiring now. His announcement leaves quarterback Jacoby Brissett as the team's starting quarterback. Brissett was traded to the Colts by the Patriots in 2017. Brissett has played 20 games for Indianapolis, starting 15.
Friday, August 23, 2019
Linebacker Paul Worrilow retires from the NFL
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| Paul Worrilow photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Saturday the 29-year-old announced his retirement from the NFL. The stunning announcement came just one day after he signed with the Baltimore Ravens.
Worrilow was signed by the Falcons as an undrafted rookie out of Delaware in 2013. He spent four years in Atlanta before signing with the Lions in 2017. He spent one year in Detroit before signing with the Eagles in 2018. He would spend one year in Philadelpia before his release this offseason.
In his six year NFL career the 6'/230 pound veteran has amassed 415 tackles, four sacks, 11 pass deflections, three forced fumbles and two interceptions.
New York Jets sign wide receiver Quincy Adeboyejo
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| Quincy Adeboyejo photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Thursday NFL Network reported that the Jets signed wide receiveer Quincy Adeboyejo.
The 24-year-old was signed by the Ravens as an undrafted rookie out of Ole Miss in 2017. He was signed to the team's practice squad in September of that year and promoted to the active roster that December. He spent the 2018 season on the physically unable to perform list and was waived by Baltimore this offseason.
In a subsequent move the Jets released wide receiver J.J Jones. Jones played in the final game of the 2018 season for the Jets but his spot on the 53-man roster this season wasn't guaranteed.
Thursday, August 22, 2019
New England Patriots safety Patrick Chung indicted for felony cocaine possession
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| Patrick Chung photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Thursday ESPN reported that the 32-year-old was indicted in New Hampshire on a felony cocaine possession charge.
Chung was indicted on August 8th for an incident that took place on June 25th in Meredith, New Hampshire. Meredith Police were called to Chung's home for a service call and during the course of the call obtained evidence that led to the possession charge.
Chung was drafted by the Patriots in the second round in 2009. He has spent all but one season of his playing career in New England.
He is due in court on August 28th for the charges.
Eagles trade defensive tackle Bruce Hector for Cardinals safety Rudy Ford
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| Rudy Ford photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Thursday ESPN reported that Philadelphia had traded defensive tackle Bruce Hector for Arizona Cardinals safety Rudy Ford.
Hector was unlikely to make the 53-man roster as the Eagles are deep at the defensive tackle position. The trade for Ford gives the team more depth behind starting safeties Malcolm Jenkins, Rodney McLeod and Andrew Sendejo. Ford will compete with Jonathan Cyprien, Tre Sullivan, Trae Elston and Deiondre Hall for a spot behind those three.
Ford was a sixth round pick by the Cardinals in 2017. In his two year NFL career the 24-year-old has played in 23 games, starting one and amassed 14 tackles.
Wide receiver Michael Crabtree signs one-year deal with Arizona Cardinals
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| Michael Crabtree photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Wednesday NFL Network reported that Crabtree signed a one-year, $3.25 million contract with the Arizona Cardinals.
Crabtree was drafted with the 10th overall pick in the first round by the 49ers in 2009. He would spend six years in San Francisco before signing with the Raiders in 2015. He spent three seasons in Oakland before signing with the Ravens in 2018. He spent one season in Baltimore before being released this offseason.
In his nine year NFL career the veteran pass catcher has amassed 633 receptions for 7,477 receiving yards and 54 receiving touchdowns.
The signing comes the same day the team released wide receiver Kevin White.
Houston Texans offensive tackle David Steinmetz out for the season with broken ankle
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| David Steinmetz photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Wednesday ESPN reported that the 24-year-old was out for the season with a broken ankle. He underwent surgery Wednesday night to repair the damage.
Steinmetz was signed by the Dolphins as an undrafted rookie out of Rhode Island in 2018. He was released and signed by the Texans to their practice squad last November.
The offensive lineman was the second-string right tackle for the team and was playing for a chance at the 53-man roster this season.
Defensive tackle Damon Harrison signs one year extension with Detroit Lions
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| Damon Harrison photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Wednesday NFL Network reported that 30-year-old signed a one year $11 million extension with the Lions.
Detroit acquired Harrison in a trade with the Giants last October. In his 10 games with the team he made 50 tackles and 3.5 sacks.
The veteran defensive lineman was signed by the Jets as an undrafted rookie in 2012. He spent four years with the Jets before signing with the Giants in 2016. He spent part of three seasons with the Giants before the trade last season.
In his six year NFL career the First Team All Pro has amassed 436 tackles, nine sacks, four forced fumbles, seven pass deflections and one interception.
The new deal locks Harrison in with the Lions through the 2021 season.
New York Jets linebacker Brandon Copeland suspended first four games of 2019 season
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| Brandon Copeland photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Wednesday ESPN reported that 28-year-old had been suspended the first four games of the 2019 season for violating the NFL policy on performance enhancing drugs.
The loss of Copeland first four games is a blow to the team's defense who lost linebacker Avery Williamson for the season with a torn ACL.
Copeland played in all 16 games for the Jets last season. In his six year NFL career the veteran defender has amassed 65 tackles, 5.5 sacks and one forced fumble.
Copeland will be available to practice and play for the remainder of the preseason but with the Jets on bye week in Week 4, he won't' be available to hit the field in the regular season until Week 6 against the Cowboys.
Wide receiver Jakeem Grant signs four-year extension with Miami Dolphins
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| Jakeem Grant photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Wednesday NFL Network reported that Grant signed a four-year, $24 million contract with the Dolphins, including an average annual salary of $6 million.
The 26-year-old was drafted in the sixth round by the Dolphins in 2016. In his three year NFL career the 5'7, 169 pound pass catcher has amassed 34 receptions for 471 receiving yards and four receiving touchdowns along with 2,036 return yards and three return touchdowns.
The new deal locks Grant in Miami through the 2023 season.
Linebacker Stephone Anthony signs with New York Jets
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| Stephone Anthony photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Monday NFL Network reported that the 27-year-old was signing with the New York Jets. He will be reunited with head coach Adam Gase who he played under in Miami from 2017 to 2018.
Anthony was drafted in the first round by the Saints in 2015. He would spend two seasons in New Orleans before being traded to the Dolphins in 2017. He would spend two seasons in Miami before signing with the Falcons this offseason. He was released by Atlanta on Sunday and signed with the Jets on Tuesday.
In his four-year NFL career Anthony has amassed 149 tackles, one sack, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, one interception and one defensive touchdown.
Wide receiver Dontrelle Inman signs with Los Angeles Chargers
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| Dontrelle Inman photo courtesy: Associated Press |
Just days after being cut from the Patriots, the 30 year old was signed by Los Angeles.
Inman previously played four seasons with the Chargers from 2014-2017. He played 41 games for the team starting 23.
In his five year NFL career the veteran pass catcher has amassed 158 receptions for 2,101 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns.
Tuesday, August 20, 2019
Oakland Raiders wide receiver Antonio Brown files second grievance over helmet
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| Antonio Brown photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Monday the 31-year-old wide receiver filed a second grievance in regards to his helmet.
The new grievance argues that Brown was not allotted a one-year grace period to transition to a new helmet.
Patriots quarterback Tom Brady was advised last season that the style of helmet he wears had been banned for use by the NFL and the NFLPA but was given one year to make a transition to an approved helmet. Brown feels he deserves the same grace period.
Brown's preferred helmet, the Schutt Air Advantage was originally banned because of its age. When Brown found a newer version of the same helmet, the league sent the helmet off for safety testing and when it failed banned it again for safety issues, but since the league didn't originally ban it because of safety concerns, Brown feels his argument has merit.
The new grievance will be heard by an arbitrator on Friday.
Dallas Cowboys linebacker Jaylon Smith signs five year contract extension
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| Jaylon Smith photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Tuesday ESPN reported that Smith signed a five-year, $64 million contract with Dallas, including $35.50 million guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $12.8 million.
The 24-year-old was drafted in the second round by the Cowboys in 2016. Smith had suffered a torn ACL and MCL in his final collegiate appearance and spent the entire 2016 season on injured reserve. He would make his debut for the team in the team's 2017 season opener against the Giants. Since that time Smith has played in 32 games, starting 22.
In his three year NFL career, Smith has amassed 202 tackles, five sacks, four forced fumbles, six passes defended and one defensive touchdown.
With Smith's long-term deal now complete the Cowboys can return their focus to working out deals with quarterback Dak Prescott, running back Ezekeil Elliott and wide receiver Amari Cooper.
Indianapolis Colts running back D'Onta Foreman out for the season with torn bicep
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| D'Onta Foreman photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Monday NFL Network reported that the 23-year-old had suffered a torn bicep muscle and would be out for the season. Colts placed Foreman on injured reserve with recovery time from the injury slated at four months.
The Texans released Foreman earlier this month and the Colts were hopeful to get some production out of the young back. With the loss of the talented rusher, the team signed running back Charcandrick West to fill the void.
Sunday, August 18, 2019
Quarterback Josh McCown returns to the NFL, signs with Philadelphia Eagles
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| Josh McCown photo courtesy: Associated Pres |
After announcing his retirement his offseason the 40-year-old decided to return for his 17th season and play for the Eagles. On Friday McCown signed a one-year, $2 million fully guaranteed contract with Philadelphia.
The journeyman passer spent the last two seasons with the Jets after spending time with the Cardinals, Lions, Raiders, Dolphins, Panther, 49ers, Bears, Buccaneers and Browns. In his 16 year NFL career McCown has amassed 1,581 passes for 17,707 passing yards and 98 passing touchdowns along with 1,108 rushing yards and 13 rushing touchdowns.
The signing leaves quarterback Cody Kessler’s future with the team in limbo. The team released wide receiver Braxton Miller to make room for McCown.
Wide receiver Josh Gordon reinstated to the NFL
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| Josh Gordon photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Friday the NFL announced that the 28 year old had been conditionally reinstated to the league following his indefinite suspension in December. Gordon was allowed to rejoin the team on Sunday and was added to the Patriots roster on their Non-Football Injury’s list.
The NFI allows Gordon to be activated to the roster at any time and counts against the team’s 90 man roster. He is expected to make a quick return to the starting line up.
In a subsequent move, the team released wide receiver Dontrelle Inman to create space on the roster for Gordon. Inman was signed to the team in mid May.
New York Jets linebacker Avery Williamson out for the season with torn ACL
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| Avery Williamson photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Friday ESPN reported that the 27 year old had suffered a torn ACL during the Jets preseason game against the Falcons on Thursday night and would be out for the season.
Williamson was drafted in the fifth round by the Titans in 2014. He would spend four seasons in Tennessee before signing with the Jets last season. In his five year NFL career Williamson has amassed 497 tackles, 14.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries and three interceptions.
Jets signed free agent linebacker Albert McClellan to make up for the loss of Wiliamson.
Safety Derwin James out for most of 2019 season
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| Derwin James photo courtesy: Associated Press |
Safety Derwin James will miss most of the 2019 season.
On Friday NFL Network reported that the 23-year-old had suffered a stress fracture in his fifth metatarsal and would undergo surgery. He is expected to be out three to four months.
The second year defensive back was drafted by the Chargers in the first round in 2018. He earned a Pro Bowl selection and first team all pro in just his first season and amassed 105 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 13 pass deflections and three interceptions.
The loss will push Desmond King and Rayshawn Jenkins into bigger roles this season.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers sign safety Darian Stewart
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| Darian Stewart photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Tuesday NFL Network reported that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were signing the 31-year-old.
The Pro Bowler was originally signed by the Rams as an undrafted rookie out of South Carolina in 2010. He spent four years in Los Angeles before signing with the Ravens in 2014. He spent one year in Baltimore before signing with the Broncos in 2015. He spent four years in Denver before being released this offseason.
In his nine year NFL career the Super Bowl 50 champion has amassed 454 tackles, five sacks, 45 pass deflections, 11 interceptions, six forced fumbles and one defensive touchdown.
Raiders cornerback Nevin Lawson suspended first four games of 2019 season
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| Nevin Lawson photo courtesy: Associated Press |
Cornerback Nevin Lawson will begin his 2019 season away from the Raiders.
On Monday ESPN reported that 28-year-old had been suspended for the first four games of the 2019 season for violation of league’s policy on performance enhancing drugs.
Lawson released a statement saying he tested positive ostarine though states he has never knowingly taken the drug which is banned by the league. This is the same anabolic substitute Titans offensive tackle Taylor Lewan recently tested positive and was suspended for. The drug is contained within 70 dietary supplements under other names so unintentional ingestion is possible.
Unfortunately for Lawson as well as Lewan, the responsibility falls on the player to know what they are taking and avoid ingesting any banned substances.
Lawson signed a one-year $3.05 million contract this offseason with Oakland. The veteran defensive back will be available to practice and play through the season but won’t be available to hit the field in the regular season until Week 5 against the Bears.
Sunday, August 11, 2019
Jets kicker Chandler Catanzaro retires from the NFL
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| Chandler Catanzaro photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Sunday the New York Jets announced that the 28-year-old had retired from the NFL.
Chandler was originally signed by the Cardinals as an undrafted rookie out of Clemson in 2014. He spent three years in Arizona before signing with the Jets in 2017. He spent one year in New York before signing with the Panthers in 2018. He was released by Carolina in November after missing two field goals in a loss versus Washington. He was signed by the Buccaneers in December following an injury to Graham Gano. He signed with the Jets this offseason but after struggling through training camp and preseason decided to walk away from the game.
In his five year NFL career Catanzo completed 128 of 142 field goals, 182 of 196 PATs and scored 539 points.
Saturday, August 10, 2019
Cleveland Browns wide receiver Antonio Callaway suspended first four games of 2019 season
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| Antonio Callaway photo courtesy: Associated Press |
Wide receiver Antonio Callaway will begin the 2019 season away from the Browns.
On Friday NFL Network reported that the 22-year-old was suspended the first four games of the 2019 season for violation of the league's substance abuse policy. The suspension was not related to a marijuana possession citation from last summer but rather a separate incident.
Shortly after the announcement Callaway released a statement taking responsibility for his actions and promising to be a better person moving forward. Browns general manager John Dorsey released a statement stating he and head coach Freddie Kitchens were disappointed in Callaway but offering their support.
Callaway fell to the Browns in the fourth round of last year's draft due in part to a diluted test at the Combine. He will be available to play when the Browns face the 49ers in Week 5.
Shortly after the announcement Callaway released a statement taking responsibility for his actions and promising to be a better person moving forward. Browns general manager John Dorsey released a statement stating he and head coach Freddie Kitchens were disappointed in Callaway but offering their support.
Callaway fell to the Browns in the fourth round of last year's draft due in part to a diluted test at the Combine. He will be available to play when the Browns face the 49ers in Week 5.
Friday, August 9, 2019
Lions wide receiver Jermaine Kearse out for the season with a broken leg
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| Jermaine Kearse photo courtesy: Associated Press |
Kearse was injured on Thursday during the Lions preseason game versus the Patriots while he was blocking on a run play for Ty Johnson The 29-year-old immediately went down with a gruesome leg injury that trainers quickly covered with a towel. Kearse had his leg immobilized in an air cast and was carted off the field. ESPN later reported that Kearse had suffered a broken leg and injury to his ankle.
The Super Bowl XLVIII champion was signed by the Seahawks as an undrafted rookie in 2012. He would go on to spend five years with the team before signing with the Jets in 2017. He would spend two years in New York before signing with Detroit this offseason.
The loss of Kearse leaves wide receivers Andy Jones and Chris Lacy competing for back up spots behind Marvin Jones Jr., Kenny Golloday and Danny Amendola.
Cowboys defensive end Robert Quinn suspended first two games of 2019 season
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| Robert Quinn photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Thursday ESPN reported that the 29-year-old had been suspended the first two games of the 2019 season for violation of the league's policy on performance enhancing drugs.
Quinn's agent, Sean Kiernan released a statement shortly after the announcement explaining that his client had tested positive for a steroid masking agent at minuscule levels due to a cross contamination at a pharmacy where Quinn gets his seizure medication filled. Despite providing evidence to this fact and the league believing the ingestion was not intentional, the NFL chose to suspend Quinn anyway. Kiernan railed against the league for their decision and for his client's treatment during the process.
Quinn had surgery to repair a broken hand and was set to be sidelined the first two games of the season even before the sentence was handed down.
The veteran defensive lineman will be available to play to play in Week 3 of the regular season against the Dolphins.
Kansas City Chiefs sign cornerback Morris Claiborne
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| Morris Claiborne photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Thursday NFL Network reported that the 29-year-old cornerback had signed a one-year $1.5 million contract with the Kansas City Chiefs with $1.5 million in incentives.
Now that he is under contract, Claiborne will be suspended the first four games of the regular season.
The veteran defensive back was drafted by the Cowboys in the first round in 2012. In his five injury plagued seasons with the Cowboys, Claiborne had 151 tackles, four fumble recoveries, and four interceptions and only played in 47 games out of a possible total of 80.
Claiborne signed with the Jets in 2017 where he would go on to play in 30 games over two seasons and amass 100 tackles, 22 passes defended and three interceptions.
Claiborne will be able to practice and play through preseason and training camp but won't be available to hit the field in the regular season until Week 5 against the Colts.
Running back Duke Johnson traded to Texans for conditional fourth round pick
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| Duke Johnson photo courtesy: Getty Images |
On Thursday ESPN reported that the 25-year-old was traded to the Houston Texans for a conditional fourth round pick in 2020. The pick could become a third rounder depending on Johnson's performance with the team.
Texans were in need of another running back in their backfield after releasing D'onta Foreman last week.
Johnson has spent the first four years of his NFL career with the Browns but wanted a trade after the team acquired Kareem Hunt this offseason to go along with second year running back Nick Chubb.
In his four year NFL career Johnson has amassed 299 rushes for 1,286 rushing yards along with 235 receptions for 2,170 receiving yards and 13 total touchdowns.
Monday, August 5, 2019
Wide receiver Jordy Nelson signs one-day contract to retire as a Green Bay Packer
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| Jordy Nelson photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Sunday ESPN reported that the 34-year-old was signing a one day contract with the Green Bay Packers to retire as a member of the team.
The veteran pass catcher was drafted in the second round out of Kansas State by the Packers in 2008. He would spend the first 10 years of his career in Green Bay before being released and signing with the Raiders last season.
In his 11 year NFL career the 6’3/217 pound Nelson was a Second Team All Pro, Comeback Player of the Year, NFL receiving touchdowns leader, a Pro Bowler and a Super Bowl Champion and amassed 613 receptions for 8,587 receiving yards and 72 receiving touchdowns along with 1,436 return yards.
While Nelson's career numbers won’t garner him a place in Canton, he will always be a legend in Green Bay.
Buffalo Bills offensive tackle LaAdrian Waddle out for the season with torn quad muscle
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| LaAdrian Waddle photo courtesy: Buffalo Bills |
Offensive tackle LaAdrian Waddle’s 2019 season is likely over.
On Sunday the 28-year-old was carted off the practice field with a leg injury. On Monday, ESPN reported that Waddle had suffered a torn quad muscle and was out for the season.
The 2x Super Bowl champion was originally signed by the Lions as an undrafted rookie out of Texas Tech in 2013. He would spend part of three seasons with the Lions before being released towards the end of the 2015 season.
Waddle signed a one-year contract with the Bills this offseason after spending the previous three seasons with the Patriots. In his six year NFL career the veteran offensive lineman has played in 61 games starting 31.
This was the fourth injury to the offensive line the Bills have suffered since the start of training camp.
Quarterback Tom Brady signs two year contract extension with New England Patriots
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| Tom Brady photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Sunday ESPN reported that the 42 year old signed a two year, $70 million contract extension with the Patriots. Brady will get $23 million in 2019, $30 million in 2020 and $32 million in 2021.
The 6x Super Bowl Champion and 4x Super Bowl MVP is also a 3x NFL MVP, 14x Pro Bowler, 3x First Team All Pro, 2x Offensive Player of the Year, 3x NFL passing yards leader, 4x NFL passing touchdowns leader and a 2x passer rating leader.
In his 19 year NFL career the future Hall of Famer has amassed 6,004 pass completions for 70,514 passing yards and 517 passing touchdowns along with 1,003 rushing yards and 19 rushing touchdowns.
The new deal locks Brady in with the Patriots through the 2021 season.
Houston Texans release running back D'Onta Foreman
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| D'Onta Foreman photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Sunday John McClain reported that the Texans released the 23-year-old due to his poor work habits and being late to team meetings.
Foreman was originally drafted in the third round by the Texans in 2017. While Foreman did return last season from a torn Achilles suffered in 2017 the young rusher was never able to beat out more consistent backs for the starting role due in part to his work ethic.
With concerns about the health of his Achilles and his work ethic working against him, it may take Foreman some time to find a new team willing to take a chance on him this season.
New England Patriots sign wide receiver Cameron Meredith
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| Cameron Meredith photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Friday ESPN reported that the 26 year old signed a one year deal with the Patriots.
Meredith was originally signed by the Bears as an undrafted rookie in 2015. He would spend three years with the team before being released and signing with the Saints in 2018.
In his four year NFL career the veteran pass catcher made 86 receptions for 1,122 receiving yards and five touchdowns.
Shortly after the signing Meredith was placed on the physically unable to perform list as he is still rehabbing a knee injury suffered in November.
Washington Redskins sign offensive tackle Donald Penn
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| Donald Penn photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Wednesday ESPN reported that the 36 year old signed a one year, $2.03 million contract with the Washington Redskins, including a $250,000 signing bonus and $250,000 guaranteed.
The veteran offensive lineman was originally signed by the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted rookie in 2006 where he was quickly released and signed by the Buccaneers where he would go on to play for eight seasons. The 3x Pro Bowler would sign with the Raiders in 2014 where he would spend the next five seasons before his release in March of this year.
In his 13 year NFL career the 6’4 315 pound Penn has played in 178 games, starting all but four and amassed six receptions for 26 yards and four receiving touchdowns.
Philadelphia Eagles sign safety Johnathan Cyprien
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| Johnathan Cyprien photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Friday NFL Network reported that the 29 year old signed a one year deal with the Eagles.
The veteran defensive back was originally drafted in the second round by the Jaguars in 2013. He spent three years in Jacksonville before signing with the Titans in 2017. After a torn ACL ended his 2018 season before it started, Cyprien spent all of 2018 on injured reserve. Tennessee released him in March of this year.
In his six year NFL career the 6 foot 223 pound Cyprien has started in 70 games and amassed 511 tackles, three sacks, four forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, two interceptions and 17 pass deflections.
Carolina Panthers sign safety Tre Boston
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| Tre Boston photo courtesy: Getty Images |
On Thursday the 27 year old signed a one year, $3 million contract with the Carolina Panthers.
Boston was originally drafted in the 4th round by the Panthers in 2014. He spent three years in Carolina before being released in 2017 and being signed by the Chargers. He spent one season in Los Angeles before signing with the Cardinals in 2018.
In his five year NFL career the 6’1/205 pound defensive back has amassed 266 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 27 pass deflections, 10 interceptions and 1 defensive touchdown.
Denver Broncos sign running back Theo Riddick
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| Theo Riddick photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Thursday NFL Network reported that the 28 year old signed a one year, $2.5 million contract with the Denver Broncos, including $1 million guaranteed.
The veteran rusher was originally drafted in the 6th round by the Lions in 2013 and would spent his first six seasons in the NFL with the team. In his six year NFL career the 5’10/201 pound back has played in 84 games, starting 19 and amassed 288 rushes for 1,023 rushing yards and 5 rushing touchdowns, along with 285 receptions for 2,238 receiving yards and 14 receiving touchdowns.
The signing gives the Broncos an overcrowded backfield with Phillip Lindsay, Devontae Booker and Royce Freeman already vying for a spot on the 53-man roster.
Center Ryan Kalil signs with New York Jets
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| Ryan Kalil photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Thursday ESPN reported that the 34 year old signed a one year, $8.4 million contract with the New York Jets.
The veteran offensive lineman retired from the NFL at the end of last season but after three months was ready to return to the league. The 6’2 300 pound Kalil was drafted in the second round by the Panthers in 2007 where he would spend his entire 12 year career. During that time he would play in 148 games, starting all but three and become a 1x Second Team All Pro, a 2x First Team All Pro and a 5x Pro Bowler.
He is a welcome addition to the Jets offensive line.
Wednesday, July 31, 2019
New Orleans Saints, wide receiver Michael Thomas agree to NFL record five-year, $100 million contract extension
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| Michael Thomas photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Wednesday ESPN reported that the 26-year-old wide receiver signed a 5 year, $100 million contract extension with the New Orleans Saints, including a $20 million signing bonus, $61 million guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $20 million.
The new deal makes Thomas the highest paid wide receiver in the NFL. He is also the first non-quarterback to sign a $100 million deal.
The veteran pass catcher has been Drew Brees top target since his arrival in New Orleans in 2016. Since that time Thomas has been a 2x Pro Bowler, a First Team All Pro and the 2018 NFL receptions leader and amassed 321 receptions for 3,787 receiving yards and 23 receiving touchdowns.
Thomas is now locked in with the Saints through the 2024 season.
Monday, July 29, 2019
Saints release wide receiver Cameron Meredith
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| Cameron Meredith photo courtesy: Getty Images |
On Monday ESPN reported that New Orleans released wide receiver Cameron Meredith. Meredith was looking to make a return from a devastating knee injury he suffered in 2017.
The 26-year-old signed a two-year deal $9.8 million deal in 2018, but agreed to a pay cut in March to remain with the team. The move was a surprise to Meredith who said the release was unexpected.
Meredith played in just six games last season for the Saints before being placed on injured reserve due to nagging soreness and swelling in his knee.
The veteran pass catcher hopes for an opportunity with another team. Meanwhile the Saints are still dealing with the holdout of star receiver Michael Thomas.
Sunday, July 28, 2019
Bengals wide receiver A.J. Green out six to eight weeks with ankle injury
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| A.J. Green photo courtesy: Associated Press |
On Sunday ESPN reported that wide receiver A.J. Green had suffered torn ligaments in his left ankle and would miss the next six to eight weeks.
The timetable means the veteran receiver will likely miss the season opener on September 8th.
Green went down during practice on Saturday and had to be carted off the field. While the extent of the injury wasn't as severe as initially speculated, the missed time will put pressure on Tyler Boyd and Josh Malone at the start of the season.
The 7x Pro Bowler missed seven games last season with a toe injury.
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