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gronk retires (again)

6/22/2022

Legendary tight end Rob Gronkowski announced his retirement for the second time on Tuesday. The first time happened two seasons ago, and a Super Bowl ring came out of it. The person who coaxed him out of retirement was none other than Tom Brady, who recently un-retired himself. Could it happen again? That remains a mystery, but at least for now, Gronk will be in the Hall of Fame in five years.

pic.twitter.com/QCMmVkihcs
— Rob Gronkowski (@RobGronkowski) June 21, 2022

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With the Tampa Bay Buccaneers out of the picture to re-sign him, defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh says he's still interested in playing football at age 35. Suh tweeted on Tuesday that the Las Vegas Raiders could be fun. With six sacks last season, he was able to be productive and take on a lesser role simultaneously.

Raiders could be fun https://t.co/WfZZbWQf9P
— Ndamukong Suh (@NdamukongSuh) June 21, 2022

The Pittsburgh Steelers signed defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi to a one-year deal on Tuesday, following a visit. Ogunjobi failed a physical earlier this offseason with the Chicago Bears, voiding his three-year, $40.5 million contract they had previously agreed on. The Steelers needed help at that position following Stephon Tuitt's surprise exit. This is a total Steelers move, a possible bargain this deep in free agency, and the quick visit shows that they can't be that concerned with the injury that plagued his previous commitment.

Former Bengals’ DT Larry Ogunjobi has signed a one-year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers, per source.

Ogunjobi now will have played for the Browns, Bengals and Steelers, leaving the Ravens as the lone Ogunjobi-less AFC North team.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 21, 2022

Los Angeles Rams cornerback Jalen Ramsey underwent shoulder surgery on Tuesday, as he posted on Twitter. Ramsey played though injuries all last season, was awarded with a Super Bowl ring, and should be ready for next season. (And doesn't have to go do training camp... always a win.)

#Rams All-Pro CB Jalen Ramsey had surgery on his shoulder today, source said. He played all last season with tears in both shoulders… and he should be ready before the start of the season. https://t.co/KnrgYNbayX
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 22, 2022

baker.. to carolina?

6/15/2022

Is Baker Mayfield to the Carolina Panthers finally going to happen? Reports suggest simply seeing both Sam Darnold and Matt Corral in minicamp is not enough. Throughout this whole fiasco, reports remain set on the fact that Mayfield's next destination is fully dependent on the cost and how much salary the Cleveland Browns are willing to eat to get rid of him. Should Mayfield be Carolina's starter in 2022, it would make sense to get him there as soon as possible so he can get familiar with the system. That's why they're kind of eager to do it now.

While there are many mixed opinions on Mayfield's skill set and ability to be a starting quarterback in the NFL, he's a definite upgrade over Darnold. If Corral is in the Panthers' future, Mayfield could be the QB who can fill in for the time being until he is ready.

There's urgency on Carolina's side to execute the deal soon so Mayfield can get some time in minicamp with the Panthers. For the Browns, it's the best offer they have. Talks ongoing.
— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) June 14, 2022

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Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy said on Tuesday he hopes quarterback Dak Prescott will have more opportunities to be a runner in 2022. However, as Prescott was coming off a bad injury in 2021, the team was cautious with using him in different roles. As a result, Prescott has never really been used as a running quarterback. Still, with a total bill of health and a solid offensive line, it'll be interesting to see how this changes the Cowboys' offense in 2022.

Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy said he hopes QB Dak Prescott will have more designed runs/scrambles/movement throws in 2022, now that he’s a full season removed from ankle injury. “We tried to be smart when we used him” last year. Has impressed in the spring. pic.twitter.com/VBu9Appj67
— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) June 14, 2022

Trade rumors have been swirling around Chicago Bears pass rusher Robert Quinn all offseason. There likely will be more, as he is not expected to attend the team's mandatory minicamp. Instead, Quinn has elected to continue working out and preparing for the season away from the team. Quinn likely wants a new deal, as he's coming off an 18.5 sack season.

Sources: #Bears star pass-rusher Robert Quinn is not expected to be present for the team’s mandatory minicamp that begins today. Quinn is away from the team training on his own.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 14, 2022

a new deal for hunter renfrow

6/13/2022

On Friday, the Las Vegas Raiders signed wide receiver Hunter Renfrow to a new two-year, $32 million extension. Included in the deal is a $21 million guarantee. Renfrow is coming off his best season, including a team-high nine touchdown receptions. With a true WR1 in Davante Adams in town, Renfrow is a solid WR2 and has a solid rapport with quarterback Derek Carr.

Raiders signing WR Hunter Renfrow to 2-year, $32 million extension including $21 million guaranteed. (via @TomPelissero + @RapSheet) pic.twitter.com/72b4Vhei66
— NFL (@NFL) June 10, 2022

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Los Angeles Chargers owner Dean Spanos is being sued by his own sister, Dea Spanos Berberian (wait - Dean and Dea? Really), for misogynistic behavior and breaches of fiduciary duty. I am not entirely sure what that means, but basically, the sister (Dea) wants sole control of the team.

Chargers’ owner Dean Spanos is being sued by his sister, Dea Spanos Berberian, for alleged misogynistic behavior and repeated breaches of fiduciary duty, per me and @ByKimberleyA. Lawsuit was filed today in California and calls for Dean Spanos to be removed as a co-trustee. pic.twitter.com/EYYMAnUjJv
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 10, 2022

The Washington Commanders will screw this one up, aren't they? I can see it from a mile away. The Washington Post reports that star wide receiver (and probably the best player they've had in a very long time) Terry McLaurin and the team are still far apart as far as extension talks go. In addition, McLaurin is in the midst of a contract year and is therefore prepared to not show up for the team's mandatory minicamp.

Talks between Commanders & Terry McLaurin’s reps have continued, per sources. While there’s been some progress, they’re still far apart and, as of now (things may change), McLaurin seems unlikely to show for minicamp. He returned to Fla. today to resume training for the season.
— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) June 12, 2022

JPP visited Ravens as they look for pass rush help

6/10/2022

Free agent pass rusher Jason Pierre-Paul visited with the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday, as they look for help in that department. JPP is currently recovering from shoulder surgery, due to a lingering injury that lasted the entire 2021 season. It's unclear whether Pierre-Paul will be ready in time for training camp.

Three-time Pro Bowl pass rusher Jason Pierre-Paul is visiting the #Ravens today, per source.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) June 9, 2022

Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell told reporters on Thursday that he doesn't expect Jameson Williams to be ready to return to the field by training camp this summer. The first-round wide receiver tore his ACL in January, so it could be some time before he's cleared for contact. The Lions remain hopeful that he could return during his rookie year, but it seems that will happen later rather than sooner.

Dan Campbell "hopeful," but doesn't see Jameson Williams being ready for training camp. https://t.co/g7Nflh6JOh
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) June 9, 2022

Although he's a recent Super Bowl champion, free-agent wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. is still looking for a new home. But it likely won't be with his old team, the Cleveland Browns. So while the Browns are still looking for receivers to complement recent offseason addition of Amari Cooper, it probably won't be OBJ.

Odell Beckham Jr. returning to #Browns is unlikely, per source, but John Johnson III took a "shot in dark" anyway. @iamjohnthethird laughed today about his comment from March and explained the intent: "That was me recruiting." https://t.co/q3laakj3hs
— Nate Ulrich (@ByNateUlrich) June 9, 2022

While it seems like he's been injured forever, New Orleans Saints head coach Dennis Allen said we'll still have to wait a while to see wide receiver Michael Thomas on the field. While a report stated in May that things were heading in the right direction, Thomas is expected to be still sidelined at the team's minicamp.

Michael Thomas is “doubtful” as far as participation goes for next week at minicamp, Dennis Allen says.
— Amie Just (@Amie_Just) June 9, 2022

dk metcalf a no-show at seahawks minicamp

6/9/2022

According to several reports, Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf was not present at the team's mandatory minicamp this week. Metcalf is currently in the Los Angeles area rehabbing from offseason foot surgery, but his absence is unexcused, costing him more than $90,000 in fines.

Metcalf is in the last season of his current rookie deal, with only a $4.3 million cap hit. Translation: WAY less than what he's worth, and he knows it. The Seahawks have reiterated that getting a new deal done with Metcalf is a priority, but talks between sides are currently at a standstill. Additionally, with the recent departures of both Russell Wilson and Bobby Wagner (two of the faces of the franchise), it makes you wonder if Seattle wants to go into Full Rebuild Mode and deal Metcalf for draft picks.

While both sides seem confident they will reach a deal before the 2022 season begins, this is something to monitor closely.

Can confirm D.K. Metcalf's absence from Seahawks camp is unexcused, per source. Subject to fines of up to $93K over three-day camp. Seattle has maintained that it wants to extend Metcalf but no major traction on that front yet.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) June 7, 2022

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The Cleveland Browns and quarterback Baker Mayfield have mutually decided that he will be excused from the team's mandatory minicamp. Mayfield has stated all offseason that he wants to move on, and Cleveland made the move to acquire the disgrace that is Deshaun Watson. However, even with a decision on a suspension up in the air, hell will likely freeze over before Mayfield puts on a Browns jersey again.

The Browns and QB Baker Mayfield have decided that he will be excused from minicamp next week, per sources.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) June 8, 2022

OBJ back in Cleveland?

6/8/2022

We all know the history between the Cleveland Browns and Odell Beckham Jr. (and his dad). The common denominator amongst that drams was quarterback Baker Mayfield, and now that it looks like Mayfield will not be a Brown come 2022, is there a chance Beckham could return to Cleveland? It's not such a crazy idea, according to reports stating that the team has discussed his return. Beckham also has had interest from the New Orleans Saints and his most recent team, the Los Angeles Rams.

Odell Beckham Jr. Being Recruited By Multiple Players And Teams – ⁦@Outkick⁩ https://t.co/twnU3ZIOUO
— Armando Salguero (@ArmandoSalguero) June 6, 2022

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After a drama-filled offseason, San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel was present at the team's minicamp on Tuesday. His attendance likely points to an extension on the way (or he just doesn't want to get fined), as the Niners would be wise to lock up their best player.

Source: #49ers star WR Deebo Samuel is expected to attend mini camp starting today.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 7, 2022

Tennessee Titans rookie wide receiver Treylon Burks has been dealing with conditioning and breathing issues since rookie minicamp and as early as pre-draft workouts. Receivers coach Rob Moore said it was nothing more than a bit of asthma, which he's been working through.

#Titans WR coach Rob Moore says he's found a lot of positive in Treylon Burks. Hinted at Burks dealing with asthma as part of his setback early. pic.twitter.com/4yZFNQFdde
— TURRON DAVENPORT (@TDavenport_NFL) June 7, 2022

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Leonard Fournette may be the latest RB to be a victim of the Eddie Lacy Curse. Fournette showed up a little bulkier than normal, which (as I mentioned when this happened to Najee Harris), is common for a lot of players and they should slim down come training camp.

RB Leonard Fournette made his first appearance in the off-season and seemed to be a little heavy and struggled some in the heat, dropping a few passes. But Bowles said he looked fine, especially considering he hasn’t been here in their off-season.
— Rick Stroud (@NFLSTROUD) June 7, 2022

Green Bay Packers running back Allen Lazard was absent from the team's minicamp as of Tuesday. Lazard, who was given a second-round tender by the team this offseason is likely looking for a better deal.

LaFleur said "everyone who is currently signed on our roster is here" and will take part in the mandatory minicamp at some level (whether it's practice or rehab).

WR Alan Lazard, however, is not here. He has not signed his RFA tender and thus isn't required to be. https://t.co/4KZimAP6U8
— Rob Demovsky (@RobDemovsky) June 7, 2022

Another no-show: Seattle Seahawks star wide receiver DK Metcalf is not present at the team's minicamp, as he is actively seeking a new contract. Metcalf is also rehabbing from foot surgery in Los Angeles, but both sides have made it public that they are inching toward a hefty extension for one of the best in the game.

Sources: #Seahawks star WR DK Metcalf is not present for mandatory minicamp, as contract talks have not yet resulted in a new deal. He continues to rehab his injury in LA.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 7, 2022

Rams make Donald highest-paid Non-QB in NFL HIstory

6/6/2022

As soon as the confetti fell from the ceiling, rumors began swirling that legendary defensive tackle Aaron Donald was mulling retirement. However, with thoughts of 'going on top' on his mind, Donald ultimately decided to return to where he won a Lombardi. Famously known for creating the 'Dream Team,' the Los Angeles Rams are preparing to do the same this season with Donald, pushing an extra $40 million his way over the next few seasons. With a grand total of $95 million through 2024, Donald is now the highest-paid non-quarterback.

Sources: The #Rams have re-worked All-World DT Aaron Donald’s 3 remaining contract years to give him a massive $40M raise through 2024, making him the highest paid non-QB in NFL history at 31 years old. He gets $95M(!) through 2024. pic.twitter.com/SoDRw4GHE4
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 6, 2022

OLIPOP - Take the First Sip

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The Denver Broncos have officially sold to Walmart heir Robert Walton for $4.5 billion, making it the most expensive team sale in American sports history. The official deal is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Rob Walton, an heir to the Walmart fortune, will win the bidding for the Denver Broncos at about $4.5 billion, several sports bankers told Forbes. The winning bid is expected to be announced as early as this month. https://t.co/S7VZq83h3T
— Forbes (@Forbes) June 6, 2022

Dallas Cowboys tight end Dalton Schultz isn't thrilled with how his contract talks are going with his team after being franchise-tagged this offseason. Schultz is said to be refusing to attend further Cowboys OTAs, and new reports even suggest an absence from mandatory minicamps. Dallas has until July 15 to strike up a deal with Schultz, the team's top tight end, and will otherwise make $10.931 million in 2022 if an agreement isn't reached. These talks likely stalled by Cleveland Browns TE David Njoku signing a massive four-year, $56.7 million extension last month.

Frustrated by the state of contract talks, #Cowboys franchise-tagged TE Dalton Schultz informed the team he won’t attend the rest of voluntary OTAs, per sources.

Schultz already signed his franchise tender, locking in a $10.931 million salary for 2022 if no deal by July 15.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) June 6, 2022

Former NFL head coach and defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel announced his retirement on Monday. The Houston Texans have employed Crennel since 2014, where he served as their defensive coordinator and, most recently, senior advisor for football performance. Crennel additionally won three Super Bowls with the New England Patriots. Not a bad career, indeed.

50 years of coaching in the books.

Congrats on your retirement, Romeo □
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) June 6, 2022

OLIPOP - A New Kind of Soda

Denver Broncos wide receiver Jerry Jeudy left Monday's practice with a limp and later explained to reporters that his groin was bothering him. Jeudy later returned to practice to watch (in sweatpants), which is good. It's June, so there's plenty of time before we hit the panic button on Russell Wilson's new favorite receiver.

Broncos WR Jerry Jeudy just walked off the field and went inside. He was somewhat upset, he said his groin is bothering him. Looks like he’s done for the day.
— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) June 6, 2022

Arizona Cardinals wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins tore his MCL in Week 14 in 2021 but should be good to go for training camp, according to head coach Kliff Kingsbury. Though Hopkins should be healthy by the beginning of the season, he is still subject to the six-game suspension for PED use.

Kliff Kingsbury said DeAndre Hopkins will be “full go” for training camp. He’s been rehabbing his knee off to the side during OTAs.
— Josh Weinfuss (@joshweinfuss) June 6, 2022

could this be it for aaron donald?

6/1/2022

Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald has done a lot in his career. Along with his recent Super Bowl trophy, Donald has stacked up three Defensive Player of the Year awards, seven All-Pro nods, and has been a Pro Bowler in all of his eight seasons in the NFL. But, at 31, Donald is in the midst of contract talks with his team and isn't shying away from the retirement talk.

As a guest on the 'I Am Athlete' podcast, Donald explained his decision to contemplate walking away from the game he loves. What's super interesting to me; is Donald said he went into the NFL expecting to play eight seasons. Now that his eighth season is up -- what's next? While many signs point to a deal getting worked out between Donald and the Rams, it's not going to be under his current contract. So, how long will we continue seeing Donald in an NFL uniform?

Aaron Donald is at peace with retiring if a new contract with the Rams doesn't get worked out.

(via @IAMATHLETEpod) pic.twitter.com/IxWiDzhqMu
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) May 30, 2022

You can watch the full episode here:

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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed veteran defensive lineman Akiem Hicks to a one-year contract worth up to $10 million. Quite a big signing for a player who has only a year or two left in the tank. The past three seasons have not been kind to Hicks as far as injuries go, but Hicks may get the chance to ride with a contender in his go-around in the NFL.

Former Bears’ DL Akiem Hicks reached agreement today on a one-year deal worth up to $10 million with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, per source. Deal negotiated by Bucs’ exec Mike Greenberg and agents @DrewJRosenhaus and @RyanMatha.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 31, 2022

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris is heading into his second season 14 pounds heavier than his listed weight of 230. Eddie Lacy 2.0? Not so fast. Most players gain weight during the offseason in preparation for the workload of training camp and the upcoming season—no need to panic.

Najee Harris weighs 244. Look out NFL
— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly) May 31, 2022

Speaking of panicking... Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur told reporters that left tackle David Bakhtiari would "hopefully" be ready by training camp. -record scratch - "Hopefully?" Bakhtiari seems to still be recovering from that knee injury he sustained in 2020, which kept him out for the entirety of 2021. The team has been saying they don't think this knee injury is a long-term problem or a career-ender, but it crosses into "we're concerned" territory if he's not ready by next month.

Matt LaFleur on David Bakhtiari not on the field for OTAs:

"Our plan all along was to hold him from this and get strong and hopefully be ready to go for training camp."
— Rob Demovsky (@RobDemovsky) May 31, 2022

All charges against Denver Broncos wide receiver Jerry Jeudy were dropped after being arrested for second-degree domestic tampering in May. The woman involved in the case said she didn't consider Jeudy a threat. However, Jeudy was seen on the Broncos' practice field on Tuesday.

DA files motion to dismiss charge against Broncos WR Jerry Jeudy https://t.co/EGIGtjgZX2 via @9NEWS #9sports
— Mike Klis (@mikeklis) May 31, 2022

a new home for james bradberry

5/19/2022

Cornerback James Bradberry signed a one-year, $10 million contract with the Philadelphia Eagles. Bradberry and Darius Slay will team up at the position. Bradberry is coming off of a down year in 2021, but if he can get back to his 2020 form, the Eagles will be difficult to pass against this season.

Sources: Former #Giants Pro Bowl CB James Bradberry has agreed to terms with the #Eagles on a 1-year deal for $10M. A big-time post-draft addition, as Bradberry lands in a perfect spot.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 18, 2022

After undergoing knee surgery in the offseason, Los Angeles Rams tight end Tyler Higbee is recovering. He missed the Super Bowl due to a sprained MCL sustained during the NFC title game. Despite some light on-field activity this spring, Higbee's rehab process is ongoing and is expected to be ready for the 2022 season.

Higbee also said he did have surgery, FWIW. Says he’s in a good place now. https://t.co/7TMjQmxhvG
— Jourdan Rodrigue (@JourdanRodrigue) May 17, 2022

drew brees: not back

5/18/2022

Drew Brees is not seriously considering returning to the NFL, according to Ed Werder. Werder confirmed Brees recently had surgery on his left shoulder and won't be able to play until September or October. However, it's expected that Brees is expected to remain retired, and Jameis Winston will be leading the New Orleans Saints' offense in Week One.

Knowing Drew Brees over the years, I do not take seriously his recent social media posts about unretiring to play QB in the #NFL. For one thing, he had left shoulder surgery two weeks ago and would be physically unable to play until at least September or October, per a source.
— Ed Werder (@WerderEdESPN) May 17, 2022

Treylon Burks signed a four-year, $14.36 million contract with the Tennessee Titans. Burks was taken with the No. 18 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft and is expected to be the replacement for wide receiver AJ Brown.

The Titans and first round WR Treylon Burks have agreed to terms on his 4-year, $14,369,590 fully guaranteed contract with a fifth-year team option.

Rookie contracts coming together quickly.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) May 17, 2022

Tarik Cohen, an unsigned free agent running back, injured himself during a workout he broadcast live on Instagram. After a pop that can be heard during the video, many speculate that it is a torn Achilles. In March, Cohen was released by the Chicago Bears and has been trying to find a new team after a torn ACL in 2020 forced him to miss the entire 2021 season.

Free agent RB Tarik Cohen appears to have suffered a serious lower-leg injury during a workout streaming on IG Live. He’s been training for his comeback from a serious knee injury suffered in the 2020 season.
— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) May 17, 2022