Category: Los Angeles Rams - LINDSEYYOK.COM

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

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

no-shows to kick off the offseason

4/20/2022

San Francisco 49ers quarterback (at least for now) Jimmy Garoppolo will be a no-show for the team's offseason program as he is rehabbing his shoulder off-site as he recovers from surgery. While the assumption is that he will be traded this offseason, the shoulder surgery has diminished some other teams' interest. So while his market is expected to pick back up as he recovers, the Niners should be turning to Trey Lance as their starter come September.

#49ers QB Jimmy Garoppolo has been rehabbing his throwing shoulder off-site, per his surgeon's instructions. Garoppolo and the team are on the same page with that continuing and he won't be there when their offseason conditioning program starts today, per me and @TomPelissero.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 19, 2022

Another no-go: Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray won't be in attendance at his team's offseason program. Murray has been pushing towards a new long-term deal with the team, deleting all traces of them from his social media in the process (the latest trend). Both sides have stated that they want to break ground on a new deal, but that has not happened. I think the Cardinals' inability to draft a QB that can start over Murray right now or trade for someone better than him will ultimately lead them to pay him eventually.

As the #AZCardinals begin their offseason conditioning today, QB Kyler Murray and many of the teams veterans will stay away and train on their own rather than attend the voluntary workouts, sources say. This has been communicated as the plan for several weeks.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 19, 2022

New Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson is attending the team's offseason program, as he showed up on Tuesday. Baker Mayfield, meanwhile, was a no-show, to no one's surprise. While Mayfield still wants to be traded, Watson could still face a lengthy suspension for the allegations of sexual assault on 22 women. And that's all I have to say about that.

As expected, Deshaun Watson reported for the #Browns offseason program today, but Baker Mayfield has not. Among other things, Mayfield is still rehabbing his left shoulder surgery
— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) April 19, 2022

Carolina Panthers offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo was asked (again) if Sam Darnold is the team's starting quarterback. While it is largely speculated that the team will draft a new QB or trade for a vet (a la Baker Mayfield), McAdoo said that Darnold is the team's (current) starter. So maybe for about another week.

Ben McAdoo asked if he looks at Sam Darnold as his starting quarterback didn't hesitate: "Yes.'' He later said he put his foot in his mouth naming a starter, saying, "That is something I shouldn't have said.''
— David Newton (@DNewtonespn) April 19, 2022

Tampa Bay Buccaneers GM Jason Licht spoke at a pre-draft presser on Tuesday, where he stated that just because they re-signed both of their running backs, Leonard Fournette and Giovanni Bernard, that didn't mean they wouldn't draft a back in this year's draft. While there likely will be no running backs taken in the first round (for the first year ever), Tampa isn't out of the question to take one later on.

Bucs GM Jason Licht said re-signing Leonard Fournette and Giovani Bernard wouldn't preclude them from drafting a running back. They've done a lot of homework at RB. Despite signing Logan Ryan, who can play nickel and safety, and Keanu Neal, he said they could still draft a safety
— JennaLaineESPN (@JennaLaineESPN) April 19, 2022

With Aaron Donald and Cooper Kupp up for extensions ASAP, Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay said the team have talked about both extensions. While one may be further along than the other, it's a no-brainer for both of these players to get PAID paid before someone else does it.

Sean McVay says “good dialogue” is ongoing on Aaron Donald, Cooper Kupp contracts as voluntary OTAs begin and reiterates that getting the two done are priorities for the team this spring. I *think* it would be fair to indicate that Donald further along than Kupp at the moment.
— Jourdan Rodrigue (@JourdanRodrigue) April 19, 2022

The Pittsburgh Steelers claimed wide receiver Miles Boykin off waivers from the Baltimore Ravens. Boykin, a third-round pick for Baltimore, was riddled with injuries throughout his career amid a crowded receiver room. Boykin will try to revive his career against his former team's biggest rival.

#Steelers claimed WR Miles Boykin off waivers from the #Ravens, sources say.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) April 19, 2022

Sean Payton said that if he were to coach in 2022, he would have stayed with the New Orleans Saints. I guesssss that means no truth to that rumor of the Tom Brady and Miami Dolphins rumor? Payton is expected to be on the media side of things at least for 2022.

Former Saints coach Sean Payton chatted with the media after his golf round, and before he was even asked a question, said he didn’t know anything about the Dolphins/Tom Brady reports. Said if he was interested in coaching in 2022 he would have stayed with Saints. https://t.co/0bEfJw8t4u
— Mike Triplett (@MikeTriplett) April 19, 2022

Rumors of San Francisco 49ers versatile wide receiver Deebo Samuel being involved in a trade have been swirling all offseason, and this just puts a pin in it. Samuel is reportedly the one who wants out, for various reasons.

“SF would pay Deebo Samuel today, tomorrow, the next day, it's not hard to figure out what the contract would
look like. This, I think is Deebo not wanting to get a deal done. The 49ers are ready, Deebo’s the one that's put a halt to everything for right now." — Schefter on ESPN
— Akash Anavarathan (@akashanav) April 19, 2022

Wide receiver Jarvis Landry is visiting the New Orleans Saints this week. Landry obviously wants to play for a contender.

Five-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Jarvis Landry is visiting the #Saints this week, per source. Should be there tomorrow. New Orleans has been looking for WR help for a while. #Browns still in the mix for Landry, too.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) April 19, 2022

God dammit tom

3/14/2022

With one of the shortest retirements in history, Tom Brady announced he is un-retiring and returning to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Just when we thought we were getting rid of this guy. I really have nothing more to say about this.

These past two months Iâ€™ve realized my place is still on the field and not in the stands. That time will come. But itâ€™s not now. I love my teammates, and I love my supportive family. They make it all possible. Iâ€™m coming back for my 23rd season in Tampa. Unfinished business LFG pic.twitter.com/U0yhRKVKVm
â€” Tom Brady (@TomBrady) March 13, 2022

The Houston Texans are shopping quarterback Deshaun Watson after he was not criminally charged on Friday (which, I'll remind you, does not mean he didn't do it). A handful of teams are interested in Watson, but two have so far made offers. After whiffing on Sam Darnold last offseason, the Carolina Panthers have been interested in Watson for a while. The New Orleans Saints are also looking for a new signal-caller, as Jameis Winston is slated to become a free agent.

The #Saints and #Panthers have made offers for #Texans QB Deshaun Watson and are likely to meet with him soon, sources tell me and @TomPelissero. Other teams also are involved. Watson has a no-trade clause and wants to meet with teams before formally waiving it anywhere.
â€” Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 13, 2022

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback married longtime girlfriend Brittany Matthews this weekend in a Hawaiian ceremony. Patrick's brother, Jackson, was the best man at the wedding. Others in attendance included Travis Kelce, Tyrann Mathieu, and his college coach, Kliff Kingsbury. Congrats to them and little Sterling!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Patrick Mahomes II (@patrickmahomes)

derek carr, pls.

2/16/2022

Is this desperation season for the Las Vegas Raiders? While last season, we weren't sure if Derek Carr would even remain their starter, this offseason, we're heading into the possibility of Carr getting top QB money. This is absurd. Carr didn't play horribly last season, don't get me wrong, but the underlying theme of his entire career is that he is incredibly inconsistent to the point where he doesn't always put his team in the best position to win. Which is what you want when you're paying a quarterback this type of money, no?

As it relates to Derek Carr and the @Raiders, the sense is no proposals have been exchanged yet on an extension. You'll see various numbers being thrown around, but, as I've been reporting, any extension would likely be in the $40m per season range.
— Vincent Bonsignore (@VinnyBonsignore) February 15, 2022

In the final episode of his podcast, Tom Brady says he's content with his decision to retire and that he'll take things "day by day." While many are speculating if he'll return to the game as the season looms closer, this quote kind of cements that he's not thinking about a return right now. But the conspiracy wheels will turn. Why hasn't he been placed on the Bucs' retirement list yet? I, personally, won't believe Brady has retired until he gives his Hall of Fame speech. And still, maybe not then.

Tom Brady, talking about his retirement on his @SiriusXMNFL podcast Monday night: "I'm super content and happy with how I feel in my decision. All you can do is take it day by day, nothing's promised for us ... The future is bright."
— Greg Auman (@gregauman) February 15, 2022

Of all people to understand what Odell Beckham Jr. was going through when he tore his ACL during the Super Bowl, it was his Los Angeles Rams teammate Robert Woods. Woods tore his ACL earlier in the 2021 NFL season and convinced Beckham to return to the sideline to cheer his team on to the win. Beckham should have surgery soon to repair the ACL before free agency begins in March.

From NFL Now: #Rams WR Odell Beckham Jr is expected to have surgery to repair his ACL in the coming days, but before all this... the compassion of Robert Woods in the halftime locker room led to a special moment. pic.twitter.com/FG92QjhgQQ
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 15, 2022

Joe Burrow's NFL career is off to a great start, with a trip to the Super Bowl in his first entire season under his belt. There is one huge concern, though: injuries. Burrow tore his ACL during his first season and suffered various injuries throughout this season. And they were all due to one thing - the lack of protection from the Cincinnati Bengals' offensive line. One former GM wonders if this could shorten Burrow's career, a la Andrew Luck. I think it's too early to speculate about those things, but if the Bengals don't tighten up their offensive line, Burrow might not make it through another season to see another Super Bowl.

Hall-Of-Fame executive Bill Polian hopes Joe Burrow doesn’t turn into the next Andrew Luck.

□ https://t.co/TGfKJWIm0d pic.twitter.com/krFfHiqVlJ
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 15, 2022

super bowl hangover

2/15/2022

We all know by now that the Los Angeles Rams have won Super Bowl LVI. The Cincinnati Bengals were able to hold the lead until that killer Matthew Stafford pass to Cooper Kupp. Just a brutal way to lose a Super Bowl. On the bright side, the Bengals are a great young team. They have Joe Burrow, obviously, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins on the cheap and the opportunity to bolster the offensive line and be right there next year. Burrow and the Bengals will be just fine.

Sorry we couldn’t get it done. Proud of our team and our fans. Love these guys
— Joey Burrow (@JoeyB) February 14, 2022

All wasn't great last night for the Rams, even after winning the Super Bowl. Star wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. was playing the best football of his career when he went down with a no-contact knee injury in the first half. It was confirmed on Monday that he is believed to have torn his ACL. Beckham tore the same ACL back in 2020 with the Cleveland Browns. OBJ, who is set to be a free agent in March, now faces the possibility of not being ready for the start of next season.

#Rams WR Odell Beckham Jr is believed to have torn his ACL in last night’s Super Bowl win, source said. That means a long road of recovery for the free agent, who has a challenge to be ready for 2022. Beckham had 2 catches for 52 yards, 1 TD and 1 moonwalk before the injury.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 14, 2022

This is a crazy stat.

Matt Stafford led the league with 17 picks this season.

It's the first time since 2007 (Eli Manning) and just the second time in the Super Bowl era that the QB with the most interceptions that season won it all. pic.twitter.com/zA3iwKane7
— NFL on CBS □ (@NFLonCBS) February 14, 2022

And, of course, the thing that everyone is talking about is this no-look pass from Stafford to win it all. This angle is insane.

No-look pic.twitter.com/35SYdEddhU
— Josh Cohen (@JCohen_NFL) February 14, 2022

THE DROP-BACK: Wednesday 08/04 - Stafford is tough tough

8/4/2021

rams

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford is taking it easy after banging his thumb on a helmet following Monday's practice. The original thought was that he would miss a few days even though his x-rays were negative, but Stafford was out on the field doing some light work during Tuesday's practice. Peep the bandage on his thumb. Brace yourselves for reports of him being "so tough."

Rams QB Matthew Stafford warming up throwing to the end zone. There’s a small bandage on his right thumb after his hand collided with a helmet yesterday. pic.twitter.com/f0RuBondC6
— Lindsey Thiry (@LindseyThiry) August 3, 2021

dolphins

Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa hopes that jump in Year 2 sets his career rolling a la Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen. Whether he does that or not has yet to be seen, but his teammates seem to be on board. Safety Eric Rowe said, "I just believe it's that year-two jump that everyone needs to make from their rookie year... Now seeing training camp, a lot more deep routes, they're allowing him the opportunity to throw it deep."

vikings

While the rest of the Minnesota Vikings quarterbacks are on the COVID-19 list, Jake Browning, a practice squad guy, is prepared to take advantage of his opportunity. "I've been preparing like that for two years, so the opportunity presented itself. I felt like I was ready."

bears

I mentioned yesterday that Chicago Bears rookie quarterback Justin Fields was highly professional during his presser, something guys can struggle with during their first year. He was super honest and forthcoming in explaining how he's been preparing, and mentioned that having two 10-year QBs in Andy Dalton and Nick Foles only helps him get better. So I'm here to gush about him some more. "I'm constantly growing," he said. "A lot of people are anxious to see me play, but greatness doesn't happen overnight." Food for thought.

broncos

The Denver Broncos are still trying to decide who will start at quarterback for the season. Teddy Bridgewater and Drew Lock are still neck-and-neck for the position, but offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur says he's seeing a push from both. I think it would be more beneficial if one was better than the other, but what do I know?

Does OC Pat Shurmur see separation between Lock/Teddy B? "I've seen both guys getting better. This is the best version of Drew I've seen. He's done a really good job. And I expected Teddy to come in ... Teddy's got experience, he's got experience in multiple offenses." #9sports
— MikeKlis (@mikeklis) August 3, 2021

colts

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Carson Wentz had surgery on Tuesday for a foot injury that's apparently been plaguing him for years. While he has to sit out anywhere from one month to three, the good news is, it's one and done. There are no other concerns with Wentz's foot, and it's onto recovery followed by the rehab process.

ravens

The Baltimore Ravens expect their starting quarterback Lamar Jackson to be off the COVID-19 list this weekend after testing positive for the second time in less than a year. To make things seem better and to get the heat off of the anti-vaxxer, Harbaugh mentioned that the backup QBs are getting a ton of reps and are getting better. "The fact that those two guys have gotten those reps, they've had to deal with all these pressures, all these blitzes, they've been in there with the ones and twos. It's got to be good for us from a depth standpoint, developing those guys." Well yeah, but it really doesn't help if your starter isn't getting reps with the wide receiver group that he desperately needs to practice with.

steelers

I feel like every year, we're thinking, "Is this the year when Ben Roethlisberger is outta here," and we never really get our wish. While it's been widely speculated that 2021 could either be it for Roethlisberger in a Pittsburgh Steelers uniform or in an NFL uniform in general, the team is saying that they haven't ruled out a return in 2022. "It's not written in stone that this is his last year," owner Art Rooney II said.

Speaking of Steelers quarterbacks, reports from Pittsburgh have been very complimentary on former Washington QB Dwayne Haskins. Head coach Mike Tomlin has been very favorable of Haskins as well.