Category: San Francisco 49ers - LINDSEYYOK.COM

The Panthers are the latest team to get new helmets

7/20/2022

The Carolina Panthers are the latest team to hop on the 'alternate helmet' train. The team unveiled matte black helmets, which they will pair with their alternate black uniforms, to be worn throughout the season.

Panthers’ new black alternative helmets that occasionally will be worn this season (□ @Panthers): pic.twitter.com/f6XzRE0fbn
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 19, 2022

The NFL recently tweaked their strict (and stupid) uniform rules, allowing teams to wear a second helmet along with alternate uniforms. Other teams will be wearing classic uniforms.

This particular uniform combo will be worn against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 10.

more top stories:

The New Orleans Saints are trying out USFL 2022 Offensive MVP Darius Butler. The running back previously spent time with the Saints in 2017, but never played in a game.

The Saints intend to work out RB Darius Victor, per source. He was with Saints before and was the USFL offensive MVP
— Nick Underhill (@nick_underhill) July 19, 2022

New York Jets running back Breece Hall was the last to sign his rookie deal, signing it just in time for training camp to begin. Hall is expected to be a large part of the 2022 Jets offense.

#Jets second-round RB Breece Hall, who has been in the building all morning, is expected to sign his four-year rookie contract in time for rookies to report today, source said. Their last pick to sign.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 19, 2022

Atlanta Falcons QB Desmond Ridder signed his four-year, $5.36 million contract ahead of the start of training camp on Tuesday. While Marcus Mariota is the presumed starter as of now, I'm expecting a good old-fashioned QB Competition down in Atlanta during this summer's training camp.

Falcons QB Desmond Ridder has agreed to his 4-year rookie deal with $5,362,962 and includes a $1,080,336 signing bonus.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) July 19, 2022

Are things looking up for Deebo Samuel the San Francisco 49ers? Tons of drama has ensued this offseason from this question after an All-Pro season, but if Samuel's trainer is correct in this statement, it appears he'll be sticking around in San Fran.

“He about to get paid” — Deebo Samuel’s trainer, with Deebo Samuel standing right next to him.

Yet another indication that Samuel’s contractual status with the 49ers is headed in a very positive direction https://t.co/yaSkGUbFAH
— David Lombardi (@LombardiHimself) July 19, 2022

San Francisco 49ers quarterback (for now) Jimmy Garoppolo has quietly been throwing since the first week of July, but likely will not be medically cleared for another three weeks (which means, confidence in throwing multiple times in a game).

From @NFLTotalAccess: #49ers QB Jimmy Garoppolo recently saw Dr. Neal ElAttrache for a checkup and is progressing well. SF is thrilled with where he is physically, sources say. The expectation is he’ll be fully cleared around mid-August. Perhaps then we'll know his destination. pic.twitter.com/ysep8agDwl
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 19, 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

more:

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

the latest on deebo samuel

4/26/2022

General manager John Lynch reiterated again that the San Francisco 49ers have no interest at moving wide receiver Deebo Samuel. The Niners don't want to move him, but Samuel has requested a trade and clearly wants out of San Francisco. Samuel has one year left on his rookie deal, so this is a situation that will be closely monitored. I'm in the club of 'everyone is tradeable for the right price.'

Lynch now saying he can’t imagine a scenario where they let Deebo Samuel go. Too good of a player. Also praised him as a person, too, noting he interacts with fans before games. https://t.co/09mo442IVQ
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) April 25, 2022

While many have assumed Baker Mayfield would be traded by now, the first-round quarterback is still on the Cleveland Browns' roster, and their asking price may go down post-draft. The Carolina Panthers, who are slated to pick at No. 6, could further pursue Mayfield if they don't take a QB with that pick. The Seattle Seahawks have also been a team linked to Mayfield.

From NFL Now (in Las Vegas): The #Panthers aren't trading for QB Baker Mayfield, at least not before Thursday. Which opens up a ton of questions... pic.twitter.com/3Lq1RHaWLM
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 25, 2022

The New York Giants are looking to trade wide receiver Kadarius Toney unless they aren't. While reports have floated over the past week of a desire to trade him, New York may not be shopping him; just listening to offers. And they want something substantial in his return. So while Toney has not reported to offseason workouts, has been plagued by injuries, and has no real ties to head coach Brian Daboll, a trade for Toney will likely not happen before the Draft later this week. UPDATE: Toney was present at the Giants' facility for workouts on Monday.

Spoke to a bunch of sources around the league about second-year WR Kadarius Toney over the weekend. Giants view him as a valuable asset. Would want a significant return. Makes it seem right now the likelihood is he does not get moved.#giants #nfl #NFLDraft2022
— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) April 25, 2022

The hearing for New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara has been pushed back until August. Kamara is being charged with a felony regarding an incident the night before this year's Pro Bowl. The NFL could potentially fine or suspend Kamara for the incident, but they are expected to wait until the trial is over.

Hearing in Alvin Kamara case moved to August. https://t.co/MeTWHtHKDt
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) April 25, 2022

The 49ers picked up edge rusher Nick Bosa's fifth-year option. Bosa, the second-overall pick in 2019's draft, has been one of the top ten edge rushers the entirety of his career thus far. I'd expect the Niners to want to work out a long-term deal with him sometime in the near future.

49ers picked up Nick Bosa's fifth-year option today, not there ever was a doubt about that.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 25, 2022

49ers right tackle Mike McGlinchey tore his quad in Week 9, but expects to be ready to go by training camp. The Niners picked up McGlinchey's fifth-year option so he's under contract through this season.

#49ers RT Mike McGlinchey, who tore his quadriceps in November, said he expects to be able to participate in training camp.
— Eric Branch (@Eric_Branch) April 25, 2022

Baltimore Ravens offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley missed six games of the 2020 season with an ankle injury before declaring himself ready for 2021. Fast forward to Week 2, and he was out for the season with the same injury. Stanley is said to be on pace to be ready for the 2022 season, let's just hope it works out this time.

#Ravens All-Pro OT Ronnie Stanley received a medical check-up recently and he’s on pace to be ready for 2022, sources say. Stanley played just one game last year then had another ankle surgery. He’ll be monitored throughout the summer, but there is optimistic he’ll be good to go.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 25, 2022

Draft trades are starting to roll in. The New England Patriots dealt a fifth-round pick to the Houston Texans for their sixth and seventh-round picks.

Trade: Patriots dealt their fifth-round pick to the Texans for their sixth- and seventh-round picks, per sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 25, 2022

49ers running back Elijah Mitchell had once of those elusive "clean up knee procedures" after the 2021 season. He missed some practice time and a handful of games in 2021 due to knee problems but should be ready for 2022 training camp.

#49ers RB Elijah Mitchell was playing hurt toward at the end of the season. He said he required a clean-up procedure on his knee.
— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoNBCS) April 25, 2022

April 23rd, 2022

4/23/2022

Seven-time Pro Bowl safety Earl Thomas wants to revive his NFL career. Thomas last played for the Baltimore Ravens and was released in 2020 for conduct detrimental to the team. Thomas went through a domestic violence issue (which, I'm not going to get into the details, was WILD) and reportedly fought with teammates during training camp. At age 33, Thomas might have something left in the tank, but it remains whether a team will take a chance on him given his past issues.

Former seven-time Pro-Bowl safety Earl Thomas, who last played for Baltimore in 2019 and who turns 33 in May, said today that he wants to resume his NFL career this season. “I’m ready,” Thomas texted. “I’m in shape. My timing is on point - I’m proud of that.”
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 22, 2022

The Jacksonville Jaguars (once again) have the number one pick in this year's NFL Draft. While most have Aidan Hutchinson as going number one, the team says they're between four players at the moment for their first choice. General manager Trent Baalke also added that he had not fielded any calls from teams wanting to trade up to the top spot.

Jaguars GM Trent Baalke later says they have 4 players in consideration for the No.1 overall pick. He won’t reveal who or what positions. Gotta figure Aiden Hutchinson, Travon Walker & at least one of OTs are among the group.
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) April 22, 2022

Wide receiver Deebo Samuel and the San Francisco 49ers are at a standstill as a contract goes. But, it turns out, Samuel doesn't want a new deal from the team; he just wants out. The 49ers insist they have no intention of trading him, but this is something worth keeping an eye on.

"From my understanding Deebo Samuel basically told the 49ers I want to be traded & don't make an offer.. I don't think this is about the money" ~@RapSheet #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/V6Nc0Vwveu
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) April 22, 2022

Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard spoke with reporters this week and was asked about the status of wide receiver T.Y. Hilton. Hilton is currently a free agent and hinted that he wasn't interested in retiring at this time. So could a return to the Colts be possible despite little to no interest from other teams? Ballard says he thinks Hilton can still play but didn't confirm or deny that the team has interest.

Chis Ballard said they’ll still have some talks with T.Y. Hilton. Ballard has texted with him this week and thinks Hilton can still play.
— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) April 22, 2022

"zero chance"

4/22/2022

Arizona Cardinals general manager Steve Keim was asked on Thursday about the possibility of trading star quarterback Kyler Murray, to which he responded, "zero chance." Murray and the Cardinals have been going through a ton of drama this offseason, from complaints about contracts to deleting the team off of social media, but both sides want to get something done. Regardless, Murray is tied to the team for at least another two years, and perhaps Arizona could use the franchise tag beyond that.

Asked GM Steve Keim about possibility of trading Kyler Murray: “Zero chance” was the answer
— Kent Somers (@kentsomers) April 21, 2022

According to reports, the Kansas City Chiefs are unlikely to trade for San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel. While they don't exactly have the draft picks to give in return for another star wideout, they seem content to turn to Mecole Hardman, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, and the draft to replace Tyreek Hill.

Some speculation that @Chiefs are interested in @49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel because of draft capital. A team source says a move for Samuel — or DK Metcalf, A.J. Brown or Terry McLaurin — isn’t likely. Told all those options “are probably all long shots at this point.”
— Jeffri Chadiha (@jeffrichadiha) April 21, 2022

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo had shoulder surgery about six weeks ago, and while not at voluntary team workouts, he is rehabbing his shoulder offsite. Garoppolo is not throwing now but thinks he'll be good to go for training camp. Whether or not that will be with the Niners is yet to be seen, as he was expected to be traded this offseason, with the starting job being given to Trey Lance.

Just spoke to #49ers QB Jimmy Garoppolo. He said shoulder surgery 6 weeks ago went well. He's not throwing yet. He believes he'll be ready for training camp but "there's a lot of steps in between now and then but I think we'll be ready by then."
— Rob Maaddi (@RobMaaddi) April 21, 2022

Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll said extension talks with star wide receiver DK Metcalf have not begun. While Metcalf is seeking a new deal, he still showed up to voluntary workouts for the team, which Carroll also praised. Recently, Metcalf has been linked in trade talks with the New York Jets and Kansas City Chiefs. It's unclear if this will happen or not, so we'll just have to wait and see.

Pete Carroll says they've yet to directly address contract extension talks with DK Metcalf, who is here participating in offseason program
— Dugar, Michael-Shawn (@MikeDugar) April 21, 2022

deebo wants a trade

4/21/2022

Versatile wide receiver Deebo Samuel has informed the San Francisco 49ers that he wants a trade. This has been brewing for quite some time, from deleting all traces of the Niners from his social media to his brother posting a cryptic Facebook status about the situation. Samuel is up for an extension, and talks have stalled to the point where he isn't even willing to discuss it with the team. Samuel is one of those players who will instantly make any roster better, but it is up to the Niners to grant his trade request.

Breaking News: I just spoke to wide receiver Deebo Samuel — and he told me that he has asked the 49ers to trade him.

He did not want to discuss specific reasons behind his request, but he has indeed let the 49ers know his desire to leave the organization. More to come.
— Jeff Darlington (@JeffDarlington) April 20, 2022

Michigan pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson has long been rumored to be the first pick in this year's NFL Draft. Hutchinson is convinced of this based on his interactions with the team picking at number one - none other than the Jacksonville Jaguars. This could be just cold, hard truth, or a potential smokescreen, perhaps to entice a team who may want Hutchinson to trade up. We'll find out in a week.

Spoke with a source close to Michigan EDGE Aidan Hutchinson yesterday who told me Hutchinson believes he'll be Jacksonville's pick at No. 1 overall "based on his interactions with them."
— Thor Nystrom (@thorku) April 20, 2022

New York Giants' new head coach Brian Daboll spoke to the media on Wednesday, where he confirmed that wide receiver Kadarius Toney was not in attendance at voluntary minicamp. Daboll also stated that Toney had not yet received a playbook. New York hasn't had any virtual sessions, so players' first glimpse at the new playbook would be at these voluntary workouts (I mean, it kinda seems like that's your own fault, yes?). Toney previously skipped these workouts due to not signing his rookie deal. Toney has a high ceiling talent-wise but has to get on the field first. And a playbook seems conducive to doing that.

Giants HC Brian Daboll says Kadarius Toney is not here at voluntary pre-draft minicamp. Says Toney hasn’t received the playbook yet, because they haven’t done anything virtual. Daboll is careful to remind this is a voluntary camp. But given Toney’s history, this is noteworthy. pic.twitter.com/yVnYpd7S92
— Pat Leonard (@PLeonardNYDN) April 20, 2022

When asked if the Philadelphia Eagles could draft a quarterback in this year's draft, general manager Howie Roseman is again trying to convince us that they are sold on current starter Jalen Hurts. However, their move to acquire a first-round pick for 2023's draft from the New Orleans Saints, plus their meetings with just about every top QB prospect in this year's draft, have me thinking otherwise. Translation: This is likely Hurts' last chance to prove himself as Philly's starter.

Howie Roseman says the #Eagles are excited about Jalen Hurts. Also says they are going to support him and hope he has a great career in Philadelphia.
— Eliot Shorr-Parks (@EliotShorrParks) April 20, 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

the ol' unfollow

4/8/2022

Wide receiver Deebo Samuel has been in contract talks with the San Francisco 49ers all offseason, while rumors have also been swirling that the team is trying to trade him. However, the All-Pro is coming off of his best season in 2021, so the time to trade him to get the maximum in exchange is probably now. With other receivers like Stefon Diggs and Tyreek Hill getting paid top-dollar, Samuel undoubtedly wants in on the action. The only question is if it will be with the Niners or with someone else. Samuel recently pulled the ol' social media unfollow on his current team, leaving some to wonder if talks have stalled with San Francisco.

Things are starting to get interesting. Deebo Samuel has unfollowed the #49ers on IG □ pic.twitter.com/vxTjDY3fJL
— The Game Day NFL (@TheGameDayNFL) April 7, 2022

The Detroit Lions have the No. 2 pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, and they have quite an exciting approach to picking their first-round guy: They want him to be an instant starter. Groundbreaking. However, this tends to lean toward the notion that they won't be using this pick on a quarterback; as frustrating as current starter Jared Goff is at times, I don't think there is a guy that will start over him in September. They could (and probably should) take a quarterback in the later rounds.

Campbell on No. 2 pick: “You want a guy who can come in and he’s a Day 1 starter. That’s really what you’re trying to acquire. You’d like to think by the time you hit your first game this player is staring for you and he’s going to be able to produce."
— Tim Twentyman (@ttwentyman) April 7, 2022

The Indianapolis Colts recently signed quarterback Matt Ryan for some reason, but they're still looking at draft prospects at the same position. Indy has recently scheduled a visit with top QB prospect and likely first-round draft choice Malik Willis, out of Liberty. This would give Willis a chance to learn behind a starting quarterback for a year or two and allow him to be the "QB of the future."

From NFL Now: Among the visits coming up for Liberty QB Malik Willis are the #Falcons, #Panthers and #Colts -- all next week. pic.twitter.com/qEYhpJBykb
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 7, 2022

pre-scouting combine nonsense

3/3/2022

The 2022 NFL Scouting Combine is underway, and teams are back on their bullshit. UNC quarterback Sam Howell revealed that the Philadelphia Eagles had him shoot on a small basketball hoop. This exercise is pretty harmless compared to some of the things I've heard teams discuss with players, but it's still pretty stupid, no?

#UNC QB Sam Howell was asked if he’s had any strange questions from teams. No strange questions, but said the Eagles had him shoot a basketball on a mini hoop.

“I only made like 2 of 5, so I’m probably not high on their board right now” □ □ pic.twitter.com/7q3oyexQbg
— Trevor Sikkema (@TampaBayTre) March 2, 2022

Arizona Cardinals head coach Kliff Kingsbury and general manager Steve Keim signed extensions on Wednesday, which is quite head-scratching if you remember Kyler Murray's very public want for a new deal earlier this week. Kingsbury and Murray even have the same agent. So how will this affect Murray getting a deal? Who knows, but I'm getting my popcorn ready.

We have reached agreements on contract extensions with GM Steve Keim and Head Coach Kliff Kingsbury.

Each is now under contract with the team through the 2027 season.

Details ➡️ https://t.co/alvgq5X3gQ pic.twitter.com/coaa99l19R
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) March 2, 2022

Liberty quarterback Malik Willis is slated to be one of the top QBs in this year's NFL Draft. Sometimes we worry about how these young guys will translate from college to the NFL, but it seems like Willis has this under control. Willis was asked how he manages to keep his focus and gave this perfect answer. Do we have a new QB to stan?

Liberty’s Malik Willis: “Everybody’s going to have an opinion of you but if you care about their opinions, you’re not going to be happy. I want to be happy, so I’m going to worry about what I can control.” pic.twitter.com/Tsna7EWwwS
— Mike Jones (@ByMikeJones) March 2, 2022

Not every day you see an NFL GM cry at the Combine. Tennessee Titans GM Jon Robinson was asked about his team and how the season ended. Apparently, he had some strong feelings about it. I'm all for men showing emotion. Let it out!

Asked what he could could have done better last year, Jon Robinson started to answer and then went here. #Titans pic.twitter.com/4iBQwGH88l
— Paul Kuharsky (@PaulKuharskyNFL) March 2, 2022

His buddy Tom Brady announced his retirement, but Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Rob Gronkowski hasn't made his decision yet on if he'll play next season. If he does decide to play for another year, the Buffalo Bills are one of the teams interested. Dawson Knox had a great season last year, but the addition of Gronk would make the Bills' offense even more explosive.

Bills interested in adding Rob Gronkowski as another weapon for Josh Allen https://t.co/HvcI9oIKus
— Tim Graham (@ByTimGraham) March 2, 2022

And I'll leave you with a feel-good story, the best kind of story. San Francisco 49ers GM John Lynch spoke during the Combine and was asked about the newly hired Miami Dolphins coach, ex-Niners offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel. Lynch praised McDaniel up and down and didn't know McDaniel was listening. He had quite a reaction.

John Lynch was praising Mike McDaniel at the podium. Listening in, unbeknownst to John, was Mike McDaniel. This is what it looked like. This is beautiful. pic.twitter.com/avaiakwmek
— Kevin Clark (@bykevinclark) March 2, 2022

Mike Mcdaniel in south beach

2/7/2022

The Miami Dolphins have hired their head coach. San Francisco 49ers assistant Mike McDaniel blew the Dolphins away and will be the Dolphins' head coach heading into the 2022 NFL season. McDaniels is an intelligent football mind who can take their offense to the next level. There's one snag, though. I don't think current starter Tua Tagovailoa is the quarterback McDaniels excels with. It will be interesting to see if the team picks up a free agent veteran this offseason.

We have agreed to terms with Mike McDaniel. Welcome to Miami, Coach! pic.twitter.com/Hk5gIQsc6l
— Miami Dolphins (@MiamiDolphins) February 6, 2022

The Houston Texans are one of many teams in line for a new head coach next season, and the team is currently interviewing candidates and determining who is willing to join this dumpster fire of a franchise. After firing David Culley after only one season, the Texans are reportedly down to two finalists. Among those linked to the Houston job: former Miami Dolphins head coach Brian Flores, Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon, and former NFL quarterback Josh McCown. I am begging for McCown just for comedic purposes. I guess we will find out soon.

"Multiple sources told me -since yesterday -they’ve received word and /or have seen notification that the #Texans indicated they're were down to at least two finalists at said time, and moreover that a 3rd finalist was informed then-- they’re no longer in consideration."
— IG: JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) February 6, 2022

Everyone and their mom will be talking about Joe Burrow this week. Everyone and their mom will also likely be awaiting to see that Super Bowl fit next weekend (I know I will). Burrow's outfits have been a topic of conversation lately, specifically that JB9 chain. You've seen it. Social media artist Sadie Stuart painted Burrow wearing said chain, and it looks incredibly realistic. More so, she's auctioning off the painting to support Joe Burrow's Hunger Relief Fund. Here's how to enter:

Here’s a snippet from the Instagram post on how to WIN this painting! #WHODEY pic.twitter.com/uXOBUakIdi
— darry lavid (@typicalsadz) February 6, 2022

Aaron Rodgers' future will be one of the most talked-about stories this offseason. With guys like Ben Roethlisberger and Tom Brady (allegedly) retiring, many wonder if Rodgers will follow suit. While many are speculating that he could play elsewhere, Green Bay Packers' management is reportedly agreeing on how to handle this question going into the offseason. The (likely) league MVP has shown his worth in Green Bay, and it wouldn't be a shock to see him stick around in Wisconsin. But for how long is unclear.

(Cont.): Fowler also went onto report that he’s heard both Rodgers and the #Packers Front Office have had meetings, but they haven’t been “too intense yet”, recapping the season/pieces they like/etc. Which is on par for other reports.
— Kyle Malzhan (@KyleMalzhan) February 6, 2022

Hats off to you if you watched the Pro Bowl yesterday. If you did, you probably saw New England Patriots QB Mac Jones do what the kids call The Griddy. Jones threw for 112 yards and a touchdown, while other AFC QB Justin Herbert was named the offensive MVP.

MAC JONES DID THE GRIDDY □

□: #ProBowl on ESPN
□: https://t.co/Nmf6WcClQ3 pic.twitter.com/jdSfrcZDC7
— NFL (@NFL) February 6, 2022

Speaking of the Pro Bowl, it was held in Vegas. New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara was arrested following the Pro Bowl (which he played in) for beating someone up at a nightclub the night before. So far, the NFL's experiment with Sin City hasn't been going that well.

Battery resulting in substantial bodily harm--using force to cause severe injuries--is a felony. Under Nevada law, conviction can lead to a prison term of up to 5 years. Case more likely resolved through a plea/suspended sentence, but still a serious charge against Alvin Kamara. https://t.co/cF3He8wKEZ
— Michael McCann (@McCannSportsLaw) February 7, 2022