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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

jaire alexander becomes highest-paid cb

5/17/2022

The Green Bay Packers signed cornerback Jaire Alexander to a four-year, $84 million contract extension, making him the highest-paid corner in NFL history (up until this point, because we know that's how it works). Alexander is said to be fully recovered from a shoulder injury that kept him sidelined for the majority of 2021. When healthy, Alexander is one of the best CBs in the NFL; now, he's paid like one.

Packers and Pro-Bowl CB Jaire Alexander are finalizing a 4-year, $84 million contract extension, per source. Deal includes $31 million in 2022 - a DB record of $30 million in signing bonus. Alexander will receive $42.5M by March. @JohnThornton of @RocNationSports confirmed deal.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 16, 2022

On Monday, the Atlanta Falcons signed former Green Bay Packers wide receiver Geronimo Allison, adding another option to the mix. Allison is inconsistent at best, mostly having a great game now and then before falling off completely. Allison had most of his success in Green Bay, but the team let him walk in free agency.

The Falcons have signed veteran WR Geronimo Allison.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) May 16, 2022

The league is likely deciding on a potential Deshaun Watson suspension, as executives are reportedly meeting with Watson in Texas later this week. Backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett would probably start in Watson's place for the Cleveland Browns for the duration of his suspension.

In such investigations, the NFL usually talks to the player last, so this is likely an indication the league is wrapping things up. Next question would be whether or not they make a ruling before there's resolution on the 22 civil cases. https://t.co/0Ff0G06Azt
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) May 16, 2022

The New England Patriots waived quarterback D'Eriq King, who signed with the team as an undrafted free agent. King was expected to play a multitude of roles -- anything from QB to receiver to running back to kick returner. King didn't do enough to earn a roster spot, but could end up on the practice squad.

The Patriots have waived former Miami QB D’Eriq King, who signed with the team as an undrafted free agent.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) May 16, 2022

we'll be subjected to more tom brady

5/11/2022

Whenever Tom Brady decides to retire for real this time (hopefully sooner rather than later), he will still grace our television screens until the end of time. Sigh. Brady will be an analyst for Fox (of course) at the end of his playing career.

Tom Brady joining Fox Sports as lead NFL analyst after he retires! Lachlan Murdoch breaks news on Fox earnings call.
— Joe Flint (@JBFlint) May 10, 2022

Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Clyde Christensen said Kyle Trask would not be competing with Blaine Gabbert for the backup QB job during camp, which is... interesting. This doesn't bode well for Trask's future as a quarterback if he can't beat out Gabbert in camp, no? How bad can this guy be?

Bucs quarterbacks coach Clyde Christensen when asked if Kyle Trask will have the chance to compete as the backup QB: "It's more of a learning curve. I don't see him competing with Gabbert this year. ... I see Gabbert being the backup and Kyle being the developmental guy."
— JennaLaineESPN (@JennaLaineESPN) May 10, 2022

finally some relief for james bradberry

5/10/2022

After trying to trade him, the New York Giants (finally) released cornerback James Bradberry on Monday. However, Bradberry should find a home rather quickly, as several teams have been interested in him throughout the past month. Cutting Bradberry saves the Giants $10.1 million in cap space.

The Giants are releasing CB James Bradberry after failing to find a trade partner, per source. The move will create $10.1M in cap savings while leaving $11.7M in dead money.

(Savings will be $11.5M with $10.4M dead this year and $1.4M dead in 2023 if they make it a June 1 cut)
— Dan Duggan (@DDuggan21) May 9, 2022

The Detroit Lions have signed their first-round pick, Aidan Hutchinson, to a four-year, $35.7 million contract. It includes a $23.15 million signing bonus and a fifth-year option. Hutchinson was one of the top prospects in the 2022 NFL Draft and will be a game-changing player for a team that desperately needs it.

Aidan Hutchinson’s four-year contract with the #Lions is worth $35,713,388, including a $23,153,372 signing bonus.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) May 9, 2022

the ravens + jarvis landry?

5/9/2022

The Baltimore Ravens have "expressed interest" in former Cleveland Browns and Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jarvis Landry. How much interest exactly? I'm told they haven't reached out or made him an offer (as of this past weekend). This year, Baltimore passed on drafting a receiver after trading Marquise Brown to the Arizona Cardinals. The Ravens' WR room currently consists of Rashod Bateman, James Proche, and Devin Duvernay. The New Orleans Saints have also been linked to Landry.

Free agent WR Jarvis Landry has not heard from the #Browns as of late following the team drafting two WRs in the NFL Draft, per a league source.

I’m told another team in the AFC North: the Baltimore Ravens, have expressed interest in Landry since the draft ended.
— Brad Stainbrook (@StainbrookNFL) May 6, 2022

Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles said the team is "all in" on second-year quarterback Justin Fields. Umm... I would hope so. The team, so far, hasn't built around Fields the way they should. They added wideout Velus Jones in the third round, and that's pretty much it. Darnell Mooney and Byron Pringle are also there, but neither are that special. I hope the expectations are realistic.

"We're all in on Justin [Fields]. I believe in Justin, the staff believes in Justin."

- Ryan Poles, just now on ESPN 1000
— Jeremy Layton (@JeremyLayt0n) May 6, 2022

At their minicamp, free agent defensive tackle Marcell Dareus is working out for the Baltimore Ravens. Dareus has not seen the field since being cut by the Jacksonville Jaguars at the end of the 2019 season. So this is quite a reach.

Harbaugh said former first-round DT Marcell Dareus also at Ravens minicamp.
— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) May 7, 2022