1 month ago
Baker Mayfield faces a $50M crossroads amid uncertain Buccaneers future originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have refused to pay Baker Mayfield a big new contract extension, as they enter the 2026 NFL season with some long-term question marks at the position.
But, for at least 2026, Mayfield is the starting quarterback. He'll be the starter in 2026 and have a real chance to prove himself one more time. A lot is on the line for Mayfield in 2026.
As ESPN's Bill Barnwell highlighted, there is a $50 million-plus crossroads that Mayfield is facing this season. Depending on how he plays in 2026, Mayfield could potentially wind up playing elsewhere next year.
"There will be organizations angling for Arch Manning, Dante Moore and other options at the top of next year's draft, but if a team such as the Steelers isn't drafting high enough to land one of the top prospects, will it be willing to pay north of $50 million per season to lock in Mayfield?" Barnwell writes. "His 2026 production might determine whether that's a realistic path."
#buccaneers #barnwell
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have refused to pay Baker Mayfield a big new contract extension, as they enter the 2026 NFL season with some long-term question marks at the position.
But, for at least 2026, Mayfield is the starting quarterback. He'll be the starter in 2026 and have a real chance to prove himself one more time. A lot is on the line for Mayfield in 2026.
As ESPN's Bill Barnwell highlighted, there is a $50 million-plus crossroads that Mayfield is facing this season. Depending on how he plays in 2026, Mayfield could potentially wind up playing elsewhere next year.
"There will be organizations angling for Arch Manning, Dante Moore and other options at the top of next year's draft, but if a team such as the Steelers isn't drafting high enough to land one of the top prospects, will it be willing to pay north of $50 million per season to lock in Mayfield?" Barnwell writes. "His 2026 production might determine whether that's a realistic path."
#buccaneers #barnwell
1 month ago
How George Pickens could have a 'massive opportunity' that would hurt the Cowboys originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Dallas Cowboys elected not to sign George Pickens to a long-term contract extension this offseason, instead franchise tagging him at a $27.3 million mark.
But looking at next offseason, the Cowboys will either have to sign him to a long-term deal or franchise tag him for a massive $32 million-plus one-year contract.
ESPN's Bill Barnwell doesn't believe the Cowboys will have interest in such a lofty one-year deal. If so, Pickens has a massive opportunity in 2026 to have another big season and hit free agency to land a massive new deal.
"The Cowboys spent heavily to fix their defense this offseason, and they might not be interested in a second franchise tag for Pickens in 2027, which would cost more than $32 million," Barnwell writes. "Hitting unrestricted free agency as a 26-year-old wide receiver could be a massive opportunity for Pickens, who would potentially be the best player available."
#cowboys #massive #Opportunity #offseason
The Dallas Cowboys elected not to sign George Pickens to a long-term contract extension this offseason, instead franchise tagging him at a $27.3 million mark.
But looking at next offseason, the Cowboys will either have to sign him to a long-term deal or franchise tag him for a massive $32 million-plus one-year contract.
ESPN's Bill Barnwell doesn't believe the Cowboys will have interest in such a lofty one-year deal. If so, Pickens has a massive opportunity in 2026 to have another big season and hit free agency to land a massive new deal.
"The Cowboys spent heavily to fix their defense this offseason, and they might not be interested in a second franchise tag for Pickens in 2027, which would cost more than $32 million," Barnwell writes. "Hitting unrestricted free agency as a 26-year-old wide receiver could be a massive opportunity for Pickens, who would potentially be the best player available."
#cowboys #massive #Opportunity #offseason
2 months ago
ESPN Sounds Alarm On Patriots After Historic 2025 Turnaround originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New England Patriots authored one of the NFL's most remarkable transformations last season. Mike Vrabel took over a team that had finished 4-13 in consecutive years and immediately guided it to a 14-3 record, an AFC East championship and an appearance in Super Bowl LX. New England's 10-win improvement tied the largest single-season jump in NFL history.
Repeating that success could prove even more difficult than achieving it the first time.
ESPN's Bill Barnwell included the Patriots in his annual breakdown of the NFL teams most likely to decline during the 2026 season. That prediction might sound harsh after New England strengthened its roster over the offseason. In reality, it says as much about the extraordinary height of last season's success as it does about any concern surrounding the current Patriots.
New England did not simply sneak into the playoffs during Vrabel's first season. The Patriots won 14 games, captured their first AFC East **** le since 2019 and advanced through three postseason rounds. They defeated the Los Angeles Chargers and Houston Texans at Gillette Stadium before earning a 10-7 road victory over the Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship Game.
#last
The New England Patriots authored one of the NFL's most remarkable transformations last season. Mike Vrabel took over a team that had finished 4-13 in consecutive years and immediately guided it to a 14-3 record, an AFC East championship and an appearance in Super Bowl LX. New England's 10-win improvement tied the largest single-season jump in NFL history.
Repeating that success could prove even more difficult than achieving it the first time.
ESPN's Bill Barnwell included the Patriots in his annual breakdown of the NFL teams most likely to decline during the 2026 season. That prediction might sound harsh after New England strengthened its roster over the offseason. In reality, it says as much about the extraordinary height of last season's success as it does about any concern surrounding the current Patriots.
New England did not simply sneak into the playoffs during Vrabel's first season. The Patriots won 14 games, captured their first AFC East **** le since 2019 and advanced through three postseason rounds. They defeated the Los Angeles Chargers and Houston Texans at Gillette Stadium before earning a 10-7 road victory over the Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship Game.
#last
2 months ago
After the Detroit Lions' 2025 disappointing season—a playoff-less 9-8 year—analysts have gone one of two ways with the future in Detroit. Some believe their Super Bowl window is closing or closed. Others believe it was a temporary step back, and they'll be back in contention in 2026. Well, you can count ESPN's Bill Barnwell as one of the people in the latter category.
On Monday, Barnwell put together his annual list of NFL teams most likely to improve in 2026, and the Lions were one of five teams listed. Barnwell's methodology for these list typically involves a set of statistics that tend to regress (positively or negatively) to the mean each year. That includes strength of schedule, records in close games, turnover margin, and point differential.
When it comes to the Lions, Barnwell pointed to several metrics that indicate Detroit could be in for a bounce-back season. One odd one was Detroit's terrible recovery rate on fumbles. Per Barnwell, Detroit recovered just 29 percent of fumbles last year, which not only was last in the league, but it was "just the fifth time since 1990 that any team has failed to recover at least 30% of fumbles in a season."
Barnwell also points to injuries as something that should (hopefully) regress to the mean in the Lions' favor in 2026.
"Detroit was last in adjusted games lost on defense, where the only starters who suited up for all 17 games were Derrick Barnes, Jack Campbell, Aidan Hutchinson and DJ Reader," Barnwell wrote.
#games #fumbles #believe
On Monday, Barnwell put together his annual list of NFL teams most likely to improve in 2026, and the Lions were one of five teams listed. Barnwell's methodology for these list typically involves a set of statistics that tend to regress (positively or negatively) to the mean each year. That includes strength of schedule, records in close games, turnover margin, and point differential.
When it comes to the Lions, Barnwell pointed to several metrics that indicate Detroit could be in for a bounce-back season. One odd one was Detroit's terrible recovery rate on fumbles. Per Barnwell, Detroit recovered just 29 percent of fumbles last year, which not only was last in the league, but it was "just the fifth time since 1990 that any team has failed to recover at least 30% of fumbles in a season."
Barnwell also points to injuries as something that should (hopefully) regress to the mean in the Lions' favor in 2026.
"Detroit was last in adjusted games lost on defense, where the only starters who suited up for all 17 games were Derrick Barnes, Jack Campbell, Aidan Hutchinson and DJ Reader," Barnwell wrote.
#games #fumbles #believe
2 months ago
As the next crop of hallowed names enter Canton, Ohio, as the newest members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, who are the current members of the Houston Texans following a similar path to one day become immortalized?
Three-time Defensive Player of the Year J.J. Watt will, without question, become a first-ballot Hall of Fame honoree when eligible in 2028, but he's been retired for three seasons. It's about the here and now of players that continue to impress on the field and look unstopabble in their pathway to Canton.
So, who qualifes for Houston?
ESPN's Bill Barnwell recently revealed every team's top players and their chances of having a Hall of Fame career. Several players have just found their footing and need to continue to build off their success to be considered fringe options, but the consistency of Pro Bowler Danielle Hunter throughout his 12-year career has him in the "on the cusp" category entering 2026.
"Hunter's not an obvious candidate, and missing nearly a year and a half in the middle of his Vikings career hurt, but the six-time Pro Bowler is making a beeline for the Hall of Fame with his work over the past three seasons," Barnwell. "Hunter has 114.5 sacks under his belt, 43.5 of which have come since the start of the 2023 campaign. And having entered the league at 20, Hunter's still only 31 years old.
#fame #year #canton #barnwell
Three-time Defensive Player of the Year J.J. Watt will, without question, become a first-ballot Hall of Fame honoree when eligible in 2028, but he's been retired for three seasons. It's about the here and now of players that continue to impress on the field and look unstopabble in their pathway to Canton.
So, who qualifes for Houston?
ESPN's Bill Barnwell recently revealed every team's top players and their chances of having a Hall of Fame career. Several players have just found their footing and need to continue to build off their success to be considered fringe options, but the consistency of Pro Bowler Danielle Hunter throughout his 12-year career has him in the "on the cusp" category entering 2026.
"Hunter's not an obvious candidate, and missing nearly a year and a half in the middle of his Vikings career hurt, but the six-time Pro Bowler is making a beeline for the Hall of Fame with his work over the past three seasons," Barnwell. "Hunter has 114.5 sacks under his belt, 43.5 of which have come since the start of the 2023 campaign. And having entered the league at 20, Hunter's still only 31 years old.
#fame #year #canton #barnwell
2 months ago
The latest contract extension at the guard position could impact Quenton Nelson and the Indianapolis Colts.
On Friday, the Tennessee **** ans signed guard Peter Skoronski to a four-year, $100 million contract extension, according to Ian Rapoport. This deal includes $88 million in guaranteed money.
At $25 million per year in new money, Skoronski is now the NFL's highest-paid guard by average annual value, surpassing Tyler Smith and Matthew Bergeron, who are each earning $24 million per year.
Nelson is entering the final year of his current contract with the Colts. He is a prime contract extension candidate, but if he hits the open market in 2027, he will be highly sought after.
ESPN's Bill Barnwell believes that Nelson's next deal could make him the highest-paid guard in the NFL. If that ends up being the case, then Nelson's asking price may have just gone up.
#million #colts
On Friday, the Tennessee **** ans signed guard Peter Skoronski to a four-year, $100 million contract extension, according to Ian Rapoport. This deal includes $88 million in guaranteed money.
At $25 million per year in new money, Skoronski is now the NFL's highest-paid guard by average annual value, surpassing Tyler Smith and Matthew Bergeron, who are each earning $24 million per year.
Nelson is entering the final year of his current contract with the Colts. He is a prime contract extension candidate, but if he hits the open market in 2027, he will be highly sought after.
ESPN's Bill Barnwell believes that Nelson's next deal could make him the highest-paid guard in the NFL. If that ends up being the case, then Nelson's asking price may have just gone up.
#million #colts
2 months ago
ESPN's Bill Barnwell recently went team by team projecting each franchise's realistic Hall of Fame candidates, and while several 49ers stars fared well, one veteran was tabbed as unlikely to reach Canton.
Barnwell explained his approach before sorting players into five tiers: players that are in, on the cusp, need to keep it up, have work to do and will be missing out on the Hall of Fame, based on historical comparables rather than personal opinion on merit.
San Francisco had plenty of representation across the spectrum. Barnwell listed receiver Mike Evans, running back Christian McCaffrey and tackle Trent Williams as locks, while tight end George Kittle and linebacker Fred Warner landed in the "on the cusp" group. Edge rusher Nick Bosa and quarterback Brock Purdy were tabbed as having "work to do" but remain on a promising trajectory.
Fullback Kyle Juszczyk, however, fell into the "missing out" category despite a decorated career in the Bay Area.
Juszczyk will be a fascinating case to see whether that keeps up, given that he just earned his 10th consecutive Pro Bowl nod in 2025. Of course, while Juszczyk is a good player, it's fair to wonder whether he's racking up Pro Bowl appearances by virtue of being the most conspicuous player at a position where there simply aren't many others, just as Mike Alstott became a six-time Pro Bowler with the Bucs. Juszczyk plays only about half of the offensive snaps in a typical game, and it seems telling that the 49ers were willing to cut him this offseason before re-signing him, saving about $500,000 in the process. I'd be a little surprised if he made it in just given how the league has valued fullbacks.
#hall #cusp
Barnwell explained his approach before sorting players into five tiers: players that are in, on the cusp, need to keep it up, have work to do and will be missing out on the Hall of Fame, based on historical comparables rather than personal opinion on merit.
San Francisco had plenty of representation across the spectrum. Barnwell listed receiver Mike Evans, running back Christian McCaffrey and tackle Trent Williams as locks, while tight end George Kittle and linebacker Fred Warner landed in the "on the cusp" group. Edge rusher Nick Bosa and quarterback Brock Purdy were tabbed as having "work to do" but remain on a promising trajectory.
Fullback Kyle Juszczyk, however, fell into the "missing out" category despite a decorated career in the Bay Area.
Juszczyk will be a fascinating case to see whether that keeps up, given that he just earned his 10th consecutive Pro Bowl nod in 2025. Of course, while Juszczyk is a good player, it's fair to wonder whether he's racking up Pro Bowl appearances by virtue of being the most conspicuous player at a position where there simply aren't many others, just as Mike Alstott became a six-time Pro Bowler with the Bucs. Juszczyk plays only about half of the offensive snaps in a typical game, and it seems telling that the 49ers were willing to cut him this offseason before re-signing him, saving about $500,000 in the process. I'd be a little surprised if he made it in just given how the league has valued fullbacks.
#hall #cusp
2 months ago
ESPN ****** yst makes bold Colts' Quenton Nelson Hall of Fame prediction ahead of year nine originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Indianapolis Colts have had plenty of legendary players come through their organization, including Jeff Saturday, the Hall of Fame interior offensive lineman.
In today's game, the Colts might not be as elite as they once were with Peyton Manning or Andrew Luck, but there's been one constant the last eight years, and it's been Quenton Nelson. He's been about as great an interior lineman as a team could ask for.
ESPN ****** yst Bill Barnwell, heading into the 2026 NFL season and Nelson's ninth year in the league, predicted that the Colts' offensive guard has already made his mark enough in his career to earn a Hall of Fame nod if he retired right now.
"In: G Quenton Nelson," Barnwell writes. "Nelson is in the prestigious club of players to start their career with eight consecutive Pro Bowl appearances. Every Hall-eligible player to do that has been enshrined."
#year
The Indianapolis Colts have had plenty of legendary players come through their organization, including Jeff Saturday, the Hall of Fame interior offensive lineman.
In today's game, the Colts might not be as elite as they once were with Peyton Manning or Andrew Luck, but there's been one constant the last eight years, and it's been Quenton Nelson. He's been about as great an interior lineman as a team could ask for.
ESPN ****** yst Bill Barnwell, heading into the 2026 NFL season and Nelson's ninth year in the league, predicted that the Colts' offensive guard has already made his mark enough in his career to earn a Hall of Fame nod if he retired right now.
"In: G Quenton Nelson," Barnwell writes. "Nelson is in the prestigious club of players to start their career with eight consecutive Pro Bowl appearances. Every Hall-eligible player to do that has been enshrined."
#year
2 months ago
Vikings WR Justin Jefferson gets wild, but accurate, Hall of Fame projection from ESPN originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Minnesota Vikings don't really have the best team right now, but they do have Justin Jefferson compiling an incredible career at the moment.
With some major uncertainty at the quarterback position, the hope is that Kyler Murray can get Jefferson the ball often as he deserves. But, even with his shaky QB production, Jefferson has already put together a remarkable NFL career.
Heading into 2026, and Jefferson's seventh NFL season, ESPN's Bill Barnwell made an incredibly bold projection that Jefferson is already "on the cusp" of making the Hall of Fame. But, while bold, this projection might be accurate.
"On the cusp: WR Justin Jefferson," Barnwell writes. "... There will be plenty of competition at wide receiver in the years to come, but ***** uming Jefferson bounces back from an uneven 2025 season with better QB play, he's only another year or two away from earning his plaque."
#projection #sporting #barnwell #accurate
The Minnesota Vikings don't really have the best team right now, but they do have Justin Jefferson compiling an incredible career at the moment.
With some major uncertainty at the quarterback position, the hope is that Kyler Murray can get Jefferson the ball often as he deserves. But, even with his shaky QB production, Jefferson has already put together a remarkable NFL career.
Heading into 2026, and Jefferson's seventh NFL season, ESPN's Bill Barnwell made an incredibly bold projection that Jefferson is already "on the cusp" of making the Hall of Fame. But, while bold, this projection might be accurate.
"On the cusp: WR Justin Jefferson," Barnwell writes. "... There will be plenty of competition at wide receiver in the years to come, but ***** uming Jefferson bounces back from an uneven 2025 season with better QB play, he's only another year or two away from earning his plaque."
#projection #sporting #barnwell #accurate
2 months ago
Saints' Cameron Jordan receives good omen amid ESPN Hall of Fame projection originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New Orleans Saints might not have their best team put together at the moment, but this is a young roster that's on the rise. There are still veterans, like Cameron Jordan, helping out as well.
Speaking of Jordan, the franchise legend is back for one more season, and he's got a real chance to make the Pro Football Hall of Fame. But, where does he stand right now?
ESPN's Bill Barnwell projects that Jordan is "on the cusp" of making the Hall of Fame, and just one more solid season in 2026 would likely have him en route to the Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.
"On the cusp: Cameron Jordan," Barnwell writes. "I could see an argument that Jordan has already done enough to get in after a 10.5-sack season in 2025, and even a six-sack season in 2026 would surely be enough to get him over the hump."
#hall
The New Orleans Saints might not have their best team put together at the moment, but this is a young roster that's on the rise. There are still veterans, like Cameron Jordan, helping out as well.
Speaking of Jordan, the franchise legend is back for one more season, and he's got a real chance to make the Pro Football Hall of Fame. But, where does he stand right now?
ESPN's Bill Barnwell projects that Jordan is "on the cusp" of making the Hall of Fame, and just one more solid season in 2026 would likely have him en route to the Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.
"On the cusp: Cameron Jordan," Barnwell writes. "I could see an argument that Jordan has already done enough to get in after a 10.5-sack season in 2025, and even a six-sack season in 2026 would surely be enough to get him over the hump."
#hall
2 months ago
This evening football will finally return to our TV sets, as the NFL's first preseason game of the year kicks off between the Carolina Panthers and the Arizona Cardinals in the annual Hall of Fame game.
Later this week on Saturday afternoon the Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremony will take place in Canton, Ohio - as the class of 2026 officially enters the hall. That includes Larry Fitzgerald, Drew Brees, Luke Kuechly, Adam Vinatieri and Roger Craig.
As for the Atlanta Falcons, there are a few potential future Hall of Famers currently on the roster, according to ESPN - where Bill Barnwell has running back Bijan Robinson alone in the "Keep it up" tier for Atlanta:
"The Hall loves its running backs, and Robinson has been among the best in the league across his three-year career. The explosive plays that had curiously been missing from Robinson's profile appeared last season, and he nearly doubled his receiving totals from 2023 and 2024 with an 820-yard campaign in 2025. If Robinson can stay at or near this level while remaining healthy, he will earn a trip to Canton."
Barnwell also has three others in the "work to do" category in order to eventually make the Hall. That includes right guard Chris Lindstrom, wide receiver Drake London and tight end Kyle Pitts.
#atlanta #barnwell
Later this week on Saturday afternoon the Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremony will take place in Canton, Ohio - as the class of 2026 officially enters the hall. That includes Larry Fitzgerald, Drew Brees, Luke Kuechly, Adam Vinatieri and Roger Craig.
As for the Atlanta Falcons, there are a few potential future Hall of Famers currently on the roster, according to ESPN - where Bill Barnwell has running back Bijan Robinson alone in the "Keep it up" tier for Atlanta:
"The Hall loves its running backs, and Robinson has been among the best in the league across his three-year career. The explosive plays that had curiously been missing from Robinson's profile appeared last season, and he nearly doubled his receiving totals from 2023 and 2024 with an 820-yard campaign in 2025. If Robinson can stay at or near this level while remaining healthy, he will earn a trip to Canton."
Barnwell also has three others in the "work to do" category in order to eventually make the Hall. That includes right guard Chris Lindstrom, wide receiver Drake London and tight end Kyle Pitts.
#atlanta #barnwell
2 months ago
ESPN's Bill Barnwell made an All-Backup Team, and two New England Patriots players made the cut.
Barnwell used all backup players and rotation guys to make a 53-man roster. He forced himself to take at least one backup from each team, but he did not take more than two players. His main goal was to go after players who participate regularly on special teams that help fill out the backend of the lineup.
It's also worth noting that he wanted to incorporate rookies on his team. However, the Patriots did not have a rookie representative in this situation. The players Barnwell chose for the Patriots were wide receiver DeMario Douglas and defensive tackle Cory Durden.
Douglas would fall under the category of a rotation guy, although that might change this season, considering he's been working with the starters at training camp. The wide receiver was a productive playmaker last season, recording 31 catches for 447 yards and three touchdowns.
Meanwhile, Durden was initially signed by the Patriots as a member of the practice squad. However, he worked his way up the depth chart and became a regular contributor later in the season.
#douglas #durden
Barnwell used all backup players and rotation guys to make a 53-man roster. He forced himself to take at least one backup from each team, but he did not take more than two players. His main goal was to go after players who participate regularly on special teams that help fill out the backend of the lineup.
It's also worth noting that he wanted to incorporate rookies on his team. However, the Patriots did not have a rookie representative in this situation. The players Barnwell chose for the Patriots were wide receiver DeMario Douglas and defensive tackle Cory Durden.
Douglas would fall under the category of a rotation guy, although that might change this season, considering he's been working with the starters at training camp. The wide receiver was a productive playmaker last season, recording 31 catches for 447 yards and three touchdowns.
Meanwhile, Durden was initially signed by the Patriots as a member of the practice squad. However, he worked his way up the depth chart and became a regular contributor later in the season.
#douglas #durden
3 months ago
New England Patriots offensive tackle Will Campbell is entering a crucial sophomore season in 2026.
The Patriots will have to decide if he is the long-term answer at the left tackle position. However, ESPN's Bill Barnwell put together a hypothetical list of players worth a first-round draft pick in trade value. Campbell, the Patriots' 2025 first-round draft pick, made the list.
The LSU product had a strong rookie season before going down with an MCL injury in a Week 12 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. He never reached the same level of play when returning from that injury for the playoffs. It culminated in the rookie allowing 14 pressures against the Seattle Seahawks at Super Bowl LX.
Barnwell explained why he believes Campbell is worthy of a first-round draft pick and more:
"Campbell was a top-five pick a year ago in a much better draft, and while the LSU product saw his first season end in brutal fashion as he was overwhelmed in the Super Bowl, closer inspection has suggested that his struggles were a product of returning quickly from a knee injury as opposed to issues with his levers. Campbell was playing solid football before the injury, and there are enough teams that see him as a left tackle (and need help at the position) to justify something more than a first-rounder for a player who is still only 22."
#round
The Patriots will have to decide if he is the long-term answer at the left tackle position. However, ESPN's Bill Barnwell put together a hypothetical list of players worth a first-round draft pick in trade value. Campbell, the Patriots' 2025 first-round draft pick, made the list.
The LSU product had a strong rookie season before going down with an MCL injury in a Week 12 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. He never reached the same level of play when returning from that injury for the playoffs. It culminated in the rookie allowing 14 pressures against the Seattle Seahawks at Super Bowl LX.
Barnwell explained why he believes Campbell is worthy of a first-round draft pick and more:
"Campbell was a top-five pick a year ago in a much better draft, and while the LSU product saw his first season end in brutal fashion as he was overwhelmed in the Super Bowl, closer inspection has suggested that his struggles were a product of returning quickly from a knee injury as opposed to issues with his levers. Campbell was playing solid football before the injury, and there are enough teams that see him as a left tackle (and need help at the position) to justify something more than a first-rounder for a player who is still only 22."
#round
3 months ago
Jared Goff. Amon-Ra St. Brown. Jahmyr Gibbs. Aidan Hutchinson. Brian Branch. Kerby Joseph.
The Detroit Lions have their main stars that are household names and lead the charge. They also have a few unsung heroes that can make big contributions. Players that can step in when their number is called and keep the team afloat.
Detroit had one such player, ironically a player they just added this offseason, named to ESPN's recent list of their All-Backup Team.
That player is wide receiver and likely main returner Greg Dortch, formerly of the Arizona Cardinals. Here's what ESPN's Bill Barnwell had to say about Dortch and his placement on this team:
We're also going to need to take some shots on nontraditional players. The 5-foot-7 Dortch wasn't able to persuade the Cardinals to put him on the field for significant stretches of time, but he has been a reliable pair of hands out of the slot, dropping just three of his 142 targets over the past four seasons. Dortch can also back up Chimere Dikeon punt and kick returns, providing some much-needed depth at returner.
#player #returner
The Detroit Lions have their main stars that are household names and lead the charge. They also have a few unsung heroes that can make big contributions. Players that can step in when their number is called and keep the team afloat.
Detroit had one such player, ironically a player they just added this offseason, named to ESPN's recent list of their All-Backup Team.
That player is wide receiver and likely main returner Greg Dortch, formerly of the Arizona Cardinals. Here's what ESPN's Bill Barnwell had to say about Dortch and his placement on this team:
We're also going to need to take some shots on nontraditional players. The 5-foot-7 Dortch wasn't able to persuade the Cardinals to put him on the field for significant stretches of time, but he has been a reliable pair of hands out of the slot, dropping just three of his 142 targets over the past four seasons. Dortch can also back up Chimere Dikeon punt and kick returns, providing some much-needed depth at returner.
#player #returner
3 months ago
The Detroit Lions have already seen their defense undergo significant changes this offseason, but one new trade proposal suggests general manager Brad Holmes may not be done adding talent.
According to Max Dible of Heavy.com, one intriguing possibility would send Pittsburgh Steelers edge rusher Alex Highsmith to Detroit, giving the Lions another proven pass rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson.
Dible pointed to comments from ESPN's Bill Barnwell, who recently identified Highsmith as a logical trade candidate.
The Steelers have committed major money to both T.J. Watt and Nick Herbig, leaving Highsmith in an interesting position despite having two years remaining on his current contract. Because much of the money left on his deal is not guaranteed, Pittsburgh would have flexibility if it decided to move him.
Barnwell believes that combination of contract structure and the Steelers' financial commitments elsewhere could make Highsmith available either before the regular season or ahead of the NFL trade deadline.
According to Max Dible of Heavy.com, one intriguing possibility would send Pittsburgh Steelers edge rusher Alex Highsmith to Detroit, giving the Lions another proven pass rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson.
Dible pointed to comments from ESPN's Bill Barnwell, who recently identified Highsmith as a logical trade candidate.
The Steelers have committed major money to both T.J. Watt and Nick Herbig, leaving Highsmith in an interesting position despite having two years remaining on his current contract. Because much of the money left on his deal is not guaranteed, Pittsburgh would have flexibility if it decided to move him.
Barnwell believes that combination of contract structure and the Steelers' financial commitments elsewhere could make Highsmith available either before the regular season or ahead of the NFL trade deadline.
3 months ago
Seven San Francisco 49ers found spots on ESPN's newly unveiled "Domestic Cup of American Football," an exercise from ***** yst Bill Barnwell inspired by the World Cup that splits the NFL into eight regional squads based on where players attended high school.
The idea, detailed on ESPN.com, borrows its premise from a rugby tradition overseas. Barnwell built 30-man rosters for California, Texas and Florida as standalone teams, plus five additional regional groupings, then applied rules on injuries, retirements and positional needs to keep things realistic for a hypothetical September tournament.
The 49ers' footprint spans three of those teams. On the California roster, linebacker Fred Warner and cornerback Deommodore Lenoir both made the cut. The Southwest team landed the 49ers' backfield tandem, with quarterback Brock Purdy and running back Christian McCaffrey both suiting up.
Edge rusher Nick Bosa represents San Francisco on the Florida roster, joining an edge-rushing group Barnwell called the state's deepest position group in the entire tournament. Left tackle Trent Williams and wide receiver Mike Evans both landed on Texas, with Evans slotting in as the fourth receiver behind Jaxon Smith-Njigba, CeeDee Lamb and Garrett Wilson, and Williams anchoring the tackle spot alongside Eagles star Lane Johnson.
Kittle was the notable 49er left off any roster, a byproduct of Barnwell's rule tying eligibility to players expected to be healthy for a September start. Kittle is still working back from the torn Achilles that ended his 2025 season.
The idea, detailed on ESPN.com, borrows its premise from a rugby tradition overseas. Barnwell built 30-man rosters for California, Texas and Florida as standalone teams, plus five additional regional groupings, then applied rules on injuries, retirements and positional needs to keep things realistic for a hypothetical September tournament.
The 49ers' footprint spans three of those teams. On the California roster, linebacker Fred Warner and cornerback Deommodore Lenoir both made the cut. The Southwest team landed the 49ers' backfield tandem, with quarterback Brock Purdy and running back Christian McCaffrey both suiting up.
Edge rusher Nick Bosa represents San Francisco on the Florida roster, joining an edge-rushing group Barnwell called the state's deepest position group in the entire tournament. Left tackle Trent Williams and wide receiver Mike Evans both landed on Texas, with Evans slotting in as the fourth receiver behind Jaxon Smith-Njigba, CeeDee Lamb and Garrett Wilson, and Williams anchoring the tackle spot alongside Eagles star Lane Johnson.
Kittle was the notable 49er left off any roster, a byproduct of Barnwell's rule tying eligibility to players expected to be healthy for a September start. Kittle is still working back from the torn Achilles that ended his 2025 season.
3 months ago
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are an offensive unit often considered among the best in the NFL. In 2025, injuries hampered them a bit, and they missed out on winnable games down the stretch and the playoffs. Heading into 2026, most of the offense returns, with some additions and subtractions, and now they are being reviewed by ESPN.
ESPN's Bill Barnwell ranked all the offensive skill player groups in the NFL. For the Bucs, they dipped a bit in the rankings from 7th to 22nd in 2026, and he broke it down by position group in his reasoning. For the wide receiver, it all centered around the uncertainty surrounding so many of the players in the position group.
Barnwell writes, "What can we count on from the Bucs' new 'Big Three' in 2026? Emeka Egbuka was awesome to start the season, averaging 2.3 yards per route run through Week 10. He was down to 1.3 afterward, below guys such as Adonai Mitchell and Xavier Hutchinson. Chris Godwin Jr. came back from his gruesome ankle injury, dealt with fibula issues after initially returning and wasn't back for good until Week 12. He had solid games against the Cardinals and Dolphins, but at 30 and with multiple serious injuries in his past, I'm not sure it's realistic to project a peak-caliber season from Godwin, even after Evans' departure."
The departure of Evans is proving to be more of a hit than many folks had expected. Having an aging Chris Godwin doesn't help matters, but folks are also discounting Emeka Egbuka's ability. Things should allow them to outplay that 22nd ranking, especially if the wide receivers overperform.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: What did ESPN think of the Bucs' wide receivers heading into 2026?
ESPN's Bill Barnwell ranked all the offensive skill player groups in the NFL. For the Bucs, they dipped a bit in the rankings from 7th to 22nd in 2026, and he broke it down by position group in his reasoning. For the wide receiver, it all centered around the uncertainty surrounding so many of the players in the position group.
Barnwell writes, "What can we count on from the Bucs' new 'Big Three' in 2026? Emeka Egbuka was awesome to start the season, averaging 2.3 yards per route run through Week 10. He was down to 1.3 afterward, below guys such as Adonai Mitchell and Xavier Hutchinson. Chris Godwin Jr. came back from his gruesome ankle injury, dealt with fibula issues after initially returning and wasn't back for good until Week 12. He had solid games against the Cardinals and Dolphins, but at 30 and with multiple serious injuries in his past, I'm not sure it's realistic to project a peak-caliber season from Godwin, even after Evans' departure."
The departure of Evans is proving to be more of a hit than many folks had expected. Having an aging Chris Godwin doesn't help matters, but folks are also discounting Emeka Egbuka's ability. Things should allow them to outplay that 22nd ranking, especially if the wide receivers overperform.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: What did ESPN think of the Bucs' wide receivers heading into 2026?
3 months ago
The Buffalo Bills did not have a great receiver group last season. If people like ESPN’s Bill Barnwell are to be believed, the team’s receiving corps is still bad this season despite adding DJ Moore via trade and Skyler Bell via a fourth-round draft pick.
Does this lack of talent at the receiver position mean that some unheralded names will make the team this year? In today’s installment of “91 players in 91 days,” we discuss a receiver who would love for that to be the case.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Name: Stephen Gosnell
Number: 89
Position: WR
Does this lack of talent at the receiver position mean that some unheralded names will make the team this year? In today’s installment of “91 players in 91 days,” we discuss a receiver who would love for that to be the case.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Name: Stephen Gosnell
Number: 89
Position: WR
3 months ago
There are few Pittsburgh Steelers with more to prove in 2026 than wide receiver DK Metcalf . The former Pro Bowler is currently the sixth-highest paid receiver in terms of yearly money, yet his production in 2025 didn't come close to backing up his contract.
Metcalf caught just 59 passes in 2025 on 99 targets in 2025, and is 1.98 yards per route run was tied for 23rd in the league (min. 50 routes run). His performances were also very hit or miss. As Bill Barnwell of ESPN points out, Metcalf had four games of 85+ receiving yards, while the remainder of his games played all saw him total less than 55 yards.
With that in mind, Joey Bray and myself discussed Metcalf's placement in the 2026 hierarchy of wide receivers on the latest episode of Steelers Central and came up with respective lists of pass-catchers we would take ahead of Metcalf.
After going team-by-team, I came away with 22 receivers I would take before Metcalf. Those players, in no particular order, are as follows:
Ja'Marr Chase
Metcalf caught just 59 passes in 2025 on 99 targets in 2025, and is 1.98 yards per route run was tied for 23rd in the league (min. 50 routes run). His performances were also very hit or miss. As Bill Barnwell of ESPN points out, Metcalf had four games of 85+ receiving yards, while the remainder of his games played all saw him total less than 55 yards.
With that in mind, Joey Bray and myself discussed Metcalf's placement in the 2026 hierarchy of wide receivers on the latest episode of Steelers Central and came up with respective lists of pass-catchers we would take ahead of Metcalf.
After going team-by-team, I came away with 22 receivers I would take before Metcalf. Those players, in no particular order, are as follows:
Ja'Marr Chase
3 months ago
Most of the focus for the Houston Texans on offense comes from the trenches. Houston struggled to find consistency in both run blocking and pass protection down the stretch last season, which certainly derailed any chance of a postseason push.
But the Texans fixed those woes on paper this offseason with the trade of Tytus Howard and the signings of Wyatt Teller and Braden Smith. Just for good measure, Houston added more depth to the trenches with the selections of Georgia Tech's Keylan Rutledge in Round 1 and Oklahoma's Febechi Nwaiwu on Day 3.
Ok, so what's the problem? Well, now everyone will turn to the faults of the supporting cast around Pro Bowl quarterback C.J. Stroud.
Is the trio of Nico Collins, Jayden Higgins and Dalton Schultz good enough to keep the Texans in contention? How about the run game headlined by newcomer David Montgomery? Is there at least a chance that the old Tank Dell could become a staple in the passing game?
On paper, no, at least not according to ESPN's Bill Barnwell, who listed the Texans' weaponry of tight ends, running backs and wide receivers at No. 24 out of 32 entering the 2026 season.
But the Texans fixed those woes on paper this offseason with the trade of Tytus Howard and the signings of Wyatt Teller and Braden Smith. Just for good measure, Houston added more depth to the trenches with the selections of Georgia Tech's Keylan Rutledge in Round 1 and Oklahoma's Febechi Nwaiwu on Day 3.
Ok, so what's the problem? Well, now everyone will turn to the faults of the supporting cast around Pro Bowl quarterback C.J. Stroud.
Is the trio of Nico Collins, Jayden Higgins and Dalton Schultz good enough to keep the Texans in contention? How about the run game headlined by newcomer David Montgomery? Is there at least a chance that the old Tank Dell could become a staple in the passing game?
On paper, no, at least not according to ESPN's Bill Barnwell, who listed the Texans' weaponry of tight ends, running backs and wide receivers at No. 24 out of 32 entering the 2026 season.
4 months ago
The Green Bay Packers offense finished last season ranked 11th in scoring despite dealing with a myriad of key injuries throughout the year. As they now prepare for the 2026 NFL season, there is some mixed praise for the supporting cast around Jordan Love.
ESPN‘s Bill Barnwell ranked the worst and best NFL supporting casts in 2026 ahead of training camp, focusing specifically on the skill players. Green Bay’s cast of offensive weapons was ranked 17th in the NFL.
“I swear this isn’t a running joke. If there’s any group of playmakers that settles in right around average on an annual basis, though, it’s the young talent in Green Bay. If everyone was healthy and delivered on their expectations, this could be a top-five unit overnight. And the combination of QB Jordan Love and coach Matt LaFleur helps elevate everyone in this offense for stretches. There are weeks where each individual looks like a high-end playmaker or difference-maker.”
ESPN’s Bill Barnwell on the Green Bay Packers’ skill players on offense
Related: Latest Packers News on Tucker Kraft Contract Extension Talks
ESPN‘s Bill Barnwell ranked the worst and best NFL supporting casts in 2026 ahead of training camp, focusing specifically on the skill players. Green Bay’s cast of offensive weapons was ranked 17th in the NFL.
“I swear this isn’t a running joke. If there’s any group of playmakers that settles in right around average on an annual basis, though, it’s the young talent in Green Bay. If everyone was healthy and delivered on their expectations, this could be a top-five unit overnight. And the combination of QB Jordan Love and coach Matt LaFleur helps elevate everyone in this offense for stretches. There are weeks where each individual looks like a high-end playmaker or difference-maker.”
ESPN’s Bill Barnwell on the Green Bay Packers’ skill players on offense
Related: Latest Packers News on Tucker Kraft Contract Extension Talks
4 months ago
The New England Patriots are a deep team.
They added several marquee players to their roster this offseason. New England maintained the strength of their front four and their secondary by replacing the departing K'Lavon Chaisson and Jaylinn Hawkins with Dre'Mont Jones and Kevin Byard. They also made many improvements to their offensive line, but their offensive weapons around quarterback Drake Maye are the best they've been since he entered the league.
According to ESPN's Bill Barnwell in his ranking of the NFL's wide receiver, tight end and running back groups of playmakers for next season, the Patriots' unit ranks No. 10 in the league.
"The top 10 starts with the Patriots, who added an elite receiver to the mix after trading for A.J. Brown this summer," Barnwell said. "Brown left Philadelphia after a frustrating 2025 season, but there's still plenty of evidence that Brown is one of the top wideouts in all of football. … While there's a drop-off from Brown to the rest of the lineup, the Patriots are much deeper than they've been in years."
Brown and Doubs are one of the best wide receiver duos in the league, with upside that might potentially be getting overlooked for next season. Henderson and Stevenson are two running backs who have the capability to rush for 1,000 yards, and the addition of rookie tight end Eli Raridon gives New England a good replacement for Austin Hooper behind Hunter Henry for next season.
They added several marquee players to their roster this offseason. New England maintained the strength of their front four and their secondary by replacing the departing K'Lavon Chaisson and Jaylinn Hawkins with Dre'Mont Jones and Kevin Byard. They also made many improvements to their offensive line, but their offensive weapons around quarterback Drake Maye are the best they've been since he entered the league.
According to ESPN's Bill Barnwell in his ranking of the NFL's wide receiver, tight end and running back groups of playmakers for next season, the Patriots' unit ranks No. 10 in the league.
"The top 10 starts with the Patriots, who added an elite receiver to the mix after trading for A.J. Brown this summer," Barnwell said. "Brown left Philadelphia after a frustrating 2025 season, but there's still plenty of evidence that Brown is one of the top wideouts in all of football. … While there's a drop-off from Brown to the rest of the lineup, the Patriots are much deeper than they've been in years."
Brown and Doubs are one of the best wide receiver duos in the league, with upside that might potentially be getting overlooked for next season. Henderson and Stevenson are two running backs who have the capability to rush for 1,000 yards, and the addition of rookie tight end Eli Raridon gives New England a good replacement for Austin Hooper behind Hunter Henry for next season.
4 months ago
The 2026 NFL Supplemental Draft is a hot topic following the likely entry of Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby, who was forced into the process after a suspension related to betting on NCAA games. While the supplemental draft is rarely a focal point for teams looking to find a franchise quarterback, Sorsby's combination of tools and the unique circumstances around his entry have made this a particularly intriguing event for front offices around the league.
On the "Football 301" podcast, Yahoo Sports' Nate Tice and guest Bill Barnwell of ESPN discussed the ins and outs of Sorsby's profile, his fit in the NFL, and — most importantly —the kinds of teams that could roll the dice on acquiring him via the supplemental draft's blind-bidding process.
Tice and Barnwell agreed: No first-round bids are coming, and a second would be a surprise. The sweet spot: a late third- or early fourth-round bid, potentially devalued given the blind auction nature and positional inflation at QB.
Sorsby is not the "next Mahomes" (despite some aggressive internet comps) — but in a league desperate for viable QBs, he could command significant mid-round interest.
As Tice summed up, "It only takes one," and in the supplement draft, with its unique risk/reward dynamics, Sorsby's path into the league could hinge on which front office trusts his talent over his off-field red flags. This will be the rare supplemental draft worth watching.
On the "Football 301" podcast, Yahoo Sports' Nate Tice and guest Bill Barnwell of ESPN discussed the ins and outs of Sorsby's profile, his fit in the NFL, and — most importantly —the kinds of teams that could roll the dice on acquiring him via the supplemental draft's blind-bidding process.
Tice and Barnwell agreed: No first-round bids are coming, and a second would be a surprise. The sweet spot: a late third- or early fourth-round bid, potentially devalued given the blind auction nature and positional inflation at QB.
Sorsby is not the "next Mahomes" (despite some aggressive internet comps) — but in a league desperate for viable QBs, he could command significant mid-round interest.
As Tice summed up, "It only takes one," and in the supplement draft, with its unique risk/reward dynamics, Sorsby's path into the league could hinge on which front office trusts his talent over his off-field red flags. This will be the rare supplemental draft worth watching.
4 months ago
Nate Tice & Bill Barnwell dive into Brendan Sorsby’s value in the NFL supplemental draft before breaking down a few NFL trends that make them go “hmmm…”
The duo start with Brendan Sorsby planning to enter the supplemental draft, diving into Sorsby’s potential value, how he stacks up as a quarterback prospect, potential landing spots and more.
Next, Nate & Bill reveal 7 NFL trends from this offseason that could give us clues to where the NFL is headed in 2026. The duo cover changing under center and pass protection trends, whether the Los Angeles Rams will finally adopt a no-huddle offense, if the Los Angeles Chargers are about to figure out the run game and much more. Class is in session: this one’s for the football nerds.
(1:35) - 2026 World Cup thoughts
(7:45) - Brendan Sorsby’s value in the NFL supplemental draft
The duo start with Brendan Sorsby planning to enter the supplemental draft, diving into Sorsby’s potential value, how he stacks up as a quarterback prospect, potential landing spots and more.
Next, Nate & Bill reveal 7 NFL trends from this offseason that could give us clues to where the NFL is headed in 2026. The duo cover changing under center and pass protection trends, whether the Los Angeles Rams will finally adopt a no-huddle offense, if the Los Angeles Chargers are about to figure out the run game and much more. Class is in session: this one’s for the football nerds.
(1:35) - 2026 World Cup thoughts
(7:45) - Brendan Sorsby’s value in the NFL supplemental draft
6 months ago
NFL rumors: Eagles make bombshell Maxx Crosby trade with Raiders in ESPN mock draft
NFL rumors: Eagles make bombshell Maxx Crosby trade with Raiders in ESPN mock draft appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Las Vegas Raiders just can’t shake the Maxx Crosby trade rumors. Las Vegas seemingly wants to keep Crosby after their epic trade collapse with the Ravens back in March. But ****** ysts are still toying with some possible Crosby trade scenarios.
ESPN’s Bill Barnwell released a new mock draft on Monday that includes hypothetical trade
NFL rumors: Eagles make bombshell Maxx Crosby trade with Raiders in ESPN mock draft appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Las Vegas Raiders just can’t shake the Maxx Crosby trade rumors. Las Vegas seemingly wants to keep Crosby after their epic trade collapse with the Ravens back in March. But ****** ysts are still toying with some possible Crosby trade scenarios.
ESPN’s Bill Barnwell released a new mock draft on Monday that includes hypothetical trade
