7 days ago
Jones spent time in Atlanta as both a quarterback and head coach, leaving a unique mark on the franchise's history.
The Atlanta Falcons have lost another familiar figure from their history, as former quarterback and head coach June Jones passed away on Thursday at the age of 73.
Jones had a lengthy football career that took him across the NFL, college football, and beyond, but his connection to Atlanta was particularly unique. It's not often that a player gets the opportunity to return to the same franchise as a coach, much less lead the team as its head coach. Jones was one of the rare individuals who experienced both sides of that relationship with the Falcons.
Jones originally joined Atlanta as an undrafted quarterback in 1977, spending five seasons with the franchise through 1981. Primarily serving as a backup, he appeared in 17 games and threw for 923 yards and three touchdowns. His playing career wasn't particularly memorable statistically, but his time in Atlanta would prove to be just the beginning of his relationship with the franchise.
After transitioning into coaching, Jones eventually returned to Atlanta in 1991 as offensive coordinator under Jerry Glanville. When Glanville departed following the 1993 season, Jones was promoted to head coach, a position he held from 1994 through 1996.
#jones #atlanta #coach #falcons
The Atlanta Falcons have lost another familiar figure from their history, as former quarterback and head coach June Jones passed away on Thursday at the age of 73.
Jones had a lengthy football career that took him across the NFL, college football, and beyond, but his connection to Atlanta was particularly unique. It's not often that a player gets the opportunity to return to the same franchise as a coach, much less lead the team as its head coach. Jones was one of the rare individuals who experienced both sides of that relationship with the Falcons.
Jones originally joined Atlanta as an undrafted quarterback in 1977, spending five seasons with the franchise through 1981. Primarily serving as a backup, he appeared in 17 games and threw for 923 yards and three touchdowns. His playing career wasn't particularly memorable statistically, but his time in Atlanta would prove to be just the beginning of his relationship with the franchise.
After transitioning into coaching, Jones eventually returned to Atlanta in 1991 as offensive coordinator under Jerry Glanville. When Glanville departed following the 1993 season, Jones was promoted to head coach, a position he held from 1994 through 1996.
#jones #atlanta #coach #falcons
18 days ago
In a way, the Dallas Cowboys' loss to the Buccaneers on Thursday night at home was not quite as bad a loss as what we saw on Sunday in Green Bay, at least from coach brian Schottenheimer's perspective. Sounds absurd, sure, given that the Cowboys lost to a previously winless team that was starting an undrafted rookie, Jalon Daniels, on their home field last week. But there was a chance that could be viewed as a one-off. There was a chance that could be rock bottom, and that the Cowboys could rebuild this season from there. Starting against the Packers at Lambeau Field.
Instead, what we saw on Sunday was confirmation of the worst fears that lingered from the Buccaneers game: That this team and its NFL Super Bowl aspirations had been broken in that loss, that something snapped and might not be able to be repaired. Because, though the defense played better on Sunday–after the first half, at least–the offense appeared beyond repair, a steep three-week drop that has seen Dak Prescott throw four interceptions in two games, after having thrown just four in nine games before that.
Around Cowboys media and fans, the finger of blame is increasingly turning to Schottenheimer, and calls for the team to take action are mounting.
From Nick Harris of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram: "Believe it or not, this roster is good enough. Is it elite? No. Is it great? No. But it should be good enough, and it's nowhere close to even average. The Cowboys are on a train to nowhere, and the blame falls on the coaches leading it."
Believe it or not, this roster is good enough.Is it elite? No. Is it great? No. But it should be good enough, and it's nowhere close to even average.The Cowboys are on a train to nowhere, and the blame falls on the coaches leading it.
#good #buccaneers
Instead, what we saw on Sunday was confirmation of the worst fears that lingered from the Buccaneers game: That this team and its NFL Super Bowl aspirations had been broken in that loss, that something snapped and might not be able to be repaired. Because, though the defense played better on Sunday–after the first half, at least–the offense appeared beyond repair, a steep three-week drop that has seen Dak Prescott throw four interceptions in two games, after having thrown just four in nine games before that.
Around Cowboys media and fans, the finger of blame is increasingly turning to Schottenheimer, and calls for the team to take action are mounting.
From Nick Harris of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram: "Believe it or not, this roster is good enough. Is it elite? No. Is it great? No. But it should be good enough, and it's nowhere close to even average. The Cowboys are on a train to nowhere, and the blame falls on the coaches leading it."
Believe it or not, this roster is good enough.Is it elite? No. Is it great? No. But it should be good enough, and it's nowhere close to even average.The Cowboys are on a train to nowhere, and the blame falls on the coaches leading it.
#good #buccaneers
18 days ago
Nate Tice & Hayden Winks dive into their instant takeaways from Week 6 of NFL action. The show kicks off with reactions from the Green Bay Packers getting a win against a Dallas Cowboys offense that could not get rolling on Sunday Night.
This week's Pick 6 begins with a Philadelphia Eagles team that seems to be in deep trouble, losing their fourth straight, this time against a surging Carolina Panthers offense. The guys jump to the preseason Super Bowl favorite Los Angeles Rams losing another division game to the Arizona Cardinals. Is it time to panic in Los Angeles? Next, Aaron Rodgers and the Pittsburgh Steelers pull off a comeback victory against undrafted rookie QB Jalon Daniels and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Nate & Hayden then discuss their reactions to the Houston Texans beating the Jacksonville Jaguars across the pond in London. Then, they take a look at the New Orleans Saints scoring 34 unanswered points against the New York Giants. Is there a QB competition brewing between Jameis Winston and J.J. McCarthy, who saw his first action in a Giants uniform on Sunday? To close out Pick 6, the guys break down Caleb Williams' return for the Chicago Bears in their triumph over the Atlanta Falcons.
Lastly, Nate & Hayden hit on some Extra Credit, including reactions to the Tennessee ******* ans getting their first win of the season against the struggling Indianapolis Colts, an exciting shootout between the Buffalo Bills and Las Vegas Raiders, and the Cleveland Browns climbing the mountain to lead the AFC North with their win against the Baltimore Ravens.
(1:55) - Packers shut down Cowboys
#reactions #sunday
This week's Pick 6 begins with a Philadelphia Eagles team that seems to be in deep trouble, losing their fourth straight, this time against a surging Carolina Panthers offense. The guys jump to the preseason Super Bowl favorite Los Angeles Rams losing another division game to the Arizona Cardinals. Is it time to panic in Los Angeles? Next, Aaron Rodgers and the Pittsburgh Steelers pull off a comeback victory against undrafted rookie QB Jalon Daniels and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Nate & Hayden then discuss their reactions to the Houston Texans beating the Jacksonville Jaguars across the pond in London. Then, they take a look at the New Orleans Saints scoring 34 unanswered points against the New York Giants. Is there a QB competition brewing between Jameis Winston and J.J. McCarthy, who saw his first action in a Giants uniform on Sunday? To close out Pick 6, the guys break down Caleb Williams' return for the Chicago Bears in their triumph over the Atlanta Falcons.
Lastly, Nate & Hayden hit on some Extra Credit, including reactions to the Tennessee ******* ans getting their first win of the season against the struggling Indianapolis Colts, an exciting shootout between the Buffalo Bills and Las Vegas Raiders, and the Cleveland Browns climbing the mountain to lead the AFC North with their win against the Baltimore Ravens.
(1:55) - Packers shut down Cowboys
#reactions #sunday
2 months ago
Former Indiana State Sycamore Johnathan Edwards was waived Monday by the Indianapolis Colts.
The move followed the Colts' 41-23 loss at home to Baltimore in Sunday's season opener. Edwards didn't play against the Ravens, and was among six Colts players declared inactive for Week 1. Indianapolis promoted Kenneth Harris from the practice squad prior to the game, with Harris then occupying Edwards' special teams roles.
The 6-foot-1, 201-pound Edwards was originally signed by the Colts as an undrafted free agent May 9, 2025.
As a rookie, Edwards played in 14 games (with five starts) and registered 24 tackles (18 solo), three passes defensed and two special teams stops.
Collegiately, Edwards appeared in 45 career games at Tulane (2024) and Indiana State (2021-23) and recorded 124 tackles (86 solo), 1.5 tackles for loss, 22 passes defensed and one forced fumble.
#colts #state #indianapolis #teams
The move followed the Colts' 41-23 loss at home to Baltimore in Sunday's season opener. Edwards didn't play against the Ravens, and was among six Colts players declared inactive for Week 1. Indianapolis promoted Kenneth Harris from the practice squad prior to the game, with Harris then occupying Edwards' special teams roles.
The 6-foot-1, 201-pound Edwards was originally signed by the Colts as an undrafted free agent May 9, 2025.
As a rookie, Edwards played in 14 games (with five starts) and registered 24 tackles (18 solo), three passes defensed and two special teams stops.
Collegiately, Edwards appeared in 45 career games at Tulane (2024) and Indiana State (2021-23) and recorded 124 tackles (86 solo), 1.5 tackles for loss, 22 passes defensed and one forced fumble.
#colts #state #indianapolis #teams
2 months ago
ATLANTA (AP) — The Atlanta Falcons' opening loss at Pittsburgh only added more uncertainty to the quarterback question that has persisted since the start of training camp.
Cooper Rush's performance in the Falcons' 20-13 loss to the Steelers on Sunday had some fans wondering why undrafted rookie Jack Strand wasn't given an opportunity and more fans asking when Michael Penix Jr. and Tua Tagovailoa will be ready to play. Rush threw two interceptions, including T.J. Watt's pick-6 in the fourth quarter. He completed 12 of 22 passes for 143 yards and a touchdown.
Rush was named the starter on Friday after Tagovailoa was ruled out with an oblique injury. Rush started despite having back spasms on Saturday. Coach Kevin Stefanski said Rush was close to full health, but the conservative game plan with an emphasis on short passes placed too much of a burden on running back Bijan Robinson.
Stefanski said Monday he had no update on Tagovailoa or on Penix, who did not play in the preseason as he continues his recovery from a torn ligament in his left knee that ended his 2025 season. Penix was cleared for full team drills late in training camp.
Both Tagovailoa and Penix were inactive against the Steelers, and it is not known if either will return for next Sunday's home opener against Carolina.
#penix #steelers #loss #training
Cooper Rush's performance in the Falcons' 20-13 loss to the Steelers on Sunday had some fans wondering why undrafted rookie Jack Strand wasn't given an opportunity and more fans asking when Michael Penix Jr. and Tua Tagovailoa will be ready to play. Rush threw two interceptions, including T.J. Watt's pick-6 in the fourth quarter. He completed 12 of 22 passes for 143 yards and a touchdown.
Rush was named the starter on Friday after Tagovailoa was ruled out with an oblique injury. Rush started despite having back spasms on Saturday. Coach Kevin Stefanski said Rush was close to full health, but the conservative game plan with an emphasis on short passes placed too much of a burden on running back Bijan Robinson.
Stefanski said Monday he had no update on Tagovailoa or on Penix, who did not play in the preseason as he continues his recovery from a torn ligament in his left knee that ended his 2025 season. Penix was cleared for full team drills late in training camp.
Both Tagovailoa and Penix were inactive against the Steelers, and it is not known if either will return for next Sunday's home opener against Carolina.
#penix #steelers #loss #training
2 months ago
The Indianapolis waived cornerback Johnathan Edwards on Monday, the team announced.
Edwards was inactive for Sunday's game against the Ravens.
He originally signed with the Colts as an undrafted free agent on May 9, 2025.
As a rookie, he appeared in 14 games, with five starts, and totaled 24 tackles, three passes defensed and two special teams stops.
Collegiately, Edwards appeared in 45 career games at Tulane (2024) and Indiana State (2021-23) and recorded 124 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, 22 passes defensed and one forced fumble.
#edwards #appeared #johnathan #Monday
Edwards was inactive for Sunday's game against the Ravens.
He originally signed with the Colts as an undrafted free agent on May 9, 2025.
As a rookie, he appeared in 14 games, with five starts, and totaled 24 tackles, three passes defensed and two special teams stops.
Collegiately, Edwards appeared in 45 career games at Tulane (2024) and Indiana State (2021-23) and recorded 124 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, 22 passes defensed and one forced fumble.
#edwards #appeared #johnathan #Monday
2 months ago
On Monday afternoon, the Kansas City Chiefs announced two practice squad elevations ahead of the "Monday Night Football" matchup with the Denver Broncos at Arrowhead Stadium.
Defensive tackle Marcus Harris and fullback Ben VanSumeren will be available to play against the Broncos.
Harris was a standout during training camp and the preseason, doing enough to make the initial 53-man roster on cutdown weekend before the team waived him the following day. The second-year player from Auburn cleared waivers and returned to the Chiefs' practice squad; the interior lineman wears No. 68, filling in for defensive tackle Omarr Norman-Lott (IR) as a reserve defensive tackle.
VanSumeren could be the Chiefs' first pure fullback to take the field since Michael Burton in 2022. The fourth-year player entered the NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles as an undrafted free agent linebacker from Michigan. Listed at 6 feet 2 inches tall and 258 pounds, VanSumeren switched to the fullback position in 2025, appearing in one game for the Eagles.
#defensive #fullback #harris #Eagles
Defensive tackle Marcus Harris and fullback Ben VanSumeren will be available to play against the Broncos.
Harris was a standout during training camp and the preseason, doing enough to make the initial 53-man roster on cutdown weekend before the team waived him the following day. The second-year player from Auburn cleared waivers and returned to the Chiefs' practice squad; the interior lineman wears No. 68, filling in for defensive tackle Omarr Norman-Lott (IR) as a reserve defensive tackle.
VanSumeren could be the Chiefs' first pure fullback to take the field since Michael Burton in 2022. The fourth-year player entered the NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles as an undrafted free agent linebacker from Michigan. Listed at 6 feet 2 inches tall and 258 pounds, VanSumeren switched to the fullback position in 2025, appearing in one game for the Eagles.
#defensive #fullback #harris #Eagles
2 months ago
Kalib Perry is officially cleared to play for Louisville football (for now) and will be able to play in Saturday's game against No. 16 SMU.
On Monday, Sept. 14, a Jefferson County judge granted the linebacker's motion to join a lawsuit that granted several other athletes a temporary restraining order on the NCAA's stay request in the Wisne v. NCAA case. The stay request deemed those who entered college in 2022 ineligible of receiving a fifth year under the NCAA's new 5-for-5 ruling. Cardinals cornerback Jabari Mack is also part of the TRO and had two tackles and two pass breakups in the season opener.
Perry missed the first two games but is listed on the Cards' 2026 roster. He and Mack announced plans to come back to Louisville under the new 5-for-5 rule Aug. 15. They were active participants during the latter stages of fall camp until the NCAA's stay request was granted Aug. 21. Mack wasn't affected, having been part of the initial TRO, while Perry was deemed ineligible.
"Pretty much every day, we just call over compliance," Louisville head football coach Jeff Brohm said Aug. 21. "They tell us what we can do and not do, and we roll with it. … If your guys are here, you'd like them to be able to practice and play. So we're hopeful that can happen."
Perry was granted a motion to join the local lawsuit and apply the TRO to his eligibility on Sept. 3 but the NCAA filed an emergency appeal, which was denied, and a regular appeal after. In response to Perry's motion, the NCAA stated Thursday that Perry's inclusion "raises complex legal and factual issues that are not part of the primary dispute before the Court." It cited the football player having entered the NFL draft, though he went undrafted, and participated in NFL minicamps with the San Francisco 49ers and Tennessee ******* ans. On Aug. 27, the ACC released a statement that banned players that "previously declared for an NFL, NBA or WNBA Draft, and did not appropriately withdraw consistent with NCAA requirements to retain eligibility."
#mack
On Monday, Sept. 14, a Jefferson County judge granted the linebacker's motion to join a lawsuit that granted several other athletes a temporary restraining order on the NCAA's stay request in the Wisne v. NCAA case. The stay request deemed those who entered college in 2022 ineligible of receiving a fifth year under the NCAA's new 5-for-5 ruling. Cardinals cornerback Jabari Mack is also part of the TRO and had two tackles and two pass breakups in the season opener.
Perry missed the first two games but is listed on the Cards' 2026 roster. He and Mack announced plans to come back to Louisville under the new 5-for-5 rule Aug. 15. They were active participants during the latter stages of fall camp until the NCAA's stay request was granted Aug. 21. Mack wasn't affected, having been part of the initial TRO, while Perry was deemed ineligible.
"Pretty much every day, we just call over compliance," Louisville head football coach Jeff Brohm said Aug. 21. "They tell us what we can do and not do, and we roll with it. … If your guys are here, you'd like them to be able to practice and play. So we're hopeful that can happen."
Perry was granted a motion to join the local lawsuit and apply the TRO to his eligibility on Sept. 3 but the NCAA filed an emergency appeal, which was denied, and a regular appeal after. In response to Perry's motion, the NCAA stated Thursday that Perry's inclusion "raises complex legal and factual issues that are not part of the primary dispute before the Court." It cited the football player having entered the NFL draft, though he went undrafted, and participated in NFL minicamps with the San Francisco 49ers and Tennessee ******* ans. On Aug. 27, the ACC released a statement that banned players that "previously declared for an NFL, NBA or WNBA Draft, and did not appropriately withdraw consistent with NCAA requirements to retain eligibility."
#mack
2 months ago
Why Falcons likely won't bench Cooper Rush for beloved UDFA after rough Week 1 originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Atlanta Falcons have a very brutal quarterback situation during the 2026 NFL season. Michael Penix Jr. is supposed to be the starter, but he's coming off an injury and isn't 100% just yet.
Tua Tagovailoa was meant to be the starter, but he sustained an oblique injury during practice, leaving Cooper Rush to start. He, too, was dealing with an injury, but the Falcons stuck with him as the starter. That was a mistake, as he really struggled.
It wouldn't be surprising for fans and media to call for the Falcons to start beloved undrafted free agent quarterback Jack Strand in place of Rush. But, Marc Raimondi of ESPN shared why the Falcons won't make the switch, as they don't believe he's ready yet.
"It does not seem like the team thinks undrafted rookie Jack Strand, who played great in the preseason, is ready just yet," Raimondi writes.
#falcons #strand
The Atlanta Falcons have a very brutal quarterback situation during the 2026 NFL season. Michael Penix Jr. is supposed to be the starter, but he's coming off an injury and isn't 100% just yet.
Tua Tagovailoa was meant to be the starter, but he sustained an oblique injury during practice, leaving Cooper Rush to start. He, too, was dealing with an injury, but the Falcons stuck with him as the starter. That was a mistake, as he really struggled.
It wouldn't be surprising for fans and media to call for the Falcons to start beloved undrafted free agent quarterback Jack Strand in place of Rush. But, Marc Raimondi of ESPN shared why the Falcons won't make the switch, as they don't believe he's ready yet.
"It does not seem like the team thinks undrafted rookie Jack Strand, who played great in the preseason, is ready just yet," Raimondi writes.
#falcons #strand
2 months ago
According to ESPN, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is the 13th-best fantasy quarterback heading into Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season.
Mahomes is still recovering from his ACL surgery earlier this year and is expected to struggle early in the season. The six-time Pro Bowler has never been a top fantasy quarterback, but after a disappointing finish to his 2025 campaign, Mahomes has something to prove.
For fantasy managers with the two-time MVP in their lineup this week, here are Mahomes predicted stats against the Denver Broncos on 'Monday Night Football'.
On paper, Mahomes should be at a serious disadvantage in Monday's game. Starting offensive lineman Joshua Simmons is out for an undetermined amount of time with a back injury, which leaves Mahomes' blindside in the hands of rookie offensive lineman Khalil Benson. The former Indiana Hoosier went undrafted in 2026 and has now been thrust into the starting lineup to protect a generational quarterback talent.
That being said, I feel good about Mahomes' ability to produce on Monday. With reigning Super Bowl MVP running back Kenneth Walker III in the backfield, head coach Andy Reid can open up the playbook and give Mahomes plenty of opportunities.
#mahomes #week #starting #offensive
Mahomes is still recovering from his ACL surgery earlier this year and is expected to struggle early in the season. The six-time Pro Bowler has never been a top fantasy quarterback, but after a disappointing finish to his 2025 campaign, Mahomes has something to prove.
For fantasy managers with the two-time MVP in their lineup this week, here are Mahomes predicted stats against the Denver Broncos on 'Monday Night Football'.
On paper, Mahomes should be at a serious disadvantage in Monday's game. Starting offensive lineman Joshua Simmons is out for an undetermined amount of time with a back injury, which leaves Mahomes' blindside in the hands of rookie offensive lineman Khalil Benson. The former Indiana Hoosier went undrafted in 2026 and has now been thrust into the starting lineup to protect a generational quarterback talent.
That being said, I feel good about Mahomes' ability to produce on Monday. With reigning Super Bowl MVP running back Kenneth Walker III in the backfield, head coach Andy Reid can open up the playbook and give Mahomes plenty of opportunities.
#mahomes #week #starting #offensive
2 months ago
The Atlanta Falcons' quarterback situation has somehow become even more complicated ahead of their Week 1 matchup with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The team announced on Saturday that quarterback Cooper Rush is dealing with back spasms. Despite the issue though, Rush remains on track to start against Pittsburgh.
Rush had already been pushed into the starting role after Tua Tagovailoa suffered an oblique injury during Thursday's practice and was ruled out for Week 1. Michael Penix Jr. is also unavailable as he continues his recovery from the torn ACL he suffered last season.
That leaves rookie Jack Strand as Atlanta's primary backup behind Rush. The undrafted quarterback has drawn plenty of interest from Falcons fans, with many hoping to eventually see what Strand can do in regular-season action. Rush remains the clear starter for now, but his back issues could make Strand's status worth monitoring throughout Sunday's game.
#quarterback #week #pittsburgh #back
The team announced on Saturday that quarterback Cooper Rush is dealing with back spasms. Despite the issue though, Rush remains on track to start against Pittsburgh.
Rush had already been pushed into the starting role after Tua Tagovailoa suffered an oblique injury during Thursday's practice and was ruled out for Week 1. Michael Penix Jr. is also unavailable as he continues his recovery from the torn ACL he suffered last season.
That leaves rookie Jack Strand as Atlanta's primary backup behind Rush. The undrafted quarterback has drawn plenty of interest from Falcons fans, with many hoping to eventually see what Strand can do in regular-season action. Rush remains the clear starter for now, but his back issues could make Strand's status worth monitoring throughout Sunday's game.
#quarterback #week #pittsburgh #back
2 months ago
The New York Giants are completing their 53-man roster by signing wide recever/special teamer Dalen Cambre to the active roster from their practice squad, a source confirms. The move was initially reported by Art Stapleton.
The Giants had been carrying just 52 players after releasing wide receiver Darius Slayton earlier in the week.
Cambre, a former undrafted free agent, played in seven games almost exclusively on special teams for the Giants last season.
His presence means the Giants now have five wide receivers on their roster. They are also elevating wide receiver Braxton Berrios from the practice squad to be the punt returner and part of the kickoff unit, and linebacker Malik Harrison.
Here is #NYG coach John Harbaugh on 2nd-year WR Dalen Cambre, who had another good day on Wednesday. pic.twitter.com/gg0FqWCuql
#roster #dalen #squad
The Giants had been carrying just 52 players after releasing wide receiver Darius Slayton earlier in the week.
Cambre, a former undrafted free agent, played in seven games almost exclusively on special teams for the Giants last season.
His presence means the Giants now have five wide receivers on their roster. They are also elevating wide receiver Braxton Berrios from the practice squad to be the punt returner and part of the kickoff unit, and linebacker Malik Harrison.
Here is #NYG coach John Harbaugh on 2nd-year WR Dalen Cambre, who had another good day on Wednesday. pic.twitter.com/gg0FqWCuql
#roster #dalen #squad
2 months ago
Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs was rewarded in August with a three-year, $67.5 million contract extension, a deal that made him the highest-paid running back in NFL history as he enters his fourth season. He is one of the core pieces on this offense for the Lions.
Gibbs is primed for a huge season after the Lions traded running back David Montgomery to the Houston Texans in March. As the featured three-down back, it is quite possible that Gibbs can carry the ball more than 300 times in the 2026 NFL season.
Candace Pedraza of Side Lion Report listed five winners and three losers from the offseason as Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season approaches. Gibbs landed on the winners side alongside the rookie class, Aidan Hutchinson, Isaac TeSlaa and the team's undrafted free agents. Pedraza wrote:
"Gibbs has an excellent shot at winning OPOY or MVP, or both, this season. He's not only about to see a major uptick in carries this season with the trade of Montgomery going down this offseason, but the Lions' "light" schedule should make his ability to break some rushing records fairly simple. That's all ****** uming, of course, that the Lions' offensive line makes his life this easy.
But, coming off a historic extension and getting handed the keys to the ground game should be extra motivation for a competitor like Gibbs this season."
#season #running #montgomery #pedraza
Gibbs is primed for a huge season after the Lions traded running back David Montgomery to the Houston Texans in March. As the featured three-down back, it is quite possible that Gibbs can carry the ball more than 300 times in the 2026 NFL season.
Candace Pedraza of Side Lion Report listed five winners and three losers from the offseason as Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season approaches. Gibbs landed on the winners side alongside the rookie class, Aidan Hutchinson, Isaac TeSlaa and the team's undrafted free agents. Pedraza wrote:
"Gibbs has an excellent shot at winning OPOY or MVP, or both, this season. He's not only about to see a major uptick in carries this season with the trade of Montgomery going down this offseason, but the Lions' "light" schedule should make his ability to break some rushing records fairly simple. That's all ****** uming, of course, that the Lions' offensive line makes his life this easy.
But, coming off a historic extension and getting handed the keys to the ground game should be extra motivation for a competitor like Gibbs this season."
#season #running #montgomery #pedraza
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2 months ago
The Minnesota Vikings continue to be relatively healthy as Week 1 approaches. Jakobe Thomas, the team's third-round pick at safety, was the only player who didn't participate in Wednesday's practice due to an illness.
However, it appears Thomas has gotten past that. He was limited in Thursday's practice, as were fellow rookies Caleb Tiernan (ankle) and Jacob Thomas (ankle), the undrafted free-agent safety out of James Madison.
Green Bay's injury list was lengthier, with DL Warren Brinson and LB Ty'Ron Hopper listed as DNPs for the second straight day. Starters who were limited on Thursday included RT Zach Bako-Bewele (knee), LG Aaron Banks (knee), DL Devonte Wyatt (ankle), DL Javon Hargrave (knee), and EDGE Barryn Sorrell (foot).
Starting LT Jordan Morgan (knee) was upgraded to a full participant after being limited on Wednesday.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Thursday injury report for the Vikings Week 1 matchup
#thomas #thursday #safety #practice
However, it appears Thomas has gotten past that. He was limited in Thursday's practice, as were fellow rookies Caleb Tiernan (ankle) and Jacob Thomas (ankle), the undrafted free-agent safety out of James Madison.
Green Bay's injury list was lengthier, with DL Warren Brinson and LB Ty'Ron Hopper listed as DNPs for the second straight day. Starters who were limited on Thursday included RT Zach Bako-Bewele (knee), LG Aaron Banks (knee), DL Devonte Wyatt (ankle), DL Javon Hargrave (knee), and EDGE Barryn Sorrell (foot).
Starting LT Jordan Morgan (knee) was upgraded to a full participant after being limited on Wednesday.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Thursday injury report for the Vikings Week 1 matchup
#thomas #thursday #safety #practice
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2 months ago
When Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes went down with a torn ACL, there were panic-stricken takes that he might miss some or most of the 2026 season.
That didn't happen. At every step of Mahomes' recovery he has looked right on track, and it will culminate with him starting on Monday night. He made it back for Week 1, which was within the normal timetable for his injury.
Mahomes should be fine for the opener. But the Chiefs' issues around him persist.
The last thing the Chiefs want to do in Mahomes' first game back, against a very good Denver Broncos defense, is put him in harm's way. But with preferred left tackle Josh Simmons dealing with a back injury and Jaylon Moore, just signed to a two-year, $30 million deal this offseason, staying at right tackle, the Chiefs have had to scramble.
The result is that Mahomes will return and be protected by an undrafted rookie left tackle against a Broncos defense that led the NFL with 68 sacks last season. That's not ideal.
#back #Broncos
That didn't happen. At every step of Mahomes' recovery he has looked right on track, and it will culminate with him starting on Monday night. He made it back for Week 1, which was within the normal timetable for his injury.
Mahomes should be fine for the opener. But the Chiefs' issues around him persist.
The last thing the Chiefs want to do in Mahomes' first game back, against a very good Denver Broncos defense, is put him in harm's way. But with preferred left tackle Josh Simmons dealing with a back injury and Jaylon Moore, just signed to a two-year, $30 million deal this offseason, staying at right tackle, the Chiefs have had to scramble.
The result is that Mahomes will return and be protected by an undrafted rookie left tackle against a Broncos defense that led the NFL with 68 sacks last season. That's not ideal.
#back #Broncos
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2 months ago
After adding veteran safety Taylor Rapp to their practice squad on Monday, the Denver Broncos cut undrafted rookie long snapper Luke Basso to make room for Rapp, according to KUSA-TV's Mike Klis.
Basso (6-3, 246 pounds) signed with the Broncos as a UDFA out of Oregon this spring. He competed with Mitch Fraboni this summer and after both players failed to make the 53-man roster, Denver signed each to the practice squad. Fraboni is expected to eventually get fully promoted to the active roster, and Basso will likely be kept in mind in case the Broncos ever need a fill-in long snapper down the road.
Rapp becomes the second safety on the practice squad, joining seventh-round draft pick Miles Scott. It wouldn't be surprising to see Rapp eventually fully promoted to the active roster once he gets up to speed in Denver.
RB Cody Schrader
FB Adam Prentice
#Broncos #basso #practice #fraboni
Basso (6-3, 246 pounds) signed with the Broncos as a UDFA out of Oregon this spring. He competed with Mitch Fraboni this summer and after both players failed to make the 53-man roster, Denver signed each to the practice squad. Fraboni is expected to eventually get fully promoted to the active roster, and Basso will likely be kept in mind in case the Broncos ever need a fill-in long snapper down the road.
Rapp becomes the second safety on the practice squad, joining seventh-round draft pick Miles Scott. It wouldn't be surprising to see Rapp eventually fully promoted to the active roster once he gets up to speed in Denver.
RB Cody Schrader
FB Adam Prentice
#Broncos #basso #practice #fraboni
2 months ago
The Chargers have made a flurry of moves since trimming the roster from 90 to 53 players.
One of those moves included trading away undrafted cornerback Avery Smith.
Smith was sent to the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday. In exchange, the Chargers received a 2027 sixth-round pick. The 22-year-old spoke to reporters on Thursday about the trade and admitted he was surprised by the trade for one particular reason.
"I follow football, and I haven't really heard of an undrafted free agent getting traded before the regular season," Smith said.
"So that is what surprised me."
#sunday
One of those moves included trading away undrafted cornerback Avery Smith.
Smith was sent to the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday. In exchange, the Chargers received a 2027 sixth-round pick. The 22-year-old spoke to reporters on Thursday about the trade and admitted he was surprised by the trade for one particular reason.
"I follow football, and I haven't really heard of an undrafted free agent getting traded before the regular season," Smith said.
"So that is what surprised me."
#sunday
2 months ago
Jalon Daniels entered the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' offseason program as an undrafted rookie simply trying to earn a place in the organization. A few months later, he will open the regular season one play away from being Tampa Bay's starting quarterback, and that unlikely rise has certainly caught the attention of general manager Jason Licht.
Speaking with NFL Network's Sara Walsh, Licht summed up Daniels' path to becoming Baker Mayfield's backup with some significant praise. "There's no blueprint for an undrafted rookie becoming your number 2 quarterback," Licht told Walsh. "Jalon basically wrote his own." That statement carries even more weight given how rare Daniels' situation is. According to Elias Sports Bureau, the last undrafted rookie quarterback to be active for Week 1 was Trevone Boykin with the Seattle Seahawks in 2016. Daniels didn't simply survive roster cuts, either. He beat out veteran Jake Browning for the job and convinced Tampa Bay it could enter the season with only two quarterbacks on its initial 53-man roster.
Licht has made it clear that Daniels' draft status won't prevent him from winning the job. "The number-one thing is, he earned it," Licht said. "It wasn't just given to him."Daniels steadily climbed throughout the summer, but his preseason performance helped solidify his case. He completed 27 of 44 passes for 239 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions while adding 37 yards and another touchdown on the ground. More importantly, Tampa Bay saw poise and command from a quarterback who was supposed to be a developmental project. The Bucs apparently began viewing Daniels differently after their first preseason game against the Jets. Licht said conversations shifted from Daniels needing to prove he could be the backup to essentially needing to prove that he couldn't. He never gave them a reason to change course. There is still considerable risk involved. Daniels has never taken a regular-season NFL snap, and Tampa Bay is trying to contend for another NFC South ****** le. If Mayfield misses time, the Bucs would be handing their offense to an undrafted rookie. Yet Licht doesn't appear interested in keeping a veteran around simply for the comfort of experience. He said Tampa Bay would rather have a talented, prepared, inexperienced quarterback than choose experience just for the sake of it. The Bucs aren't treating him like an undrafted rookie they hope to develop eventually. They've trusted him with one of the most important backup jobs on the roster because they believe he earned it.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Jason Licht's praise shows just how much Jalon Daniels impressed
#daniels #bucs #jalon #simply
Speaking with NFL Network's Sara Walsh, Licht summed up Daniels' path to becoming Baker Mayfield's backup with some significant praise. "There's no blueprint for an undrafted rookie becoming your number 2 quarterback," Licht told Walsh. "Jalon basically wrote his own." That statement carries even more weight given how rare Daniels' situation is. According to Elias Sports Bureau, the last undrafted rookie quarterback to be active for Week 1 was Trevone Boykin with the Seattle Seahawks in 2016. Daniels didn't simply survive roster cuts, either. He beat out veteran Jake Browning for the job and convinced Tampa Bay it could enter the season with only two quarterbacks on its initial 53-man roster.
Licht has made it clear that Daniels' draft status won't prevent him from winning the job. "The number-one thing is, he earned it," Licht said. "It wasn't just given to him."Daniels steadily climbed throughout the summer, but his preseason performance helped solidify his case. He completed 27 of 44 passes for 239 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions while adding 37 yards and another touchdown on the ground. More importantly, Tampa Bay saw poise and command from a quarterback who was supposed to be a developmental project. The Bucs apparently began viewing Daniels differently after their first preseason game against the Jets. Licht said conversations shifted from Daniels needing to prove he could be the backup to essentially needing to prove that he couldn't. He never gave them a reason to change course. There is still considerable risk involved. Daniels has never taken a regular-season NFL snap, and Tampa Bay is trying to contend for another NFC South ****** le. If Mayfield misses time, the Bucs would be handing their offense to an undrafted rookie. Yet Licht doesn't appear interested in keeping a veteran around simply for the comfort of experience. He said Tampa Bay would rather have a talented, prepared, inexperienced quarterback than choose experience just for the sake of it. The Bucs aren't treating him like an undrafted rookie they hope to develop eventually. They've trusted him with one of the most important backup jobs on the roster because they believe he earned it.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Jason Licht's praise shows just how much Jalon Daniels impressed
#daniels #bucs #jalon #simply
2 months ago
The Chargers cut their roster from 90 to 53 with a little over a week until the start of the 2026 season.
Los Angeles has found the 53 men who they believe will contribute in a big way, and one of those 53 is former undrafted linebacker Marlowe Wax. Wax made a name for himself last season after not hearing his name during the 2025 NFL Draft. Still, he made the team.
Prior to the 2026 season, Wax was on the roster bubble, but after a strong preseason performance, there was little doubt he'd be left out. According to Pro Football Focus, Wax graded out as the highest-graded Charger from the 2026 preseason.
PFF graded him out at 90.9.
"Wax was an undrafted free agent out of Syracuse last year and was solid in the 2025 preseason. He was even better this year, though, improving his PFF preseason grades in both run-defense and coverage. He tallied six tackles resulting in a defensive stop and had a pass breakup over the past three weeks."
#season #last
Los Angeles has found the 53 men who they believe will contribute in a big way, and one of those 53 is former undrafted linebacker Marlowe Wax. Wax made a name for himself last season after not hearing his name during the 2025 NFL Draft. Still, he made the team.
Prior to the 2026 season, Wax was on the roster bubble, but after a strong preseason performance, there was little doubt he'd be left out. According to Pro Football Focus, Wax graded out as the highest-graded Charger from the 2026 preseason.
PFF graded him out at 90.9.
"Wax was an undrafted free agent out of Syracuse last year and was solid in the 2025 preseason. He was even better this year, though, improving his PFF preseason grades in both run-defense and coverage. He tallied six tackles resulting in a defensive stop and had a pass breakup over the past three weeks."
#season #last
2 months ago
The Jacksonville Jaguars announced their initial 53-man roster last weekend, which saw a major trend towards young players with lots of potential for the future. However, that does not mean veteran experience isn't valued in Jacksonville anymore.
In a recent press conference, head coach Liam Coen pointed to Jahlani Tavai and Ameer Abdullah as examples of veteran newcomers who made the roster, despite facing competition from younger players at their positions.
"It's typically challenging to make those teams in some of those instances, and so credit those guys," he said of Abdullah and Tavai. "They're the right type of ones, right? Mentally, pros do it the right way. Ameer Abdullah is one of the first guys in our building every single day. The way that he prepares his body, the way that he prepares for practice. Jahlani, the way that he goes about his business. He's a great teammate. Everybody loves him. He does all the little things the right way, will help us on special teams as well."
Abdullah faced a crowded running back room, with three players — Bhayshul Tuten, Chris Rodriguez, and LeQuint Allen — all but ***** ured to have roster spots when Abdullah signed with the Jaguars in May. Abdullah had to not only convince Jacksonville staff to roster four running backs, but to keep him over Deejay Dallas and undrafted rookie J'Mari Taylor. Judging by Coen's words, it was Abdullah's experience and dedication that ultimately made the difference.
Tavai, meanwhile, had an even more unlikely path to the active roster. He arrived in Jacksonville just weeks before cutdown day, and made the roster over younger players, like Jack Kiser, Jalen McLeod, Yasir Abdullah, and preseason standout Amari Burney.
#right #made
In a recent press conference, head coach Liam Coen pointed to Jahlani Tavai and Ameer Abdullah as examples of veteran newcomers who made the roster, despite facing competition from younger players at their positions.
"It's typically challenging to make those teams in some of those instances, and so credit those guys," he said of Abdullah and Tavai. "They're the right type of ones, right? Mentally, pros do it the right way. Ameer Abdullah is one of the first guys in our building every single day. The way that he prepares his body, the way that he prepares for practice. Jahlani, the way that he goes about his business. He's a great teammate. Everybody loves him. He does all the little things the right way, will help us on special teams as well."
Abdullah faced a crowded running back room, with three players — Bhayshul Tuten, Chris Rodriguez, and LeQuint Allen — all but ***** ured to have roster spots when Abdullah signed with the Jaguars in May. Abdullah had to not only convince Jacksonville staff to roster four running backs, but to keep him over Deejay Dallas and undrafted rookie J'Mari Taylor. Judging by Coen's words, it was Abdullah's experience and dedication that ultimately made the difference.
Tavai, meanwhile, had an even more unlikely path to the active roster. He arrived in Jacksonville just weeks before cutdown day, and made the roster over younger players, like Jack Kiser, Jalen McLeod, Yasir Abdullah, and preseason standout Amari Burney.
#right #made
2 months ago
The Tennessee ******* ans were awarded three players off waivers on Monday. Among the new additions was cornerback Melvin Smith. The ******* ans also signed safety Terrell Burgess and offensive tackle James Hudson, making five total additions after the initial 53-man roster was set.
Smith entered the league as an undrafted free agent with the Kansas City Chiefs last offseason. ******* ans GM Mike Borgonzi was already in Tennessee, meaning he isn't directly connected to Smith through his KC days. It's safe to ******* ume the tendencies he searches for in late-round cornerbacks is still in place with the Chiefs, however.
Smith played 47 total snaps for the Chiefs during this recent preseason period. The former Southern Arkansas standout allowed four receptions for 29 yards and a touchdown, per Pro Football Focus. He also had six tackles.
The ******* ans waived Erick Hallett II to make room for Smith on the 53-man roster. It was a bit surprising, because Hallett played pretty well throughout training camp and the preseason. He has since been re-signed to the practice squad, so at least Borgonzi managed to retain him.
Smith did not play a single regular-season snap for the Chiefs in 2025. He essentially spent his entire rookie campaign on the practice squad. The Chiefs brought in multiple new cornerbacks this offseason, including former ******* ans L'Jarius Sneed and Kristian Fulton. They also drafted multiple corners, including first-round pick Mansoor Delane. That made Smith expendable to them.
#chiefs #tennessee #hallett #signed
Smith entered the league as an undrafted free agent with the Kansas City Chiefs last offseason. ******* ans GM Mike Borgonzi was already in Tennessee, meaning he isn't directly connected to Smith through his KC days. It's safe to ******* ume the tendencies he searches for in late-round cornerbacks is still in place with the Chiefs, however.
Smith played 47 total snaps for the Chiefs during this recent preseason period. The former Southern Arkansas standout allowed four receptions for 29 yards and a touchdown, per Pro Football Focus. He also had six tackles.
The ******* ans waived Erick Hallett II to make room for Smith on the 53-man roster. It was a bit surprising, because Hallett played pretty well throughout training camp and the preseason. He has since been re-signed to the practice squad, so at least Borgonzi managed to retain him.
Smith did not play a single regular-season snap for the Chiefs in 2025. He essentially spent his entire rookie campaign on the practice squad. The Chiefs brought in multiple new cornerbacks this offseason, including former ******* ans L'Jarius Sneed and Kristian Fulton. They also drafted multiple corners, including first-round pick Mansoor Delane. That made Smith expendable to them.
#chiefs #tennessee #hallett #signed
2 months ago
A former Carolina Panthers defender has himself a new team.
As announced on Tuesday, the Arizona Cardinals have signed defensive end Jared Harrison-Hunte to their practice squad. The second-year lineman was waived as part of the Panthers' cutdown to their initial 53-man roster on Sunday.
Carolina signed Harrison-Hunte as an undrafted free agent in the spring of 2025, after his lone year at Southern Methodist University. The 6-foot-4, 294-pounder amassed 42 combined tackles (8.5 for a loss) and 6.5 sacks for the Mustangs en route to a first-team All-ACC selection.
Harrison-Hunte would spend much of the 2025 campaign on the Panthers' practice squad, and did not appear in a regular-season game.
The Cardinals got an up-close look at the 26-year-old back on Aug. 6, during the Hall of Fame Game. Harrison-Hunte recorded a sack of rookie quarterback Carson Beck in Carolina's 33-30 win.
#cardinals #game #team #practice
As announced on Tuesday, the Arizona Cardinals have signed defensive end Jared Harrison-Hunte to their practice squad. The second-year lineman was waived as part of the Panthers' cutdown to their initial 53-man roster on Sunday.
Carolina signed Harrison-Hunte as an undrafted free agent in the spring of 2025, after his lone year at Southern Methodist University. The 6-foot-4, 294-pounder amassed 42 combined tackles (8.5 for a loss) and 6.5 sacks for the Mustangs en route to a first-team All-ACC selection.
Harrison-Hunte would spend much of the 2025 campaign on the Panthers' practice squad, and did not appear in a regular-season game.
The Cardinals got an up-close look at the 26-year-old back on Aug. 6, during the Hall of Fame Game. Harrison-Hunte recorded a sack of rookie quarterback Carson Beck in Carolina's 33-30 win.
#cardinals #game #team #practice
2 months ago
The Tennessee ******* ans have been churning their roster over the past couple of days. First, the initial cuts down to 53, followed by a Monday swap of five players.
During the wave of initial cuts, wide receiver Bryce Oliver was an unexpected cut, with the ******* ans initially keeping wide receiver Xavier Restrepo as the team's sixth receiver. That move was somewhat of a surprise because Oliver has developed into one of the elite special teamers on the roster.
After not being added to the initial ******* ans' 17-man practice squad, many wondered when/if it would happen, and now we know why. Justin Melo of Sports Illustrated reports that Oliver has signed with the Cleveland Browns and will bring his special-teams abilities to their practice squad.
Former #Titans WR Bryce Oliver is signing with the Cleveland Browns' practice squad, per source.
Oliver was considered a lock by many to make Tennessee's 53-man roster. He was a surprise cut, and now he lands in Cleveland.
Elite special teams player.
While losing Oliver will potentially hurt the ******* ans' special teams depth, the decision to initially keep Restrepo over Oliver did make some sense: Restrepo produced as a slot receiver, while Oliver has never truly established himself as a potential weapon on offense. He flashed since joining the ******* ans as an undrafted rookie free agent in 2024, but could never put it together consistently.
#oliver #restrepo
During the wave of initial cuts, wide receiver Bryce Oliver was an unexpected cut, with the ******* ans initially keeping wide receiver Xavier Restrepo as the team's sixth receiver. That move was somewhat of a surprise because Oliver has developed into one of the elite special teamers on the roster.
After not being added to the initial ******* ans' 17-man practice squad, many wondered when/if it would happen, and now we know why. Justin Melo of Sports Illustrated reports that Oliver has signed with the Cleveland Browns and will bring his special-teams abilities to their practice squad.
Former #Titans WR Bryce Oliver is signing with the Cleveland Browns' practice squad, per source.
Oliver was considered a lock by many to make Tennessee's 53-man roster. He was a surprise cut, and now he lands in Cleveland.
Elite special teams player.
While losing Oliver will potentially hurt the ******* ans' special teams depth, the decision to initially keep Restrepo over Oliver did make some sense: Restrepo produced as a slot receiver, while Oliver has never truly established himself as a potential weapon on offense. He flashed since joining the ******* ans as an undrafted rookie free agent in 2024, but could never put it together consistently.
#oliver #restrepo
2 months ago
The Green Bay Packers had little reason to keep Kyle McCord with Jordan Love firmly established as the starter and veteran Tyrod Taylor ahead of him on the depth chart. With limited room in the quarterback room, Green Bay opted to move McCord to the Miami Dolphins rather than keep him buried behind the team's top two options.
The Packers have moved quickly to add another quarterback, bringing a new arm into the practice squad, according to The Athletic's Matt Schneidman.
"Packers are adding Kedon Slovis as QB3 on the practice squad, Gutekunst says. He just played for the Cardinals here on Friday." wrote the NFL insider.
Sep 11, 2022; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love (10) in the huddle against the Minnesota Vikings in the fourth quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
Slovis began his college career at USC before later stops at Pittsburgh and BYU, but he went undrafted in 2024. The Indianapolis Colts gave him a chance as an undrafted free agent, only to release him during their final roster cuts.
#mccord #keep
The Packers have moved quickly to add another quarterback, bringing a new arm into the practice squad, according to The Athletic's Matt Schneidman.
"Packers are adding Kedon Slovis as QB3 on the practice squad, Gutekunst says. He just played for the Cardinals here on Friday." wrote the NFL insider.
Sep 11, 2022; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love (10) in the huddle against the Minnesota Vikings in the fourth quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
Slovis began his college career at USC before later stops at Pittsburgh and BYU, but he went undrafted in 2024. The Indianapolis Colts gave him a chance as an undrafted free agent, only to release him during their final roster cuts.
#mccord #keep
2 months ago
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers entered the offseason determined to create more competition and depth along the edge. After watching Jack Pyburn throughout the preseason, they may eventually wonder whether they let one of their more intriguing young pass rushers get away too soon.
Tampa Bay waived Pyburn as part of its final roster cuts despite the undrafted rookie putting together one of the strongest preseasons on the team. Pyburn finished with four sacks, including two against the New York Jets and another two in the preseason finale against Jacksonville. His four sacks were tied for the most among edge defenders during the preseason. A numbers problem was always going to exist. The Buccaneers spent significant resources rebuilding the position, adding first-round pick Rueben Bain Jr. and veteran Al-Quadin Muhammad to a group that already included Yaya Diaby, David Walker and Anthony Nelson. With only so many roster spots available, Tampa Bay was eventually going to have to make a difficult decision. The gamble was likely that he would clear waivers and potentially remain available to the organization. Instead, the Kansas City Chiefs claimed him almost immediately, placing Pyburn on their 53-man roster and preventing Tampa Bay from bringing him back.
Preseason sacks don't automatically translate to the regular season, and Pyburn was often working against backups. Still, he did exactly what a young player is supposed to do with limited opportunities. Todd Bowles praised his work ethic and production after his two sack performance against New York, noting that Pyburn had taken advantage of the opportunities he received despite being buried behind a deep group of edge rushers, as Pyburn has a 21.4 percent pass rush productivity rate on true pass sets and a 23.8 percent win rate during the preseason.
The Buccaneers couldn't keep every promising edge defender, and their revamped group should be significantly deeper than it was a year ago. But if injuries strike or Pyburn develops into a contributor for Kansas City, this move will become much harder to defend. Tampa Bay spent the offseason searching for young players who could get after the quarterback. Pyburn showed legitimate signs of being one of them, and now the Buccaneers won't get the chance to find out what he could have become in their defense.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Did the Buccaneers make a mistake by waiving Jack Pyburn?
#buccaneers #preseason #sacks
Tampa Bay waived Pyburn as part of its final roster cuts despite the undrafted rookie putting together one of the strongest preseasons on the team. Pyburn finished with four sacks, including two against the New York Jets and another two in the preseason finale against Jacksonville. His four sacks were tied for the most among edge defenders during the preseason. A numbers problem was always going to exist. The Buccaneers spent significant resources rebuilding the position, adding first-round pick Rueben Bain Jr. and veteran Al-Quadin Muhammad to a group that already included Yaya Diaby, David Walker and Anthony Nelson. With only so many roster spots available, Tampa Bay was eventually going to have to make a difficult decision. The gamble was likely that he would clear waivers and potentially remain available to the organization. Instead, the Kansas City Chiefs claimed him almost immediately, placing Pyburn on their 53-man roster and preventing Tampa Bay from bringing him back.
Preseason sacks don't automatically translate to the regular season, and Pyburn was often working against backups. Still, he did exactly what a young player is supposed to do with limited opportunities. Todd Bowles praised his work ethic and production after his two sack performance against New York, noting that Pyburn had taken advantage of the opportunities he received despite being buried behind a deep group of edge rushers, as Pyburn has a 21.4 percent pass rush productivity rate on true pass sets and a 23.8 percent win rate during the preseason.
The Buccaneers couldn't keep every promising edge defender, and their revamped group should be significantly deeper than it was a year ago. But if injuries strike or Pyburn develops into a contributor for Kansas City, this move will become much harder to defend. Tampa Bay spent the offseason searching for young players who could get after the quarterback. Pyburn showed legitimate signs of being one of them, and now the Buccaneers won't get the chance to find out what he could have become in their defense.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Did the Buccaneers make a mistake by waiving Jack Pyburn?
#buccaneers #preseason #sacks
2 months ago
The Kansas City Chiefs aren't done making moves to their team with the announcement of four more signings to the practice squad roster on Tuesday.
The team officially announced running back Nate Carter, Offensive lineman Ethan Driskell, Cornerback Kader Kohou, and Fullback Ben VanSumeren on social media as the latest practice squad additions. Carter and VanSumeren were both in camp with other teams, while Driskell and Kohou were on the Chiefs' 90-man roster before being cut after the preseason.
We have signed the following players to the Practice Squad:
RB Nate Carter
T Ethan Driskell
CB Kader Kohou
FB Ben VanSumeren pic.twitter.com/PnOX12lMme
Kohou suffered a torn ACL in training camp last year with the Miami Dolphins and continues to work his way back into shape. The veteran has 38 career starts, 190 tackles, and 3 interceptions. Driskell signed with the Chiefs as an undrafted free agent after the 2024 NFL Draft and has appeared in 2 career games.
Each NFL team may sign 16 practice squad players, but teams with a player in the International Player Pathway Program may sign 17. More updates are likely ahead of the 2026 season as more free agents emerge across the league.
#carter
The team officially announced running back Nate Carter, Offensive lineman Ethan Driskell, Cornerback Kader Kohou, and Fullback Ben VanSumeren on social media as the latest practice squad additions. Carter and VanSumeren were both in camp with other teams, while Driskell and Kohou were on the Chiefs' 90-man roster before being cut after the preseason.
We have signed the following players to the Practice Squad:
RB Nate Carter
T Ethan Driskell
CB Kader Kohou
FB Ben VanSumeren pic.twitter.com/PnOX12lMme
Kohou suffered a torn ACL in training camp last year with the Miami Dolphins and continues to work his way back into shape. The veteran has 38 career starts, 190 tackles, and 3 interceptions. Driskell signed with the Chiefs as an undrafted free agent after the 2024 NFL Draft and has appeared in 2 career games.
Each NFL team may sign 16 practice squad players, but teams with a player in the International Player Pathway Program may sign 17. More updates are likely ahead of the 2026 season as more free agents emerge across the league.
#carter
2 months ago
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – Mike Vrabel had his eye on Corey Kiner ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft.
But the running back out of LSU ultimately went undrafted and ended up signing with the San Francisco 49ers' practice squad. His stint lasted until the middle of August that same year, when he was waived with an injury designation. The Minnesota Vikings signed him to the practice squad in September 2025, and then in December, he was signed to the Arizona Cardinals' active roster. That's where he remained until the end of this summer, when the New England Patriots traded for Kiner shortly before the roster cut deadline.
It was a call he didn't expect, but one he was happy to receive.
"I was a little shocked. I was happy, though," he told Patriots Wire in an one-on-one conversation on Tuesday. "Just very happy that I was getting the opportunity to come be on a 53-man roster."
Roster cutdown day is one of the hardest in the NFL, but some teams, especially those at the bottom of the waiver wire, will look to trade with another team to acquire a player they had their eye on, in an effort to ensure they get them. That's what the Patriots did with Kiner.
#wire #signed
But the running back out of LSU ultimately went undrafted and ended up signing with the San Francisco 49ers' practice squad. His stint lasted until the middle of August that same year, when he was waived with an injury designation. The Minnesota Vikings signed him to the practice squad in September 2025, and then in December, he was signed to the Arizona Cardinals' active roster. That's where he remained until the end of this summer, when the New England Patriots traded for Kiner shortly before the roster cut deadline.
It was a call he didn't expect, but one he was happy to receive.
"I was a little shocked. I was happy, though," he told Patriots Wire in an one-on-one conversation on Tuesday. "Just very happy that I was getting the opportunity to come be on a 53-man roster."
Roster cutdown day is one of the hardest in the NFL, but some teams, especially those at the bottom of the waiver wire, will look to trade with another team to acquire a player they had their eye on, in an effort to ensure they get them. That's what the Patriots did with Kiner.
#wire #signed
2 months ago
In another twist in Mark Gronowski's NFL journey, the Miami Dolphins released the former Iowa quarterback from their practice squad on Tuesday.
To get a better understanding of the entire situation involving Gronowski, here is a refresher on his numerous transactions:
May 11, 2026: Signs with Miami Dolphins as an undrafted free agent
Aug. 7, 2026: Waived by Miami Dolphins
Aug. 16, 2026: Re-Signs with Miami Dolphins on a one-year, $885,000 (non-guaranteed) contract
#signs #mark #iowa #twist
To get a better understanding of the entire situation involving Gronowski, here is a refresher on his numerous transactions:
May 11, 2026: Signs with Miami Dolphins as an undrafted free agent
Aug. 7, 2026: Waived by Miami Dolphins
Aug. 16, 2026: Re-Signs with Miami Dolphins on a one-year, $885,000 (non-guaranteed) contract
#signs #mark #iowa #twist
2 months ago
The Washington Commanders have been mostly quiet over the past few days, as they finalized their initial 53-man roster and practice squad. After finalizing their roster on Sunday, Washington re-signed 12 players it had just waived or released to the practice squad.
On Tuesday, the Commanders finished filling out their practice squad, signing five players from outside of the organization. Veteran cornerback Isaac Yaidom was the most notable signing, as he could contribute immediately.
While Yiadom and fellow cornerback Terell Smith could prove to be helpful soon, there was one player who could be a steal: offensive tackle Esa Pole.
Pole, a 6-foot-7, 319-pound tackle from Washington State, entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2025. After being initially waived during last summer's final cuts, the New York Jets claimed Pole off waivers. He was waived in October, and the Chiefs wasted no time bringing him back, signing him to the practice squad.
Pole was signed to the 53-man roster on Dec. 3, and he made his NFL debut at left tackle the following week. Kansas City's starting left tackle was injured on the first play, and Pole replaced him. He would then go on to start the final four games at left tackle.
#pole #practice #waived #Commanders
On Tuesday, the Commanders finished filling out their practice squad, signing five players from outside of the organization. Veteran cornerback Isaac Yaidom was the most notable signing, as he could contribute immediately.
While Yiadom and fellow cornerback Terell Smith could prove to be helpful soon, there was one player who could be a steal: offensive tackle Esa Pole.
Pole, a 6-foot-7, 319-pound tackle from Washington State, entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2025. After being initially waived during last summer's final cuts, the New York Jets claimed Pole off waivers. He was waived in October, and the Chiefs wasted no time bringing him back, signing him to the practice squad.
Pole was signed to the 53-man roster on Dec. 3, and he made his NFL debut at left tackle the following week. Kansas City's starting left tackle was injured on the first play, and Pole replaced him. He would then go on to start the final four games at left tackle.
#pole #practice #waived #Commanders
2 months ago
The Tennessee ***** ans were back on the field for practice Tuesday and finally began dedicated prep for Week 1 and their battle with the New York Jets.
The front office and staff also spent time working out a couple of offensive linemen, Chuma Edoga and Xavier Truss, but failed to add either.
Edoga was a former third-round pick of the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2019 NFL Draft, and has seen time at both guard and tackle over his career, playing in 62 games and making 25 starts.
Truss entered the league as an undrafted rookie free agent with the Denver Broncos following the 2025 NFL Draft, before being waived and landing with the New Orleans Saints. As a rookie, he appeared in seven games as a special teamer.
Tennessee also announced the release of veteran center Andre James from injured reserve with an injury settlement.
#time #games #Titans #week
The front office and staff also spent time working out a couple of offensive linemen, Chuma Edoga and Xavier Truss, but failed to add either.
Edoga was a former third-round pick of the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2019 NFL Draft, and has seen time at both guard and tackle over his career, playing in 62 games and making 25 starts.
Truss entered the league as an undrafted rookie free agent with the Denver Broncos following the 2025 NFL Draft, before being waived and landing with the New Orleans Saints. As a rookie, he appeared in seven games as a special teamer.
Tennessee also announced the release of veteran center Andre James from injured reserve with an injury settlement.
#time #games #Titans #week
