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1. Regrading the 2023 NFL Draft: Which teams had the best and worst rookie classes?15:36[-/+]
Almost a year removed from the 2023 NFL Draft, it's time to take a second look at how each team did with its draft picks.

2. Panthers sign DE Jadeveon Clowney to 2-year, $20 million deal: Source15:36[-/+]
Amos Morale III, Joseph Person and Randy Mueller The Carolina Panthers are signing defensive end Jadeveon Clowney, the team announced Wednesday. The deal is for two years, $20 million and worth up to $24 million, according to a league source. Clowney spent this past season with the Baltimore Ravens where he logged a career-high 9.5 sacks along with two forced fumbles and five passes defended. The 31-year-old has tallied 52.5 sacks and earned three Pro Bowl nods during his 11 NFL seasons. The Panthers were looking for help on the defensive line after trading Pro Bowl pass rusher Brian Burns to...

3. 49ers owner Jed York on Brock Purdy potentially being one of NFL’s highest-paid QBs: ‘That’s a good problem’15:36[-/+]
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy’s contract has been one of the best values in the NFL, and even though the team will have to invest heavily when the rising star is eligible for a new deal after the 2024 season, 49ers owner Jed York said he isn’t dreading the investment San Francisco will have to make in its starter, “because that’s the most important position that exists.” Purdy’s current deal ranks 60th among quarterbacks in total value, according to Spotrac.com. But Purdy, 24, finished with the No. 1 QBR in the NFL last season and was an MVP...

4. Julian Edelman, Matthew Slater among former Patriots unhappy with ‘The Dynasty’s’ portrayal of Bill Belichick15:36[-/+]
The docuseries “The Dynasty” was proclaimed at its release to be an in-depth look at the New England Patriots from 2000 to 2020 as the team won six Super Bowls, was chased by controversies and was spearheaded by a complicated relationship between Tom Brady and Bill Belichick. But it’s Belichick’s portrayal throughout the series that has drawn the most critique from those who spent time around him. Julian Edelman and Matthew Slater, cornerstone leaders on the Patriots’ three most recent Super Bowl teams, took umbrage with how their comments were used to paint an...

5. Reviewing the NFL rule changes, plus recapping Tuesday’s news15:36[-/+]
This is the digital version of Scoop City. If you want it earlier, start every morning with Scoop City delivered to your inbox. Sign up here. Jim Harbaugh has almost gone full Walter White since moving from Michigan to L.A., living in an RV at a trailer park. I need a Gardner Minshew-like photoshoot. Today’s NFL update: ?New kickoff rules examined ? One play everyone is copying ? NBA-style trades? ? Tre’Davious White a Ram The NFL’s annual owners meetings ended yesterday with new rules for tackling players, an XFL-like approach to kickoffs and a full...

6. NFL kickoffs are so back, plus Jordan Montgomery finally signs15:36[-/+]
The Pulse Newsletter ? | This is The Athletic’s daily sports newsletter. Sign up here to receive The Pulse directly in your inbox. Good morning! Aaron Rodgers will play football this year. Over the last two years, we have seen major American sports adopt huge rule changes. Before last season, baseball revolutionized itself to great effect. We even covered a big NFL rule tweak yesterday. Today brings another, and it could be bigger than baseball’s. Yes, NFL kickoffs are undergoing a serious makeover. But it might not look that different to us on TV — and this is a good thing.

7. ESPN pursuing Jason Kelce in latest ‘Monday Night Football’ pregame shake-up: Sources15:36[-/+]
ESPN is planning another “Monday Night Football” pregame shake-up, according to executives with knowledge of the network’s plans. A year after a complete makeover of the set under the stewardship of Scott Van Pelt, Robert Griffin III’s spot is in jeopardy, while the network is aggressively pursuing retired Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce for Monday nights. ESPN is not alone in going after Kelce as NBC, CBS and Amazon Prime Video all have interest. Meanwhile, Hall of Fame wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald’s part-time role on ESPN’s “Monday Night...

8. Aaron Rodgers and a VP bid that never was: ‘That would’ve been really interesting’15:36[-/+]
His candidacy may have been a publicity stunt, but in a few short years the quarterback has become one of sports' most polarizing figures

9. Safe or ‘stupid’? NFL stakeholders defend, condemn controversial hip-drop tackle ban15:36[-/+]
"If (the NFL) keeps tweaking and maneuvering and shifting the game, you’re gonna eventually come out with something that’s unrecognizable."

10. How one motion play swept through the NFL in 2023: ‘Everybody is copying it’15:36[-/+]
With the help of technology and a generation of coaches and players driven toward innovation, new ideas spread faster than ever.

11. Will Jets ever trade Zach Wilson? Examining possible outcomes, who might want him15:36[-/+]
There have been no takers for 2021's No. 2 pick, and a release is a possibility.

12. Sex offender, ex-Jaguars employee who hacked jumbotron sentenced to 220 years in prison15:36[-/+]
A U.S. District judge in Florida sentenced a convicted sex offender to 220 years in federal prison for producing, receiving and possessing child sex abuse material, and for hacking the jumbotron in the Jacksonville Jaguars’ stadium after the team did not renew his contract upon learning that he was a registered sex offender. U.S. District Judge Brian J. Davis sentenced Samuel Arthur Thompson, 53, for the offenses Tuesday, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida said in a release. A federal jury convicted Thompson in November 2023 of the offenses, as well as of...

13. Rams signing veteran CB Tre’Davious White to 1-year deal: Sources15:36[-/+]
The Los Angeles Rams are signing veteran cornerback Tre’Davious White to a one-year deal, league sources said Tuesday. NFL Network was first to report news of the deal. White’s signing with the Rams comes after the Buffalo Bills released him earlier this month to save $10.2 million in salary cap space. Last season, he tore his Achilles on a non-contact play against the Miami Dolphins in Week 4 and missed the rest of the season. White spent his entire seven-year career with Buffalo after the team drafted him with the No. 27 pick in 2017. He recorded 311 tackles, 68 passes defended...

14. Steelers, RB Cordarrelle Patterson reach deal after NFL adopts new kickoff rules: Reports15:36[-/+]
The Pittsburgh Steelers are expected to sign running back Cordarrelle Patterson on a two-year deal, according to multiple reports Tuesday. The timing is impeccable for the Steelers, as NFL owners also voted Tuesday to approve a new rule that incentivizes more kick returns, and Patterson is widely considered one of the best in the return game. GO DEEPERNFL owners vote to modify kickoff rules Patterson, a four-time All-Pro and four-time Pro Bowler, has an NFL-record nine career kick returns for touchdowns but hasn’t been used much as a returner over the past three years. He excelled in...

15. Making sense of NFL’s new kickoff rule and what it means for next season15:36[-/+]
The league hopes to bring back excitement while keeping injuries down, but teams have a lot to figure out with personnel and strategy.

16. College football will study new NFL kickoff rule during 2024 season15:36[-/+]
ATHENS, Ga. — The XFL kickoff system is coming to the NFL. And that means college football may not be far behind. Georgia head coach Kirby Smart, a member of the college football rules committee, said he and others in the game are looking to make the kickoff more relevant while also making it safer. So they will follow the new NFL rule, which was approved on Tuesday. “I think the NFL is the model. They know what they want. They know what they’re trying to do,” Smart said Tuesday. “And they’re going to get it right, and then hopefully we can look into it ourselves, if the kickoff is...

17. Sean McVay had ‘a sense’ all year that 2023 would be Aaron Donald’s last season15:36[-/+]
ORLANDO — “People have asked, ‘when did you know?’” said Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay on Tuesday morning, during the NFC coaches’ breakfast at the annual league meetings. McVay, of course, was referring to the decision of future Hall of Fame defensive tackle Aaron Donald — who announced his retirement earlier this month. “We have such a good relationship, I knew the whole year. Or, at least I had a sense. There was kind of an unspoken understanding — even when we convinced him to come back after we won the Super Bowl in ‘21, there was kind of always an understanding...

18. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. not selecting Jets QB Aaron Rodgers as running mate15:36[-/+]
United States presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is expected to name Nicole Shanahan — not New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers — as his running mate. The New York Times reported earlier this month that Rodgers was being considered for the position. Kennedy did not mention Rodgers by name during his event Tuesday, but in announcing Shanahan he did say, “I also wanted someone who was an athlete, who would inspire Americans to heal, and get them back in shape.” Shanahan is an avid surfer, he noted. Kennedy also added that he was “mostly looking for a partner...

19. NFL to host games on Christmas Day 2024 despite holiday falling on Wednesday15:36[-/+]
The NFL is set to play a doubleheader on Christmas Day, the league announced Tuesday. Christmas Day, 2024, falls on a Wednesday and will be the first NFL game played on a Wednesday since 2020, when COVID-19 forced the league to hold a matchup between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens midweek. The NFL has shown an increased commitment to playing games on Christmas Day. Since 2020, the NFL has played nine games on Christmas. Before then, the league held 21 total games on the holiday. But besides rescheduling the Ravens-Steelers matchup in 2020, the league has only played only one game...

20. NFL owners approve significant changes to kickoff rules, move trade deadline to Week 915:36[-/+]
ORLANDO, Fla. — After taking a night to sleep on the discussions had on Monday over the proposed modified kickoff, the NFL owners on Tuesday voted to approve the change that league officials and coaches believe will return the play to relevance. Twenty-nine of the 32 owners voted in favor of the modification, and it takes effect this coming season — a year after only 22 percent of kickoffs in the 2023 season were returned. The modification calls for all players on the kicking team to line up at the receiving team’s 40-yard line while the receiving team lines nine players up on its own...

21. The NFL’s controversial new rule change, plus Iowa and Caitlin Clark escape15:36[-/+]
The Pulse Newsletter ? | This is The Athletic’s daily sports newsletter. Sign up here to receive The Pulse directly in your inbox. Good morning! I predict you’ll get traded this season. For a few minutes late last night, it looked like two big women’s NCAA Tournament upsets were brewing. Instead, we saw two escapes: Caitlin Clark and No. 1 seed Iowa squeaked past No. 8 seed West Virginia 64-54, though the game was tied at 52 with under 3 minutes to play. The Mountaineers got the game they wanted, but simply could not keep up offensively. Clark scored 32, giving her a...

22. NFL Draft pro day roundup: Ladd McConkey, Kool-Aid McKinstry among standouts15:36[-/+]
NFL scouts, GMs and coaches recently flocked to pro days at schools like Georgia, Michigan and USC. Which 2024 draft prospects stood out?

23. Lions president says Cameron Sutton was in facility the day team learned about arrest warrant15:36[-/+]
Detroit Lions team president Rod Wood said Cameron Sutton was in the team facility and spoke with team officials on March 21, the day the organization learned about the warrant out for Sutton’s arrest on a charge of domestic battery. “We found him, he was down with our strength staff, he kind of showed up unexpectedly to work out,” Wood told the station. “We were able to talk to him in person, not me but others on the staff, and he left the building and we released him the next day and no one has spoken to him since.” Lions President Rod Wood said he was on a...

24. Browns close to extending coach Kevin Stefanski, GM Andrew Berry, owner says15:36[-/+]
The Cleveland Browns have finally achieved success and stability, and in the wake of an 11-win season, both general manager Andrew Berry and coach Kevin Stefanski are in line for long-term contract extensions this spring. Browns owner Jimmy Haslam said Monday that the team is “close” to finalizing extensions for Berry and Stefanski, who have been the organization’s frontmen since 2020. “We’re in the process of working through things so that Kevin and Andrew would be with us for an extended period of time,” Haslam said. The Browns have only been to the...

25. MetLife Stadium to put in grass field for 2026 World Cup, stick with turf for NFL season15:36[-/+]
ORLANDO — Giants president and CEO John Mara said a grass field will be put in for the 2026 World Cup at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. But it’s a different type of grass than would be used for American football, which is played at MetLife by the New York Giants and Jets. The venue was selected ahead of Dallas’ AT&T Stadium and L.A.’s SoFi Stadium to host world football’s prestigious finale. The final will take place July 19, 2026. Mara also said other changes will be in store for the stadium ahead of the World Cup. “We’re talking about some pretty significant...

26. Deion Sanders says Shedeur Sanders, Travis Hunter won’t go to certain teams in 2025 NFL Draft15:36[-/+]
Deion Sanders says NFL teams can expect his son, quarterback Shedeur Sanders, and Colorado two-way star Travis Hunter, to navigate their way out of being drafted into bad situations in next year’s draft. “I know where I want them to go,” Sanders said Friday on “Million Dollaz Worth of Game,” a Barstool Sports podcast. “So, it’s certain cities that ain’t going to happen. It’s going to be an Eli.” In 2004, quarterback Eli Manning said he would not play for the San Diego Chargers, who drafted him and promptly traded him to the New York...

27. 49ers have no plans to trade Brandon Aiyuk, ‘actively talking’ about extension, GM says15:36[-/+]
The San Francisco 49ers have not had trade discussions involving receiver Brandon Aiyuk, general manager John Lynch said Monday. Lynch added that the team is “actively talking” with Aiyuk about an extension. “There are a number of different directions it can go,” Lynch said. “But we appreciate the heck out of Brandon and who he is as a player. We want him to be a part of the Niners, so we’re going to work towards making that a reality.” Rumors have circulated this month that the 49ers were discussing potential deals with the Pittsburgh Steelers and...

28. NFL bans swivel hip-drop tackle at league owners’ meetings15:36[-/+]
ORLANDO — The NFL’s competition committee achieved one of two major objectives of the offseason Monday when NFL owners voted at the annual league meetings to ban the swivel hip-drop tackle — a technique that league officials have deemed a great threat to player safety. According to the agreed upon specific criteria of the now-illegal technique, a swivel hip-drop tackle takes place when a player: Grabs a runner with both hands/arms while attempting to make a tackle “Unweights himself by swiveling and dropping his hips and/or lower body” And then lands on and traps the runner’s...

29. Bears GM Ryan Poles on Caleb Williams feedback: ‘They don’t like him, they love him’15:36[-/+]
ORLANDO, Fla. — The Chicago Bears are doing their due diligence on USC quarterback Caleb Williams ahead of the NFL Draft, and general manager Ryan Poles said Monday morning at the owners’ meetings that “the feedback’s been good.” That may be an understatement. “When you talk to his teammates, they don’t like him, they love him,” Poles said. “His leadership, how he brings people together. He’s intentional with his leadership. Same goes with the staff. “I’m having a hard time finding a person that doesn’t like him or even...

30. NFL mock draft: Vikings trade up, leading to QB-heavy top-4 selections15:36[-/+]
Several trades shake up the first round, as offensive players dominate the early selections and O-linemen make up 10 of the top 32 picks.

31. Coaches confidential: How NFL middle management secretly shares salary information15:36[-/+]
NFL position coaches have come up with ways to find out how they stack up among their peers, even if owners would rather they didn't.

32. NFL projection model: Falcons, Bears winning the offseason; Cowboys, Chiefs slipping15:36[-/+]
No surprise, the Kirk Cousins addition vaulted Atlanta to the top of the list of winners. Weren't the Cowboys supposed to be all in?

33. Will NFL have new kickoff rules next season? Owners will vote on proposal Monday15:36[-/+]
The proposal aims to increase kickoff returns and reduce injury by eliminating the running start of the kickoff team, among other things.

34. L’Jarius Sneed trade grades: Titans win big; what were Chiefs thinking?15:36[-/+]
Trading Sneed seemed likely for a while. But giving him up for a future third-round pick doesn't add up.

35. Chiefs trading CB L’Jarius Sneed to Titans for 2025 3rd-round pick, 2024 7th-round swap: Source15:36[-/+]
By Dianna Russini, Mark Puleo, Larry Holder, Nate Taylor and Joe Rexrode The Kansas City Chiefs are trading cornerback L’Jarius Sneed to the Tennessee Titans in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick and a 2024 seventh-round pick swap, a league source confirmed. The trade is pending a physical for Sneed. ESPN was the first to report the news. Multiple other teams were interested in acquiring the ascending cornerback, who has played a key role in multiple Chiefs’ Super Bowl runs. A deal with Tennessee nearly materialized last week but fell through at the last hour. The Chiefs had placed the...

36. Four BIG potential rule changes in 2024, plus three questions15:36[-/+]
This is the digital version of Scoop City. If you want it earlier, start every morning with Scoop City delivered to your inbox. Sign up here. It’s a good morning. Especially if you had Oakland beating Kentucky or have RB Gus Edwards on your dynasty team. Yesterday, Chargers GM Joe Hortiz called Edwards “the bell cow” runner in LA. Today’s NFL newsletter included: ? Rule changes? ? Three meeting questions ?Raiders QB in 2024… Want to receive an email you enjoy opening? Sign up here. Sunday marks the start of the NFL’s annual league meetings,...

37. Michael Penix Jr.’s draft ceiling: What film shows about Washington QB’s NFL potential15:36[-/+]
The Huskies QB has rare arm talent but also some concerning flaws that don't typically improve at the NFL level.

38. As NFL quarterback carousel spins, which recent moves were upgrades and downgrades?15:36[-/+]
Twenty-one QBs, including Kirk Cousins, Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, have changed teams via trades or free agency since last month.

39. NFL execs aiming to outlaw hip-drop tackle, revise kickoff rules15:36[-/+]
The NFL’s competition committee and NFL teams have finalized their proposed rule changes for the 2024 season. The proposals will be voted on by the NFL’s owners during the annual league meeting from March 24 to 27 in Orlando. All together, 10 rule change proposals will be voted on, and each will need at least 24 “yes” votes to pass. Of the potential rule changes brought forth, the most controversial would outlaw the use of the “hip-drop tackle”. The rule would make it so that a 15-yard penalty is enforced if a player grabs a runner with both hands/arms while attempting to make a...

40. Lions release CB Cameron Sutton after arrest warrant issued over alleged domestic battery15:36[-/+]
The Detroit Lions have released cornerback Cameron Sutton, the team announced Thursday. His release came after the Hillsborough County (Fla.) Sheriff’s Office issued an arrest warrant for Sutton this week. Sutton, 29, is wanted on a charge of domestic battery by strangulation concerning an incident that allegedly occurred on March 7, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said. Sheriff’s deputies responded to a call at 4:52 a.m. ET at a residence in Lutz, Fla., near Tampa, and found a woman who had allegedly been battered. Sutton was no longer at the scene. The sheriff’s office said...

41. Class action lawsuit against NFL’s disability plan moving forward after court denies league’s motion to dismiss15:36[-/+]
A class-action lawsuit filed by 10 former NFL players last February against the NFL’s disability plan is moving forward after the United States District Court for the District of Maryland granted in part and denied in part the NFL’s motion to dismiss the litigation Thursday. According to court documents obtained by The Athletic, the court granted the NFL’s motion to dismiss all claims against the individual defendants, including NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, and also granted the NFL’s motion to dismiss the individual breach of fiduciary of duty claims, but the court...

42. Chargers offered Keenan Allen contract extension before Bears trade, GM says15:36[-/+]
Six-time Pro Bowl wideout Keenan Allen received multiple contract options to remain with the Los Angeles Chargers, including an extension, before being traded, Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz said in a Thursday news conference. The Chargers traded Allen to the Chicago Bears for a 2024 fourth-round pick earlier this month. “With Keenan, we approached multiple different options with him and just none of them worked out, and we had an offer for him the day we traded him,” Hortiz said. The Chargers approached Allen about taking a pay cut on his $23.1 million combined base salary...

43. Cardinals open to trade options for No. 4 pick in 2024 NFL Draft15:36[-/+]
The top three picks in the 2024 NFL Draft seem to be trending to quarterbacks for teams like the Chicago Bears, Washington Commanders and New England Patriots. The trend should stop with the Arizona Cardinals at No. 4, though, and the team sounds open to hear offers for the pick. Cardinals general manager Monti Ossenfort probably didn’t need to advertise this publicly, but he made it no secret that he’ll be accepting phone calls if other teams want to trade up to No. 4 in April’s draft. “There will be a big neon sign that says ‘open’ and I don’t like...

44. Post-free agency mock draft, plus is the NFL shifting to power schemes?15:36[-/+]
This is the digital version of Scoop City. If you want it earlier, start every morning with Scoop City delivered to your inbox. Sign up here. Quickly, without looking: Which four NFL team logos are pairs of letters? Answer is at the end of this newsletter, not that you need it. Today: ? Mock draft picks No. 1 to 12 ? Sean McVay’s influence ? Vikings trade up for QB? ? Run-game schemes changing With the biggest free agents in new homes and trades shaking up the landscape at positions like quarterback and receiver, today’s mock drafts look much different than...

45. NFL beat writer mock draft 2.0: Vikings, Broncos trade up into top 10 to grab QBs15:36[-/+]
Following the expected early run on quarterbacks and receivers, the Raiders trade up late in the first to nab their QB of the future.

46. A ‘high butt factor’ might be an NFL Draft prospect’s most prized asset15:36[-/+]
For years, the humble human haunches have been key indicators as football scouts evaluate players.

47. Former Cardinals executive Terry McDonough accused of choking neighbor15:36[-/+]
Former Arizona Cardinals executive Terry McDonough has been accused of choking his neighbor, according to Mecklenburg County (N.C.) court documents. Per a criminal affidavit, a neighbor alleged that on March 12 McDonough assaulted him by chest bumping him and putting his hands around the neighbor’s neck trying to strangle him because McDonough was upset over tractor equipment damaging his grass. McDonough allegedly verbally assaulted the neighbor and two landscape workers, according to the affidavit that the neighbor filed. “This person has a history of volatile behavior and also...

48. Caleb Williams’ USC pro day shows no sign of drama for Chicago Bears, No. 1 NFL Draft pick15:36[-/+]
Williams has always had a flair for the dramatic, but all signs are pointing to the USC QB heading to the Chicago Bears with the top pick.

49. Bears get close look at QB prospect Caleb Williams during USC pro day15:36[-/+]
USC held its pro day on Wednesday and gave NFL coaches, scouts and front office personnel an up-close-and-personal look at one of the 2024 NFL Draft’s top prospects, quarterback Caleb Williams. Williams demonstrated some of the skills that helped him win the Heisman Trophy in 2022 and had time to meet with the franchise that holds the No. 1 pick in the 2024 draft, the Chicago Bears. “It was great,” he said. “I didn’t really need to learn much. Just building a relationship. They’re trying to see if I’m the right fit to be the first pick as QB and...

50. Why Marvin Harrison Jr. missing Ohio State’s pro day won’t affect his NFL Draft stock15:36[-/+]
By Cameron Teague Robinson, Nick Baumgardner and Randy Mueller Ohio State star wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., a consensus top-five pick in next month’s NFL Draft, did not participate in the Buckeyes’ pro day on Wednesday. This is the second time in the pre-draft season that Harrison has decided not to work out. He didn’t do anything at the NFL combine in Indianapolis, which was expected. The decision from Harrison to not run routes at pro day is interesting but not completely surprising. It’s expected to be a quiet day in Columbus, with most of Ohio State’s top draft...

51. Arrest warrant issued for Lions CB Cameron Sutton over alleged domestic battery incident15:36[-/+]
The Hillsborough County (Fla.) Sheriff’s Office has issued an arrest warrant for Detroit Lions cornerback Cameron Sutton, according to the department’s records. Sutton is wanted on a charge of domestic battery by strangulation concerning an incident that allegedly occurred on March 7, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said. Sheriff’s deputies responded to a call at 4:52 a.m. ET at a residence in Lutz, Fla., near Tampa, and found a woman who had allegedly been battered. Sutton was no longer at the scene. The sheriff’s office said it has made numerous...

52. Free agency’s five winners, plus Jerry Jeudy’s $58 million deal15:36[-/+]
This is the digital version of Scoop City. If you want it earlier, start every morning with Scoop City delivered to your inbox. Sign up here. Following the success of “Quarterback,” Netflix will release “Receiver” this summer, featuring Davante Adams, Justin Jefferson, George Kittle, Deebo Samuel and Amon-Ra St. Brown. Only a few more positions until Bill Belichick’s “Long Snapper.” Today: ? Mike Williams is a J-E-T ? Free agency’s biggest winners ? Sean Payton the problem? ? Saquon Barkley’s legacy Over to Dianna for...

53. ESPN is open for business: How the coming months will shape the sports TV giant’s future15:36[-/+]
Pursuing partnerships with leagues and preparing a direct-to-consumer product, ESPN is heading into a landscape-altering stretch.

54. Ten potential difference-making NFL free agents still available and possible team fits15:36[-/+]
The biggest names on the market have found new homes for the 2024, but plenty of players are still available eager to show their worth.

55. Lions DE Romeo Okwara stepping away from NFL after 8 seasons15:36[-/+]
Lions defensive end Romeo Okwara announced Tuesday that he’s stepping away from football after eight NFL seasons — including six with Detroit. “After some introspection and meditation I have decided to step away from the NFL,” Okwara wrote on Instagram. “The game of football has been the largest part of my life for the greater (part) of 18 years, eight of which I have been fortunate enough to play at the professional level. Four of those with my brother. “The experiences, friendships, and camaraderie I have been lucky enough to share with my teammates, coaches,...

56. Jets and WR Mike Williams agree to 1-year deal worth up to $15 million: Source15:36[-/+]
The New York Jets wanted Mike Williams two years ago and never got a real shot at him. They got a shot at him Tuesday — and didn’t let the free agent leave the building. The Jets hosted the former Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver and before he could leave for scheduled visits with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Carolina Panthers, Williams agreed to a one-year contract with New York worth up to $15 million, a league source confirmed to The Athletic. If it seemed like the Jets weren’t going to make a major splash this offseason at first, that has changed in the last few days as...

57. Rams backup QB Jimmy Garoppolo speaks on suspension, new role in L.A.15:36[-/+]
New Los Angeles Rams backup quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo arrived at the team’s facilities Tuesday to officially sign his one-year deal, agreed upon Friday. A team source said Garoppolo passed his physical. The former San Francisco 49ers and Las Vegas Raiders starter will also serve a two-game suspension to start the 2024 season, but he can participate in offseason and preseason activities with the team. “Just messed up the T.U.E, really,” said Garoppolo, referring to the NFL’s “Therapeutic Use Exemption” policy. Players may get this exemption for certain banned substances.

58. Browns, Jerry Jeudy agree to 3-year, $58 million extension: Source15:36[-/+]
The Cleveland Browns and wide receiver Jerry Jeudy have agreed to a three-year, $58 million extension that includes $41 million guaranteed, a league source said. Jeudy recently joined the AFC North squad after the Denver Broncos traded him to Cleveland in exchange for fifth- and sixth-round picks in the 2024 NFL Draft. The Browns gave up pick Nos. 135 and 202. Jeudy, a 2020 first-round pick, had 54 catches for 758 yards and two touchdowns last season. He scored six of his 11 career receiving touchdowns in 2022, when he posted career highs of 67 catches for 972 yards. The 24-year-old projects...

59. Netflix to release ‘Receiver’ series featuring NFL stars Davante Adams, Justin Jefferson, more15:36[-/+]
By Alex Andrejev, Tashan Reed, Vic Tafur, Colton Pouncy, Alec Lewis and David Lombardi Netflix’s popular “Quarterback” show is getting a sequel, with its next iteration — titled “Receiver” — featuring five star NFL pass catchers: Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Davante Adams, Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson, Detroit Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle and wide receiver Deebo Samuel. The series chronicles the players on and off the field through the 2023-24 season and will premiere this summer,...

60. Free agency’s five losers, plus the best players still available15:36[-/+]
This is the digital version of Scoop City. If you want it earlier, start every morning with Scoop City delivered to your inbox. Sign up here. Good morning. Administrative mistakes cost the 49ers a fifth-round pick in 2025, but it could have been worse. Just ask the Jaguars, who had $22 million stolen. Today’s newsletter includes: ? Free agency’s biggest losers ? Best players still available ? Chase Young signs in New Orleans ? Aaron Donald highlights After the first flood of free agent signings and trades, let’s evaluate what’s happened. For...

61. Kirk Cousins Index: Top 10 NFL QBs whose contracts have outweighed their play15:36[-/+]
Cousins hasn't played like a Hall of Famer, but he's certainly been paid like one. How does he compare to other QBs over the last 10 years?

62. 2024 NFL Draft consensus Big Board: Marvin Harrison Jr. climbs to No. 115:36[-/+]
The Athletic’s consensus Big Board combines rankings from a wide range of draft experts to identify how the top prospects are viewed.

63. NFL Power Rankings post-free agency: The Texans are going for it, the Cowboys are … not15:36[-/+]
With the big deals of free agency complete, which teams are on the rise and which are moving down the pecking order?

64. Why taking Brock Bowers with a top-10 NFL Draft pick is a tough sell financially15:36[-/+]
Dane Brugler: "It would take a ballsy GM to make the move. You'd have to really trust your play caller to make you look smart."

65. Josh Dobbs signing with 49ers, per agent: What the QB brings to San Francisco15:36[-/+]
By David Lombardi, Matt Barrows, Alec Lewis, Greg Rosenstein and Dianna Russini Quarterback Joshua Dobbs is signing with the San Francisco 49ers, his agent announced on social media Monday. It is a one-year, $2.25 million fully guaranteed deal that includes $750,000 in play-time incentives, a league source confirmed. Dobbs, 29, started eight games for the Arizona Cardinals last season before being traded to the Minnesota Vikings in October. In Minnesota, he started four games and threw for 895 yards, five touchdowns and five interceptions. This included a big first game with the Vikings in...

66. Chase Young signing with Saints on 1-year deal: Why New Orleans made this move15:36[-/+]
By Dianna Russini, Matt Barrows, David Lombardi, Ben Standig, Randy Mueller and Greg Rosenstein Defensive end Chase Young is signing with the New Orleans Saints, the team announced Monday. It is a one-year deal worth $13 million guaranteed, according to league sources. Chase Young is a New Orleans Saint! #Saints | @youngchase907 pic.twitter.com/fV5AG4p9WI — New Orleans Saints (@Saints) March 18, 2024 Young, the No. 2 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, spent his first 4 1/2 seasons with the Washington Commanders. He was dealt to the San Francisco 49ers on Oct. 31 for a 2024 third-round...

67. 49ers penalized draft position, will forfeit 2025 fifth-round pick after NFL discovers accounting error15:36[-/+]
The San Francisco 49ers are being penalized draft position in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft and will forfeit a fifth-round pick in 2025 after the league discovered administrative payroll accounting errors that resulted in a misreporting of their cumulative player compensation, the league announced Monday. The accounting errors in question were from the close of the 2022 league year. “We take responsibility and accept the imposed discipline from the NFL due to a clerical payroll error,” the 49ers said in a statement. “At no time did we mislead or otherwise deceive the...

68. Bills, Taron Johnson agree to 3-year contract extension15:36[-/+]
The Buffalo Bills and defensive back Taron Johnson have agreed to a three-year extension, the team announced Monday. The extension is reportedly worth $31 million, which would make Johnson the NFL’s highest paid nickel back. Here to stay!! ?@Taronj11 has signed a three-year contract extension through 2027: https://t.co/nDogZLXc4N pic.twitter.com/vJ3ExkKoqu — Buffalo Bills (@BuffaloBills) March 18, 2024 Johnson earned second-team All-Pro honors last season after tallying 98 tackles, eight passes defended, three forced fumbles and a sack. The Bills...

69. Cardinals announce renovation plans for State Farm Stadium15:36[-/+]
The Arizona Cardinals are planning renovations for State Farm Stadium that will include new luxury seating options for fans, the team announced Monday. The options include field boxes and casitas behind the end zone near the home locker room. The Cardinals released photos and a video with renderings of the renovations. Gameday experience just went ? Learn more: — Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) March 18, 2024 State Farm Stadium, which ranked 17th in The Athletic’s NFL Stadium rankings last season, opened in 2006. The venue features a retractable roof as well as a retractable...

70. Reviewing the 2024 QB moves, plus Aaron Donald’s Hall of Fame career15:36[-/+]
This is the digital version of Scoop City. If you want it earlier, start every morning with Scoop City delivered to your inbox. Sign up here. Last week was a crazy month, right? It’s been less than seven days since free agency kicked off, yet some Cowboys fans have already given up. Inside today’s newsletter: ? Quarterbacks: 13 changes ? L’Jarius Sneed landing spots ? Aaron Donald tribute ? Justin Fields: A GM’s take Want this in your inbox each morning? Sign up here. When Vegas gave the Steelers the best odds to land both Russell Wilson and ...

71. The Steelers double-dipped with two similar yet very different quarterbacks. Will it work?15:36[-/+]
Justin Fields gives the Steelers a higher ceiling. Russell Wilson represents a baseline of play for a team that is going to run the ball.

72. What happened to the 2021 NFL Draft QBs? Why Justin Fields and others are with new teams15:36[-/+]
Organizations drafting QBs this year should take note of the mistakes made with Fields, Mac Jones, Trey Lance and Zach Wilson.

73. Feeding the ‘demon inside’: Ex-employee tells how and why he stole $22 million from Jaguars15:36[-/+]
Amit Patel was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison for his crimes.

74. Justin Fields trade grades: Steelers seize opportunity; did Bears bungle deal?15:36[-/+]
That's all Chicago could get for Fields?

75. Bears trade QB Justin Fields to Steelers for 2025 6th-rounder: How he fits in Pittsburgh15:36[-/+]
By Kevin Fishbain, Adam Jahns, Mike DeFabo and Mark Kaboly The Chicago Bears have traded quarterback Justin Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers for a 2025 conditional sixth-round draft pick, the teams announced Saturday. The pick could become a fourth-round pick based on playing time. The news is the latest surrounding the Steelers’ revamped quarterback room after the team signed former Broncos and Seahawks QB Russell Wilson to a one-year deal earlier this week. On Friday, Pittsburgh traded quarterback Kenny Pickett to the Philadelphia Eagles as part of a pick swap. We have acquired QB Justin...

76. Howe: What I’m hearing on QB ‘battles’: Daniel Jones vs. Drew Lock, Geno Smith vs. Sam Howell15:36[-/+]
Is there a QB competition brewing in New York? Does Howell have a chance to be the Seahawks' long-term answer at QB?

77. Jets to sign Tyron Smith, a left tackle with big impact — if he stays healthy15:36[-/+]
The New York Jets needed a new left tackle, so general manager Joe Douglas went out and got the best available one — and a likely future Hall of Famer at that. The Jets are signing Dallas Cowboys offensive tackle Tyron Smith, a team source said Friday. Smith is widely considered the best offensive lineman available in free agency, though he does come with some risk: He hasn’t played a full season since 2015 and he’s missed 37 combined over the last four years. Still, for a Jets team desperate to upgrade its offensive line after a miserable few years — and a string of bad luck...

78. Rams signing Jimmy Garoppolo to 1-year deal: Sources15:36[-/+]
By Dianna Russini, Jourdan Rodrigue and Tashan Reed The Los Angeles Rams are signing quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo to a one-year deal, league sources said Friday. ESPN was first to report the news. Garoppolo heads to Los Angeles three days after the Las Vegas Raiders released him. The NFL suspended him in February for the first two games of the 2024 season following his violation of the league’s performance-enhancing substances policy. Garoppolo has not appealed the decision. The Rams openly admitted this spring to searching for a new backup quarterback after failed attempts with several...

79. Kenny Pickett trade grades: Eagles land backup QB; Steelers anoint Russell Wilson QB1?15:36[-/+]
Are the Steelers done making moves at QB? Should the Eagles really expect things to work out with Pickett?

80. Why Chargers traded Keenan Allen — and what comes next for Jim Harbaugh, Joe Hortiz15:36[-/+]
Trading Allen was the most baffling of the Chargers' cap-saving moves. It's a bold one, but isn't that the point of a new regime?

81. Russell Wilson, now Steelers’ unquestioned starter: ‘This is the place I wanted to be’15:36[-/+]
PITTSBURGH — On Friday afternoon, shortly after Russell Wilson put pen to paper to make his one-year, $1.21 million deal with the Steelers official, the 35-year-old quarterback took a minute to reflect on his first trip to Pittsburgh. It was back in Week 2 of the 2019 season that the Steelers hosted Wilson. At the time, Wilson was still with the Seattle Seahawks, Ben Roethlisberger ran the show for Pittsburgh and the stadium was still called Heinz Field. “I remember the towels,” Wilson said. “I remember ‘Renegade.’ I remember the whole thing. I remember the game coming down to the...

82. Steelers trade Kenny Pickett to Eagles, signaling they’re all-in on Russell Wilson: Source15:36[-/+]
By Jeff Howe, Brooks Kubena and Mark Kaboly The Pittsburgh Steelers are trading quarterback Kenny Pickett to the Philadelphia Eagles as part of a pick swap, a league source confirmed to The Athletic. The move comes shortly after the Steelers signed former Broncos and Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson to a one-year deal. Pickett was set to enter his third season with Pittsburgh after the franchise selected him with a first-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. He’s started 24 games in his first two seasons and the Steelers went 7-5 with him under center in both of those years. He’s...

83. Eagles, Josh Sweat agree to terms on restructured deal, per source: How this impacts team’s roster15:36[-/+]
The Philadelphia Eagles and defensive end Josh Sweat have agreed to terms on a restructured contract including $10 million guaranteed with a max value of $13 million, a league source confirmed Friday. His prior deal didn’t include any guaranteed money. Sweat, 26, started 17 games for the Eagles last season, tallying 6.5 sacks, 43 combined tackles and 23 quarterback hits. He was a Pro Bowl selection during 2021-22. Philadelphia selected Sweat in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft out of Florida State. General manager Howie Roseman’s strategy to organize the defensive line’s...

84. Browns hire former Titans coach Mike Vrabel as consultant: Source15:36[-/+]
The Cleveland Browns are hiring former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel as a coaching and personnel consultant, a source confirmed to The Athletic. The Titans fired Vrabel in January after six seasons in Nashville. Vrabel, 48, finished the 2023 season with a 6-11 record, his worst mark during his Titans tenure. It’s the second straight year Tennessee finished with a losing record and missed the postseason. The former Super Bowl-winning New England Patriots linebacker found plenty of success during his first four seasons as the Titans’ coach. He went 41-24 in the regular...

85. After the Keenan Allen trade, will Jim Harbaugh draft a WR? What’s the Bears’ next move?15:36[-/+]
The Bears and Chargers have been circled as teams likely to draft a wide receiver in the top 10. Does their trade change that?

86. Rams’ future Hall of Fame DT Aaron Donald retires after 10 seasons15:36[-/+]
Los Angeles Rams star defensive tackle Aaron Donald, who made the game-sealing plays in Super Bowl LVI, is retiring from the NFL at 32. Donald announced his decision on social media. “For 10 years, I have been fortunate to play the game at the highest level,” he wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. “I’m thankful for the people I have met along the way, the relationships I have built and the things I have accomplished with my teammates and individually.” Cheers to what’s next. Extending a big thank you to the Rams and all of the fans for your support over these last 10 years.

87. Keenan Allen trade grades: Bears scoop up a star; Chargers feel sting of cap crunch15:36[-/+]
This deal is so good for the Bears it might actually make up for the Chase Claypool move in 2022.

88. Vikings make big play toward QB of the future with trade for Texans’ first-round draft pick: Sources15:36[-/+]
By Dianna Russini, Alec Lewis and Dane Brugler The Minnesota Vikings are acquiring a second first-round pick for April’s NFL Draft, landing No. 23 from the Houston Texans in a trade Friday, league sources said. The Vikings will send the Texans a 2024 second-rounder (No. 42), a sixth-rounder (No. 188) and a 2025 second-round pick. Houston is sending pack No. 23 and a seventh (No. 232). TRADE! The Minnesota Vikings are moving up in the draft. They will trade with the Houstons Texans. Minnesota will get the 23rd and 232nd pick….Houston will get the 42nd, 188th and 2nd in 2025 —...

89. Keenan Allen is a Bear, plus Caleb Williams AND Justin Fields?15:36[-/+]
This is the digital version of Scoop City. If you want it earlier, start every morning with Scoop City delivered to your inbox. Sign up here. Yesterday, we saw the offseason’s biggest signing when Lions head coach Dan Campbell was extended through 2027. He should have a statue outside Ford Field by then. Today’s newsletter recaps the major stories in the NFL: ? Bears blockbuster trade ? Williams and Fields? ? Replace the onside kick ? Marquise Brown signs in K.C. Caleb Williams vs. Justin Fields (and multiple picks) has been endlessly debated over the past...

90. NFL free-agency superlatives: The best and the most puzzling moves so far15:36[-/+]
The Giants and Vikings impressed despite losing key players. Meanwhile, the Bucs kept their own while the Ravens' roster was raided.

91. How will the first wave of free agency impact the 2024 NFL Draft?15:36[-/+]
As we wind down the first week of free agency, which deals (or trades) will have the biggest impact on the 2024 draft?

92. Reviewing combine stars: What physical freaks’ game film tells about NFL potential15:36[-/+]
Xavier Worthy, Braden Fiske and Quinyon Mitchell were among those with eye-popping abilities, now it has to translate to games.

93. Chiefs add speedy receiver Marquise Brown to boost passing game15:36[-/+]
By Nate Taylor, Dianna Russini, Randy Mueller and Doug Haller Kansas City Chiefs fans and NFL observers had been waiting all week for the team to make a move to improve its offense. It came Thursday night when the Chiefs agreed to terms with free-agent receiver Marquise Brown on a one-year deal worth up to a maximum of $11 million, a league source told The Athletic. By acquiring Brown, the Chiefs addressed one of their biggest roster needs. Brown’s initial salary, according to a league source, is expected to be $7 million. He can earn another $4 million through incentives. The 5-foot-9,...

94. Chargers trade WR Keenan Allen to Bears for fourth-round pick15:36[-/+]
By Daniel Popper, Adam Jahns, Kevin Fishbain, Randy Mueller and Dianna Russini The Los Angeles Chargers traded receiver Keenan Allen to the Chicago Bears for a fourth-round pick (No. 110), the teams announced Thursday. The Chargers approached Allen about taking a pay cut on his $23.1 million combined base salary and roster bonus, according to a league source, and Allen refused. Edge rushers Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack agreed to restructured contracts, according to league sources. Per NFL Network, Bosa agreed to a $7 million pay cut, and Mack agreed to a $4.25 million pay cut. They are both...

95. Linebacker Devin White gets fresh start after signing with Eagles on 1-year deal15:36[-/+]
The Philadelphia Eagles are signing former Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Devin White to a one-year deal worth up to $7.5 million, a league source confirmed to The Athletic. The late-night addition on Thursday supplies a significant need for a defense that surrendered the seventh-most yards last season and is undergoing a schematic repair under newly hired defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. White’s deal with Philadephia comes after he requested a trade from the Bucs last April and ended up playing the 2023 season under the fifth-year option. He struggled with foot and groin injuries and...

96. Sam Howell trade grades: Commanders turn a profit; Seahawks create QB competition?15:36[-/+]
Washington spent a fifth-round pick on Howell and effectively turned him into an early fourth-rounder. That's a win.

97. Texans, Joe Mixon agree to 3-year, $27 million extension: Reports15:36[-/+]
The Houston Texans and running back Joe Mixon have agreed to a three-year, $27 million contract extension, according to multiple reports. The deal reportedly includes $13 million in guarantees. The Cincinnati Bengals, where Mixon played for seven years, traded him to the Texans earlier this week. He ranked third in franchise history in rushing yards, sixth in total touchdowns and second in carries. GO DEEPERBengals trading RB Joe Mixon to Texans: Sources Last season, Mixon was third in the NFL in rushing attempts, carrying 257 times for 1,034 yards. Mixon, 27, was set to join a crowded class...

98. Jaguars signing former 49ers’ Arik Armstead, per sources: How will he fit in Jacksonville?15:36[-/+]
By Dianna Russini, Matt Barrows, David Lombardi and Randy Mueller The Jacksonville Jaguars are signing former San Francisco 49ers defensive lineman Arik Armstead, according to league sources. The 49ers released the veteran defender earlier this week. Armstead, 30, picked up five sacks in 12 games for the Niners last season. The 2015 first-round pick spent his entire nine-year career with San Francisco tallying 33.5 sacks in 116 games. Before his Wednesday release, Armstead had been the 49ers’ longest-tenured player and the last remaining player who’d been drafted by former general manager...

99. Commanders trade QB Sam Howell to Seahawks: How does he fit with Geno Smith?15:36[-/+]
The Seattle Seahawks have acquired quarterback Sam Howell via a trade with the Washington Commanders, the teams announced Thursday. The trade is pending a physical. The Commanders will send Howell and fourth- and sixth-round picks (Nos. 102 and 179) to Seattle in exchange for third- and fifth-round selections (Nos. 78 and 152). Essentially, Seattle will get its replacement for departed backup Drew Lock in exchange for moving 24 spots back from the third round to the fourth and 27 spots back from the fifth round to the sixth. The Commanders selected Howell in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL...

100. Grading the Desmond Ridder-Rondale Moore trade: Falcons, Cardinals find value in fresh starts15:36[-/+]
Ridder needed a change of scenery while Moore wasn't part of Arizona's future. Trading places just made sense.


 
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