NFL Trade Tracker
The WQB has you covered with every major trade between NFL teams as they look to improve ahead of the upcoming season
With the madness of the 2024 offseason in full swing, The WQB has you covered with every major trade between NFL teams as they look to improve ahead of the upcoming season.
Jerry Jeudy traded from Denver to Cleveland for 2024 5th and 6th round picks.
Mac Jones traded to Jacksonville from New England for 2024th 6th rounder.
Carlton Davis and a ‘24 3rd traded from Tampa Bay to Detroit for a ‘24 6th rounder and ‘25 6th.
NYG acquire Brian Burns from Carolina in exchange for pick 39 and ‘25 5th.
Cincinnati trades Joe Mixon to Houston for a ‘24 7th.
Pittsburgh acquires Donte Jackson and a ‘24 6th from Carolina, sending Diontae Johnson and a ‘24 7th the other way.
Arizona receives Desmond Ridder, with Rondale Moore heading to Atlanta in exchange
Seattle acquires Sam Howell, ‘24 4th and 6th round picks from Washington for a ‘24 3rd and 5th.
Chargers trade Keenan Allen to Chicago for a ‘24 4th rounder.
Kenny Pickett and a ‘24 4th rounder traded from Steelers to Eagles for a ‘24 3rd, plus ‘25 7th and 7th.
Steelers acquire Justin Fields for a ‘25 6th, which becomes a 4th if he plays 51% of snaps in 2024.
Bears Trade Justin Fields to Steelers
The Justin Fields era in Chicago has finally come to an end.
The Justin Fields era in Chicago has finally come to an end. While an inevitability for some time now, Fields’ opportunity at rebirth will take place in a semi-surprising locale.
With the ink barely dry on new Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson’s contract, Pittsburgh reached an accord with Chicago for Fields. In return, the NFC North franchise - who hold the No. 1 pick in next month’s draft - receive a 2025 fifth round pick, which could become a fourth.
Pittsburgh now has a vastly different quarterback room after cutting bait with 2023 starter Kenny Pickett, now a member of the Philadelphia Eagles.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin informed Wilson, who Pittsburgh formally acquired this week after his release from Denver, of the move for Fields before its completion. With it came an assurance that he was the starter.
Fields, 25, is entering his fourth NFL season and will have a chance to take over should Wilson’s form follow the same trajectory of his disastrous two years with the Broncos.
The Ohio State product has always impressed with his dual-threat capabilities, though consistent accuracy has alluded Fields thus far in the pros.
During his time in Chicago, Fields had a 10-28 record. He threw for 6,674 passing yards, 40 touchdowns and 30 interceptions. On the ground he added 2,220 yards and 14 touchdowns.
Chicago is almost certain to take USC standout Caleb Williams with the first pick in the NFL Draft, signaling a new dawn for the long-suffering franchise.
Russell Wilson Joins Pittsburgh Steelers
Russell Wilson will be hoping third time’s a charm when he takes the reigns for Pittsburgh in season 2024
Russell Wilson will be hoping third time’s a charm when he takes the reigns for Pittsburgh in season 2024.
The one-time Super Bowl champion quarterback has declined since his days in Seattle; failing to win over Broncos coach Sean Payton; which led to his release on March 13.
It took just two days for Wilson to find a new home. Despite meeting with the New York Giants, Wilson opted to take his talents to the AFC North. There, Wilson arguably heads into his 13th season as the fourth-best quarterback.
Cincinnati, who finished in last place at 9-8, will regain Joe Burrow at quarterback after missing the season’s final seven games. Cleveland, who finished a game ahead of Pittsburgh (11-6) will have Deshaun Watson back under center after succumbing to a season-ending shoulder injury in Week 10.
Then, there’s Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens, who indubitably will be looking to improve upon their failure in the AFC Championship Game against Kansas City.
Despite the difficult in-division opposition, Pittsburgh have much to be pleased about with Wilson. He is a definitive upgrade on Kenny Pickett and Mason Rudolph. That’s without mentioning the Steelers are only paying Wilson the veteran minimum, owing to the contract he has with Denver.
Specifically, Wilson will receive $1.21 million from the Steelers and $39 million from his former employer in 2024.
There will be more money on the way should Wilson have a renaissance year and help Pittsburgh return to the postseason.
Dan Marino Talks Super Bowl Disappointment Ahead Of ‘Ring of Comfort’ Commercial Set For Super Bowl LVIII
Throughout his 17-year NFL career, Dan Marino was known for much though perhaps he is most harshly remembered for what he – or more specifically, the Miami Dolphins – could not achieve during his tenure.
Marino is recognized as one of the greatest signal-callers and held a litany of records throughout his illustrious career but could not will his franchise to a third Lombardi Trophy.
Despite it now being a punchline, even used by himself in an upcoming M&Ms commercial set for Super Bowl LVIII, missing out on an elusive Super Bowl ring still lingers.
“I tell people all the time, I did everything possible with my career,” Marino told The Messenger.
“I mean, broke records, played a long time, a lot of winning all that stuff, but that was the only thing that I never was able to accomplish. And does it? Yeah. Does it stick in your mind? Does it? Yes, it's there. It's definitely there.
“And even when I watched the game this year, it's always there. You have that feeling because that's what you do. That was your ultimate goal. And so, you know, that's gonna be there no matter what. And it's past. It's good. I mean, I accept it. I wish I could still play so I could try to do it again. But I can't.”
Marino may not be able to play these days, but if he were able, he thinks his long standing single-season touchdown pass record -- which he set with 48 in 1984 -- and the present one, could very well be shattered.
“Well, since I don't have to do it, I would say 60,” he said. That would be five more than Peyton Manning’s record of 55, set in 2013 – and five more than he theorized to Dan Patrick in 2019.
Without a return to football possible, Marino is now receiving recognition, and comfort, for coming up short in Super Bowl XIX against Joe Montana and the San Francisco 49ers.
Marino, Terrell Owens and Bruce Smith star in a hilarious M&Ms Super Bowl commercial, whereby the legendary triumvirate receive a ring of comfort; making light of their failed attempts to win the Super Bowl.
While there is no true contemporary comparison to his situation, Marino says Bills quarterback Josh Allen best exemplifies that individual quarterback excellence can be insufficient for the ultimate prize.
Despite his allegiance to the Dolphins, the 1984 MVP is pulling for Allen to get his opportunity to take Buffalo to the promised land.
“Josh Allen is as good a quarterback as it gets in the NFL,” Marino said. “He's comparable to anybody in the league. He is a guy that will be around a long time, he'll play at a high level for a long time. And he'll definitely get his opportunities in the future, I hope in the future to see, you know, maybe he's in a Super Bowl.”
The Bills overcame a .500 record through 12 games to claim a fourth consecutive AFC East title and simultaneously deny Miami its first division crown in 15 years. Miami made the postseason for a second year running but once more failed to win a playoff game – a feat not achieved since 2000 – thanks to a loss at Kansas City amid below freezing temperatures.
While admitting the failures of the 2023 season, Marino – who currently serves as a special advisor for Miami – sees brighter times ahead.
“I think everybody on the team, organization, fans; everybody, we're a little disappointed, but also very positive in the fact that I think we do have a lot of very good players and people that can bring us through to the point where we can win a Super Bowl someday and be in that position,” he said.
“And that's all you're looking for. We had run into a little bit of an injury bug at the end -- that's not an excuse, but we did and that's part of it -- and then playing in Kansas City and it was 22-below that's tough conditions for anybody. I don't care who you are.
“But you gotta take care of your own business first, and I believe that everybody thinks that you know, we’ve got a shot to continue to grow as a team and be there one day.”
If you’re wondering what Marino’s role at the Dolphins involves, it of course includes working with the quarterbacks, namely starter Tua Tagovailoa. As for this offseason, Marino will help Miami shape the future he hopes will include the prize which escaped him while under center.
“In the next couple of weeks, probably just be a part of some of the process of what direction the team's going as far as the draft is concerned, as far as you know, what we do as a group,” he said of his offseason duties.
“But I feel very comfortable about the people there. I love them all, and I believe we're going in the right direction.”
Cornerbacks, skill position players and of course, quarterbacks, are Marino’s self-professed specialties when it comes to evaluation. While the Dolphins are healthily stocked at the pass-catching positions, more talent is welcome.
Just don’t call it a cherry on top.
“Not a cherry on top. We need M&Ms peanut butter,” Marino, ever the company man, quipped.
Patrick Mahomes or Brock Purdy will receive bling to cement their place in football immortality at the end of Super Bowl LVIII.
Marino will get fitted out too, a vehicle of solace for what happened in the same game almost 40 years ago.
“At least now I get my ring of comfort from peanut butter M&Ms, which I'm excited about,” he added.
Known for his generosity, perhaps Marino will lend it to the quarterback who endures the same fate in Las Vegas.
Roger Goodell Questioned Link Between Concussion and Long-Term Effects: Report
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell questioned the relationship between concussions and lasting neurological damage during a 2022 deposition, according to Front Office Sports.
It is a notable comment from the league's figurehead given the NFL has paid out more than $1.3 billion to ex-players who have alleged their employment as pro football players caused brain injuries later in life.
The outlet obtained a transcript of the July 2022 deposition relating to a lawsuit against the league regarding head injury settlement.
It was there, Goodell critiqued the media's coverage of head injuries, saying "they misstate, they misrepresent things, and when they do that, they add to a narrative that I think is unfair and unfounded.”
When asked about a link between concussion and resultant brain injuries, Goodell replied; “I think there’s still a great deal of uncertainty about the causation issue, if that’s what you’re referring to.”
Following the unsealing of the court document, the NFL provided a statement to Front Office Sports Tuesday.
“The league’s position remains unchanged. Player health and safety is a top priority of the NFL, as the Commissioner testified and has long stated," it read.
"The NFL has made and continues to make great strides to try to make the game safer for its players, including through rule changes, equipment advances, and by donating to and supporting critical scientific and medical research.”
Goodell added during the near nine-hour deposition that while risks are associated with playing pro football, they exist in everyday life.
“We all know there’s risks with playing football and other sports. There’s risks to walking down the street," he said.
In 2013, the NFL agreed to settle a $765 million lawsuit with former players wherein the league agreed to pay for medical exams, research and compensate those affected after more than 4,500 ex-players sued the shield.
Several past players, including Junior Seau, Vincent Jackson and Ken Stabler, have donated their brains to science in order to greater understand their conditions, if any, and more broadly how contact sport may have shaped those outcomes. Goodell welcomed this, expounding on how it is a step in the right direction.
Per the report, Goodell was asked by counsel, “Did you find it an issue of concern for the NFL that multiple NFL players committed suicide and left notes indicating that they wanted their brains studied, to determine whether their injuries resulted from their play in the NFL?”
He Goodell replied, “I’m not sure I would agree with that entire statement. I think players who want to participate in the research necessary to advance science is a positive thing for us. Obviously, the circumstances are incredibly unfortunate.”
Travis Kelce Preferred Winning AFC Championship on the Road
The Kansas City Chiefs are the NFL's new road warriors after beating up on the AFC's top two seeds, Buffalo and then Baltimore, to punch their ticket to Las Vegas for Super Bowl LVIII against the San Francisco 49ers.
After an inconsistent regular season, Kansas City has once again become the AFC's dominant force; reaching the Super Bowl for the fourth time in five years.
Sunday's 17-10 win over Baltimore was the Chiefs' first road AFC Championship victory, and an extra special moment for star tight end Travis Kelce.
"It just it feels like it's a little bit sweeter man," Travis told his brother, Jason, on Wednesday's episode of New Heights.
Prior to the 27-24 Divisional Round win at Buffalo, the Patrick Mahomes-era Chiefs had never played in a road (non-Super Bowl) playoff game.
"You know, I don't want to rip out anybody's heart in K.C. but this road to where we are now has been more of a challenge, which means you have to overcome more, which it kind of means a little bit more."
The Chiefs finished the season as the AFC West champions with an 11-6 record. Though, the reigning world champs lost three of four between Weeks 13-16, including a 20-14 Christmas Day home loss to the Raiders.
"And although I cherish all the games that I play in Arrowhead, every single one of them baby, this one meant a lot man because, and it meant a lot because the guys we had and how we persevered through a lot of the things that we weren't doing during the season. And it just it just felt that much better with those guys."
Since, Kansas City has five wins in a row and could be the first team since the 2003-04 New England Patriots to go back-to-back.
"You could feel it in the locker room afterwards, feel it on the plane ride home. Typically if you win one at home, you just go straight from the field to your house or to wherever your family is off the field. This one we got to have an entire two-hour flight to ourselves where it was just us partying on the frickin' plane back home."
Kelce personally had reason to celebrate; as he surpassed Jerry Rice for the most postseason catches in NFL history in to an 11-catch, 116-yard, one-touchdown performance.
Jerry Jones Says There’s ‘No Doubt’ He Could Work With Bill Belichick
Jerry Jones may have stuck with his head coach in favor of a move for Bill Belichick, but the charismatic Cowboys owner theoretically could see a positive relationship with the six-time Super Bowl-winning head coach.
Jones skirted around questions relating to contact with Belichick after pressure came upon head coach Mike McCarthy following Dallas' blowout loss at home to Green Bay in the Wildcard, but spoke highly of Belichick.
“I know him personally and I like him,” Jones said Tuesday, via Yahoo Sports. “There’s no doubt in my mind we could work together. None. None.”
Belichick was floated as a potential replacement for McCarthy even before the 48-32 loss in the opening weekend of the playoffs, with many believing Belichick could be the man to take Dallas to its first NFC title game since 1995 -- and beyond.
“We all know that he’s certainly excellent, maybe at the top of his profession,” Jones added of Belichick. “To say that any one person automatically assures you a Super Bowl is ridiculous. That’s too high [an] expectation for him. But is he maybe the greatest pro football coach of all time? Could very well be.
“He is a friend and I like him and I want to make real clear: I wouldn’t have any problem working with him.”
Though, Jones opted to keep McCarthy, for next season at least, and added "I am 100 percent supportive of him as our head coach and ability to reach our goals," in a statement announcing McCarthy's return.
The former Packers head coach contract with Dallas runs through the 2024 season. He has led the Cowboys to three consecutive 12-win seasons, though they have not progressed to an NFC title game under McCarthy, nor in the 21st century.
“His work with (quarterback) Dak [Prescott], his work in the offense was really good,” Jones added of McCarthy.
“I feel and he feels, we all feel, that there’s notable more to do improving with Dak. Best way to get the meat that’s on the bone is continuity.”
As for whether he believes Belichick will be a head coach in the league next season, Jones gave little.
“I don’t know,” he said. “I don’t know. I wouldn’t speculate.”
Travis Kelce Says Justin Tucker Was Being ‘A F—— Dick’, Caused Pregame Beef
Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes' pregame back-and-forth with Ravens kicker Justin Tucker caused a stir ahead of the AFC Championship Game, and according to Kelce, occurred because Tucker was acting up.
The future Hall of Fame kicker annoyed the legendary Chiefs duo after refusing to vacate the area Mahomes was attempting to warm up in; ostensibly, an act of mind games.
While Tucker was stretching, Kelce picked up all of his practice footballs and threw them away, then did the same with his helmet. After moving a matter of inches, Mahomes was then seen kicking away Tucker's kicking tee. After Tucker set the tee back up, Mahomes then picked it up and threw it away again.
"It's always if you're if you're trying to go on to the other teams designated area, you kind of stay out of their way," Kelce said on Wednesday's New Heights episode, of kickers practicing near the opposing team.
"You know you don't you don't interfere with what they have going on. That is the unwritten rule. If you want to be a f------ dick about it, you keep your helmet and your football and your fucking kicking tee right where the quarterbacks are warming up and they're dropping [back]," he added of Tucker.
"Eyes are looking left and they got a helmet down by their feet. Like if you're not going to pick that up. I'll happily move that for you."
Kelce noted Tucker spoke about the exchange following the game, suggesting it was all fun and games to him but that the Chiefs pair seemed to have taken it more seriously.
"I get it. I mean he was kind of winking at me, like being a dick about it like, trying to get under the skin. … We just weren't in a joking mood. We were ready to get after it. So, Justin, sorry if we took it to a level that you didn't think it to that way but if you're going to be a dick, I promise you, I can one up you every time."
Kelce's elder brother, Jason -- a Pro Bowl center for the Eagles -- also spoke to the matter, theorizing that Tucker was intentional with his positioning.
"Tucker is known for this," he said. "I mean, he's a legendary kicker. And he knows he knows how to poke the buttons, He does this, and there's other kickers that will do it too, other punters. ...You can see his facial expressions. He knows what he's doing."
Jason added that while he may have achieved his goal of getting under Kelce's skin it worked adversely, as the Chiefs tight end had 11 catches fr 116 yards and a touchdown in Kansas City's 17-10 win.
"It worked in the wrong way because it was a record day for the Yeti… it was probably one of your best performances I've ever seen; which is crazy because you've had some unbelievable ones."
Tom Brady Merging TB12, Brady Brand With Apparel Company NoBull
Tom Brady is used to working late into January and it seems he is keeping up old habits despite his NFL career now being in the past.
The seven-time Super Bowl champion announced Tuesday he is merging his TB12 and Brady Brand entities with apparel company NoBull.
Brady becomes second-largest stakeholder in the company behind BodyArmor sports drink founder, and friend, Mike Repole.
NoBull will look to be more than an apparel brand; with aspirations of being a “complete wellness company" through sales of apparel, nutrition and footwear -- the first two of which were synonymous with Brady's companies.
“It was kind of a no-brainer for me,” Brady told Front Office Sports Today podcast. “When I retired from playing, I had much more intention to focus on the business things I had going on, and this was step number one.”
Per Front Office Sports, the NoBull name will be retained.
“They’re all going to be on this one platform,” says told Front Office Sports. “We haven’t decided between Brady, TB12, NoBull, how it’s all going to play out.”
Seattle Seahawks Hiring Ravens’ Mike Macdonald as New Head Coach
The Seattle Seahawks have found their successor to Pete Carroll.
Wile a deal is not yet finalized, ESPN's Adam Schefter is reporting that Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald is expected to be Seattle's new head coach.
Macdonald, 36, will become the youngest head coach in the NFL, taking that title from new Patriots coach Jerod Mayo.
Under Macdonald's leadership, Baltimore were the No. 1 defense through the 2023 regular season.
Macdonald's season ended last Sunday, as the Chiefs knocked out the Ravens in the AFC Championship Game 17-10.
Devonta Smith Has One Wish for New Eagles Offensive Coordinator Kellen Moore
The Philadelphia Eagles ushered in a new era after a disastrous collapse in the 2023 season, appointing new coordinators; including former Chargers and Cowboys offensive coordinator, Kellen Moore.
Just a few days into his new job, Moore is already receiving advice including some from standout receiver Devonta Smith on the Up And Adams Show Wednesday.
"Just let us do what we do...," Smith said on the Up And Adams Show in a joint interview with teammate AJ Brown.
The Eagles' offense struggled in the second half of the season under first-year offensive coordinator Brian Johnson, leading to his firing. Despite being eighth in the NFL in total yards, Philadelphia lost six of its last seven games culminating with a 32-9 Wild Card Round loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Quarterback Jalen Hurts, coming off a MVP-caliber season in 2022, also regressed under Johnson. While he had similar passing yards and touchdown totals, the 25-year-old threw 15 interceptions compared to just six last season.
This regression trickled down to Smith, who saw 24 fewer targets and reeled in 14 fewer passes than he did last season. However, he still had a productive season finishing with 81 catches for 1,066 yards and seven touchdowns.
The 35-year-old Moore is no stranger to the NFC East. Before spending one season with the Chargers, he was the Cowboys' offensive coordinator from 2019 to 2022. During that time, his offenses were top-four in the NFL in points per game, yards per game, and third-down conversion percentage.
Chiefs, 49ers to Stay Away From Las Vegas Strip In Super Bowl Week
The San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs will meet in Super Bowl LVIII on Feb. 11 after thrilling wins in their respective championship games.
While it will be a rematch of Super Bowl LIV, which the Chiefs won 31-20, the scenery will be much different. According to The Messenger's Arash Markazi, both franchises will be staying away from the famed Las Vegas strip.
This season's Super Bowl will be the first in the state of Nevada, in the Las Vegas Raiders' Allegiant Stadium.
The Chiefs, in their fourth Super Bowl in five years, will spend Super Bowl week as the Westin Lake Las Vegas; a 25-mile drive to the strip.
As for San Francisco, they'll reside at Hilton Lake Las Vegas -- which is just 1.2 miles from Kansas City's quarters.
Given the two franchises met in Miami for Super Bowl LIV, one would figure the distractions of Sin City would be a little easier to accomplish.
Kansas City is annually on the road in Vegas to play the division-rival Raiders. Patrick Mahomes and Co. have a 4-0 record at Allegiant Stadium, albeit against Las Vegas, who are no match for the reigning NFC Champion.
Thanks to some planning, it looks like players and staff will find some peace along the lake amid the chaos of Super Bowl week.
Dan Campbell Says He Doesn’t Regret Fourth Down Calls Despite Lions’ NFC Championship Loss
The Detroit Lions gave up a 17-point lead in the NFC Championship Game, ultimately losing to the San Francisco 49ers, 34-31, Sunday night.
Many have already laid blame at the feet of Lions head coach Dan Campbell, who twice went for it -- and failed -- on fourth down despite being in field goal range.
The first was a 4th & 2 at the San Francisco 28-yard line while ahead 24-10 with just over seven minutes remaining in the third quarter. Though, the second attempt was on a 4th & 3 from the Niners' 30-yard line with Detroit down 27-24.
San Francisco scored a touchdown on its subsequent drives following the Lions' turnover on downs. Not that Dan Campbell looks back with repent.
"I just felt really good about us converting, and getting our momentum and then not letting them play long ball," Campbell told reporters postgame.
"They were bleeding the clock out. That's what they do. And I wanted to get the upper hand back. You know, it's easy [with] hindsight and I get it, you know, I get that. But I don't regret those decisions. And that's hard.
"It's hard because we didn't come through, it wasn't able to work out but I just I don't. I don't. And I understand the scrutiny, I'll get, that's part of the gig, man. But we just didn't work out."
There were other moments which dearly cost the Lions an inaugural Super Bowl berth. Namely, Kindle Vildor's missed interception which led to a 51-yard catch from Brandon Aiyuk, and Jahmyr Gibbs' fumble which also led to another 49ers touchdown.
Wide receiver Josh Reynolds made two inexplicable drops on third and fourth down respectively, both ended drives. In addition, to a Lions punt which could've been downed at the one-yard line, only to be a touchback.
As for the loss itself, Campbell gave a vivid description of how he felt postgame after surrendering a 24-7 halftime lead.
"It's like getting your heart ripped out and it's hard, you know, it's hard," he said.
"We didn't come in at half -- nobody [was] really doing backflips, like 'alright we got this thing won.'
"They know better. We all know better. We talked about, we knew they were gonna make a run in the second half. We talked about it. We knew we were gonna have to weather a storm in the second half, and so when they started to make a push, we weren't surprised.
"We just couldn't counter back and we've always been able to counter back, we just couldn't quite do it in this one."
Brandon Aiyuk Credits a Ladybug for Wild Game-Changing Catch in 49ers’ NFC Championship Win
The Detroit Lions looked destined for a Super Bowl at several stages throughout the NFC Championship Game but ultimately lost to San Francisco 34-31 in the NFC Championship Game.
While Campbell's decisions to go neglect two field goal tries in favor of going for it on fourth down -- and failing on both occasions -- affected the outcome, 49ers receiver Brandon Aiyuk made a game-changing play of his own. His explanation for why it happened postgame was as unique as the play itself.
"Before the game, a ladybug landed on my shoe and y'all know what that means," Aiyuk told Erin Andrews, crediting the creature for the catch.
"That's all I can say, 'cause I don't know. I don't know. Just great luck, God was with us today. Great win, bang bang Niner gang."
With San Francisco trailing 24-10 with 6:29 remaining in the third quarter, quarterback Brock Purdy launched a deep ball in Aiyuk's direction, but it was almost picked off by Lions corner Kindle Vildor.
Except that's not what happened. Instead, the ball hit Vildor's hand and then facemask before Aiyuk was able to dive and collect the ball at the Detroit four-yard line.
Three plays after the 51-yard gain, Aiyuk scored a touchdown to bring San Francisco within one score. The 49ers would then add 18 unanswered points to secure a 34-24 lead with just over three minutes remaining.
Detroit added a late touchdown but failed to recover an onside kick within the final minute of the game. The win sets up a rematch with the Kansas City Chiefs, who beat the Niners in Super Bowl LIV four years ago.
Jason Kelce Gets Emotional With Travis Kelce After Chiefs’ AFC Title Win
Jason Kelce may have fallen asleep during the Chiefs-Ravens AFC Championship Game. But once Kansas City had punched its ticket to Super Bowl LVII, he had certainly come to life.
After his brother, Chiefs tight end Travis, had recited the main hook from The Beastie Boys' "Fight For Your Right" and kissed Taylor Swift, Jason embraced his brother in an emotional moment on the M&T Bank field.
"You're the best in the world," Jason told Travis, as the two hugged it out before the former became choked up.
"I know it wasn't easy, I know it was a hard year. You guys f------ stayed true, finish this thing," Jason added. "Finish this motherf-----, finish this motherf-----."
Travis was understandably pumped but had to regulate his breathing in order to stave off the tears.
The pair mentioned their love for one another before they separated as Travis continued to celebrate Kansas City's second consecutive AFC Championship victory.
Travis and the Chiefs will play in their fourth Super Bowl within the last five years on Feb. 11 against the Detroit Lions or San Francisco 49ers.
The future Hall of Fame tight end finished Sunday's game with 11 receptions for 116 yards and a touchdown.
Patrick Mahomes Says Chiefs ‘Not Done Yet’ After Booking Super Bowl Ticket
Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs cannot be stopped in the postseason.
The reigning world champions booked a second consecutive Super Bowl appearance, and fourth in five years, with a 17-10 win in the AFC Championship Game vs. Baltimore.
Speaking to CBS sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson, Mahomes spoke to the Chiefs' rollercoaster season and what's to come.
"It's been a heck of a year," Mahomes said. "We're not done yet, but this is the way to get there.
"God put a lot of adversity in our way this year and we accepted the challenge, and we're better for it," he said earlier.
Mahomes was 30-for-39, throwing for 241 yards and a touchdown as the Chiefs dominated time of possession -- holding a 15-minute advantage.
The Chiefs will face either the Detroit Lions, in what would be their first Super Bowl, or the San Francisco 49ers -- which would be a rematch of Super Bowl LIV.
Warren Sapp Rips Derrick Henry, Says He’s ‘Easy to Hit’ and a ‘One-Trick Pony’
Pro Football Hall of Famer Warren Sapp has never been known to hold hid tongue, and this week gave a brutal critique of running back Derrick Henry.
During his weekly spot on Fearless With Jason Whitlock, Sapp was discussing the downfall of ex-Titans head coach Mike Vrabel in Nashville when he brought up Henry.
"The only thing that derailed him was they gave him a bad quarterback and an oversized running back that's easy to hit," Sapp said of Will Levis and Henry.
Whitlock was ostensibly disgusted with Sapp's bold take, suggesting it was "disrespect", before claiming Henry is the closest comparison to Browns legend Jim Brown in years.
"Stop that. Don't disrespect Jim. God bless him. Jim, don't roll over in your grave, please," Sapp replied.
"Boy, are you crazy? Are you mad? Are you mad? What? What? What a stiff-arm? Jim Brown didn't stiff-arm nobody, he just ran through them.
"Derrick Henry is up and down. Easy to hit. Yeah, that's how you broke your [foot]."
Henry suffered a fractured foot during the 2021 season while running the ball against the Indianapolis Colts.
The former Alabama star is set to become a free agent after spending the first eight seasons of his career with the Tennessee Titans.
"You know what else is harder? Teaching an old dog to catch a ball and play third down, and scan for the new blitzes that he's never done in his life," Sapp said of Henry.
"And now when teams look at you and you put Derrick Henry in the game, we know he can't catch we know he can't scan for a blitx. So let's give him the blitz right up his [ass] because they're gonna hand it to him. Why else would they put him in the game? There's nothing else you can do with him.
"He's a classic one-trick pony. And he's easy to hit; just hit him in the knees, hit him in the legs. Don't let him stiff-arm you. He ain't got no more bounce to jump over you."
Henry rushed for 1,167 yards and 12 touchdowns on 280 carries in 2023; averaging 68.6 yards per game.
It was his second consecutive 1,000-yard season. Across his eight seasons in the league, Henry has rushed for 1,000 on five occasions, including a 2,000-yard season in 2020.
Cam Newton Loves Jason and Travis Kelce’s Relationship: ‘It’s Pure’
Former NFL MVP Cam Newton has spoken glowingly of the relationship between Travis and Jason Kelce after the latter's amusing cameo during the Chiefs' Divsional win at Buffalo last Sunday.
Newton was one of tens of millions who witnessed Jason Kelce jump out of a suite shirtless at Highmark Stadium to celebrate Travis's second quarter touchdown.
Speaking on his 4th & 1 podcast, Newton praised Jason and the bond with his brother.
"I love the Kelces," Newton said in Wednesday's episode. "It's pure, it is something where it's radiant bro.
"I've seen this and I'm saying to myself like 'bro, I want to be in the suite," he said of Kelce's theatrics at the game Sunday.
"He's just embodying just football. Beer, shirt off, I'm cheering my brother. You can't tell me a motherf----- thing," Newton added.
The former Panthers and Patriots quarterback, who has seven kids of his own, hopes his sons grow up with a similar rapport to that of the Kelce boys.
"What they have, on screen, what it looks like to me; they have a genuine connection," he said.
"It's fun, it's authentic. It's just like yo, 'I like that.' Me having my children, I would want them, when they get older, that they have that same type of love, desire and compassion for each other. [They're] fun. You want to be around them.
"You got Travis who's like the bachelor wild guy, you got Jason who's more or less like the family guy. Perfect dynamic. Happy retirement to you, Jason. And yeah, man. It's just it's like a cool family."
Carolina Panthers Hiring Dave Canales as Head Coach: Report
The Carolina Panthers will be appointing Tampa Bay's offensive coordinator Dave Canales as its next head coach, per multiple reports.
Canales, who was in his first season as an OC in 2023, has already been offered the position according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
While a deal has not yet been officially struck, it is expected to be an inevitability.
Canales helped Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield revive his NFL career and will be expected to help rejuvenate rookie QB, Bryce Young, who had a tough rookie year in Charlotte.
The Los Angeles native spent 13 years with the Seattle Seahawks between 2010-2023.
From 2018-22 he was the team's quarterbacks coach, working with the likes of Russell Wilson and Geno Smith before accepting the OC in Tampa.
Cam Newton Says Lamar Jackson Is the Most ‘Dynamic Player in All of Football,’ Praises His Dedication
This NFL season has been the Lamar Jackson show. The Baltimore Ravens signal caller has put together arguably the best season of his career, and perhaps the most effective year by a dual-threat quarterback since Cam Newton in 2015.
Newton, who won the MVP that season for the Carolina Panthers, had high praise for Jackson during Wednesday's episode of his 4th & 1 show.
"There's not a more dynamic player in all of football than Lamar Jackson," Newton said. "Patrick Mahomes, dynamic in his own right. A different dynamic. But electric."
That's not an extremely unique take. Ever since he took over as the Ravens' starter in Week 11 of the 2018 season, the 2016 Heisman Trophy winner has been a human highlight reel, making defenses pay with his arm and his legs.
But this season has seen Jackson take it to another level. After injuries sidelined him for the conclusion of Baltimore's last two seasons, the righty has been a force to be reckoned with this year.
Jackson, in his sixth season in the NFL, is likely to win his second league MVP award. During the regular season, the 27-year-old completed a career-high 67.2% of his passes, tossing for 3,678 yards, 24 touchdowns and just seven interceptions. He also racked up 821 yards (the most among quarterbacks) and five touchdowns on the ground.
Now, Jackson has a chance to match what Newton did with Carolina in 2015 — not only win the MVP, but lead his team to a Super Bowl appearance.
But even if the Ravens are unable to knock off Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs in Sunday's AFC Championship Game, Newton still thinks Jackson's season - and career thus far - will be one to remember.
"If he stops playing right now, he still is great," Newton said. "He's the [second] youngest MVP to ever receive that award, ever. But you're gonna sit up here and tell me 'Oh, he gotta win a Super Bowl.' The guy has done everything he was supposed to do."
One of the reasons Jackson has been so prolific during his career, according to Newton? Dedication to his craft.
Jackson entered the league as the 32nd overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, but with a specific distinction; he was the last of five quarterbacks selected in the first round, behind Baker Mayfield (Cleveland Browns), Sam Darnold (New York Jets), Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills) and Josh Rosen (Arizona Cardinals).
Only one of those quarterbacks, Allen, is still a bonafide star with the team that drafted him. Mayfield, who Cleveland traded away in 2021, put together a bounce-back year with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, leading the franchise to the Divisional Round.
But Darnold is currently the San Francisco 49ers' backup, while Rosen is out of the league. Jackson, on the other hand, is the only one of that group to win an MVP.
On Sunday, he has a chance to become the only one to lead his franchise to a conference title. It's all the result of years of hard work.
"You can't name me a commercial that Lamar Jackson's on," Newton added. "You can't even probably name me an endorsement that Lamar Jackson has. Lamar Jackson is the epitome of keeping the main thing the main thing."