2022 Pro Bowl rosters revealed
There were plenty of surprises as the NFL released the 2022 Pro Bowl rosters.
Earlier today, the NFL announced the AFC and NFC All-Stars for the 2022 Pro Bowl — a moment many players and fans had been awaiting all season long.
Roster selections are determined by the consensus votes of fans, players and coaches. Each group’s vote counts one-third toward determining the 88 selected players.Twenty-six teams had at least one player selected to the 2022 Pro Bowl roster and 23 clubs had multiple players chosen as Pro Bowlers.
The 8-6 Indianapolis Colts led all teams with seven Pro Bowl selections while the AFC West’s Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers each had six players chosen. Five teams – the Baltimore Ravens, Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, San Francisco 49ers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers – each have five players at the Pro Bowl.
Tom Brady was selected to his 15th Pro Bowl — the most of any player ever in NFL history — while Green Bay’s Aaron Rodgers was selected to his 10th Pro Bowl. Each of the four other quarterbacks selected are drastically younger – the Chargers’ Justin Herbert, Baltimore’s Lamar Jackson, Kansas City’s Patrick Mahomes and Arizona’s Kyler Murray – are all under the age of 27.
Thirty-one of the 88 players were selected to the Pro Bowl for the first-time. Four rookies will make their first bow; Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase , Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons, Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts and Chargers tackle Rashawn Slater.
Other first-time Pro Bowlers recognized for their sensational seasons included Dallas’ Trevon Diggs, Baltimore’s Devin Duvernay, Indianapolis’ Jonathan Taylor and Tampa Bay’s Tristan Wirfs.
As for the coaching staffs, they will be filled from the losing teams in the Divisional playoffs with the best regular-season records. Try reading that quickly. Here are the Pro Bowl selections in full:
The 2022 Pro Bowl kicks off at 3:00 PM ET on Sunday, February 6, and will be televised on ESPN and will be simulcast on ABC in the United States. Tickets are available now on ProBowl.com and will allow fans special benefits on gameday including access to the Pro Bowl Red Carpet and other family friendly activities.
Top performers from Week 13
A threesome stood out above all others yesterday.
Another chaotic Sunday has come and gone in the NFL. Like every other before it, there was upsets, blowouts and of course, nail-biting finishes. With just four weeks remaining, the consequences from 60 minutes of football grow immeasurably.
Without further ado here are just some of the men who dragged their team toward victory. In most cases they walked away with a W, but there were a select few stars who fought valiantly in the face of defeat.
TOM BRADY
Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady led the Bucs to a thrilling 33-27 overtime win vs. Buffalo, passing for 363 yards and two touchdowns. Crucially, the seven-time Super Bowl winner threw no interceptions, amassing a 105.6 rating. In a rare feat, Brady added a rushing touchdown in as the Bucs soared to 10-3.
Brady — already the league's all-time leader in passing yards (83,338) and passing touchdowns (617) — surpassed Drew Brees (7,142) for the most completions in NFL history, adding another record to a list longer than St. Nicholas’
TB12 has 4,134 passing yards through 13 weeks, his 13th career season with at least 4,000 passing yards, surpassing Brees (12 seasons) and Philip Rivers (12) for the second-most 4,000-yardage seasons all-time.
PATRICK MAHOMES
Chiefs star quarterback Patrick Mahomes shone brightly in Kansas City’s 48-9 demolition of AFC West rival Las Vegas. The Raiders never stood a chance as Mahomes completed 20 of 24 pass attempts — 83.3% completion rate — for 258 yards and two touchdowns. Mahomes’ zero turnovers will please Andy Reid to no end, as the Chiefs claimed their sixth win in a row.
Kansas City is the first defense since Seattle’s 2014 legion of boom to allow fewer than 10 points four times across a five-game stretch. Including yesterday’s victory, the Chiefs have held their opponents to nine points in three straight games (Cowboys, Broncos & Raiders) from Weeks 11-13. Their defensive hot streak began with a blanketing of an Aaron Rodgers-less Green Bay Packers back in Week 9.
Mahomes has 10 career games with a passer rating of 130-or-higher (minimum 20 attempts), taking the mantle from former Ram & Hall of Famer Kurt Warner and current quarterbacks Deshaun Watson and Russell Wilson for the most during their first five seasons.
JUSTIN HERBERT
Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert put on a show during his team’s 37-21 blitzing of the lowly New York Giants. The sophomore passed for 275 yards and three touchdowns for a 133.1 quarterback rating.
The 23-year-old is the fourth-youngest player to reach 8,000 passing yards in NFL history. Only the Saints’ Jameis Winston (22 years, 361 days), Panthers’ Sam Darnold (23 years, 212 days) and former Patriot Drew Bledsoe (23 years, 236 days) reached the mark at a younger age.
The Oregon product is the second-youngest player to reach 60 career touchdown passes in NFL history. Only Hall of Famer Dan Marino (23 years, 78 days) reached the mark at a younger age.
Herbert is the first player ever in the National Football League to throw for 30 touchdowns in each of his first two seasons.
Matthew Judon: Patriots’ confidence will never waiver
The Patriots’ star free-agent acquisition is feeling phenomenal right now, and with good reason.
The New England Patriots are back, and it’s almost as if they’ve never left.
Six consecutive wins has New England primed for a playoff assault at 8-4, as they currently hold the #2 seed in the AFC. One of the foremost contributors to the Pats’ renaissance is Matthew Judon. The former Baltimore Raven, acquired during New England’s offseason spending spree, has dominated on the edge — adding a fear factor to their pass rush previously unseen.
Judon once again starred, sacking Ryan Tannehill once, in addition to four solo tackles. The two-time Pro Bowler has reason for being supremely assured about his — and the team’s — play. Since their six-game winning streak, no team has a greater points differential in the NFL. That’s just one of the many reasons Judon’s belief is unshakable.
"It is the same confidence,”Judon said postgame, Nov 28. “We didn't change, we won't waver and it is the same confidence we had when we were 2-4. It doesn't matter if it is a tight game or a blowout, our confidence won't change and we won't waver as a team, as a unit and as players. We come in this building to work every day and we are only going to continue to get better."
Despite their injuries, Tennessee’s arrival in New England was seen as a premier AFC matchup, perhaps even a prelude to the AFC Championship Game. Though Judon wasn’t overly in agreement with those sentiments.
"I think someone asked me that a couple weeks ago and the statement or whatever you want to call it, is we have to come out here and win every single game,” he said.
“One week at a time so if we don't give up any points and no yards, that game is a statement and every week we have to strive for a statement win. If you want to call this a statement or if you just want to call it the next game, we just have to take it week by week and go out there. The statement for us is on to the next week."
Despite The Patriot Way being a common focal point among media circles, Judon plays and carries himself with a swagger, something he has not lost since his move from Baltimore.
"I always have fun. I always try to keep it light and cheery but I think that is just who I am,” Judon said. “Right now, I am just producing and my teammates and coaches hype me up. It is easier to be around people like that and it is all love here. As far as the fun that I am having, I couldn't imagine a better year with any better teammates, they are great."
Judon’s teammates may be great off the field and they’ll most definitely taking some beating on it.
Look out, NFL.
Raiders’ backup QB Marcus Mariota to regularly feature in playoff push
Mariota has shown flashes of why he was drafted second overall by Tennessee. That can only mean good things for Vegas.
The Las Vegas Raiders’ thrilling road victory in Dallas on Thanksgiving was a thing of beauty for most on a day of celebration. Quarterback Derek Carr was instrumental in the victory, while his backup Marcus Mariota also had a hand in the Raiders’ 36-33 win.
The former Tennessee signal-caller has been called upon throughout the season to mix up Vegas’ offensive schemes and it’s fair to say Mariota has been effective. The 28-year-old scored a pivotal rushing touchdown on Thanksgiving, putting the Raiders up 23-13 at Jerry World.
Sitting at 6-5, just outside the wildcard spots, Las Vegas will continue to use Mariota, according to interim head coach Rich Bisaccia.
“I think you saw [offensive coordinator] Greg [Olson] do a great job of this week, we had him in there multiple times and he ends up scoring a touchdown for us because of his athletic ability and what he can do in certain situations, but certainly what we are asking him to do,” Bisaccia told Vegas media on Monday. “Without giving too much away, I think he is hopefully going to be a part of the packages as we go forward. He practices like he’s preparing to play all the time. And the other thing is, it’s really hard to take No. 4 (Derek Carr) out from behind the center as well, especially if he’s playing the way he played on Thanksgiving Day.”
Some quarterbacks can become frustrated when snaps are taken away from them, though Mariota’s fellow quarterback Derek Carr isn’t most QBs. The Fresno State product is known as a standup teammate and Bisaccia echoed those sentiments Monday.
“I think on the touchdown, you saw Derek might have been the first or second guy out there to congratulate him. So, I think Derek is about the team,” he said. “Derek is about doing whatever we can do to put ourselves in position to win a game. I think you see it by the way in which he prepares, by the way in which he plays, and they certainly have a professional relationship with respect to each other’s job and what they are trying to do to help us win.
“So, I don’t feel like that’s an issue in any way. I just feel like they are certainly competitors, but I certainly think they want to do whatever they can do to help us win games.”
The Raiders, Carr and Mariota will get an opportunity to show what they can scheme when Washington arrive in Sin City on Sunday.
Fangio: This is the best Broncos team since Super Bowl 50
The Broncos’ head coach is confident in his team overturning their losing streak vs. the Chiefs.
Broncos Country is on a high, and rightly so. It seems their head coach is also feeling pretty good ahead of Denver's Sunday night matchup against Kansas City.
The 6-5 Broncos have won two of their past three games and most recently took care of the Los Angeles Chargers in commanding fashion. It has been a rollercoaster season for the Broncos--losing Von Miller via trade, the highs of beating the Cowboys and Chargers, to the lows of losing to Las Vegas, Cleveland and Philadelphia particularly.
The truth is Sunday night could bring a euphoria not seen in Denver since Super Bowl 50, or it could quite equally be another false dawn. Broncos fans have seen plenty of those throughout the years and indeed this season too.
Fangio: This Is Our Best Team Since 2015
Fangio has been under immense pressure at various stages throughout the Broncos' 2021 campaign but his belief in the squad has never wavered. Now, with the biggest game of the past six seasons on the horizon, he believes they can break the Kansas City curse.
The Broncos have not beaten the 2020 Super Bowl champs in any of their past 11 games. Incredibly, the last Denver victory against the Chiefs was September 17, 2015 -- before their Super Bowl 50 success. Despite history well and truly residing with the Chiefs, Fangio is sure his team can overturn the tide.
“We’re better than the recent Broncos teams," Fangio told reporters, November 29. "Even the ones before I got here since the 2014 or ‘15 [season]—whenever it was. We’ve got a better team.”
Perhaps this team is better than its previous iterations, though the current Broncos are certainly in better shape than early on in the season. Much has to do with crafty work from general manager George Paton, bringing in the likes of linebacker Kenny Young from Los Angeles.
“He’s bought in from the first day I met him since he got here," Fangio said of the 26-year-old. "I mean I’m sure he was disappointed with the trade. It just upsets your daily lifestyle. You’ve got to move, this and that. I know he has a dog. He didn’t bring the dog with him, so he’s been lonely. He’s been good since he got here with trying to buy in and trying to do [well].”
Young has impressed since arriving in Denver, amassing 18 tackles, nine solo, across his four-game career in orange and blue. "He’s a very energetic guy," Fangio revealed. "He plays hard, plays fast. He likes football, likes contact, and he’s been a really good addition.”
Chiefs Are Back to Their Old Selves
Broncos fans may feel aggrieved for not getting a chance to play Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs earlier in the season during their apparent Super Bowl hangover. Now, they're a much different prospect, as the Broncos' head coach attested to.
“You’ve got to come out and play," Fangio said. "Obviously with who we’re playing this week, they know that. I didn’t get to see the Chiefs earlier in the season when they had some struggles, but they’re back to being the Chiefs again.
"It’s like you guys always ask me in May when the schedule comes out and you make these this, that, and the other. The answer I give every year [is] it depends when you play them, how they’re playing, who are they missing, who are you missing, and what kind of stretch are they going through? They’re back to being themselves now.”
If the Denver defense can replicate its suffocating performance against Los Angeles, then Mahomes and co. may return to the inconsistent Chiefs of September and October.
Broncos Country can only hope.
Mac Jones watched Jets film within hours of loss to Dolphins
In keeping with The Patriot Way, Jones moved ‘on to Cincinnati’. When quizzed, Jones admitted with a smile that he’d watched Jets film just hours after the Pats’ loss.
New England quarterback Mac Jones thoroughly impressed during his NFL bow despite the Patriots’ 17-16 loss to division rival Miami.
Jones’ laser-focus was on show after giving away a gifted football following his first touchdown pass as a professional. The Alabama product has been euolgised for his mental approach to football, with many already suggesting it fits seamlessly with The Patriot Way.
In keeping with that persona, Jones moved ‘on to Cincinnati’ almost immediately after the loss. Well not quite Cincy, truthfully attention was turned to the New York Jets — New England’s next opponent. When quizzed, Jones admitted with a smile he’d watched Jets film just hours after the Pats’ loss.
“I mean it’s not fun to lose, so just learning from what we could have done better is definitely just the only thing you can do really,” Jones said, via Mark Daniels of The Providence Journal.
“You can sit there and feel bad for yourself for a little bit, because that’s your human [nature], and that’s what you’re supposed to do, or you’re in the wrong profession. But you’ve just got to move on. So the 24-hour rule – just after 24 hours. Some people it’s less, but for me after that, just move on and play the next play, play the next game. You’re only as good as your last game so we lost and that’s what people remember, so we just got to move forward.”
Jones showed composure beyond his years, completing 29/39 passes for 281 yards and a touchdown. If it weren’t for a rare fumble from running back Damien Harris — New England’s second on the day — with 3:31 remaining, Jones could’ve started his career with a win.
“I think we’re moving in the right direction,” Jones said. “Just take it day-by-day and obviously there shouldn’t be any focus on the past. We just got to focus on what we need to get better at.
“That’s kind of for me. Just fundamentally what can I do each day, extra or whatever, just to improve so that when I get to the game we just play fast and we play better than we did last week.”
Jones and the Pats will look to improve upon their first hit-out when they take on division rivals, the New York Jets on Sunday.
Week 1 AFC players of the week announced
The 4-0 AFC West is well represented with Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes and Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby chosen.
After a pulsating start to the 2021 NFL season, three players were selected as a class above the rest in the American Football Conference.
The 4-0 AFC West is well represented with Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes and Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby chosen. Alongside, game-winning Cincinnati Bengals kicker Evan McPherson. Each were respectively voted the offensive, defensive and special teams players’ of the week.
Mahomes helped his Kansas City Chiefs to another miraculous hometown comeback, defeating the Cleveland Browns 33-29 despite trailing by two scores in the final quarter. The 25-year-old completed 27 of 36 pass attempts for 337 yards and three touchdowns. Tom Brady’s heir apparent threw no interceptions, amassing a 131.4 QBR. What’s more, Mahomes got himself a rushing touchdown too.
The Chiefs’ No.15 has now achieved six Offensive Player of the Week Awards, overtaking Joe Montana for the most by a Kansas City quaterback.
Mad Maxx Crosby was an integral component to the Raiders’ gutsy overtime victory against Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens. The Eastern Michigan alum had two sacks, six tackles, two sacks and two tackles for loss as the Raiders christened Allegiant Stadium.
Crosby has won the award twice previously, once as a defensive player (Week 11: 2019) and the other for his Special Teams work all the back in Week 17, 2020. In what is sure to be a humbling moment for the resilient 24-year-old, Crosby has now accrued more Player of the Week Awards than any Eastern Michigan player in history.
Fairytales can come true, right? If you’re a non-believer, just find rookie kicker Evan McPherson. The Alabama-born specialist slotted a 53-yard field goal in the fourth quarter and wasn’t close to being done there. McPherson followed it up with a 33-yard game-winning field goal as time expired in Cincinnati’s overtime victory over Minnesota.
The Bengals’ newest hero is only the second rookie kicker in NFL history to make a game-winning field goal with no time remaining in overtime. Miami’s Jason Sanders (October 14, 2018) is the co-owner of the prestigious record.
At 22 years and 53 days old, McPherson also became the youngest kicker in NFL history to kick a game-winner in overtime. Want another record?
McPherson is the first rookie kicker to win Special Teams Player of the Week since Indianapolis’ Rodrigo Blankenship in Week 11 of the 2020 season.
Jags’ rookie sensation Travis Etienne likely out for the season
The Clemson product suffered a mid-foot injury during the game, scans later revealing he suffered the dreaded Lisfranc injury, meaning Etienne will require surgery.
It couldn’t have gone much worse for Urban Meyer and his Jacksonville Jaguars last night.
After being comprehensively beaten by the New Orleans Saints, Jacksonville received news it feared most.
First-round running back Travis Etienne will likely miss for the entirety of his rookie season. The Clemson product suffered a mid-foot injury during the game, scans later revealing he suffered the dreaded Lisfranc injury, meaning Etienne will require surgery.
Jacksonville haven’t officially ruled Etienne out for the season but according to multiple reports, his rookie year will be over before it has even begun.
A lisfranc injury causes severe pain to the foot and ensures weight bearing is impossible. Patients are generally required to wear a cast or moon boot for 6-12 weeks post-surgery.
The Jaguars do have cover at running back with sophomore sensation James Robinson set to be utilized as a bell cow for Darrell Bevell’s inexperienced offense.
Jacksonville had a night to forget in New Orleans. Despite the closeness of the eventual scoreline, this was a mismatch across all three phases.
Trevor Lawrence and Gardner Minshew combined for 0 touchdowns and one interception, while the defense — which sorely missed star DE Josh Allen — failed to stop Jameis Winston through the air at any point.
Solace for Jacksonville came in the form of third-string quarterback C.J. Beathard who threw two late touchdowns in a relatively promising display.
Josh McDaniels reveals Patriots current starting QB
Is two better than one? That’s the question being posed around New England and their current quarterback situation.
Is two better than one? That’s the question being posed around New England and their current quarterback situation.
New England has a problem. Or maybe they don’t.
Both Cam Newton and Mac Jones looked like starters against a torrid Philadelphia Eagles defense, filled with backups on Thursday.
Jones completed 13/19 for 146 yards. Despite 0 touchdowns, he lead three scoring drives. Meanwhile his counterpart Newton threw a touchdown, finishing with 8-of-9 passes for 103 yards.
Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels spoke to local reporters on earlier today, asked who the Week 1 starter may be and when the decision would be finalized.
“I know this is going to sound silly, but I haven’t really worried about it,” McDaniels said, via NESN’s Ryan Hannable.
“I think that decision from Bill [Belichick] will be made when the time is right to make it. Cam certainly is the starter now, and he has done a good job. He has gone in there, he played well the other night. He’s practiced well. But, I know those guys are really competing hard and we’re giving them an opportunity to compete and play a lot of football.
“… I am very pleased with the effort that we’re putting in at the quarterback position, the improvements we’re making, and the way that we’re attempting to run the offense. Everything isn’t perfect. We still have a long way to go and things we can work on and improve and make better, but I think the desire to do it, the way we want to do it to the standard that we’re trying to hold them to I think is right where we want it to be.”
Despite Cam being the current starter, McDaniels gave no assurances it would be an irreversible decision.
“Honestly, our focus is on trying to get them to do everything that they are practicing or doing in the games to the best of their ability, and seeing them improve and focusing on the things where maybe this is an area we need to get better at.”
Could a dual QB1 situation come to fruition in Foxboro, though?
“I have not stopped for one second to think about how to utilize multiple people in the same game. I am encouraged by all our quarterbacks in terms of the way they are working, some of the things they have been able to do in our competitive practices, and some of the things they have done in the preseason games. I am encouraged by that,” McDaniels said.
“But, we have a lot of work ahead of us this week, a great opportunity to get better both on our own and against the Giants and then following it up in the game on Sunday night. I am excited to do that and that is where my focus is.”
New England take on their old foe New York at Metlife Stadium. The game kicks off at 6:00 PM EDT.
Raiders announce proof of vaccine policy for home games
The Las Vegas Raiders have set a contentious precedent, undoubtedly soon-to-be followed by other teams around the league.
The Las Vegas Raiders have set a contentious precedent, undoubtedly soon-to-be followed by other teams around the league.
In a statement released on their website last night, the Raiders informed fans they must show proof of a COVID-19 vaccination in order to attend any games during the 2021 NFL season.
Attendees can demonstrate their vaccination proof through CLEAR's free mobile app and Health Pass feature, ensuring fans can attend games without wearing a mask. There is no scenario in which an unvaccinated fan will be allowed into Allegiant Stadium this season.
t is the first vaccine/no mask policy implemented in the National Football League. Those planning to attend the Raiders first regular season home game against Baltimore on Monday Night Football (September 13) must be vaccinated to receive entry.
The policy is in accordance with the large events Emergency Directive from Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak.
"Health and safety has always been our number one priority," said Raiders owner Mark Davis. "After consultation with Governor Sisolak and other community leaders, this policy ensures that we will be able to operate at full capacity without masks for fully vaccinated fans for the entire season."
Fans will be able to receive vaccinations onsite at Allegiant Stadium prior to Raiders home games, though newly vaccinated fans must continue wearing their mask.
The Raiders announced a policy requiring all full-time employees on the business and football staffs of the organization to be vaccinated in May. Stadium management company ASM and stadium concessionaire Levy also have implemented mandatory vaccinations for all full-time staff at Allegiant Stadium.
Von Miller makes bold statement on Broncos season
The uncertainty under centre has been a popular topic for media and fans alike across Colorado but the Super Bowl 50 MVP isn’t phased.
Peyton Manning’s induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame was a nostalgic moment for Broncos Country, celebrating their Super Bowl winning favorite son. Yet it equally served as a reminder of how vastly different their present-day quarterback situation is.
Drew Lock and Teddy Bridgewater are still battling it out for the starting spot, despite Fangio naming Lock the starter for Saturday’s preseason opener at Minnesota. The uncertainty under centre has been a popular topic for media and fans alike across Colorado but one man who isn’t worried is the Super Bowl 50 MVP; Von Miller.
Speaking to Denver media after yesterday’s joint practice with the Vikings, Miller revealed how relaxed he is about the status of his signal-callers.
“To be honest—I keep it real with all you guys. I really don’t even think about it. I really don’t,” Miller said.
“Our offense is just so good. I say it all the time. We have Noah Fant, ‘Albert O’, Garett Bolles, Bobby Massie, Dalton Risner, Graham Glasgow. We have ‘Cush’ in the middle. We have Jerry Jeudy, Courtland Sutton, Tim Patrick, KJ Hamler, ‘Spence’, Melvin Gordon. I know these guys. I see these guys every day.”
Hilariously, Miller suggested he would be able to keep it together with the weaponry available on offense Perhaps Von Elway could come to life after all.
“Whatever quarterback we put out there—I can go out there and play quarterback to be honest. I can go out there and play quarterback and make it happen. Those two guys are way better than me. Whatever quarterback they feel like going with, that’ll be the starter, and we have a great one on the bench.”
Before leaving the podium, Miller sent a vote of confidence to teammates and fans alike, giving hope of what may come this season.
“I think this is our year to do it. This is the best team we’ve been able to field for at least six or seven years. I’m excited about this team and I’m ready to go. Whatever quarterback we get, it’ll be good for me.”
Six or seven years ago? Remember what happened all those years ago, Broncos Country? Let me refresh your memory.
Von also had great things to say about his running mate Bradley Chubb, who managed 7.5 sacks last season despite his absence.
“Bradley—he’s just a different animal. He’s just a different beast. [He’s] so motivated and so driven,” Miller said.
“He’s inspired to be great in this league. I really enjoy playing with Bradley. He’s fighting back through injury and he’s doing everything he could possibly do to be on the football field. He is on the football field and he does a great job.
“His workload is increasing every day. It’ll be great to be back on the field with Bradley. He’s going to be good—100 percent. We don’t have to worry about Bradley Chubb.”
With Miller and Chubb lined up opposite each other again, alongside the offseason additions of Patrick Sutain III, Kyle Fuller and Ronald Darby, the Broncos defense should be able to uphold their end of the bargain.
If Drew Lock or Teddy Bridgewater can steady the ship, this Denver team has every chance to be as good as the Vonster suggests.
Broncos name Drew Lock & Teddy bridgewater co-starters
Broncos head coach Vic Fangio has given no quarter on who his team’s #1 signal-caller will be.
It’s a mile-high shootout in Denver. Broncos head coach Vic Fangio has given no quarter on who his team’s #1 signal-caller will be.
The three-time Super Bowl champs brought in Teddy Bridgewater this offseason to compete with Lock, and he’s doing exactly that.
Lock meanwhile has shown greater poise in camp thus far, despite a league-low completion percentage among eligible QBs last season. Though his arm strength and deep ball ability is unquestioned.
If he can clean up his decision-making, Lock has far greater upside to help the Broncos offense compete with division rivals, Los Angeles and Kansas City.
Bridgewater may not have the explosiveness of Lock but he provides the Broncos with a safety blanket that Lock’s relative inexperience may not afford him.
Whichever option Fangio decides to go with, the Broncos need their offense to hold up its end of the bargain if they want to be in with a shout of the AFC playoffs come January.
Deshaun Watson expected not to travel with Texans for opening preseason game
The battle between Deshaun Watson and the Texans rumbles on.
The battle between Deshaun Watson and the Texans rumbles on.
Houston’s No. 4 will not travel to Green Bay for their preseason opener, if their GM Nick Caseiro is to be believed.
Speaking to SportsRadio 610 in Houston, the former Patriots employee said “I don’t expect him to play.”
Speculation surrounds Watson’s immediate playing future — both with the Texans, and in the league more broadly — is under a cloud due to his current legal situation.
Caseiro added “there’s been a lot of speculation” and “a lot of moving parts” regarding the Clemson product. What is clear, in a rather murky situation, is Watson doesn’t want to be in Houston.
Whatever happens with the legal side of things it seems
Bill Belichick reveals the best QB he’s ever faced
The defensive mastermind has seen his fair share of quarterbacks over the years, but he holds one in the highest esteem, above all else. Spoiler: It’s not Tom Brady.
After 46 years in the league and six Super Bowl wins as a head coach, there are none better qualified than Bill Belichick to talk about quarterback play.
The defensive mastermind has seen his fair share of quarterbacks over the years, but he holds one in the highest esteem, above all else. Spoiler: It’s not Tom Brady.
Belichick has never faced Brady, so on a technicality, he’s disqualified from this conversation. Though it would be incredible viewing if he was asked this same question after TB12 and the Bucs visit Foxboro on October 3.
Anyway, back to Belichick. Here he is discussing the greatest signal-caller he’s ever faced and there’s no surprise he hails from football’s finest family. Despite his record against New England, it isn’t Eli, rather his brother and soon-to-be Hall of Famer, Peyton.
“He is definitely the best quarterback I’ve coached against,” Belichick told Ben Volin of The Boston Globe.
“There have been quarterbacks who called their own plays, but it was nowhere near the same as what he did. He basically called every play by adjusting and/or changing the play once he saw what the defense was doing,” he said.
“He (Peyton) excelled at using the cadence and recognizing blitzes, and more than any one single offensive player, he forced us to change and adapt defensive game plans.”
While in a magnanimous mood Belichick praised Manning’s fellow class-men; former NFL coaches and friends Jimmy Johnson and Bill Cowher.
“Jimmy’s command of personnel, coaching, trades, and the draft made him one of the all-time master team builders,” Belichick said.
“He took a team from 1-15 and turned it into a three-time Super Bowl champion. Jimmy’s defenses — his 4-3 split safety scheme — were as good as I have coached against. Jimmy is a great friend who has given me a lot of good advice throughout much of my career.”
Cowher — who won Super Bowl XL with Pittsburgh — was also lavished by Belichick.
”Bill had a tremendous NFL career that encompassed a lot — player, assistant coach, coordinator, and head coach,” Belichick said.
“Schematically his teams were one of the very best over the course of two decades. Our teams had some fiercely competitive battles that made me a better coach. I admire and learned from his complete mastery of coaching essentials — motivation, strategy, fundamentals, and physical play. Bill and I have been close friends for 35 years and I couldn’t be happier for him.”
Gerald McCoy working out with Las Vegas Raiders
All the way back in April, McCoy reiterated he has a lot left in the tank and wasn’t anywhere near hanging up the cleats.
Stalwart defensive tackle Gerald McCoy has enjoyed an incredible career in the NFL amassing six Pro Bowl appearances, though he isn’t likely to be done yet.
ESPN’s NFL insider FIeld Yates has reported McCoy is out in the desert, visiting - and working out - with Jon Gruden’s Las Vegas Raiders.
All the way back in April, McCoy reiterated he has a lot left in the tank and wasn’t anywhere near hanging up the cleats.
“For me, I just love this game so much, it’s still fun to me,” McCoy told Rick Stroud of The Tampa Tay Times.
“I love competing. I just know what my mindset was going into last season and I don’t want an injury or what the NFL deems ‘age’ to be a derailment and finish like that.” he said.
“I know I can still be an asset to a team, whether it’s sparingly, as a starter, in the locker room, whatever it is. In training camp, a mentor to the young kids. I just know I have so much more to give this game, even if for a short period of time.”
McCoy, an Oklahoma native, signed with his childhood — and America’s — team; Dallas Cowboys. A season-ending quad injury ruined his dream of playing on the big star, witht he Cowboys cutting him in August 2020.
Big Gerald faces stiff competition at defensive tackle with the Raiders having six on their roster, including Jonathan Hankins and former #3 pick Solomon Thomas.
Philip Rivers reveals he’s open to an NFL Comeback
Despite riding off into the Alabaman sunset after his only season with Indianapolis, Philip Rivers revealed the door is open to come on back in search of another seat at the NFL table.
Despite riding off into the Alabaman sunset after his only season with Indianapolis, Philip Rivers revealed the door is open to come on back in search of another seat at the NFL table.
Currently, Rivers is coaching high school football in Alabama, taking the reigns at St. Michael Catholic High School. Despite loving his time working with the youth in his native state, Rivers revealed the fire hasn’t burnt out.
Jogging out through the tunnel seems more possible than it has at any moment since he walked off the field after Indy’s playoff loss in Buffalo back in January 2021.
“I’m just going to stay ready,” Rivers told Sam Farmer of the Los Angeles Times.
“I want to make sure I’m very clear: I’m not predicting I will play in December or January, for that matter. One, you’ve got to have somebody who wants you, and two, it’s got to be right.
“But I have not completely ruled that out.”
Right now though Rivers is contented in Alabama and is far from in shape, and in turn, a while away from a return to the NFL.
“I’m not quite there,” the 39-year-old said.
“I’m getting back there. I wouldn’t have made weight if I had to report last week, that’s for sure. But I am getting back into the lifting and running, and shoot, I occasionally throw a ball around out here in this heat. It’s not too hard to get a good lather going.”
It would be romantic to see Rivers back slinging it with a team in with a shot of the Lombardi trophy but whether that occurs won’t just depend on Rivers’ health, but that of a team’s starting quarterback.
Zach Wilson: Aaron Rodgers is my guy but Brady is the GOAT
Jets fans will be praying Zach Wilson shares more than a birthday with the GOAT once his NFL career gets underway.
Jets fans will be praying Zach Wilson shares more than a birthday with the GOAT once his NFL career gets underway.
Both Wilson and Brady blow out the candles tomorrow (August 3), turning 22 and 44 respectively. The BYU product admitted it’s a “pretty dang cool” coincidence before going on to reveal his admiration for the seven-time Super Bowl winner.
“I’d say one of the craziest parts is I think I was one in his first year in the NFL,” Wilson told New York media, via Al Iannazzone of Newsday. “It’s crazy to think about it.”
“Brady, in my opinion, is the greatest of all time,” Wilson said. “I don’t think you can argue that. Wherever he’s at, he’s winning.”
Despite rating the frenzied work-ethic and accomplishments of TB12, Wilson has long admired an NFC quarterback, a man who nearly left Titletown this offseason, none other than Aaron Rodgers.
“I’ve always been a Rodgers guy because of the flashiness, but the thing that’s important in the game is winning,” Wilson said.
“This is a team sport, it’s all about winning. It’s not about how cool a throw looks or anything like that. He’s definitely been a favorite to watch growing up. That’s just because of the way he does it, the way he’s found a system, a process that works for him as far as his offseason conditioning.”
The Jets will be hoping Wilson’s study of Rodgers and Brady translates into his game during his rookie year, as he looks to breathe life into a rejuvenated Jets lineup alongside first-time head coach Robert Saleh.
Important dates for the 2021 NFL season
The NFL season begins with the Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers hosting America’s Team; the Dallas Cowboys on September 9. Though there are many defining occasions throughout the league before and after the battle of Brady and Prescott.
The NFL season begins with the Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers hosting America’s Team; the Dallas Cowboys on September 9. Though there are many defining occasions throughout the league before and after the battle of Brady and Prescott.
August
August 5 - Hall of Fame Game (Dallas Cowboys vs Pittsburgh Steelers)
August 12 - Start of Preseason Week 1
August 31 (4pm ET) - Rosters must be reduced to max. of 53 players on the Active/Inactive List.
September
September 5 - Final day of preseason training camp
September 9 - Season opener (Bucs vs Cowboys)
September 12 & 13 - Week 1 of NFL regular season
October
October 10 - NFL London Series, New York Jets vs. Atlanta Falcons @ Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
October 17 -NFL London Series, Miami Dolphins vs. Jacksonville Jaguars @ Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
November
November 2 - Trade period ends for 2021
January
January 8 & 9 - Final week of the regular season (Week 18)
January 15 & 16 - Wild Card Playoff Games
January 22 - NFLPA Collegiate Bowl
January 22 & 23 - Divisional Playoff Games
January 28 - HBCU Combine
January 30 - AFC & NFC Championship Games
February
February 5 - Senior Bowl
February 6 - NFL Pro Bowl
February 13 - Super Bowl LVI
February 19 - HBCU Legacy Bowl
March
March 1-7 - NFL Scouting Combine
March 8- Franchise tag designation deadline
March 16 (4pm ET) - 2022 Free Agency begin
April 28-30 - 2022 NFL Draft
Drew Brees talks Jameis, Taysom & the QB who has caught his eye
Drew Brees believes the quarterback battle down in New Orleans is unlikely to end anytime soon.
Drew Brees believes the quarterback battle down in New Orleans is unlikely to end anytime soon. The Saints GOAT thinks both Jameis Winston and Taysom Hill will spend time under centre in New Orleans’ first season without Brees in 16 years.
“Both guys have such a love for the game … and you can see it in the way they play. Taysom has an infectious love for the game,” Brees told Mike Tirico in Football Morning in America.
“There is not a guy who is more respected for that and for what he brings to the team. Jameis was such a joy to be around. He also loves the game and loves to work at it. You can tell that football consumes his thoughts.
“He wants to be a great player and continue to improve. Whatever happens, in terms of whoever is the starter, I do think there is a scenario where both of them are playing. If Jameis is the starter I think Taysom is seeing a lot of action at quarterback, maybe even more-so than he did with me.”
As for withdrawals from his time in the New Orleans spotlight, Brees hasn’t come across any yet.
“I have been preparing for the next chapter, I’m excited about it. There is a feeling of gratitude and appreciation for all that the game gave me,” he said.
“I still have a chance (at NBC) to be connected with the game and stay involved, but I am excited to be able to pursue some other passions that I haven’t been able to up to this point.”
Brees is preparing to play a large part in NBC’s football coverage this season, signing on as a studio analyst for Football Night in America. A guy you’ll hear him speak about and this season is Justin Herbert; the Chargers quarterback who has caught his eye more than any other youngster in the league.
“I don’t think I’ve seen an athlete quite like him. We played them last year, and I was impressed,” Brees revealed.
“Then I saw him at mini-camp in OTAs and was amazed at how big and strong he is. His forearms and hands look like he has been digging fence-post holes his entire life. He is good, smart and has those leadership qualities. You talk about building an offense around a guy, he can be a 15-year franchise guy.”
Brees will also be instrumental in NBC’s coverage of Notre Dame, in addition to the Olympics and of course, Super Bowl LVI.
NFL announces Preseason TV schedule
An enormous 23 games will be shown on the league’s broadcast channel…this includes to quadruple-headers in Weeks 1 and 2 before two doses of triple-headers in Week 3.
The NFL announced this week there will be a record number of preseason games will be shown on NFL Network.
Let’s hope we’ll see more of this!
Importantly, all preseason games will be shown on NFL GamePass, which is fantastic news for international and American fans alike.
An enormous 23 games will be shown on the league’s broadcast channel will show eight games through Weeks 1-2 before a final seven during the third and final week of preseason.
This includes to quadruple-headers in Weeks 1 and 2 before two doses of triple-headers in Week 3.
The Football Team kick off NFL Network’s coverage on August 12 at New England, where we should get our first official look at Mac Jones in a Patriots uniform.
Trevor Lawrence is likely to hit your screens on August 14 as Urban Meyer and the Jags host AFC rivals, Cleveland.
Media and fans alike will be hoping to get a glimpse of Jordan Love too, which may come as early as Week 2 (August 21) at home to Zac Wilson and Gang Green.
Below is a full list of the games to air on NFL Network across the preseason:
Week 1
Thursday, August 12
7:30 PM ET – Washington Football Team vs. New England Patriots
Friday, August 13
7:00 PM ET – Buffalo Bills vs. Detroit Lions
10:00 PM ET – Dallas Cowboys vs. Arizona Cardinals
Saturday, August 14
1:00 PM ET – Miami Dolphins vs. Chicago Bears
4:00 PM ET – Denver Broncos vs. Minnesota Vikings
7:00 PM ET – Cleveland Browns vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
10:00 PM ET – Los Angeles Chargers vs. Los Angeles Rams
Sunday, August 15
1:00 PM ET – Carolina Panthers vs. Indianapolis Colts
Week 2
Thursday, August 19
7:30 PM ET – New England Patriots vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Friday, August 20
8:00 PM ET – Cincinnati Bengals vs. Washington Football Team
Saturday, August 21
1:00 PM ET – Buffalo Bills vs. Chicago Bears
4:25 PM ET – New York Jets vs. Green Bay Packers
7:30 PM ET – Detroit Lions vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
10:00 PM ET – Las Vegas Raiders vs. Los Angeles Rams
Sunday, August 22
1:00 PM ET – New York Giants vs. Cleveland Browns
7:30 PM ET – San Francisco 49ers vs. Los Angeles Chargers
Week 3
Friday, August 27
8:00 PM ET – Minnesota Vikings vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Saturday, August 28
1:00 PM ET – Green Bay Packers vs. Buffalo Bills
7:00 PM ET – Chicago Bears vs. Tennessee Titans
10:00 PM ET – Los Angeles Chargers vs. Seattle Seahawks
Sunday, August 29
1:00 PM ET – Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Dallas Cowboys
4:00 PM ET – Las Vegas Raiders vs. San Francisco 49ers
6:00 PM ET – New England Patriots vs. New York Giants
For American fans — NFL Network will blackout live games shown concurrently in local markets.