Rich Scangarello C, Unsigned Free Agent NBC Sports' John Clark reports the Eagles won't retain Senior offensive assistant Rich Scangarello.
Coach Doug Pederson called his own plays throughout the year but Scangarello was still brought on help "marry" Philadelphia's run game with the team's play under center â an experiment that clearly failed long-term. Marty Mornhinweg is also reportedly following DC Jim Schwartz out the door immediately. The Eagles' overhaul around Pederson also includes wide receivers coach Aaron Moorehead, pass game analyst Andrew Breiner and defensive backs coach Marquand Manuel. Source: John Clark on Twitter Jan 7, 2021, 12:51 PM ET
Rock Ya-Sin DB, Indianapolis Colts Colts CB Rock Ya-Sin (concussion) is out for Saturday against the Bills.
Indianapolis usually plays a lot of Cover 2 zone defense so Ya-Sin's absence probably won't benefit a particular Buffalo receiver. It's all around bad new for a Colts' defense that's going to need all hands on deck against Josh Allen's juggernaut offense. The matchup for Allen, Stefon Diggs, John Brown, and the rest of the Bills pass catchers just got that much better. Source: Mike Wells on Twitter Jan 7, 2021, 2:17 PM ET
Ronnie Harrison DB, Cleveland Browns Browns placed S Ronnie Harrison on the reserve/COVID-19 list.
This could explain why the team canceled practice Thursday. Harrison returned for the team's Week 17 win over the Steelers after an extended absence after spraining his shoulder, making six tackles in the victory. Already without key players like LG Joel Bitonio and OL Nick Harris, the Browns will be without Harrison for their playoff game against the Steelers. Things could get ugly for the Browns on Sunday. Source: Mary Kay Cabot on Twitter Jan 7, 2021, 2:34 PM ET
DeForest Buckner DL, Indianapolis Colts Colts DT DeForest Buckner (ankle) is questionable for the Wild Card Round against the Bills.
Despite the questionable tag, Buckner is expected to go against the Bills. Speaking Thursday, coach Frank Reich said Buckner's ankle gets "re-aggravated every game day," but that he has also improved with time. The Colts won't have much shot at springing the upset if Buckner isn't operating at near his normal level of effectiveness. Source: Jim Ayello on Twitter Jan 7, 2021, 2:22 PM ET
Report: Deshaun Watson âextremely unhappyâ with Texans Posted by Charean Williams on January 7, 2021, 7:39 PM EST USA TODAY Sports
A little over an hour after a report surfaced that the Texans were hiring Nick Caserio as General Manager on Tuesday, Deshaun Watson tweeted â and later deleted â what seemed his displeasure with the choice.
âsome things never changeâŠ.â Watson wrote.
The quarterback is âextremely unhappy with the organizationâ and not answering calls from the Texansâ front office, Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reports.
âThis has nothing to do with the actual hire of GM Nick Caserio. It has to do with the process,â Rapoport continued.
Owner Cal McNair promised Watson he would be involved in the process of hiring a new G.M. and a new head coach to replace Bill OâBrien, who held both titles before being fired in October. The Texans did not consult Watson for his feedback before hiring Caserio, per Rapoport.
PFTâs Mike Florio reported earlier in the day that rumors are circulating that Watson has broached with teammates the possibility of requesting a trade. Later in the day, a report followed out of Houston that the Texans wonât trade Watson if he asks for it.
The sides obviously are at odds, leaving the Texans in a position to make sure Watson is on board with the hiring of a new head coach. Unless, of course, he already is past of the point of making up and desires to move on. Then what?
Report: Deshaun Watson advocated for Eric Bieniemy as head coach Posted by Mike Florio on January 7, 2021, 8:42 PM EST Divisional Round - Houston Texans v Kansas City Chiefs Getty Images
And now we know why Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson is telling teammates he may ask for a trade.
A flood of reports has emerged on Thursday night, as reported have chased the story teed up earlier today by our item raising the question of whether Watson wants out. Itâs now clear that he does.
Albert Breer of SI.com supplies another reason for Watsonâs consternation. Per Breer, Watson advocated for the Texans to hire Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy. The Texans, however, became the only team with a vacancy to not even interview Bieniemy.
Breer explains that Mahomes âput in a strong wordâ for Bieniemy, which prompted Watson to push for Bieniemy. The Texans, who had said theyâd consult with Watson, ignored Watsonâs suggestion. And that undoubtedly has contributed to the consternation and frustration that Watson is currently feeling.
Although the Texans claim they wonât trade Watson, they may have no choice. Especially once they start getting offers that they may not be able to refuse. Now that the cat is out of the bag, itâs inevitable that new G.M. Nick Caserioâs phone will be ringing. Share this:
Report: Deshaun Watson advocated for Eric Bieniemy as head coach Posted by Mike Florio on January 7, 2021, 8:42 PM EST Divisional Round - Houston Texans v Kansas City Chiefs Getty Images
And now we know why Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson is telling teammates he may ask for a trade.
A flood of reports has emerged on Thursday night, as reported have chased the story teed up earlier today by our item raising the question of whether Watson wants out. Itâs now clear that he does.
Albert Breer of SI.com supplies another reason for Watsonâs consternation. Per Breer, Watson advocated for the Texans to hire Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy. The Texans, however, became the only team with a vacancy to not even interview Bieniemy.
Breer explains that Mahomes âput in a strong wordâ for Bieniemy, which prompted Watson to push for Bieniemy. The Texans, who had said theyâd consult with Watson, ignored Watsonâs suggestion. And that undoubtedly has contributed to the consternation and frustration that Watson is currently feeling.
Although the Texans claim they wonât trade Watson, they may have no choice. Especially once they start getting offers that they may not be able to refuse. Now that the cat is out of the bag, itâs inevitable that new G.M. Nick Caserioâs phone will be ringing. Share this:
Free Watson!!!!
(I'm not a expert but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night!) SleeperU Forum Moderator USA
Report: Deshaun Watson advocated for Eric Bieniemy as head coach Posted by Mike Florio on January 7, 2021, 8:42 PM EST Divisional Round - Houston Texans v Kansas City Chiefs Getty Images
And now we know why Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson is telling teammates he may ask for a trade.
A flood of reports has emerged on Thursday night, as reported have chased the story teed up earlier today by our item raising the question of whether Watson wants out. Itâs now clear that he does.
Albert Breer of SI.com supplies another reason for Watsonâs consternation. Per Breer, Watson advocated for the Texans to hire Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy. The Texans, however, became the only team with a vacancy to not even interview Bieniemy.
Breer explains that Mahomes âput in a strong wordâ for Bieniemy, which prompted Watson to push for Bieniemy. The Texans, who had said theyâd consult with Watson, ignored Watsonâs suggestion. And that undoubtedly has contributed to the consternation and frustration that Watson is currently feeling.
Although the Texans claim they wonât trade Watson, they may have no choice. Especially once they start getting offers that they may not be able to refuse. Now that the cat is out of the bag, itâs inevitable that new G.M. Nick Caserioâs phone will be ringing. Share this:
Report: Deshaun Watson advocated for Eric Bieniemy as head coach Posted by Mike Florio on January 7, 2021, 8:42 PM EST Divisional Round - Houston Texans v Kansas City Chiefs Getty Images
And now we know why Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson is telling teammates he may ask for a trade.
A flood of reports has emerged on Thursday night, as reported have chased the story teed up earlier today by our item raising the question of whether Watson wants out. Itâs now clear that he does.
Albert Breer of SI.com supplies another reason for Watsonâs consternation. Per Breer, Watson advocated for the Texans to hire Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy. The Texans, however, became the only team with a vacancy to not even interview Bieniemy.
Breer explains that Mahomes âput in a strong wordâ for Bieniemy, which prompted Watson to push for Bieniemy. The Texans, who had said theyâd consult with Watson, ignored Watsonâs suggestion. And that undoubtedly has contributed to the consternation and frustration that Watson is currently feeling.
Although the Texans claim they wonât trade Watson, they may have no choice. Especially once they start getting offers that they may not be able to refuse. Now that the cat is out of the bag, itâs inevitable that new G.M. Nick Caserioâs phone will be ringing. Share this:
Free Watson!!!!
REUNITE HOPKINS AND WATSON!!!!!
And thatâs what they call a pipe dream... not happening with Murray in AZ. Theyâd have to trade DHop back to Houston.
Trey Hendrickson out for Saints on Sunday Posted by Josh Alper on January 8, 2021, 3:54 PM EST NFL: NOV 01 Saints at Bears Getty Images
The Saints will be without their sack leader against the Bears on Sunday.
Defensive end Trey Hendrickson has been ruled out of the game. Hendrickson has a neck injury and went from limited participation on Wednesday to being out of practice Thursday. He remained on the sideline for Fridayâs session.
Hendrickson also missed Week 16 because of his neck, but returned to play last weekend and had a sack. He finished the year with 13.5 sacks and 25 quarterback hits.
Guard Nick Easton is the only other player with an injury designation. He will not play because of a concussion.
Wide receiver Michael Thomas remains on injured reserve, so he is not on the teamâs injury report. He must be activated by Saturday afternoon in order to play in the game.
Mike Nolan DL, Unsigned Free Agent Cowboys fired DC Mike Nolan.
This was expected following the worst defensive performance in the franchise's 61-year history. A non-inspiring name even at the time of his hire, Nolan tried installing an extremely technical scheme in a year with no offseason reps and preseason games, taking a struggling defense and arguably making it worse. The Cowboys finished 2020 having allowed a franchise-record 473 points including three first-half touchdowns to the Giants in Week 17's must-win finale. Dallas was also road grated for 164.8 rushing yards per game, the second-worst mark in franchise history behind only the inaugural 1960 defense (186.8 yards). The organization will clearly look to rehaul that unit this offseason. Related:
Dallas Cowboys
Source: Jay Glazer on Twitter Jan 8, 2021, 4:25 PM ET
Cowboys hire Dan Quinn as defensive coordinator Posted by Michael David Smith on January 11, 2021, 6:13 PM EST Chicago Bears v Atlanta Falcons Getty Images
The Cowboys have their new defensive coordinator.
Dan Quinn has been hired as Dallasâs most important assistant coach, according to multiple reports.
Quinn replaces Mike Nolan, who was fired after the Cowboysâ defense turned in a disappointing 2020 season.
The 50-year-old Quinn was fired as Falcons head coach during the 2020 season. He had been in Atlanta since 2015, when he was hired away from Seattle, where he coordinated the Super Bowl-winning Seahawks Defense. The Cowboys will now hope he can have that kind of success in Dallas as well.
John Schneider G, Seattle Seahawks Seahawks signed GM John Schneider to a five-year extension through 2027.
The extension takes Schneider through the 2027 draft. It is likely a reaction to the Lions seeking permission to interview Pete Carroll's longtime personnel boss. It is an interesting time for a new contract, as the Seahawks' roster isn't exactly in great shape despite this year's 12-4 campaign. This is the lowest they have been on defensive talent during Schneider's tenure, while the offensive line fell apart in the Wild Card Round. Working in tandem, Schneider and Carroll have botched their first selection, whether it is Round 1 or 2, over and over again. Their extremely aggressive pursuit of Jamal Adams left them without first-round picks in 2020 and 2021. You almost never see that level of draft capital thrown at a safety. Schneider and Carroll, of course, have also come away with lots of brilliant Day 2 and 3 hits, most recently DK Metcalf. They still have to stop relying on Russell Wilson for everything and fill out a stronger overall roster. Jan 12, 2021, 1:45 PM ET
Eric Bieniemy C, Kansas City Chiefs The Texans have requested permission to interview Chiefs OC Eric Bieniemy for their head-coaching vacancy.
The Texans have supposedly "essentially started their search over" since hiring GM Nick Caserio. Franchise player Deshaun Watson was furious when the team did not even reach out to Bieniemy, who is arguably the strongest candidate available this winter. Of course, this could amount to little more than an empty gesture, as the Texans missed the initial window to interview Bieniemy. Now they can't talk to him until after the Super Bowl or following the Chiefs' elimination. The Chiefs, of course, are in commanding position to reach another title game. Bieniemy probably doesn't have the luxury of keeping this opportunity open, as it would be extremely rare for a departing Super Bowl coordinator not to have his next job unofficially lined up before the big game. Related:
Houston Texans
Source: Ian Rapoport on Twitter Jan 12, 2021, 1:45 PM ET
Gus Bradley DC, Las Vegas Raiders Raiders hired Gus Bradley as defensive coordinator.
Bradley was an assistant coach under Jon Gruden in Tampa Bay from 2006-08 before becoming a defensive coordinator with the Seahawks. Bradley then served as head coach of the Jaguars from 2013-16. Gruden said Monday that the Raiders want to keep their 4-3 defensive scheme, which Bradley uses. The Raiders fired former defensive coordinator Paul Guenther after late-game meltdowns from a defense that allowed 29.9 points per game, the third most in the league. The Raiders had the third lowest sack rate in the NFL this season. Bradley has work to do. Related:
Los Angeles Chargers
Source: Vincent Bonsignore on Twitter Jan 12, 2021, 12:41 PM ET
Robert Jackson DB, Cleveland Browns Browns placed CB Robert Jackson on injured reserve with a hamstring injury.
You've probably never heard of Jackson, but his loss is going to be a problem. He was an every-snap player the past two weeks for Cleveland's injury-depleted secondary. The Browns desperately need Denzel Ward (COVID-19) and nickel corner Kevin Johnson (COVID-19) back for the Divisional Round. Jan 12, 2021, 2:00 PM ET
Michael Dunn T, Cleveland Browns Browns placed LG Michael Dunn on injured reserve with a calf injury.
Dunn was filling in for COVID-positive Joel Bitonio in the Wild Card Round. Dunn's injury forced the Browns to turn to a player Baker Mayfield had literally never met (Blake Hance). Bitonio should be back for the Browns' Divisional Round showdown with the Chiefs. Dunn would be eligible to return for a theoretical Super Bowl appearance. Jan 12, 2021, 1:20 PM ET
Kevin Minter LB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers Buccaneers placed LB Kevin Minter on the reserve/COVID list.
Minter started in Tampa Bay's last two games, most recently collecting six tackles and one pass defended in Saturday's Wild Card win against Washington. Devin White, who was activated from the COVID list Monday, is expected to return to the team's starting lineup in the Divisional Round against the Saints. Source: Pro Football Talk on Twitter Jan 11, 2021, 3:29 PM ET
Alex Cappa G, Tampa Bay Buccaneers Buccaneers coach Bruce Arians said RG Alex Cappa will miss the rest of the postseason with a fractured ankle.
He'll be replaced by Aaron Stinnie for the Bucs' remaining games. It's clearly an impactful loss since Cappa hadn't permitted a single sack on 1,070 snaps across Tampa Bay's offensive line all year. Note that the Saints, the Bucs' Divisional opponent, finished with the league's sixth-highest pressure rate this season. Source: Sara Walsh on Twitter Jan 11, 2021, 3:10 PM ET
Pagano coached in the NFL for 18 years -- six as a head coach for the Colts (53-43), three as a defensive coordinator between the Bears and Ravens, and the rest as a secondary coach. Over the last two seasons as Chicago's defensive coordinator, the Bears finished inside the top-10 in expected points added (EPA) each year, although that can partially be attributed to their talent. With Pagano heading into retirement, the Bears will be forced into hiring their third defensive coordinator within four seasons. His loss will be felt, but he and Mitchell Trubisky will be viewed as scapegoats for coach Matt Nagy and GM Ryan Pace, who reportedly will return for the 2021 season. Related:
Chicago Bears
Source: Kevin Fishbain on Twitter Jan 12, 2021, 7:30 PM ET
Brian Schottenheimer C, Unsigned Free Agent Seahawks fired OC Brian Schottenheimer.
Schottenheimer and the Seahawks "parted ways" citing "philosophical differences" as the reason why. The Seahawks offense has been good but inconsistent since Schottenheimer was hired in 2018. Critics believed Seattle's balanced approach on offense was to blame, sparking the #LetRussCook movement. Russell Wilson was pacing for an MVP season through the first eight weeks of 2020 while ranking top-five in neutral pass rate, but the offense began running more on early downs and Wilson struggled making easy throws underneath. That set up a total stinker against the Rams' Cover 2 defense in the Wild Card round. Ultimately, the Seahawks ranked 6th, 9th, and 8th in points under Schotty's watch. He'll likely be invited for offensive coordinator interviews immediately. Related:
Seattle Seahawks
Source: Seahawks on Twitter Jan 12, 2021, 6:22 PM ET
Joe Whitt CS, Dallas Cowboys Cowboys hired Joe Whitt as secondary coach.
Whitt interviewed for the defensive coordinator job, which went to ex-Falcons HC Dan Quinn. He'll follow Quinn to Dallas for a lateral move as secondary coach and defensive pass game coordinator. Whitt was also on Mike McCarthyâs coaching staff with the Packers from 2008-2018. Source: NFL Network Jan 13, 2021, 9:27 AM ET
Broncos hire George Paton as new general manager Posted by Michael David Smith on January 13, 2021, 12:41 PM EST Denver Broncos v Baltimore Ravens Getty Images
The Broncos have found their new GM.
George Paton and the Broncos have agreed to terms on a deal that makes Paton Denverâs general manager, according to multiple reports.
The Denver GM job opened up when John Elway stepped aside from day-to-day personnel work, although Elway will continue to oversee the Broncosâ front office.
Paton has spent 14 seasons with the Vikings, working as assistant general manager under Rick Spielman. He has also spent time with the Bears and Dolphins. Now Paton will get to work on turning around a Denver team that hasnât been to the playoffs since Peyton Manning retired. Share this:
Urban Meyer C, Jacksonville Jaguars Jaguars hired Urban Meyer as head coach.
Negotiations have reportedly been ongoing for at least a month as Meyer has made it a point to upgrade Jacksonville's practice facility â well short of the facilities he had during his tenure at Ohio State â and land multi-year deals for the assistant coaches he has in mind. Owner Shad Khan interviewed a handful of other candidates but clearly honed in on Meyer from the very beginning. Some headlines will attempt to coax readers into believing Meyer will link up with Buckeyes QB Justin Fields with the No. 1 overall pick, but that spot is reserved for franchise cornerstone Trevor Lawrence. The organization is at least willing to allow Meyer to rebuild on his terms, granting him a longer leash than most for a franchise that has won just 44 games in the last 10 years. Source: Jeremy Fowler on Twitter Jan 14, 2021, 9:35 AM ET
Brad Holmes GM, Detroit Lions Lions hired former Rams director of college scouting Brad Holmes as general manager.
Detroit had also interviewed Colts assistant GM Ed Dodds before moving forward with the first (and primary) candidate on its list. The Rams will also become the first team to receive two third-round compensatory draft picks for Bradley as part of the NFL's new hiring initiatives. The two sides are reportedly finalizing a five-year deal after Holmes had been in his former position in Los Angeles for eight seasons. Holmes was also a finalist for Atlanta's GM role, setting the stage for Saints assistant GM Terry Fontenot to land there once New Orleans' postseason run comes to an end. Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter Jan 14, 2021, 11:17 AM ET
Randy Fichtner C, Unsigned Free Agent Steelers won't re-sign OC Randy Fichtner.
Pittsburgh will allow Fichtner's contract to expire ahead of the new league year and won't bring him back. This was an expected move after the Steelers' only success on offense in the last two months was the one half Ben Roethlisberger called his own plays following the intermission in Week 16 against the Colts. With JuJu Smith-Schuster's and James Conner's contracts also running their course (and Roethlisberger having only one year left on his deal), it's possible the team's offense looks entirely different in Week 1 of the 2021 season. Fichtner should still have no issues finding another job as a QBs or assistant coach on the market. Source: Tom Pelissero on Twitter Jan 14, 2021, 10:26 AM ET
Randy Fichtner C, Unsigned Free Agent Steelers won't re-sign OC Randy Fichtner.
Pittsburgh will allow Fichtner's contract to expire ahead of the new league year and won't bring him back. This was an expected move after the Steelers' only success on offense in the last two months was the one half Ben Roethlisberger called his own plays following the intermission in Week 16 against the Colts. With JuJu Smith-Schuster's and James Conner's contracts also running their course (and Roethlisberger having only one year left on his deal), it's possible the team's offense looks entirely different in Week 1 of the 2021 season. Fichtner should still have no issues finding another job as a QBs or assistant coach on the market. Source: Tom Pelissero on Twitter Jan 14, 2021, 10:26 AM ET
OH HAPPY DAY!!!
12 Team PPR Dynasty
QB, 2 RB, 3 WR, Flex RB/WR/TE
Wentz, Tannehill
S Barkley, J Jacobs, C Carson, R Freeman, Dobbins
AJ Brown, T Hill, C Kupp, DJ Chark, Lamb, Jefferson
Jaylen Waddle WR, College Player Alabama junior WR Jaylen Waddle has officially declared for the 2021 NFL Draft. Jan 14, 2021, 3:28 PM ET
Clyde Edwards-Helaire RB, Kansas City Chiefs Clyde Edwards-Helaire (hip) was downgraded to "DNP" on Thursday.
CEH was limited on Wednesday coming off the Chiefs' bye week. It's possible this is part of a pre-planned routine to manage CEH's reps, but it's still a bad sign for a player who went down in Week 15. Edwards-Helaire should now be considered on the wrong side of questionable for Sunday's Divisional Round showdown with the Browns. His absence would leave Le'Veon Bell and Darrel Williams to sort out touches in the Chiefs' backfield. The last time things mattered for the Chiefs in Week 16, coach Andy Reid featured Williams over Bell. Jan 14, 2021, 2:52 PM ET
Jared Goff QB, Los Angeles Rams Jared Goff (thumb) will start the Divisional Round against Green Bay.
John Wolford (neck) has been declared out, so it will be Blake Bortles backing Goff up in the Frozen Tundra of Green Bay. Goff appeared mostly healthy after being thrust into duty against the Seahawks, but the Rams' mid-week needle thread actually seemed true instead of merely coachspeak to justify sitting Goff in Seattle: He was healthy enough to back up but not quite ready to start. With another seven days of healing under his belt, hopefully his ball placement will be there against the Packers' stingy pass defense. The Rams are going to try to ride Cam Akers to the upset. The Pack are far more vulnerable on the ground. Jan 14, 2021, 2:44 PM ET
John Wolford QB, Los Angeles Rams John Wolford (neck) is out for the Rams' Divisional Round game against the Packers.
Wolford suffered a stinger early in the Rams' Wild Card win over the Seahawks and had to be taken to a local hospital for treatment. He didn't practice on Wednesday and would seem unlikely to get in any work leading up to LA's Divisional Round game. The Rams will hope Jared Goff and his broken thumb can muddle through a tough matchup against a stellar Green Bay defense. Source: Andew Siciliano on Twitter Jan 14, 2021, 2:40 PM ET
Scott Fitterer GM, Carolina Panthers Panthers hired Seahawks VP of football operations Scott Fitterer as general manager.
With the Seahawks since 2001, Fitterer just completed his sixth season as VP of football operations. Something of an annual candidate on the interview circuit, Fitterer had never find the right fit to leave Seattle. Fitterer has a background in both college scouting and pro personnel, but he is most known for his work on the college side. A survivor of three head coaches and a handful of front offices in Seattle, Fitterer will be tasked with furthering ex-college coach Matt Rhule's NFL evolution, something he has experience with from working with Pete Carroll. Related:
Seattle Seahawks
Source: Ian Rapoport on Twitter Jan 14, 2021, 3:51 PM ET
Comments
NBC Sports' John Clark reports the Eagles won't retain Senior offensive assistant Rich Scangarello.
Coach Doug Pederson called his own plays throughout the year but Scangarello was still brought on help "marry" Philadelphia's run game with the team's play under center â an experiment that clearly failed long-term. Marty Mornhinweg is also reportedly following DC Jim Schwartz out the door immediately. The Eagles' overhaul around Pederson also includes wide receivers coach Aaron Moorehead, pass game analyst Andrew Breiner and defensive backs coach Marquand Manuel.
Source: John Clark on Twitter
Jan 7, 2021, 12:51 PM ET
- - - - - - - - - - - Starting requirements = QB - RB - RB/WR - WR - WR/TE - TE - DST - K
QB - J.Allen, J.Herbert, R.Wilson, Stafford / RB - Saquon, Kamara, D.Cook, Zele, Mattison, Pollard, Latavius Murray, Gallman
WR - M.Thomas, Hopkins, Godwin, A.J.Brown, Chark, Lamb, Claypool, Mooney / TE - M.Andrews. Hockenson, Gesicki, Hurst, Knox
DST - Ravens, Buccaneers / K - Sanders
12 Team Dynasty - TDs = 4-6 / PassingYd =.04 / Rushing-ReceivingYd =.10 / PPR / Bonus 3 at 300-100
- - - - - - - - - - - Starting requirements = QB - 2RB - 3WR - 1TE - 1FlexRWT - DST - K
QB - Cousins, Darnold, Marriota / RB - R.Jones, Dillon, D.Harris, Ingram, DJ, K.Johnson, R.Armstead, Benjamin, McKissic
WR DK.Metcalf, Claypool, Perriman, Hamler, Boykin, Byrd, DavidMoore, Guyton / TE - Gesicki, Hurst, Trautman, Knox
DST - Steelers, Buccaneers / K - Lutz
Colts CB Rock Ya-Sin (concussion) is out for Saturday against the Bills.
Indianapolis usually plays a lot of Cover 2 zone defense so Ya-Sin's absence probably won't benefit a particular Buffalo receiver. It's all around bad new for a Colts' defense that's going to need all hands on deck against Josh Allen's juggernaut offense. The matchup for Allen, Stefon Diggs, John Brown, and the rest of the Bills pass catchers just got that much better.
Source: Mike Wells on Twitter
Jan 7, 2021, 2:17 PM ET
Ronnie Harrison DB, Cleveland Browns
Browns placed S Ronnie Harrison on the reserve/COVID-19 list.
This could explain why the team canceled practice Thursday. Harrison returned for the team's Week 17 win over the Steelers after an extended absence after spraining his shoulder, making six tackles in the victory. Already without key players like LG Joel Bitonio and OL Nick Harris, the Browns will be without Harrison for their playoff game against the Steelers. Things could get ugly for the Browns on Sunday.
Source: Mary Kay Cabot on Twitter
Jan 7, 2021, 2:34 PM ET
DeForest Buckner DL, Indianapolis Colts
Colts DT DeForest Buckner (ankle) is questionable for the Wild Card Round against the Bills.
Despite the questionable tag, Buckner is expected to go against the Bills. Speaking Thursday, coach Frank Reich said Buckner's ankle gets "re-aggravated every game day," but that he has also improved with time. The Colts won't have much shot at springing the upset if Buckner isn't operating at near his normal level of effectiveness.
Source: Jim Ayello on Twitter
Jan 7, 2021, 2:22 PM ET
Report: Deshaun Watson âextremely unhappyâ with Texans
Posted by Charean Williams on January 7, 2021, 7:39 PM EST
USA TODAY Sports
A little over an hour after a report surfaced that the Texans were hiring Nick Caserio as General Manager on Tuesday, Deshaun Watson tweeted â and later deleted â what seemed his displeasure with the choice.
âsome things never changeâŠ.â Watson wrote.
The quarterback is âextremely unhappy with the organizationâ and not answering calls from the Texansâ front office, Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reports.
âThis has nothing to do with the actual hire of GM Nick Caserio. It has to do with the process,â Rapoport continued.
Owner Cal McNair promised Watson he would be involved in the process of hiring a new G.M. and a new head coach to replace Bill OâBrien, who held both titles before being fired in October. The Texans did not consult Watson for his feedback before hiring Caserio, per Rapoport.
PFTâs Mike Florio reported earlier in the day that rumors are circulating that Watson has broached with teammates the possibility of requesting a trade. Later in the day, a report followed out of Houston that the Texans wonât trade Watson if he asks for it.
The sides obviously are at odds, leaving the Texans in a position to make sure Watson is on board with the hiring of a new head coach. Unless, of course, he already is past of the point of making up and desires to move on. Then what?
Report: Deshaun Watson advocated for Eric Bieniemy as head coach
Posted by Mike Florio on January 7, 2021, 8:42 PM EST
Divisional Round - Houston Texans v Kansas City Chiefs
Getty Images
And now we know why Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson is telling teammates he may ask for a trade.
A flood of reports has emerged on Thursday night, as reported have chased the story teed up earlier today by our item raising the question of whether Watson wants out. Itâs now clear that he does.
Albert Breer of SI.com supplies another reason for Watsonâs consternation. Per Breer, Watson advocated for the Texans to hire Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy. The Texans, however, became the only team with a vacancy to not even interview Bieniemy.
Breer explains that Mahomes âput in a strong wordâ for Bieniemy, which prompted Watson to push for Bieniemy. The Texans, who had said theyâd consult with Watson, ignored Watsonâs suggestion. And that undoubtedly has contributed to the consternation and frustration that Watson is currently feeling.
Although the Texans claim they wonât trade Watson, they may have no choice. Especially once they start getting offers that they may not be able to refuse. Now that the cat is out of the bag, itâs inevitable that new G.M. Nick Caserioâs phone will be ringing.
Share this:
SleeperU Forum Moderator
USA
- - - - - - - - - - - Starting requirements = QB - RB - RB/WR - WR - WR/TE - TE - DST - K
QB - J.Allen, J.Herbert, R.Wilson, Stafford / RB - Saquon, Kamara, D.Cook, Zele, Mattison, Pollard, Latavius Murray, Gallman
WR - M.Thomas, Hopkins, Godwin, A.J.Brown, Chark, Lamb, Claypool, Mooney / TE - M.Andrews. Hockenson, Gesicki, Hurst, Knox
DST - Ravens, Buccaneers / K - Sanders
12 Team Dynasty - TDs = 4-6 / PassingYd =.04 / Rushing-ReceivingYd =.10 / PPR / Bonus 3 at 300-100
- - - - - - - - - - - Starting requirements = QB - 2RB - 3WR - 1TE - 1FlexRWT - DST - K
QB - Cousins, Darnold, Marriota / RB - R.Jones, Dillon, D.Harris, Ingram, DJ, K.Johnson, R.Armstead, Benjamin, McKissic
WR DK.Metcalf, Claypool, Perriman, Hamler, Boykin, Byrd, DavidMoore, Guyton / TE - Gesicki, Hurst, Trautman, Knox
DST - Steelers, Buccaneers / K - Lutz
Trey Hendrickson out for Saints on Sunday
Posted by Josh Alper on January 8, 2021, 3:54 PM EST
NFL: NOV 01 Saints at Bears
Getty Images
The Saints will be without their sack leader against the Bears on Sunday.
Defensive end Trey Hendrickson has been ruled out of the game. Hendrickson has a neck injury and went from limited participation on Wednesday to being out of practice Thursday. He remained on the sideline for Fridayâs session.
Hendrickson also missed Week 16 because of his neck, but returned to play last weekend and had a sack. He finished the year with 13.5 sacks and 25 quarterback hits.
Guard Nick Easton is the only other player with an injury designation. He will not play because of a concussion.
Wide receiver Michael Thomas remains on injured reserve, so he is not on the teamâs injury report. He must be activated by Saturday afternoon in order to play in the game.
Cowboys fired DC Mike Nolan.
This was expected following the worst defensive performance in the franchise's 61-year history. A non-inspiring name even at the time of his hire, Nolan tried installing an extremely technical scheme in a year with no offseason reps and preseason games, taking a struggling defense and arguably making it worse. The Cowboys finished 2020 having allowed a franchise-record 473 points including three first-half touchdowns to the Giants in Week 17's must-win finale. Dallas was also road grated for 164.8 rushing yards per game, the second-worst mark in franchise history behind only the inaugural 1960 defense (186.8 yards). The organization will clearly look to rehaul that unit this offseason.
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Dallas Cowboys
Source: Jay Glazer on Twitter
Jan 8, 2021, 4:25 PM ET
Cowboys hire Dan Quinn as defensive coordinator
Posted by Michael David Smith on January 11, 2021, 6:13 PM EST
Chicago Bears v Atlanta Falcons
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The Cowboys have their new defensive coordinator.
Dan Quinn has been hired as Dallasâs most important assistant coach, according to multiple reports.
Quinn replaces Mike Nolan, who was fired after the Cowboysâ defense turned in a disappointing 2020 season.
The 50-year-old Quinn was fired as Falcons head coach during the 2020 season. He had been in Atlanta since 2015, when he was hired away from Seattle, where he coordinated the Super Bowl-winning Seahawks Defense. The Cowboys will now hope he can have that kind of success in Dallas as well.
Seahawks signed GM John Schneider to a five-year extension through 2027.
The extension takes Schneider through the 2027 draft. It is likely a reaction to the Lions seeking permission to interview Pete Carroll's longtime personnel boss. It is an interesting time for a new contract, as the Seahawks' roster isn't exactly in great shape despite this year's 12-4 campaign. This is the lowest they have been on defensive talent during Schneider's tenure, while the offensive line fell apart in the Wild Card Round. Working in tandem, Schneider and Carroll have botched their first selection, whether it is Round 1 or 2, over and over again. Their extremely aggressive pursuit of Jamal Adams left them without first-round picks in 2020 and 2021. You almost never see that level of draft capital thrown at a safety. Schneider and Carroll, of course, have also come away with lots of brilliant Day 2 and 3 hits, most recently DK Metcalf. They still have to stop relying on Russell Wilson for everything and fill out a stronger overall roster.
Jan 12, 2021, 1:45 PM ET
The Texans have requested permission to interview Chiefs OC Eric Bieniemy for their head-coaching vacancy.
The Texans have supposedly "essentially started their search over" since hiring GM Nick Caserio. Franchise player Deshaun Watson was furious when the team did not even reach out to Bieniemy, who is arguably the strongest candidate available this winter. Of course, this could amount to little more than an empty gesture, as the Texans missed the initial window to interview Bieniemy. Now they can't talk to him until after the Super Bowl or following the Chiefs' elimination. The Chiefs, of course, are in commanding position to reach another title game. Bieniemy probably doesn't have the luxury of keeping this opportunity open, as it would be extremely rare for a departing Super Bowl coordinator not to have his next job unofficially lined up before the big game.
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Houston Texans
Source: Ian Rapoport on Twitter
Jan 12, 2021, 1:45 PM ET
Raiders hired Gus Bradley as defensive coordinator.
Bradley was an assistant coach under Jon Gruden in Tampa Bay from 2006-08 before becoming a defensive coordinator with the Seahawks. Bradley then served as head coach of the Jaguars from 2013-16. Gruden said Monday that the Raiders want to keep their 4-3 defensive scheme, which Bradley uses. The Raiders fired former defensive coordinator Paul Guenther after late-game meltdowns from a defense that allowed 29.9 points per game, the third most in the league. The Raiders had the third lowest sack rate in the NFL this season. Bradley has work to do.
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Los Angeles Chargers
Source: Vincent Bonsignore on Twitter
Jan 12, 2021, 12:41 PM ET
Browns placed CB Robert Jackson on injured reserve with a hamstring injury.
You've probably never heard of Jackson, but his loss is going to be a problem. He was an every-snap player the past two weeks for Cleveland's injury-depleted secondary. The Browns desperately need Denzel Ward (COVID-19) and nickel corner Kevin Johnson (COVID-19) back for the Divisional Round.
Jan 12, 2021, 2:00 PM ET
Michael Dunn T, Cleveland Browns
Browns placed LG Michael Dunn on injured reserve with a calf injury.
Dunn was filling in for COVID-positive Joel Bitonio in the Wild Card Round. Dunn's injury forced the Browns to turn to a player Baker Mayfield had literally never met (Blake Hance). Bitonio should be back for the Browns' Divisional Round showdown with the Chiefs. Dunn would be eligible to return for a theoretical Super Bowl appearance.
Jan 12, 2021, 1:20 PM ET
Kevin Minter LB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Buccaneers placed LB Kevin Minter on the reserve/COVID list.
Minter started in Tampa Bay's last two games, most recently collecting six tackles and one pass defended in Saturday's Wild Card win against Washington. Devin White, who was activated from the COVID list Monday, is expected to return to the team's starting lineup in the Divisional Round against the Saints.
Source: Pro Football Talk on Twitter
Jan 11, 2021, 3:29 PM ET
Alex Cappa G, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Buccaneers coach Bruce Arians said RG Alex Cappa will miss the rest of the postseason with a fractured ankle.
He'll be replaced by Aaron Stinnie for the Bucs' remaining games. It's clearly an impactful loss since Cappa hadn't permitted a single sack on 1,070 snaps across Tampa Bay's offensive line all year. Note that the Saints, the Bucs' Divisional opponent, finished with the league's sixth-highest pressure rate this season.
Source: Sara Walsh on Twitter
Jan 11, 2021, 3:10 PM ET
Bears DC Chuck Pagano retired.
Pagano coached in the NFL for 18 years -- six as a head coach for the Colts (53-43), three as a defensive coordinator between the Bears and Ravens, and the rest as a secondary coach. Over the last two seasons as Chicago's defensive coordinator, the Bears finished inside the top-10 in expected points added (EPA) each year, although that can partially be attributed to their talent. With Pagano heading into retirement, the Bears will be forced into hiring their third defensive coordinator within four seasons. His loss will be felt, but he and Mitchell Trubisky will be viewed as scapegoats for coach Matt Nagy and GM Ryan Pace, who reportedly will return for the 2021 season.
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Chicago Bears
Source: Kevin Fishbain on Twitter
Jan 12, 2021, 7:30 PM ET
Brian Schottenheimer C, Unsigned Free Agent
Seahawks fired OC Brian Schottenheimer.
Schottenheimer and the Seahawks "parted ways" citing "philosophical differences" as the reason why. The Seahawks offense has been good but inconsistent since Schottenheimer was hired in 2018. Critics believed Seattle's balanced approach on offense was to blame, sparking the #LetRussCook movement. Russell Wilson was pacing for an MVP season through the first eight weeks of 2020 while ranking top-five in neutral pass rate, but the offense began running more on early downs and Wilson struggled making easy throws underneath. That set up a total stinker against the Rams' Cover 2 defense in the Wild Card round. Ultimately, the Seahawks ranked 6th, 9th, and 8th in points under Schotty's watch. He'll likely be invited for offensive coordinator interviews immediately.
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Seattle Seahawks
Source: Seahawks on Twitter
Jan 12, 2021, 6:22 PM ET
Cowboys hired Joe Whitt as secondary coach.
Whitt interviewed for the defensive coordinator job, which went to ex-Falcons HC Dan Quinn. He'll follow Quinn to Dallas for a lateral move as secondary coach and defensive pass game coordinator. Whitt was also on Mike McCarthyâs coaching staff with the Packers from 2008-2018.
Source: NFL Network
Jan 13, 2021, 9:27 AM ET
Broncos hire George Paton as new general manager
Posted by Michael David Smith on January 13, 2021, 12:41 PM EST
Denver Broncos v Baltimore Ravens
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The Broncos have found their new GM.
George Paton and the Broncos have agreed to terms on a deal that makes Paton Denverâs general manager, according to multiple reports.
The Denver GM job opened up when John Elway stepped aside from day-to-day personnel work, although Elway will continue to oversee the Broncosâ front office.
Paton has spent 14 seasons with the Vikings, working as assistant general manager under Rick Spielman. He has also spent time with the Bears and Dolphins. Now Paton will get to work on turning around a Denver team that hasnât been to the playoffs since Peyton Manning retired.
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Jaguars hired Urban Meyer as head coach.
Negotiations have reportedly been ongoing for at least a month as Meyer has made it a point to upgrade Jacksonville's practice facility â well short of the facilities he had during his tenure at Ohio State â and land multi-year deals for the assistant coaches he has in mind. Owner Shad Khan interviewed a handful of other candidates but clearly honed in on Meyer from the very beginning. Some headlines will attempt to coax readers into believing Meyer will link up with Buckeyes QB Justin Fields with the No. 1 overall pick, but that spot is reserved for franchise cornerstone Trevor Lawrence. The organization is at least willing to allow Meyer to rebuild on his terms, granting him a longer leash than most for a franchise that has won just 44 games in the last 10 years.
Source: Jeremy Fowler on Twitter
Jan 14, 2021, 9:35 AM ET
Lions hired former Rams director of college scouting Brad Holmes as general manager.
Detroit had also interviewed Colts assistant GM Ed Dodds before moving forward with the first (and primary) candidate on its list. The Rams will also become the first team to receive two third-round compensatory draft picks for Bradley as part of the NFL's new hiring initiatives. The two sides are reportedly finalizing a five-year deal after Holmes had been in his former position in Los Angeles for eight seasons. Holmes was also a finalist for Atlanta's GM role, setting the stage for Saints assistant GM Terry Fontenot to land there once New Orleans' postseason run comes to an end.
Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter
Jan 14, 2021, 11:17 AM ET
Steelers won't re-sign OC Randy Fichtner.
Pittsburgh will allow Fichtner's contract to expire ahead of the new league year and won't bring him back. This was an expected move after the Steelers' only success on offense in the last two months was the one half Ben Roethlisberger called his own plays following the intermission in Week 16 against the Colts. With JuJu Smith-Schuster's and James Conner's contracts also running their course (and Roethlisberger having only one year left on his deal), it's possible the team's offense looks entirely different in Week 1 of the 2021 season. Fichtner should still have no issues finding another job as a QBs or assistant coach on the market.
Source: Tom Pelissero on Twitter
Jan 14, 2021, 10:26 AM ET
Alabama junior WR Jaylen Waddle has officially declared for the 2021 NFL Draft.
Jan 14, 2021, 3:28 PM ET
Clyde Edwards-Helaire RB, Kansas City Chiefs
Clyde Edwards-Helaire (hip) was downgraded to "DNP" on Thursday.
CEH was limited on Wednesday coming off the Chiefs' bye week. It's possible this is part of a pre-planned routine to manage CEH's reps, but it's still a bad sign for a player who went down in Week 15. Edwards-Helaire should now be considered on the wrong side of questionable for Sunday's Divisional Round showdown with the Browns. His absence would leave Le'Veon Bell and Darrel Williams to sort out touches in the Chiefs' backfield. The last time things mattered for the Chiefs in Week 16, coach Andy Reid featured Williams over Bell.
Jan 14, 2021, 2:52 PM ET
Jared Goff QB, Los Angeles Rams
Jared Goff (thumb) will start the Divisional Round against Green Bay.
John Wolford (neck) has been declared out, so it will be Blake Bortles backing Goff up in the Frozen Tundra of Green Bay. Goff appeared mostly healthy after being thrust into duty against the Seahawks, but the Rams' mid-week needle thread actually seemed true instead of merely coachspeak to justify sitting Goff in Seattle: He was healthy enough to back up but not quite ready to start. With another seven days of healing under his belt, hopefully his ball placement will be there against the Packers' stingy pass defense. The Rams are going to try to ride Cam Akers to the upset. The Pack are far more vulnerable on the ground.
Jan 14, 2021, 2:44 PM ET
John Wolford QB, Los Angeles Rams
John Wolford (neck) is out for the Rams' Divisional Round game against the Packers.
Wolford suffered a stinger early in the Rams' Wild Card win over the Seahawks and had to be taken to a local hospital for treatment. He didn't practice on Wednesday and would seem unlikely to get in any work leading up to LA's Divisional Round game. The Rams will hope Jared Goff and his broken thumb can muddle through a tough matchup against a stellar Green Bay defense.
Source: Andew Siciliano on Twitter
Jan 14, 2021, 2:40 PM ET
Panthers hired Seahawks VP of football operations Scott Fitterer as general manager.
With the Seahawks since 2001, Fitterer just completed his sixth season as VP of football operations. Something of an annual candidate on the interview circuit, Fitterer had never find the right fit to leave Seattle. Fitterer has a background in both college scouting and pro personnel, but he is most known for his work on the college side. A survivor of three head coaches and a handful of front offices in Seattle, Fitterer will be tasked with furthering ex-college coach Matt Rhule's NFL evolution, something he has experience with from working with Pete Carroll.
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Seattle Seahawks
Source: Ian Rapoport on Twitter
Jan 14, 2021, 3:51 PM ET