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NFL News

Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.

Friday, April 17

Ty Simpson Rises as Potential 2026 Top-10 Pick; Cardinals Eyeing QB Options

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Former Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson is generating significant buzz as a potential top-10 selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, with collaborative mock drafts projecting him as a first-round pick. Rumors suggest potential trade scenarios involving the Arizona Cardinals or Cleveland Browns could facilitate his landing. The Cardinals, in particular, are reportedly eyeing other quarterback options like Simpson, especially as current QB Jacoby Brissett pushes for a starter-level contract extension, potentially impacting their future plans at the position.

Packers Waive Cornerback Tyron Herring

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The Green Bay Packers have waived cornerback Tyron Herring. The transaction was executed as the team looks to adjust their 90-man roster composition leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft.

Packers Release Linebacker Jamon Johnson

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The Green Bay Packers have released linebacker Jamon Johnson, a top undrafted free agent from the 2025 class. The move is part of a broader effort by the team to trim their 90-man roster in preparation for the 2026 NFL Draft.

Packers Waive Tight End McCallan Castles

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The Green Bay Packers have officially waived tight end McCallan Castles. This roster move is part of a series of transactions made by the organization to clear space on their 90-man roster ahead of the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.

Vikings Consider Potential Trade Options for J.J. McCarthy

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With the 2026 NFL Draft approaching, speculation surrounds the future of J.J. McCarthy with the Minnesota Vikings. Having started only 10 of 34 possible games in his career, questions remain regarding his long-term role. Reports suggest the team may be evaluating other options at quarterback, leading to discussions about a potential trade involving McCarthy during the draft process.

Micah Parsons' Contract Benchmark Surpassed by Will Anderson Jr.

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Micah Parsons' previous contract standing has been eclipsed following the Houston Texans' record-breaking $150 million extension for Will Anderson Jr. The new deal for Anderson, which averages $50 million per year, has set a new financial benchmark for non-quarterbacks in the NFL, effectively moving the market past the figures associated with elite defensive players like Parsons.

Steelers OC Brian Angelichio Praises Will Howard's Development

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Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio has offered a positive assessment of quarterback Will Howard. In recent comments, Angelichio raved about Howard's performance and development, signaling confidence in the quarterback as the team navigates its current roster and offensive planning.

Zay Flowers Criticizes Ravens' Former High-Intensity Practice Routine

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Baltimore Ravens WR Zay Flowers has publicly criticized the team's former high-intensity, full-pads practice approach under John Harbaugh, linking the heavy workload to last season's injury struggles. Flowers expressed hope that the current staff, including Jesse Minter, will implement a more sustainable regimen. He noted that players were 'tired' under the previous system and is optimistic about a healthier approach for the upcoming season.

Jets Target Offensive Help for Geno Smith in Mock Draft

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In the latest SB Nation community mock draft, the New York Jets utilized the 16th overall pick to select USC wide receiver Makai Lemon. The move is aimed at bolstering the team's receiving corps and providing quarterback Geno Smith with a new target to improve the offensive production for the upcoming season.

Jets Select WR Makai Lemon in SB Nation Community Mock Draft

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In the 20th annual SB Nation community mock draft, the New York Jets selected USC wide receiver Makai Lemon with the 16th overall pick. The selection is intended to provide quarterback Geno Smith with an additional offensive weapon, addressing the team's need for playmakers in the passing game.

Kedon Slovis Included in Cardinals Quarterback Depth

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Kedon Slovis is currently listed on the Arizona Cardinals' roster as part of the team's quarterback room, alongside Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew II. His presence is noted as the team navigates the start of their offseason program and contract negotiations with incumbent starter Jacoby Brissett.

Gardner Minshew Remains in Cardinals Quarterback Room

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Gardner Minshew II is currently on the Arizona Cardinals' roster alongside Jacoby Brissett and Kedon Slovis. As Brissett holds out from the team's offseason program while seeking a new contract, Minshew remains a key figure in the team's quarterback depth chart heading into the new season.

Dexter Lawrence Trade Rumors Persist Amid Giants' Draft Strategy

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The contract status of star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence remains a focal point for the New York Giants. As the team prepares for its first draft under head coach John Harbaugh, speculation continues regarding a potential major trade involving Lawrence. Reports suggest his future is a significant factor in the organization's current offseason roster discussions and could influence their draft-day strategy.

Steelers DC Patrick Graham Noncommittal Regarding Jalen Ramsey

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Pittsburgh Steelers defensive coordinator Patrick Graham has remained noncommittal when discussing Jalen Ramsey. The comments come as the team evaluates its defensive personnel and roster construction during the current offseason period.

Sonny Styles Emerging as Top Prospect in 2026 NFL Draft Mocks

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Sonny Styles is gaining significant traction as a potential high-value selection in the 2026 NFL Draft. The New York Giants are actively evaluating him as a candidate for the No. 5 overall pick, with analysts weighing his defensive versatility against other top prospects like Caleb Downs. Recent mock draft roundups continue to highlight Styles as a popular and rising choice for teams looking to bolster their defensive units.

Caleb Williams Analyzed: Performance Splits Against Man and Zone Coverages

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The final installment of a deep-dive series into Caleb Williams' 2025 season performance has been released. The analysis focuses on the Chicago Bears quarterback's specific statistical splits and decision-making when facing man versus zone defensive coverages, providing a detailed look at his development and tactical approach against varying defensive schemes.

Joe Flacco Voices Opposition to Proposed 18-Game NFL Schedule

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Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Flacco has publicly voiced his opposition to the NFL's potential expansion to an 18-game regular season. Flacco provided two distinct reasons why he believes the move would be detrimental to the league and its players, signaling the start of veteran pushback against the proposed schedule changes.

Kenyon Sadiq Ranked as Top 2026 NFL Draft Tight End

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Kenyon Sadiq has been identified as the premier tight end prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft class. According to recent rankings by USA TODAY Sports, Sadiq leads his position group, making him a primary target for teams seeking to bolster offensive depth. Fantasy football analysts are also highlighting his potential impact, noting the intrigue surrounding his transition to the professional level.

Ashton Jeanty Listed as Longshot for 2026 OPOY

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Ashton Jeanty is being recognized as a longshot candidate for the 2026 Offensive Player of the Year award. Analysts suggest that Las Vegas skill-position players, including Jeanty, could be primed for breakout seasons as the team looks to maximize their offensive output.

Brock Bowers Primed for Big Season with Raiders

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Brock Bowers is considered a longshot option for 2026 Offensive Player of the Year, with analysts noting that Las Vegas skill-position players could be primed for significant production. Additionally, Bowers has expressed high praise for quarterback Kirk Cousins, as the Raiders organization prepares for the upcoming draft and potential roster shifts.