Player news from trusted outlets

NFL News

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

Monday, March 2

QB Ty Simpson Cracks First Round as QB2 in Post-Combine Mock

AutoDraft Pro AI

Quarterback Ty Simpson has emerged as a significant prospect in a post-Combine NFL mock draft, where he is projected to crack the first round as the second quarterback off the board. This places him among the top talents following recent combine performances, indicating a strong rise in his draft stock.

Sunday, March 1

Raiders Target Offensive Line Help to Support Ashton Jeanty

AutoDraft Pro AI

Following the trade of Maxx Crosby, the Las Vegas Raiders are prioritizing offensive line upgrades in the 2026 NFL Draft to better support running back Ashton Jeanty. Analysts suggest the team will use the acquired draft capital to address interior line deficiencies that hindered Jeanty's production last season. The shift in strategy aims to implement a power running scheme better suited to Jeanty's skill set under the new coaching staff.

Trade Speculation Cools as Raiders Deal Crosby to Ravens

AutoDraft Pro AI

While early NFL combine reports suggested trade buzz surrounding Maxx Crosby had quieted, subsequent mock draft analysis confirms the Las Vegas Raiders have dealt the star edge rusher to the Baltimore Ravens. The move, characterized as a 'win now' decision for Baltimore, significantly impacts the Raiders' draft strategy, as they now hold an additional first-round pick (14th overall) to address offensive line needs for running back Ashton Jeanty.

Vikings Eyeing Veteran QBs Amidst Roster Overhaul

AutoDraft Pro AI

The Minnesota Vikings are reportedly considering a significant roster overhaul, potentially bringing in veteran quarterbacks like Tua Tagovailoa or Kyler Murray to compete with J.J. McCarthy in 2026. The team is also planning to release veterans Aaron Jones and Javon Hargrave. While Cousins is a free agent, Tagovailoa, Murray, and Smith are potential cuts or trades. Cousins had a 5-3 record with 1,721 yards, 10 TDs, and 5 INTs in 2025. Tagovailoa posted 2,660 yards, 20 TDs, and 15 INTs before being benched. Murray played 5 games with 951 yards, 6 TDs, 3 INTs, and 173 rushing yards before injury. Smith threw 3,025 yards, 19 TDs, and led the league with 17 INTs. Jones rushed for 548 yards and 2 TDs, with 199 receiving yards and 1 TD. Hargrave recorded 52 tackles and 3.5 sacks.

Bills Consider Trade-Up for WR Carnell Tate

AutoDraft Pro AI

The Buffalo Bills are reportedly exploring options to trade up for WR Carnell Tate, aiming to enhance their offense during Josh Allen's prime. This move is seen as crucial for their championship aspirations, with the team prioritizing aggression at the wide receiver position.

Bills Eye Trade-Up for WR Carnell Tate Amidst Championship Window

AutoDraft Pro AI

The Buffalo Bills are reportedly considering an aggressive move, potentially a trade-up for WR Carnell Tate, to capitalize on Josh Allen's prime and their championship window. This strategy is deemed a necessity, not a luxury, for the team's offensive needs at the wide receiver position.

Carnell Tate's Combine 40-Yard Dash Ranks 35th Percentile

AutoDraft Pro AI

Ohio State WR Carnell Tate recorded a 4.53-second 40-yard dash at the Combine, placing him in the 35th percentile for wide receivers since 1999. Weighing 192 pounds, he also achieved a 47th-percentile Speed Score. The Buffalo Bills are reportedly considering a trade-up for Tate to bolster their receiving corps during Josh Allen's prime, viewing it as a necessity for their championship window.

David Montgomery Questions Report About Wanting to Leave Lions

AutoDraft Pro AI

David Montgomery has questioned a report stating he wants to leave the Detroit Lions, though he didn't fully dispute it. The Lions are reportedly assessing his trade value, hoping for a Day 3 pick. Trading Montgomery would save $3.5 million in cap space, though $4.8 million would be dead money if done before June 1. He rushed for 716 yards and 8 TDs in 2025, with Jahmyr Gibbs' emergence potentially making Montgomery expendable.

Emmett Johnson's Underwhelming Combine Performance Raises Concerns

AutoDraft Pro AI

Nebraska RB Emmett Johnson recorded an underwhelming NFL Combine performance, clocking a 4.56-second 40-yard dash, registering a 41st percentile Speed Score. He also posted subpar marks with a 35.5-inch vertical, 10-foot broad jump, 4.29-second short shuttle, and 7.32-second three-cone drill. These results could potentially limit his fantasy upside and draft stock, indicating a need for further evaluation of his athletic profile.

Cardinals Expected to Release Kyler Murray Amid Foot Injury

AutoDraft Pro AI

Cardinals QB Kyler Murray (foot) is reportedly 'likely' to be released by Arizona, barring a last-second trade, according to Ian Rapoport. General manager Monti Ossenfort stated 'all options are on the table,' but a separation is expected shortly after the new league year starts March 11 to avoid a $19.5 million guaranteed roster bonus due March 16. Murray missed the final 12 games of the 2025 season with a foot sprain, completing 68.3% of passes for 962 yards, 6 TDs, 3 INTs, and 173 rushing yards across five games.

Jameis Winston Delivers Motivational Pep Talk at INDYCAR Race

AutoDraft Pro AI

Giants QB Jameis Winston quarterbacked the mic during pre-race festivities at INDYCAR's Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. He delivered a motivational pep talk to rookie driver Dennis Hauger, whom he nicknamed the 'Norwegian Nightmare,' ahead of his first INDYCAR race. Winston emphasized dedication, execution, and belief in oneself, telling Hauger, 'You were built for this moment.' He encouraged Hauger and his team to align their vision and execute to their best ability, adding another memorable speech to his repertoire.

Vikings Inform DT Javon Hargrave of Impending Release; Trade Possible

AutoDraft Pro AI

The Minnesota Vikings have informed defensive tackle Javon Hargrave that, barring a trade, he will be released at the start of the 2026 league year, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. This move is part of a larger strategy, as the Vikings are also set to release running back Aaron Jones. The combined release of both players would save Minnesota $18.65 million against the salary cap. Hargrave's potential departure aims to free up significant cap space for the team.

Vikings Inform Aaron Jones of Impending Release, Saving $7.75M

AutoDraft Pro AI

The Minnesota Vikings have informed running back Aaron Jones (hip) that he will be released at the start of the new league year on March 11, unless a trade is completed, per Adam Schefter. This move is projected to save the Vikings $7.75 million against the salary cap, as Jones was due a $9 million base salary in 2026. Last season, Jones was limited to 12 games due to injuries, recording 132 carries for 548 yards and two touchdowns, plus 28 receptions for 199 yards and one score. At 32 in December, Jones is expected to draw interest as a versatile veteran. His departure could open up a larger role for Jordan Mason in the 2026 backfield.

Jordan Mason Poised for Increased Role if Aaron Jones Departs Vikings

AutoDraft Pro AI

Jordan Mason is being considered a potential candidate to lead the Minnesota Vikings' 2026 backfield, contingent on the impending release of running back Aaron Jones. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the Vikings plan to release Jones, barring a trade, which would save the team $7.75 million against the salary cap. If Jones departs, Mason could see a significant increase in his workload and importance to the team's rushing attack, potentially stepping into a starting role.

A.J. Brown Trade Buzz Reportedly Quiets During NFL Combine Week

AutoDraft Pro AI

During NFL combine week, reports indicate that the trade buzz surrounding Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown has reportedly quieted. The article specifically addresses whether the speculation regarding a potential trade involving Brown has subsided, noting it as part of broader discussions about various NFL team quarterback markets and free agent interests. This update provides insight into the current status of player movement rumors.

Saturday, February 28

Ty Simpson Projected Late First-Round Pick

AutoDraft Pro AI

Alabama QB Ty Simpson, the No. 2 QB in the 2026 NFL Draft, is projected as a late first-round pick, potentially to the Los Angeles Rams. He completed 64.5% of passes for 3,567 yards, 28 TDs, and 5 INTs in his lone season as a starter. Praised for pocket awareness, accuracy, and quick release, he's compared to a more athletic Mac Jones or Tony Romo. Simpson also turned down lucrative NIL paydays from other schools. While needing consistency, he shows potential as a solid NFL starter.

Carson Beck Booed at Combine, Draft Stock Falls

AutoDraft Pro AI

Miami QB Carson Beck faced boos from the pro-Indiana crowd at the NFL Combine. His 2026 draft stock has fallen to a projected 4th-5th round pick due to inconsistency, 24 turnovers in 29 games, and UCL surgery. Once a first-round prospect, Beck struggles under pressure and aims to be a high-end backup. He was also booed by a pro-Indiana crowd at the combine, likely due to Miami's championship game loss to Indiana.

Mike Washington's Elite Speed Score at Combine

AutoDraft Pro AI

Arkansas RB Mike Washington, 6-1, 223 lbs, ran a blazing 4.33 40-yard dash at the Combine, achieving a 126.9 Speed Score (100th percentile). He also posted strong vertical (39 inches) and broad jumps (10-8). Washington rushed for 1,070 yards and 8 TDs in 2025, ranking 5th among top RB prospects in yards after contact (3.86) and 15+ yard runs (18.0%). He caught 28 balls and is projected as an early-round NFL Draft pick.

Jadarian Price's Combine Performance Underwhelms Despite No. 2 RB Status

AutoDraft Pro AI

Notre Dame RB Jadarian Price, the near-consensus No. 2 RB prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft, measured 5'11, 203 pounds (7 lbs lighter than listed) and ran a 4.49-second 40-yard dash at the Combine. His 99.9 Speed Score (66th percentile) and measurables were underwhelming, raising concerns his production (19.2% of runs gained 15+ yards) was situation-fueled. Price, who rejected NIL deals, is a four-down back with fumbling concerns, aiming for generational wealth in the NFL.

Jeremiyah Love Blazes 4.36 40-Yard Dash, Eyes Faster Time

AutoDraft Pro AI

Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love, the top 2026 NFL Draft prospect, ran an elite 4.36 40-yard dash at the combine, despite aiming for 4.2. The 6-0, 212-pound back averaged 1,507 scrimmage yards and 20 TDs in his final two seasons, finishing third in 2025 Heisman voting. He plans to skip Notre Dame's pro day. His performance reinforces his status as the clear top RB in the class, with a significant gap to other prospects.