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NFL News

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

Tuesday, February 24

Texans GM Caserio vehemently denies C.J. Stroud trade rumors amid performance concerns

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Texans GM Nick Caserio vehemently dismissed "moronic" trade speculation surrounding QB C.J. Stroud, stating, "We're not trading C.J. We're glad he's our quarterback." Caserio committed to Stroud for 2026, despite struggles in the Divisional Round (7 turnovers) and inconsistent play in his 2nd/3rd seasons. Stroud, the No. 2 overall pick in 2023, completed 64.5% of his passes for 3,041 yards, 19 TDs, and 8 INTs in 14 games in 2025. He also had five interceptions and five fumbles (two lost) in two playoff games. The logical move is to pick up his fifth-year option for 2027 ($27.249M guaranteed) rather than a mega extension this offseason.

Raiders GM 'Always Listening' to Offers for Maxx Crosby Amid Trade Speculation

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Raiders GM John Spytek publicly expects star DE Maxx Crosby to remain with the team for 2026, calling him an 'elite player.' However, Spytek also stated the team is 'always listening' to overwhelming trade offers, fueling speculation about Crosby's future. Crosby is reportedly frustrated with ongoing rebuilds and was shut down for the last two games of the 2025 season. FOX Sports suggests he's likely done in Vegas, with "no less than 20 teams" having previously inquired. Crosby, who signed a 3-year, $106.5M extension last offseason, wants to hear the Raiders' plan for turning the team around, with his finite peak years influencing his desire for immediate contention. The situation could lead to a trade request.

Cardinals GM: All Options Open for Kyler Murray's Future

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Cardinals GM Monti Ossenfort stated "all options are on the table" regarding Kyler Murray's future, amid reports they haven't communicated since the season ended. Murray played only five games last season due to a foot injury. A decision looms in mid-March regarding a $19.5 million guaranteed roster bonus for 2027. The team is exploring all avenues to improve, with Murray, Jacoby Brissett, and Kedon Slovis under contract.

Sean Payton Cedes Broncos Play-Calling Duties to OC Davis Webb for 2026 Season

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Denver Broncos Head Coach Sean Payton has officially handed over play-calling duties to Offensive Coordinator Davis Webb for the 2026 season. This marks the first time Payton will not call plays in Denver during his tenure, expressing "full trust" in Webb's "extreme talent" to invigorate the offense. Webb, 31, was promoted to OC on February 2nd after serving as QB coach and previously called plays in a 2025 preseason game. The Broncos, who finished 14th in points and total yards last season, aim to improve their offense under Webb's leadership.

Broncos Interview Linebacker Jake Golday at Combine

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The Denver Broncos interviewed Cincinnati linebacker Jake Golday at the NFL Scouting Combine. Golday is noted for his size, athleticism, and power in the run game. He is considered a potential second-round pick who could also sneak into the late first round.

Broncos Interview Linebacker Josiah Trotter at Combine

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The Denver Broncos interviewed Missouri linebacker Josiah Trotter at the NFL Scouting Combine. Trotter is described as a powerful downhill linebacker focused on run-stopping, potentially a two-down player. He is considered a draft prospect who could be selected on day two.

Broncos Interview Top Linebacker Sonny Styles at Combine

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The Denver Broncos conducted formal interviews with several top linebacker prospects at the NFL Scouting Combine, including Ohio State's Sonny Styles. Styles, a highly-rated athletic freak, is projected as a top-15 pick, potentially making him a reach for the Broncos who hold the 30th overall selection.

Sam Darnold Reflects on Jets Struggles Fueling Seahawks Success

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Sam Darnold credits his early career struggles with the New York Jets for shaping him into the player who quarterbacked the Seattle Seahawks to a Super Bowl LX victory. Despite doubt during his 13-25 record with the Jets, Darnold emphasized the belief of his teammates and coaches. After stints with the Panthers, 49ers, and Vikings, he signed with Seattle in March 2025, leading them to a 14-3 record last season with 4,048 yards and 25 touchdowns. He maintains strong relationships with former Jets teammates, acknowledging their impact on his development.

Bengals Director: Trey Hendrickson Trade 'Complicated'

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Bengals director of player personnel Duke Tobin stated that a trade involving defensive end Trey Hendrickson could prove to be a challenging endeavor for the team.

Bills GM Beane Challenges WR Keon Coleman on Attitude

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Buffalo Bills GM Brandon Beane indicated that the team is challenging wide receiver Keon Coleman to adopt the same positive attitude he displayed at the start of training camp last season.

Malik Willis Featured in 2026 Free Agent QB Market Analysis

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Malik Willis is highlighted in a preview of the top free agent quarterbacks expected in March 2026. The analysis explores potential team destinations and projected contract values for Willis and other notable QBs as the new league year approaches. The Dolphins GM also mentioned Willis as a player they are discussing.

Raiders GM Spytek Praises QB Prospect Fernando Mendoza

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Raiders GM John Spytek has repeatedly evaluated top 2026 QB prospect Fernando Mendoza, describing him as a "leader, tough as hell, maniacal preparer." Mendoza is considered a strong fit for the Raiders, who hold the No. 1 pick. While Spytek is open to trade offers, he anticipates selecting Mendoza. Mendoza, with 36 collegiate starts, will attend Combine interviews but not throw. Analyst Joel Klatt believes Mendoza will "absolutely succeed" in the NFL, highlighting his pocket presence and accurate, leverage-based throws.

Eagles' Sirianni Bets Big on Rookie Play-Caller Sean Mannion

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Eagles HC Nick Sirianni has hired Sean Mannion, a 33-year-old third-year assistant with no prior play-calling experience, as his new offensive coordinator. This decision is considered a significant gamble, as Sirianni's own job could be at risk if the move proves unsuccessful. Mannion, from the Sean McVay/Kyle Shanahan coaching tree, received glowing reviews for his football mind. The Eagles' offense struggled significantly in 2025, impacting Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown, and Saquon Barkley. Sirianni emphasizes running the ball, play-action, physicality, and detailed play.

Cowboys Grade High on RB Javonte Williams' Extension

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The Dallas Cowboys have signed RB Javonte Williams to a three-year deal worth up to $24 million with $16 million guaranteed. Williams, who played on a modest one-year deal last season, significantly outperformed expectations. The contract is seen as a balanced deal, not cheap but not top-tier in the current RB market.

Cam Ward Embraces Fiery OC Brian Daboll for Titans Development

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Tennessee Titans QB Cam Ward is set to benefit from new offensive coordinator Brian Daboll, whom GM Brandon Beane considers a "great asset." Ward, the No. 1 overall pick, flashed as a rookie with 3,169 yards, 15 TDs, and 7 INTs. He embraces Daboll's tough-love style, welcoming the accountability. Head coach Robert Saleh plans a "marathon approach" to Ward's development.

Josh Allen's Elite Status Highlighted, Daboll's Impact on Rise Detailed

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Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen, recognized among the NFL's elite players without a Super Bowl victory, has had his legendary career highlighted, with a championship ring noted as the only missing piece. Bills GM Brandon Beane recently detailed the significant impact former OC Brian Daboll had on Allen's development. Allen, initially a project with inconsistent play in his first two seasons (56.3% completion, 78.2 passer rating), saw his performance skyrocket in Year 3 under Daboll, achieving a 69.2% completion rate, 4,544 yards, 45 total touchdowns (37 pass, 8 rush), and a 107.2 passer rating, finishing second in MVP voting. Allen's "thick skin" was key to their connection.

Bears GM Poles Confirms Trade Calls for Tyson Bagent

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Bears GM Ryan Poles confirmed the team has received trade calls for QB Tyson Bagent, acknowledging it's an "interesting dynamic" given the need for a backup to Caleb Williams. Despite a two-year extension, Poles and HC Ben Johnson haven't ruled out a trade, though Poles called it a "tough decision" if the right offer emerges.

Harmon Analyzes 2026 NFL Draft WR Class

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Fantasy Football analyst Matt Harmon released his early 2026 NFL Draft wide receiver class analysis. He highlighted a diverse group of top prospects, including Makai Lemon, Carnell Tate, KC Concepcion, Jordyn Tyson, and Denzel Boston, all considered first-round talents. Harmon stressed the importance of intra-positional archetypes and team destination for early career production.

Buccaneers Grant Mike Evans Right to Explore Free Agency

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Despite their strong desire for veteran wide receiver Mike Evans to remain with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, General Manager Jason Licht and Head Coach Todd Bowles have publicly stated their belief that Evans has "earned" the right to explore free agency. This acknowledgment from team leadership indicates that the Buccaneers will not prevent the long-tenured wideout from testing the open market, potentially leading to his departure from the franchise as he seeks his next contract.

Taylor Decker Confirms Lions Return for 11th Season Despite Shoulder

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Detroit Lions LT Taylor Decker has confirmed his return for the 2026 season, marking his 11th year, via an Instagram post with '#Year11'. This decision follows earlier uncertainty and his consideration of retirement due to managing a shoulder injury throughout the 2025 season. Despite his return, Coach Dan Campbell noted Decker will still have "things that are going to need some management," and the team will continue to seek tackle depth. Decker carries a $21 million cap hit for 2026.