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NFL News

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

Tuesday, February 24

Giants GM Schoen denies Kayvon Thibodeaux is on trade block, expects him to stay

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Giants GM Joe Schoen firmly denied that edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux is on the trade block, stating, "Kayvon’s going to be with us" and emphasizing the need for pass rushers. While the Giants received calls about Thibodeaux at the 2025 trade deadline, Schoen confirmed he's not shopping him but will listen to offers. Thibodeaux, playing on his fifth-year option in 2026, had 11.5 sacks in 2023 but only 2.5 sacks in 10 games last season before a shoulder injury.

Cowboys All-Pro Tyler Smith Undergoes Minor Knee Surgery

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Cowboys All-Pro left guard Tyler Smith underwent minor cleanup surgery on his right knee, sources told ESPN. The procedure is not expected to impact his availability, as he is projected to be 100% ready for the team's offseason program, which typically begins in April. This update provides clarity on Smith's health ahead of the upcoming season, ensuring he will be prepared for team activities.

Jaguars face crossroads with Pro Bowl LB Devin Lloyd, weighing big contract or departure

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The Jacksonville Jaguars are at a critical juncture with Pro Bowl LB Devin Lloyd, who earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2025 with 5 interceptions and 1.5 sacks after previously average seasons. The team must decide whether to offer him a lucrative 3-4 year deal ($15-$20M annually), which could impact Travis Etienne's future, or let him walk. While teams like the Bengals and Raiders are projected suitors, the Jaguars are considering viable, cheaper replacements if Lloyd's asking price is too high.

Steelers GM Khan expects Patrick Queen to contribute, despite cut rumors

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Steelers GM Omar Khan addressed rumors surrounding LB Patrick Queen, stating, "It’s been a good experience with Pat," and that he expects Queen to contribute. Queen, who signed a 3-year, $41 million deal in 2024 (the team's largest external free-agent deal), recorded 129 tackles in his 2024 Pro Bowl season and 120 tackles in 2025, but has faced criticism for inconsistency. While cutting him would free up $12.5 million in cap space, it would also create a hole at MIKE linebacker.

Zach Ertz Targets Week 1 Return, Enters Free Agency After ACL Tear

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Veteran TE Zach Ertz, who tore his right ACL in December after his 35th birthday, plans to play in the upcoming 2026 season. NFL Network reports Ertz is expected to be cleared around Week 1. The three-time Pro Bowler, entering his 14th season, is set to hit unrestricted free agency in March, actively seeking a new team following his recovery. He aims to return to action early in the season after a brutal injury.

Mahomes' Influence on QB Archetype, Recent Struggles Noted

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Patrick Mahomes is highlighted as the NFL's 'North Star quarterback,' whose success, alongside Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson, has driven teams to prioritize athletic QBs with strong arms. The article contrasts this with Fernando Mendoza's more traditional pocket-passer style. It also notes that even star quarterbacks like Mahomes, Allen, and Jackson faced struggles this past season when their supporting casts couldn't consistently elevate their play, emphasizing the need for a strong team around top-tier QBs. (438 characters)

Amon-Ra St. Brown's Dream Realized: Lions Head to Munich

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Detroit Lions WR Amon-Ra St. Brown expressed excitement as his team is confirmed to play in the 2026 NFL Munich Game. With his mother born in Germany and a significant German fan base, St. Brown stated it's a 'dream of mine to play a game in my mother’s home country.' He looks forward to showcasing Detroit football internationally. The Lions' opponent for the game, part of a record nine international games in 2026, is yet to be announced. (416 characters)

Jeremiyah Love Leads College Football in TDs, Eyes Top 2026 NFL Draft Spot

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Jeremiyah Love, a top prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft, showcased exceptional talent during his last two seasons at Notre Dame. He led all of college football with an impressive 35 rushing touchdowns and a total of 40 scrimmage touchdowns, solidifying his position as a potential top-10 pick. His prolific scoring ability makes him a highly anticipated talent for future NFL teams.

49ers Not Planning Mac Jones Trade, But Open to Offers

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The San Francisco 49ers currently do not plan to trade quarterback Mac Jones. However, the team acknowledges that a compelling offer could potentially sway their decision, indicating a degree of openness to moving the player under the right circumstances. This suggests his future with the team, while not actively being shopped, is not entirely secure.

2026 NFL Draft: PFF Breakdown of Alabama QB Ty Simpson

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Analyst Nick Akridge has provided a detailed breakdown of Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, utilizing PFF grades and various analytical tools. This analysis offers insights into Simpson's performance and potential as a prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft, evaluating his strengths and weaknesses based on advanced metrics.

Monday, February 23

Jonah Coleman's Efficient Game & Third-Down Reliability Project Well for NFL

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Jonah Coleman's game is highlighted as efficient and powerful, highly translatable to NFL success, particularly within zone-blocking schemes where he excels at gaining momentum and executing one-cut runs. The 2026 NFL Draft prospect also demonstrates significant third-down reliability, showcasing strong capabilities as both a receiver and a pass protector. His overall profile suggests a valuable asset for teams looking for a versatile back.

Jeremiyah Love Projects as First-Round RB with Impact in Run & Pass Game

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Jeremiyah Love is described as embodying the profile of a first-round running back, possessing an ideal frame, exceptional athleticism, strong coordination, and a distinct playmaker mentality. The 2026 NFL Draft prospect is noted for bringing true impact value across both the running and passing aspects of the game, making him a versatile and highly sought-after talent for NFL teams.

Former Packers QB Taylor Elgersma Invited to Throw at NFL Combine

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Free agent quarterback Taylor Elgersma, who spent three months on the Green Bay Packers' 90-player roster last summer, has been invited to throw at the NFL Scouting Combine. Elgersma will primarily assist scouts in evaluating draft-eligible wide receivers, tight ends, running backs, and defensive backs. The 6-foot-5, 227-pound QB hopes to catch the eye of an NFL team for a camp invitation. He went undrafted by the NFL after being first-team All-Canadian at Laurier University and played for the Packers in the preseason, completing 16 of 23 passes for 166 yards and a touchdown.

Philip Rivers' Son Gunner Commits to NC State, Continuing Family Legacy

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Eight-time NFL Pro Bowler and NC State legend Philip Rivers' son, four-star quarterback Gunner Rivers, has committed to the Wolfpack, sources confirm. Gunner's commitment continues a family legacy at NC State, where his father was a prominent figure before his illustrious NFL career with teams like the Indianapolis Colts. This move sees the next generation of Rivers talent heading to the same collegiate program, echoing his father's path.

Free Agent QB Malik Willis Expected to Sign with Arizona Cardinals

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Free agent quarterback Malik Willis is reportedly expected to sign with the Arizona Cardinals, according to Tony Pauline. This move would be an interesting decision for the Cardinals, potentially influenced by Mike LaFleur's insight from his brother Matt. Willis, who spent his last two years as a backup for the Green Bay Packers, has a 2-1 record, 972 passing yards, six touchdowns, and no interceptions in a small sample size. The question remains regarding the contract size, with speculation around a two-year, $60-70 million deal if the Cardinals and Dolphins compete for him.

QB Tyler Huntley's Return to Cleveland Browns Makes Sense in Free Agency

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Quarterback Tyler Huntley's return to the Cleveland Browns is being considered a sensible move in free agency. After being released by Cleveland last year, Huntley returned to the Baltimore Ravens, playing five games (two starts) with Todd Monken as his offensive coordinator. He completed 78% of his passes for 426 yards and two touchdowns, also rushing for 151 yards in 2025. Huntley, who has a 7-9 record in 16 career starts, offers a veteran presence and familiarity with Monken, potentially providing support to Shedeur Sanders or competing in a seemingly open quarterback room.

Colts QB Anthony Richardson Expected to Request Trade This Offseason

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Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson is likely to request a trade this offseason, which the team is expected to grant. After a 'rollercoaster' 2024 season, the Colts signed Daniel Jones to compete for the starting job. Richardson, a polarizing player due to his low floor and inability to stay healthy, is seen as a potential elite backup or a project for teams like Cleveland, the Jets, Minnesota, or Miami. Despite historically bad completion percentages, he has shown 'truly special' plays that are worth betting on if he can stay healthy. He's expected to fetch a conditional Day 3 pick.

Colts and Daniel Jones Begin Multi-Year Extension Talks Amid Injury Concerns

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The Indianapolis Colts and quarterback Daniel Jones have begun negotiations on a multi-year contract extension, with face-to-face meetings anticipated this week. Jones, who signed a one-year, $14 million deal in 2025, is seeking a long-term commitment after leading the Colts to an 8-5 record with 3,101 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, and eight interceptions before tearing his Achilles late in the season. The franchise or transition tags are also options due to his injury history, which includes a torn ACL in 2023. His ability to return for the 2026 season start is uncertain, but the Colts are high on his future under Shane Steichen.

Robert Woods Joins Rams Coaching Staff as Assistant Wide Receivers Coach

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Recently retired wide receiver Robert Woods has rejoined the Los Angeles Rams as an assistant wide receivers coach, less than a week after officially retiring as a Ram. Woods, who played five of his 12 NFL seasons with the Rams (2017-21) under Sean McVay, will now embark on his coaching career. He finished his playing career with the Texans and Steelers, but signed a one-day contract to retire with the Rams. Woods brings 12 seasons of NFL experience and familiarity with McVay's offense, working directly with top receivers like Puka Nacua and Davante Adams.

Falcons Franchise Tag TE Kyle Pitts, Aim for Long-Term Extension by Mid-July

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The Atlanta Falcons have officially franchise tagged TE Kyle Pitts for the 2026 season, securing him on a one-year deal projected over $16 million. The team aims to negotiate a long-term extension by mid-July, with a potential trade if no agreement is reached. Pitts, 25, is coming off a resurgent 2025 season with career-highs of 88 receptions, 928 yards (second among TEs), and five touchdowns, despite shaky QB play. This move removes him as a marquee free agent, with the Falcons committed to building around him.