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NFL News

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

Saturday, January 24

Elijah Moore Poised for Broncos Debut in AFC Championship Game

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Broncos practice squad wide receiver Elijah Moore, who previously aided the team with insights against his former Bills squad, may be elevated to play in the AFC Championship Game against the Patriots. This potential debut is prompted by Troy Franklin's hamstring injury. Moore, a talented 2021 second-round pick, has yet to consistently produce at his talent level across stints with the Jets, Browns, and Bills, but the Broncos are eager to see his impact on Sunday.

Davante Adams Seeks Elusive Super Bowl Berth in Fifth NFC Title Game

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Rams wide receiver Davante Adams, a 12th-year pro, is making his fifth attempt to reach the Super Bowl after four previous NFC Championship losses with the Packers. The 33-year-old, who signed a two-year, $25 million guaranteed deal with the Rams, led the NFL with 14 touchdown catches despite missing three games due to a hamstring injury. He returned for the playoffs, making a key catch in the Divisional Round. Adams missed the Rams' 38-37 loss to the Seahawks in Week 16, but coach Sean McVay notes his presence elevates the team's energy as they aim to 'finish it off' and secure a Super Bowl berth.

Seahawks' Cooper Kupp Expected to Excel in NFC Championship

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Seattle Seahawks veteran receiver Cooper Kupp, a Super Bowl MVP, is projected for a strong performance in the NFC Championship Game against the Rams. Despite QB Sam Darnold's oblique injury limiting downfield throws, Kupp, a shifty slot receiver specializing in short yardage, caught five passes for 60 yards in the Divisional Round. Facing the Rams' zone coverage, he's expected to clear 29.5 receiving yards, with projections up to 44 yards. With other receivers potentially blanketed, Kupp is also considered a strong anytime touchdown threat for Darnold.

Giants QB Jaxson Dart Poised for Big Leap Under John Harbaugh

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Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart, an exciting rising sophomore, is generating significant hope in New York, especially with the arrival of new head coach John Harbaugh. Dart, who took over as starter after four games in 2025, completed 63.7% of his passes for 2,272 yards, 15 touchdowns, and five interceptions, adding 487 rushing yards and nine rushing touchdowns. His 5.2% big-time throw rate ranked eighth among quarterbacks. With the return of Malik Nabers and Cam Skattebo from injury, and Dart's aggressive deep passing style, he's eager to play for Harbaugh, expecting 'a whole lot of winning'.

Jarrett Stidham Steps Up as Broncos' Starting QB for AFC Championship

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Broncos backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham is thrust into the starting role for the AFC Championship Game against the Patriots, following QB1 Bo Nix's ankle injury. Stidham is expected to operate a conservative, pass-heavy playbook, with the Patriots likely focusing on stopping the run. Despite being a 'great unknown,' Stidham's projections include over 19.5 pass completions and over 200 passing yards. He's also noted for his 'sneaky wheels' and ability to escape pressure, making him a potential anytime touchdown threat, with positive injury updates for Broncos' receivers and centers.

Friday, January 23

Packers OL Rasheed Walker Arrested on Gun Charge at LaGuardia Airport

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Green Bay Packers offensive lineman Rasheed Walker was charged with two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon and criminal possession of a firearm. The charges stem from an incident at New York's LaGuardia Airport where Walker attempted to check in a bag containing a firearm.

Mahomes Reunites with Bieniemy as OC; Brady Recalls 2018 Playoff Advice

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Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is set to reunite with Eric Bieniemy, who has been hired as the team's new offensive coordinator, aiming to bolster the Chiefs' offensive strategy. Additionally, Tom Brady recently recalled the intense 2018 AFC Championship where the Patriots defeated the Chiefs, detailing how he went to the Chiefs locker room to offer advice to Mahomes after the game. This reunion with Bieniemy and reflection from Brady highlight key aspects of Mahomes' career and team dynamics.

Brady Recalls Wild 2018 AFC Championship; Discusses Playoff Matchups & QBs

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Tom Brady recently recalled the intense 2018 AFC Championship where the New England Patriots defeated the Kansas City Chiefs, detailing his visit to the Chiefs locker room to offer advice to Patrick Mahomes. Brady has also been actively discussing current NFL topics, including playoff matchups, the challenges of playing in Seattle and Denver, and sharing his thoughts on the NFL future of quarterbacks Jarrett Stidham, Drake Maye, Sam Darnold, and Fernando Mendoza. He also reflected on his first year with the Bucs and Bill Belichick's fumble preparation.

Marvin Mims Poised for More Snaps if Franklin is Out

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Denver Broncos wide receiver Marvin Mims could see an increased role in Sunday's AFC Championship Game against the Patriots if teammate Troy Franklin (hamstring) is out or limited. Franklin is listed as questionable, and his potential absence would elevate Mims to the third or fourth wide receiver spot, alongside Lil'Jordan Humphrey, impacting the Broncos' depth.

Lil'Jordan Humphrey Could See Increased Snaps for Broncos

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Denver Broncos wide receiver Lil'Jordan Humphrey could see an increased role in Sunday's AFC Championship Game against the Patriots if teammate Troy Franklin (hamstring) is out or limited. Franklin is listed as questionable, and his potential absence would elevate Humphrey to the third or fourth wide receiver spot, alongside Marvin Mims, impacting the Broncos' depth.

Broncos WR Troy Franklin Questionable for AFC Championship Game

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Denver Broncos wide receiver Troy Franklin (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Sunday's AFC Championship Game against the Patriots. He was limited in practice all week due to the issue and played only 13 snaps in the divisional-round win. His status will be confirmed closer to kickoff. If Franklin is out or limited, it could open up additional receiving snaps for Pat Bryant, Marvin Mims, and Lil'Jordan Humphrey, with Pat Bryant now cleared and expected to be the No. 2 WR.

Broncos WR Pat Bryant Cleared, Set for No. 2 Role in AFC Championship

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Denver Broncos wide receiver Pat Bryant (concussion) was a full participant in Thursday's practice and is off the final injury report, confirming he is on track to play against the Patriots in the AFC Championship on Sunday. This return is significant as he suffered his second concussion of the season last week. The rookie had begun to play a big role, catching three balls on Denver's first four offensive snaps in his last outing, and is now expected to serve as the team's No. 2 wide receiver.

Jaleel McLaughlin to Lead Broncos Backfield in AFC Championship

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Denver Broncos running back Jaleel McLaughlin is set to operate as one of the top two running backs for Sunday's AFC Championship Game against the Patriots, following J.K. Dobbins (foot) being ruled out. McLaughlin, alongside R.J. Harvey and Tyler Badie, will manage the Broncos' backfield duties against New England, stepping into a more prominent role due to Dobbins' continued absence.

Broncos RB J.K. Dobbins Ruled Out for AFC Championship

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Denver Broncos running back J.K. Dobbins (foot) has been officially ruled out for Sunday's AFC Championship Game against the Patriots. Dobbins, who sustained a foot injury requiring surgery in Week 10, returned to limited practices this week but is not yet ready for game action. In his absence, R.J. Harvey, Jaleel McLaughlin, and Tyler Badie will manage the Broncos' backfield duties. He would have a chance to play in Super Bowl LX on Feb. 8 if Denver advances.

Seahawks QB Sam Darnold Cleared for NFC Championship Game

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Seattle Seahawks QB Sam Darnold (oblique) has been cleared to play in Sunday's NFC Championship Game against the Rams, despite being limited in practice earlier this week. He carries no injury designation and is set to lead the No. 1 seed Seahawks. In the recent divisional-round win over the 49ers, Darnold was efficient, completing 12 of 17 passes for 124 yards, one touchdown, and no turnovers, achieving a 110.9 passer rating. He aims to overcome a history of turnovers against the Rams.

Broncos QB Bo Nix Suffers Fractured Ankle, Out for Season

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Denver Broncos QB Bo Nix has suffered a fractured ankle, sidelining him for the AFC Championship and the remainder of the season. This major injury significantly impacts the team's playoff aspirations, forcing Jarrett Stidham into the starting role. Oddsmakers initially estimated Nix's value at four points to the spread, but the line moved by six points post-injury, shifting the Broncos from favorites to underdogs. His absence is a substantial blow to Denver's Super Bowl hopes.

Philip Rivers Interviews for Bills Head Coach Role After Brief Comeback

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Former Colts QB Philip Rivers, 44, is interviewing for the Buffalo Bills' head coaching vacancy, a surprising move given his lack of college or NFL coaching experience. Rivers recently came out of retirement to play three games for the Colts in 2025 after a five-year absence and has been coaching high school since 2020. Latest odds suggest his return to the NFL as head coach is possible, and he's also considered a potential offensive coordinator candidate, marking an unexpected career transition.

Seahawks RB George Holani Activated from IR, Steps in as No. 2 Back

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Seattle Seahawks RB George Holani has been activated from Injured Reserve for Sunday's NFC Championship game against the Rams. He is expected to step in as the No. 2 running back with Zach Charbonnet out. While he adds depth to the backfield, it's anticipated he will receive only a handful of touches behind starter Kenneth Walker.

Seahawks TE Elijah Arroyo Activated from IR for NFC Championship

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Seattle Seahawks TE Elijah Arroyo has been activated from Injured Reserve for Sunday's NFC Championship game against the Rams. He is expected to play a bit role behind lead TE A.J. Barner, adding depth to the tight end room. The rookie averaged 11.9 yards per catch during the regular season.

Former Eagles DL Kevin Johnson Dies at 55; Death Ruled Homicide

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Former Philadelphia Eagles and Oakland Raiders defensive lineman Kevin Johnson, 55, tragically died from "blunt head trauma and stab wounds." His death has been ruled a homicide by a Los Angeles medical examiner, with police investigating. Johnson was found unconscious at a homeless encampment and was believed to be living there. He played three NFL seasons, recording 54 tackles and 7 sacks, and also had stints with the Patriots and Vikings before his career concluded in the 1990s.