Player news from trusted outlets
Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.
Coach Ben Johnson has highlighted a critical area for the Chicago Bears to address next season: enhancing the chemistry between quarterback Caleb Williams and his pass catchers. Johnson believes this improvement is essential for the team to build upon its successful season and further elevate its offensive performance, ensuring Williams can maximize his potential with his receiving corps.
Quarterback Caleb Williams' significant development was identified as the most crucial factor contributing to the Chicago Bears' highly successful season, marking his progress under center as a cornerstone achievement. Despite this success, coach Ben Johnson emphasized that improving the chemistry between Williams and his pass catchers is a key area the Bears need to focus on for the upcoming season to further enhance their overall performance.
San Francisco 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan stated Wednesday that he expects quarterback Mac Jones to be with the team for the 2026 season. GM John Lynch also praised Jones, who went 5-3 as a starter, completing 69.6 percent of his passes for 7.4 YPA, providing a fantastic return on his two-year, $8.4 million contract. While Jones may not be content to return as an underpaid backup, his contract gives the 49ers leverage for potential trade or raise discussions.
Texans WR Tank Dell is anticipated to be ready for the offseason program, according to GM Nick Caserio. Dell missed the entire 2025 season after sustaining extensive damage to his left knee (ACL, MCL, LCL, and meniscus) in December 2024, requiring at least two surgeries. Caserio expressed cautious optimism but acknowledged uncertainty regarding Dell's performance post-injury, noting it's an "impossible projection" given the rarity of such a severe return. Dell, 26, is currently considered a late-round flier in early best-ball drafts.
John Harbaugh has been named the new head coach of the New York Giants and expressed excitement about coaching the team. The immediate focus is on Harbaugh's ability to elevate New York into a contender. Specifically, questions have arisen regarding his capacity to develop and significantly improve quarterback Jaxson Dart's performance, which will be crucial for the team's success under the new coaching regime.
Former Steelers franchise quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has weighed in on Pittsburgh's coaching search, publicly expressing his preference for Mike McCarthy to fill the team's vacancy. Roethlisberger also stated he would actively encourage Aaron Rodgers to consider a return to the Steelers, sharing his comprehensive thoughts on the team's future direction and potential leadership under McCarthy's guidance.
Former Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has publicly stated he would encourage Aaron Rodgers to consider a return to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Roethlisberger shared his thoughts on Pittsburgh's ongoing coaching search, specifically mentioning his preference for Mike McCarthy to fill the team's coaching vacancy, and how Rodgers could fit into that vision for the franchise's future.
Jimmy Garoppolo is set to participate in his seventh conference championship game, a significant career milestone that ties him for the third-most all-time. This achievement highlights his consistent presence in deep playoff runs throughout his career. The Los Angeles Rams quarterback continues to make history with his postseason appearances, showcasing remarkable longevity and success in reaching critical playoff stages.
An agent's analysis suggests the Houston Texans should be 'all in' on securing a new contract for Will Anderson Jr. The team faces significant decisions regarding its two former first-round picks, with Anderson's extension appearing to be a more straightforward priority compared to potential negotiations for C.J. Stroud. This recommendation emphasizes the importance of locking down Anderson's future with the franchise promptly.
Buffalo Bills QB Josh Allen may require offseason surgery on his right foot, as confirmed by GM Brandon Beane. The procedure is not expected to impact his availability for OTAs. Allen initially sustained the foot injury in Week 16 and has been dealing with lingering soreness, in addition to knee and finger issues. The team remains focused on Allen's central role amidst their coaching search. Fantasy analysts advise caution for his 2026 draft stock despite past QB1 finishes.
Seattle Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald praised Jaxon Smith-Njigba, detailing what makes the receiver special. In an interview with FOX Sports, Macdonald shared insights into his coaching style and specifically highlighted Smith-Njigba's unique attributes, suggesting a significant role and high expectations for the player within the team's offensive scheme.
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow was cited as an AFC contemporary whose impressive second-year campaign is being used as a benchmark to compare against Drake Maye's recent breakout sophomore season. This comparison highlights Burrow's early career success as a standard for emerging NFL quarterbacks, placing him among elite company.
Quarterback Lamar Jackson was referenced as an AFC contemporary whose impressive second-year campaign serves as a benchmark for comparison with Drake Maye's recent breakout sophomore season. This highlights Jackson's early career success as a standard for emerging NFL quarterbacks, placing him among elite company.
The Atlanta Falcons have requested interviews for their General Manager position with multiple candidates, including Josh Williams, the director of scouting and football operations for the San Francisco 49ers. Williams was previously a finalist for GM roles with the Jacksonville and Miami franchises. The Falcons are moving forward with GM interviews after hiring a president of football and head coach.
Fantasy analysts Matt Harmon and Scott Pianowski discussed draft strategies for quarterbacks Josh Allen and Bo Nix in 2026. Harmon suggests waiting on QB due to depth, while acknowledging Allen's appeal. Allen finished with 3,668 passing yards, 25 TDs, and 14 rushing TDs. Nix had 3,931 passing yards, 25 TDs, and 5 rushing TDs before an ankle injury. Both are projected as top fantasy QBs.
Drake Thomas is becoming an essential figure for the Seattle Seahawks' defense, drawing increasing acclaim alongside All-Pro linebacker Ernest Jones. His strong performance is noted as a crucial element for the team's top-ranked unit under Mike Macdonald, contributing significantly to their defensive success.
Garett Bolles delivered a strong performance in the Broncos' playoff win, protecting Bo Nix's blind side throughout the game. Despite facing a tough Bills defense, Bolles allowed zero sacks and only two QB hits, with his pass protection particularly excelling in crucial late-game situations. His consistent play was vital in securing the victory.
Jets running back Breece Hall has been recognized as the New York Jets' highest-graded pending free agent for the 2025 campaign. This assessment is based on his overall PFF grade, highlighting his significant value as he approaches free agency. The report identifies him as the best free agent by PFF grade from the 2025 class for his team, underscoring his importance to the franchise.
Davis Webb is listed among the early names to watch for the Buffalo Bills. The team's primary focus remains on Josh Allen, but Webb is noted alongside Joe Brady and Brian Daboll as individuals being observed in the current team landscape.
Free agent QB Malik Willis is a top target for the Miami Dolphins and Cleveland Browns, with a projected value of $10-50 million. The Dolphins, with new GM Jon-Eric Sullivan and HC Jeff Hafley (familiar with Willis from Green Bay), are considering him a potential 2026 starter amid Tua Tagovailoa's uncertain future. Willis, a former Titans third-round pick, showed dual-threat ability, completing 79% of passes for 972 yards, 6 TDs, 0 INTs, and adding 261 rushing yards with 3 scores in 11 games (3 starts) for the Packers. Last season, he completed 85.7% for 422 yards and 3 TDs in 4 appearances (1 start).
