Player news from trusted outlets
Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.
Josh Jacobs is included in the top predictions for anytime touchdown props for the upcoming Wild Card weekend. He is considered a strong contender to score a touchdown in his team's playoff game. This forecast positions him among the elite players expected to make a significant scoring contribution in the opening round of the postseason, drawing attention from both analysts and fans.
Christian McCaffrey is prominently featured among the top predictions for anytime touchdown props heading into the Wild Card weekend. He is considered a leading candidate to score a touchdown in his team's crucial playoff matchup. This projection highlights his expected impact and scoring potential in the initial round of the postseason, placing him alongside other key offensive threats anticipated to find the end zone. Bettors and fantasy analysts are closely watching his performance outlook.
Aaron Rodgers is poised to earn significant playoff incentives, including roster bonuses and Super Bowl escalators, directly linked to deep postseason runs. He remains a focal point in NFL discussions, with questions about his current performance and what he has left to show in the upcoming playoffs. Rodgers also clearly enjoyed his change of scenery after moving to the Steelers, taking another shot at the Jets with his latest Mike Tomlin comments. His financial rewards are tied to playoff success.
Davante Adams (hamstring) has no designation for Saturday's wild-card game at Carolina, clearing him to return to action. This marks his first game since Week 15, when he aggravated his hamstring, causing him to miss the final three regular season contests. Before his absence, Adams was an NFL leader with 14 touchdown catches. His red-zone prowess is expected to be a key factor for the Los Angeles Rams as they begin their postseason run.
Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard has reiterated his long-term belief in Daniel Jones, stating confidence that Jones can be the franchise quarterback 'near and long term.' Ballard also confirmed a 'mutual' interest in a new contract with Jones, despite the quarterback's torn Achilles injury. Jones became an unrestricted free agent at the conclusion of his first year in Indianapolis, with the organization signaling continued commitment amidst ongoing discussions about his future.
Jaylen Warren (illness) did not practice Thursday, marking a 'DNP' to start the practice week. His status is now under monitoring ahead of Monday night's playoff opener against the Texans. The running back has two additional opportunities to practice before the Pittsburgh Steelers assign game designations for the upcoming contest on Saturday.
Sam Darnold is a topic of discussion in a recent NFL mailbag, with readers questioning 'which Sam Darnold will show' during the upcoming playoffs. The article addresses expectations for his performance as the postseason approaches.
Legendary quarterback Tom Brady offered extensive analysis on NFL playoff topics, including his takes on every Wild Card matchup. He discussed the 49ers' comeback struggles, the Eagles' Super Bowl repeat potential, and debated the MVP race between Drake Maye and Matthew Stafford. Brady also assessed whether the Bills' season is 'Super Bowl or Bust' for Josh Allen and previewed the Bears vs. Packers rematch. Additionally, he recounted his near absence from the iconic 'Tuck Rule Game', providing insights into the historic moment.
Bills TE Dalton Kincaid (knee) remained limited in practice Thursday, consistent with his Wednesday status. Despite the ongoing limitation, there's currently no indication he will miss Sunday's playoff opener against the Jaguars. The team's final injury report on Friday is expected to provide definitive clarity on his availability and potential injury designation for the upcoming contest.
Bears WR Rome Odunze has no injury designation for Saturday's wild-card game against the Packers, confirming his return. He missed five consecutive games since Week 13 due to a foot stress fracture, experiencing a late setback before Week 15. Following a full practice Thursday, Odunze is set to play. He started the season strong with 5.0 catches, 74 yards, and 1.3 TDs over his first four games, but production later dipped to 3.0 catches, 45.6 yards, and 0.1 TDs. His snap count is TBD, making him a risky fantasy option.
Rams QB Matthew Stafford is an NFL MVP finalist and currently the favorite to win. His candidacy is central to an intense debate, with Tom Brady and Colin Cowherd discussing his merits against Drake Maye. Cowherd notably stated the MVP race "isn't a close race," strongly implying Stafford's lead. NFL staff have made their final call on this razor-thin MVP contest after two historic seasons.
Patriots QB Drake Maye is an NFL MVP finalist, though Matthew Stafford is currently favored. The race is described as razor-thin, sparking intense debate between figures like Tom Brady and Colin Cowherd, with Cowherd asserting it's "not a close race." NFL staff have made their final call on this tightest MVP contest in years, highlighting Maye's candidacy as a key point in recent commentary.
Bills QB Josh Allen is under intense pressure, with Tom Brady and Colin Cowherd debating if this season is "Super Bowl or Bust" for him. The discussion stems from Buffalo's seven consecutive playoff appearances without a Super Bowl win. Additionally, playoff success can significantly boost player earnings through various incentives, including roster bonuses and Super Bowl escalators, adding another layer to the high stakes of the postseason.
Eagles QB Jalen Hurts is deemed the ideal leader for the team, his unique football journey and experiences having perfectly molded him for the role, showcasing his resilience. Beyond his leadership, playoff success can significantly boost his earnings through various incentives, including roster bonuses and Super Bowl escalators, adding financial stakes to his postseason performance.
Washington Commanders cornerback Marshon Lattimore was arrested in suburban Cleveland on Wednesday for carrying a concealed weapon, according to police records. The Washington organization is aware of the arrest, which could have significant implications for the player and the team, as details continue to emerge regarding the incident.
Los Angeles Rams right guard Kevin Dotson will not play in the wild-card round against the Panthers. Dotson sustained an ankle injury in Week 16, and his absence will impact the Rams' offensive line in the upcoming playoff matchup.
Chicago Bears wide receiver DJ Moore has no injury designation for Saturday's wild-card game against the Packers, confirming he is ready to play. Moore participated in a full practice Thursday after being limited earlier in the week due to a knee issue, clearing him for action. This news comes as his recent celebration, involving a foam cheese grater hat, has added a new element to the intense Packers-Bears rivalry, further highlighting the competition between the two NFC North foes.
Tom Brady and Colin Cowherd recently previewed the upcoming playoff rematch between the Chicago Bears and the Green Bay Packers. The discussion centered on whether Caleb Williams and the Bears, who split their regular-season series with the Packers, could secure a victory in this crucial third matchup.
Former Dallas Cowboys legend Jason Witten has been hired by the University of Oklahoma, joining Brent Venables' Sooners staff as the new tight ends coach. This appointment marks Witten's first collegiate coaching job, transitioning from his illustrious playing career into the coaching ranks at the NCAA level.
Former Atlanta Falcons franchise quarterback Matt Ryan is being interviewed for a newly established position within the organization: "president of football." Owner Arthur Blank confirmed the interview process on Thursday, indicating Ryan is among several candidates being considered for this significant front-office role.
