Player news from trusted outlets
Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.
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.
Carolina Panthers guard Robert Hunt is now expected to return to the starting lineup for Saturday's critical playoff game against the Rams. Hunt has been sidelined since Week 2, having suffered a biceps tear that has kept him out for the majority of the regular season. His anticipated return is considered a significant boost for the Panthers' offensive line, providing much-needed reinforcement as the team prepares to kick off its postseason campaign.
Baker Mayfield is set to work with new coaches after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers fired offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard and QBs coach Thad Lewis. This comes as Mayfield enters the final year of his contract, with a potential extension able to lower his $39 million cap hit for 2026. Mayfield experienced a drop-off in performance post-bye, going from 13th to 18th in EPA per play, and dealt with a shoulder issue for most of the second half of the season. The team, which missed the playoffs, is looking for improved offensive production and needs more from Mayfield.
Kyler Murray's future with the Arizona Cardinals is uncertain, as the team considers trading him to free up $35 million in cap space before June 1. Murray's season was cut short by injuries, and the Cardinals finished 3-14, missing the playoffs, leading to head coach Jonathan Gannon's dismissal. While Murray's 0.05 EPA per play matched other top QBs, his season lacked variance. The Cardinals view moving on from Murray as a 'given' at this stage, making quarterback their top immediate need if a trade occurs.
George Pickens, who had his best season and is likely an All-Pro receiver, is a top priority for the Dallas Cowboys this offseason. His acquisition was deemed the 'steal of the offseason,' benefiting Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb, as Pickens led the team in target share and was third in receiving yards. Despite Dallas being over the cap, the team is expected to create space via cuts and restructures to retain Pickens, either through an extension or the franchise tag, making it highly unlikely he hits the open market.
The Miami Dolphins have fired head coach Mike McDaniel after two consecutive losing seasons. This decision leaves the team in search of a new coach and potentially a new quarterback, with Tua Tagovailoa's future with the team now uncertain following the coaching change. The team will be looking to rebuild its offensive leadership.
Detroit Lions offensive tackle Penei Sewell elevated his play in 2025, being recognized as one of the NFL's top offensive linemen. His exceptional performance led to him earning the prestigious PFF Protector of the Year award for the 2025 season, solidifying his status among the league's elite.
Myles Garrett has been awarded Defensive Player of the Year, capping off a record-breaking campaign. This recognition highlights his exceptional performance throughout the season.
Puka Nacua has been awarded PFF Offensive Player of the Year honors following his dominant 2025 season. Nacua is on a historic pace, achieving this recognition after only three NFL seasons, highlighting his significant impact and performance.
Rookie Harold Fannin Jr. quickly became a top fantasy contributor for the Cleveland Browns from the outset of the 2025 season, exceeding expectations with his performance.
T.J. Hockenson's fantasy production was hampered by the Minnesota Vikings' overall offensive struggles during the 2025 season. Despite his efforts, the team's offensive failures limited his impact.
Tom Brady reminisces about his inaugural playoff game in the 2001 Snow Bowl against the Las Vegas Raiders. He shares behind-the-scenes memories of this legendary matchup with the New England Patriots, marking a significant moment in his career.
Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice is currently facing serious domestic violence allegations. These accusations have been brought forward by his ex-girlfriend, prompting an immediate response from the Chiefs organization. The team has officially confirmed their awareness of the situation and is actively communicating with the NFL regarding the matter. As of now, the Chiefs have stated they will not provide any additional comment, indicating that further details are pending as both the league and the team continue to address these allegations.
San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner and his wife Sydney have welcomed their newborn daughter, Bella. This joyous occasion follows the birth of their son, Beau, who was born in March 2024. The family expands as Warner continues his NFL career.
The New Orleans Saints are fully committed to Tyler Shough as their starting quarterback for the 2026 season following his strong rookie performance. Shough impressed after taking over in Week 8 of the 2025 campaign, starting the final nine games and leading the team to a 5-4 record. In 10 appearances, he completed 225 of 325 passes for 2,384 yards, 10 touchdowns, and eight interceptions, adding 186 rushing yards and three scores on 45 attempts. Despite holding the No. 8 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Saints view Shough as a long-term solution, planning to bolster his supporting cast.
Seattle Seahawks TE Elijah Arroyo has been designated to return from Injured Reserve. The rookie tight end has been sidelined since Week 14 due to a knee injury but is now cleared to return to practice. Barring any setbacks, Arroyo is expected to be available for Seattle's playoff opener next week. His return will impact fellow TE A.J. Barner, who saw a route participation increase to 73% without Arroyo over the last four games, up from 66% when Arroyo was active.
Cleveland Browns DE Myles Garrett achieved PFF All-Pro honors for his elite 2025 season, leading edge defenders with a 92.7 PFF grade and 93.3 pass-rush grade. He shattered the NFL sack record with an astounding 23 sacks, solidifying his status as the league's top pass rusher. Garrett also received the PFF Dwight Stephenson Award, recognizing him as the NFL's best player regardless of position. A 2011 sack ruling change, which reportedly worked in his favor, was noted in relation to his record-breaking achievement.
Los Angeles Chargers RB Kimani Vidal is poised to step into the lead back role for Sunday night's Wild Card game against the Patriots. This opportunity arises if fellow running back Omarion Hampton, who did not practice Wednesday due to a significant ankle injury, is unable to play. Vidal would lead the backfield options for the Chargers in Hampton's absence.
Chargers RB Omarion Hampton (ankle) did not practice Wednesday, confirming his injury is a significant concern, not just rest. He hasn't practiced since his 22-touch Week 17 performance. Head Coach Jim Harbaugh stated Hampton is "doing everything and anything he can to get back." His status for Sunday's Wild Card game against the Patriots is uncertain. If Hampton is unavailable, Kimani Vidal is expected to step in as Los Angeles' lead back, alongside Hassan Haskins and Jaret Patterson.
