Player news from trusted outlets
Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.
Denver Broncos guard Quinn Meinerz was instrumental in the team's offensive line achieving the top spot in the final 2025 NFL offensive line rankings. His performance, alongside tackle Garett Bolles, helped power the Broncos to claim this prestigious recognition, highlighting his significant contribution to the unit's success throughout the season.
Denver Broncos quarterbacks coach and pass game coordinator Davis Webb is scheduled to interview virtually with the Las Vegas Raiders for their head coaching vacancy on Wednesday. Webb, 30, has been on Sean Payton's staff for three seasons. A 2017 third-round pick, he appeared in two NFL games before transitioning to coaching in 2023. This marks the Raiders' first head coach interview since firing Pete Carroll.
Bears QB Caleb Williams expressed strong confidence in his readiness for postseason action, stating he is "built for these moments" due to his mentality and experience in big games. Williams highlighted his ability to provide a spark and adapt to team needs, whether passing or running. He notably led the Bears to a game-winning touchdown in Week 16 against the Packers, one of six late-game victories for the team this season.
Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson expressed confidence in QB Caleb Williams, stating he's "built for these moments" and has consistently played his best football when the team needed it most. Johnson noted Williams' experience in numerous big games, including a Week 16 win over the Packers. While Johnson might prefer less dramatic outcomes, he values Williams' ability to deliver in high-pressure situations as they embark on their playoff journey.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba earned a spot on the PFF All-Pro Team for the 2025 season. His inclusion highlights his significant contributions and performance throughout the year, as recognized by PFF's grading system.
Justin Jefferson experienced a disappointing 2025 fantasy season, failing to meet expectations. Unlike other receivers who surprised, Jefferson struggled to get going, impacting his fantasy production significantly throughout the year.
George Pickens was the biggest surprise at wide receiver for fantasy football in 2025, emerging as the Dallas Cowboys' top option. His performance exceeded expectations, making him a key fantasy asset for the team throughout the season.
Reports indicate that Matt Ryan never intended to balance his CBS role with a potential position as the Atlanta Falcons' president of football operations. Sources confirm Ryan would be fully focused on the Falcons if he takes the job, emphasizing the importance of being present and engaged. This approach contrasts with Tom Brady's current dual roles. Ryan's executive skills are yet to be proven, but his commitment to the role is clear.
Carolina Panthers wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan has been awarded PFF's Rookie of the Year. The decision was detailed by Trevor Sikkema, highlighting McMillan's performance throughout his inaugural season and justifying his selection over other contenders for the prestigious award.
Los Angeles Rams QB Matthew Stafford is focused on ball security for the upcoming playoff game against the Panthers, following a Week 13 loss where he committed three turnovers (two interceptions, one fumble). He stated, "I'd like not to throw it to their team," and acknowledged the Panthers' defense is improved with Jaycee Horn. This comes as Stafford recently received a significant MVP endorsement from Tom Brady, was recognized as a 'big winner' in Madden NFL 26 ratings, and included on Chris Broussard's FINAL MVP Ballot for the 2025/26 season.
Brandon Aiyuk's future with the San Francisco 49ers appears uncertain, with former teammate Jon Feliciano expressing bafflement over the wide receiver's situation. Aiyuk had contract guarantees voided earlier this season due to infractions and seems poised to depart San Francisco this offseason, despite signing a four-year, $120 million extension last summer. Feliciano described Aiyuk's current absence as a "complete 180" from the selfless player he knew, who posted career-best numbers in 2023 with 75 receptions for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns.
Former San Francisco 49ers guard Jon Feliciano, who last played for the team in 2023 and missed the 2024 season with a knee injury, expressed his confusion regarding ex-teammate Brandon Aiyuk's current situation. Feliciano stated that Aiyuk's absence and apparent disengagement are a "complete 180" from the selfless, team-oriented player he knew, who was praised for his blocking and commitment. He noted that many current and former teammates share his bewilderment over the star receiver's status.
Following the Ravens' firing of HC John Harbaugh, QB Lamar Jackson's future in Baltimore is under scrutiny due to a substantial $74.5 million cap hit for the 2026 season, with discussions to retain him ongoing. Jackson, who missed this year's playoffs, is viewed as a top-tier asset for any new coaching staff. He boasts two MVP awards, 22,608 passing yards, 187 passing touchdowns, 6,522 rushing yards, and 35 rushing scores. Despite missing four games this season with hamstring and back injuries, he delivered strong performances when healthy, including a 238-yard, three-touchdown effort in Week 18.
Las Vegas Raiders minority owner Tom Brady has officially expanded his role to lead football operations with GM John Spytek, including the head coach search. This creates a clear conflict of interest with his Fox analyst position, from which he's been urged to step down. Brady recently picked Matthew Stafford for NFL MVP. He also released his latest top 10 teams for Week 18, featuring the Broncos, Patriots, and Seahawks, noting a clear No. 1 and believing the gap between No. 10 and 1 is tight. His past influence was linked to the Raiders' 'lost 2025 season.'
The Las Vegas Raiders have formally requested an interview with Denver Broncos quarterbacks coach and pass game coordinator Davis Webb for their vacant head coaching position. This marks the first head coaching interview for the 30-year-old Webb, who previously spent six seasons in the NFL as a backup quarterback. During his three seasons with the Broncos, he has been instrumental in working with quarterbacks such as Russell Wilson and Bo Nix.
Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert was a subject of debate among analysts Nick Wright, Kevin Wildes, Chris Broussard, and Danny Parkins, who discussed whether a win holds more significance for Herbert compared to New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye.
New England Patriots QB Drake Maye was named a 'big winner' in Madden NFL 26 ratings and included on Chris Broussard's FINAL MVP Ballot for 2025/26. Despite this, Tom Brady notably selected Matthew Stafford over Maye for MVP. Maye also featured in Nick Wright's QB hierarchy for Wild Card Weekend, and his win significance was debated against Justin Herbert.
Jacksonville Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence was listed by analyst Nick Wright as part of his quarterback hierarchy entering the upcoming Wild Card Weekend, placing him among other notable signal-callers like Drake Maye and Josh Allen.
Buffalo Bills QB Josh Allen is under significant pressure to lead his team to a Super Bowl win this season, a topic debated by analysts. He was also included in Nick Wright's QB hierarchy entering the Wild Card Weekend, highlighting his prominent standing among league quarterbacks.
Chicago Bears coach Ben Johnson and QB Caleb Williams are in agreement that the 24-year-old signal caller is "built for these moments" ahead of Saturday's NFC Wild Card matchup against the Packers. Separately, it was noted that John Morton had big shoes to fill as Lions offensive coordinator following Johnson's earlier departure.
