Player news from trusted outlets
Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.
Former Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan is set to formally interview later this week for the newly created president of football role with his former team. Ryan, the leading candidate, would give up his CBS TV analyst position if hired, resolving a potential conflict. The Falcons are also interviewing 49ers' Josh Williams for the position, and must comply with the Rooney Rule before making an official hire.
The Atlanta Falcons have requested an interview with Josh Williams, the San Francisco 49ers' director of scouting and football operations, for their new president of football position. Williams is completing his 15th season in the NFL, all spent with the 49ers, having worked his way up from an assistant in the scouting department to his current role.
Miami Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa expressed openness to a 'fresh start' with another team in 2026 following Miami's season-ending loss. While not formally requesting a trade, he stated he 'would be good with it.' Head coach Mike McDaniel confirmed a 2026 QB competition, potentially involving rookie Quinn Ewers. Tagovailoa was benched in Week 16 after 14 appearances, completing 260 of 384 passes for 2,660 yards, 20 TDs, and an NFL-leading 15 INTs. Miami faces a significant $99.2M cap hit if cut before June 1, making a trade challenging for the 27-year-old.
San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey has seen a notable increase in his Madden NFL 26 ratings. The latest update for Weeks 16 and 17 recognized McCaffrey as a player whose performance led to a rise in his in-game attributes. This positive adjustment reflects his strong on-field play and continued impact, solidifying his status as a top-tier player within the virtual NFL landscape.
Anthony Richardson's first three NFL seasons have been marred by injuries and inconsistent performance, leading to an uncertain future with the Colts. Owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon expressed feeling "horrible" for his injuries, while indicating decisions on quarterbacks are left to the GM and coach. It's considered unlikely the Colts will exercise Richardson’s fifth-year option, especially after Daniel Jones, brought in as competition, beat him out for QB1 before suffering his own season-ending injuries.
Philadelphia Eagles right tackle Lane Johnson is expected to return to practice this week after missing the final seven games of the regular season with a foot injury. His return is a significant boost for the team, which went 3-4 in his absence. His availability for Sunday's playoff game against the 49ers will be determined by his performance in practice.
Jihaad Campbell of the Philadelphia Eagles was recognized as one of the first-round standouts after the conclusion of the 2025 regular season. His performance highlighted him among the league's top rookies.
Colston Loveland of the Chicago Bears was identified as one of the first-round standouts following the 2025 regular season. His performance earned him recognition among the top rookies in the league.
The Carolina Panthers have released wide receiver Hunter Renfrow to make room for David Moore ahead of the NFC Wild Card game. Renfrow, who was attempting a comeback after missing the previous season, recorded 15 catches for 89 yards in the first six weeks but had been inactive for the last 11 games.
The Carolina Panthers have activated wide receiver David Moore from injured reserve for the upcoming NFC Wild Card game. Moore had been sidelined since Week 4 due to an elbow injury, having recorded one catch for five yards and one carry for 12 yards prior. His activation comes after the team waived Hunter Renfrow to create a roster spot.
Micah Parsons was traded away from the Dallas Cowboys a week before the season began. This move was highlighted in the context of the Cowboys allowing an NFL-worst 30.1 points per game under defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, who was subsequently fired after one season. Parsons is now with the Green Bay Packers.
Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels struggled with injuries, contributing to the team's stunning regression. The onus is now on Adam Peters to restock the roster and for the team's youngsters to improve moving forward.
49ers WR Ricky Pearsall re-aggravated a PCL injury, keeping him out of Week 18 against the Seahawks, according to HC Kyle Shanahan. Pearsall initially missed six games mid-season with the knee issue, returned for four, but then missed two of the final three games. His status for Sunday's Wild Card game versus the Eagles is currently uncertain. The team will provide updates on his availability throughout the week.
Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders expressed confidence in his ability to be the starter, though his status for 2026 is uncertain following coach Kevin Stefanski's firing. With Deshaun Watson still on the roster, GM Andrew Berry plans to explore the quarterback market. Sanders, who went 3-4 in his rookie starts, completed 56.6% of passes for 1,400 yards, 7 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, showing "some really good things" but remains a work in progress.
Following the firing of their head coach, the Arizona Cardinals are now confronted with a significant decision regarding the future of quarterback Kyler Murray. The organization's next move will determine Murray's status with the team as they navigate a pivotal offseason.
Quarterback Daniel Jones expressed his desire to return to the Indianapolis Colts for the 2026 season, stating he "loved being here." Jones led the team to a 7-1 start before suffering a torn Achilles in early December, with coach Shane Steichen praising his pre-injury play as "phenomenal." Despite a history of injuries, Jones expects to be ready for training camp, and the Colts are reportedly looking to bring him back after his one-year deal.
Tyler Shough has been honored for his impressive performance in his inaugural professional season, securing a place on the 2025 NFL Rookie Team of the Year. According to advanced PFF data, Shough distinguished himself as one of the best players at his position throughout the 2025 NFL season, demonstrating significant promise and skill. This recognition underscores his strong start and potential impact.
Tetairoa McMillan has been recognized for an outstanding debut season, earning a spot on the 2025 NFL Rookie Team of the Year. Utilizing advanced PFF data, McMillan was identified as one of the top performers at his position during the 2025 NFL season, showcasing exceptional talent and significant impact among his rookie class. This honor highlights his immediate contribution and promising future in the league.
San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner is currently sidelined with a serious ankle injury and is not expected to return to action until the NFC Championship game. In his absence, Eric Kendricks has stepped in at middle linebacker, replacing Tatum Bethune, who is out for the season.
San Francisco 49ers linebacker Tatum Bethune has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a groin injury. Bethune, who had been filling in for Fred Warner, will now be replaced by Eric Kendricks at the middle linebacker position.
