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Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.
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.
With Fred Warner (ankle) out until the NFC Championship and Tatum Bethune (groin) sidelined for the season, veteran linebacker Eric Kendricks, 33, will step in as the San Francisco 49ers' starting middle linebacker. Kendricks, who joined the practice squad in late November after seemingly retiring, has appeared in three games with one start. Coach Kyle Shanahan expressed "real confidence" in Kendricks, noting his experience and recent performance. Kendricks' past playoff performance against the 49ers in 2020, where he intercepted Jimmy Garoppolo, notably influenced Shanahan's offensive strategy. He is set to start in Philadelphia.
Bo Nix concluded a 14-3 season, starting every game for the Broncos. This follows a 10-7 season where he also started every game, bringing his total to 24 wins in his first two NFL seasons (two 17-game seasons). This achievement ties a record set by Russell Wilson, who also had 24 wins in his first two seasons (two 16-game seasons) with the Seahawks. Nix, drafted in 2024, has exceeded expectations, helping the Broncos become winners after their prior struggles. He lost his playoff debut last year.
Russell Wilson's record of 24 wins in his first two NFL seasons (2012-2013 with the Seahawks, achieved in two 16-game seasons) has been tied by Bo Nix. Wilson also secured four postseason victories during his initial two years. The article notes that the Broncos, who invested heavily in Wilson via trade and contract, are now moving on from his 'disastrous two years' with the team, with Nix exceeding expectations where Wilson did not.
Shedeur Sanders addressed his relationship with former coach Kevin Stefanski amidst quarterback decisions for the Browns. His future is unclear following Stefanski's firing, as GM Andrew Berry prepares to detail the offseason QB plan.
Tom Brady is expected to influence the Las Vegas Raiders' head coach search post-Pete Carroll's firing. He also revealed his 2025 NFL MVP pick, including Drake Maye in the conversation. Brady's continued involvement in strategic decisions and league insights remains prominent.
Matt Ryan is reportedly expected to be hired by the Atlanta Falcons as President of Football Operations, marking a significant return for the franchise icon to a key front-office position.
Matthew Stafford is listed as an MVP candidate in Barnwell's NFL award predictions, with analysis questioning if he could secure the league's highest individual honor. The Los Angeles Rams quarterback is placed among top contenders, including Drake Maye. Additionally, with the NFL playoffs approaching, Tom Brady recently revealed his answer to the significant question of who will win the 2025 NFL Most Valuable Player Award, with Stafford being a key player in the discussion.
Drake Maye is a strong MVP and Rookie of the Year candidate, exceeding expectations with a 14-3 record for the Patriots. His sophomore season shattered team records in completion percentage (72%), yards per attempt (8.9), and passer rating (113.5), placing him among elite company like Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes. Maye also tied a record for most games with a 100+ passer rating before age 24.
Myles Garrett is the clear Defensive Player of the Year frontrunner and has set the new single-season sack record. His dominant performance solidifies his status as a top force in the league as the NFL playoffs approach.
Tua Tagovailoa expressed openness to a 'fresh start' elsewhere in 2026 following his benching for the Miami Dolphins' final three games. He stated, 'I would be good with it,' signaling a potential departure from the team.
Maxx Crosby expressed strong dissatisfaction with being sidelined for the Raiders' final two games, stating he 'didn't love the idea of not playing football.' This highlights his commitment and frustration with his inactive status, despite the team's decision.
DK Metcalf is reinstated after a two-game suspension, eligible for the Jan. 12 wild-card game. He recorded 59 catches for 850 yards and six TDs in 15 games, providing a crucial downfield threat for the Steelers.
Puka Nacua was featured in the 2025 NFL Team of the Week Recap as a top earner, recognized for his season-long performance. The recap provides insights into potential All-Pro selections, with Nacua's strong showing indicating he could be a candidate for end-of-season honors.
Jonathan Taylor was highlighted in the 2025 NFL Team of the Week Recap as a top earner, leading the way among players recognized for their season-long performance. The season-long recap provides clues for potential All-Pro selections, with Taylor's consistent presence suggesting strong consideration for end-of-season honors.
Philip Rivers believes he can coach at the NFL level, stating 'I can coach at this level,' though he clarifies there's 'nothing concrete' regarding team interest. He expressed confidence in his abilities despite downplaying current rumors.
Kirk Cousins joins a discussion on NFL coaching vacancies, reflecting on the Falcons' season. The conversation covers the impact of 'Black Monday' firings and the future direction of various teams.
Titans QB Cam Ward suffered an AC joint sprain in his right shoulder but will not require surgery. He is expected to be fine for the offseason program after starting all 17 games, throwing for 3,169 yards, 15 TDs, and 7 INTs.
Dallas Cowboys Pro Bowler Tyler Smith is seeking clarity on his positional role for the upcoming season. Known for his performance at left guard, Smith is in discussions with Brian Schottenheimer as the team explores potentially moving him to tackle to address roster needs. The meeting aims to determine his primary position, ensuring he contributes effectively wherever the team requires.
