Over next two days, 32 teams will release 22 players per team - that's 704 mandatory roster transactions. A lot of dreams made and dashed.
What we learned: Brady plays, Goff struggles again.
1. Colin Kaepernick made it tougher for the 49ers to cut him. He directed an impressive 15-play touchdown drive in his first series that included 58 passing yards and 30 yards on the ground from Kaepernick. His next two drives in a quick-moving half were less successful, but Kaepernick ultimately showed off a stronger arm and better wheels than he did a year ago. He looked comfortable in Chip Kelly's offense and helped the offense score on two of three drives.
No one knows what Kelly is thinking, but he usually likes to have options at quarterback. Keeping Kaepernick on the roster gives him another talented player to groom. We'd guess that Kaepernick sticks, although Christian Ponder's quality performance in the fourth quarter could make the decision tougher. Rookie Jeff Driskel looks headed for the practice squad, if that.
2. We're glad that Tom Brady played the entire first half for the Patriots, if only to hear Bill Belichick's explanation for it afterward.
"You can't take insurance out on players," Belichick said. "You play football, you play football. I don't know how you get better playing football without playing football. You can stand around and talk about it all day, but I don't think that really makes you a better player. At some point you have to get out there and play."
The Patriots' starters, including Brady, looked like they needed the work. The team's timing was erratic for much of Brady's six series.
3. Rams rookie Jared Goff had another night to forget, marked by inaccurate throws and more trouble with turnovers. It was telling that coach Jeff Fisher said after the game that he's leaning toward making Sean Mannion the Rams' backup quarterback to start the year ahead of Goff, with Case Keenum as the starter. Fisher said that without even watching the game film from Thursday. He's seen enough all month to know Goff is not ready.
Goff finished the preseason completing 45 percent of his throws for for 232 yards (4.73 YPA), two touchdowns, two picks, two lost fumbles and too many sacks.
4. While Goff struggled, Broncos' first-round pick Paxton Lynch continued to show off his considerable skill set. He completed 13 of 22 passes for 214 yards, two touchdowns and a pick in Denver's finale. We'd be surprised if he doesn't start games this season.
5. The fourth week of the preseason can be useful as a springboard for players needing a confidence boost. After a disastrous preseason before Thursday, the Bears should be thrilled to see receiver Kevin White catch all four targets sent his way for 57 yards. That should give the team more confidence that White can handle his starting role heading into the season.
6. Ravens second-year receiver Breshad Perriman had a similarly encouraging night. Playing in his first game action as a pro after battling injuries, Perriman caught the first two passes of the game for 25 yards.
7. If not for Dak Prescott, Titans running back Derrick Henry might just be my Preseason MVP. He has jumped off the screen week after week, finishing out his preseason Thursday with 62 yards and a touchdown on seven carries.
8. It was great to see Cardinals receiver John Brown back on the field in game action after missing nearly the entire month of August with concussion issues.
9. Seahawks starting running back Thomas Rawls made his preseason debut, carrying the ball two times for seven yards. He looks ready to roll for Week 1, even if he is splitting carries with Christine Michael.
10. Jets quarterback Bryce Petty didn't get to audition for long for the team's backup job. He hurt his shoulder after six throws and will undergo an MRI after the game. Petty had more yards in six attempts (87) than second-round rookie Christian Hackenberg had in 31 attempts (54). That 1.7 yards per attempt for Hackenberg is a number we've never seen.
11. Kaepernick's protest of the national anthem was not done in isolation this week. His teammate Eric Reid kneeled next to Kaepernick during the anthem. Seahawks cornerback Jeremy Lane sat on the bench during the anthem in Oakland.
1. Colin Kaepernick made it tougher for the 49ers to cut him. He directed an impressive 15-play touchdown drive in his first series that included 58 passing yards and 30 yards on the ground from Kaepernick. His next two drives in a quick-moving half were less successful, but Kaepernick ultimately showed off a stronger arm and better wheels than he did a year ago. He looked comfortable in Chip Kelly's offense and helped the offense score on two of three drives.
No one knows what Kelly is thinking, but he usually likes to have options at quarterback. Keeping Kaepernick on the roster gives him another talented player to groom. We'd guess that Kaepernick sticks, although Christian Ponder's quality performance in the fourth quarter could make the decision tougher. Rookie Jeff Driskel looks headed for the practice squad, if that.
2. We're glad that Tom Brady played the entire first half for the Patriots, if only to hear Bill Belichick's explanation for it afterward.
"You can't take insurance out on players," Belichick said. "You play football, you play football. I don't know how you get better playing football without playing football. You can stand around and talk about it all day, but I don't think that really makes you a better player. At some point you have to get out there and play."
The Patriots' starters, including Brady, looked like they needed the work. The team's timing was erratic for much of Brady's six series.
3. Rams rookie Jared Goff had another night to forget, marked by inaccurate throws and more trouble with turnovers. It was telling that coach Jeff Fisher said after the game that he's leaning toward making Sean Mannion the Rams' backup quarterback to start the year ahead of Goff, with Case Keenum as the starter. Fisher said that without even watching the game film from Thursday. He's seen enough all month to know Goff is not ready.
Goff finished the preseason completing 45 percent of his throws for for 232 yards (4.73 YPA), two touchdowns, two picks, two lost fumbles and too many sacks.
4. While Goff struggled, Broncos' first-round pick Paxton Lynch continued to show off his considerable skill set. He completed 13 of 22 passes for 214 yards, two touchdowns and a pick in Denver's finale. We'd be surprised if he doesn't start games this season.
5. The fourth week of the preseason can be useful as a springboard for players needing a confidence boost. After a disastrous preseason before Thursday, the Bears should be thrilled to see receiver Kevin White catch all four targets sent his way for 57 yards. That should give the team more confidence that White can handle his starting role heading into the season.
6. Ravens second-year receiver Breshad Perriman had a similarly encouraging night. Playing in his first game action as a pro after battling injuries, Perriman caught the first two passes of the game for 25 yards.
7. If not for Dak Prescott, Titans running back Derrick Henry might just be my Preseason MVP. He has jumped off the screen week after week, finishing out his preseason Thursday with 62 yards and a touchdown on seven carries.
8. It was great to see Cardinals receiver John Brown back on the field in game action after missing nearly the entire month of August with concussion issues.
9. Seahawks starting running back Thomas Rawls made his preseason debut, carrying the ball two times for seven yards. He looks ready to roll for Week 1, even if he is splitting carries with Christine Michael.
10. Jets quarterback Bryce Petty didn't get to audition for long for the team's backup job. He hurt his shoulder after six throws and will undergo an MRI after the game. Petty had more yards in six attempts (87) than second-round rookie Christian Hackenberg had in 31 attempts (54). That 1.7 yards per attempt for Hackenberg is a number we've never seen.
11. Kaepernick's protest of the national anthem was not done in isolation this week. His teammate Eric Reid kneeled next to Kaepernick during the anthem. Seahawks cornerback Jeremy Lane sat on the bench during the anthem in Oakland.
Preseason Week 4 injury roundup.
New York Jets quarterback Bryce Petty exited Thursday night's preseason finale against the Philadelphia Eagles after sustaining a big hit in the first quarter. The injury occurred after Petty threw a touchdown pass to wide receiver Robby Anderson. After the game, Jets coach Todd Bowles said the quarterback has a sore right shoulder and he will undergo an MRI on Friday. Petty spoke to reporters after the game with his arm in a sling.
Other injuries we're tracking on Thursday:
1. The Vikings new No. 2 quarterback Joel Stave suffered an apparent hand injury against the Rams. Stave did not return to the game.
2. Panthers wide receiver Kevin Norwood is out for the remainder of the game with a hip injury.
3. Patriots left tackle Nate Solder exited the game against the Giants after suffering an undisclosed injury in the first half.
4. Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians said linebacker Kareem Martin has an MCL injury and might be sidelined for 2-3 weeks. The team believes the injury is not too serious, though.
5. Texans veteran inside linebacker Akeem Dent suffered a concussion against the Cowboys and is now under concussion protocol.
6. Falcons coach Dan Quinn said Julio Jones (ankle) will "c
New York Jets quarterback Bryce Petty exited Thursday night's preseason finale against the Philadelphia Eagles after sustaining a big hit in the first quarter. The injury occurred after Petty threw a touchdown pass to wide receiver Robby Anderson. After the game, Jets coach Todd Bowles said the quarterback has a sore right shoulder and he will undergo an MRI on Friday. Petty spoke to reporters after the game with his arm in a sling.
Other injuries we're tracking on Thursday:
1. The Vikings new No. 2 quarterback Joel Stave suffered an apparent hand injury against the Rams. Stave did not return to the game.
2. Panthers wide receiver Kevin Norwood is out for the remainder of the game with a hip injury.
3. Patriots left tackle Nate Solder exited the game against the Giants after suffering an undisclosed injury in the first half.
4. Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians said linebacker Kareem Martin has an MCL injury and might be sidelined for 2-3 weeks. The team believes the injury is not too serious, though.
5. Texans veteran inside linebacker Akeem Dent suffered a concussion against the Cowboys and is now under concussion protocol.
6. Falcons coach Dan Quinn said Julio Jones (ankle) will "c
Jared Goff faceplants vs. Vikings, poised to be No. 3 QB.
Brace yourselves for Case Keenum versus Blaine Gabbert when the Los Angeles Rams open the season on Monday Night Football.
If Jared Goff had even a slim chance of overtaking Keenum for the Week 1 quarterback job, Thursday night's performance in the preseason finale slammed the door shut.
The draft's No. 1 overall pick authored an encouraging opening touchdown drive, highlighted by a 30-yard, read-option pass to Bradley Marquez. The wheels fell off thereafter.
Goff's next five third-down opportunities resulted in three consecutive overthrows, a bail-out throw short of the first-down marker and a muffed shotgun snap inside the Rams' 10-yard line. His next throw after the lost fumble was tipped at the line of scrimmage and intercepted.
Operating almost exclusively out of the shotgun, Goff struggled with the follow through on his mechanics, showed errant ball placement and got rattled by pressure.
After completing 3 of 4 passes for 53 yards on the opening drive, he was a disturbing 3 of 12 for 14 yards with two turnovers on the final seven first-half possessions.
The Rams' quarterback of the future finished his first preseason 22 of 49 (44.9 percent) for 232 yards (4.73 yards per attempt), two touchdowns, two interceptions, three fumbles and a 55.8 passer rating.
Perhaps most telling, Goff has shown little awareness -- struggling with snaps, taking too many hits and failing to process at NFL speeds.
Coach Jeff Fisher conceded after the game, via Rich Hammond of the Los Angeles Daily News, that Sean Mannion is poised to enter the season as Keenum's backup, with Goff as the No. 3 quarterback.
"I think it's going to take a little bit more time," Fisher said. "That's not to say he can't be a (No. 2 quarterback) or start, but if we were starting right now, I'd probably have Sean as the two. Because it's all about being patient with him."
August quarterback assessments are notoriously difficult. A seemingly overmatched Cam Newton posted similar numbers to Goff in his first preseason, only to break the rookie record for passing yards in his regular-season debut.
While it's premature to downgrade Goff's career outlook, Rams fans have to be disappointed that he's headed for a redshirt rookie season rather than delivering the same brand of promise that Jameis Winston and Marcus Mariota provided in Tampa and Nashville last year.
Brace yourselves for Case Keenum versus Blaine Gabbert when the Los Angeles Rams open the season on Monday Night Football.
If Jared Goff had even a slim chance of overtaking Keenum for the Week 1 quarterback job, Thursday night's performance in the preseason finale slammed the door shut.
The draft's No. 1 overall pick authored an encouraging opening touchdown drive, highlighted by a 30-yard, read-option pass to Bradley Marquez. The wheels fell off thereafter.
Goff's next five third-down opportunities resulted in three consecutive overthrows, a bail-out throw short of the first-down marker and a muffed shotgun snap inside the Rams' 10-yard line. His next throw after the lost fumble was tipped at the line of scrimmage and intercepted.
Operating almost exclusively out of the shotgun, Goff struggled with the follow through on his mechanics, showed errant ball placement and got rattled by pressure.
After completing 3 of 4 passes for 53 yards on the opening drive, he was a disturbing 3 of 12 for 14 yards with two turnovers on the final seven first-half possessions.
The Rams' quarterback of the future finished his first preseason 22 of 49 (44.9 percent) for 232 yards (4.73 yards per attempt), two touchdowns, two interceptions, three fumbles and a 55.8 passer rating.
Perhaps most telling, Goff has shown little awareness -- struggling with snaps, taking too many hits and failing to process at NFL speeds.
Coach Jeff Fisher conceded after the game, via Rich Hammond of the Los Angeles Daily News, that Sean Mannion is poised to enter the season as Keenum's backup, with Goff as the No. 3 quarterback.
"I think it's going to take a little bit more time," Fisher said. "That's not to say he can't be a (No. 2 quarterback) or start, but if we were starting right now, I'd probably have Sean as the two. Because it's all about being patient with him."
August quarterback assessments are notoriously difficult. A seemingly overmatched Cam Newton posted similar numbers to Goff in his first preseason, only to break the rookie record for passing yards in his regular-season debut.
While it's premature to downgrade Goff's career outlook, Rams fans have to be disappointed that he's headed for a redshirt rookie season rather than delivering the same brand of promise that Jameis Winston and Marcus Mariota provided in Tampa and Nashville last year.
Derrick Henry has shown Titans 'everything he's capable of doing'.
The Derrick Henry hype train seems far too sparsely filled at the moment. Get on board, people.
For the fourth preseason game, the rookie running back flashed his bruising potential, galloping over the Miami Dolphins for 62 yards and a touchdown on seven carries and added a reception for six yards. He played just 13 snaps.
Here are all eight touches (watch and then jump on the bandwagon, I'll save you a spot):
In four preseason games, Henry averaged 6.4 yards per carry for 216 yards on 34 totes with three touchdown rushes.
"Yes, he's been consistent for four games and we've seen some really good production from him," coach Mike Mularkey said Thursday, via the team's official website. "That was the last run and I'm glad he broke it like he did before the play was called so they could give him the last one and get him out. A big run, a big physical run. He's shown everything he's capable of doing for four games now. "
"It's just the preseason!" nonbelievers will shout. Don't be a nonbeliever.
Yes, the Heisman Trophy winner faced stouter defenses in the SEC than the past four times he hit the field. Yes, he can improve his blocking and pass-catching (all rookies can improve). Yes, the string preseason running back darlings who fizzled in the past are plentiful (Zach Zenner, just last year).
It's not about the stats piled up against defenses made up of future Enterprise salesmen. It's about the traits displayed while racking up those yards.
Check out these back-to-back big runs Thursday night. Please notice that filthy cut on the first -- I thought he had no lateral agility, Mr. NFL Draft Scout?? -- and remember that's a 6-foot-3, 247-pound hammerhead making that nimble slide.
Henry will start the season behind DeMarco Murray, who looks fresher after a sad season in Philadelphia. As we've said in this space numerous times: expect Henry to eat into Murray's load as the season progresses. Henry is too talented to be limited to a backup role for long.
This hype train is about to leave the station, hop on before we leave you behind.
The Derrick Henry hype train seems far too sparsely filled at the moment. Get on board, people.
For the fourth preseason game, the rookie running back flashed his bruising potential, galloping over the Miami Dolphins for 62 yards and a touchdown on seven carries and added a reception for six yards. He played just 13 snaps.
Here are all eight touches (watch and then jump on the bandwagon, I'll save you a spot):
In four preseason games, Henry averaged 6.4 yards per carry for 216 yards on 34 totes with three touchdown rushes.
"Yes, he's been consistent for four games and we've seen some really good production from him," coach Mike Mularkey said Thursday, via the team's official website. "That was the last run and I'm glad he broke it like he did before the play was called so they could give him the last one and get him out. A big run, a big physical run. He's shown everything he's capable of doing for four games now. "
"It's just the preseason!" nonbelievers will shout. Don't be a nonbeliever.
Yes, the Heisman Trophy winner faced stouter defenses in the SEC than the past four times he hit the field. Yes, he can improve his blocking and pass-catching (all rookies can improve). Yes, the string preseason running back darlings who fizzled in the past are plentiful (Zach Zenner, just last year).
It's not about the stats piled up against defenses made up of future Enterprise salesmen. It's about the traits displayed while racking up those yards.
Check out these back-to-back big runs Thursday night. Please notice that filthy cut on the first -- I thought he had no lateral agility, Mr. NFL Draft Scout?? -- and remember that's a 6-foot-3, 247-pound hammerhead making that nimble slide.
Henry will start the season behind DeMarco Murray, who looks fresher after a sad season in Philadelphia. As we've said in this space numerous times: expect Henry to eat into Murray's load as the season progresses. Henry is too talented to be limited to a backup role for long.
This hype train is about to leave the station, hop on before we leave you behind.
First major surprise Bills cut: LB Manny Lawson, source tells ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter.
Bills also have released FB Jerome Felton, per source. So Glenn Gronkowski seemingly makes it as Buffalo's FB.
The Bills releasing veteran fullback Jerome Felton means undrafted rookie Glenn "Goose" Gronkowski -- the youngest brother of Rob Gronkowski -- has likely won a 53-man roster spot.
I am told that linebacker Adarius Glanton has made the Bucs' 53-man roster. He had spent 2014 and some of 2015 with the Panthers before the Bucs signed him off their practice squad in November.
The Titans are releasing Justin Hunter. Per Schefter also Bishop Sankey.
2016 NFL award predictions: MVP, Rookie of the Year and more.
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER.
Judy Battista: Aaron Rodgers, QB, Green Bay Packers. If his receiving corps stays healthy -- and it HAS to be healthier than last season -- Rodgers will enjoy one of his standard MVP-worthy seasons. What puts him over the top? The Packers have the easiest strength of schedule entering the season, with only the Seahawks (vs. Seattle on Dec. 11) looming as a daunting out-of-division showdown.
Jeffri Chadiha: Rodgers. Rodgers played most of 2015 with a depleted supporting cast and an overweight Eddie Lacy. He'll be at his best as long as those disadvantages don't plague the Pack this season.
Kurt Warner: Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Pittsburgh Steelers. I've raved about his ability in the past and think he's going to have another productive year.
Gil Brandt: Cam Newton, QB, Carolina Panthers. Newton follows in the footsteps of Super Bowl 50 foe Peyton Manning, the last player to be named MVP in consecutive seasons (in 2008 and '09). Newton will be even better than he was in 2015, thanks to another year of experience -- he'll be ready for the new looks he'll face from opposing defenses.
Maurice Jones-Drew: Tom Brady, QB, New England Patriots. He is going to be on a mission (again). It's as simple as that.
Brian Billick: Russell Wilson, QB, Seattle Seahawks. With the departure of Beast Mode, Wilson will have to be a 500-plus throw quarterback for the first time in his career and he is more than capable of that workload. Forty-plus total touchdowns and fewer than double-digits turnovers is attainable.
Gregg Rosenthal: Wilson. He plays quarterback well, which is one requirement for this award. He's going to play for a team that wins more games than any other, which is another requirement.
Willie McGinest: Odell Beckham Jr., WR, New York Giants Sterling Shepard (and possibly Victor Cruz) will open up the field for OBJ. The Giants' offense is going to be more comfortable in its third year under Ben McAdoo. OBJ is going to have a lot of touches and close to 1,800 yards and around 14 touchdowns if he's healthy.
Adam Schein: Rodgers. It's Aaron Rodgers' world and we are just living in it. Rodgers will be back to his explosive self with the return of Jordy Nelson and the slimmer frame of Eddie Lacy.
Bucky Brooks: Wilson. The Seahawks QB1 nearly claimed the league's top honor with a furious finish in 2015, but Wilson leaves no doubt this season with a spectacular campaign (4,000-plus passing yards, 35:10 TD-to-INT ratio) that cements his status as elite.
Eric Davis: Newton. He can easily improve on his mechanics (footwork, timing and his release). He's already the MVP, and with those improvements, he will earn this award once again.
Elliot Harrison: Antonio Brown, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers. He should've been given much stronger consideration the last two years. In 2016, Brown will become the first receiver to win the AP award.
David Carr: Brown. I would like to see more non-quarterbacks win this award, and I think he has a shot at taking it this season. He put up 1,834 yards a season ago, and he has the potential to have an even bigger year in 2016.
Charley Casserly: Brady. Despite missing four games, Brady proves he is the MVP by leading the Patriots back to the Super Bowl.
Ike Taylor: Newton. He will win for the second straight year simply because he won't lose any weapons from last season -- AND gains his best receiver from 2014 (Kelvin Benjamin). The Panthers have a solid run game, which includes Newton. Cam is set up for another MVP season.
Dave Dameshek: Rodgers. Cam, Big Ben & Russell oughta be in the mix, but -- based on a few of Rodgers' comments this offseason -- the most talented guy to ever play sports' most difficult position has better pass catchers and a chip on his shoulder going into 2016.
BUT IF NOT: Don't be surprised if Tom Brady goes 12-0 while never once handing the ball off.
Chris Wesseling: Wilson. The Seahawks are starting to give off that old familiar Super Bowl vibe again, and Wilson is riding high after authoring the best eight-game stretch of his sterling career late last year.
Colleen Wolfe: Roethlisberger. This is the year he stays healthy and finally gets the credit he deserves. Somebody hold Dave Dameshek.
Heath Evans: J.J. Watt, DE Houston Texans. What does this guy have to do to be the MVP? He has been the most dominant defensive player in the league for several years and deserves this award. I believe Watt is going to have his best season yet, despite having surgery in the offseason.
Marcas Grant: Rodgers. The band is back together in Green Bay! After a "disappointing" season, Rodgers will reassume his place atop the league's best.
Adam Rank: Rodgers. What a year it will be for the Rodgers family! Jordan wins love, Aaron gets another MVP award.
Michael Robinson: Rodgers. I think last year was a real disappointment for him. He is one of the best quarterbacks right now, and he has too much pride to have another down season.
Alex Gelhar: Rodgers. With his weapons once again healthy and in shape, and Mike McCarthy calling plays, Rodgers could be in for another statistically dominant season.
Judy Battista: Aaron Rodgers, QB, Green Bay Packers. If his receiving corps stays healthy -- and it HAS to be healthier than last season -- Rodgers will enjoy one of his standard MVP-worthy seasons. What puts him over the top? The Packers have the easiest strength of schedule entering the season, with only the Seahawks (vs. Seattle on Dec. 11) looming as a daunting out-of-division showdown.
Jeffri Chadiha: Rodgers. Rodgers played most of 2015 with a depleted supporting cast and an overweight Eddie Lacy. He'll be at his best as long as those disadvantages don't plague the Pack this season.
Kurt Warner: Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Pittsburgh Steelers. I've raved about his ability in the past and think he's going to have another productive year.
Gil Brandt: Cam Newton, QB, Carolina Panthers. Newton follows in the footsteps of Super Bowl 50 foe Peyton Manning, the last player to be named MVP in consecutive seasons (in 2008 and '09). Newton will be even better than he was in 2015, thanks to another year of experience -- he'll be ready for the new looks he'll face from opposing defenses.
Maurice Jones-Drew: Tom Brady, QB, New England Patriots. He is going to be on a mission (again). It's as simple as that.
Brian Billick: Russell Wilson, QB, Seattle Seahawks. With the departure of Beast Mode, Wilson will have to be a 500-plus throw quarterback for the first time in his career and he is more than capable of that workload. Forty-plus total touchdowns and fewer than double-digits turnovers is attainable.
Gregg Rosenthal: Wilson. He plays quarterback well, which is one requirement for this award. He's going to play for a team that wins more games than any other, which is another requirement.
Willie McGinest: Odell Beckham Jr., WR, New York Giants Sterling Shepard (and possibly Victor Cruz) will open up the field for OBJ. The Giants' offense is going to be more comfortable in its third year under Ben McAdoo. OBJ is going to have a lot of touches and close to 1,800 yards and around 14 touchdowns if he's healthy.
Adam Schein: Rodgers. It's Aaron Rodgers' world and we are just living in it. Rodgers will be back to his explosive self with the return of Jordy Nelson and the slimmer frame of Eddie Lacy.
Bucky Brooks: Wilson. The Seahawks QB1 nearly claimed the league's top honor with a furious finish in 2015, but Wilson leaves no doubt this season with a spectacular campaign (4,000-plus passing yards, 35:10 TD-to-INT ratio) that cements his status as elite.
Eric Davis: Newton. He can easily improve on his mechanics (footwork, timing and his release). He's already the MVP, and with those improvements, he will earn this award once again.
Elliot Harrison: Antonio Brown, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers. He should've been given much stronger consideration the last two years. In 2016, Brown will become the first receiver to win the AP award.
David Carr: Brown. I would like to see more non-quarterbacks win this award, and I think he has a shot at taking it this season. He put up 1,834 yards a season ago, and he has the potential to have an even bigger year in 2016.
Charley Casserly: Brady. Despite missing four games, Brady proves he is the MVP by leading the Patriots back to the Super Bowl.
Ike Taylor: Newton. He will win for the second straight year simply because he won't lose any weapons from last season -- AND gains his best receiver from 2014 (Kelvin Benjamin). The Panthers have a solid run game, which includes Newton. Cam is set up for another MVP season.
Dave Dameshek: Rodgers. Cam, Big Ben & Russell oughta be in the mix, but -- based on a few of Rodgers' comments this offseason -- the most talented guy to ever play sports' most difficult position has better pass catchers and a chip on his shoulder going into 2016.
BUT IF NOT: Don't be surprised if Tom Brady goes 12-0 while never once handing the ball off.
Chris Wesseling: Wilson. The Seahawks are starting to give off that old familiar Super Bowl vibe again, and Wilson is riding high after authoring the best eight-game stretch of his sterling career late last year.
Colleen Wolfe: Roethlisberger. This is the year he stays healthy and finally gets the credit he deserves. Somebody hold Dave Dameshek.
Heath Evans: J.J. Watt, DE Houston Texans. What does this guy have to do to be the MVP? He has been the most dominant defensive player in the league for several years and deserves this award. I believe Watt is going to have his best season yet, despite having surgery in the offseason.
Marcas Grant: Rodgers. The band is back together in Green Bay! After a "disappointing" season, Rodgers will reassume his place atop the league's best.
Adam Rank: Rodgers. What a year it will be for the Rodgers family! Jordan wins love, Aaron gets another MVP award.
Michael Robinson: Rodgers. I think last year was a real disappointment for him. He is one of the best quarterbacks right now, and he has too much pride to have another down season.
Alex Gelhar: Rodgers. With his weapons once again healthy and in shape, and Mike McCarthy calling plays, Rodgers could be in for another statistically dominant season.
OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR.
Judy Battista: Antonio Brown, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers. Brown is so dominant that he even softens the blow of the season-long suspension of Martavis Bryant. Last year, he had 136 receptions for 1,834 yards and 10 touchdowns -- and that was with Michael Vick and Landry Jones starting five games. Good luck to defensive backs if Ben Roethlisberger stays healthy this season.
Jeffri Chadiha: Todd Gurley, RB, Los Angeles Rams. Gurley won Offensive Rookie of the Year without playing a full season and he'll be even more dangerous in his second go-around.
Kurt Warner: Brown.
Gil Brandt: Tom Brady, QB, New England Patriots. Even with Brady set to miss the first four games of the season, he'll throw for 3,700 yards and 25 touchdowns in leading the Pats to yet another AFC East title.
Maurice Jones-Drew: Gurley. I think he's going to build off what he did as a rookie.
Brian Billick: Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite the lack of a proven tight end in Pittsburgh, there isn't a quarterback in the NFL who has more weapons at his disposal.
Gregg Rosenthal: N/A. The dumbest award in sports should just go to the MVP.
Willie McGinest: Aaron Rodgers, QB, Green Bay Packers. He is coming off a mediocre year for him in 2015. He is in the best shape of his life right now and gets some weapons back on offense. He wants to prove that the Packers are still the team to beat in the division and conference.
Adam Schein: Rodgers. See: My MVP blurb.
Bucky Brooks: Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Dallas Cowboys. It's uncommon for a rookie runner to dominate the NFL in his first season, but Elliott makes a push at the 2,000-yard club as the Cowboys' feature back.
Eric Davis: Odell Beckham Jr., WR, New York Giants. Because of Eli Manning's resurgence, OBJ could get this award.
Elliot Harrison: Rob Gronkowski, TE, New England Patriots. This should be the same as the MVP, but give it to Gronk because he deserves it for being so much better than everyone else at his position.
David Carr: Eli Manning, QB, New York Giants. He has a great group of receivers -- even if Victor Cruz isn't healthy, they still have Odell Beckham Jr. and Sterling Shepard. The Giants improved their defense, so Eli and Co. will have more opportunities.
Charley Casserly: Roethlisberger. With the weapons he has, I look for Big Ben to have a monster year.
Ike Taylor: Brown. This guy will win this award if -- and only if -- Ben Roethlisberger plays in all 16 regular-season games. If both of these players are healthy, nobody can match their production.
Dave Dameshek: Beckham. Even when adjusted for generational differences, Antonio Brown's 2013-15 stretch is the greatest in NFL history. This year, though, Beckham will grab (one-handed?!) the mantle of "Best Receiver" with 120 catches, 1,900 yards and 15 TDs.
BUT IF NOT: Give it to Gronk, the best to ever play his position.
Chris Wesseling: Beckham. I have no idea what the qualifications are for this award, but Beckham is the best athlete on the field every time he steps foot on the gridiron. He's a generational talent.
Colleen Wolfe: Brown. No one can stop him. Not even the barber who gave him that sweet Lego cut last year.
Heath Evans: Brady. Even though he's going to miss four games, Brady will have some of the best numbers in the league. He's on a mission, and I learned -- when I played with the Patriots for four years -- that you should never bet against him.
Marcas Grant: Rodgers. If you're the best player in the league, how are you not also the best offensive player? This feels like a slam dunk.
Adam Rank: Brown. He's the best player in the league.
Michael Robinson: Gronkowski. The Patriots brought in Martellus Bennett, who is a huge threat and normally a TE1. How can defenses possibly guard both of these guys? They can't, and Gronk will take advantage of that.
Alex Gelhar: Brown. His value to the team and personal ability shine this year with the absence of Martavis Bryant.
Judy Battista: Antonio Brown, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers. Brown is so dominant that he even softens the blow of the season-long suspension of Martavis Bryant. Last year, he had 136 receptions for 1,834 yards and 10 touchdowns -- and that was with Michael Vick and Landry Jones starting five games. Good luck to defensive backs if Ben Roethlisberger stays healthy this season.
Jeffri Chadiha: Todd Gurley, RB, Los Angeles Rams. Gurley won Offensive Rookie of the Year without playing a full season and he'll be even more dangerous in his second go-around.
Kurt Warner: Brown.
Gil Brandt: Tom Brady, QB, New England Patriots. Even with Brady set to miss the first four games of the season, he'll throw for 3,700 yards and 25 touchdowns in leading the Pats to yet another AFC East title.
Maurice Jones-Drew: Gurley. I think he's going to build off what he did as a rookie.
Brian Billick: Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite the lack of a proven tight end in Pittsburgh, there isn't a quarterback in the NFL who has more weapons at his disposal.
Gregg Rosenthal: N/A. The dumbest award in sports should just go to the MVP.
Willie McGinest: Aaron Rodgers, QB, Green Bay Packers. He is coming off a mediocre year for him in 2015. He is in the best shape of his life right now and gets some weapons back on offense. He wants to prove that the Packers are still the team to beat in the division and conference.
Adam Schein: Rodgers. See: My MVP blurb.
Bucky Brooks: Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Dallas Cowboys. It's uncommon for a rookie runner to dominate the NFL in his first season, but Elliott makes a push at the 2,000-yard club as the Cowboys' feature back.
Eric Davis: Odell Beckham Jr., WR, New York Giants. Because of Eli Manning's resurgence, OBJ could get this award.
Elliot Harrison: Rob Gronkowski, TE, New England Patriots. This should be the same as the MVP, but give it to Gronk because he deserves it for being so much better than everyone else at his position.
David Carr: Eli Manning, QB, New York Giants. He has a great group of receivers -- even if Victor Cruz isn't healthy, they still have Odell Beckham Jr. and Sterling Shepard. The Giants improved their defense, so Eli and Co. will have more opportunities.
Charley Casserly: Roethlisberger. With the weapons he has, I look for Big Ben to have a monster year.
Ike Taylor: Brown. This guy will win this award if -- and only if -- Ben Roethlisberger plays in all 16 regular-season games. If both of these players are healthy, nobody can match their production.
Dave Dameshek: Beckham. Even when adjusted for generational differences, Antonio Brown's 2013-15 stretch is the greatest in NFL history. This year, though, Beckham will grab (one-handed?!) the mantle of "Best Receiver" with 120 catches, 1,900 yards and 15 TDs.
BUT IF NOT: Give it to Gronk, the best to ever play his position.
Chris Wesseling: Beckham. I have no idea what the qualifications are for this award, but Beckham is the best athlete on the field every time he steps foot on the gridiron. He's a generational talent.
Colleen Wolfe: Brown. No one can stop him. Not even the barber who gave him that sweet Lego cut last year.
Heath Evans: Brady. Even though he's going to miss four games, Brady will have some of the best numbers in the league. He's on a mission, and I learned -- when I played with the Patriots for four years -- that you should never bet against him.
Marcas Grant: Rodgers. If you're the best player in the league, how are you not also the best offensive player? This feels like a slam dunk.
Adam Rank: Brown. He's the best player in the league.
Michael Robinson: Gronkowski. The Patriots brought in Martellus Bennett, who is a huge threat and normally a TE1. How can defenses possibly guard both of these guys? They can't, and Gronk will take advantage of that.
Alex Gelhar: Brown. His value to the team and personal ability shine this year with the absence of Martavis Bryant.
