Ryan Tannehill's knee was 'ticking time bomb' after December injury, source says.
The Miami Dolphins now fear quarterback Ryan Tannehill will need season-ending knee surgery, however no decision to have it has been made at this time, according to sources close to the situation.As second and third opinions await, Tannehill still could decide to rest it for six to eight weeks and try to come back from his knee injury again, sources said.
But the Dolphins are growing increasingly concerned that surgery will be the most viable and likely option as they and their starting quarterback sift through them.
"He's done, I think," one source predicted Thursday night, referring to Tannehill's hopes of returning this season.
But nothing is final, and options still are on the table.
Tannehill must decide whether he wants to wait at least six weeks to let the knee heal and take another shot at playing this year, or go ahead and have the surgery, which would end his season.
The Dolphins recognize they might have to step in and recommend the surgery that Tannehill has avoided since he initially injured the knee last December against Arizona.
One source said Thursday that, because Tannehill did not repair his partially torn ACL during the offseason, his knee was "a ticking time bomb that was going to go off at any time."
It happened Thursday, on a noncontact play, when Tannehill crumbled to the ground while scrambling in practice.
Tannehill underwent an MRI, and now the Dolphins know they will be without him for at least a significant amount of time, and quite possibly the season.
Who steps in?
The Dolphins do have a competent backup in Matt Moore, who took over first-team reps for the remainder of Thursday's practice after Tannehill was hurt. But Moore was prone to some big hits last season that could make him vulnerable to injury, as well.
Sources said that Jay Cutler would be willing to delay his broadcast career at Fox to play for Dolphins coach Adam Gase, who helped him revitalize his career when he was the QB's offensive coordinator with the Bears in 2015. But Cutler plans to consider such a move only if he gets the chance to be the full-time starter (and get starter money) for the entire season. (Cutler views this as the only practical QB job he'd consider at this point, sources said.)
Sources, meanwhile, said Cutler is the one who has the initial interest in playing for Gase, and the Dolphins have not yet gone down that road.
In addition, sources told ESPN's Josina Anderson that Colin Kaepernick's name has been brought up within the Dolphins' front office as potential insurance at the position. Miami owner Steve Ross has shown in recent years to be very open-minded regarding social issues, defending the choices of some Dolphins players last season when they decided to join Kaepernick by taking a knee during the national anthem. Gase, too, is known as a player's coach willing to maintain an open mind on off-the-field beliefs.
Tannehill is coming off his best, most efficient season in 2016, going 8-5 as a starter with a career-best 93.5 passer rating before he suffered the season-ending injury on Dec. 11. Moore went 2-2 while filling in for Tannehill, who didn't require surgery.
"I just saw him kind of buckle and go down. I didn't see any details," offensive coordinator Clyde Christensen said of Tannehill's injury Thursday. "... There was no contact on the play. That was all I really saw."
Said tight end MarQueis Gray: "I saw it, but I have no idea what the outcome will be. We're just praying for him. We don't know what's going to happen."
<article class="ad-300"></article>This is another key injury for the Dolphins in the first week of training camp.
Pro Bowl running back Jay Ajayi suffered a concussion during Monday's practice and is in the concussion protocol. Starting left guard Ted Larsen suffered a biceps injury Thursday and was expected to miss at least several weeks of the regular season, according to multiple reports.
"The initial reaction is just be the next man up," Christensen said. "You gotta keep going. You gotta keep guys going and you can't let the air go out of practice. That's football. [Injuries] are going to happen somewhere in this season. It's going to happen somewhere in this game."
Information from ESPN's James Walker was used in this report.
The Miami Dolphins now fear quarterback Ryan Tannehill will need season-ending knee surgery, however no decision to have it has been made at this time, according to sources close to the situation.As second and third opinions await, Tannehill still could decide to rest it for six to eight weeks and try to come back from his knee injury again, sources said.
But the Dolphins are growing increasingly concerned that surgery will be the most viable and likely option as they and their starting quarterback sift through them.
"He's done, I think," one source predicted Thursday night, referring to Tannehill's hopes of returning this season.
But nothing is final, and options still are on the table.
Tannehill must decide whether he wants to wait at least six weeks to let the knee heal and take another shot at playing this year, or go ahead and have the surgery, which would end his season.
The Dolphins recognize they might have to step in and recommend the surgery that Tannehill has avoided since he initially injured the knee last December against Arizona.
One source said Thursday that, because Tannehill did not repair his partially torn ACL during the offseason, his knee was "a ticking time bomb that was going to go off at any time."
It happened Thursday, on a noncontact play, when Tannehill crumbled to the ground while scrambling in practice.
Tannehill underwent an MRI, and now the Dolphins know they will be without him for at least a significant amount of time, and quite possibly the season.
Who steps in?
The Dolphins do have a competent backup in Matt Moore, who took over first-team reps for the remainder of Thursday's practice after Tannehill was hurt. But Moore was prone to some big hits last season that could make him vulnerable to injury, as well.
Sources said that Jay Cutler would be willing to delay his broadcast career at Fox to play for Dolphins coach Adam Gase, who helped him revitalize his career when he was the QB's offensive coordinator with the Bears in 2015. But Cutler plans to consider such a move only if he gets the chance to be the full-time starter (and get starter money) for the entire season. (Cutler views this as the only practical QB job he'd consider at this point, sources said.)
Sources, meanwhile, said Cutler is the one who has the initial interest in playing for Gase, and the Dolphins have not yet gone down that road.
In addition, sources told ESPN's Josina Anderson that Colin Kaepernick's name has been brought up within the Dolphins' front office as potential insurance at the position. Miami owner Steve Ross has shown in recent years to be very open-minded regarding social issues, defending the choices of some Dolphins players last season when they decided to join Kaepernick by taking a knee during the national anthem. Gase, too, is known as a player's coach willing to maintain an open mind on off-the-field beliefs.
Tannehill is coming off his best, most efficient season in 2016, going 8-5 as a starter with a career-best 93.5 passer rating before he suffered the season-ending injury on Dec. 11. Moore went 2-2 while filling in for Tannehill, who didn't require surgery.
"I just saw him kind of buckle and go down. I didn't see any details," offensive coordinator Clyde Christensen said of Tannehill's injury Thursday. "... There was no contact on the play. That was all I really saw."
Said tight end MarQueis Gray: "I saw it, but I have no idea what the outcome will be. We're just praying for him. We don't know what's going to happen."
<article class="ad-300"></article>This is another key injury for the Dolphins in the first week of training camp.
Pro Bowl running back Jay Ajayi suffered a concussion during Monday's practice and is in the concussion protocol. Starting left guard Ted Larsen suffered a biceps injury Thursday and was expected to miss at least several weeks of the regular season, according to multiple reports.
"The initial reaction is just be the next man up," Christensen said. "You gotta keep going. You gotta keep guys going and you can't let the air go out of practice. That's football. [Injuries] are going to happen somewhere in this season. It's going to happen somewhere in this game."
Information from ESPN's James Walker was used in this report.
Fuck Jay Cutler...lol........Where`s Tony Romo?
Thursday Notes.
The Seahawks have always enjoyed physical practice sessions under Pete Carroll, but Thursday's action went too far for Seattle's coach.
Carroll confirmed that pass-rusher Frank Clark was sent to the showers after starting a fight with offensive lineman Germain Ifedi.
Gregg Bell of The Times Tribune described the tussle as a "wild" tangle that spawned from a pass-rushing drill, with Clark delivering a "flying blow" that "appeared to have bloodied" Ifedi's face. It's worth noting this isn't Clark's first scuffle in practice with his teammates.
Veteran defensive lineman Michael Bennett -- one of the league's most physical players -- said Clark went too far.
"Fighting to the point where you hurt each other, that's the line that you draw," Bennett said after practice, per Bob Condotta of The Seattle Times. "I think the line is to respect your teammates and to know that, at the end of the day, this is practice, it is not a game."
Training camp fights are commonplace in the NFL, but injuring a teammate is not. Time to take it down a notch in the Pacific Northwest.
Here's what else we learned during Thursday's camp action.
Disaster averted in Miami?
The Dolphins spent the day on high alert after watching starting quarterback Ryan Tannehill go down awkwardly with a non-contact injury to his left knee in practice. Thankfully for the organization, he suffered no structural damage to the same knee he injured last season, per NFL Network's Aditi Kinkhabwala. The knee did buckle, meaning Tannehill could still miss some time, but chalk this up as a tremendous relief for the franchise. After long hours spent wondering if Miami coach Adam Gase would be forced to dial up Colin Kapernick or maybe even quarterback-turned-broadcaster Jay Cutler, it appears the 'Fins can proceed as planned.
TB12 turns 40
Just in case you've been tucked away in a subterranean spy-bunker 200 miles below the Russian wildnerness, here's something you should know: Tom Brady turned 40 today. Our website is littered with articles, videos, embedded tweets, social-media omnibuses and other content celebrating the birth of New England's star passer, so we'll just leave you with something simple: furry little goats prancing about Patriots camp.
Let's fly to the Raven's Nest
While injuries creep up around the league, no team has been harder hit than Baltimore.
Colleague Kevin Patra summed up the wreckage: "In just the past 10 days, John Harbaugh's team has lost running back Kenneth Dixon (MCL), guard John Urschel (retirement), corner Maurice Canady (MCL), tight end Crockett Gillmore (MCL) and guard Nico Siragusa (ACL, MCL). That week-and-a-half's worth doesn't even include Joe Flacco dealing with back pain, the retirement of Zach Orr in January, or the losses of CB Tavon Young (ACL), TE Dennis Pitta (hip) and TE Darren Waller (year-long suspension) in June."
It's an incredible list of banged-up, lost athletes, but tight end Benjamin Watson is asking fans not to melt in a collective freak-out, saying: "It always seems like your situation is the worst when you're in it. I swear, every training camp I'm like, 'Man, we have a lot of injuries.' And we, in fact, do. That being said, that's why it's a team game. It's incumbent upon other players to step in and play."
Watson's stance is appreciated, but I side with Gregg Rosenthal, who told NFL Network: "The Baltimore Ravens had the worst week of any team -- and it really was not even close."
Odds and Ends
1. More good news out of Miami, where the team is convinced pass-catcher DeVante Parker is set to become a full-blown star, with receivers coach Shawn Jefferson telling the Miami Herald's Barry Jackson: "He'll be a monster. If he keeps progressing like we think he can, he'll be invited to the 'Monster Bowl' after the season is over. His name is not DeVante; he's a monster." Name-change noted, sir.
2. Carlos Hyde has been whispered about as a cut candidate in San Francisco based off speculation the fourth-year running back isn't a fit for coach Kyle Shanahan's outside-zone run scheme. The Niners today are singing a different tune, with general manager John Lynch saying that Hyde "looks tremendous" and Shanahan telling reporters: "I can tell he's put in the work and has given himself a chance to have a good season."
With quarterback Brian Hoyer also emphasizing that Hyde is "in the right scheme," chopping him off the roster is beginning to feel like a remote possibility at best -- unless all these pretty words are being uttered to set the table for a potential trade.
3. One player who won't be hanging around in San Francisco is oft-injured wideout Bruce Ellington, who was waived by the team on Thursday, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.
4. The Bills are intrigued by the prospect of adding free-agent wideout Anquan Boldin, but general manager Brandon Beane told WGR 550 in Buffalo that negotiations are "at a stall," adding: "Anquan is at a time in his life where I think family is very important ... I'm not sure where he's at with that. He's got to be all in and that's where we left it."
5. If you're Blake Bortles, here's what you do: 1. Don't pick up a newspaper. 2. Never scan the internet. 3. Mute sports talk radio, and 4. Hit the block button on Saints defensive end Cam Jordan, who dropped a from-the-wilderness nuke on the Jaguars quarterback by saying: "You're not going to face more of a top-tier quarterback than Drew (Brees) ... It's not like we're going against Blake Bortles here (in practice). It's not like Drew's giving picks away. We're talking about a guy who's a perennial elite."
From the Trainers' Room
In an effort to rest his shoulder, Cam Newton didn't throw at Panthers camp for the third straight day. ... Titans first-round receiver Corey Davis left practice Thursday to undergo an MRI on his hamstring. Tennessee's veteran running back DeMarco Murray is also day-to-day with a tweaked hammy. ... Seahawks second-round defensive tackle Malik McDowell reported to training camp after suffering a concussion and facial injuries in an ATV accident. The rookie was added to the team's non-football injury (NFI) list. ... Jets rookie safety Jamal Adams sprained his ankle during practice, per the team's official website. Coach Todd Bowles was unsure of the severity. Also for Gang Green, running back Matt Forte is dealing with a hamstring injury, per Brian Costello of the New York Post. ... Check our full injury roundup here.
The Seahawks have always enjoyed physical practice sessions under Pete Carroll, but Thursday's action went too far for Seattle's coach.
Carroll confirmed that pass-rusher Frank Clark was sent to the showers after starting a fight with offensive lineman Germain Ifedi.
Gregg Bell of The Times Tribune described the tussle as a "wild" tangle that spawned from a pass-rushing drill, with Clark delivering a "flying blow" that "appeared to have bloodied" Ifedi's face. It's worth noting this isn't Clark's first scuffle in practice with his teammates.
Veteran defensive lineman Michael Bennett -- one of the league's most physical players -- said Clark went too far.
"Fighting to the point where you hurt each other, that's the line that you draw," Bennett said after practice, per Bob Condotta of The Seattle Times. "I think the line is to respect your teammates and to know that, at the end of the day, this is practice, it is not a game."
Training camp fights are commonplace in the NFL, but injuring a teammate is not. Time to take it down a notch in the Pacific Northwest.
Here's what else we learned during Thursday's camp action.
Disaster averted in Miami?
The Dolphins spent the day on high alert after watching starting quarterback Ryan Tannehill go down awkwardly with a non-contact injury to his left knee in practice. Thankfully for the organization, he suffered no structural damage to the same knee he injured last season, per NFL Network's Aditi Kinkhabwala. The knee did buckle, meaning Tannehill could still miss some time, but chalk this up as a tremendous relief for the franchise. After long hours spent wondering if Miami coach Adam Gase would be forced to dial up Colin Kapernick or maybe even quarterback-turned-broadcaster Jay Cutler, it appears the 'Fins can proceed as planned.
TB12 turns 40
Just in case you've been tucked away in a subterranean spy-bunker 200 miles below the Russian wildnerness, here's something you should know: Tom Brady turned 40 today. Our website is littered with articles, videos, embedded tweets, social-media omnibuses and other content celebrating the birth of New England's star passer, so we'll just leave you with something simple: furry little goats prancing about Patriots camp.
Let's fly to the Raven's Nest
While injuries creep up around the league, no team has been harder hit than Baltimore.
Colleague Kevin Patra summed up the wreckage: "In just the past 10 days, John Harbaugh's team has lost running back Kenneth Dixon (MCL), guard John Urschel (retirement), corner Maurice Canady (MCL), tight end Crockett Gillmore (MCL) and guard Nico Siragusa (ACL, MCL). That week-and-a-half's worth doesn't even include Joe Flacco dealing with back pain, the retirement of Zach Orr in January, or the losses of CB Tavon Young (ACL), TE Dennis Pitta (hip) and TE Darren Waller (year-long suspension) in June."
It's an incredible list of banged-up, lost athletes, but tight end Benjamin Watson is asking fans not to melt in a collective freak-out, saying: "It always seems like your situation is the worst when you're in it. I swear, every training camp I'm like, 'Man, we have a lot of injuries.' And we, in fact, do. That being said, that's why it's a team game. It's incumbent upon other players to step in and play."
Watson's stance is appreciated, but I side with Gregg Rosenthal, who told NFL Network: "The Baltimore Ravens had the worst week of any team -- and it really was not even close."
Odds and Ends
1. More good news out of Miami, where the team is convinced pass-catcher DeVante Parker is set to become a full-blown star, with receivers coach Shawn Jefferson telling the Miami Herald's Barry Jackson: "He'll be a monster. If he keeps progressing like we think he can, he'll be invited to the 'Monster Bowl' after the season is over. His name is not DeVante; he's a monster." Name-change noted, sir.
2. Carlos Hyde has been whispered about as a cut candidate in San Francisco based off speculation the fourth-year running back isn't a fit for coach Kyle Shanahan's outside-zone run scheme. The Niners today are singing a different tune, with general manager John Lynch saying that Hyde "looks tremendous" and Shanahan telling reporters: "I can tell he's put in the work and has given himself a chance to have a good season."
With quarterback Brian Hoyer also emphasizing that Hyde is "in the right scheme," chopping him off the roster is beginning to feel like a remote possibility at best -- unless all these pretty words are being uttered to set the table for a potential trade.
3. One player who won't be hanging around in San Francisco is oft-injured wideout Bruce Ellington, who was waived by the team on Thursday, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.
4. The Bills are intrigued by the prospect of adding free-agent wideout Anquan Boldin, but general manager Brandon Beane told WGR 550 in Buffalo that negotiations are "at a stall," adding: "Anquan is at a time in his life where I think family is very important ... I'm not sure where he's at with that. He's got to be all in and that's where we left it."
5. If you're Blake Bortles, here's what you do: 1. Don't pick up a newspaper. 2. Never scan the internet. 3. Mute sports talk radio, and 4. Hit the block button on Saints defensive end Cam Jordan, who dropped a from-the-wilderness nuke on the Jaguars quarterback by saying: "You're not going to face more of a top-tier quarterback than Drew (Brees) ... It's not like we're going against Blake Bortles here (in practice). It's not like Drew's giving picks away. We're talking about a guy who's a perennial elite."
From the Trainers' Room
In an effort to rest his shoulder, Cam Newton didn't throw at Panthers camp for the third straight day. ... Titans first-round receiver Corey Davis left practice Thursday to undergo an MRI on his hamstring. Tennessee's veteran running back DeMarco Murray is also day-to-day with a tweaked hammy. ... Seahawks second-round defensive tackle Malik McDowell reported to training camp after suffering a concussion and facial injuries in an ATV accident. The rookie was added to the team's non-football injury (NFI) list. ... Jets rookie safety Jamal Adams sprained his ankle during practice, per the team's official website. Coach Todd Bowles was unsure of the severity. Also for Gang Green, running back Matt Forte is dealing with a hamstring injury, per Brian Costello of the New York Post. ... Check our full injury roundup here.
These schools have produced the most Pro Football Hall of Famers!
Hopkins: Tom Savage should be Texans' starting QB.
The Texans have won the AFC South in consecutive seasons, but judging by the way their quarterback position was evaluated in the offseason, you wouldn't know it.
Need more proof? With coach Bill O'Brien showering praise on Deshaun Watson earlier this week, Houston is looking at the possibility of starting a rookie behind center in Week 1. That's usually typical of a franchise far from the postseason (i.e., the Browns, who are giving DeShone Kizer plenty of reps), not a defending division champion.
But one of the Texans' stars is demanding we toss that rookie talk into the stands, because according to him, Houston already has its starter in Tom Savage.
"If anybody should be a judge of quarterbacks, I've played with the most quarterbacks in NFL history throughout my first four years," DeAndre Hopkins said after practice Friday, via ESPN's Dan Graziano. "So I put the stamp on Savage, and I think that's all that needs to be said about that."
The endorsements don't get much stronger than that of a team's best receiver, who truly has caught passes from more hired guns than anyone (Around the NFL's Marc Sessler listed them earlier this week). Savage has taken all of the first-team reps and seems to have a firm grasp on the starting job, but with Watson drawing rave reviews and O'Brien's quarterback room long having a revolving door, a sudden change can't be ruled out.
Savage is driven by an opportunity lost at the end of last season, as detailed in a piece written by NFL.com columnist Michael Silver, so he won't be going down lightly, if at all. A Savage-led offense has been tougher on the Texans' reigning top-ranked defense in camp than in previous years, Jadeveon Clowney told Silver this week. Hopkins was generous with his review of Savage in that piece, too.
"I've played with at least 10 quarterbacks," Hopkins said, again via ESPN. "So because of what he does well, and what he can do for this team, I know he can help us win what we want to win.
"He does everything well. He's a student of the game, from just being on the bench, watching and learning from other people's mistakes, seeing what they've done wrong. He can put the ball in any place. He has a strong arm. He has a knowledge of this offense. He's been in this offense his whole career."
It should be comforting to Savage that his best target is in his corner. In a fluid league, we'll check back to see where that stands come Week 4.
The Texans have won the AFC South in consecutive seasons, but judging by the way their quarterback position was evaluated in the offseason, you wouldn't know it.
Need more proof? With coach Bill O'Brien showering praise on Deshaun Watson earlier this week, Houston is looking at the possibility of starting a rookie behind center in Week 1. That's usually typical of a franchise far from the postseason (i.e., the Browns, who are giving DeShone Kizer plenty of reps), not a defending division champion.
But one of the Texans' stars is demanding we toss that rookie talk into the stands, because according to him, Houston already has its starter in Tom Savage.
"If anybody should be a judge of quarterbacks, I've played with the most quarterbacks in NFL history throughout my first four years," DeAndre Hopkins said after practice Friday, via ESPN's Dan Graziano. "So I put the stamp on Savage, and I think that's all that needs to be said about that."
The endorsements don't get much stronger than that of a team's best receiver, who truly has caught passes from more hired guns than anyone (Around the NFL's Marc Sessler listed them earlier this week). Savage has taken all of the first-team reps and seems to have a firm grasp on the starting job, but with Watson drawing rave reviews and O'Brien's quarterback room long having a revolving door, a sudden change can't be ruled out.
Savage is driven by an opportunity lost at the end of last season, as detailed in a piece written by NFL.com columnist Michael Silver, so he won't be going down lightly, if at all. A Savage-led offense has been tougher on the Texans' reigning top-ranked defense in camp than in previous years, Jadeveon Clowney told Silver this week. Hopkins was generous with his review of Savage in that piece, too.
"I've played with at least 10 quarterbacks," Hopkins said, again via ESPN. "So because of what he does well, and what he can do for this team, I know he can help us win what we want to win.
"He does everything well. He's a student of the game, from just being on the bench, watching and learning from other people's mistakes, seeing what they've done wrong. He can put the ball in any place. He has a strong arm. He has a knowledge of this offense. He's been in this offense his whole career."
It should be comforting to Savage that his best target is in his corner. In a fluid league, we'll check back to see where that stands come Week 4.
Trevor Siemian starting to take control of Broncos QB competition over Paxton Lynch.
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- Every day, every practice, every throw is part of the Denver Broncos’ competition at quarterback between Trevor Siemian and Paxton Lynch. Here’s a closer look at their day:
Trevor Siemian
Siemian opened with the second-team offense Friday, and in the practice’s early periods, he looked as poised as he has thus far in training camp. He remained steady throughout the day and coach Vance Joseph said: “I saw Trevor being consistent, making his reads, making his throws where the reads told him to make the throws. He did a good job [Friday]." That included Siemian making some adjustments at the line of scrimmage to get the Broncos in a better play, including a quarterback sneak in team drills that would have picked up a first down.
Wow moment: Siemian opened it up early with a nice toss to rookie wide receiver Isaiah McKenzie for what would have been a scoring pass. Later, he had another scoring toss to wide receiver Marlon Brown off play-action. He made another well-timed throw to tight end Virgil Green, hitting Green over the middle. Green then found room to run up the left sideline.
Whoa moment: He had a pass batted down at one point, but overall, Siemian avoided the major mistakes.
Paxton Lynch
Lynch opened with the starters and had a rough start to the day as the tempo overall in the practice was a little quicker than it has been previously during the week. He settled in a little better as the workout went on, but his days have gone better in camp when he’s had a quick start.
Wow moment: Lynch showed quality footwork on a screen play to McKenzie that would have been a big gain in a game situation. And later in the day, Lynch moved to his right with some patience and kept a play alive before he found Demaryius Thomas in team drills.
Whoa moment: Lynch missed an open Thomas in a 7-on-7 drill, and instead, he tried to squeeze the ball into double coverage and Bradley Roby snared an interception. Later in the day, he didn’t see linebacker Danny Mason drop into coverage, and Mason tipped the ball that was then intercepted by Lorenzo Doss.
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- Every day, every practice, every throw is part of the Denver Broncos’ competition at quarterback between Trevor Siemian and Paxton Lynch. Here’s a closer look at their day:
Trevor Siemian
Siemian opened with the second-team offense Friday, and in the practice’s early periods, he looked as poised as he has thus far in training camp. He remained steady throughout the day and coach Vance Joseph said: “I saw Trevor being consistent, making his reads, making his throws where the reads told him to make the throws. He did a good job [Friday]." That included Siemian making some adjustments at the line of scrimmage to get the Broncos in a better play, including a quarterback sneak in team drills that would have picked up a first down.
Wow moment: Siemian opened it up early with a nice toss to rookie wide receiver Isaiah McKenzie for what would have been a scoring pass. Later, he had another scoring toss to wide receiver Marlon Brown off play-action. He made another well-timed throw to tight end Virgil Green, hitting Green over the middle. Green then found room to run up the left sideline.
Whoa moment: He had a pass batted down at one point, but overall, Siemian avoided the major mistakes.
Paxton Lynch
Lynch opened with the starters and had a rough start to the day as the tempo overall in the practice was a little quicker than it has been previously during the week. He settled in a little better as the workout went on, but his days have gone better in camp when he’s had a quick start.
Wow moment: Lynch showed quality footwork on a screen play to McKenzie that would have been a big gain in a game situation. And later in the day, Lynch moved to his right with some patience and kept a play alive before he found Demaryius Thomas in team drills.
Whoa moment: Lynch missed an open Thomas in a 7-on-7 drill, and instead, he tried to squeeze the ball into double coverage and Bradley Roby snared an interception. Later in the day, he didn’t see linebacker Danny Mason drop into coverage, and Mason tipped the ball that was then intercepted by Lorenzo Doss.
<header class="article-header">No camp in sight, Le'Veon Bell works with footwork coach in South Florida.
LATROBE, Pa. -- Le'Veon Bell's absence from Steelers camp couldn't have been more stark Thursday. Antonio Brown, who has lobbied for Bell to join him in camp for the start of what the Steelers hope will be a Super Bowl push, made a slick, one-handed catch over the middle during practice, prompting coach Mike Tomlin to jokingly challenge him to catch the ball with no hands."Show me your new [stuff]," Tomlin said.
That was Thursday afternoon, around the same time Bell posted Snapchat videos of himself working out in South Florida.
Those scenarios will continue, at least for a few more days.
Bell is consulting with Elite Footwork specialist Rischad Whitfield in Miami for a five-day stretch that ends early next week, Whitfield told ESPN.
"I feel sorry for these opposing teams' defenses this season," Whitfield said. "Le'Veon will be hell to deal with on the field. It's the best I've seen him look, train. His focus is incredible and super-driven and determined to be the best RB in the NFL."
Bell's workouts with Whitfield all but ensure Bell won't report to the Steelers until the middle of next week, at the earliest, because of a contract impasse. A late August return seems more likely.
Over this five-day stretch, Bell will be working on quick-twitch footwork, change of direction, body control and running back-specific drills, Whitfield said.
Bell has posted several videos of himself running routes or pulling a weight sled. The Steelers can watch those videos, but otherwise Bell might as well be galaxies away as the team grinds away in Latrobe.
Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger said he has sent a few unanswered texts to Bell and has no idea when Bell will return. When he does, the team will welcome him. But for now, they are moving on.
Brown's Bentley wheels wait for no one.
</header>
LATROBE, Pa. -- Le'Veon Bell's absence from Steelers camp couldn't have been more stark Thursday. Antonio Brown, who has lobbied for Bell to join him in camp for the start of what the Steelers hope will be a Super Bowl push, made a slick, one-handed catch over the middle during practice, prompting coach Mike Tomlin to jokingly challenge him to catch the ball with no hands."Show me your new [stuff]," Tomlin said.
That was Thursday afternoon, around the same time Bell posted Snapchat videos of himself working out in South Florida.
Those scenarios will continue, at least for a few more days.
Bell is consulting with Elite Footwork specialist Rischad Whitfield in Miami for a five-day stretch that ends early next week, Whitfield told ESPN.
"I feel sorry for these opposing teams' defenses this season," Whitfield said. "Le'Veon will be hell to deal with on the field. It's the best I've seen him look, train. His focus is incredible and super-driven and determined to be the best RB in the NFL."
Bell's workouts with Whitfield all but ensure Bell won't report to the Steelers until the middle of next week, at the earliest, because of a contract impasse. A late August return seems more likely.
Over this five-day stretch, Bell will be working on quick-twitch footwork, change of direction, body control and running back-specific drills, Whitfield said.
Bell has posted several videos of himself running routes or pulling a weight sled. The Steelers can watch those videos, but otherwise Bell might as well be galaxies away as the team grinds away in Latrobe.
Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger said he has sent a few unanswered texts to Bell and has no idea when Bell will return. When he does, the team will welcome him. But for now, they are moving on.
Brown's Bentley wheels wait for no one.
</header>
Titans' Corey Davis (hamstring) to miss at least a week.
The Titans' quest to wrest the division crown from the Texans has hit a slight snag on the offensive side.
A day after Corey Davis underwent an MRI on his hamstring, Titans coach Mike Mularkey said on WGFX-FM the first-round pick will be out at least a week, and will be week-to-week from there.
Hamstrings are delicate injuries for receivers, because they're easily aggravated and don't heal quickly. Simply, the quickest way to get back on the field is to shut the player down and do nothing but rest and treatment.
Davis has been playing the role of X receiver alongside Rishard Matthews and Eric Decker, with the latter likely taking Davis' reps while the rookie is away. Davis will also suffer the results of missing time and practice with quarterback Marcus Mariota, delaying their acclimation.
One look at Davis' college film tells you everything you need to know about why Tennessee selected him fifth overall. When we'll see that on an NFL field remains to be determined.
The Titans' quest to wrest the division crown from the Texans has hit a slight snag on the offensive side.
A day after Corey Davis underwent an MRI on his hamstring, Titans coach Mike Mularkey said on WGFX-FM the first-round pick will be out at least a week, and will be week-to-week from there.
Hamstrings are delicate injuries for receivers, because they're easily aggravated and don't heal quickly. Simply, the quickest way to get back on the field is to shut the player down and do nothing but rest and treatment.
Davis has been playing the role of X receiver alongside Rishard Matthews and Eric Decker, with the latter likely taking Davis' reps while the rookie is away. Davis will also suffer the results of missing time and practice with quarterback Marcus Mariota, delaying their acclimation.
One look at Davis' college film tells you everything you need to know about why Tennessee selected him fifth overall. When we'll see that on an NFL field remains to be determined.
14 things we learned at NFL camp on Friday.
As the second week of training camp creeps to a close, are we any closer to a quarterback decision in Denver, where Trevor Siemian and Paxton Lynch are locked in battle for the starting role?
"I think today you actually saw some separation," NFL Network's James Palmer reported Friday. "In my opinion, watching all the seven-on-seven and 11-on-11 drills, Trevor Siemian really had a better day than Paxton Lynch."
A raw performer as a rookie, Lynch gave way on Friday to Siemian, who showed better mastery of the attack after 14 mostly solid starts for the Broncos a year ago.
"You saw after Lynch had a couple of struggling reps, Trevor Siemian comes in, runs the play action, throws a dime into the quarter of the end zone for a touchdown," Palmer said. "The next play, play action, would have been a touchdown, but [was] dropped by tight end Jeff Heuerman in the end zone. Siemian looking just more poised in the spot."
After practice, first-year coach Vance Joseph complimented Siemian for having a "good day" and for consistently "changing plays at the line of scrimmage" to benefit the offense.
It's just one practice, but Saturday will cook up more hard-boiled evidence when the Broncos engage in their intrasquad scrimmage.
Dolphins chasing Cutler?
Here's where the Ryan Tannehill saga sits as we click publish: The Miami Dolphins have yet to decide the way ahead with their starting quarterback, who left practice Thursday after injuring his left knee -- the same one he tore up a year ago.
Coach Adam Gase said Friday that no decision has been reached on whether Tannehill will go under the knife or simply rest the knee. Both options are being weighed.
"[We're] talking to a lot of people, just making sure we're getting all the right information, and then we'll make a decision after that," Gase said. "Everything is on the table right now. We're going to talk to a lot of people."
One of those people? Jay Cutler. Hours after Gase told reporters Friday that "right now, [backup] Matt [Moore] is our quarterback," NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported that Cutler, the passer-turned-broadcaster, is already pondering a comeback: We'll be sure to update this space as the narrative in South Beach evolves.
As the second week of training camp creeps to a close, are we any closer to a quarterback decision in Denver, where Trevor Siemian and Paxton Lynch are locked in battle for the starting role?
"I think today you actually saw some separation," NFL Network's James Palmer reported Friday. "In my opinion, watching all the seven-on-seven and 11-on-11 drills, Trevor Siemian really had a better day than Paxton Lynch."
A raw performer as a rookie, Lynch gave way on Friday to Siemian, who showed better mastery of the attack after 14 mostly solid starts for the Broncos a year ago.
"You saw after Lynch had a couple of struggling reps, Trevor Siemian comes in, runs the play action, throws a dime into the quarter of the end zone for a touchdown," Palmer said. "The next play, play action, would have been a touchdown, but [was] dropped by tight end Jeff Heuerman in the end zone. Siemian looking just more poised in the spot."
After practice, first-year coach Vance Joseph complimented Siemian for having a "good day" and for consistently "changing plays at the line of scrimmage" to benefit the offense.
It's just one practice, but Saturday will cook up more hard-boiled evidence when the Broncos engage in their intrasquad scrimmage.
Here's what else we learned during Friday's action:
Dolphins chasing Cutler?
Here's where the Ryan Tannehill saga sits as we click publish: The Miami Dolphins have yet to decide the way ahead with their starting quarterback, who left practice Thursday after injuring his left knee -- the same one he tore up a year ago.
Coach Adam Gase said Friday that no decision has been reached on whether Tannehill will go under the knife or simply rest the knee. Both options are being weighed.
"[We're] talking to a lot of people, just making sure we're getting all the right information, and then we'll make a decision after that," Gase said. "Everything is on the table right now. We're going to talk to a lot of people."
One of those people? Jay Cutler. Hours after Gase told reporters Friday that "right now, [backup] Matt [Moore] is our quarterback," NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported that Cutler, the passer-turned-broadcaster, is already pondering a comeback:
We'll be sure to update this space as the narrative in South Beach evolves.
FOLK-AGUAYO UPDATE
The sexiest position battle in the NFL has taken a decisive turn in Tampa, where second-year kicker Roberto Aguayo has shined in back-to-back sessions in his high-octane tussle with veteran Nick Folk. "[He was] lights-out," Bucs coach Dirk Koetter said Friday, one day after Aguayo went 7-for-7 during a two-hour practice. "Best day of training camp, best day in a long time. He looked great [on Friday] ... Roberto was money on both ends. I don't think he missed all day. Yeah, he was money."
Odds and Ends
1. We have fresh quarterback data from Houston, where wideout DeAndre Hopkins strongly backed veteran Tom Savage: "If anybody should be a judge of quarterbacks, I've played with the most quarterbacks in NFL history throughout my first four years," Hopkins said, per ESPN's Dan Graziano. "So I put the stamp on Savage, and I think that's all that needs to be said about that."
2. Set to be enshrined into the Hall of Fame on Saturday, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones spent part of Friday talking about Ezekiel Elliott. On the subject of potential league-mandated punishment for the star running back, Jones told reporters, per ESPN: "I do not anticipate a suspension."
3. The ultra-consistent Steelers announced Friday that Mike Tomlin inked a contract extension that will keep him with the team through 2020.
4. Is James Harrison -- one of Tomlin's charges -- destined for Canton? How about Matt Ryan? NFL Network's Gregg Rosenthal offers up his list of players teetering on the Hall of Fame bubble.
5. In-house Patriots watchdog Dan Hanzus posted an End Around missive about a blazing display of hubris out of New England, where the world champs have already shipped playoff tickets to season-ticket holders. They aren't the only team to follow such a practice, but Hanzus notes: "The Pats also presuppose that an eighth consecutive first-round bye is a mere formality. The package does not include tickets to a Wild Card-round home affair."
Arrogance? Or a crystal-clear peek into the future from shadowy powerbrokers in the know? I'm beginning to side with astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, who claims the possibility of our universe being nothing more than a simulation run by next-level puppeteers "may be very high."
6. Speaking of the Patriots: People keep asking Tom Brady about Gisele Bundchen's springtime suggestion that he sustained a concussion last year -- and he keeps not answering those queries, telling scribes Friday: "I don't really think that's anybody's business."
7. You don't often hear Colts coach Chuck Pagano gush over a rookie, but he couldn't contain himself in talking about fourth-round running back Marlon Mack, saying of the former USF star: "He jumps off the tape. He's popping out there," per Zak Keefer of The Indianapolis Star. "... He's not afraid to stick his face in there and pick up blitzers. ... And then he's a weapon out of the backfield on third down."
8. Anyone else growing tired of the "I'm playing past 40" line from every quarterback worth a damn?
9. NFL Media writer/spaceman Conor Orr penned a vibrant recap of the Hall of Fame Game for those who spent the night engaged in other human activities.
Transaction Corner
The banged-up Ravens signed former Raiders tackle Austin Howard to a three-year, $16 million deal with $5.5 million in guarantees. Scanning their cap situation, it's fair to wonder if the move would preclude Baltimore from pursuing Kaepernick. ... The Jets also picked up free-agent defensive lineman Devon Still, who's toiled in days past for the Texans and Bengals.
Injury Omnibus
Andrew Luck isn't the only Colts starter with a shoulder issue. Pagano announced that wideout Donte Moncrief has been sidelined with an AC joint sprain. ... Giants coach Ben McAdoo revealed that Sterling Shepard's ankle MRI showed nothing serious, with the receiver telling NFL Network's Kimberly Jones: "Oh yeah, I'll be ready for Week 1." ... Broncos safety T.J. Ward suffered a hamstring injury in practice on Friday. ... Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce missed practice with a swollen knee, but coach Andy Reid said: "He'll be fine." ... Bang it here for our full injury roundup.
As the second week of training camp creeps to a close, are we any closer to a quarterback decision in Denver, where Trevor Siemian and Paxton Lynch are locked in battle for the starting role?
"I think today you actually saw some separation," NFL Network's James Palmer reported Friday. "In my opinion, watching all the seven-on-seven and 11-on-11 drills, Trevor Siemian really had a better day than Paxton Lynch."
A raw performer as a rookie, Lynch gave way on Friday to Siemian, who showed better mastery of the attack after 14 mostly solid starts for the Broncos a year ago.
"You saw after Lynch had a couple of struggling reps, Trevor Siemian comes in, runs the play action, throws a dime into the quarter of the end zone for a touchdown," Palmer said. "The next play, play action, would have been a touchdown, but [was] dropped by tight end Jeff Heuerman in the end zone. Siemian looking just more poised in the spot."
After practice, first-year coach Vance Joseph complimented Siemian for having a "good day" and for consistently "changing plays at the line of scrimmage" to benefit the offense.
It's just one practice, but Saturday will cook up more hard-boiled evidence when the Broncos engage in their intrasquad scrimmage.
Dolphins chasing Cutler?
Here's where the Ryan Tannehill saga sits as we click publish: The Miami Dolphins have yet to decide the way ahead with their starting quarterback, who left practice Thursday after injuring his left knee -- the same one he tore up a year ago.
Coach Adam Gase said Friday that no decision has been reached on whether Tannehill will go under the knife or simply rest the knee. Both options are being weighed.
"[We're] talking to a lot of people, just making sure we're getting all the right information, and then we'll make a decision after that," Gase said. "Everything is on the table right now. We're going to talk to a lot of people."
One of those people? Jay Cutler. Hours after Gase told reporters Friday that "right now, [backup] Matt [Moore] is our quarterback," NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported that Cutler, the passer-turned-broadcaster, is already pondering a comeback: We'll be sure to update this space as the narrative in South Beach evolves.
As the second week of training camp creeps to a close, are we any closer to a quarterback decision in Denver, where Trevor Siemian and Paxton Lynch are locked in battle for the starting role?
"I think today you actually saw some separation," NFL Network's James Palmer reported Friday. "In my opinion, watching all the seven-on-seven and 11-on-11 drills, Trevor Siemian really had a better day than Paxton Lynch."
A raw performer as a rookie, Lynch gave way on Friday to Siemian, who showed better mastery of the attack after 14 mostly solid starts for the Broncos a year ago.
"You saw after Lynch had a couple of struggling reps, Trevor Siemian comes in, runs the play action, throws a dime into the quarter of the end zone for a touchdown," Palmer said. "The next play, play action, would have been a touchdown, but [was] dropped by tight end Jeff Heuerman in the end zone. Siemian looking just more poised in the spot."
After practice, first-year coach Vance Joseph complimented Siemian for having a "good day" and for consistently "changing plays at the line of scrimmage" to benefit the offense.
It's just one practice, but Saturday will cook up more hard-boiled evidence when the Broncos engage in their intrasquad scrimmage.
Here's what else we learned during Friday's action:
Dolphins chasing Cutler?
Here's where the Ryan Tannehill saga sits as we click publish: The Miami Dolphins have yet to decide the way ahead with their starting quarterback, who left practice Thursday after injuring his left knee -- the same one he tore up a year ago.
Coach Adam Gase said Friday that no decision has been reached on whether Tannehill will go under the knife or simply rest the knee. Both options are being weighed.
"[We're] talking to a lot of people, just making sure we're getting all the right information, and then we'll make a decision after that," Gase said. "Everything is on the table right now. We're going to talk to a lot of people."
One of those people? Jay Cutler. Hours after Gase told reporters Friday that "right now, [backup] Matt [Moore] is our quarterback," NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported that Cutler, the passer-turned-broadcaster, is already pondering a comeback:
We'll be sure to update this space as the narrative in South Beach evolves.
FOLK-AGUAYO UPDATE
The sexiest position battle in the NFL has taken a decisive turn in Tampa, where second-year kicker Roberto Aguayo has shined in back-to-back sessions in his high-octane tussle with veteran Nick Folk. "[He was] lights-out," Bucs coach Dirk Koetter said Friday, one day after Aguayo went 7-for-7 during a two-hour practice. "Best day of training camp, best day in a long time. He looked great [on Friday] ... Roberto was money on both ends. I don't think he missed all day. Yeah, he was money."
Odds and Ends
1. We have fresh quarterback data from Houston, where wideout DeAndre Hopkins strongly backed veteran Tom Savage: "If anybody should be a judge of quarterbacks, I've played with the most quarterbacks in NFL history throughout my first four years," Hopkins said, per ESPN's Dan Graziano. "So I put the stamp on Savage, and I think that's all that needs to be said about that."
2. Set to be enshrined into the Hall of Fame on Saturday, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones spent part of Friday talking about Ezekiel Elliott. On the subject of potential league-mandated punishment for the star running back, Jones told reporters, per ESPN: "I do not anticipate a suspension."
3. The ultra-consistent Steelers announced Friday that Mike Tomlin inked a contract extension that will keep him with the team through 2020.
4. Is James Harrison -- one of Tomlin's charges -- destined for Canton? How about Matt Ryan? NFL Network's Gregg Rosenthal offers up his list of players teetering on the Hall of Fame bubble.
5. In-house Patriots watchdog Dan Hanzus posted an End Around missive about a blazing display of hubris out of New England, where the world champs have already shipped playoff tickets to season-ticket holders. They aren't the only team to follow such a practice, but Hanzus notes: "The Pats also presuppose that an eighth consecutive first-round bye is a mere formality. The package does not include tickets to a Wild Card-round home affair."
Arrogance? Or a crystal-clear peek into the future from shadowy powerbrokers in the know? I'm beginning to side with astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, who claims the possibility of our universe being nothing more than a simulation run by next-level puppeteers "may be very high."
6. Speaking of the Patriots: People keep asking Tom Brady about Gisele Bundchen's springtime suggestion that he sustained a concussion last year -- and he keeps not answering those queries, telling scribes Friday: "I don't really think that's anybody's business."
7. You don't often hear Colts coach Chuck Pagano gush over a rookie, but he couldn't contain himself in talking about fourth-round running back Marlon Mack, saying of the former USF star: "He jumps off the tape. He's popping out there," per Zak Keefer of The Indianapolis Star. "... He's not afraid to stick his face in there and pick up blitzers. ... And then he's a weapon out of the backfield on third down."
8. Anyone else growing tired of the "I'm playing past 40" line from every quarterback worth a damn?
9. NFL Media writer/spaceman Conor Orr penned a vibrant recap of the Hall of Fame Game for those who spent the night engaged in other human activities.
Transaction Corner
The banged-up Ravens signed former Raiders tackle Austin Howard to a three-year, $16 million deal with $5.5 million in guarantees. Scanning their cap situation, it's fair to wonder if the move would preclude Baltimore from pursuing Kaepernick. ... The Jets also picked up free-agent defensive lineman Devon Still, who's toiled in days past for the Texans and Bengals.
Injury Omnibus
Andrew Luck isn't the only Colts starter with a shoulder issue. Pagano announced that wideout Donte Moncrief has been sidelined with an AC joint sprain. ... Giants coach Ben McAdoo revealed that Sterling Shepard's ankle MRI showed nothing serious, with the receiver telling NFL Network's Kimberly Jones: "Oh yeah, I'll be ready for Week 1." ... Broncos safety T.J. Ward suffered a hamstring injury in practice on Friday. ... Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce missed practice with a swollen knee, but coach Andy Reid said: "He'll be fine." ... Bang it here for our full injury roundup.
DeShone Kizer making case to be Browns starting QB.
What is that sound steamrolling down the tracks? What is that deep choo-choo screaming louder by the moment?
It's the DeShone Kizer Hype Train barreling towards us.
The rookie second-round pick has edged ahead in the quarterback battle with Cody Kessler and Brock Osweiler to open the Cleveland Browns' preseason.
Veteran beat reporter Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer wrote Kizer not only won the first seven days of training camp, but "it's not even close."
The Browns' scrimmage Friday could cement Kizer's place atop the depth chart for next Thursday, when Cleveland hosts the New Orleans Saints to open the preseason.
Coach Hue Jackson made sure to pump the breaks on the Kizer hype train, noting that the starter to open the preseason might not keep the job by the time the real games begin.
"I will say to all of you -- me making a decision who may start the game may not be who's the starter for the season, too," Jackson said. "I mean I still have to go through the process. Next week, the guy that starts might not still be the starter in my mind unless that's where I am.
"I told you guys I'm not going to rush. ... It's too important of a decision to get right for our football team. So I love the pressure you guys put on but I'm not succumbing to it."
In the best of worlds, Kizer would out-and-out win the starting job. The rookie owns more physical talents than the milquetoast Kessler (who seems destined to own a decade-long backup role in the NFL) and the train-wreck Osweiler (who NFL Network's Aditi Kinkhabwala reported this week hasn't sniffed starting snaps during camp). If he picks up the mental side, Kizer should leave the two other quarterbacks in his dust.
It remains early in the process, but when a veteran beat reporter is openly willing to say a rookie was the clear winner, we shouldn't take it lightly.
Getting a long look at Kizer this season would be the best-case scenario for the perennially rebuilding Browns. Of course, given their luck, that probably means Kizer will lose a finger to gangrene over the weekend -- sorry, Browns fans.
What is that sound steamrolling down the tracks? What is that deep choo-choo screaming louder by the moment?
It's the DeShone Kizer Hype Train barreling towards us.
The rookie second-round pick has edged ahead in the quarterback battle with Cody Kessler and Brock Osweiler to open the Cleveland Browns' preseason.
Veteran beat reporter Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer wrote Kizer not only won the first seven days of training camp, but "it's not even close."
The Browns' scrimmage Friday could cement Kizer's place atop the depth chart for next Thursday, when Cleveland hosts the New Orleans Saints to open the preseason.
Coach Hue Jackson made sure to pump the breaks on the Kizer hype train, noting that the starter to open the preseason might not keep the job by the time the real games begin.
"I will say to all of you -- me making a decision who may start the game may not be who's the starter for the season, too," Jackson said. "I mean I still have to go through the process. Next week, the guy that starts might not still be the starter in my mind unless that's where I am.
"I told you guys I'm not going to rush. ... It's too important of a decision to get right for our football team. So I love the pressure you guys put on but I'm not succumbing to it."
In the best of worlds, Kizer would out-and-out win the starting job. The rookie owns more physical talents than the milquetoast Kessler (who seems destined to own a decade-long backup role in the NFL) and the train-wreck Osweiler (who NFL Network's Aditi Kinkhabwala reported this week hasn't sniffed starting snaps during camp). If he picks up the mental side, Kizer should leave the two other quarterbacks in his dust.
It remains early in the process, but when a veteran beat reporter is openly willing to say a rookie was the clear winner, we shouldn't take it lightly.
Getting a long look at Kizer this season would be the best-case scenario for the perennially rebuilding Browns. Of course, given their luck, that probably means Kizer will lose a finger to gangrene over the weekend -- sorry, Browns fans.
Injuries: Cardinals' T.J. Logan (wrist) out for 12 weeks.
It's bad news for Cardinals rookie running back T.J. Logan.
Coach Bruce Arians said Ward has a dislocated wrist and will need surgery. He will be out for 12 weeks, the team announced.
The fifth-round pick out of UNC, who was expected to contribute early as a returner, suffered the injury during Thursday night's loss to the Cowboys in the Hall of Fame Game.
In other injury news, Arians said that it is "very iffy" whether wide receiver John Brown will play in Arizona's second preseason game against Oakland. Brown has been sidelined with a quad injury since last week.
Arians added that outside linebacker Jarvis Jones has an injured disc in his back and should miss a week at the most.
Here are the other injuries we are monitoring on Saturday:
1. Denver Broncos safety T.J. Ward has a minor hamstring injury and will not play vs. the Chicago Bears on Thursday, according to Nick Kosmider with the Denver Post. Ward suffered the injury during practice on Friday.
2. The San Francisco 49ers will not have Malcolm Smith this season. An MRI revealed Smith suffered a torn pectoral muscle during practice Saturday and he will miss the entire 2017 season, a source informed of the situation told NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport. The 49ers later confirmed the injury.
Niners guard Josh Garnett is dealing with a knee injury, per The Sacramento Bee. The Bee reported Garnett is expected to miss practice time, but the injury is not thought to be season-ending. Shanahan said surgery is an option for Garnett.
3. New York Jets wide receiver Quincy Enunwa suffered a neck injury during practice, but coach Todd Bowles said after practice he didn't know the severity of the injury. Bowles said running back Matt Forte (hamstring) and rookie safety Jamal Adams (ankle) are still day to day.
4. Washington Redskins outside linebacker Preston Smith will miss some time after suffering a sprained ankle on Thursday, The Washington Post reports. Washington coach Jay Gruden told reporters Smith's foot is in a boot and the linebacker is expected to miss "a week or two." Smith's absence frees up more first-team snaps for rookie Ryan Anderson and veteran Junior Galette.
5. Cleveland Browns coach Hue Jackson told reporters that third-year wide receiver Jordan Leslie has a possible concussion after he was hit in the head in Saturday's practice.
6. Oakland Raiders safety Keith McGill is reportedly out indefinitely with a Jones fracture. The Las Vegas ***************'s Michael Gehlken reports McGill, a backup in Oakland' secondary, will undergo surgery and miss a good amount of time.
7. Tennessee Titans linebacker Victor Ochi suffered a torn ACL in Friday's practice, the team announced.
It's bad news for Cardinals rookie running back T.J. Logan.
Coach Bruce Arians said Ward has a dislocated wrist and will need surgery. He will be out for 12 weeks, the team announced.
The fifth-round pick out of UNC, who was expected to contribute early as a returner, suffered the injury during Thursday night's loss to the Cowboys in the Hall of Fame Game.
In other injury news, Arians said that it is "very iffy" whether wide receiver John Brown will play in Arizona's second preseason game against Oakland. Brown has been sidelined with a quad injury since last week.
Arians added that outside linebacker Jarvis Jones has an injured disc in his back and should miss a week at the most.
Here are the other injuries we are monitoring on Saturday:
1. Denver Broncos safety T.J. Ward has a minor hamstring injury and will not play vs. the Chicago Bears on Thursday, according to Nick Kosmider with the Denver Post. Ward suffered the injury during practice on Friday.
2. The San Francisco 49ers will not have Malcolm Smith this season. An MRI revealed Smith suffered a torn pectoral muscle during practice Saturday and he will miss the entire 2017 season, a source informed of the situation told NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport. The 49ers later confirmed the injury.
Niners guard Josh Garnett is dealing with a knee injury, per The Sacramento Bee. The Bee reported Garnett is expected to miss practice time, but the injury is not thought to be season-ending. Shanahan said surgery is an option for Garnett.
3. New York Jets wide receiver Quincy Enunwa suffered a neck injury during practice, but coach Todd Bowles said after practice he didn't know the severity of the injury. Bowles said running back Matt Forte (hamstring) and rookie safety Jamal Adams (ankle) are still day to day.
4. Washington Redskins outside linebacker Preston Smith will miss some time after suffering a sprained ankle on Thursday, The Washington Post reports. Washington coach Jay Gruden told reporters Smith's foot is in a boot and the linebacker is expected to miss "a week or two." Smith's absence frees up more first-team snaps for rookie Ryan Anderson and veteran Junior Galette.
5. Cleveland Browns coach Hue Jackson told reporters that third-year wide receiver Jordan Leslie has a possible concussion after he was hit in the head in Saturday's practice.
6. Oakland Raiders safety Keith McGill is reportedly out indefinitely with a Jones fracture. The Las Vegas ***************'s Michael Gehlken reports McGill, a backup in Oakland' secondary, will undergo surgery and miss a good amount of time.
7. Tennessee Titans linebacker Victor Ochi suffered a torn ACL in Friday's practice, the team announced.
This third-round pick has some serious star potential.
Ex-receiver Chad Johnson visited Detroit Lions training camp as a guest on Friday. Normally, a former player hanging out with a team in August wouldn't peak our interest, but the loquacious Johnson had one interesting takeaway from his visit.
Rookie receiver Kenny Golladay caught the eye of the man formerly known as Ochocinco. Johnson heaped praise on the Lions' 6-foot-4, third-round pick.
Golladay has earned praise throughout offseason workouts and into training camp. The rookie's size and length is desperately needed in a munchkin Lions receiving corps. According to MLive's Kyle Meinke, Golladay has taken most of his reps with the second team during camp. It wouldn't surprise us, however, if the rookie eventually took over the Anquan Boldin-role from last season.
"I've seen steady improvement," coach Jim Caldwell said of his rookie receiver. "He's got a ways to go yet, but he's got height. He's got ability. He's got the drive and work ethic to try and improve each and every day."
If Golladay continues to impress in the preseason, he could thrive as a big target for Matthew Stafford, especially in the red zone where the Lions were mediocre last season.
Ex-receiver Chad Johnson visited Detroit Lions training camp as a guest on Friday. Normally, a former player hanging out with a team in August wouldn't peak our interest, but the loquacious Johnson had one interesting takeaway from his visit.
Rookie receiver Kenny Golladay caught the eye of the man formerly known as Ochocinco. Johnson heaped praise on the Lions' 6-foot-4, third-round pick.
Golladay has earned praise throughout offseason workouts and into training camp. The rookie's size and length is desperately needed in a munchkin Lions receiving corps. According to MLive's Kyle Meinke, Golladay has taken most of his reps with the second team during camp. It wouldn't surprise us, however, if the rookie eventually took over the Anquan Boldin-role from last season.
"I've seen steady improvement," coach Jim Caldwell said of his rookie receiver. "He's got a ways to go yet, but he's got height. He's got ability. He's got the drive and work ethic to try and improve each and every day."
If Golladay continues to impress in the preseason, he could thrive as a big target for Matthew Stafford, especially in the red zone where the Lions were mediocre last season.
[h=1]Niners LB Malcolm Smith (pectoral) out for season.[/h]The San Francisco 49ers' vaunted front seven lost a key member on Saturday.
Niners linebacker Malcolm Smith is out for the season with a torn pectoral, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Saturday, per sources informed of Smith's situation. The 49ers later confirmed the injury.
Smith joined the 49ers from Oakland this offseason on a hefty five-year, $26.5 million deal with $13 million in guaranteed money. The former Super Bowl MVP will now sit out the first year of that contract.
The absence of Smith in a crowded San Francisco linebacking room opens the door -- if it wasn't already broken down -- for rookie LB Reuben Foster, who has been showing out in the early goings of training camp. Expect Foster to start the season in Smith's stead next to NaVorro Bowman and Ahmad Brooks.
Niners linebacker Malcolm Smith is out for the season with a torn pectoral, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Saturday, per sources informed of Smith's situation. The 49ers later confirmed the injury.
Smith joined the 49ers from Oakland this offseason on a hefty five-year, $26.5 million deal with $13 million in guaranteed money. The former Super Bowl MVP will now sit out the first year of that contract.
The absence of Smith in a crowded San Francisco linebacking room opens the door -- if it wasn't already broken down -- for rookie LB Reuben Foster, who has been showing out in the early goings of training camp. Expect Foster to start the season in Smith's stead next to NaVorro Bowman and Ahmad Brooks.
[h=1]J.J. Watt to play in Houston Texans' preseason opener.[/h]J.J. Watt will return to the football field for the first time in nearly 11 months next Wednesday, and he won't be on the sidelines.
The Texans defensive end will play in Houston's first preseason game against the Panthers, coach Bill O'Brien told reporters Saturday. It will be Watt's first game action since Week 3 of 2016.
Watt sat out most of 2016 with a back injury, but has been practicing without serious incident in Texans camp so far. His return and the emergence of a healthy Jadeveon Clowney have Texans coaches and fans salivating over the front seven's potential.
While we doubt Watt and Clowney will play more than one series, much less one quarter, against Carolina, our first glimpse of the dynamic duo in action since last September should be enough to quench our thirst for Texans hype.
The Texans defensive end will play in Houston's first preseason game against the Panthers, coach Bill O'Brien told reporters Saturday. It will be Watt's first game action since Week 3 of 2016.
Watt sat out most of 2016 with a back injury, but has been practicing without serious incident in Texans camp so far. His return and the emergence of a healthy Jadeveon Clowney have Texans coaches and fans salivating over the front seven's potential.
While we doubt Watt and Clowney will play more than one series, much less one quarter, against Carolina, our first glimpse of the dynamic duo in action since last September should be enough to quench our thirst for Texans hype.
Jamaal Williams pushing Montgomery for starter reps?
Green Bay Packers rookie running back Jamaal Williams separated himself from the pack. Now can he make a move on starter Ty Montgomery's snaps? Heading into training camp, we pondered which rookie runner would step up to push Montgomery for playing time. Williams was the easy guess. Through one week of practices, the fourth-round pick has already earned first-team reps.
Veteran ESPN reporter Rob Demovsky notes that Williams has already "started to push" Montgomery. The rookie even took the first snaps of Thursday night's practice.
We won't make too much out of the running back rotation early in camp when tackling still isn't taking place, but the news is a good sign the coaching staff trusts Williams already.
Williams entered the NFL out of BYU owning the ability to hit the crease and is a capable receiver out of the backfield. What has set him apart at this stage, according to reporters, is his ability to pass protect -- something Montgomery is still working on as he makes the full transition from running back to receiver.
"Obviously running the football, that's important," Packers offensive coordinator Edgar Bennett said. "Catching the football as a receiver out of the backfield as well, [and] going back to the pass protection, you can't stress it enough as far as the overall importance of being able to be in sync with that protection unit, the offensive line and understanding the role they play in the protection game."
We expect Montgomery to take the bulk of snaps when games matter, but Williams' progress will be something to keep an eye on during preseason games. If the rookie forces his way onto the field, the Packers' offense can become even more diverse.
Green Bay Packers rookie running back Jamaal Williams separated himself from the pack. Now can he make a move on starter Ty Montgomery's snaps? Heading into training camp, we pondered which rookie runner would step up to push Montgomery for playing time. Williams was the easy guess. Through one week of practices, the fourth-round pick has already earned first-team reps.
Veteran ESPN reporter Rob Demovsky notes that Williams has already "started to push" Montgomery. The rookie even took the first snaps of Thursday night's practice.
We won't make too much out of the running back rotation early in camp when tackling still isn't taking place, but the news is a good sign the coaching staff trusts Williams already.
Williams entered the NFL out of BYU owning the ability to hit the crease and is a capable receiver out of the backfield. What has set him apart at this stage, according to reporters, is his ability to pass protect -- something Montgomery is still working on as he makes the full transition from running back to receiver.
"Obviously running the football, that's important," Packers offensive coordinator Edgar Bennett said. "Catching the football as a receiver out of the backfield as well, [and] going back to the pass protection, you can't stress it enough as far as the overall importance of being able to be in sync with that protection unit, the offensive line and understanding the role they play in the protection game."
We expect Montgomery to take the bulk of snaps when games matter, but Williams' progress will be something to keep an eye on during preseason games. If the rookie forces his way onto the field, the Packers' offense can become even more diverse.
[h=1]Position battle to watch for all 32 NFL teams.[/h]
[h=2]AFC EAST[/h]
[h=2]Buffalo Bills[/h]Middle linebacker
First-year coach Sean McDermott had one of the NFL's best defensive players in Luke Kuechly during his tenure as the Panthers' defensive coordinator. There is not a player with nearly the range and instincts as Kuechly on the Bills' roster. Incumbent starter Preston Brown, a third-round pick in 2014, has taken all of the first-team reps so far in training camp, but 2016 second-round pick Reggie Ragland -- who missed all of last season with a torn ACL -- is considered part of the competition. Ragland has run with the second team to this point. -- Mike Rodak
[h=2]Miami Dolphins[/h]Nickel corner
The Dolphins don't have many true position battles in camp, but one to keep an eye on is the nickel position, which is essentially another starter on defense. Incumbent Bobby McCain was up and down last season in the nickel, and the team signed seven-year veteran Alterraun Verner to compete with McCain. Verner has the edge in experience but must learn a new defense quickly to win the job in training camp. This race should be close throughout the preseason. -- James Walker
[h=2]New England Patriots[/h]Inside linebacker
The signing of veteran David Harris in June could have a significant trickle-down effect on the rest of the group, as it seems like the coaching staff has big plans for Harris. One indication of this is how Harris was wearing the green dot on his helmet as the primary communicator and leader of the huddle as drills began during the first full-pads practice of camp. So with Harris a top candidate to play alongside Dont'a Hightower, what does that mean for other linebackers such as Shea McClellin, Kyle Van Noy, Elandon Roberts and Jonathan Freeny? -- Mike Reiss
[h=2]New York Jets[/h]Quarterback
Journeyman Josh McCown is ahead of Christian Hackenberg and Bryce Petty, based on his exclusive work with the first-team offense, but this isn't a done deal. Chances are, coach Todd Bowles will takes three preseason games before naming his starter. It'll probably come down to McCown and Hackenberg; there already are signs that Petty is falling out of the race. -- Rich Cimini
[h=2]AFC EAST[/h]
First-year coach Sean McDermott had one of the NFL's best defensive players in Luke Kuechly during his tenure as the Panthers' defensive coordinator. There is not a player with nearly the range and instincts as Kuechly on the Bills' roster. Incumbent starter Preston Brown, a third-round pick in 2014, has taken all of the first-team reps so far in training camp, but 2016 second-round pick Reggie Ragland -- who missed all of last season with a torn ACL -- is considered part of the competition. Ragland has run with the second team to this point. -- Mike Rodak
The Dolphins don't have many true position battles in camp, but one to keep an eye on is the nickel position, which is essentially another starter on defense. Incumbent Bobby McCain was up and down last season in the nickel, and the team signed seven-year veteran Alterraun Verner to compete with McCain. Verner has the edge in experience but must learn a new defense quickly to win the job in training camp. This race should be close throughout the preseason. -- James Walker
The signing of veteran David Harris in June could have a significant trickle-down effect on the rest of the group, as it seems like the coaching staff has big plans for Harris. One indication of this is how Harris was wearing the green dot on his helmet as the primary communicator and leader of the huddle as drills began during the first full-pads practice of camp. So with Harris a top candidate to play alongside Dont'a Hightower, what does that mean for other linebackers such as Shea McClellin, Kyle Van Noy, Elandon Roberts and Jonathan Freeny? -- Mike Reiss
Journeyman Josh McCown is ahead of Christian Hackenberg and Bryce Petty, based on his exclusive work with the first-team offense, but this isn't a done deal. Chances are, coach Todd Bowles will takes three preseason games before naming his starter. It'll probably come down to McCown and Hackenberg; there already are signs that Petty is falling out of the race. -- Rich Cimini
AFC NORTH
Baltimore Ravens
Tight end
This is the most wide-open battle for a starting job. The competition is between Benjamin Watson, who is coming off an Achilles injury; Nick Boyle, who has a total of 24 catches in two NFL seasons; Maxx Williams, who hasn't played since last October because of knee surgery; Larry Donnell, who was signed Sunday; and Ryan Malleck, who is on his third team in two years. This is what happens when three tight ends are already lost for the season -- Dennis Pitta (hip) and Darren Waller (suspension) and Crockett Gillmore (knee). -- Jamison Hensley
Cincinnati Bengals
Running back
Just how will the Bengals use their running backs now that they have three solid options among Giovani Bernard, Jeremy Hill and Joe Mixon? If the Bengals' history is any indication, Hill will likely exit camp as the starting back. But the talented rookie Mixon could push him every step of the way. -- Katherine Terrell
Cleveland Browns
Quarterback
Why should 2017 be different from all the Browns' other seasons since 1999? The Browns won't be a complete team until they identify and nurture their long-term quarterback. Camp opened with uncertainty about whether Cody Kessler, Brock Osweiler or DeShone Kizer would start. The position probably won't clear until mid-August, when the Browns will have to start giving starter reps to one of the three. -- Pat McManamon
Pittsburgh Steelers
Wide receiver
The Steelers can't count on Martavis Bryant until he's reinstated by the NFL, and with Sammie Coates and JuJu Smith-Schuster nursing injuries early in camp, Justin Hunter has impressed with his athletic catches over the first four days of camp. When all options are on the field at once, however, plays must be made to earn significant snaps. -- Jeremy Fowler
Tight end
This is the most wide-open battle for a starting job. The competition is between Benjamin Watson, who is coming off an Achilles injury; Nick Boyle, who has a total of 24 catches in two NFL seasons; Maxx Williams, who hasn't played since last October because of knee surgery; Larry Donnell, who was signed Sunday; and Ryan Malleck, who is on his third team in two years. This is what happens when three tight ends are already lost for the season -- Dennis Pitta (hip) and Darren Waller (suspension) and Crockett Gillmore (knee). -- Jamison Hensley
Running back
Just how will the Bengals use their running backs now that they have three solid options among Giovani Bernard, Jeremy Hill and Joe Mixon? If the Bengals' history is any indication, Hill will likely exit camp as the starting back. But the talented rookie Mixon could push him every step of the way. -- Katherine Terrell
Quarterback
Why should 2017 be different from all the Browns' other seasons since 1999? The Browns won't be a complete team until they identify and nurture their long-term quarterback. Camp opened with uncertainty about whether Cody Kessler, Brock Osweiler or DeShone Kizer would start. The position probably won't clear until mid-August, when the Browns will have to start giving starter reps to one of the three. -- Pat McManamon
Wide receiver
The Steelers can't count on Martavis Bryant until he's reinstated by the NFL, and with Sammie Coates and JuJu Smith-Schuster nursing injuries early in camp, Justin Hunter has impressed with his athletic catches over the first four days of camp. When all options are on the field at once, however, plays must be made to earn significant snaps. -- Jeremy Fowler
