Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn is excited that wide receiver Terry McLaurin is back o...

Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn is excited that wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87889" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87889">Terry McLaurin</a> is back on the practice field after not participating in on-field work since spring workouts."I love coaching him," Quinn said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46090938/commanders-embrace-terry-mclaurin-return-practice-field">ESPN's John Keim</a>. "He is a rare competitor."McLaurin ended his hold-in on Monday, agreeing to a three-year extension worth up to $96 million that includes a $30-million signing bonus with $45 million guaranteed. The deal is structured so Washington can save money against the cap if it chooses to release or trade McLaurin after the 2026 season, according to <a href="https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/player/_/id/29112/terry-mclaurin">Spotrac</a>. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Ohio State product had only one year left on his contract. McLaurin vocally expressed his frustrations with the negotiating process in mid-July, and ultimately requested a trade a couple weeks later.However, McLaurin said he met with general manager Adam Peters multiple times since reporting to camp, helping lead to the agreement."We had a lot of cool conversations," general manager Adam Peters said of the negotiating process with the veteran wideout. "You get optimistic, pessimistic, all those different things throughout the process. But what we never lost was our love and respect and really admiration for Terry and what he does for us on and off the field."The 30-year-old has led Washington in receiving yards in every season since he was drafted in the third round of the 2019 draft. Last year was arguably his best year in the league, posting 82 catches for 1,096 yards and a career-high 13 touchdowns. Washington will kick off its season on Sept. 7 versus the New York Giants.

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JANUARY 18: Terry McLaurin #17 of the Washington Commanders looks on during an NFL Football game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on January 18, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Commanders relieved to have 'rare competitor' McLaurin back at practice

Dallas Cowboys head coach hinted at the possibility of star pass-rusher Micah Parsons playing lim...

Dallas Cowboys head coach hinted at the possibility of star pass-rusher Micah Parsons playing limited snaps in the season-opener against the Philadelphia Eagles if he does suit up. "At the end of the day as soon as he can get out there, that's great, but again there will be a ramp-up plan for him," Schottenheimer said Tuesday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46082633/schottenheimer-says-parsons-need-ramp-return">ESPN's Todd Archer</a>."And when he lines up out there to play, do I think he would play 75 plays and every play? Probably not. I don't think that that's real. But I do think that he can be very disruptive like we all know."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Parsons has yet to practice this summer due to a contract impasse with the team. Other players who were sitting out of practices, like Terry McLaurin and Trey Hendrickson, ended their disputes after agreeing to contract resolutions with their respective clubs.The 26-year-old is also dealing with a back injury. However, an MRI on the issue came back "pretty clean," according to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3330120" href="https://thescore.com/news/3330120">Schottenheimer</a>. Parsons was spotted without a Cowboys jersey on while lying down on the medical table during Friday's preseason finale against the Atlanta Falcons.Schottenheimer said after the game that he would have a private discussion with Parsons about his etiquette during the contest. The head coach refused to go into detail Tuesday about how that conversation went.Parsons is in the final year of his rookie deal, which holds a $24-million base salary after the club exercised his fifth-year option. Owner and general manager Jerry Jones <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3329048" href="https://thescore.com/news/3329048">told</a> former Cowboys star Michael Irvin that Parsons' agent nixed a deal that he and the edge rusher personally negotiated in March. The public contract standoff has been ongoing for months, which has included a trade request from Parsons."Every day that he can get out there and get reps would be great," Schottenheimer added. "But I do think very strongly that him being around has helped him."Doing some of the walk-throughs and things like that, it does help. There's communication, there's signals that come from the sideline, there's communication from player to player that he's getting all those things."Dallas will face the Eagles on Sept. 4 in the league's first game of the 2025 season.

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - AUGUST 22: Micah Parsons #11 of the Dallas Cowboys lays on a training table during the second half of the NFL Preseason 2025 game against the Atlanta Falcons at AT&T Stadium on August 22, 2025 in Arlington, Texas.

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Schottenheimer: Parsons will need 'ramp-up' when he returns

The Los Angeles Chargers released quarterback Taylor Heinicke on Tuesday, opening the door for Tr...

The Los Angeles Chargers released quarterback Taylor Heinicke on Tuesday, opening the door for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161664" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161664">Trey Lance</a> to become Justin Herbert's backup.Lance, 25, was signed to a one-year deal worth up to $2 million this offseason. He spent the last two seasons with the Dallas Cowboys, appearing in four games with just one start during that span. The former third overall pick came out firing in the preseason, completing 13 of 20 passes for 120 yards and two touchdowns in Los Angeles' 34-7 victory over the Detroit Lions in the Hall of Fame Game. He led all Chargers signal-callers in passing yards this preseason with 334.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Heinicke, 32, spent last season as Herbert's backup, but didn't see any significant playing time with Herbert starting all 17 games. Lance owns a 2-3 record in five starts across four seasons. He has 1,063 passing yards with five touchdowns and four interceptions since entering the NFL.

INGLEWOOD, CA - AUGUST 10: Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Trey Lance (5) throws a pass in the third quarter of an NFL preseason football game between the New Orleans Saints and the Los Angeles Chargers, Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025, in Inglewood, California.

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Chargers' Lance set to be Herbert's backup after Heinicke's release

Ohio State head coach Ryan Day has a particular message for quarterback Julian Sayin ahead of his...

Ohio State head coach Ryan Day has a particular message for quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/195816" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/195816">Julian Sayin</a> ahead of his first career start against No. 1-ranked Texas. "Just win. Find a way to win," Day told reporters Tuesday, including the <a href="https://x.com/BigTenNetwork/status/1960386726473470329">Big Ten Network</a>. He added, "We're gonna take it one play at a time. He's got a good group of guys around him. He's got a good defense, he's got good special teams, a good offensive line, good skill guys - he needs to lean into those players and find a way to win the game. We'll try to get him into a rhythm and then go from there."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Sayin was named the Buckeyes' starter after separating himself from junior passer Lincoln Kienholz during fall camp. The California native initially committed to Alabama but transferred to Ohio State after coach Nick Saban retired.The 20-year-old was a five-star recruit and the <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-sports/football/recruiting/rankings/scnext300boys/_/class/2024/order/true">ESPN 300</a>'s No. 2-ranked quarterback in the 2024 class. Sayin attempted 12 passes in relief duty last year and threw his first career touchdown pass against Western Michigan in September.Sayin will have plenty of weapons on offense to work with, including star wideout Jeremiah Smith, who hauled in 76 catches for 1,315 yards and 15 touchdowns during his freshman season to propel Ohio State to a national title.Ohio State's matchup with Texas is expected to be the top game on the Week 1 slate. Arch Manning, who was named Texas' starter after sitting behind Quinn Ewers for two seasons, is the Heisman betting favorite entering the season."Athletic; a big, strong arm; smart; quick release; accurate - all of the above," Day said of Manning, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/46080550/ohio-state-julian-sayin-told-just-win-first-start-vs-texas">ESPN's Jake Trotter</a>. "I mean, he checks every box."The Buckeyes and Longhorns will face off at 12 p.m. ET on Saturday.

EAST LANSING, MICHIGAN - SEPTEMBER 28: Julian Sayin #10 of the Ohio State Buckeyes drops back to pass during the second half against the Michigan State Spartans at Spartan Stadium on September 28, 2024 in East Lansing, Michigan.

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Ohio State's Day shares message to Sayin vs. No. 1 Texas: 'Just win'

The Atlanta Falcons placed offensive tackle Kaleb McGary on season-ending injured reserve with a ...

The Atlanta Falcons placed offensive tackle Kaleb McGary on season-ending injured reserve with a leg injury, the team announced Tuesday.McGary suffered the injury at practice last Wednesday. He was carted off and didn't return to the field.The 30-year-old has been Atlanta's primary starting right tackle since he entered the league as a first-round pick in 2019. McGary signed a two-year, $30-million extension in early August to avoid hitting free agency at the end of the 2025 campaign. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>McGary was expected to be the blind side protector for left-handed quarterback Michael Penix Jr. Now, Elijah Wilkinson is projected to fill in at right tackle. The 30-year-old Wilkinson is entering his ninth NFL season and has made 45 starts during his career.Atlanta kicks off its season against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sept. 7.

LAS VEGAS, NV - DECEMBER 16: Kaleb McGary #76 of the Atlanta Falcons celebrates after an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on December 16, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Falcons' McGary placed on season-ending IR with leg injury

The Cleveland Browns traded quarterback Kenny Pickett to the Las Vegas Raiders for a 2026 fifth-r...

The Cleveland Browns traded quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/173994" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/173994">Kenny Pickett</a> to the Las Vegas Raiders for a 2026 fifth-round pick, the teams announced Monday.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188217" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188217">Aidan O'Connell</a>, who was projected to be <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/13368" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/13368">Geno Smith</a>'s backup in Las Vegas, is expected to miss six-to-eight weeks with a broken wrist.Pickett did not appear in a preseason game for the Browns due to a hamstring injury he suffered in late July. However, the former first-round pick has returned to doing on-field work at practice.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Cleveland acquired Pickett from the Philadelphia Eagles in March for signal-caller <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188280" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188280">Dorian Thompson-Robinson</a> and a 2026 fifth-round selection.Pickett joins <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174211" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174211">Sam Howell</a> as the only two players in the last 30 years to be traded three-plus times in their first four NFL seasons, according to <a href="https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/1960133557898064351">NFL Network's Tom Pelissero</a>.With Pickett heading to the Raiders, the Browns' quarterback depth chart now features starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/2945" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/2945">Joe Flacco</a> plus rookies <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209984" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209984">Dillon Gabriel</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210099" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210099">Shedeur Sanders</a>.Pickett appeared in five regular-season contests for the Eagles last year, completing 25 of 42 passes for 291 yards with two touchdowns and one interception. The 27-year-old holds a 15-10 record as a starter across three seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Eagles.

BEREA, OHIO - JULY 26: Quarterback Kenny Pickett #8 of the Cleveland Browns passes during training camp at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus on July 26, 2025 in Berea, Ohio.

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Browns trade Pickett to Raiders

The Las Vegas Raiders are signing wide receiver Amari Cooper to a one-year, $3.5-million contract...

The Las Vegas Raiders are signing wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/60608" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/60608">Amari Cooper</a> to a one-year, $3.5-million contract that can reach up to $6 million with incentives, sources told <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1960159179663867986">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>.Cooper spent the 2024 season with the Cleveland Browns and Buffalo Bills. The five-time Pro Bowler was a member of the Raiders for four years after they selected him in the first round of the 2015 draft.The 31-year-old had interest from other clubs, including the San Francisco 49ers, but opted to return to the team that drafted him, according to <a href="https://x.com/DMRussini/status/1960093747078918304">The Athletic's Dianna Russini</a>. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Cooper suited up in 14 contests last season, totaling 547 receiving yards and four touchdowns. The Browns shipped Cooper to the Bills at the trade deadline for draft-pick compensation.The Alabama product will join a Las Vegas wide receiver room that includes Jakobi Meyers, Tre Tucker, and rookie Dont'e Thornton Jr. Meyers, who set a career high in receiving yards last season with 1,027, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3331193" href="https://thescore.com/news/3331193">reportedly</a> requested a trade out of Vegas after the two sides failed to agree on an extension. However, the Raiders don't plan on trading him. Cooper recorded 3,183 receiving yards and 19 touchdowns in 47 games with the Raiders from 2015 to 2018 before he was traded to the Dallas Cowboys.The Raiders will kick off their season on Sept. 7 against the New England Patriots.

PHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 25: Amari Cooper #89 of the Oakland Raiders looks on prior to the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on December 25, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Report: Raiders, Cooper reunite on 1-year deal worth up to $6M

Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders said he expects to make the 53-man roster despite st...

Cleveland Browns quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210099" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210099">Shedeur Sanders</a> said he expects to make the 53-man roster despite struggling in the team's final preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams."Obviously," Sanders responded when asked if he belongs on the Browns for the 2025 season, according to <a href="https://x.com/AlbertBreer/status/1959599815408447526">Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer</a>. "I think, overall, as a player, I've put in the work. I feel like everything I do, I try to do it to my best, and that's all I can ask for."Sanders started the second half of Saturday's contest and completed just three of six passes for 14 yards. He was sacked five times, including a play early in the fourth quarter that resulted in a 24-yard loss.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
.<a href="https://twitter.com/RamsNFL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RamsNFL</a> close in and notch their 5th sack of the day Watch on <a href="https://twitter.com/nflnetwork?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NFLNetwork</a> Stream on <a href="https://twitter.com/NFLPlus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NFLPlus</a> <a href="https://t.co/rO3jk9q09S">pic.twitter.com/rO3jk9q09S</a>— NFL (@NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1959337414679199909?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Head coach Kevin Stefanski opted to pull Sanders for Tyler Huntley on the final drive while down 17-16 with just over two minutes remaining. Huntley led Cleveland to a game-winning field goal to secure the victory.However, the Browns released Huntley on Sunday after the club signed him just a few weeks ago, a source told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1959697391344361799">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>."We didn't play great as an offense in the second half. That's never on one person," Stefanski <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3329958" href="https://thescore.com/news/3329958">said</a> on why Sanders didn't finish the game. "We can be better in a bunch of areas and just felt like we wanted to give Snoop (Huntley) a last drive."Sanders, selected in the fifth round of the 2025 draft, produced a solid preseason debut earlier in August, totaling 157 yards and two touchdowns with a 106.8 passer rating. Sanders didn't suit up in the Browns' second preseason game due to an oblique injury."I feel like everybody feels like they should be on the team," Sanders added Saturday. "If you ask anybody on the team, would they feel like they belong - they belong in their own eyes. I feel like I do, but I'm my own player. I think about myself in a high regard, of course. It's not my decision."Cleveland named veteran quarterback Joe Flacco its starter earlier this week. Browns general manager Andrew Berry said this weekend that he's in favor of keeping four quarterbacks on the roster when the season opens, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46058395/keeping-4-quarterbacks-not-much-decision">ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi</a>.Flacco, Sanders, Kenny Pickett, and Dillon Gabriel are the four signal-callers currently on the depth chart.

CLEVELAND, OHIO - AUGUST 23: Shedeur Sanders #12 of the Cleveland Browns looks on during the fourth quarter of an NFL Preseason 2025 game against the Los Angeles Rams at Huntington Bank Field on August 23, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Shedeur confident he'll make Browns roster despite struggling vs. Rams

The Minnesota Vikings are signing quarterback Carson Wentz after agreeing to trade backup signal-...

The Minnesota Vikings are signing quarterback Carson Wentz after agreeing to trade backup signal-caller Sam Howell to the Philadelphia Eagles, sources told <a href="https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/1959623350315368813">NFL Network's Tom Pelissero</a>.Philadelphia will send a 2026 fifth-round pick and a seventh-round selection in the 2027 draft to Minnesota for a 2026 sixth-round pick and Howell, the teams announced Sunday. Wentz has been a free agent after spending last season with the Kansas City Chiefs. He's now set to be J.J. McCarthy's backup this year after Minnesota's quarterback room shuffle. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 32-year-old started the final regular-season game for the Chiefs in 2024 when the team rested the majority of its starters. He completed 10 of 17 passes for 98 yards with zero touchdowns in a blowout loss to the Denver Broncos. Wentz was with the Los Angeles Rams in 2023 and a starter for the Washington Commanders in 2022.Philadelphia selected Wentz second overall in 2016. He was dealt to the Indianapolis Colts for a first-round pick after losing the starting job to Jalen Hurts in 2021.The Seahawks traded Howell to the Vikings this offseason after Seattle acquired him from the Commanders in 2024. Howell didn't start a game for the Seahawks last season. The 24-year-old was Washington's starter in 2023, throwing for 3,946 yards with 21 touchdowns and a league-leading 21 interceptions. Tanner McKee, who's set to be Hurts' backup this year, is dealing with a fractured thumb, sources told <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1959682675284873552">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>. The 25-year-old didn't practice this week or suit up in the Eagles' final preseason contest. Head coach Nick Sirianni told reporters following Friday's game that he's uncertain if McKee will be ready for the season opener.

DENVER, COLORADO - JANUARY 05: Carson Wentz #11 of the Kansas City Chiefs throws a pass in the first quarter against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field At Mile High on January 05, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

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Report: Vikings sign Wentz, trade Howell to Eagles

Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders will return from an oblique injury Saturday and play...

Cleveland Browns quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210099" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210099">Shedeur Sanders</a> will return from an oblique injury Saturday and play in the preseason finale against the Los Angeles Rams, barring a setback, head coach Kevin Stefanski told reporters Thursday, according to <a href="https://x.com/MaryKayCabot/status/1958574836424319310">Cleveland.com's Mary Kay Cabot</a>.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/2945" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/2945">Joe Flacco</a> and the offensive starters will also play Saturday for the first time this preseason, Stefanski added. Rookie Dillon Gabriel will replace Flacco when he's pulled from the game, with Sanders taking the reins after Gabriel.Quarterback Kenny Pickett, who returned to practice last week after a hamstring injury, will remain sidelined and miss Saturday's contest.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Sanders suffered the oblique injury on Aug. 13 and didn't play in Cleveland's second preseason game after starting the opener. He returned to the field this week and participated in team drills Wednesday.The 23-year-old impressed in his preseason debut earlier in August, completing 14 of 23 passes for 138 passing yards and two touchdowns. Gabriel started last weekend, totaling 144 yards with zero touchdowns and two turnovers.Flacco, 40, was named Cleveland's Week 1 starter. However, the Browns' quarterback depth chart remains uncertain ahead of the team's regular-season opener on Sept. 7.

PHILADELPHIA, PA - AUGUST 16: Shedeur Sanders #12 of the Cleveland Browns looks on from the sideline during an NFL preseason football game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on August 16, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Browns' Sanders to play in preseason finale, Flacco will start

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers plan to activate wide receiver Chris Godwin off the physically unable to...

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers plan to activate wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87115" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87115">Chris Godwin</a> off the physically unable to perform list and will have him on the 53-man roster to begin the season, sources told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1958515522527539536">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.Although Godwin likely won't play in a game until October, activating the 29-year-old will allow him to begin his ramp-up process as he continues to recover from a broken ankle suffered last October, adds Schefter. The veteran wideout is reportedly expected to start practicing in Week 2.All-Pro left tackle Tristan Wirfs, who's recovering from knee surgery, will also start the year on the 53-man roster, head coach Todd Bowles told reporters Thursday, per <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1958530064556929435">Schefter</a>. Bowles added that Wirfs will miss time to start the season and has a similar recovery timeline to Godwin's.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Godwin re-signed with the Buccaneers in free agency on a three-year, $66-million contract with $45 million guaranteed. He apparently had higher offers from other teams but decided to take less money to remain in Tampa Bay.The former Pro Bowler was having a terrific 2024 campaign before suffering the season-ending injury, totaling 50 receptions for 576 receiving yards and five touchdowns in seven contests.Tampa Bay will also be without second-year wide receiver Jalin McMillan to start the campaign, as he's expected to be placed on injured reserve with a strained neck. Mike Evans and first-round rookie Emeka Egbuka are set to receive a heavy workload until Godwin returns.The Buccaneers kick off their season against the Atlanta Falcons on Sept. 7.

TAMPA, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 21: Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers warms up prior to an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens at Raymond James Stadium on October 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida.

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Report: Bucs to activate Godwin off PUP, unlikely to play until October

Seven head coaches lost their jobs last season, and we can expect a similar number to be let go t...

Seven head coaches lost their jobs last season, and we can expect a similar number to be let go this campaign.Here are five coaches who must flip the script this year to avoid hitting the open market:<h3>Shane Steichen, Colts</h3>The Colts released a statement after the 2024 season finale indicating that Steichen and general manager Chris Ballard would return for the 2025 campaign. Whenever an organization feels the need to let fans know its coach isn't going anywhere, the hourglass has been turned over.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Indy's offense ranks 24th in success rate during Steichen's two-year tenure, according to <a href="https://rbsdm.com/stats/stats/">Ben Baldwin's database</a>. The Colts brought in the former Philadelphia Eagles play-caller to elevate the offense, and they haven't gotten the results they were hoping for. Yes, the quarterback play has been mediocre at best, but developing Anthony Richardson was Steichen's primary task, and the coaching staff has failed to accomplish that. Steichen has now decided to roll with Daniel Jones as his starter after the Colts signed the signal-caller to a one-year deal this offseason.The 28-year-old Jones is 24-44-1 as an NFL starter and ranked 28th among 31 qualifying quarterbacks in EPA/play over the last two years, and it's hard to believe Steichen can resurrect Jones' career. Jim Irsay's three daughters now own the Colts following his passing in May, and they likely won't hesitate to clean house and build the team in their vision if the 2025 season follows a similar pattern to previous years. Thermometer: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 (out of five)<h3>Brian Daboll, Giants</h3>Daboll's tenure as the Giants' head coach has spiraled downward after a divisional round appearance in his first season at the helm. New York has a 9-25 record since.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798160/cropped_GettyImages-2230500687.jpg?ts=1755692407" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798160/w220xh124_GettyImages-2230500687.jpg?ts=1755692407 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798160/w320xh180_GettyImages-2230500687.jpg?ts=1755692407 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798160/w640xh360_GettyImages-2230500687.jpg?ts=1755692407 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798160/w768xh432_GettyImages-2230500687.jpg?ts=1755692407 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798160/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2230500687.jpg?ts=1755692407 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Ishika Samant / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Joe Schoen and the Giants' front office have invested a significant amount of resources in the defensive line that should shine in 2025, but Daboll needs to get the offense back on track. New York ranks 30th in EPA/play from 2023 to 2024 and has averaged less than 16 points per game during that stretch. The quarterback play should improve with Russell Wilson expected to be the Week 1 starter, but he was available for only $10.5 million this offseason and is no longer considered a top-tier signal-caller. Outside of the quarterback position, the Giants returned 10 of their offensive starters from last season.The franchise moved up in the first round to select Jaxson Dart in the 2025 draft, but he might not see the field this year. He's undoubtedly the future under center for New York, and ownership will have to decide if they believe Daboll is the best coach to lead his development. Thermometer: 🔥🔥🔥🔥<h3>Zac Taylor, Bengals</h3>The Cincinnati Bengals are a combined 1-11 in Weeks 1 and 2 under Taylor. Their slow start to the 2024 campaign crippled them, and winning their last five games wasn't enough to secure a playoff spot.Unless the Bengals get off the ground running this year, Taylor could feel the heat. The offense has all the talent a head coach can ask for - Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins are arguably the best quarterback and wide receiver combination in the league.The defense doesn't have a ton of talent, and its best player, Trey Hendrickson, is currently holding out, but Taylor already fired his longtime defensive coordinator, Lou Anarumo. Coaches usually don't get a chance to hire a third defensive coordinator, so Taylor needs Al Golden to create immediate success.Cincinnati's 18-16 record over the last two seasons has to have ownership on its toes. The Bengals have invested a significant amount of money in their offense and have to capitalize on Burrow's prime. If the Bengals' head coaching job became vacant after this season, any offensive mind in the NFL would jump at the opportunity to fill it. Thermometer: 🔥🔥🔥🔥<h3>Mike McDaniel, Dolphins</h3>McDaniel is entering his fourth season as head coach and is considered one of the league's top offensive minds. When Tua Tagovailoa has been healthy over the last three years, the offense has produced solid numbers. However, Tagovailoa suffered a severe concussion last campaign, and the team struggled in his absence and missed the playoffs.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798161/cropped_GettyImages-2229589186.jpg?ts=1755692537" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798161/w220xh124_GettyImages-2229589186.jpg?ts=1755692537 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798161/w320xh180_GettyImages-2229589186.jpg?ts=1755692537 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798161/w640xh360_GettyImages-2229589186.jpg?ts=1755692537 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798161/w768xh432_GettyImages-2229589186.jpg?ts=1755692537 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798161/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2229589186.jpg?ts=1755692537 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Justin Casterline / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>McDaniel has guided the Dolphins to a 28-23 record with zero postseason victories. Miami has ranked inside the top 11 in cash spending in each of McDaniel's four years, according to <a href="https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/cash">Spotrac</a>. Ownership could get impatient with the 42-year-old if he doesn't generate playoff success this season, especially if the Dolphins get off to a slow start. They'll play three divisional games in their first four contests, and a couple of losses early on would make McDaniel's seat hot. Thermometer: 🔥🔥🔥​​​​​​<h3>Kevin Stefanski, Browns</h3>Stefanski has won the Coach of the Year award twice since joining the Browns in 2020, but he still holds a losing record in five seasons. Cleveland is coming off a 3-14 campaign, and the franchise seems to be heading in the wrong direction.The Browns have the second-toughest schedule this season, according to <a href="https://www.sharpfootballanalysis.com/analysis/nfl-strength-of-schedule/">Sharp Football Analysis</a>. Cleveland's first five games of the year are against teams with a combined 61-24 regular-season record in 2024. There's a realistic scenario in which Cleveland is 0-5 heading into a divisional matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers.Cleveland acquired the Jacksonville Jaguars' 2026 first-round pick in April, giving the Browns the ammo to move up in next year's draft to select a signal-caller. If they don't see Shedeur Sanders or Dillon Gabriel as the franchise's answer, the Haslam family may want a clean slate of offensive coaches to pair with a new quarterback. Thermometer: 🔥🔥🔥​​​​​​

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NFL coaching hot seat: 5 head coaches whose jobs are on the line

The Chicago Bears signed quarterback Tyson Bagent to a two-year, $10-million extension that can r...

The Chicago Bears signed quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188930" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188930">Tyson Bagent</a> to a two-year, $10-million extension that can reach $16 million with incentives, his agents told <a href="https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/1958201097211810283">NFL Network's Tom Pelissero</a>.Bagent couldn't hide his emotions as he discussed the extension's importance to him and his family. <figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Tyson Bagent on what his contract extension means for his family 🥹 <a href="https://twitter.com/ChicagoBears?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChicagoBears</a> <a href="https://t.co/pq8BMISCBw">pic.twitter.com/pq8BMISCBw</a>— NFL (@NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1958284180707578213?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Bagent, who's been with the Bears since signing as an undrafted free agent in 2023, is projected to be Caleb Williams' backup this upcoming season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 25-year-old started four games in his rookie year after Justin Fields suffered an injury. Bagent secured a 30-12 victory in his first career start but lost the next three contests.He had an impressive performance Sunday in Chicago's last preseason game against the Buffalo Bills, throwing for 196 yards on 13 completions. Bagent's standout highlight came on a touchdown pass to Tyler Scott in the back of the end zone while on the move.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Tyson Bagent on the move and finds Tyler Scott in the back of the end zone! Watch on FOX Stream on <a href="https://twitter.com/NFLPlus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NFLPlus</a> <a href="https://t.co/udr7HcPWWa">pic.twitter.com/udr7HcPWWa</a>— NFL (@NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1957249221125677251?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Bagent has 870 passing yards with three touchdowns and six interceptions entering his third NFL season.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - AUGUST 17: Tyson Bagent #17 of the Chicago Bears looks to pass against the Buffalo Bills during the NFL Preseason 2025 game between Buffalo Bills and Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on August 17, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Bears sign Bagent to 2-year extension worth up to $16M

The New England Patriots are open to trading safety Kyle Dugger, sources told NFL Insider Jordan ...

The New England Patriots are open to trading safety <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/149401" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/149401">Kyle Dugger</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/Schultz_Report/status/1958188432003363265">NFL Insider Jordan Schultz</a>.Dugger played well into the fourth quarter of New England's last preseason game and hasn't been on the field with the starting defense during practices. The 29-year-old signed a four-year, $58-million extension that includes $32.5 million guaranteed in 2024. Dugger's contract would likely complicate any potential trade, and the Patriots would have to be willing to eat some of his contract just to get conversations going with other teams, Schultz added.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>New England selected Dugger in the second round of the 2020 draft. He earned a starting job midway through his rookie campaign and has been a significant contributor on the team's defense for the last five years.The Lenoir–Rhyne product has 424 tackles, 24 passes defended, and nine interceptions in 74 career contests.

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 24: Kyle Dugger #23 of the New England Patriots stands on the sidelines during the national anthem prior to an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium on November 24, 2024 in Miami Gardens, Florida.

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Report: Patriots open to trading Dugger

The Minnesota Vikings are exploring veteran wide receivers in the trade market, sources told NFL ...

The Minnesota Vikings are exploring veteran wide receivers in the trade market, sources told <a href="https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/1958132797115146654">NFL Network's Tom Pelissero</a>.No deal is imminent, but the team is pushing hard to acquire someone before the season begins, Pelissero adds. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188202" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188202">Jordan Addison</a>, the projected No. 2 wideout on the depth chart, will miss the first three games of the season due to a suspension for violating the league's personal conduct policy.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Vikings are also dealing with multiple injuries at the position. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174246" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174246">Jalen Nailor</a> is week-to-week with a hand ailment, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/122708" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/122708">Justin Jefferson</a> returned to practice Tuesday for the first time in almost a month due to a hamstring injury.Lucky Jackson, Tai Felton, and Jeshaun Jones are other wide receivers on the roster. None of the three players have recorded a reception in the NFL.Minnesota will kick off its 2025 campaign on Sept. 8 against the Chicago Bears.

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - AUGUST 09: Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell and general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah talk before the NFL preseason game between the Houston Texans and Minnesota Vikings on August 9th, 2025, in Minneapolis, MN.

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Report: Vikings looking to trade for veteran WR

Notre Dame has named CJ Carr as starting quarterback for their Week 1 matchup against Miami, the ...

Notre Dame has named <a data-in-app-uri="" href="">CJ Carr</a> as starting quarterback for their Week 1 matchup against Miami, the team announced Tuesday.The redshirt freshman beat out Kenny Minchey for the position. Head coach Marcus Freeman said in the spring that Carr and Minchey would battle for the starting signal-caller job at camp.Carr was an <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-sports/football/recruiting/rankings/scnext300boys/_/class/2024/view/position/position/quarterback-pocket-passer">ESPN 300</a> four-star recruit in the 2024 class and the second-ranked pocket passer behind Nebraska's Dylan Raiola. The 19-year-old is listed at 6-foot-3, 210 pounds.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Notre Dame is coming off a 14-2 season and a loss to Ohio State in the National Championship. Many players from the 2024 team are returning, including Jeremiah Love, who is widely considered one of the best running backs in college football.The Fighting Irish's offense ranked fifth in the FBS in points per contest last season. Riley Leonard, who was selected in the sixth round of the 2025 draft by the Indianapolis Colts, started all 16 games at quarterback in 2024.

SOUTH BEND, INDIANA - APRIL 12: CJ Carr #13 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish looks on during the 94th Annual Notre Dame Blue-Gold Spring Game at Notre Dame Stadium on April 12, 2025 in South Bend, Indiana.

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Notre Dame's Carr wins starting QB job

The Indianapolis Colts will start quarterback Daniel Jones in the season opener against the Miami...

The Indianapolis Colts will start quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97984" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97984">Daniel Jones</a> in the season opener against the Miami Dolphins, the team announced Tuesday."He's the starting quarterback for the season," head coach Shane Steichen said of Jones, according to the <a href="https://x.com/JoelAErickson/status/1957823924697182507">IndyStar's Joel A. Erickson</a>. "I don't want to have a short leash on that."The Colts signed Jones to a one-year, $14-million contract in the offseason. General manager Chris Ballard said Jones and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188125" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188125">Anthony Richardson</a> would compete for the starting job.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 28-year-old will be Indianapolis' sixth different Week 1 starter since 2019. The New York Giants selected Jones in the first round of the 2019 draft, and he's started 69 games during his six-year career.The Giants released Jones in late November, a few days after they benched him in favor of Tommy DeVito. He joined the Vikings' practice squad a week later, but never played a game for Minnesota. Jones' 24-44-1 record during his time in New York is the lowest winning percentage for a quarterback with at least 50 starts since 2019.Richardson will begin the campaign as Jones' backup. The 2023 fourth overall pick was benched for two contests last season after a rough start to the year. Of 38 quarterbacks who have taken at least 490 snaps since 2023, Richardson ranks 35th in success rate and last in completion percentage, according to <a href="https://rbsdm.com/stats/stats/">Ben Baldwin's database</a>.The 23-year-old Richardson has also struggled to stay healthy since entering the league. He made only four appearances as a rookie after undergoing shoulder surgery and missed time last year due to a back injury."You gotta respect the decision," Richardson said Tuesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/KBowen1070/status/1957848478639411221">Kevin Bowen of 1075 The Fan</a>. "They feel like he's (Jones) a better fit for the team, better fit for the outcome of us winning, so you just gotta respect it and keep working."That doesn't undermine any of the work that I've been putting in. It doesn't say that I haven't improved. I'm proud of the improvement I've made."Jones has thrown for over 14,500 yards in 70 career contests. He's also added 2,179 rushing yards with 85 total touchdowns. Indianapolis will kick off its season on Sept. 7.

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - AUGUST 16: Daniel Jones #17 of the Indianapolis Colts throws the ball during the NFL Preseason 2025 game between Green Bay Packers and Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on August 16, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Colts name Jones starter for Week 1

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford practiced for the first time in training camp Monda...

Los Angeles Rams quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/680" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/680">Matthew Stafford</a> practiced for the first time in training camp Monday after being sidelined with a back injury. <figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Matthew Stafford out at practice. 9️⃣ <a href="https://t.co/Gpae1kotVU">pic.twitter.com/Gpae1kotVU</a>— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/RamsNFL/status/1957479098588320052?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The veteran signal-caller participated in individual and team drills throughout Monday's session."I thought he did a good job today," Rams head coach Sean McVay said after practice, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46008932/rams-matthew-stafford-practices-first-training-camp">ESPN's Sarah Barshop</a>. "We had 26 plays of team, and he did a really nice job of managing the huddle. I thought he saw the field well, I thought he went where the ball should go, and there was some good competitive work on both sides today."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>McVay added that Los Angeles is still taking Stafford's injury day by day, and there's no update on how the team will handle his on-field practice work for the rest of the week.Stafford, who's dealing with an aggravated disk in his back, also took part in a throwing session on Aug. 9 and had no limitations."I think that would be putting the cart way before the horse," McVay said when asked if Stafford will be ready for the team's season opener against the Houston Texans on Sept. 7.The 37-year-old is under contract through the 2026 season with cap hits of over $45 million for each of the next two years. Stafford led the Rams to a Super Bowl victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2021 campaign and has a 34-23 regular-season record as the Rams' primary starter for the past four seasons.

Inglewood, CA - August 09: Quarterback Matthew Stafford #9 of the Los Angeles Rams in the first half of a pre-season NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood on Saturday, August 9, 2025.

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Rams' Stafford practices for first time at camp

Quarterback Joe Flacco will start in the Cleveland Browns' season opener against the Cincinnati B...

Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/2945" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/2945">Joe Flacco</a> will start in the Cleveland Browns' season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals, the team announced Monday.The 40-year-old gets the role after offensive coordinator Tommy Rees said in June that Flacco, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/173994" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/173994">Kenny Pickett</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210099" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210099">Shedeur Sanders</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209984" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209984">Dillon Gabriel</a> were in a four-man competition under center.Cleveland signed Flacco to a one-year, $4-million contract in April. He spent the 2024 season with the Indianapolis Colts, throwing for 1,761 yards with 12 touchdowns and seven interceptions. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Flacco already spent time in Cleveland, having joined the Browns' practice squad in the middle of the 2023 campaign and starting the final five games of the regular season. He went 4-1 over that span to take the Browns to the playoffs and eventually won the Comeback Player of the Year award.The veteran didn't suit up for Cleveland's first two preseason contests, as the team opted to start its rookies, Sanders and Gabriel, for one game each. Pickett, whom the Browns acquired in a trade from the Philadelphia Eagles, has not participated in team drills since injuring his hamstring in late July.The Baltimore Ravens selected Flacco in the first round of the 2008 draft. He's thrown for over 45,000 yards during his 17-year NFL career and was the MVP of Super Bowl XLVII, when the Ravens defeated the San Francisco 49ers.

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - AUGUST 08: Quarterback Joe Flacco #15 of the Cleveland Browns looks on prior to the NFL Preseason 2025 game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on August 08, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

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Browns name Flacco starter for Week 1 

Quarterback Julian Sayin will start Ohio State's Week 1 matchup against Texas, head coach Ryan Da...

Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/195816" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/195816">Julian Sayin</a> will start Ohio State's Week 1 matchup against Texas, head coach Ryan Day announced Monday.The redshirt freshman beat out Lincoln Kienholz for the position. Sayin was an <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-sports/football/recruiting/rankings/scnext300boys/_/class/2024/view/rn300/sort/rank">ESPN 300</a> five-star recruit in the 2024 class, ranking as the second quarterback behind only Florida's DJ Lagway. Sayin initially signed with Alabama but transferred to Ohio State once Nick Saban announced his retirement in January 2024. He only attempted 12 passes in 2024 while sitting behind starter Will Howard en route to the Buckeyes' National Championship win over Notre Dame.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 20-year-old will be the first Ohio State signal-caller with no previous starting experience to lead the team in Week 1 since C.J. Stroud in 2021.Ohio State averaged 35.7 points per contest in 2024, ranking ninth in all of college football. Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who took the NCAA by storm as a freshman last year, is set to be Sayin's top offensive target.Sayin will face off against Arch Manning and the Longhorns in the season opener on Aug. 30.

COLUMBUS, OHIO - APRIL 12: Quarterback Julian Sayin #10 of the Ohio State Buckeyes plays during the first half of the Ohio State Spring Game at Ohio Stadium on April 12, 2025 in Columbus, Ohio.

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Ohio State names Sayin starting QB

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