The Los Angeles Chargers are signing defensive back Elijah Molden to a three-year extension, sour...

The Los Angeles Chargers are signing defensive back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161841" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161841">Elijah Molden</a> to a three-year extension, sources told <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1892743587290325093">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>.The deal is worth $18.25 million with $13.5 million in guarantees, according to <a href="https://x.com/Schultz_Report/status/1892749517629366705">Fox Sports' Jordan Schultz</a>. Molden was set to become an unrestricted free agent in March.Molden was acquired from the Tennessee Titans in August for a 2026 seventh-round pick. He primarily played safety for the Chargers last season. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 26-year-old played in 15 games in 2024, 12 of which were starts, and totalled 75 tackles, seven pass deflections, and three interceptions. He was placed on season-ending injured reserve in late December after suffering a broken fibula.The Chargers' defense ranked seventh in passing yards last season and second in points allowed. Molden has 215 tackles and five interceptions in 48 career games.

LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 15: Elijah Molden #22 of the Los Angeles Chargers smiles during a game between Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium on December 15, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

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Report: Chargers signing Molden to 3-year extension

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown believes promoting Kevin Patullo to offensive coordi...

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/111194" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/111194">A.J. Brown</a> believes promoting Kevin Patullo to offensive coordinator will give the team a fresh look for the 2025 season."For our fans, they need to understand everything has to change," Brown said, according to <a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/eagles-a-j-brown-embraces-new-oc-hire-kevin-patullo-it-has-to-evolve">NFL Network's Nick Shook</a>. "I know we just won, but it has to change. We have to get better, and we have to do things different."Brown added: "But I truly feel like it's a great hire. He already has been involved in almost everything. Him, Kellen (Moore) and Nick (Sirianni) basically called the plays already."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Patullo replaced Moore after the latter took the New Orleans Saints' head coaching job. He's been Philadelphia's pass game coordinator since 2021 and held the role of associate head coach from 2023-2024.The Eagles' offense ranked fifth in points per game and sixth in EPA/play last season, according to <a href="https://rbsdm.com/stats/stats/">Ben Baldwin's database</a>. Saquon Barkley was the team's most productive weapon and led the league in rushing yards (2,005) while posting 15 total touchdowns.However, the passing game ranked 14th in success rate and 30th in passing yards per contest, and Brown was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3157222" href="https://thescore.com/news/3157222">forced</a> to answer questions about his relationship with quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/105247" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/105247">Jalen Hurts</a> in December.Hurts silenced his doubters in the final two games of the playoffs, throwing for 467 yards and three touchdowns in the NFC Championship and Super Bowl combined. His .51 EPA/dropback was the most efficient performance by any signal-caller in the Super Bowl since 2000, according to <a href="https://x.com/NoFlagsFilm/status/1888788063670669595">TruMedia</a>."It (the offense) has to change; it has to evolve," Brown said. "I don't know what wrinkles would look like, but we have to find ways to get better, you know? It's a lot of fame out there on us - we just won - and guys are gonna be coming at us. We're not the hunting anymore, we're the hunted. And we have to get better."Brown earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2024 after totaling 67 catches for 1,079 yards and seven touchdowns.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - FEBRUARY 09: A.J. Brown #11 of the Philadelphia Eagles runs during Super Bowl LIX against the Kansas City Chiefs at Caesars Superdome on February 09, 2025, in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Eagles defeated the Chiefs 40-22. (Kara Durrette/Getty Images)

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Eagles' Brown excited about Patullo's promotion: 'It's a great hire'

Dallas Cowboys guard Zack Martin informed the franchise he plans to retire after an 11-year NFL c...

Dallas Cowboys guard Zack Martin informed the franchise he plans to retire after an 11-year NFL career, sources told <a href="https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/1892699123528143104">NFL Network's Tom Pelissero</a>.Martin was selected in the first round of the 2014 draft and spent his entire career with the Cowboys. He earned seven first-team and two second-team All-Pro honors. His seven first-team nods are tied for the most by any guard in league history.Martin's nine All-Pro nominations are two more than the number of accepted holding penalties he had throughout his career. He allowed just 20 sacks during 3,127 pass-block snaps in 11 seasons, according to <a href="https://premium.pff.com/nfl/players/2024/REGPO/zack-martin/8651/offense-pass-blocking">PFF</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 34-year-old suited up in only 10 games last year after undergoing season-ending ankle surgery. It was the second time in his career that he played in fewer than 14 contests in a single campaign.The Notre Dame Product is considered one of the best offensive linemen of his era and is projected to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.Martin finishes his NFL career with 162 games played.

ARLINGTON, TX - NOVEMBER 10: Zack Martin #70 of the Dallas Cowboys looks on from the field during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles at AT&T Stadium on November 10, 2024 in Arlington, Texas.

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Report: Cowboys' Martin plans to retire after 11-year career

San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle believes that losing Deebo Samuel will require the te...

San Francisco 49ers tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/72637" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/72637">George Kittle</a> believes that losing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87611" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87611">Deebo Samuel</a> will require the team to rework its offense for the 2025 season as a trade for the wideout looms."You can't really replace Deebo. I think he's one of the most unique players in the NFL because of what he can do. Well, one, he's the greatest, best (yards-after-catch) guy besides myself," Kittle said on <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/videos/sports/sports-seriously/2025/02/18/george-kittle-talks-all-things-san-francisco-49ers/79100844007/">USA Today's "Seriously Sports</a>.""The fact that you can line him up in the slot, out wide, in the backfield and do all the fun stuff with him, and he breaks tackles, he runs like a running back, and he has the burst, he has the speed, he has the agility to get away from guys too. He's just such a unique player."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Kittle added: "I don't think you can really replace him. We're just going to have to build our offense a little bit differently because we don't have that available to us."San Francisco <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3193020" href="https://thescore.com/news/3193020">reportedly</a> permitted Samuel to seek a trade after the veteran asked to be dealt during the team's exit meetings. The 29-year-old has been with the 49ers since being drafted in the second round."It was a hard conversation to have with Kyle (Shanahan) because of the relationship that we have," Samuel said. "But I have to do what's best. I'm more than thankful for the Niners giving me the opportunity of a lifetime, but now I think it's best that we find another team."The South Carolina product is coming off a disappointing season, totaling 806 yards on 93 touches in 15 games. Samuel's four touchdowns are the fewest of his career since 2020, when he only suited up in seven contests.Samuel has one season remaining on a three-year, $73.5-million contract extension signed in 2022. He's scheduled to carry a $15.8-million cap hit next campaign and have a $33-million hit attached to a 2026 void year, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/player/deebo-samuel/7827">Over The Cap</a>."Deebo's a hell of a football player. I've loved being his teammate, I've loved sharing the field with him, I've loved going to war with him," Kittle said. "If that is what happens and he gets traded, I'll be very sad. But at the same time, I'm always happy for guys to get opportunities, and that's all you can ask for in the NFL."Samuel has 5,935 total yards and 42 touchdowns in 81 career games.

SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 29: San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle (85) celebrates a touchdown with San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. (1) during the NFL game between the New England Patriots and the San Francisco 49ers on September 29, 2024 at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, CA.

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Kittle admits 49ers 'can't really replace Deebo' as trade looms

The NFL offseason has arrived. Today, we look at the the top priorities for every NFC team.  Jump...

The NFL offseason has arrived. Today, we look at the the top priorities for every NFC team.Jump to: NFC North: <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#GB">GB</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> NFC South: <a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#CAR">CAR</a> | <a href="#NO">NO</a> | <a href="#TB">TB</a> ​​​ NFC East: <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#NYG">NYG</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#WAS">WAS</a> NFC West: <a href="#ARI">ARI</a> | <a href="#LAR">LAR</a> | <a href="#SEA">SEA</a> | <a href="#SF">SF</a><h3><a id="ARI" name="ARI">Arizona Cardinals</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770570/cropped_GettyImages-2192889683.jpg?ts=1739545076" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770570/w220xh124_GettyImages-2192889683.jpg?ts=1739545076 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770570/w320xh180_GettyImages-2192889683.jpg?ts=1739545076 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770570/w640xh360_GettyImages-2192889683.jpg?ts=1739545076 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770570/w768xh432_GettyImages-2192889683.jpg?ts=1739545076 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770570/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2192889683.jpg?ts=1739545076 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Brooke Sutton / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Add a fast wide receiver: Marvin Harrison Jr. is locked in as the Cardinals' top receiver, but adding a talented, speedy wideout to pair with him will open up the passing game for quarterback Kyler Murray.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Get younger on the offensive line: The offensive line is stocked with veterans. Injecting some youth and talent to play alongside left tackle Paris Johnson Jr. will help keep Murray healthy for years to come.Find a starting cornerback: Adding a bona fide starter to a young position group will help a secondary that finished around the middle of the pack last season.<h3><a id="ATL" name="ATL">Atlanta Falcons</a></h3>Pass-rush help: The Falcons haven't ranked inside the top 20 in sacks since 2017. Until this team gets a consistent pass rush, it will struggle to be a Super Bowl contender.Kirk Cousins: The 36-year-old has lost the starting job to Michael Penix Jr. Atlanta needs to decide on Cousins' future with the team, as the franchise will be forced to eat a $40-million dead cap hit if it releases him.Help Penix succeed: Drake London and Bijan Robinson are a solid start, but Penix could use more skill around him. Atlanta should be aggressive in adding pass-catching talent this offseason.<h3><a id="CAR" name="CAR">Carolina Panthers</a></h3>Surround Bryce Young with talent: With Young solidified as their quarterback in 2025, the Panthers need to add better help around him. Jalen Coker and Xavier Legette are promising pass-catchers, but the 23-year-old could use a No. 1 wide receiver.Fix the run defense: Carolina finished last in rushing yards per game allowed by a wide margin. It won't contend for an NFC South title unless it fixes its ground defense.Pass-rush help: The average NFL fan would struggle to name a 2024 Panthers pass-rusher outside of Jadeveon Clowney. They should be aggressive in adding edge rushers to this defense.<h3><a id="CHI" name="CHI">Chicago Bears</a></h3>Get Ben Johnson and Caleb Williams on the same page: Chicago landed the top head coach prospect on most peoples' lists. It won't mean anything if Johnson and the second-year quarterback aren't in sync entering the 2025 campaign.Upgrade pass protection: The Bears allowed more sacks than any other team last season (68). Improving Williams' blockers is imperative for keeping him healthy and developing him.Add at least one defensive playmaker: Plenty of Chicago's defenders are adequate, but the team needs to find explosive game-changers.<h3><a id="DAL" name="DAL">Dallas Cowboys</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770573/cropped_GettyImages-2189618878.jpg?ts=1739545200" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770573/w220xh124_GettyImages-2189618878.jpg?ts=1739545200 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770573/w320xh180_GettyImages-2189618878.jpg?ts=1739545200 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770573/w640xh360_GettyImages-2189618878.jpg?ts=1739545200 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770573/w768xh432_GettyImages-2189618878.jpg?ts=1739545200 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770573/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2189618878.jpg?ts=1739545200 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Cooper Neill / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Help Dak Prescott: The Cowboys are locked into Prescott for the foreseeable future. They need more talent around the QB in addition to receiver CeeDee Lamb to be Super Bowl contenders.Extend Micah Parsons: This should've been done already. Parsons is one of the best defensive players in football, and his price tag will continue to rise as time goes on. Draft a running back: This class is loaded with talent. If Dallas doesn't select Ashton Jeanty in the first round, owner-GM Jerry Jones should look to add one of the other top rushers in the draft.<h3><a id="DET" name="DET">Detroit Lions</a></h3>Integrate new coordinators: Head coach Dan Campbell needs to get offensive coordinator John Morton and defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard locked in early as the team replaces Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn, respectively.Add defensive talent: The Lions need more talent at all three levels of the defense. Corners and pass-rushers should be prioritized early and often.Add youthful depth to offensive line: Detroit's offensive line is among the best in the league, but adding some young players to develop behind the starters would be wise.<h3><a id="GB" name="GB">Green Bay Packers</a></h3>Add a WR1: Running back Josh Jacobs has already called for the Packers to add a top receiver. A reunion with Davante Adams could be a short-term solution if the Jets release him.Add pass-rushers: Lukas Van Ness has been underwhelming and Rashan Gary has never reached double-digit sacks in a season. New talent is needed to get after opposing quarterbacks.Move on from and replace Jaire Alexander: Alexander has played in only seven games each of the past two seasons, and the cornerback is scheduled to carry a cap hit just under $25 million in 2025, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/player/jaire-alexander/6903">Over the Cap</a>.<h3><a id="LAR" name="LAR">Los Angeles Rams</a></h3>Decide whether to keep or trade Matthew Stafford: Stafford is expected to return for the 2025 campaign. However, plenty of trade rumors surround the 37-year-old quarterback.Trade Cooper Kupp for good value: The Rams need to get as much as they can in return for the former triple-crown winner after informing the 31-year-old receiver they'll look to trade him this offseason.Upgrade the offensive line: Guards Steve Avila and Kevin Dotson are cemented as starters for next season. Every other position stands to be improved.<h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">Minnesota Vikings</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770574/cropped_GettyImages-2186678320.jpg?ts=1739545374" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770574/w220xh124_GettyImages-2186678320.jpg?ts=1739545374 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770574/w320xh180_GettyImages-2186678320.jpg?ts=1739545374 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770574/w640xh360_GettyImages-2186678320.jpg?ts=1739545374 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770574/w768xh432_GettyImages-2186678320.jpg?ts=1739545374 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770574/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2186678320.jpg?ts=1739545374 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Luke Hales / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Make a decision on Sam Darnold: Deciding whether to extend, franchise tag, or move on from Darnold is Minnesota's biggest priority. Darnold is also likely to be the biggest free-agency domino across the NFL.Add a running back: The Vikings should select a running back in a strong draft class regardless of whether Aaron Jones returns.Get younger in the secondary: Harrison Smith, 36, Stephon Gilmore, 34, and Shaquill Griffin, 29, all played at least 50% of the team's defensive snaps last season. Minnesota lacks options to replace these aging veterans.<h3><a id="NO" name="NO">New Orleans Saints</a></h3>Work through cap space issues: The Saints are $54 million over the cap. With little to no young talent on the roster, general manager Mickey Loomis has to get the salary books under control.Derek Carr: What the team does with Carr is the biggest question surrounding the franchise. He's under contract with $50-million-plus cap hits for the next two seasons, and the Saints can't release the QB without a massive dead-cap charge.Add offensive talent: With running back Alvin Kamara aging and receiver Chris Olave the only above-average offensive weapon, New Orleans needs to help whoever its quarterback is in 2025.<h3><a id="NYG" name="NYG">New York Giants</a></h3>Find a quarterback: The Giants are desperate to find their signal-caller of the future. They could use the No. 3 pick on a quarterback or look for a stopgap starter if they don't like this year's class.Offensive line: New York allowed the fifth-most pressures in 2024, according to Next Gen Stats. The team needs to establish better protection for its next quarterback.Add offensive playmakers: Wide receiver Malik Nabers has superstar potential, but the Giants could use talent around him. With Darius Slayton hitting free agency and Wan'Dale Robinson's limited ceiling, they must be aggressive in adding viable pass-catchers.<h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">Philadelphia Eagles</a></h3>Re-sign Zack Baun: Retaining Baun should be GM Howie Roseman's No. 1 priority in free agency. Nakobe Dean suffered a torn patellar tendon in the playoffs, and fellow linebacker Baun earned first-team All-Pro honors in 2024. He can continue to thrive in Vic Fangio's defense.Find Lane Johnson's successor: Johnson has one to two years left in the NFL, and the Eagles should proactively find the offensive lineman's eventual replacement. They could re-sign Mekhi Becton and eventually move him back to tackle.Add pass-rushers: Josh Sweat and Milton Williams will most likely be too expensive to bring back. With Brandon Graham's retirement coming, the Eagles should target pass-rushers in the draft and free agency.<h3><a id="SEA" name="SEA">Seattle Seahawks</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770576/cropped_GettyImages-2186859324.jpg?ts=1739545522" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770576/w220xh124_GettyImages-2186859324.jpg?ts=1739545522 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770576/w320xh180_GettyImages-2186859324.jpg?ts=1739545522 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770576/w640xh360_GettyImages-2186859324.jpg?ts=1739545522 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770576/w768xh432_GettyImages-2186859324.jpg?ts=1739545522 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770576/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2186859324.jpg?ts=1739545522 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Steph Chambers / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Make a decision on Geno Smith's future: Smith is scheduled to have a $44.5-million cap hit, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/player/geno-smith/2249">Over the Cap</a>. Extending or trading the 34-year-old QB is important with the team projected to be $13.4 million over the salary cap.Upgrade the offensive line: The offensive line needs to be improved regardless of who lines up under center. Everyone other than left tackle Charles Cross could be replaced.Release and replace Tyler Lockett: It's almost guaranteed that Lockett, who turns 33 in September, will be released to avoid his $30.8-million cap hit.<h3><a id="SF" name="SF">San Francisco 49ers</a></h3>Extend Brock Purdy: The 49ers have plenty of cap space to negotiate an extension with their QB. Finalizing a new deal early will give them clarity as they approach free agency and the draft.Trade Deebo Samuel: It's difficult to imagine Samuel playing another snap with the franchise after it granted him permission to seek a trade. Getting a deal done soon will be best for all parties.Revamp the defensive line: The Niners already announced they'll release defensive tackle Javon Hargrave at the start of the new league year. Explosive additions are needed on the interior and edge.<h3><a id="TB" name="TB">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a></h3>Re-sign Chris Godwin: Godwin had a terrific season before dislocating his ankle. The Buccaneers should retain the 28-year-old receiver and keep him paired with Mike Evans for the foreseeable future.Upgrade pass-rush: YaYa Diaby, Calijah Kancey, and Logan Hall are promising young players, but the Buccaneers could use some veteran pass-rush talent to help their recent draft picks. Address the secondary: Tampa Bay finished 30th in passing yards allowed per game. It needs to address the back end of the defense to push for an NFC title.<h3><a id="WAS" name="WAS">Washington Commanders</a></h3>Use cap space wisely: Washington's $75 million in cap space is third most league-wide. The Commanders are in a great spot to solidify the roster around QB Jayden Daniels and be Super Bowl contenders for years to come.Address the defense: Washington ranked 22nd in EPA/play and points per game allowed in 2024. Head coach Dan Quinn needs more talent to work with to compete with Philadelphia in the NFC East.Draft a running back: Brian Robinson was solid last season, but he averaged only 4.3 yards per carry. Daniels could use a more explosive rusher behind him next year.

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Top 3 offseason priorities for every NFC team

The Carolina Panthers are signing quarterback Andy Dalton to a two-year extension, the team annou...

The Carolina Panthers are signing quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/21441" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/21441">Andy Dalton</a> to a two-year extension, the team announced Tuesday.The deal is worth $8-million with $6-million guaranteed, including a maximum value of $10-million, a source told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1891957067834909133">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>. Dalton was scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent in March. He's been with the Panthers since he signed a two-year contract in 2023. Dalton has appeared in nine games with six starts since landing with the Panthers. He started five games last season after head coach Dave Canales benched 2023 first-overall pick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188155" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188155">Bryce Young</a>. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Young won the job back in November and is expected to be Carolina's starting signal-caller for the 2025 season. "Me and Andy are super close," Young said, according to <a href="https://www.panthers.com/news/quarterback-andy-dalton-returns-on-a-two-year-deal-bryce-young">team reporter Darin Grant</a>. "From when I first got here, just being able to talk with him through things, him having perspective on a situation that I had never been a part of, I was always leaning on him, always having conversations and just from a day-to-day basis."Dalton was Cincinnati's primary starting quarterback for nine seasons after entering the league as a second-round pick in 2011. The 37-year-old has 1,350 passing yards with nine touchdowns and six interceptions in two seasons with the Panthers.

ATLANTA, GA JANUARY 05: Carolina quarterback Andy Dalton (14) reacts on the sideline during the NFL game between the Carolina Panthers and the Atlanta Falcons on January 5th, 2025 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA.

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Panthers sign Dalton to 2-year extension reportedly worth $8M

The Cincinnati Bengals are focused on getting a long-term extension done with pending free agent ...

The Cincinnati Bengals are focused on getting a long-term extension done with pending free agent Tee Higgins, according to <a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/bengals-focused-on-signing-tee-higgins-to-long-term-deal-likely-to-use-second-franchise-tag-if-needed?campaign=Twitter_atn">NFL Network's Tom Pelissero</a>.If they can't agree on a long-term deal, the team will likely use the franchise tag on the wideout, Pelissero adds.Higgins played under the franchise tag last season, meaning the second tag would increase to a one-year, $26.2-million deal in 2025. The two-week window for teams to use the franchise tag begins Feb. 18. and ends March 4.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Bengals have until July 15 to work out a long-term extension with Higgins if they do franchise tag him. They can also trade the wide receiver during the process. Higgins has been with the Bengals since they selected him in the second round of the 2020 draft. He's had two seasons with 1,000-plus receiving yards but has failed to stay healthy in recent years. The 26-year-old played in only 24 games over the last two campaigns.Star wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161655" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161655">Ja'Marr Chase</a> is also due for a long-term extension and is likely asking for top-of-the-market money for his position. Cincinnati is aiming to sign Chase, Higgins, and Trey Hendrickson to extensions this offseason, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43894290/sources-bengals-aim-deals-chase-higgins-hendrickson">ESPN's Jeremy Fowler</a>. Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97638" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97638">Joe Burrow</a> has been vocal this offseason about wanting the organization to keep the team's core together."We have the cap space to get it done," Burrow said earlier in February on "<a href="https://x.com/BrkfstBallOnFS1/status/1887514860545507562">Breakfast Ball</a>". "I want to make it happen. Everybody involved - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/72083" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/72083">Trey (Hendrickson)</a>, Tee (Higgins), Ja’Marr (Chase), and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87907" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87907">Mike Gesicki</a> - we all want to stay together."He added: "When you have guys that are motivated like that, I think you can get those things done."Cincinnati currently has $49.4 million in cap space, according to <a href="https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/cap/_/year/2025/sort/cap_maximum_space2">Spotrac</a>.

ARLINGTON, TX - DECEMBER 09: Tee Higgins #5 of the Cincinnati Bengals warms up prior to an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on December 9, 2024 in Arlington, Texas.

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Report: Bengals want long-term Higgins deal, will likely use tag if needed

New Orleans Saints head coach Kellen Moore wouldn't commit to quarterback Derek Carr as his 2025 ...

New Orleans Saints head coach Kellen Moore wouldn't commit to quarterback Derek Carr as his 2025 Week 1 starter at his introductory press conference Thursday."Derek's a tremendous quarterback in this league. … He's a starter in this league. He's a premier player in this league. … Really excited to team up with him and go through this process," Moore <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qD3qBXIdCFg">said</a>.Carr was the Saints' primary starting quarterback the previous two seasons. He signed a four-year, $150-million deal in 2023 after being released by the Las Vegas Raiders.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 33-year-old went 5-5 in 10 starts last season, throwing for 2,145 yards with 15 touchdowns and five interceptions. He ranked 14th in EPA/play and 26th in success rate among 34 signal-callers who played at least 315 snaps, according to <a href="https://rbsdm.com/stats/stats/">Ben Baldwin's database</a>.The Saints' offense got off to a hot start in 2024, totaling 91 points combined in the first two games. However, New Orleans finished the season ranking 24th in points per contest.Carr is scheduled to have a $51.4-million cap hit in 2025 and a $61.4-million hit in 2026, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/player/derek-carr/2975">Over The Cap</a>. The Saints can free $30 million in space if they designate Carr as a post-June-1 release but will carry a $50-million cap penalty until June 2. They are currently $54 million <a href="https://overthecap.com/salary-cap-space">over</a> the salary cap and have to get cap-compliant before the start of the new league year.Moore said the Saints' salary-cap restraints weren't an issue when taking the job."Certainly, the opportunity to go through the interview process allows us to have those conversations. Quickly again, it's evident - the leadership here is tremendous. They are the best in the business from the business side of this operation, and we feel very comfortable with where we're going," Moore said. Moore also said he will be the offensive play-caller for 2025, per <a href="https://x.com/nick_underhill/status/1890100834589147285">Nick Underhill of NOF</a>. The 36-year-old was the Philadelphia Eagles' offensive coordinator and play-caller last year and helped them win the Super Bowl.

METAIRIE, LOUISIANA - FEBRUARY 13: Newly named head coach Kellen Moore of the New Orleans Saints speaks during a introductory press conference at the Ochsner Sports Performance Center on February 13, 2025 in Metairie, Louisiana.

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Saints' Moore won't commit to Carr as Week 1 starter

Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Germaine Pratt has requested a trade from the AFC North club, sourc...

Cincinnati Bengals linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/82754" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/82754">Germaine Pratt</a> has requested a trade from the AFC North club, sources told <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1889748150086181361">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero</a>.Pratt is a defensive captain and has been with Cincinnati since the team selected him in the third round of the 2019 draft. He led the team in tackles last season with 143, ranking 10th among all NFL players. Pratt was also the Bengals' defensive signal-caller last season.The 28-year-old was one of only three defenders with 140-plus tackles and six-plus turnover plays, along with the Philadelphia Eagles' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/98213" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/98213">Zack Baun</a> and the Indianapolis Colts' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87862" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87862">Zaire Franklin</a>, per <a href="https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/1889748376394088493">Pelissero</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Pratt is heading into the final season of a three-year, $20.5-million contract he signed in 2023. The Bengals can save around $5.8 million against their cap if they trade him before June 1, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/player/germaine-pratt/7863">Over the Cap</a>.Cincinnati is amid extension negotiations with star wideout <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161655" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161655">Ja'Marr Chase</a>, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/115870" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/115870">Tee Higgins</a> is scheduled to hit free agency. The Bengals are expected to devote resources to the offensive side of the ball, per <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1889748150086181361">Rapoport</a>. Additionally, Pratt was apparently close with defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, who was fired after this past season.The Bengals currently have around $46 million in <a href="https://overthecap.com/salary-cap-space">cap space</a>. Cincinnati's pending free agents include Higgins, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/82749" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/82749">B.J. Hill</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87907" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87907">Mike Gesicki</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94252" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/94252">Akeem Davis-Gaither</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/66027" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/66027">Mike Hilton</a>. Pratt has 616 tackles, 10 quarterback hits, and five forced fumbles in 96 career games.

CLEVELAND, OHIO - OCTOBER 20: Germaine Pratt #57 of the Cincinnati Bengals walks onto the field at halftime against the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field on October 20, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Report: Bengals' Pratt requests trade

Ohio State is finalizing a deal to hire Matt Patricia as its next defensive coordinator, sources ...

Ohio State is finalizing a deal to hire Matt Patricia as its next defensive coordinator, sources told <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/1889734491930865736">ESPN's Pete Thamel</a>.The Buckeyes will also promote secondary coach Tim Walton to co-defensive coordinator, <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/1889734729152217551">Thamel</a> adds.Patricia was a defensive assistant for the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023. He took over play-calling duties late in the season after head coach Nick Sirianni demoted defensive coordinator Sean Desai.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 50-year-old was previously the Detroit Lions' head coach from 2018-20 after spending six years as Bill Belichick's defensive coordinator in New England. The Lions fired Patricia after posting a 13-29-1 record.Jim Knowles, who served as Ohio State's defensive coordinator from 2022-24 and helped the program win a national championship this season, left to become Penn State's defensive coordinator Jan. 26. The Buckeyes had the nation's No. 1 scoring defense this past campaign.The Nittany Lions gave Knowles a three-year deal averaging $3.1 million per season, making him the highest-paid coordinator in college football.Ohio State head coach Ryan Day promoted Brian Hartline and Keenan Bailey to co-offensive coordinators after Chip Kelly accepted the Las Vegas Raiders' offensive coordinator job.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - DECEMBER 18: Philadelphia Eagles coach Matt Patricia looks on before a game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on December 18, 2023 in Seattle, Washington.

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Report: Ohio State, Patricia finalizing deal for DC job

Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Brandon Graham was activated off injured reserve Saturday and i...

Philadelphia Eagles defensive end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14840" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/14840">Brandon Graham</a> was activated off injured reserve Saturday and is set to return for the Super Bowl against the Kansas City Chiefs.The Eagles opened Graham's 21-day practice window last week. He was placed on injured reserve in late November after suffering a triceps injury against the Los Angeles Rams and missed the next nine games."I'm feeling good. I'm feeling real good. I'm excited, man, to be able to play in this game," Graham said Monday, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6111347/2025/02/03/eagles-super-bowl-media-night-brandon-graham-kellen-moore/">The Athletic</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Graham, 36, was having arguably his best game of the year when he suffered the injury and exited with four pressures, two tackles for loss, and one sack. He leads all Eagles defensive linemen in pressure rate (14.2%) this season, according to <a href="https://pro.nfl.com/?sortKey=qbpR&amp;sortValue=DESC&amp;season=2024&amp;qualifiedDefender=false&amp;nflId&amp;teamOffense=3700&amp;seasonType=REG&amp;tab=passRush">Next Gen Stats</a>.He famously strip-sacked New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady with a little more than two minutes remaining to all but ice Super Bowl LII in the 2017 season and give the Eagles their first Super Bowl victory.The 15-year veteran said before the season that this would be his final campaign.

ARLINGTON, TX - NOVEMBER 10: Brandon Graham #55 of the Philadelphia Eagles celebrates after an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on November 10, 2024 in Arlington, Texas.

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Eagles' Graham to return for Super Bowl in potential final NFL game

Jets wide receiver Davante Adams is intrigued about joining a team on the West Coast if New York ...

Jets wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/57482" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/57482">Davante Adams</a> is intrigued about joining a team on the West Coast if New York releases him this offseason, a source told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/insider/story/_/id/43736371/super-bowl-2025-latest-nfl-buzz-news-rumors-free-agency-trades-draft">ESPN's Jeremy Fowler</a>.The San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Chargers, and Los Angeles Rams are potential teams Fowler lists. Adams grew up in Northern California and suited up in 37 games for the Las Vegas Raiders before he was traded to the Jets in October.Adams is scheduled to have a $38.3-million cap hit in 2025, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/player/davante-adams/2992">Over The Cap</a>. The Jets are not expected to keep Adams under his current contract and would save around $30 million against their cap if they released him before June. 1.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Chargers are considered a team that will look to add wide receiver talent this offseason. The Rams are trying to trade <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/68147" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/68147">Cooper Kupp</a> and could look to add a more talented player across from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188318" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188318">Puka Nacua</a>. San Francisco has $25-plus million against its <a href="https://overthecap.com/salary-cap/san-francisco-49ers">cap</a> tied into <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87611" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87611">Deebo Samuel</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/125339" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/125339">Brandon Aiyuk</a> for 2025 and selected <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199752" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199752">Ricky Pearsall</a> in the first round of last year's draft.Adams had 67 catches for 854 yards and seven touchdowns in 11 games with New York in 2024. The 32-year-old has earned six Pro Bowl nods and three first-team All-Pro nominations in 11 seasons with the Green Bay Packers, Raiders, and Jets.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - DECEMBER 22: Davante Adams #17 of the New York Jets in action against the Los Angeles Rams at MetLife Stadium on December 22, 2024 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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Report: Adams intrigued by West Coast if Jets cut him

Pittsburgh Penguins forward Sidney Crosby missed Friday night's victory over the New York Rangers...

Pittsburgh Penguins forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1002" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1002">Sidney Crosby</a> missed Friday night's victory over the New York Rangers due to an upper-body injury.The Penguins defeated the Rangers 3-2 even though both Crosby and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1026" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1026">Evgeni Malkin</a> sat out to injury. Pittsburgh claimed the win despite not registering a shot in the third period.It was the first game Crosby's missed since 2022. The 37-year-old got hurt in Tuesday's game versus the New Jersey Devils - he left the contest after an awkward collision in the third period but ultimately returned 10 minutes later. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Crosby participated in Friday's optional practice and skated on his own Thursday. Sullivan said it's encouraging that he's back on the ice, but he doesn't have a timetable for his return, per <a href="https://x.com/drosennhl/status/1887896654344319442">Dan Rosen of NHL.com</a>. Crosby is set to be Canada's team captain for the 4 Nations Face-Off, which begins Feb. 12.The 20-year veteran has 17 goals and 41 assists in 55 games this season.

SALT LAKE CITY UT - JANUARY 29: Sidney Crosby #87 of the Pittsburgh Penguins skates to the a faceoff against the Utah Hockey Club during the first period of their game at the Delta Center on January 29, 2025 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

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Crosby misses win over Rangers with upper-body injury

Cowboys legend Emmitt Smith says Dallas shouldn't select Boise State's star running back Ashton J...

Cowboys legend Emmitt Smith says Dallas shouldn't select Boise State's star running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/172507" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/172507">Ashton Jeanty</a> in the 2025 draft. "If he comes to the Cowboys right now, he's going to get beat up," Smith told <a href="https://x.com/MaggieandPerl/status/1887517934697796012">Maggie and Perloff on Sirius XM</a>. "I don't think we're ready. We don't have the right mindset. We don't have the right commitments."I think we are drafting exciting pieces. Exciting pieces that will get fans (saying), 'Oh, we got Ashton Jeanty, oh, we're going to be able to run the ball.' OK, you try to tell me <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/71827" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/71827">Ezekiel Elliott</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/110092" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/110092">Rico Dowdle</a> could not carry that team? No."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Jeanty, 21, is considered one of the best players in the upcoming draft. He's expected to be a first-round pick after posting 2,601 rushing yards and 30 total touchdowns in 14 games. Jeanty finished second in Heisman voting behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/179519" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/179519">Travis Hunter</a>.Dallas struggled to run the ball this season, ranking 26th in EPA/rush and 27th in yards gained on the ground. Cowboys running backs only had five combined touchdowns in 2024, and the club ranked last in rushing scores. Dallas was pass-heavy this season, throwing at the league's third-highest rate."There was no commitment to run the football. Need to do that the whole entire year. That's the formula that I'm talking about," Smith added."Quit trying to do what everyone else is doing in the National Football League. Your quarterback is not <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/89514" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/89514">Patrick Mahomes</a>. He's not <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94699" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/94699">Josh Allen</a>. He's not <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97638" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97638">Joe Burrow</a>. He's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/50470" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/50470">Dak Prescott</a>."The Cowboys finished 7-10 this year after many injuries to key players. They moved on from head coach Mike McCarthy and promoted offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer to replace him.Dallas is currently projected to be $2.8 million <a href="https://overthecap.com/salary-cap-space">over the cap</a> in 2025. The team holds the 12th pick in this year's draft.

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - DECEMBER 22: Former Dallas Cowboys player Emmitt Smith looks on prior to a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at AT&T Stadium on December 22, 2024 in Arlington, Texas.

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Emmitt Smith says Cowboys shouldn't draft Jeanty: He'll 'get beat up'

The Philadelphia Eagles have a chance at revenge.  Philadelphia met the Kansas City Chiefs in Sup...

The Philadelphia Eagles have a chance at revenge.Philadelphia met the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LVII, where Jalen Hurts played a tremendous game. But the Eagles' defense struggled to slow down the Chiefs, Hurts had a costly fumble, and Philly was forced to watch Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid raise the Lombardi Trophy.However, the 2024 Eagles are better suited to take down Kansas City than they were two years ago. Here are three reasons why.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Elite running back production</h3>Miles Sanders led the Eagles' rushing attack in 2022, recording 1,269 yards and 11 touchdowns on 259 carries. He also ranked sixth league-wide among all running backs in rushing yards per game (74.6). The Eagles finished first in EPA per rush and rushing success rate in the regular season, according to TruMedia.But a lot of that success can be attributed to Hurts, who ran for 760 yards and finished third in the NFL in first downs gained on the ground. Hurts was also tied for second with 13 rushing touchdowns.Sanders, Kenneth Gainwell, and Boston Scott failed to provide the Eagles with an efficient rushing attack during their playoff run, especially against the Chiefs. Here's how Philadelphia fared on the ground in the Super Bowl:<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Eagles rushing" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-9j5Dq" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/9j5Dq/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="203" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>Let's be honest: that Super Bowl was Hurts against the world. He had arguably the best game of his career, racking up 374 total yards with four touchdowns while completing 71.1% of his throws.It's hard to believe the Chiefs will shut down Saquon Barkley as they did Sanders and Co. The 27-year-old produced one of the best offensive seasons from a running back in recent years with a league-leading 2,005 rushing yards.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767385/cropped_GettyImages-2196101793.jpg?ts=1737933668" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767385/w220xh124_GettyImages-2196101793.jpg?ts=1737933668 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767385/w320xh180_GettyImages-2196101793.jpg?ts=1737933668 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767385/w640xh360_GettyImages-2196101793.jpg?ts=1737933668 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767385/w768xh432_GettyImages-2196101793.jpg?ts=1737933668 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767385/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2196101793.jpg?ts=1737933668 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Emilee Chinn / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Barkley's also been a monster in the playoffs, rushing for 442 yards and five touchdowns in three games. He's generated plus-172 rushing yards over expected this postseason, the most by a single player in a playoff run since 2018, according to <a href="https://pro.nfl.com/teams/team/3700/insights">Next Gen Stats</a>.Kansas City's run defense has been mediocre at best through two playoff games, allowing 296 total yards on the ground. James Cook and Joe Mixon combined to average 5.6 yards per carry against the Chiefs.Barkley's presence gives this year's team a threat that the 2022 Eagles didn't have. He's a much more talented player than Sanders, and he should continue his historic postseason surge.<h3>Younger, more explosive interior pass rush</h3>Fletcher Cox and Javon Hargrave were outstanding for the Eagles during the 2022 regular season, as the defensive tackles combined for 18 sacks and 111 pressures, according to <a href="https://premium.pff.com/nfl/teams/2022/REGPO/philadelphia-eagles/defense-pass-rush">PFF</a>. However, they fizzled during the playoffs, totaling just 17 pressures with two sacks in three games. The duo especially struggled in the Super Bowl, producing only five pressures and failing to sack Patrick Mahomes.Age could've been a factor, as they were both 30 or older and played significant snaps for the Eagles throughout the season. Jordan Davis, Milton Williams, and Marlon Tuipulotu also didn't provide great depth, as general manager Howie Roseman added Ndamukong Suh and Linval Joseph midway through the season as interior reinforcements. Overall, Philly's interior pass-rushers racked up just 27 pressures during the 2022 playoff run.This year's group is younger and playing lights out in the postseason. Jalen Carter, Milton Williams, Moro Ojomo, and Jordan Davis are all 25 years old or under and have provided elite pass-rushing ability from the interior. Here's how they've fared through three games these playoffs.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Eagles d line stats" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-m1Bxt" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/m1Bxt/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="169" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>Carter, 23, has emerged as one of football's best defensive linemen. He all but iced the Eagles' divisional-round contest when he sacked Matthew Stafford with Philly on its heels up 28-22 and under two minutes remaining in the contest. Carter will be keeping Andy Reid awake at night this week.A specific matchup to watch in this game is Williams against Chiefs left guard Mike Caliendo. He's been up and down after being forced into the starting five with Joe Thuney kicking outside to left tackle.Caliendo has allowed 13 pressures, six hurries, and one sack over his last four games. Williams will have plenty of one-on-one opportunities with Carter primarily rushing against the opposing team's right guard and getting extra attention from centers.The 25-year-old Williams has been among the most underrated interior pass-rushers this season, posting 50 pressures, 24 tackles, and five sacks. His 12.5% pressure rate ranks second in the league among all defensive tackles with at least 200 pass-rush snaps, according to <a href="https://pro.nfl.com/players/player/53502">Next Gen Stats</a>.Carter, Williams, Ojomo, and Davis should be much more productive than Philadelphia's aging defensive tackles in 2022. They can force Mahomes out of the pocket and open up sack opportunities for edge rushers Josh Sweat and Nolan Smith, who's totaled six sacks in his last six games.In Super Bowl LV, Tampa Bay's defense harassed Mahomes with 44 combined pressures, 10 quarterback hits, and three sacks en route to a 31-9 victory. The Eagles' young, fresh defensive interior could help cause similar chaos in this game.<h3>Vic Fangio's leadership and scheme</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768888/cropped_GettyImages-2190116943.jpg?ts=1738690223" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768888/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190116943.jpg?ts=1738690223 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768888/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190116943.jpg?ts=1738690223 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768888/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190116943.jpg?ts=1738690223 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768888/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190116943.jpg?ts=1738690223 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768888/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190116943.jpg?ts=1738690223 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Mitchell Leff / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Out of all the significant additions to the Eagles last offseason, hiring Vic Fangio might've been Roseman's best move.Philly's defense in 2022 was great on paper under former coordinator Jonathan Gannon, as it ranked fourth in EPA/play while leading the league with 70 sacks, 15 more than the second-ranked team. But Gannon's defense thrived on swarming bad offensive lines and pressuring mediocre quarterbacks. Some of the league's top signal-callers torched his unit.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Opp QB Eagles" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Sv7S6" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Sv7S6/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="266" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>Mahomes and Reid dominated in their two games against Philadelphia during Gannon's tenure, combining for 73 offensive points, 811 yards, and 52 first downs.Gannon's defenses were consistently picked apart by short-to-intermediate passes. The Eagles' defense ranked 14th in success rate in 2022, and it was slightly above league average on a down-to-down basis.Philly ranked first in defensive success rate in 2024. Yes, having talent like Carter, Zack Baun, Quinyon Mitchell, and Cooper DeJean helps, but Gannon also had star power to work with. This unit has fared much better against top quarterbacks.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Eagles table 4" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-B0MkX" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/B0MkX/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="142" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>The Ravens led the league in EPA/play on offense this season but had their fewest yards per play and net yards per pass attempt against Philadelphia, according to TruMedia.Mahomes targeted receivers on a career-high 26.9% of his attempts this year, resulting in a league-high 45 first downs, according to <a href="https://x.com/NextGenStats/status/1886464280394113413">Next Gen Stats</a>. Philadelphia's defense allowed the fewest yards per attempt (4.1) and the lowest success rate (29.9%) on passes thrown behind the line of scrimmage.This version of the Eagles' defense is exceptionally disciplined and one of the best units Fangio's led during his 40-year NFL coaching career. Philly consistently flies to the ball and doesn't allow teams to nickel and dime it down the field. The Eagles have also forced 10 turnovers in the postseason, compared to four in three games during their 2022 playoff run.Fangio will prepare the Eagles for anything Mahomes and Reid throw at them in the Super Bowl.

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The Houston Texans hired Los Angeles Rams tight ends coach and passing game coordinator Nick Cale...

The Houston Texans hired Los Angeles Rams tight ends coach and passing game coordinator Nick Caley as their new offensive coordinator, the team announced Monday.Caley was with the Rams for the last two seasons and was promoted to passing game coordinator in 2024. He spent the previous eight years as an offensive coach with the New England Patriots.The 42-year-old helped the Rams' offense rank seventh in passing success rate and ninth in yards through the air in 2024.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Houston fired offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik in January after two seasons under head coach DeMeco Ryans. Following a successful 2023 with then-rookie quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188132" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188132">C.J. Stroud</a>, Houston's offense faltered. The Texans ranked 22nd in yards per game and 30th in offensive success rate in 2024.Caley will be tasked with getting Stroud back on track after he finished 25th among 32 qualified quarterbacks in EPA/play. The 23-year-old went 10-7 in 17 starts this campaign, throwing for 3,727 yards with 20 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.

DENVER, COLORADO - AUGUST 26: Tight ends coach Nick Caley of the Los Angeles Rams looks on during the preseason game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field At Mile High on August 26, 2023 in Denver, Colorado.

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Cleveland Browns star pass-rusher Myles Garrett requested a trade, he announced Monday.  "While I...

Cleveland Browns star pass-rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87669" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87669">Myles Garrett</a> requested a trade, he announced Monday."While I've loved calling this city my home, my desire to win and compete on the biggest stages won't allow me to be complacent," Garrett said in a statement, according to <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1886444543144337506">NFL Network's Ian Rapaport</a>."The goal was never to go from Cleveland to Canton; it has always been to compete for and win a Super Bowl. With that in mind, I have requested to be traded from the Cleveland Browns."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"We're not entertaining offers for him," a Browns source told <a href="https://x.com/jjones9/status/1886453713037852847">Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports</a>.Browns general manager Andrew Berry said last week that the team won't trade Garrett, not even for two first-round picks, according to <a href="https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2025/01/browns-gm-andrew-berry-says-he-wont-trade-myles-garrett-not-for-even-two-1st-round-picks-open-to-contract-extension.html">Cleveland.com's Mary Kay Cabot</a>."I don't want to go into contract discussions. I wouldn't do that publicly," Berry told reporters. "But I think you can assume that we do anticipate at some point doing a third contract with Myles."Garrett has two years remaining on a five-year, $125-million extension he signed in 2020. The Browns could save money on his contract by trading him after June 1, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/player/myles-garrett/5585">Over The Cap</a>.The 29-year-old has been with Cleveland since the franchise selected him in the first round of the 2017 draft. He won the Defensive Player of the Year award in 2023 and is a four-time first-team All-Pro.Garrett hasn't experienced much team success in the NFL. The Browns hold a 53-78-1 regular-season record over the last eight years, with just two winning seasons and one playoff victory. Garrett <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3166207" href="https://thescore.com/news/3166207">said</a> in late December that he wasn't interested in being part of a rebuild.The Texas A&amp;M product is coming off a 14-sack season and is in the running for Defensive Player of the Year once again. He has 116 tackles for loss and 102.5 sacks in 117 career games.

CINCINNATI, OHIO - DECEMBER 22: Myles Garrett #95 of the Cleveland Browns warms up before the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium on December 22, 2024 in Cincinnati, Ohio.

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ORLANDO, FLORIDA - JANUARY 30: NFL Pro Bowl Games presented by Verizon signage outside the stadium on January 30, 2025 in Orlando, Florida.

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The Philadelphia Eagles designated edge rusher Brandon Graham to return from injured reserve afte...

The Philadelphia Eagles designated edge rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14840" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/14840">Brandon Graham</a> to return from injured reserve after he tore his triceps in early December.His 21-day practice window is open, setting the stage for a return to the Eagles' lineup in the Super Bowl against the Kansas City Chiefs. The injury occurred in the team's victory over the Los Angeles Rams in Week 12, and the veteran missed the final six games of the regular season and the first three contests of the playoffs.The 36-year-old has racked up 22 pressures, 20 tackles, and 3.5 sacks in 11 contests this season, and his 14.1% pressure rate is the highest mark on the team among all defensive linemen, according to <a href="https://pro.nfl.com/stats/defense/season?sortKey=qbpR&amp;sortValue=DESC&amp;season=2024&amp;qualifiedDefender=false&amp;teamDefense=3700&amp;seasonType=REG&amp;tab=overview">Next Gen Stats</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I feel good. ...This has been the easiest injury, I'd say, out of the injuries I've had. Upper-body stuff is a little bit easier," Graham said earlier in the week, according to <a href="https://x.com/ZBerm/status/1884029893064765533">PHLY Sports' Zach Berman</a>."It's just making sure I'm building muscle, I'm getting stronger and doing the right things to where I'm not re-hurting it. We'll see what the docs say, see what's going on, and go from there."The Eagles have primarily gone with a rotation of three edge rushers in Graham's absence. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188182" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188182">Nolan Smith</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94114" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/94114">Josh Sweat</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199824" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199824">Jalyx Hunt</a> have gotten most of the snaps.Graham has been with the Eagles since they selected him in the first round of the 2010 draft and is the franchise leader in games played with 206.

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 24: Defensive end Brandon Graham #55 of the Philadelphia Eagles stands on the sidelines during the national anthem prior to an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams, at SoFi Stadium on November 24, 2024 in Inglewood, California.

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Raiders pass-rusher Maxx Crosby is thrilled about Las Vegas hiring Pete Carroll as its next head ...

Raiders pass-rusher Maxx Crosby is thrilled about Las Vegas hiring Pete Carroll as its next head coach."It's exciting," Crosby told <a href="https://x.com/SiriusXMNFL/status/1884739551102419419">Jim Gray on Sirius XM Radio</a>. "The No. 1 thing you look at is just energy. We talked about it a few times. Competition as well. As a competitor, as somebody who brings energy all the time and lives off that and expects it from others, I love somebody with that type of mentality."Crosby added: "He's a winner. He's done it his whole career. And it's just exciting to see what's going to come soon."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Carroll moved into an advisory role with the Seattle Seahawks in 2024 after spending 14 seasons as the team's head coach. He accumulated a 137-89-1 regular-season record as Seattle's sideline boss.The 73-year-old found playoff success early in his Seahawks tenure, reaching back-to-back Super Bowls during the 2013 and 2014 seasons. Carroll was victorious in his first Super Bowl but lost to the New England Patriots the following year. Carroll reached the playoffs in 10 of his 14 years in Seattle.The Raiders are coming off a 4-13 season, the worst record in the AFC West. They've won 10 or more games in a campaign just once in the last eight years and haven't won their division since 2002."The main things that (Carroll) talked about is, we're going right now," Crosby said. "We're not wasting time. That's the one thing he mentioned to me after his press conference. We're going to get this thing rolling. So, it's exciting. That's my mentality every year. I want to win every year."That's the competition in me, and I see that in him. I feel like everybody, from the new ownership group, from (owner) Mark (Davis), everybody's on the same mindset when it comes to attacking this new regime."Crosby has been with the Raiders since being drafted in the fourth round in 2019. He's earned four Pro Bowl nods in six seasons, totaling 144 quarterback hits and 59.5 sacks. The 27-year-old has two years remaining on the four-year, $98.98-million contract extension he signed in 2022.Las Vegas owns the sixth pick in April's draft and is projected to have $92.3 million in cap space, the second-most in the NFL, according to Over The Cap.

TAMPA, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 8: Maxx Crosby #98 of the Las Vegas Raiders stretches prior to an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on December 8, 2024 in Tampa, Florida.

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