2021 NFL Draft prospect Zach Wilson’s 425-yard, five-touchdown performance (3 PASS, 2 RUSH) led the day -and rightfully so- and now we take a look at some of the other pro prospects from BYU’s 49-23 victory over the UCF Knights in the 2020 Boca Raton Bowl.
STOCK UP:
95 Khyris Tonga 6’4 321 DT-Senior BYU
Tonga’s stat line will never jump off the screen. In today’s NFL, the splash interior defensive line prospects typically are able to work to half a man for quick penetration. This is not Tonga’s game. Where he does flash in the passing game revolves around his timing to cloud passing lanes.
He posted a pass breakup in this contest and recorded three in the team’s final four games of 2020. He finished his career with 12 pass deflections. The former rugby star is strong, runs well in a straight line and projects as a zero-technique in three-man fronts.
STEADY:
5 Dax Milne 6’0 189 WR-Junior BYU
Milne has been a model of consistency all season for the Cougars and this game was no different. There were several games this season where he flashed down the field capability in terms of high-pointing the football (see Houston ’20). The former walk-on uses deception and a quick-footed style to fool defensive backs. It is a big reason he was the team’s second-leading receiver on third downs. One of his better patterns is the stutter-and-go comeback route (see Western Kentucky ’20), but there have been occasions where he’s made deft one-hand grabs from his quarterback down the field in contested situations (TD vs. Sails, USF ’19). Milne recently declared for the 2021 NFL Draft and he could be the program’s first receiver picked since Austin Collie in 2008 (Indianapolis Colts, 4th Round, 127th overall).
67 Brady Christensen 6’6 300 LT-Junior BYU
For the most part, Christensen has been steady. There are some occasions where players get the best of him due to a questionable anchor (see Boyles, USF ’19; Wiley, UTSA ’20). In those instances, he has even been knocked to the ground. Mobility and foot quickness, however, make him a viable option to hear his name called this spring after recently declaring for the 2021 NFL Draft. In this contest, he was adept at baiting the opponent up the field, particularly on QB Zach Wilson’s quarterback draw for a touchdown in the first quarter. Christiensen is also agile as a pulling option on the perimeter (1st QTR/0:25, Boca Raton ’20). Can he long-arm the opponent when quick-setting (2nd QTR/5:11, Boca Raton ’20)?
2 Otis Anderson 5’11 174 RB-Ret-Senior UCF
After not playing against USF, Anderson was solid in what may have been his last collegiate game (16 carries, 73 yards). He does have the option of returning for one more season. The former wide receiver finishes with over 90 career receptions and a healthy six yards per carry average.
Anderson (pictured in the slot in the 2017 AAC Championship game) has rushed for 2,187 yards (6.1 YPC), caught 91 passes for another 1,025 yards and averaged 12.3 yards per punt return. Along the way he has crossed the paint for 27 total touchdowns in four seasons.
An adept punt returner who could carve out a niche in that role, he has more than one tool in his skill-set. His foot speed will likely determine whether he can sneak into an NFL training camp.
FUTURE WATCH:
83 Isaac Rex 6’6 247 TE-Redshirt Freshman BYU
As the season has gone on, Rex continued to work the seams both in the field and the Red Zone. He scored two or more touchdowns in five of the team’s final seven contests. The team will line him up one-on-one for back-shoulder fades (Western Kentucky ’20, 2nd QTR/0:21). And just think what this offense would have looked like had NFL prospect Matt Bushman been available all season. Versus UCF, Rex led the team with five receptions for 96 yards and two touchdowns. One of his touchdowns came on a flea-flicker where he was left wide open down the right sidelines.
The former San Clemente High School (Calif.) product was a basketball recruit and part of the 2017 recruiting class. He has already served a mission in Samoa for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Is the future now?
Aside from torching Pac-12 defenses for 171 receptions for 2,549 yards (14.7 YPR) and 19 touchdowns, former USC wide receiver Michael Pittman, Jr. also found time to post 17 tackles and blocked three kicks. In addition, he returned one punt for a score. Similar to his father, Michael, Sr., he is a true all-purpose threat on the football field.
The 2020 NFL Free Agency period is upon us and here is a list of all of the free agent signings. This is a live document, so feel free to check out any of your team’s latest signings day-to-day. Bold and italicized players have already agreed to terms with their respective teams or are heading elsewhere.
NFC South
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Offensive free agents
QB Jameis Winston QB Blaine Gabbert (re-signed) RB Peyton Barber (agreed to terms with Redskins) WR Breshad Perriman(agreed to terms with Jets) RT Demar Dotson T Jerald Hawkins T Josh Wells G Earl Watford G Michael Liedtke (RFA) TE Tanner Hudson (ERFA) re-negotiated contract TE Antony Auclair(re-signed) WR Bryant Mitchell (re-signed)
Defensive free agents
DE Rakeem Nunez-Roches(re-signed) DT Ndamukong Suh (re-signed) LB Shaquil Barrett (franchised) OLB Carl Nassib (agreed to terms with Raiders) ILB Kevin Minter(re-signed) LB Jason Pierre-Paul (re-signed) OLB Sam Acho S Andrew Adams(re-signed) S Darian Stewart CB Orion Stewart (ERFA)
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Placed the franchise tag on DE Shaquil Barrett, re-signed OLB/DE Jason Pierre-Paul to a two-year deal, re-negotiated TE Tanner Hudson’s contract
Agreed to terms with QB Tom Brady (Patriots), G Joe Haeg (Colts)
Re-signed WR Bryant Mitchell, DE Rakeem Nunez-Roaches, ILB Kevin Minter, S Andrew Adams, DT Ndamukong Suh, CB Ryan Smith, QB Blaine Gabbert
Lost OLB Carl Nassib (Raiders), DT Beau Allen (Patriots), RB Peyton Barber (Redskins), WR Breshad Perriman (Jets)
Former Patriots quarterback Tom Brady completed 61-percent of his passes a season ago for 4,057 yards, 24 touchdowns and eight interceptions.
Atlanta Falcons
Offensive free agents
G John Wetzel (re-signed) WR Justin Hardy RB Kenjon Barner FB Keith Smith(re-signed) TE Austin Hooper (agreed to terms with Cleveland Browns) QB Matt Simms C Wes Schweitzer (agreed to terms with Washington) RB Brian Hill (Original-Round Tender) G Sean Harlow
The Falcons picked up former Los Angeles Rams and 2017 AP Offensive Player of the Year Todd Gurley (No. 30 pictured). Gurley has accounted for 70 career touchdowns, including 14 in 2019.
Defensive free agents
DE Vic Beasley (agreed to terms with Titans) DT Jack Crawford(agreed to terms with Titans) DE Adrian Clayborn (agreed to terms with Browns) CB Blidi Wreh-Wilson(re-signed) SS Kemal Ishmael DT Tyeler Davison (re-signed) FS J.J. Wilcox DE Steven Means (re-signed) SS John Cyprien CB Jamar Taylor DE Ra’Shede Hageman OLB De’Vondre Campbell (agreed to terms with Cardinals) S Sharrod Neasman(re-signed) DT Michael Bennett (RFA)
The Falcons acquired former Ravens first-round pick Hayden Hurst, who caught 30 passes for 349 yards (11.6 YPR) and 2 TDs in 2019.
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Traded a 2020 second-round pick and a 2020 fifth-round pick to the Baltimore Ravens for TE Hayden Hurst and a 2020 fourth-round pick
Re-signed DT Tyeler Davison to a three-year deal, OG John Wetzel, S Sharrod Neasman, FB Keith Smith, DE Steven Means, CB Blidi Wreh-Wilson
Agreed to terms with OLB Dante Fowler, Jr. (Rams), RB Todd Gurley II (Rams), WR Laquon Treadwell (Vikings), G Justin McCray (Browns), ILB LaRoy Reynolds (Bengals), LB Edmond Robinson (XFL)
Lost TE Austin Hooper (Browns), DE Vic Beasley (Titans), lost OL Wes Schweitzer (Redskins), DE Adrian Clayborn (Browns), DT Jack Crawford (Titans)
Released RB Devonta Freeman, CB Desmond Trufant (agreed to terms with Lions), OT Ty Sambrailo (Titans)
Carolina Panthers
Offensive free agents
TE Greg Olsen (signed with Seattle Seahawks) RT Daryl Williams(agreed to terms with Bills) WR Jarius Wright WR Chris Hogan G Greg Van Roten(agreed to terms with Jets) WR DeAndrew White (re-signed) TE Dillon Gordon QB Kyle Allen (traded to Redskins) G Brandon Greene G Kitt O’Brien TE Marcus Baugh(agreed to terms with Redskins)
Defensive free agents
DT Dontari Poe (agreed to terms with Cowboys) DE Gerald McCoy(agreed to terms with Cowboys) OLB Mario Addison (agreed to terms with Bills) OLB Bruce Irvin (agreed to terms with Seahawks) CB Ross Cockrell FS Tre Boston DT Vernon Butler (agreed to terms with Bills) DT Kyle Love CB James Bradberry (agreed to terms with New York Giants) DT Stacy McGee CB Javien Elliott CB Cole Luke (ERFA)
Former Panthers cornerback James Bradberry (No. 24 pictured) agreed to terms with the New York Giants.
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Traded QB Kyle Allen to Redskins for 2020 fifth-round pick, OG Trai Turner for OT Russell Okung (Chargers)
Re-signed WR DeAndrew White
Agreed to terms with QB Teddy Bridgewater (Saints), WR Seth Roberts (Ravens), DE Steven Weatherly (Vikings), CB Juston Burris (Browns), OG John Miller (Bengals), WR Keith Kirkwood (Saints), TE Seth DeValve (Jaguars), WR-KR Pharoh Cooper (Cardinals), OLB Tahir Whitehead (Raiders), QB P.J. Walker (XFL), WR Robby Anderson (Jets), DT Zach Kerr (Cardinals)
Lost TE Greg Olsen (Seahawks), CB James Bradberry (Giants), DE Mario Addison (Bills), DT Gerald McCoy (Cowboys), OLB Bruce Irvin (Seahawks), DT Vernon Butler (Bills), TE Marcus Baugh (Redskins), DT Dontari Poe (Cowboys), RT Daryl Williams (Bills)
Released S Eric Reid, QB Cam Newton
New Orleans Saints
Offensive free agents
QB Drew Brees (re-signed) QB Teddy Bridgewater (agreed to terms with Panthers) G Andrus Peat (re-signed) FB Zach Line RT Patrick Omameh RB Dwayne Washington G Cameron Tom (RFA) WR Austin Carr (RFA) QB Taysom Hill (placed a first-round tender) WR Keith Kirkwood (ERFA)(agreed to terms with Panthers)
Defensive free agents
OLB A.J. Klein (agreed to terms with Bills) CB Eli Apple CB P.J. Williams (re-signed) SS Vonn Bell(agreed to terms with Bengals) CB Johnson Bademosi ILB Stephone Anthony OLB Josh Martin ILB Manti Te’o FS D.J. Swearinger(re-signed) DT David Onyemata (re-signed) DE Noah Spence (re-signed) CB Justin Hardee (re-signed) SS J.T. Gray (ERFA)
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Placed a first-round tender on QB Taysom Hill, re-signed QB Drew Brees to a two-year deal, DT David Onyemata to a three-year deal, OL Andrus Peat to a five-year deal, CB Justin Hardee, FS D.J. Swearinger, DE Noah Spence, CB P.J. Williams
Lost QB Teddy Bridgewater (Panthers), OLB A.J. Klein (Bills), WR Keith Kirkwood (Panthers), SS Vonn Bell (Bengals)
Agreed to terms with LS Zach Wood on a four-year deal, S Malcolm Jenkins (Eagles), WR Emmanuel Sanders (49ers), FB Michael Burton (Redskins)
NFC North
Minnesota Vikings
Offensive free agents
G Rashod Hill(re-signed) QB Sean Mannion (re-signed) LT Dakota Dozier (re-signed) RB Ameer Abdullah(re-signed) C Brett Jones (re-signed) WR Laquon Treadwell(agreed to terms with Falcons) FB C.J. Ham (re-signed)
Defensive free agents
DE Everson Griffen CB Trae Waynes (agreed to terms with Cincinnati) SS Anthony Harris (franchise tagged) SS Andrew Sendejo (agreed to terms with Cleveland) CB Mackensie Alexander (agreed to terms with Cincinnati) OLB Kentrell Brothers S Jayron Kearse (agreed to terms with Lions) DE Stephen Weatherly (agreed to terms with Panthers) OLB Eric Wilson (RFA) (Second-Round Tender) CB Marcus Sherels
Special teams free agents
PK Dan Bailey (re-signed)
The Minnesota Vikings traded wide receiver Stefon Diggs to the Buffalo Bills after he posted career-highs in receiving yards (1,130) and yards per reception (17.9) in 2019.
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Traded WR Stefon Diggs and a 2020 seventh-round pick to the Buffalo Bills for a 2020 first-round pick, 2020 fifth-round pick, 2020 sixth-round pick and a 2021 fourth-round pick.
Re-signed QB Kirk Cousins to a two-year extension, RB C.J. Ham, P Britton Colquitt, K Dan Bailey, QB Sean Mannion, G Rashod Hill, C Brett Jones, LT Dakota Dozier, RB Ameer Abdullah
Placed the franchise tag on SS Anthony Harris, placed second round tender on OLB Eric Wilson
Agreed to terms with DT Michael Pierce (Ravens), WR Tajae Sharpe (Titans), DE Anthony Zettel (49ers)
Lost CB Trae Waynes (Bengals), CB Mackensie Alexander (Bengals), DE Stephen Weatherly (Panthers), DT Linval Joseph (Chargers), SS Andrew Sendejo (Browns), WR Laquon Treadwell (Falcons)
Released CB Xavier Rhodes (Colts), TE David Morgan
Detroit Lions
Offensive free agents
WR Jermaine Kearse TE Logan Thomas (agreed to terms with Redskins) G Graham Glasgow (agreed to terms with Denver) RB J.D. McKissic (agreed to terms with Redskins) QB Jeff Driskel (agreed to terms with Broncos) OT Ricky Wagner (agreed to terms with Green Bay)
Defensive free agents
DT Damon Harrison DT Mike Daniels SS Tavon Wilson CB Rashaan Melvin (agreed to terms with Jaguars) DT A’Shawn Robinson(agreed to terms with Rams) S Miles Killebrew(re-signed) DT Darius Kilgo DE Jamie Meder CB Michael Ford (ERFA) CB Dee Virgin (ERFA) LB Devon Kennard (agreed to terms with Cardinals)
Former Philadelphia Eagles OL Halapoulivaati Vaitai agreed to terms with the Lions on a five-year deal. He started 20 games for the Eagles in four seasons.
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Agreed to terms with QB Chase Daniel (Bears) on a three-year deal, OL Halapoulivaati Vaitai (Eagles) on a five-year deal, LB Jamie Collins (Patriots), C Ted Karras (Patriots), DT Nick Williams (Bears), CB Desmond Trufant (Falcons), DT Danny Shelton (Patriots), S Jayron Kearse (Vikings), CB Tony McRae (Bengals), WR Geremy Davis (Chargers), ILB Reggie Ragland (Chiefs), OLB Elijah Lee (49ers), WR Geronimo Allison (Packers)
Re-signed S Miles Killebrew, WR Danny Amendola, T Oday Aboushi
Lost OG Graham Glasgow (Broncos), OT Ricky Wagner (Packers), OLB Devon Kennard (Cardinals), RB JD McKissic (Redskins), QB Jeff Driskel (Broncos), DT A’shawn Robinson (Rams), TE Logan Thomas (Redskins), CB Rashaan Melvin (Jaguars)
Team acquired S Duron Harmon from the Patriots, traded CB Darius Slay to the Philadelphia Eagles for a 2020 third-round pick and a 2020 fifth-round pick
Green Bay Packers
Offensive free agents
OT Bryan Bulaga (agreed to terms with the Los Angeles Chargers) RT Jared Veldheer WR Geronimo Allison(agreed to terms with Lions) TE Marcedes Lewis (re-signed) WR Ryan Grant FB Dan Vitale (agreed to terms with New England) FB Malcolm Johnson (RFA) TE Robert Tonyan, Jr. (ERFA) WR Jake Kumerow (ERFA) G John Leglue (ERFA)
Defensive free agents
CB Tramon Williams OLB Kyler Fackrell (agreed to terms with the Giants) ILB B.J. Goodson (agreed to terms with the Browns) SS Ibraheim Campbell ILB Blake Martinez (agreed to terms with the Giants) CB Chandon Sullivan (ERFA) DE Tyler Lancaster (ERFA) FS Will Redmond (ERFA)(re-signed)
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes
Agreed to terms with LB Christian Kirksey (Browns), OT Ricky Wagner (Lions), WR Devin Funchess (Colts)
Re-signed TE Marcedes Lewis, FS Will Redmond
Lost OT Bryan Bulaga (Chargers), TE Jimmy Graham (Bears), ILB Blake Martinez (Giants), OLB Kyler Fackrell (Giants), LB BJ Goodson (Browns), FB Dan Vitale (Patriots), WR Geronimo Allison (Lions)
Chicago Bears
Offensive free agents
WR Taylor Gabriel QB Chase Daniel (agreed to terms with Lions) TE Bradley Sowell G Ted Larsen LT Cornelius Lucas(agreed to terms with Redskins) RT T.J. Clemmings RT Rashaad Coward TE J.P. Holtz
Defensive free agents
CB Prince Amukamara ILB Danny Trevathan(re-signed) FS HaHa Clinton-Dix(agreed to terms with Cowboys) S Sherrick McManis OLB Aaron Lynch, OLB Devante Bond DT Nick Williams (agreed to terms with Lions) OLB Kevin Pierre-Louis (agreed to terms with Redskins) DE Brent Urban (re-signed) S DeAndre Houston-Carson (re-signed) ILB Nick Kwiatkoski (agreed to terms with Raiders) S Deon Bush (re-signed) DT Roy Robertson-Harris (RFA)(Second-Round Tender) LB Isaiah Irving
The Bears acquired former Jaguars QB Nick Foles, who is 26-22 in his career as a starter.
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Agreed to terms with TE Jimmy Graham (Packers) to a two-year deal, TE Demetrius Harris (Browns), DE Robert Quinn (Cowboys) on a five-year deal, CB Artie Burns (Steelers), S Jordan Lucas (Chiefs), OLB Barkevious Mingo (Texans), RT Germain Ifedi (Seahawks)
Re-signed S Deon Bush, ILB Danny Trevathan, DE Brent Urban, S DeAndre Houston-Carson
Placed a second-round tender on DT Roy Robertson-Harris
Released former first-round pick OLB Leonard Floyd (Rams), lost QB Chase Daniel (Lions), DT Nick Williams (Lions), OLB Kevin Pierre-Louis (Redskins), ILB Nick Kwiatkoski (Raiders), LT Cornelius Lucas (Redskins), FS HaHa Clinton-Dix (Cowboys)
Team traded a 2020 fourth-round pick for QB Nick Foles (Jaguars)
NFC East
Washington Redskins
Offensive free agents
TE Jordan Reed WR Paul Richardson G Brandon Scherff TE Vernon Davis (retired) RB Chris Thompson QB Case Keenum (agreed to terms with Browns) G Ereck Flowers (agreed to terms with Dolphins) QB Colt McCoy(agreed to terms with Giants) RT Donald Penn C Tony Bergstrom FB Michael Burton (agreed to terms with Saints) RB Wendell Smallwood TE Jerome Cunningham (RFA) QB Josh Woodrum (ERFA)
Defensive free agents
CB Josh Norman (agreed to terms with Bills) CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie ILB Jon Bostic(re-signed) CB Aaron Colvin DE Nate Orchard (re-signed) SS Kenny Ladler DE Treyvon Hester DE Chris Odom DE Caleb Brantley(re-signed) DE Myles Humphrey
Former Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Kendall Fuller (No. 23 pictured) is returning to the team that drafted him in the third round (84th overall) of the 2016 NFL Draft.
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes
Traded CB Quinton Dunbar to Seahawks for 2020 fifth-round pick, acquired QB Kyle Allen from Panthers for 2020 fifth-round pick
Agreed to terms with CB Kendall Fuller (Chiefs), OL Wes Schweitzer (Falcons), LB Thomas Davis (Chargers), OLB Kevin Pierre-Louis (Bears), S Sean Davis (Steelers), RB JD McKissic (Lions), TE Logan Thomas (Lions), LT Cornelius Lucas (Bears), TE Marcus Baugh (Panthers), RB Peyton Barber (Buccaneers), TE Richard Rodgers (Eagles), WR Cody Latimer (Giants), CB Ronald Darby (Eagles)
Re-signed DE Nate Orchard, ILB Jon Bostic, DE Caleb Brantley
Lost QB Case Keenum (Browns), OG Ereck Flowers (Dolphins), QB Colt McCoy (Giants), FB Michael Burton (Saints)
Released CB Josh Norman (Bills) and TE Vernon Davis retired
New York Giants
Offensive free agents
RT Mike Remmers (agreed to terms with Chiefs) WR Cody Latimer (agreed to terms with Redskins) K Aldrick Rosas WR Russell Shepard RB Javorius Allen TE Scott Simonson WR Corey Coleman(resigned) C Jon Halapio (RFA) FB Elijhaa Penny (re-signed) WR Cody Core WR Amba Etta-Tawo (ERFA)
Defensive free agents
ILB Alec Ogletree OLB Kareem Martin OLB DE Leonard Williams (placed the franchise tag) OLB Markus Golden FS Michael Thomas CB Antonio Hamilton (agreed to terms with the Chiefs) ILB David Mayo (re-signed) ILB Deone Bucannon ILB Devante Downs (RFA)
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Agreed to terms with LB Blake Martinez (Packers) on a three-year deal, TE Levine Toilolo (49ers), CB James Bradberry (Panthers), OLB Kyler Fackrell (Packers), RB Dion Lewis (Titans)
Agreed to terms with T Cameron Fleming (Cowboys), FS Nate Ebner (Patriots), QB Colt McCoy (Redskins), DT Austin Johnson (Titans). TE Eric Tomlinson (Raiders)
Placed the franchise tag on DL Leonard Williams, re-signed ILB David Mayo, FB Elijhaa Penny, WR Corey Coleman
Lost RT Mike Remmers (Chiefs), CB Antonio Hamilton (Chiefs), WR Cody Latimer (Redskins)
Dallas Cowboys
Offensive free agents
WR Amari Cooper (re-signed) WR Randall Cobb (agreed to terms with Texans) TE Jason Witten (agreed to terms with Raiders) WR Tavon Austin G Xavier Su’a-Filo(agreed to terms with Bengals) QB Dak Prescott (exclusive rights franchise tag) TE Blake Jarwin(re-signed) QB Cooper Rush(Original-Round Tender)
Defensive free agents
DE Michael Bennett DE Robert Quinn (agreed to terms with Bears) OLB Sean Lee (re-signed) DT Christian Covington CB Byron Jones (agreed to terms with Dolphins) SS Jeff Heath (agreed to terms with Raiders) ILB Joe Thomas(re-signed) DE Kerry Hyder (agreed to terms with 49ers) OLB Malcolm Smith DT Maliek Collins (agreed to terms with Raiders) ILB Ray-Ray Armstrong FS Darian Thompson (re-signed) OLB Justin March (re-signed) CB C.J. Goodwin (re-signed) DT Daniel Ross(agreed to terms with Raiders) CB Anthony Brown (re-signed) S Kavon Frazier DT Antwaun Woods (ERFA)
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Placed the exclusive rights franchise tag on QB Dak Prescott, re-signed WR Amari Cooper on a five-year deal, CB Anthony Brown, K Kai Forbath, ILB Joe Thomas, OLB Justin March, CB C.J. Goodwin, OLB Sean Lee, FS Darian Thompson, TE Blake Jarwin
Agreed to terms with Gerald McCoy (Panthers), CB Maurice Canady (Jets), FS HaHa Clinton-Dix (Bears), DT Dontari Poe (Panthers), TE Blake Bell (Chiefs), K Greg Zuerlein (Rams)
Lost DE Robert Quinn (Bears), CB Byron Jones (Dolphins), WR Randall Cobb (Texans), TE Jason Witten (Raiders), SS Jeff Heath (Raiders), CB Donovan Olumba (Browns), DE Kerry Hyder (49ers), DT Daniel Ross (Raiders)
Lost T Cameron Fleming (Giants), DT Maliek Collins (Raiders), G Xavier Su’a-Filo (Bengals)
Philadelphia Eagles
Offensive free agents
LT Jason Peters QB Nate Sudfeld (re-signed) WR Nelson Agholor (agreed to terms with Raiders) QB Josh McCown RB Darren Sproles TE Richard Rodgers (agreed to terms with Redskins) RB Jordan Howard (agreed to terms with Dolphins) G Halapoulivaati Vaitai (agreed to terms with Lions) RB Corey Clement (RFA)
Defensive free agents
FS Malcolm Jenkins (agreed to terms with Saints) OLB Nigel Bradham FS Rodney McLeod (re-signed) CB Ronald Darby(agreed to terms with Redskins) DE Vinny Curry DT Timmy Jernigan (agreed to terms with Texans) DT Hassan Ridgeway (re-signed) OLB Kamu Grugier-Hill (agreed to terms with Dolphins) CB Jalen Mills (re-signed) CB Craig James (ERFA)
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Agreed to terms with DL Javon Hargrave (Steelers) on a three-year deal, ILB Jatavis Brown (Chargers), S Will Parks (Broncos), CB Nickell Robey-Coleman (Rams)
Re-signed FS Rodney McLeod to a two-year deal, CB Jalen Mills, QB Nate Sudfeld, DT Hassan Ridgeway
Traded a 2020 third-round pick and a 2020 fifth-round pick to the Detroit Lions for CB Darius Slay
Lost OL Halapoulivaati Vaitai (Lions), RB Jordan Howard (Dolphins), OLB Kamu Grugier-Hill (Dolphins), S Malcolm Jenkins (Saints), WR Nelson Agholor (Raiders), TE Richard Rodgers (Redskins), CB Ronald Darby (Redskins), DT Timmy Jernigan (Texans)
NFC West
San Francisco 49ers
Offensive free agents
WR Emmanuel Sanders(agreed to terms with Saints) C Ben Garland(re-signed) TE Levine Toilolo (agreed to terms with Giants) WR Jordan Matthews RB Matt Breida (RFA) (Second-Round Tender) WR Kendrick Bourne (RFA) (Second-Round Tender)
Defensive free agents
FS Jimmie Ward (re-signed) CB Jason Verrett DE Arik Armstead (re-signed) DE Damontre Moore CB Dontae Johnson DT Sheldon Day (agreed to terms with Colts) DE Anthony Zettel (agreed to terms with Vikings) DE Ronald Blair (re-signed) OLB Elijah Lee (agreed to terms with Lions) DT Ethan Westbrooks
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Traded DL DeForest Buckner to the Indianapolis Colts for the 13th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, re-signed DE Arik Armstead to a five-year deal, FS Jimmie Ward to a three-year deal, G Shon Coleman, C Ben Garland, DE Ronald Blair
Agreed to terms with G Tom Compton (Jets), ILB Joe Walker (Cardinals) DE Kerry Hyder (Cowboys), WR Travis Benjamin (Chargers)
Placed second-round tender on RB Matt Breida, WR Kendrick Bourne
Lost TE Levine Toilolo (Giants), WR Emmanuel Sanders (Saints), DE Anthony Zettel (Vikings), DT Sheldon Day (Colts), OLB Elijah Lee (Lions)
Los Angeles Rams
Offensive free agents
LT Andrew Whitworth (re-signed) QB Blake Bortles WR Jojo Natson (agreed to terms with Browns) WR Mike Thomas (agreed to terms with Bengals) G Austin Blythe (re-signed) TE Johnny Mundt (tendered as ERFA) C Coleman Shelton (tendered as ERFA)
Defensive free agents
OLB Dante Fowler, Jr. (agreed to terms with Falcons) DT Michael Brockers (re-signed) CB Nickell Robey-Coleman (agreed to terms with Eagles) ILB Cory Littleton (agreed to terms with Raiders) ILB Bryce Hager DE Morgan Fox (RFA) S Donte Deayon(re-signed) S Marqui Christian (agreed to terms with Jets) OLB Josh Carraway (ERFA)
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Tendered TE Johnny Mundt (ERFA), C Coleman Shelton (ERFA), re-signed LT Andrew Whitworth, G Austin Blythe, DT Michael Brockers, S Donte Deayon
Agreed to terms with OLB Leonard Floyd (Bears), DT A’Shawn Robinson (Lions)
Lost ILB Cory Littleton (Raiders), S Marqui Christian (Jets), CB Nickell Robey-Coleman (Eagles), OLB Dante Fowler, Jr. (Falcons), WR Mike Thomas (Bengals), K Greg Zuerlein (Cowboys)
Released RB Todd Gurley (Falcons), OLB Clay Matthews, Jr.
Seattle Seahawks
Offensive free agents
G Mike Iupati RT Germain Ifedi(agreed to terms with Bears) WR Josh Gordon WR Jaron Brown RB Marshawn Lynch RB Robert Turbin QB Geno Smith TE Luke Willson (re-signed) RB C.J. Prosise C Joey Hunt(Original-Round Tender) OT George Fant (agreed to terms with Jets) WR David Moore (Original-Round Tender) TE Jacob Hollister (placed a second-round tender) G Jordan Roos WR Malik Turner TE Tyrone Swoopes
Defensive free agents
DE Jadeveon Clowney DE Ezekiel Ansah OLB Mychal Kendricks DT Al Woods (agreed to terms with Jaguars) DE Quinton Jefferson (agreed to terms with Bills) CB Akeem King DT Jarran Reed (re-signed) CB Neiko Thorpe OLB Dekoda Watson DE Branden Jackson(Original-Round Tender) CB Kalan Reed FS Ryan Neal (ERFA) CB Jeremy Boykins (ERFA) DT Bryan Mone (ERFA)
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Traded a 2020 fifth-round pick to the Redskins for CB Quinton Dunbar
Agreed to terms with OT Brandon Shell (Jets), OT Cedric Ogbuehi (Bengals), G BJ Finney (Steelers), TE Greg Olsen (Panthers), OLB Bruce Irvin (Panthers), WR Phillip Dorsett (Patriots), DE Benson Mayowa (Raiders)
Re-signed DT Jarran Reed to a two-year deal, TE Luke Wilson
Placed a second-round tender on TE Jacob Hollister
Lost OT George Fant (Jets), DE Quinton Jefferson (Bills), DT Al Woods (Jaguars), RT Germain Ifedi (Bears)
Arizona Cardinals
Offensive free agents
RT Marcus Gilbert (resigned) TE Charles Clay G Max Garcia(re-signed) C A.Q. Shipley QB Brett Hundley (re-signed) RT Jordan Mills RB Kenyan Drake (placed transition tag) WR Damiere Byrd (agreed to terms with the Patriots) WR Pharoh Cooper (agreed to terms with Panthers) RB D.J. Foster (re-signed) K Zane Gonzalez (placed second-round tender)
Defensive free agents
DE Rodney Gunter (agreed to terms with Jaguars) OLB Brooks Reed DE Clinton McDonald OLB Cassius Marsh(agreed to terms with Jaguars) FS Josh Shaw DE Jonathan Bullard (re-signed) SS Chris Banjo (re-signed) DT Zach Kerr (agreed to terms with Panthers) CB Brandon Williams S Charles Washington (re-signed) ILB Joe Walker (agreed to terms with 49ers) CB Kevin Peterson
Former Texans WR DeAndre Hopkins (No. 10 pictured) had 31 games of more than 70 receiving yards over the last three seasons (2017-19).
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Traded RB David Johnson and a 2020 second-round pick to the Houston Texans for WR DeAndre Hopkins and a fourth-round pick
Placed the transition tag on RB Kenyan Drake, agreed to terms with DT Jordan Phillips (Bills), OLB Devon Kennard (Lions), LB De’Vondre Campbell (Falcons), DT Trevon Coley (Colts)
Re-signed QB Brett Hundley, SS Chris Banjo, DE Jonathan Bullard, G Max Garcia, S Charles Washington, RB D.J. Foster, RT Marcus Gilbert
Lost WR Damiere Byrd (Patriots), DE Rodney Gunter (Jaguars), WR Pharoh Cooper (Panthers), ILB Joe Walker (49ers), OLB Cassius Marsh (Jaguars), DT Zach Kerr (Panthers)
AFC South
Tennessee Titans
Offensive free agents
TE Delanie Walker QB Marcus Mariota (agreed to terms with Raiders) RB Dion Lewis (agreed to terms with Giants) RT Jack Conklin (agreed to terms with Browns) G Kevin Pamphile RT Dennis Kelly (re-signed) RB Derrick Henry (placed exclusive rights franchise tag) RB David Fluellen (RFA) WR Darius Jennings (agreed to terms with Chargers) TE MyCole Pruitt (re-signed) WR Tajae Sharpe (agreed to terms with Vikings)
Defensive free agents
CB Logan Ryan DE Cameron Wake ILB Wesley Woodyard ILB Daren Bates CB Chris Milton (resigned) ILB Kamalei Correa (re-signed) DT Austin Johnson (agreed to terms with Giants) CB Tramaine Brock CB LeShaun Sims (agreed to terms with Bengals) CB Tye Smith (RFA)
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Re-signed QB Ryan Tannehill to a four-year deal, RT Dennis Kelly, TE MyCole Pruitt, CB Chris Milton, ILB Kamalei Correa and placed the exclusive rights franchise tag on RB Derrick Henry,
Agreed to terms with DE Vic Beasley (Falcons) on a one-year deal, ILB Nick Dzubnar (Chargers), DT Jack Crawford (Falcons), T Ty Sambrailo (Falcons)
Lost QB Marcus Mariota (Raiders), OT Jack Conklin (Browns), RB Dion Lewis (Giants), WR Tajae Sharpe (Vikings), DT Austin Johnson (Giants), CB LeShaun Sims (Bengals), WR Darius Jennings (Chargers)
Team traded DT Jurrell Casey to Broncos for a 2020 seventh-round pick
Houston Texans
Offensive free agents
RB Lamar Miller QB A.J. McCarron (re-signed) RB Carlos Hyde TE Darren Fells (re-signed) QB Joe Webb RB Taiwan Jones (agreed to terms with Bills)
Defensive free agents
ILB Dylan Cole (original round tender) CB Johnathan Joseph CB Vernon Hargreaves (re-signed) OLB Barkevious Mingo (agreed to terms with Bears) SS Jahleel Addae FS Mike Adams OLB Tyrell Adams (re-signed) DT D.J. Reader (agreed to terms with Bengals) CB Phillip Gaines
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Traded WR DeAndre Hopkins and a 2020 fourth-round pick to the Arizona Cardinals in exchange for a 2020 second-round pick, a 2021 fourth-round pick and RB David Johnson
Agreed to terms with S Eric Murray (Browns), S Jaylen Watkins (Chargers), WR Randall Cobb (Cowboys), RT Brett Qvale (Jets), DT Timmy Jernigan (Eagles)
Re-signed CB Bradley Roby to a three-year deal, T Roderick Johnson, QB A.J. McCarron, TE Darren Fells, OLB Tyrell Adams. CB Vernon Hargreaves
Lost DT D.J. Reader (Bengals), RB Taiwan Jones (Bills), OLB Barkevious Mingo (Bears)
Jacksonville Jaguars
Offensive free agents
G Tyler Shatley (re-signed) LT Cedric Ogbuehi (agreed to terms with Seahawks) RT Benjamin Ijalana TE Nick O’Leary (agreed to terms with Raiders) TE Ben Koyack TE Seth Devalve (agreed to terms with Panthers) G Brandon Thomas (ERFA) RB Devante Mays (ERFA) WR Keelan Cole (RFA) (Second-Round Tender) RB Alfred Blue
Defensive free agents
ILB Jake Ryan DT Akeem Spence OLB Najee Goode ILB D.J. Alexander ILB Preston Brown DT Carl Davis (RFA) ILB Donald Payne (RFA) OLB James Onwualu (RFA) ILB Austin Calitro (ERFA) DE Yannick Ngakoue (placed the franchise tag)
Former Browns 2017 Pro Bowl LB Joe Schobert should be a welcome addition to the Jaguars defense. He has posted over 100 tackles in each of his last three seasons (seven forced fumbles). Schobert had four interceptions for the Browns in 2019.
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Traded DL Calais Campbell to the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for a 2020 fifth-round pick and QB Nick Foles to Chicago Bears for a 2020 fourth-round pick, placed the franchise tag on DE Yannick Ngakoue, placed second-round tender on WR Keelan Cole
Agreed to terms with LB Joe Schobert (Browns), DE Rodney Gunter (Cardinals), OLB Cassius Marsh (Cardinals), CB Rashaan Melvin (Lions), DT Al Woods (Seahawks), TE Tyler Eifert (Browns)
Re-signed G Tyler Shatley and LB Lerentee McCray
Lost LT Cedric Ogbuehi (Seahawks), TE Seth DeValve (Panthers), TE Nick O’Leary (Raiders)
Indianapolis Colts
Offensive free agents
WR Devin Funchess (agreed to terms with Packers) TE Eric Ebron (agreed to terms with the Pittsburgh Steelers) WR Chester Rogers WR Dontrelle Inman RT Le’Raven Clark (re-signed) G Josh Andrews(agreed to terms with Jets) RB Jonathan Williams G Joe Haeg (agreed to terms with Buccaneers) WR Marcus Johnson WR Daurice Fountain (ERFA)
Defensive free agents
DE Jabaal Sheard FS Clayton Geathers FS Isaiah Johnson S Briean Boddy-Calhoun DT Trevon Coley(agreed to terms with Cardinals) S Kai Nacua (ERFA) S Rolan Milligan (re-signed)
Quarterback Philip Rivers has thrown for over 4,000 yards in 11 of his 16 NFL campaigns.
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Traded the 13th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft to the San Francisco 49ers for DT DeForest Buckner, making him second highest paid DT behing Aaron Donald
Re-signed S Rolan Milligan
Agreed to terms with QB Philip Rivers (Chargers), re-signed OT Anthony Castonzo to an extension, OT Le’Raven Clark, CB Xavier Rhodes (Vikings), DT Sheldon Day (49ers), CB Travis Carrie (Browns)
Lost TE Eric Ebron (Steelers), G Joe Haeg (Buccaneers), G Josh Andrews (Jets), QB Brian Hoyer (Patriots), WR Devin Funchess (Packers), DT Trevon Coley (Cardinals)
Released QB Brian Hoyer (agreed to terms with Patriots), CB Pierre Desir (agreed to terms with Jets)
AFC North
Baltimore Ravens
Offensive free agents
WR Seth Roberts(agreed to terms with Panthers) WR Chris Moore (re-signed) G Parker Ehinger (ERFA) C Hroniss Grasu C C Matt Skura (Original-Round Tender) RB Gus Edwards (ERFA) G Randin Crecelius (ERFA) RT Andre Smith (re-signed)
Defensive free agents
CB Jimmy Smith SS Tony Jefferson CB Brandon Carr DT Michael Pierce (agreed to terms with Vikings) ILB Patrick Onwuasor (agreed to terms with Jets) SS Anthony Levine(r-signed) OLB Pernell McPhee DT Domata Peko ILB Josh Bynes (agreed to terms with Bengals) S Jordan Richards (re-signed) SS Brynden Trawick DT Justin Ellis (re-signed) DT Jihad Ward (re-signed) S Fish Smithson (ERFA)
New Baltimore Ravens defensive lineman Calais Campbell (No. 93 pictured) has gotten better with age. In his last three seasons, Campbell has 30.5 of his 88 career quarterback sacks.
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Traded a 2020 fifth-round pick to the Jacksonville Jaguars for DL Calais Campbell, DE Chris Wormley and a 2021 seventh-round pick to the Pittsburgh Steelers for a 2020 fifth-round pick
Traded TE Hayden Hurst and a 2020 fourth-round pick to the Atlanta Falcons for a 2020 second-round pick and a 2020 fifth-round pick
Re-signed DE Jihad Ward, DT Justin Ellis, RT Andre Smith, CB Jimmy Smith, SS Anthony Levine, WR Chris Moore
Placed the franchise tag on DE Matthew Judon and agreed to terms with DE Derek Wolfe (Broncos)
Lost DT Michael Pierce (Vikings), WR Seth Roberts (Panthers), ILB Josh Bynes (Bengals), ILB Patrick Onwuasor (Jets)
Released OL James Hurst
Cleveland Browns
Offensive free agents
TE Demetrius Harris (agreed to terms with Bears) LT Greg Robinson G Eric Kush (agreed to terms with Raiders) QB Drew Stanton WR Rashard Higgins RB Kareem Hunt (placed a second-round tender) G Justin McCray(agreed to terms with Falcons) TE Ricky Seals-Jones(agreed to terms with Chiefs) WR Khadarel Hodge RB Dontrell Hilliard TE Pharaoh Brown
Defensive free agents
ILB Christian Kirksey (agreed to terms with Packers) CB Travis Carrie (agreed to terms wit Colts) ILB Adarius Taylor FS Damarious Randall(agreed to terms with Raiders) ILB Joe Schobert (agreed to terms with Jaguars) FS Eric Murray (agreed to terms with Texans) CB Juston Burris (agreed to terms with Panthers) DE Bryan Cox Jr (RFA)
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Agreed to terms with TE Austin Hooper (Falcons) on a four-year deal, OT Jack Conklin (Titans), ILB BJ Goodson (Packers), SS Karl Joseph (Raiders), QB Case Keenum (Redskins), DT Andrew Billings (Bengals), WR Jojo Natson (Rams), S Andrew Sendejo (Vikings), CB Kevin Johnson (Bills), CB Donovan Olumba (Cowboys), Adrian Clayborn (Falcons), C Evan Brown (Dolphins)
Placed a second-round tender on RB Kareem Hunt
Lost FS Eric Murray (Texans), ILB Christian Kirksey (Packers), ILB Joe Schobert (Jaguars), CB Juston Burris (Panthers), TE Demetrius Harris (Bears), G Eric Kush (Raiders), G Justin McCray (Falcons), CB Travis Carrie (Colts), FS Damarious Randall (Raiders), TE Ricky Seals-Jones (Chiefs)
Released FS Morgan Burnett
Cincinnati Bengals
Offensive free agents
WR A.J. Green (placed the franchise tag) TE Tyler Eifert(agreed to terms with Jaguars) G John Jerry G Alex Redmond (RFA) (Original-Round Tender) TE Cethan Carter (RFA)(Original-Round Tender)
Defensive free agents
CB Darqueze Dennard DE Kerry Wynn ILB LaRoy Reynolds (agreed to terms with Falcolns) OLB Nick Vigil(agreed to terms with Chargers) DT Andrew Billings (agreed to terms with Browns) S Brandon Wilson(Original-Round Tender) DT Josh Tupou (Original-Round Tender) CB Tony McRae (agreed to terms with Lions) CB Torry McTyer(re-signed) CB Greg Mabin (re-signed) ILB Hardy Nickerson, Jr. S Clayton Fejedelem (agreed to terms with Dolphins) DT Niles Scott
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Placed the franchise tag on WR A.J. Green, agreed to terms with DT DJ Reader (Texans) on a four-year deal, CB Trae Waynes (Vikings), CB Mackensie Alexander (Vikings), OG Xavier Su’a-Filo (Cowboys), WR Mike Thomas (Rams), ILB Josh Bynes (Ravens), SS Vonn Bell (Saints), CB LeShaun Sims (Titans)
Re-signed CB Torry McTyer, CB Greg Mabin
Lost S Clayton Fejedelem (Dolphins), DT Andrew Billings (Browns), CB Tony McRae (Lions), ILB LaRoy Reynolds (Falcons), TE Tyler Eifert (Jaguars), OLB Nick Vigil (Chargers)
Released OG John Miller and OT Cordy Glenn
Pittsburgh Steelers
Offensive free agents
TE Vance McDonald (CO) G B.J. Finney (agreed to terms with Seahawks) TE Nick Vannett (agreed to terms with Broncos) RT Matt Feiler (RFA) (second-round tender) OT Zach Banner
Defensive free agents
CB Artie Burns (agreed to terms with Bears) OLB Bud Dupree (franchise tag) FS Sean Davis (agreed to terms with Redskins) DT Javon Hargrave (agreed to terms with Eagles) CB Mike Hilton (RFA)(Second-Round Tender) DT Leterrius Walton (RFA) ILB Tyler Matakevich (agreed to terms with Bills) FS Jordan Dangerfield(re-signed) DE Lavon Hooks (ERFA)
New Pittsburgh Steelers tight end and 2018 Pro Bowler Eric Ebron has 27 career touchdown receptions.
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Traded a 2020 fifth-round pick to the Baltimore Ravens for DE Chris Wormley and a 2021 seventh-round pick, re-signed FS Jordan Dangerfield
Placed the franchise tag on OLB Bud Dupree, placed second-round tender on RT Matt Feiler, CB Mike Hilton
Agreed to terms with FB Derek Watt (Chargers), C Steven Wisniewski (Chiefs), TE Eric Ebron (Colts), DT Cavon Walker (XFL), DE Dewayne Hendrix (XFL), S Tyree Kinnel (XFL), LS Christian Kuntz (XFL)
Released DL Anthony Chickillo, LB Mark Barron, WR Johnny Holton, FB Roosevelt Nix
Lost DT Javon Hargrave (Eagles), ILB Tyler Matakevich (Bills), FS Sean Davis (Redskins), G BJ Finney (Seahawks), CB Artie Burns (Bears), TE Nick Vannett (Broncos)
AFC East
New England Patriots
Offensive free agents
QB Tom Brady (agreed to terms with Buccaneers) WR Phillip Dorsett (agreed to terms with Seahawks) RT Marshall Newhouse TE Benjamin Watson C James Ferentz C Ted Karras OL Joe Thuney (franchise tagged)
Defensive free agents
ILB Kyle Van Noy (agreed to terms with Dolphins) FS Nate Ebner(agreed to terms with Giants) OLB Jamie Collins (agreed to terms with Lions) DT Danny Shelton (agreed to terms with Lions) OLB Shilique Calhoun(re-signed) OLB Elandon Roberts (agreed to terms with Dolphins) DE Keionta Davis (RFA)
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Placed the franchise tag on OL Joe Thuney
Agreed to terms with FS Adrian Phillips (Chargers), FB Dan Vitale (Packers), DE Brandon Copeland (Jets), QB Brian Hoyer (Colts)
Re-signed OLB Shilique Calhoun
Lost QB Tom Brady (Buccaneers), LB Kyle Van Noy (Dolphins), S Duron Harmon (Lions) , LB Jamie Collins (Lions),OL Ted Karras (Dolphins)
Lost DT Danny Shelton (Lions), OLB Elandon Roberts (Dolphins), FS Nate Ebner (Giants), WR Phillip Dorsett (Seahawks)
Released K Stephen Gostkowski
Buffalo Bills
Offensive free agents
RT LaAdrian Waddle RB Frank Gore RB Senorise Perry WR Isaiah McKenzie (RFA)(re-signed) G Isaac Asiata (RFA)
Defensive free agents
DT Jordan Phillips (agreed to terms with Cardinals) OLB Lorenzo Alexander CB Kevin Johnson(agreed to terms with Browns) DE Shaq Lawson (agreed to terms with Dolphins) OLB Julian Stanford FS Kurt Coleman DT Corey Liuget SS Dean Marlowe (re-signed)
Buffalo Bills new defensive end Mario Addison (No. 97 pictured) has 55 career quarterback sacks.
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Traded a 2020 first-round pick, 2020 fifth-round pick, 2020 sixth-round pick and a 2021 fourth-round pick for Minnesota Vikins WR Stefon Diggs and a 2020 seventh-round pick.
Agreed to terms with LB A.J. Klein (Saints) on a three-year deal, DE Mario Addison (Panthers) on a three-year deal, LB Tyler Matakevich (Steelers), CB Josh Norman (Redskins), DT Vernon Butler (Panthers), RB Taiwan Jones (Texans), DE Quinton Jefferson (Seahawks), RT Daryl Williams (Panthers)
Re-signed SS Dean Marlowe, WR Isaiah McKenzie
Lost DT Jordan Phillips (Cardinals), lost DE Shaq Lawson (Dolphins), CB Kevin Johnson (Browns)
Miami Dolphins
Offensive free agents
C Daniel Kilgore G Evan Boehm RT J’Marcus Webb TE Clive Walford TE WR Trevor Davis
Defensive free agents
CB Aqib Talib FS Walt Aikens DE John Jenkins OLB Deon Lacey (RFA) FS Adrian Colbert (ERFA) (re-signed) OLB Chase Allen (RFA) DT Kendrick Norton (ERFA)
Former Dallas Cowboys cornerback/safety Byron Jones has 43 passes defensed in his career.
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Agreed to terms with DE Emmanuel Ogbah (Chiefs) on a two-year deal, CB Byron Jones (Cowboys) on a five-year deal, OG Ereck Flowers on a three-year deal, LB Kyle Van Noy (Patriots) on a four-year deal and Shaq Lawson (Bills) on a three-year deal,
Agreed to terms with RB Jordan Howard (Eagles), S Clayton Fejedelem (Bengals) and OLB Kamu Grugier-Hill (Eagles), OG Ted Karras (Patriots), OLB Elandon Roberts (Patriots)
Re-signed FS Adrian Colbert
New York Jets
Offensive free agents
C Ryan Kalil LT Kelvin Beachum WR Robby Anderson(agreed to terms with Panthers) WR Demaryius Thomas QB Trevor Siemian G Tom Compton (agreed to terms with 49ers) RT Brent Qvale (agreed to terms with Texans) RB Bilal Powell RB Ty Montgomery TE Daniel Brown QB David Fales (re-signed) G Alex Lewis (re-signed) WR Josh Malone (RFA) WR Jeff Smith (ERFA) OT Brandon Shell (agreed to terms with Seattle)
Defensive free agents
CB Brian Poole (re-signed) FS Rontez Miles DE Brandon Copeland (agreed to terms with Patriots) ILB Neville Hewitt (re-signed) S Blake Countess ILB Albert McClellan OLB Paul Worrilow OLB Jordan Jenkins (re-signed) CB Maurice Canady (agreed to terms with Cowboys) ILB James Burgess(re-signed) CB Arthur Maulet (Resigned) ILB B.J. Bello (RFA) CB Bennett Jackson(re-signed)
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Agreed to terms with OT George Fant (Seahawks), OG Connor McGovern (Broncos), G Greg Van Roten (Panthers), G Josh Andrews (Colts), S Marqui Christian (Rams), CB Pierre Desir (Colts), WR Breshad Perriman (Buccaneers), ILB Patrick Onwuasor (Ravens)
Re-signed OG Alex Lewis, ILB Neville Hewitt, CB Arthur Maulet, CB Brian Poole, ILB James Burgess, CB Bennett Jackson, OLB Jordan Jenkins, QB David Fales
Lost CB Maurice Cannady (Cowboys), OT Brandon Shell (Seahawks), G Tom Compton (49ers), RT Brett Qvale (Texans), DE Brandon Copeland (Patriots), WR Robby Anderson (Panthers)
AFC West
Kansas City Chiefs
Offensive free agents
QB Chad Henne(re-signed) RB LeSean McCoy QB Matt Moore FB Anthony Sherman (re-signed) C Stefen Wisniewski(agreed to terms with Steelers) TE Blake Bell (agreed to terms with Cowboys) RB Spencer Ware WR Demarcus Robinson (re-signed) WR Marcus Kemp (ERFA) TE Deon Yelder (ERFA) TE David Wells (ERFA)
Defensive free agents
OLB Terrell Suggs ILB Darron Lee DT Xavier Williams S Jordan Lucas(agreed to terms with Bears) CB Morris Claiborne CB Bashaud Breeland (re-signed) DE Emmanuel Ogbah (agreed to terms with Dolphins) ILB Reggie Ragland(agreed to terms with Lions) CB Keith Reaser DE Mike Pennel (re-signed) CB Kendall Fuller (agreed to terms with Redskins) DT Chris Jones (franchise tagged)
The Chiefs placed the franchise tag on DL Chris Jones (No. 95 pictured). Not only does Jones have 33.5 career quarterback sacks, but he has also has 20 passes defensed in just four seasons.
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Placed the franchise tag on DL Chris Jones, agreed to terms with CB Antonio Hamilton (Giants)
Re-signed QB Chad Henne, FB Anthony Sherman, DE Mike Pennel, WR Demarcus Robinson, CB Bashaud Breeland
Agreed to terms with CB Antonio Hamilton (Giants), RT Mike Remmers (Giants), QB Jordan Ta’amu (XFL), TE Ricky Seals-Jones (Browns), RB DeAndre Washington (Raiders)
Lost CB Kendall Fuller (Redskins), lost DE Emmanuel Ogbah (Dolphins), C Steven Wisniewski (Steelers), S Jordan Lucas (Bears), TE Blake Bell (Cowboys), ILB Reggie Ragland (Lions)
Los Angeles Chargers
Offensive free agents
QB Philip Rivers (agreed to terms with Colts) WR Travis Benjamin(agreed to terms with 49ers) RB Melvin Gordon (agreed to terms with Broncos) RB Austin Ekeler (re-signed) G Michael Schofield TE Lance Kendricks WR Geremy Davis (agreed to terms with Lions) G Ryan Groy RB Troymaine Pope (RFA) G Spencer Drango (RFA) FB Derek Watt (agreed to terms with Steelers) TE Sean Culkin (RFA) G Trenton Scott (ERFA) WR Dylan Cantrell (ERFA) C Dillon DeBoer C (RFA)
Defensive free agents
DT Brandon Mebane OLB Thomas Davis (agreed to terms with Redskins) DT Damion Square FS Adrian Phillips (agreed to terms with Patriots) ILB Nick Dzubnar (agreed to term with Titans) CB Jaylen Watkins (agreed to terms with Texans) DT Sylvester Williams DT Isaac Rochell (RFA) I ILB Jatavis Brown (agreed to terms with Eagles) CB Michael Davis (ERFA)(Second-Round Tender)
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Placed second-round tender on CB Michael Davis
Re-signed RB Austin Ekeler
Agreed to terms with OT Bryan Bulaga (Packers), CB Chris Harris, Jr. (Broncos), DT Linval Joseph (Vikings), WR Darius Jennings (Titans), OLB Nick Vigil (Bengals)
Lost QB Philip Rivers (Colts), FB Derek Watt (Steelers), OLB Thomas Davis (Redskins), FS Adrian Phillips (Patriots), RB Melvin Gordon (Broncos), CB Jaylen Watkins (Texans) , ILB Jatavis Brown (Eagles), ILB Nick Dzubnar (Titans), WR Travis Benjamin (49ers), WR Geremy Davis (Lions)
Traded OT Russell Okung for OG Trai Turner (Panthers)
Denver Broncos
Offensive free agents
G Ron Leary (declined option) RB Theo Riddick RB Devontae Booker C Connor McGovern (agreed to terms with Jets) RT Elijah Wilkinson (placed a second-round tender) QB Brandon Allen (RFA) WR Tim Patrick (RFA) WR Diontae Spencer (ERFA)
Defensive free agents
CB Chris Harris (agreed to terms with Chargers) DE Derek Wolfe(agreed to terms with Ravens) DT Shelby Harris (re-signed) DE Adam Gotsis DE Billy Winn CB Cyrus Jones OLB Jeremiah Attaochu(re-signed) ILB Corey Nelson CB DeVante Bausby (RFA) (re-signed) OLB Joe Jones (RFA) (re-signed) S Dymonte Thomas DE Mike Purcell (RFA) (second-round tender) S Will Parks (agreed to terms with Eagles) CB Davontae Harris (ERFA) S Trey Marshall (ERFA) OLB Dadi Nicolas DT Joel Heath (re-signed) S Justin Simmons (placed the franchise tag)
New Denver Broncos running back Melvin Gordon (pictured scoring TD) has accounted for 4,240 yards rushing (4 YPC) and 36 touchdowns in five seasons. In addition, Gordon has caught 224 passes for 1,873 yards (8.4 YPR) and 11 touchdowns.
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Agreed to terms with OG Graham Glasgow (Lions) to a four-year deal, QB Jeff Driskel (Lions), RB Melvin Gordon (Chargers), TE Nick Vannett (Steelers), P Sam Martin (Lions)
Traded for CB A.J. Bouye (Jaguars), RB Andy Janovich to Cleveland Browns for a 2021 seventh-round pick, 2020 seventh-round pick to Titans for five-time Pro Bowl DT Jurrell Casey
Placed second-round tender on LT Elijah Wilkinson, DE Mike Purcell, re-signed CB DeVante Bausby, OLB Joe Jones,OLB Jeremiah Attaochu, DT Joel Heath, DT Shelby Harris
Lost OG Connor McGovern (Jets), CB Chris Harris Jr (Chargers), S Will Parks (Eagles), DE Derek Wolfe (Ravens)
Declined option on OG Ron Leary, released QB Joe Flacco
Las Vegas Raiders
Offensive free agents
QB Mike Glennon WR Dwayne Harris RB Isaiah Crowell G Jordan Devey (re-signed) RB Rod Smith (re-signed) WR Keelan Doss (ERFA) TE Eric Tomlinson (agreed to terms with Giants) RB DeAndre Washington (agreed to terms with Chiefs) QB Nathan Peterman (RFA) (original round tender) G Cameron Hunt (ERFA) G Richie Incognito OT David Sharpe
Defensive free agents
OLB Tahir Whitehead (agreed to terms with Panthers) CB Daryl Worley SS Karl Joseph (agreed to terms with Browns) OLB Vontaze Burfict DE Benson Mayowa(agreed to terms with Seahawks) DT Josh Mauro OLB Kyle Wilber (re-signed) FS Curtis Riley ILB Will Compton DE Olsen Pierre ILB Ukeme Eligwe (RFA) CB Makinton Dorleant (ERFA) DE Jeremiah Valoaga (ERFA) OLB Nicholas Morrow (RFA) S Dallin Leavitt (ERFA) CB D.J. Killings (ERFA) DE Dion Jordan
Former Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota has thrown 76 touchdown passes to 44 interceptions in his five-year NFL career.
2020 Free Agency report/Other Notes:
Agreed to terms with QB Marcus Mariota (Titans), TE Jason Witten (Cowboys), LB Cory Littleton (Rams), DE Carl Nassib (Buccaneers), LB Nick Kwiatkoski (Bears), G Eric Kush (Browns)
Agreed to terms with SS Jeff Heath (Cowboys), DT Maliek Collins (Cowboys), WR Nelson Agholor (Eagles), TE Nick O’Leary (Jaguars), DT Daniel Ross (Cowboys), FS Damarious Randall (Browns)
Re-signed RB Rod Smith, OLB Kyle Wilber, G Jordan Devey
Lost SS Karl Joseph (Browns), OLB Tahir Whitehead (Panthers), TE Eric Tomlinson (Giants), DE Benson Mayowa (Seahawks), RB DeAndre Washington (Chiefs)
Former Utah defensive back Julian Blackmon earned AP second-team All-American honors in 2019 as he led a Utes defense that ranked 12th nationally in pass defense. For his career, Blackmon returned two interceptions for touchdowns.
Omenihu, the Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year in 2018, has nearly 37-inch arms. He could be a fit in DC Romeo Crennel’s schemes.
Houston Texans
Notable picks: Howard and Johnson both ranked in our Top 50 and represent potential starting players in Year 1.Scharping is as technically advanced as any OL in the draft and Warring could be a factor in two tight end sets.The signing of Matt Kalil ensures the team goes into training camp with competition at the offensive tackle spot. Of the team’s Day 3 draft picks, Omenihu may be asked to adjust right away from a need perspective. Will Fuller’s injury history could leave the team depending on backups again late in the year.
Round,
Selection,
Player
School
DN Big Board
Rank/
Grade
‘Nasty’ Take:
1 (23)
Tytus Howard
OT/Alabama State
41/2nd Round
The former high school quarterback often talked about the task of gaining weight and has gotten up to the 322-pound range.His quick-footed nature could become a fit on the right side for the Texans.
Johnson’s occasional pass interference penalty sometimes comes from not using his length to disrupt the wide receiver’s release.When he does, it is tough for the wide receiver to get off the line. On the plus side, his tackling technique and hip flexibility make for a unique combination at 6’2, 213 pounds.
We talked about how Scharping’s NFL Combine performance alleviated some of the concerns about pure quickness heading into the draft.The Texans went into this year’s draft hoping to cure some of the ills along its offensive line and this selection continues to work in that direction.
3 (88)
Kahale
Warring
TE/San Diego State
57/2nd Round
Warring uses his foot speed to get on top of opponents as a receiver.He still needs refinement in terms of sustaining blocks, but his best football is ahead of him.
Omenihu’s 36 1/2-inch arms continued to aid him in his development while in school.The Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year began to display increased pass rush acumen as a senior when it came to counters.He is a solid run defender and will compete with Carlos Watkins, who has largely been disappointing.
6 (195)
Xavier Crawford
CB/Central Michigan, Oregon State
300/4th Round
After missing seven games at Oregon State in 2017 due to a back injury, the first-team All-MAC corner defended 13 passes in 2018.He competes on routes outside the numbers.
7 (220)
Cullen Gillaspia
FB/Texas A&M
N/A
Texas A&M’s 12th man was a special teams stalwart and team captain.The former walk-on posted nine tackles in 2016.
Tell III (No. 7 pictured) impressed NFL personnel at the 2019 NFL Combine with a 42″vertical jump, 11’4″ broad jump, 4.01 20-yard short shuttle and a 6.63-second time in the three-cone drill.
Indianapolis Colts
Notable picks: General manager Chris Ballard continues to add positive pieces to one of the better young rosters in the NFL. Ya-Sin and Banogu have a chance to add an element of speed and toughness that the defense continues to expand.Okereke and Willis will be special teams contributors in Year 1 with the expectation that they can challenge for bigger roles early.Tell III may be asked to move to cornerback, where his smooth change of direction could perhaps shine.Campbell has the speed to stretch defenses vertically to take some of the pressure off of stud WR T.Y. Hilton, but his potential contributions in the kick return game should not be underestimated.Patterson will compete to backup all three interior line spots.
The first-team All-AAC selection has a background that includes a stint as an All-Big South corner for the Blue Hose.Watching him play puts you in the mind frame of viewing a 6-foot-2 corner (he is nearly 6’0) because he plays bigger than even his size would indicate.
2 (49)
Ben Banogu
DE-OLB/TCU
44/2nd Round
Banogu moved around so much in school and with so much effectiveness, he shouldn’t have been pigeon-holed as a Rush outside linebacker.His loose nature gives him options, but the team is expected to start him with his hand in the dirt.
Campbell’s speed was used more going sideways in school, but he did work the middle of the field on deep crossing patterns and square-ins.The team has a number of targets already efficient in those roles, so how he is incorporated will be interesting to observe.He may be a dynamo as a kickoff returner early.
Okereke’s speed would seem to be a match for the type of scheme the Colts run.His size/speed/weight ratio is in line with 2018 Defensive Rookie of the Year Darius Leonard and fellow LB Anthony Walker.He will start off as a special teams contributor.
Willis’ high football IQ and overall steady nature earned him praise through the draft process.His ability to cover tight ends at 213 pounds also adds to his value.He gives the Colts unique depth at the safety spot.
We speculated that a team would look at Tell’s physical profile and project him to cornerback.He may in fact get an opportunity to show off his cover skills outside in training camp.
5 (164)
EJ Speed
LB/Tarleton State
N/A
Speed overcame some off the field and injury concerns to get into the draft after totaling 106 tackles, 5 QB sacks and 12.5 TFLs in 2018.
Green appeared in 52 games during school and has made starts at both DE and OLB.He will likely become an exchange linebacker, where he has been pretty good at sliding and shuffling despite weighting in the 250-pound range.Versatile performer.
Barton’s lateral kick-slide won to a spot on many occasions in pass pro.He is a decent athlete with questionable leverage.There are possibilities for him to compete with Joe Haeg and Le’Raven Clark for a backup spot outside.
7 (246)
Acquired from Philadelphia via New England
Javon
Patterson
OL/Ole Miss
404/5th Round
The former five-star recruit has to overcome small hands that make it difficult to latch.On the positive side, he is an effective pulling option and cuts off on angles with efficiency as a run blocker.The fact that he has started at OG and OC could him stick in Indy.
Taylor (No. 65 pictured), a former Freshman All-American, made starts at both right tackle and left tackle as a Gator.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Notable picks: It will be interesting to see DC Todd Wash intends to use Allen.He got up to around the 262-pound mark prior to the draft, but he has played in the 240-pound range in the past.He has enough flexibility to be at least serviceable in coverage, but they drafted him to rush the passer.The selection of Taylor would seem to add positive depth to an offensive line always in search of physical players.Williams and Armstead will increase the team’s speed on special teams. This was a solid, if unspectacular, draft haul that produced a number of players who fit the personality and make-up of the current roster.
There may have been some concerns about Taylor’s health, but he is in line with what the Jaguars want to do when it comes to running the ball.Taylor has quality footwork that shines when he is in optimum condition.
3 (69)
Josh Oliver
TE/San Jose State
107/3rd Round
Oliver’s foot speed, ball skills and ability to flex add an element perhaps missing from the team’s offense prior to the draft.He and free agent acquisition Geoff Swaim could potentially form a solid one-two punch at the position.
3 (98)
Quincy Williams
LB/Murray State
339/5th Round
Quinnen Williams’ older brother found a way to sneak into the third round due to his speed and explosiveness.The former safety was frequently walked-out in an overhang position for the Racers, and there is work to be done when it comes to key-and-diagnose from the exchange LB spot.
Armstead’s downhill running style closely mirrors many of the running backs he will compete with for a roster spot.The difference?His 4.45 speed overcomes a bit of a rigid nature and he played a few snaps on defense in 2018 for the Owls.
Minshew carries similar traits to current Jaguars backup Cody Kessler when it comes to hand size, height and weight.He was a bit of a gambler at ECU, but he played at a faster pace under Mike Leach while at Washington State.
Russell kind of got lost in the shuffle in what proved to be a deep defensive tackle class. We felt he had underrated strength, particularly when aligned in an inside shade of an offensive guard or center.If he earns a roster spot, it will be to take some of the snaps off of the team’s starters.
Long (seen scooping the ball versus Utah in the 2017 Heart of Dallas Bowl) was named an AP second-team All-American and the Big 12’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2018. He finished with 111 tackles, 8 QB sacks, 19 TFLs and 4 PBUs.
Tennessee Titans
Notable picks: Simmons may not be available for action until 2020, which requires this draft class to drift into somewhat of a wait-and-see proposition.Brown, however, will have his slot evaluated early on. The same can be said for both Davis and Hooker.Hooker brings a lot of desirable traits to a defensive backfield full of capable playmakers.Walker’s inability to perform until late in the process caused him to slide, but he was at his best against the best competition.There are not many drafts that allow you to draft a conference’s Defensive Player of the Year in the sixth round, but the Titans picked one up from the Big 12 in Long, Jr.
Round,
Selection,
Player
School
DN Big Board
Rank/
Grade
‘Nasty’ Take:
1 (19)
Jeffery
Simmons
DT/
Mississippi State
5/1stRound
With Brian Orakpo’s retirement, the onus falls on Harold Landry -last year’s second-round pick- to take the next step.Although Simmons may redshirt in 2019, he could become a Pro Bowler if he can return to full health after suffering an ACL tear while training for pre-draft workouts.
2 (51)
A.J. Brown
WR/Ole Miss
16/1st Round
Brown’s strong run after the catch skills make him a tough tackle for any defensive back at 226 pounds.He displayed the ability to go outside against Vanderbilt, but he primarily worked from the slot on his Pro Day.
3 (82)
Nate Davis
OG/
Charlotte
92/3rd Round
Despite playing right tackle in 2018, he was outstanding with his quick-set technique as a LG.We were most impressed with his vision, but he needs work on preventing his frame from getting overextended.He will compete for the right guard position in training camp.
The Big Ten Defensive Back of the Year may have been hurt by the fact that he covered the slot in school.He will have to prove that he can get off the hash in coverage, which he has done effectively on occasion.He is at his best reading and passing off underneath routes.
5 (168)
Acquired from N.Y. Jets via New Orleans
D’Andre Walker
OLB/Georgia
85/2nd Round
Walker received one of final second round grades and the Titans were able to pick him up in the fifth round.We liked his ability to work from either a two-point or three-point stance effectively.This team needed more pass rushers and he can play from either side.
Long was nicked for his size and lack of length.He was also unable to complete a full workout until late in the process.The Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year routinely attacks the action and consistently trusts what he sees in front of him.He will have to shine on special teams to earn a roster spot.
Washington offensive tackle Kaleb McGary finished his career with 43 straight starts. The Huskies right tackle is intent on proving to NFL personnel that his heavy-handed nature translates to multiple spots along an offensive line. His efforts include working with a former Pro Bowl offensive lineman and legendary NFL offensive line coach. DraftNasty’s Corey Chavous sat down with him to talk about technique and his future prospects.
McGary: Nice to meet you.
Corey: Nice to meet you too man. You started off today (Senior Bowl 2019 practices, Day 1), with a very strong pass pro period and you complemented that with a strong team period. How did you feel about your first day out here?
McGary: I felt like I had a pretty good day. I think I showed I’m very capable…a very good tackle. I just hope to continue to improve and show that I’m better and better as time goes on.
Corey: Well you’ve played a lot on the right side of the offensive line, but do you feel like you’re capable of playing on the left side if needed?
McGary: I am. Actually the last couple of weeks I’ve done a lot of work with retired coach Howard Mudd (former three-time Pro Bowl offensive lineman and 40-year NFL OL coach who has since this interview been re-hired by the Indianapolis Colts) on guard and left tackle sets. I actually intend to try and jump over to the left side, even guard, if they’ll let me.
Corey: When you talk about being able to play multiple positions, what other positions do you feel like you can backup? Now you talked about guard. Do you feel like you’re a guy who can backup all four positions and maybe be a starter at the right tackle or the left tackle spot?
McGary (No. 58 pictured) earned the Pac-12’s Morris Trophy Award in 2018. The award goes to the conference’s best offensive lineman as voted on by the opposing teams’ players.
McGary: I think so. I was given a lot of really good physical abilities. I’m really flexible for my size so it lets me kinda bend and get down there for a guard position. So I do. I think I’m capable and I think if given a chance I think I can earn my way into any of those four spots.
Corey: Talk about your short-set technique or quick-set or whatever you would describe it as. That’s something that’s been very effective for you. Talk about how you’ve perfected that technique.
McGary: Working with Coach Howard Mudd. He came up with the short-set/dish idea. And just working with him a lot over the time that I’ve known him. Sessions upon sessions with him, and it fits my play style. I like to be aggressive, I like to get on, get up…I don’t like to leave a lot of things to question or room for them to do their thing. I like to put pressure on D-linemen. Can’t wait for them to apply pressure to me. It just fits the way I go.
Corey: Heavy hands. Scouts have described you as having heavy hands. Do you feel like you’ve got heavy hands?
McGary: I think so man. I want let them know if I hit ’em.
Corey: Who was the toughest opponent you went against in school?
McGary: Probably my time against Greg (Gaines) and Vita Vea. Those guys are big, brawny, just freakin’ boulders. Playing against them every day made me what I am I think or it’s a large part of it, having to go against that kind of ability.
Corey: Look forward to you having a great NFL career man..
A furious fourth quarter comeback allowed the Colts to extend their winning streak to five games. The return of Miami starting quarterback Ryan Tannehill was not enough as the Colts defeated the Dolphins, 27-24. DraftNasty’s Troy Jefferson gives his impressions in this in-game report:
Colts passing game
The Colts passing game has powered their five-game winning streak. Despite not having injured starting center Ryan Kelly, Indianapolis kept on humming offensively. Rookie guards Quenton Nelson and Braden Smith are athletic and nasty. Smith could be seen paving the way on a bubble screen on third down for T.Y. Hilton 25 yards down the field. The front five cares about their quarterback, multiple linemen sprinted after the play to see if quarterback Andrew Luck was fine after a late hit from Dolphins linebacker Kiko Alonso. Luck has benefited from the improved offensive line play, throwing for 32 touchdowns and 11 interceptions this season. He has also been sacked just 11 times, which is tied for a league low.
Ryan Tannehill
After missing five weeks of action, Tannehill returned on Sunday and gave the Dolphins consistent play at quarterback against the Colts. It had been three games since the Dolphins had thrown a passing touchdown but Tannehill threw a pair of first half touchdowns to keep Miami tied at half. For the game, Tannehill finished with two touchdowns and zero interceptions while completing 17-of-25 passes. The former Texas A&M quarterback is an upgrade over Brock Osweiler, who started in his absence, but that may not be enough to keep his starting job going into next season. As the Dolphinsn enter the final month of the season, look for the quarterback position to be closely evaluated.
Eric Ebron
Indianapolis tight end Jack Doyle will miss the rest of the year with a kidney injury.
Eric Ebron has been the biggest beneficiary of Andrew Luck’s comeback season. The tight end has caught 44 passes for 508 yards and 11 touchdowns while splitting time with fellow tight end Jack Doyle. Doyle will miss the rest of the season with a kidney injury, which means even more will be asked of the former Detroit Lion. Against the Dolphins, Ebron hauled in a pair of red zone touchdowns, in what was his third multi-touchdown game of the year. Ebron is a red zone threat because of his size and athletic ability. He is able to work the seams and catch in traffic as well as jump over smaller defensive backs. However, his overall skill-set will be measured by how well he can fill in as a run blocking tight end for Doyle, who was one of the NFL’s best in that regard.
Washington had a chance to move to 2-0 for the first time since 2011 but strong play from the Colts defense and key adjustments in the offensive passing game led to an upset. Washington (1-1) fell to Indianapolis (1-1), 21-9. DraftNasty’s Troy Jefferson gives his impressions in this in-game report:
Darius Leonard
Meet the NFL’s tackle leader: Darius Leonard, the 31st-ranked player on DraftNasty’s 2018 Big Board. And if you watched Leonard at South Carolina State this shouldn’t come as a surprise. Leonard stuffed the stat sheet against the Redskins, posting 18 tackles, one quarterback sack, a forced fumble and a pass deflection. As his numbers would indicate, Leonard was dominant in the run and pass game. What was most impressive in the game against Washington was Leonard’s ability to use his closing speed to diagnose plays and keep potential 10-15 yard gains to minimal pickups. The rookie linebacker wears the helmet transmitter during games and has made himself into the quarterback of the defense. His athleticism allows him to match up against tight ends and running backs in the pass game and is willing to help in the run game. He reminds me of Derrick Brooks with his sideline-to-sideline quickness and his matchup versatility. Look for the Colts, who are in a rebuilding mode, to continue to build the defense around rookie linebacker Darius Leonard.
Colts offense
Hilton has 12 receptions and two receiving touchdowns in the first two games of the year.
Frank Reich has made a name in the NFL as a coach because of his ability to adapt and tailor his game plans from week-to-week. The Colts used a heavy diet of pick plays against man-to-man coverage that caught the Redskins off guard. Washington has several corners, including Josh Norman and Quinton Dunbar, who excel in press man coverage and the pick routes used by the Colts allowed their quick-twitched receivers to roam free over the middle of the field and took away the Redskins’ strong suit of jamming receivers at the line. T.Y. Hilton, the Colts star receiver, was the beneficiary of the game plan and from the first drive of the game it was clear that the Colts plan of attack centered on getting Norman off of his body. To begin the second quarter, Luck bought Hilton in motion from the right sideline to the numbers and immediately snapped the ball, which gave the Pro Bowl receiver more room to work with on his post route against Norman, who couldn’t jam the receiver at the line. Hilton finished with seven catches for 83 yards and a touchdown against Washington.
Redskins offense
If the Colts offense was original, the Redskins offense was vanilla and predictable. The Redskins finished with just 65 rushing yards and 269 passing yards, the bulk of which came in garbage time. Washington thrived in Week 1 with a balanced running attack but as has been the case in Jay Gruden’s tenure, the team has a tendency to abandon the run for no obvious reason. The team’s receivers aren’t at the level to carry their offense and struggled against the Colts cornerbacks to get separation in their routes. Look for Washington to get back to a more balanced attack against Green Bay as Gruden may open the game with a deep ball or two to loosen up the Packers secondary.
T.Y. Hilton 25 yards down the field. The front five cares about their quarterback, multiple linemen sprinted after the play to see if quarterback Andrew Luck was fine after a late hit from Dolphins linebacker Kiko Alonso. Luck has benefited from the improved offensive line play, throwing for 32 touchdowns and 11 interceptions this season. He has also been sacked just 11 times, which is tied for a league low.
For the game, Tannehill finished with two touchdowns and zero interceptions while completing 17-of-25 passes. The former Texas A&M quarterback is an upgrade over Brock Osweiler, who started in his absence, but that may not be enough to keep his starting job going into next season. As the Dolphinsn enter the final month of the season, look for the quarterback position to be closely evaluated.
The team’s receivers aren’t at the level to carry their offense and struggled against the Colts cornerbacks to get separation in their routes. Look for Washington to get back to a more balanced attack against Green Bay as Gruden may open the game with a deep ball or two to loosen up the Packers secondary.