NFL Player News - Week of 6/15/20

**BigSpoon** · 06-15-20, 01:20 PM

Lots of Cowboys and Texan players tested positive for the rona. Good to get it now before the season starts I guess.

**Stallion** · 06-15-20, 10:36 PM

Who were some of the other players who tested positive for covid 19??

**BigSpoon** · 06-15-20, 11:41 PM

Originally posted by Stallion

Who were some of the other players who tested positive for covid 19??

Only Zeke's positive test got leaked.

**JAKEPEAVY21** · 06-16-20, 06:22 AM

Originally posted by Stallion

Who were some of the other players who tested positive for covid 19??

Everyone that attended Dak prescott's party...

**LT Profits** · 06-16-20, 09:31 AM

Tuesday Update

Redskins | Teammate drops praise on Steven Sims
Washington Redskins WR Steven Sims has made a 'big jump' this offseason, according to teammate Terry McLaurin, who added Sims has also impressed with his footwork.

Footballguys view: Undrafted out of Kansas in 2019, Sims flashed for Washington...especially near the end of the season. Over the final four games of his rookie year, Sims snared 20 passes for 230 yards and four touchdowns. Washington added WR Antonio Gandy-Golden and RB/WR Antonio Gibson in the 2020 NFL draft, so we'll see how Sims responds to more competition in 2020.

Link to story

Saints | Alvin Kamara riddled with injuries in 2019
New Orleans Saints RB Alvin Kamara 'played through a lot' in 2019, according to running backs coach Joel Thomas, who said Kamara dealt with knee, ankle and back injuries. Thomas also went on to say 'Kamara's 75 percent is a lot of people's 100 percent' and that was why he continued to play as much as he did.

Footballguys view: Kamara only missed two games last year but he did not look like himself while dealing with these injuries. We should see him continue to catch around 80 passes this year while getting near 1,000 yards on the ground. Kamara needs to see a bump up in touchdowns (18 TDs in 2018, 6 TDs in 2019) if he wants to finish as a top-5 fantasy running back.

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Alvin Kamara player page

Vikings | Over the middle not an issue for Kirk Cousins
Minnesota Vikings QB Kirk Cousins posted a passer rating of 129.2 on throws over the middle of the field in 2019, according to Inside Edge NFL.

Footballguys view: Cousins works in a Gary Kubiak offense. That system is all about running the ball to set up play-action passing. Using a play-action fake doesn't always mean firing shots down the field. It can also mean looking to middle routes to chip away at the defense. The team traded away WR Stefon Diggs but they added slot WR Justin Jefferson in the first round of the 2020 NFL draft. Cousins should continue to dominate the middle of the field this season.

Link to story
Kirk Cousins player page

Chiefs | Patrick Mahomes lit it up over the middle
Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes posted a passer rating of 137.4 on throws over the middle of the field in 2019, according to Inside Edge NFL.

Footballguys view: Mahomes is fantastic no matter where he's throwing on the field. He can work the underneath routes over the middle because of guys like TE Travis Kelce. He's the best quarterback in the game and should continue to play at a high level for years to come.

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Patrick Mahomes II player page

Titans | Ryan Tannehill deadly over the middle
Tennessee Titans QB Ryan Tannehill posted an NFL-best passer rating of 154.2 on throws over the middle of the field in 2019, according to Inside Edge NFL.

Footballguys view: Tannehill works the middle of the field and will pick his spots when to attack down the field. He is helped by a tremendous ground game which opens things up as defenses jam the box to stop the run. Tannehill's primary weapons in the passing game are WR A.J. Brown and TE Jonnu Smith, and they should continue getting targeted early and often in 2020.

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Ryan Tannehill player page

Colts | Michael Pittman signs rookie deal
Indianapolis Colts second-round draft choice WR Michael Pittman Jr. signed a four-year contract with the Colts Monday, June 15. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Footballguys view: Pittman is a big-bodied rookie from USC who can play 'above the rim.' He's got a large wingspan and makes for a great target down the field. Pittman is strong but sometimes doesn't dominate as much as he should against smaller defenders. He will compete to be a no.2 receiver for the Colts in 2020.

Link to story

49ers | Kyle Shanahan receives long-term extension
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan agreed to terms on a six-year contract extension with the 49ers that will run through the 2025 season, according to sources. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Footballguys view: Shanahan has really turned things around with the 49ers. They were in the Super Bowl last year, falling short of a championship, but the team is still in a championship window. The extension replaces the final three years of his previous contract.

Link to story

Bills | Zack Moss under contract
Buffalo Bills third-round draft choice RB Zack Moss signed a four-year contract with the Buffalo Bills Monday, June 15. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Footballguys view: Moss has a fine three-down skill set and does a good job with his physical tools. He's a tough runner who can catch cleanly out of the backfield. Moss forced a whopping 89 missed tackles in 2019 (2nd in the FBS) and he broke 33 tackles on 66 catches in his college career. He lacks elite-level speed but he moves efficiently and changes direction without losing much speed.

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Ravens | Lamar Jackson escapes tumble unscathed
Baltimore Ravens QB Lamar Jackson tumbled over a jet ski on the beach in a video posted on social media, landing awkwardly but escaping the situation free of injury.

Footballguys view: Yeah, that's a video that made Ravens fans hearts skip a beat. Jackson was playing beach football and ran towards what must have been the pylon for the 'end zone' which was a jet ski parked on the edge of the water. Thank goodness he's okay.

Link to story
Lamar Jackson player page

Source: footballguys.com

**BarkingToad** · 06-16-20, 10:02 AM

Originally posted by JAKEPEAVY21

Everyone that attended Dak prescott's party...

Has to be

**Otters27** · 06-16-20, 03:38 PM

Originally posted by BigSpoon

Lots of Cowboys and Texan players tested positive for the rona. Good to get it now before the season starts I guess.

Is Zeke feeling real sick or just sniffles and a positive test

**johnnyvegas13** · 06-16-20, 03:40 PM

Can Jackson do a spin move on a jet ski

**JAKEPEAVY21** · 06-17-20, 06:35 AM

Originally posted by johnnyvegas13

Can Jackson do a spin move on a jet ski

that jet ski is a solid open field tackler...

**LT Profits** · 06-17-20, 11:16 AM

Wednesday Update

Saints | Alvin Kamara improved on little things
New Orleans Saints RB Alvin Kamara stepped up in pass protection, made defenders miss whether he was in open space or in barely any space at all and ran through tackle attempts by people who had 70 pounds on him, according to running backs coach Joel Thomas.
Link to story
Alvin Kamara player page

Vikings | Dalvin Cook's impact on Kirk Cousins
Minnesota Vikings QB Kirk Cousins completed 65.5 percent of his passes, averaged 7.3 yards per pass attempt, threw 10 touchdowns versus five interceptions and recorded a passer rating of 94.8 when RB Dalvin Cook was not on the field in 2019. Conversely, Cousins completed 71 percent of his passes, averaged 8.5 yards per attempt, threw 16 touchdowns versus one interception and recorded a passer rating of 114.3 when Cook was on the field.

Footballguys view: Cook helps Cousins because teams are concerned about the run. The Vikings have a Gary Kubiak offense and that's all about play-action passing and running the ball more than most others in the NFL. Expect more of the same in 2020.

Link to story
Kirk Cousins player page
Dalvin Cook player page

Dolphins | Tua Tagovailoa begins worth with team doctors
Miami Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa (hip) relocated to South Florida over the weekend and began training at the team's Davie facility Monday, June 15. 'He's a little bit ahead as far as where we would like him,' said Kevin Wilk, a renowned physical therapist who had been working with Tagovailoa. 'We're constantly trying to slow him down just a little bit because an athlete like that is just chomping at the bit just begging to get back out there. He wants to do more and more so we have to hold him back. And really, that was from the beginning. He always wanted to do more.'

Footballguys view: Tagovailoa is hopefully going to be the franchise quarterback the Dolphins haven't had since the days of Dan Marino. If healthy, Tagovailoa certainly has an elite-level skill set as an athlete and as a passer. We'll see him compete with Ryan Fitzpatrick for the starting job this season.

Link to story

49ers | San Francisco still looking to lock up John Lynch
San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch, the 2019 NFL Executive of the Year, is expected to be signed to a contract to keep him paired with head coach Kyle Shanahan through at least the 2025 season, according to Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area.

Footballguys view: Lynch and Shanahan both signed six-year contracts with the 49ers three years ago. With Shanahan re-upped by the team earlier this week, expect Lynch to get a similar extension. The 49ers are in a Super Bowl window under the guidance of Lynch and have worked to become one of the best teams in the game today.

Link to story
John Lynch player page

Colts | Michael Pittman officially under contract
Updating a previous story, Indianapolis Colts second-round WR Michael Pittman officially signed his four-year rookie contract Tuesday, June 16. Financial terms of the deal weren't disclosed.

Footballguys view: Pittman is a big-bodied rookie from USC who can go up high and get the football. He's tall, strong and has a large wingspan which allows him to get to passes that smaller defenders just can't reach. We'd like to see him run better routes and be a little bit more physical at the catch point. Pittman is competing with the likes of Parris Campbell to be the no.2 receiver opposite of T.Y. Hilton in 2020.

Link to story

Buccaneers | Scott Miller best bet for WR3 job?
Tampa Bay Buccaneers WR Scott Miller is the team's best fit as the Week 1 WR3, according to Jon Ledyard of PewterReport.com. Miller provides the best skill set with the vertical ability to stretch defenses and post-catch abilities, according to Ledyard.

Footballguys view: Miller is capable of cleaning up on underneath routes. He could see favorable coverage with teams so concerned with the 'big two' receivers on the outside Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. Throw in three quality tight ends (O.J. Howard, Cameron Brate, Rob Gronkowski) and you can see how Miller is low in the pecking order for targets this season.

Link to story
Scott Miller player page

Eagles | Jalen Reagor to learn from DeSean Jackson
Philadelphia Eagles WR Jalen Reagor will learn from veteran WR DeSean Jackson in 2020, according to head coach Doug Pederson Tuesday, June 16. 'He's going to come in and he's going to learn one position and he is going to learn from DeSean Jackson, and learn everything he can,' Pederson said. 'Obviously the playbook is extensive and we just have to see what he's taken from the offseason to training camp, and then once we see his potential and his growth, then we can use him in multiple spots.'But one of the things that all of our receivers really have the capability of doing is moving inside, whether they are an outside guy going inside or an inside guy going outside. We'll keep him at one position to start and we'll grow from there.'

Footballguys view: Reagor has plenty of speed and quickness to his game. He can thrive on deep routes over his shoulder but he can also take short passes and turn them into long gains. The rookie first-round pick from TCU should be able to pick up quite a bit from Jackson. Reagor's current ADP is WR51 (11.09) in 12-team PPR leagues.

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Colts | Jonathan Taylor not concerned with timeshare
Indianapolis Colts RB Jonathan Taylor said Tuesday, June 16, he isn't concerned about splitting time with RB Marlon Mack in 2020. 'You don't count the reps, you make the reps count,' Taylor said.

Footballguys view: That sounds like Taylor. He's the ultimate 'lunch pail' running back who just wants to show up and punish defenders. There's not a lot of nuance to his game, but Taylor wastes little motion and can be tough to bring down when he builds a head of steam. Add in RB Nyheim Hines catching passes out of the backfield and you see a three-headed RBBC for the Colts this year.

Link to story
Marlon Mack player page

Panthers | Carolina to hold kicking competition
Carolina Panthers PKs Graham Gano and Joey Slye will compete for a job in training camp and the preseason, according to special teams coordinator Chase Blackburn Tuesday, June 16. Blackburn said both kickers are talented.
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Graham Gano player page

Buccaneers | Byron Leftwich happy with RBs room
Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Byron Leftwich said Tuesday, June 16, he's comfortable with the running backs the team has and trusts in their abilities to get the job done. Leftwich also said RBs Ke'Shawn Vaughn and Raymond Calais can make big plays, and he's happy the team drafted them.

Footballguys view: Vaughn is the player who could push starter Ronald Jones for playing time. The rookie from Vanderbilt has a no-nonsense rushing style and can grind down opponents. He averaged around 6.0 yards per carry running between the tackles last year plus Vaughn caught 28 passes in 2019. His pass-protection must improve if he's going to get much playing time as a rookie.

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Rams | Jared Goff struggles past first read
Los Angeles Rams QB Jared Goff had the lowest Pro Football Focus in the NFL last season when forced to look past his first read. He has a top-10 PFF grade on first-read throws over the last two seasons.

Footballguys view: That's a pretty telling stat for Goff...and it backs up the film. If he's on time and on rhythm with the first read, then Goff can be pretty efficient. However, when he's forced to go away from his initial read then the young quarterback still struggles. He put the ball in the air 626 times in 2019 but was not an efficient passer. From a fantasy perspective, Goff is a QB2 with upside.

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Jared Goff player page

Eagles | Alshon Jeffery remains a big part of offense
Philadelphia Eagles WR Alshon Jeffery (foot) is without a timetable for his full recovery from the Lisfranc injury that ended his 2019 campaign, but head coach Doug Pederson said Tuesday, June 16, Jeffery will remain a key piece of the passing game once able to take the field. 'Alshon has done extremely well this off-season with his rehab. . . . ,' Pederson said. 'I just want him to focus on his rehab and get strong, but the second part of your question is, he's a big part of our offense, and we do plan to have him in the offense at some point. But if there's a couple games there where he's not ready, then, we're not going to put him out there and just wait for him to get healthy.'

Footballguys view: Yeah, that's great and all but it sounds a bit too much like 'coach speak' here. Jeffery is recovering from lis franc surgery in mid-December. His Week 1 status is unknown. He should be a WR5 for Fantasy GMs this year which means you won't be looking to Jeffery that often, even if the coach insists that the veteran is still going to be a big part of the offense.

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Alshon Jeffery player page

Source: footballguys.com

**JAKEPEAVY21** · 06-18-20, 06:31 AM

Jared Goff has trouble going through his progressions

**BarkingToad** · 06-18-20, 06:38 AM

Originally posted by JAKEPEAVY21

Jared Goff has trouble going through his progressions

Typical J-Goof

**mpaschal34** · 06-18-20, 08:05 AM

Originally posted by JAKEPEAVY21

Jared Goff has trouble going through his progressions

bottom 5 QB in the league.

**Otters27** · 06-18-20, 10:46 AM

Both Goff and Wentz may not be franchise QB

**LT Profits** · 06-18-20, 11:19 AM

Thursday Update

Raiders | Henry Ruggs to start
Las Vegas Raiders first-round pick Henry Ruggs III is expected to start at the Z position, according to sources.
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Redskins | Some clarity in Washington backfield?
Washington Redskins RBs Adrian Peterson and Derrius Guice will likely split carries to begin the season, while RB J.D. McKissic serves as the third-down back, according to Kyle Stackpole of the team's website. Stackpole also expects RB Antonio Gibson to be used 'in all sorts of different plays and formations.' However, he's not sure what kind of role would be left for RB Bryce Love.
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Adrian Peterson player page
Derrius Guice player page
Bryce Love player page

Redskins | Logan Thomas draws high praise
Washington Redskins TE Logan Thomas is expected to compete with Jeremy Sprinkle and Richard Rodgers for the starting job at tight end, but Kyle Stackpole of the team's website believes Thomas could be the frontrunner to win the job based on some of the feedback he has received from the new coaching staff.'Logan Thomas is a guy that we see some glimpses of (Greg Olsen's) type of athletic ability. (Tight ends coach) Pete Hoener ... felt very strongly about this guy's abilities, mostly because he thought he was a very smart and savvy football player, he's a tremendous athlete and he's just learning and getting the position right now,' head coach Ron Rivera said.
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Logan Thomas player page
Jeremy Sprinkle player page

Browns | OC excited about Donovan Peoples-Jones
Cleveland Browns WR Donovan Peoples-Jones possesses an 'obvious' skillset and has done nothing to dampen the team's enthusiasm about their sixth-round draft pick, according to passing game coordinator and wide receivers Chad O'Shea.'We thought we were getting a solid person who has the ability to play from a mental standpoint in several positions, which will help him increase his opportunities with us. ... It jumped out at us as far as where he is physically and the potential that he has to grow even more. Just like the other guys in the program, he has come in, he has really worked hard and he has tried to do what we've asked,' O'Shea said.
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Chargers | No workout with Colin Kaepernick yet
Updating a previous report, free-agent QB Colin Kaepernick (49ers) is not scheduled to work out for the Los Angeles Chargers at this point, according to head coach Anthony Lynn. Lynn said the team has not been in contact with Kaepernick.
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Colin Kaepernick player page

Browns | Several candidates for No. 3 WR job
Cleveland Browns WRs Rashard Higgins, Damion Ratley, Donovan Peoples-Jones and KhaDarel Hodge are the candidates for the No. 3 receiver job entering training camp, according to wide receiver coach Chad O'Shea. RB Kareem Hunt could also be an option for the job.
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Rashard Higgins player page
Kareem Hunt player page
Damion Ratley player page

Colts | Michael Pittman worked out with teammates
Indianapolis Colts WR Michael Pittman Jr. said he was able to work out with QB Jacob Eason and WR Dezmon Patmon this offseason.

Footballguys view: Pittman can win the no.2 job for the Colts opposite of T.Y. Hilton if he performs well in training camp and the preseason. The rookie from USC has size and can win at the catch point...certainly when he catches the ball at the highest level. His routes and strength on contested catches needs improvement but we like his overall game.

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Steelers | Deon Cain's spot uncertain
Pittsburgh Steelers WR Deon Cain has a chance to make the final roster but his spot on the team is not guaranteed.

Footballguys view: A sixth-round pick out of Clemson in the 2018 NFL draft (Colts), Cain is a player we've been monitoring in deep dynasty formats. He's got good speed down the field and a large catch radius. The Steelers picked him up after the Colts waived him in 2019. The wide receiver position is jam-packed in Pittsburgh, so we'll see if Cain can stand out.

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Deon Cain player page

Ravens | Gus Edwards expects all RBs to have role
Baltimore Ravens RB Gus Edwards said he believes the team will be able to keep the top four running backs involved in the offense this season.

Footballguys view: Edwards is correct but that role for some (himself included) is going to be limited unless someone gets banged up. They already have veteran Mark Ingram as a quality starter but in the second round of the 2020 NFL draft they acquired arguably the best running back in the class by selecting J.K. Dobbins from Ohio State. Those two will serve as the 1-2 punch for the Ravens on the ground. Edwards will give the team some power and could see time on third-down-and-short situations or near the goal-line.

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Gus Edwards player page

Vikings | Justin Jefferson to work in slot
Minnesota Vikings WR Justin Jefferson likely will receive a lot of snaps as the slot receiver, according to offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak.

Footballguys view: That's where he thrived at LSU in 2019. Jefferson caught 109 of 111 receptions from the slot for the Bayou Bengals last season, and he did not look as good running more routes outside back in 2018. From the slot, Jefferson can get an easier release and get into his routes. Once open underneath, Jefferson can pull away from defenders with his run-after-the-catch ability. He's a WR5 with upside for Fantasy GMs in 2020 as the Vikings no.2 receiver behind only Adam Thielen.

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Ravens | Two Ravens RBs working out together
Baltimore Ravens RB Gus Edwards said he has been working out with RB Justice Hill multiple times a week this offseason. They have been participating in drills during the workouts.

Footballguys view: There was a ton of buzz around Hill last year as a rookie but he didn't get a chance to do much for the Ravens in 2019. This year, the team went out and added a potential star running back in J.K. Dobbins (Ohio State) in the second round of the 2020 NFL draft. That pushes Hill further down the depth chart as he's no.3 or no.4 at the position behind Dobbins and Mark Ingram. We still love Hill in dynasty formats.

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Gus Edwards player page
Justice Hill player page

Cardinals | Kyler Murray hopes to work with WRs soon
Arizona Cardinals QB Kyler Murray said he has been throwing to receivers in Houston but hopes to work out with the Cardinals wide receivers in the near future.

Footballguys view: Seemingly every quarterback in the league is getting together with his offense during this virtual offseason so they can get in some on-field workouts. Murray has an incredible skill set with his arm talent and athleticism. By adding a superstar wide receiver to the mix like DeAndre Hopkins, Murray should be able to pay off as a high-upside starter and QB1 for Fantasy GMs in 2020.

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Kyler Murray player page

Browns | Kareem Hunt works with WRs
Cleveland Browns RB Kareem Hunt participated in some of the receiver meetings this offseason, according to wide receivers coach Chad O'Shea.

Footballguys view: Hunt is a weapon as a receiver out of the backfield and you can even line him up in the slot. He's the backup to Nick Chubb but he should be able to see plenty of playing time this year. In fact, while Chubb is a RB1 for Fantasy GMs out there we see Hunt as a strong flex option in PPR leagues. Hunt has a current ADP of RB27 (5.06) in 12-team PPR formats.

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Kareem Hunt player page

Source: footballguys.com

**LT Profits** · 06-19-20, 09:35 AM

Friday Update

Panthers | Curtis Samuel to be used in space
Carolina Panthers WR Curtis Samuel is expected to be used in space all around the field, according to offensive coordinator Joe Brady. 'Curtis is going to be critical to success,' Brady said. 'Curtis is the one that I can't wait to see him do what he does on the field. Curtis is a playmaker. He fits the mold of what we're looking for in this type of offense, a guy that you can utilize all around the field and get the ball in the hands and good things happen. I think you saw stuff last year that shows that he can be a big-play wide receiver, down the field. We're getting the ball in space and I'm excited for him to take the next leap.'
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Curtis Samuel player page

Raiders | Derek Carr had his share of open passing lanes
Las Vegas Raiders QB Derek Carr attempted 108 passes with at least eight defenders in the box in 2019 - the fourth-highest total in the league - according to Pro Football Focus.

Footballguys view: Defenses who go up against the Raiders are trying to stop or at least slow down Josh Jacobs. That should be the case once again in 2020. Keep this in mind when considering WR Henry Ruggs for your fantasy team. That elite-level speed and one-on-one coverage could mean good things for the rookie wideout.

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Derek Carr player page

49ers | Jimmy Garoppolo used to seeing loaded boxes
San Francisco 49ers QB Jimmy Garoppolo threw 127 passes with at least eight defenders in the box in 2019 - the second-highest total in the league - according to Pro Football Focus.

Footballguys view: No surprise here. The 49ers run the heck out of the ball and defenses focus on stopping that. They set up play-action passing due to that ground game, and that leads to stacked boxes.

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Jimmy Garoppolo player page

Vikings | Kirk Cousins saw plenty of favorable coverage
Minnesota Vikings QB Kirk Cousins threw a league-high 135 passes with at least eight defenders in the box in 2019, according to Pro Football Focus.

Footballguys view: That's what a Gary Kubiak offense gets you. The Vikings want to use wide zone running to keep the attention of the defense. That leads to defenders jamming up the box.

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Kirk Cousins player page

Panthers | Christian McCaffrey will see plenty of work
Carolina Panthers RB Christian McCaffrey will receive plenty of touches this upcoming season, but offensive coordinator Joe Brady said he is not sure if McCaffrey will match the 429 touches he received in 2019.
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Christian McCaffrey player page

Titans | A.J. Brown outstanding on play action
Tennessee Titans WR A.J. Brown recorded 646 receiving yards on play action passes during the 2019 season, which ranked first in the NFL.
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A.J. Brown player page

49ers | Deebo Samuel expects quick recovery
San Francisco 49ers WR Deebo Samuel (foot) said he expects to return to the field in 10 weeks.

Footballguys view: Samuel may expect that but we are a long way from that point...and he has yet to have surgery. It's looking like the second-year wideout could begin the 2020 regular season on the PUP list, forcing him to miss at least the first six weeks when the team starts playing.

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Deebo Samuel player page

Lions | T.J. Hockenson not fully healthy
Detroit Lions TE T.J. Hockenson (ankle) has been able to start running routes a part of his rehab but has not completely recovered from his ankle injury, according to offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell.

Footballguys view: The team likes where Hockenson is at in his recovery, he just has some more time to go. Hockenson is a fantastic talent but that ankle injury last November ended what was largely a disappointing rookie season (outside of Week 1) for the 2019 first-round pick. We'll see how much he gets eased into action when training camp gets here.

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T.J. Hockenson player page

Cardinals | Kyler Murray planning workouts
Arizona Cardinals QB Kyler Murray has invited 20 of his teammates to participate in workouts in Dallas starting this weekend, according to sources. He invited three other quarterbacks, four running backs, nine receivers and four tight ends to the workouts.

Footballguys view: Murray is getting stuff together to work out with teammates, just like every other quarterback out there pretty much. He's a QB1 for Fantasy GMs and has tremendous upside due to his athleticism, the high-powered nature of the Kliff Kingsbury offense and new superstar WR DeAndre Hopkins.

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Kyler Murray player page

Jaguars | Collin Johnson signs rookie deal
Jacksonville Jaguars fifth-round draft choice WR Collin Johnson signed a four-year contract with the Jaguars Thursday, June 18. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Footballguys view: Johnson is a huge target who could work well in the red zone for the Jaguars. He lacks run-after-the-catch ability but Johnson is a strong run-blocker and has soft hands as a receiver. He knows how to use his frame to his advantage and should begin his pro career as a sub-package wide receiver.

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NFL | Josh Gordon applies for reinstatement
Free-agent WR Josh Gordon (Seahawks) submitted his letter to the NFL on Wednesday, June 18, to apply for reinstatement.

Footballguys view: We'll see if the Seahawks want to give Gordon another chance. The new CBA has a lighter stance on marijuana so that's something that could work in Gordon's favor. Gordon has been keeping in football shape and hopes to be reinstated in time for training camp.

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Josh Gordon player page

49ers | Deebo Samuel has a broken foot
San Francisco 49ers WR Deebo Samuel (foot) suffered a Jones fracture in his foot while working out Thursday, June 18. He will have surgery today, performed by Dr. Robert Anderson, and Samuel should be able to return to full strength in three to four months.

Footballguys view: Horrible news for the 49ers and the young WR here. Samuel has a Jones fracture and is likely to begin the regular season on the PUP list. Without complications he might be able to return after the mandatory six-week absence. That puts him in play around the middle of the regular season for a return. Now, 2020 first-round pick Brandon Aiyuk takes on an even larger role in that offense. We'll see if someone like Kendrick Bourne or Jalen Hurd can elevate their game while Samuel is out.

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Deebo Samuel player page

Raiders | Mark Davis supports adding Colin Kaepernick
Las Vegas Raiders owner Mark Davis said Wednesday, June 17, he embraces the idea of the team signing free-agent QB Colin Kaepernick (49ers). 'Since 2017, I've told the coaches and general managers that if they want to hire Colin Kaepernick, they have my blessing,' Davis told ESPN.

Footballguys view: The Raiders have Derek Carr and Marcus Mariota in the mix to compete for the starting job this year. We're hearing more interest about Kaepernick around the league but no workouts have been scheduled yet. Stay tuned.

Link to story
Colin Kaepernick player page

Vikings | Gary Kubiak talks Dalvin Cook
Minnesota Vikings RB Dalvin Cook's potential holdout is of little concern to offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak. During a Wednesday, June 17, talk with reporters, Kubiak said 'That's part of the business. We all understand that. Those guys will do their job,' Kubiak said in reference to the front office negotiating with Cook's representation. 'We have to stay focused on our job as a football team moving forward.' Kubiak added, 'He's got as good a grasp at what we do and how we go about it. He could teach class (on our system) because he's that bright and that smart of a football player.'

Footballguys view: Cook wants a new, big-money deal as he's in the final year of his rookie contract. He's the centerpiece of the Vikings offense and the two sides should be able to come to an agreement at some point. We'll see how this shakes out as reports indicate Cook is prepared to sit out the season. That's a bit extreme in our eyes, so we'll see if they can find a deal that works.

Link to story
Dalvin Cook player page

Source: footballguys.com

**BarkingToad** · 06-19-20, 11:57 AM

Potential of Kaep and Mariota on same team

**mpaschal34** · 06-19-20, 12:47 PM

hard to believe Gordon is only 29 (with EIGHT suspensions).

**KnuckleHeadz** · 06-19-20, 12:54 PM

Originally posted by mpaschal34

hard to believe Gordon is only 29 (with EIGHT suspensions).

Why’s that?
Most Blackies have 8 suspensions or school transfers by 8th grade

**mpaschal34** · 06-20-20, 08:35 AM

The Clemson outbreak of 23 Covid-19 cases is why I still say there will be no football this year. It will spread like wildfire throughout the league.

**LT Profits** · 06-20-20, 08:45 AM

Saturday Update

Vikings | Limited role for Tajae Sharpe?
Minnesota Vikings WR Tajae Sharpe 'provides reliable depth' at the receiver position but will likely play behind WR Justin Jefferson, according to Andrew Krammer of the Minneapolis Star Tribune.
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Tajae Sharpe player page

NFL | Jordan Reed still committed
Free-agent TE Jordan Reed (Redskins) reiterated that he still wants to continue his NFL career.
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Jordan Reed player page

49ers | Brandon Aiyuk could fill void
San Francisco 49ers WR Brandon Aiyuk could have a 'bigger role' early in the season than initially planned because of the injury to WR Deebo Samuel (foot), according to Matt Barrows of The Athletic.
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Seahawks | Two TEs have chance to make roster
Seattle Seahawks TEs Jacob Hollister and Luke Willson likely will both make the final roster because of TE Colby Parkinson's (foot) injury, in the opinion of NBC Sports Northwest's Joe Fann.
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Luke Willson player page
Jacob Hollister player page

Colts | Jordan Wilkins unlikely to see many snaps
Indianapolis Colts RB Jordan Wilkins has a chance to win the No. 4 running back job during training camp but likely would not see much playing time during the regular season, in the opinion of ColtsWire's Kevin Hickey.
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Jordan Wilkins player page

Bills | Isaiah McKenzie may make roster
Buffalo Bills WR Isaiah McKenzie has a good chance to make the final roster because he can be used multiple ways on offense.
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Isaiah McKenzie player page

Steelers | Several may compete for one spot
Pittsburgh Steelers WRs Amara Darboh, Deon Cain, Saeed Blacknall, Anthony Johnson and Quadree Henderson may compete for one roster spot during training camp.

Footballguys view: Cain has the highest ceiling after being claimed from the Colts last year. Darboh went in the third round of 2017 draft. Blacknall played in the XFL and has an intriguing size/speed combination. Johnson was highly productive in college but didn't stick with the Bucs as an undrafted free agent last year. Henderson has the most value on special teams. If you're going to roster one in your dynasty league, make it Cain.

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Amara Darboh player page
Deon Cain player page
Anthony Johnson player page

Jets | Denzel Mims agrees to $5.4M deal
New York Jets WR Denzel Mims on Friday, June 19, agreed to a four-year, $5.4 million contract, according to a source. The deal includes $3 million in guarantees.

Footballguys view: Mims should have a chance to be a starter with a good camp and preseason. Josh Doctson and Vyncint Smith are his main competitors for playing time and Breshad Perriman should be the starter on the other side of the formation. He has great size, speed, and athleticism, but needs refinement as a route runner.

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Bears | Darnell Mooney praised as explosive
Chicago Bears WR Darnell Mooney is drawing praise from wide receivers coach Mike Furrey. 'He's gonna probably be one of the most explosive guys that we have in our room in regard to matching his speed with his agility,' Furrey said of Mooney in an interview published Friday, June 19.

Footballguys view: The Bears offense has an opening for a speed receiver after they didn't bring back Taylor Gabriel. Mooney fits the ball, but he might not be ready for significant snaps after the offseason was cancelled due to coronvirus. Ted Ginn and Trevor Davis were also signed this offseason and could run some vertical routes if Mooney isn't in the coaches circle of trust at the end of camp.

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Colts | Philip Rivers a big-time passer?
Indianapolis Colts QB Philip Rivers in 2019 tied for second in the AFC with the Cleveland Browns' Baker Mayfield and the Kansas City Chiefs' Patrick Mahomes with 27 big-time throws (Pro Football Focus' highest-graded throws on precise downfield passes).

Footballguys view: Rivers also made a lot of mistakes on downfield throws last year and appeared to be in decline. Hopefully a better offensive line and strong running game helps him become more efficient. Mayfield's number is encouraging in an otherwise discouraging season. Mahomes would have led the league in this stat if he had played 16 games.

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Philip Rivers player page

Source: footballguys.com

**BarkingToad** · 06-21-20, 03:03 AM

Originally posted by mpaschal34

The Clemson outbreak of 23 Covid-19 cases is why I still say there will be no football this year. It will spread like wildfire throughout the league.

Not a good sign

**JAKEPEAVY21** · 06-21-20, 06:41 AM

Originally posted by BarkingToad

Not a good sign

Nope...sadly all American sports will likely get cancelled this year.

**LT Profits** · 06-21-20, 08:47 AM

Sunday Update

Steelers | Benny Snell worked for his yards
Pittsburgh Steelers RB Benny Snell's 1.2 yards before contact were tied for the fewest in the NFL in 2019, but he was tied for fifth with 2.8 yards after contact.
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Benny Snell player page

Bears | David Montgomery eyes improvement
Chicago Bears RB David Montgomery said he is better prepared to lead the backfield in 2020 and expects improvement in a running game that ranked 27th in the NFL in rushing yards, 28th in rushing touchdowns and 29th in yards per carry last year.
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David Montgomery player page

Cardinals | DeAndre Hopkins in rare company
Arizona Cardinals WR DeAndre Hopkins is one of three receivers in NFL history to record over 600 receptions, 8,500 receiving yards and 50 receiving touchdowns in his first seven seasons.
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DeAndre Hopkins player page

Redskins | Terry McLaurin made most of chances
Washington Redskins WR Terry McLaurin was one of four players to top 900 receiving yards on fewer than 100 targets in 2019.
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Terry McLaurin player page

Lions | Kenny Golladay delivering big plays
Detroit Lions WR Kenny Golladay's 16.7 yards per reception since 2018 rank second among all receivers with at least 100 receptions in that span.
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Kenny Golladay player page

Bears | Adam Shaheen expected to have role
Chicago Bears TE Adam Shaheen is still part of the team's plans on offense this upcoming season, according to tight ends coach Clancy Barone.
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Adam Shaheen player page

Eagles | Dallas Goedert involved in altercation
Philadelphia Eagles TE Dallas Goedert was punched during an altercation at a restaurant Friday, June 19, and was sent to the hospital as a precaution, according to a source. He did not suffer any injuries and was said to be fine after the incident.
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Dallas Goedert player page

Rams | Malcolm Brown may have smaller role
Los Angeles Rams RB Malcolm Brown may be limited to goal line and short yardage work this upcoming season depending on how RBs Cam Akers and Darrell Henderson perform, in the opinion of RamsWire's Cameron DaSilva.

Footballguys view: This running back situation could prove to be quite problematic for Fantasy GMs in 2020. Akers is the talented, no-nonsense rookie while Henderson provides some big-play ability to the backfield. Brown has some power to his game but might be third in the pecking order. We'll see how this competition shapes up in training camp but we could be headed for a three-headed RBBC with the Rams.

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Malcolm Brown player page

Cowboys | Dak Prescott successful in no huddle
Dallas Cowboys QB Dak Prescott threw for 809 yards when the team was using the no-huddle offense during the 2019 season.

Footballguys view: Prescott has no worries when in the no-huddle offense. He's got great weapons around him and a superstar running back Ezekiel Elliott to hand the ball to. The team also added a potential Pro Bowl WR in rookie CeeDee Lamb with their first-round pick in the 2020 NFL draft. Expect these numbers to continue for Prescott.

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Dak Prescott player page

Cardinals | Kyler Murray outstanding in no huddle
Arizona Cardinals QB Kyler Murray threw for 1,441 yards when the team was using the no-huddle offense during the 2019 season.

Footballguys view: Murray can run a fast-break offense like Kliff Kingsbury implemented in Arizona last year. He should be even better this season as he is more experienced and the team secured the services of superstar WR DeAndre Hopkins via trade earlier this offseason. Murray is a QB1 for Fantasy GMs and a no-brainer starter each week.

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Kyler Murray player page

Cardinals | Larry Fitzgerald excelled on screens
Arizona Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald finished second among wide receivers in 2019 with 121 yards on screen passes, according to Pro Football Focus data.

Footballguys view: Fitzgerald may not be the player he used to be but he can still post strong numbers on the football field. With screen passes being his forte, the Cardinals offense should be able to set up a ton of deep looks for WR DeAndre Hopkins. This offense is going to be fun to watch in 2020 and one that Fantasy GMs want to invest in.

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Larry Fitzgerald player page

Rams | Robert Woods No. 1 in screen yards
Los Angeles Rams WR Robert Woods led all wide receivers in 2019 with 146 yards on screen passes, according to Pro Football Focus data.

Footballguys view: Woods is going to continue as a high-value target for the Rams in 2020. He's a high-floor WR2 for Fantasy GMs this season and could bump to a top-15 wideout if he increases his number of touchdown catches this year.

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Robert Woods player page

Broncos | Courtland Sutton a PI magnet
Denver Broncos WR Courtland Sutton has drawn 12 pass-interference penalties in coverage since 2018 -- the second most in the league over that span according to Pro Football Focus data.

Footballguys view: Sutton has a big body, long arms and leaping ability which makes him difficult to get around. Defenders have no choice but to get physical with the young wideout who has just shown us the tip of the iceberg in the NFL. Sutton was able to go over 1,000 yards receiving with three QBs last year (Joe Flacco, Brandon Allen, Drew Lock), something only Kenny Golladay also did in 2019. With Lock entrenched as the starter and Sutton his most experienced target, we could see career-best numbers from the third-year player.

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Courtland Sutton player page

Bears | Allen Robinson tops in drawing PI
Chicago Bears WR Allen Robinson has drawn a league-high 14 pass-interference penalties in coverage since 2018, according to Pro Football Focus data.

Footballguys view: Too bad you don't get fantasy points for that. Robinson was able to turn in a WR1 season last year with Mitchell Trubisky tossing him the rock. We'll see if Nick Foles can beat out Trubisky for the starting job in training camp and how that would impact guys like Robinson. Due to his large role and natural talent, Fantasy GMs are wise to consider Robinson a low-end WR1 again in 2020.

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Allen Robinson player page

Seahawks | Russell Wilson tops in PFF metric
Seattle Seahawks QB Russell Wilson led the league in 2019 with 40 big-time throws (Pro Football Focus' highest-graded throws on precise downfield passes).

Footballguys view: Wilson should rank high on the big-time throw list in 2020 as well. It's his touch when throwing down the field coupled with the fact that he does such a great job of extending plays. There are many reasons why Wilson is one of the best in the game and this piece of advanced data is just another point.

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Russell Wilson player page

Source: footballguys.com

**jrgum3** · 06-21-20, 11:22 PM

Originally posted by JAKEPEAVY21

Nope...sadly all American sports will likely get cancelled this year.

I hope not but unfortunately with the spike in number of Covid 19 cases amongst players and staff they may have no choice but to cancel.

**mpaschal34** · 06-21-20, 11:25 PM

Originally posted by JAKEPEAVY21

Nope...sadly all American sports will likely get cancelled this year.

yep....hearing outbreaks in baseball and hockey as well...this year ain't happening.

dallas hospitals are at 75% capacity....only a matter of time before they are over-flowing. about to get shut back down.

**batt33** · 06-21-20, 11:26 PM

Originally posted by JAKEPEAVY21

Nope...sadly all American sports will likely get cancelled this year.

sport of kings still going!

**BarkingToad** · 06-22-20, 02:06 AM

Originally posted by batt33

sport of kings still going!

None of the horses have gotten the Kung Flu, it's the Santa Anita race track that's killing them.

**Otters27** · 06-22-20, 02:30 AM

Soccer in Europe. How'd they do it

**JAKEPEAVY21** · 06-22-20, 07:13 AM

Originally posted by mpaschal34

yep....hearing outbreaks in baseball and hockey as well...this year ain't happening.

dallas hospitals are at 75% capacity....only a matter of time before they are over-flowing. about to get shut back down.

I was feeling pretty confident up until a few weeks ago when the riots and protests started. Now with all these guys testing positive(Clemson, LSU, Texas etc) since practices have resumed, resigned to the fact that chances are slim.