Blog Brav's Neutral Zone Distraction Blog - NFL stuff

Game of the Week for the sixth edition will drop sometime tomorrow. In the meantime, let's do a recap of all the games!

• Indianapolis Colts @ New England Patriots - Final score 24-38 Thursday Night Football
  • Patriots quarterback Tom Brady threw his 500th career touchdown pass to pull New England in their second consecutive win this season over the Colts.
• Tennessee Titans @ Buffalo Bills - Final score 12-13
  • Bills kicker Stephen Hauschka nailed a 46 yard field goal to power the Bills past the Titans.
• Atlanta Falcons @ Pittsburgh Steelers - Final score 17-41
  • Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and wideout Antonio Brown scored two touchdowns in the second half to pull away from the Falcons.
• Denver Broncos @ New York Jets - Final score 16-34
  • The efforts of Jets running back Isaiah Crowell and wideout Robby Anderson helped Sam Darnold earn a well-deserved win over the Broncos.
• Jacksonville Jaguars @ Kansas City Chiefs - Final score 14-30
  • The Chiefs defense came up big against Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles, tallying 5 sacks and picking him off 4 times in a home victory. The Chiefs are one of two undefeated teams this season.
• Green Bay Packers @ Detroit Lions - Final score 23-31
  • The Lions capitalized and took advantage of Packers kicker Mason Crosby, who missed 4 field goals and a PAT that cost 13 points.
• Baltimore Ravens @ Cleveland Browns - Final score 9-12 OT
  • The Cleveland Browns win their second game in overtime on a barely-cleared field goal in an epic home winner against the divisional rival Ravens.
• New York Giants @ Carolina Panthers - Final score 31-33
  • Panthers kicker Graham Gano hit a career-long 63 yard field goal, tying the NFL record for the longest made in a wild victory shootout against the Giants.
• Miami Dolphins @ Cincinnati Bengals - Final score 17-27 Game of the Week
  • The Bengals tally their entire score unanswered to overcome a 17-point deficit to defeat the Dolphins.
• Oakland Raiders @ Los Angeles Chargers - Final score 10-26
  • Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers tossed 339 yard and 2 touchdowns to lift the Chargers over the rival Raiders.
• Arizona Cardinals @ San Francisco 49ers - Final score 28-18
  • Injuries and turnovers proved disastrous to the struggling 49ers and Cardinals quarterback rookie Josh Rosen led his team to the franchise's first victory of the season.
• Minnesota Vikings @ Philadelphia Eagles - Final score 23-21
  • The new quarterback for the Vikings, Kirk Cousins threw for 301 yards and a touchdown to avenge their loss of the NFC championship last postseason.
• Los Angeles Rams @ Seattle Seahawks - Final score 33-31
  • Rams running back and MVP contender Todd Gurley bulldozed the Seahawks defense for 77 yards and 3 touchdowns to remain one of the two undefeated teams.
• Dallas Cowboys @ Houston Texans - Final score 16-19 OT Sunday Night Football
  
  • Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins evaded multiple defenders to set up a game-winner field goal to win the "Texas Bowl" over the state-rival Cowboys.
• Washington Redskins @ New Orleans Saints - Final score 19-43 Monday Night Football
  • Saints quarterback Drew Brees broke Peyton Manning's career passing yard record in a 62 yard touchdown pass to rookie Tre'Quan Smith in a lopsided victory over the Redskins in the Monday Night showdown.

 

It's that time again for the new edition of Game of the Week!

Carolina Panthers vs Washington Redskins
Fedex Field, Landover, Maryland October 14 (1:00PM EST)

We head over to the east to Landover for our newest highlighted matchup. The Panthers are marching into town with the intent to start gaining ground in the race for the NFC South while the Redskins currently lead their division and a win here could extend and solidify their grip on the division.
Can the Panthers pull off a win against the home crowd, or will the Redskins run away with a win? Read the Keys to Victory and Final Score to find out.

The Keys to Victory and Final Score

The Panthers will come out swinging early. Quarterback Cam Newton is still without top tight end target Greg Olsen, but that doesn't mean he won't be pass happy. Others such as wide receiver Devin Funchess and DJ Moore could see the ball airing out their way. Running back Christian McCaffrey has a tough challenge in keeping a running game going. The Redskins defense is no slouch despite being humbled by the Saints last week, but Newton has buried some tough defenses before and his tempo has proven difficult to keep up with.

The Redskins have many of their receiving corps questionable, but quarterback Alex Smith will likely be his low-risk playstyle in constantly driving the ball forward. Hopefully one of his favored targets in wideouts Josh Doctson or Paul Richardson will be able to suit up in time for the game. There is also a chance that running back Adrian Peterson is questionable. Washington's offense is going to be left behind if many of their starting scorers and receivers aren't able to play.

Look for this to be a close game if the offenses click.
Final Score: Panthers 28 - Redskins 30​

 

So I've been absent for a little while. Life gets busy y'know?

Anyway, this is a Game of the Week I've been wanting to do for a long time.

Green Bay Packers vs New England Patriots
Sunday November 4, 2018 (8:25 pm) EST​

We head off to Gillette Stadium in Foxboro on Sunday night where we will witness a duel between two of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play in the League. Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers have come off a disappointing loss to the Rams and seek to make a statement that the team is not out of the fight. Opposing them is Tom Brady and the Patriots, continuing to seek their dominance at home field and reclaim the AFC East title. Can the Packers keep pace with New England or fall short of their hopes? The Keys to Victory and Final Score will tell us more.

The Keys to Victory and Final Score

Although the Patriots are a tough team overall, they're not invincible. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers will still need to be on the top of his game in order to come out winning. He's been brilliant thus far, especially with top targets wide receiver DaVante Adams and tight end Jimmy Graham. New England's pass defense has the tough task of keeping those targets covered. Rodgers can exploit that weakness by remaining on the field to tire out the Patriots secondary.

The Patriots have a slightly easier time since they will have both the home crowd and a weaker Packers defense. Look to see quarterback Tom Brady air it out to wide receivers Julian Edelman, Chris Hogan and tight end Rob Gronkowski. Running back James White is also a strong pass catcher for surprise packages.

Overall, expect this to become a high scoring shootout game and likely one for the books, but in the end it will be New England's night.

Final Score: Packers 31 - Patriots 35​

 

That Monday Night Football game looked right outta a Big 10 or Madden Tournament

 

Hey Valorians! Unfortunately @Sugar and I had other obligations and couldn't tend to the rest of the 2018 NFL season for Neutral Zone Distraction...

We'll do our best to keep everything up to date starting here with the beginning of the new league year! This begins the free agency period where teams can contact and negotiate with one another for trades and host free agent players to sign with their clubs. The NFL draft is a little longer than a month away, which will be the next period where teams can address their issues before beginning training camp to start the season in the late summer.

Here are the highlights and major signings for every team. It's been a wild offseason!

Arizona Cardinals
The Arizona Cardinals have been one of the more aggressive spenders in free agency. Having the worst overall record in the previous season, they'll need an overhaul and fresh start beginning with new head coach Kliff Kingsbury.

• The Cardinals have signed longtime Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs to a one-year deal. Suggs' college is Arizona State. He joins veteran pass rusher Chandler Jones with the potential to mentor the first overall pick, provided it is an edge rusher.
• Guard JR Sweezy joins Arizona for two years. The veteran offensive lineman has spent previous seasons with the Seattle Seahawks and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
• Quarterback Brett Hundley joins his former backup from UCLA on a one year deal.
• Eagles linebacker breakout star Jordan Hicks has joined the Cardinals, providing leadership and stability to build around a 4-3-4 defensive scheme which excelled and helped win the Super Bowl two seasons back. Hicks has the chance to flourish if he can remain on the field without major injury.
• Tight end Charles Clay has signed on with the Cardinals. Clay is among the more versatile tight ends, strong in blocking, pass catching and route running.

Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons have fewer needs than others, instead just needing a good season to make another run to the Super Bowl. Their offensive line has taken some hits of departures, but the front office has been quick to ensure this does not become a glaring weakness.

• Former Jets guard James Carpenter has joined the Falcons on a four year contract. He provides quarterback Matt Ryan with both pass protection and opening gaps for the slippery Devonta Freeman. Although an older free agent, Carpenter hasn't lost his step and continues to play at a high level.
  
• Jamon Brown, a guard who spent the last season on the Giants roster has also signed on with a three year contract.
• The Falcons have franchise tagged defensive lineman Grady Jarrett in the hopes of locking him in long term. Jarrett is only 25 and has the skillset to improve.

Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens finished last season as the number one ranked defense. Now it was picked apart by free agency in a matter of hours. Linebacker CJ Mosley, Terrell Suggs, Za'Darious Smith and safety Eric Weddle have all left for greener pastures. The Ravens have already begun to rebuild, signing seasoned players and look to begin rebuilding their defense with inexpensive options.

• The Ravens made their first splash in free agency by signing ex-Legion of Boom Seahawks safety Earl Thomas. Thomas received the richest contract in Ravens history for a non-QB for a 4 year $55 million dollar deal. As a defensive leader, ball hawk, he's the perfect fit to lead a rebuilding effort to make Baltimore's defense among the most feared in the league.
• Ravens were also in the race for top free agent Le'Veon Bell, however they switched priorities after Bell became unavailable, grabbing Thomas in the mega contract and instead signed ex-Saints running back Mark Ingram.

Buffalo Bills
The Bills have been quite active in free agency. They haven't signed many big names, instead going after crucial pieces to keep them in the tight race for the AFC East division.

• The Bills' wide receiver corps has been upgraded with the addition of ex-Ravens wideout John Brown and ex-Cowboy Cole Beasley. Brown was a target for Buffalo last offseason, but went to the Ravens instead, now coming on a year later. Brown is a speedy receiver which can help quarterback Josh Allen throw deeper passes. Beasley remains a solid slot option.
• Veteran running back Frank Gore has signed on with the Bills. At 35, Gore is currently the oldest running back still active in the league.
  
• Redskins tacke Ty Nsekhe has signed on with Buffalo for two years.
• Former Chiefs center Mitch Morse joins the Bills on a four year deal.
• Texans cornerback Kevin Johnson has signed on.
• Tyler Kroft the ex-Bengals tight end fills a gap left by Charles Clay's departure to Arizona.

Carolina Panthers
The Panthers' offensive line woes continue, however now the defense is beginning to show cracks.

• After a year plagued by injuries; tackle Daryl Williams has re-signed on for a one year deal for a "prove it" season.
• The signing of ex-Broncos center Matt Paradis has left Ryan Kalil's future uncertain.
• Quarterback Cam Newton's backup Taylor Heinicke is returning for another year.

Chicago Bears
The Bears were upset at the wildcard matchup against the Eagles last postseason. They have most of the tools to make a deep run into the playoffs and they've already made acquisitions to bolster their roster.

• Playmaker Cordarrelle Patterson has signed on for two years. Patterson is an electric playmaker seen in his tenure last season with the Patriots and among the best return specialists available in the league.
• Running back Mike Davis has joined on the Bears in a crowded backfield. It's likely Chicago will keep running back Tarik Cohen, but it could spell the end of Jordan Howard's tenure in the Windy City.
• The Bears agreed to terms with cornerback Buster Skrine. An older starter, but still solid as a slot cornerback to keep opposite Kyle Fuller.
• Miami Dolphins guard Ted Larsen has signed on with the Bears to provide depth to Cody Whitehair and Kyle Long.

Cincinnati Bengals
One of the quieter players in free agency. Cincinnati has multiple issues, however they are more set on keeping their own players rather than bring in outsiders.

• Tackle Bobby Hart has re-signed.
• Tight end CJ Uzuomah has also been brought back to provide depth amongst Tyler Eifert's uncertain future.
• The Bengals' linebacking group has struggled last season and they have brought in Preston Brown to supplement it.

Cleveland Browns
The Browns have been arguably the most active team in free agency, scoring several big names in both trades and signings on both sides of the ball. Despite their aggressiveness, does this make them contenders or pretenders for a playoff slot?

• The biggest blockbuster trade was with Giants superstar wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. in a trade that sent multiple picks to New York. Beckham joins college teammate and longtime friend Jarvis Landry.
• Cleveland also traded with the Giants for defensive end Olivier Vernon.
• The Browns are expected to sign Vikings defensive end Sheldon Richardson to a three year deal. Richardson will move to nose tackle flanked by Vernon and first overall Myles Garrett.
• Chiefs tight end Demetrius Harris signs on to Cleveland, complimenting David Njoku.
• Buccaneers linebacker Adarius Taylor has joined the Browns, replacing the departing Jamie Collins.

Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys have been one of the quieter teams in free agency, however they have re-signed some of their players while letting others walk for better deals. However as usual, Cowboys fans were expectant of a bigger splash in acquiring some superstar names.

• Jamize Olawale, a fullback acquired in a trade from the Raiders has re-signed to a three year extension. A solid contributor in special teams as well as a blocking agent for running back Ezekiel Elliott.
• Offensive tackle Cameron Fleming spent the previous season on the Cowboys after coming from the Patriots. Fleming has agreed to a two year extension.

Denver Broncos
After finishing at the bottom of the AFC West for the second consecutive year, the Broncos have already begun setting after specific targets to address the many needs of their team.

• Dolphins tackle JaWuan James has agreed to terms with the Broncos. Despite his injury history; James will fill in right away as the right tackle.
• Texans cornerback Kareem Jackson signs on for a three year deal and provides solid coverage opposite Chris Harris Jr.
• Before trading quarterback Case Keenum to the Redskins, the Broncos had reached a deal in trade with the Ravens for quarterback Joe Flacco.

Detroit Lions
The Lions have already made multiple moves in free agency to grab some of the high profile targets. They will look to improve off their woeful 4th place in the contested NFC North.

• Steelers tight end Jesse James has signed onto the Lions. James is valuable as a strong blocker to help the run and only 25 years of age.
• Cornerback Justin Coleman from the Seahawks will come to fill a nickel role,similar to the one given in Seattle.
• Defensive end Trey Flowers from the Patriots will sign with the Lions, reuniting him with head coach Matt Patricia. Flowers' versatility in multiple roles proved instrumental in helping the Patriots win the Super Bowl.

Green Bay Packers
Coming off 3rd place in the NFC North already has the Packers making moves on defense.

• Ex-Broncos tackle Billy Turner signs on, providing depth with a chance to become a starter.
• Ravens linebacker and sack machine ZaDarius Smith has also joined on for a four year contract.
• Bears safety Adrian Amos signs a four year deal.
• Tight end Mercedes Lewis will remain with the team.
  
• Redskins linebacker Preston Smith joins the Packers defense, joining ZaDarius Smith in potentially creating a stout linebacking front to score many sacks.

Houston Texans
The Texans surprisingly stole the AFC South crown and now see longtime cornerbacks Kevin Johnson and Kareem Jackson as well as safety Tyrann Mathieu depart for other teams. They've brought in some others to fill in those roles.

• Broncos cornerback Bradley Roby is set to sign on a one year deal. Roby will start opposite Jonathan Joseph with Aaron Colvin in the nickel.
• Jaguars safety Tashaun Gipson has joined the Texans, adding a much needed starter to counter Houston's weakness of defending long passes.

Indianapolis Colts
With quarterback Andrew Luck back in the saddle, general manager Chris Ballard should keep him supplied with weapons and start building up its weaker defense.

• Starting cornerback Pierre Desir has been given a healthy three year extension to have their main two and nickel cornerbacks for another season.
• Andrew Luck now has a now toy in former Panthers receiver Devin Funchess. Funchess will compliment TY Hilton and Eric Ebron as a larger big-bodied target.

Jacksonville Jaguars
The sun has set on the Blake Bortles era in Jacksonville as the third overall pick was released at the beginning of the new league year. The Jaguars will seek to rebuild.

• It didn't take long for the Jaguars to find themselves a new quarterback. Nick Foles from the Philadelphia Eagles and Super Bowl MVP has signed on to a four year deal, providing stability and possibly a long term solution.
• Guard AJ Cann has agreed to an extension.

Kansas City Chiefs
After an upset loss in the AFC Championship game, the Chiefs look to free agency and have already thrown their hat in the ring to lure over some players. General manager Brett Veach has done so, continuing to build around MVP quarterback Patrick Mahomes.However many longtime players such as Justin Houston and Eric Berry have also left by either being released, traded or signed elsewhere.

• Running back Carlos Hyde has signed on to a one year deal from the Jaguars. Hyde has the possibility to become the starter, competing with Damien Williams.
• The Honey Badger is now in a Chiefs uniform. Safety Tyrann Mathieu of the Texans has joined on a three year deal to provide a solid anchor to a weaker section of the Chiefs struggling defense.
• Defensive lineman Alex Okafor has boosted the defense, signing a multi-year deal.
  
• Cowboys linebacker Damien Wilson has been added to the linebacking group as the new defensive coordinator switches the defensive scheme. Wilson is more suited to the new formation packages than either Justin Houston or Dee Ford, which the Chiefs have moved on from.

Miami Dolphins
The question remains whether the Dolphins organization will coninue to invest their time and salary into quarterback Ryan Tannehill and wideout Devante Parker. Injuries have riddled both players who have shown to flourish when healthy.

• The Dolphins appear to not be losing any faith in Parker, who was brought back for a two year extension. Parker is only 26 with still much time to develop into his prime. Miami still runs the risk playing a gambit on a player who may not turn into their expectations.
• A one year deal brings cornerback Eric Rowe to South Beach. Rowe's arrival means safety stud Minkah Fitzpatrick can move back into his role alongside Reshad Jones and allow him to cover the other side of Xavien Howard.
• Head coach Brian Flores continues to bring players back from his previous spot in New England. Tight end Dwayne Allen has been signed for a two year. He is among the best in blocking and is a leader in the locker room.

Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings are still riding behind starting quarterback Kirk Cousins, however the signing proved that it would be more than just him to replicate the miracle run to the NFC Championship game last season. Some of the higher priced older players may become cap casualties.

• Linebacker Anthony Barr was intent to sign with the Jets during this offseason, however he had changed his mind at the last moment, announcing his plan to sign with the Vikings once more. His deal is for 5 years and $65 million dollars.
• Restricted free agent safety Anthony Harris is also returning to Minnesota for another year.
• Defensive tackle Shamar Stephen will join the Vikings for a year. The former Seattle Seahawk is slated to start beside elite nose tackle Linval Joseph.

 

The Browns have been one of Free Agency's more aggressive players. They've got a lot of salary cap and money to spend which allows them to make a lot of these high profile moves such as Odell Beckham Jr.

The general manager John Dorsey has been really good at making these kind of bolder moves and in just one season, he's already got them to win three times as many games as they did in the previous two. It's going to be a longer process as well.
Dorsey was previously the manager for the Chiefs, being brought in right after they had an abysmal 2-14 record back in 2012. The next season, they went 11-5 and got themselves into the playoffs. Since then; the Chiefs haven't had a losing season and have been to the playoffs in all but one.

He certainly turned around the Chiefs and he's already started his magic for the Browns. As good as he is, much of the credit I think has to go to his predecessors. Scott Pioli and Sashi Brown pretty much set him up for that kind of success as soon as he was brought on board.

The state of the AFC North is really interesting. The Browns seem to be getting only better while the Steelers are still hungover from the loss of Antonio and Le'Veon. The Ravens' top defense lost like 5 of its starting players and it probably won't be the same defense we'll see next year. The Bengals? I have no idea what they're doing. Obviously they don't see even making the playoffs as a big priority.

I'll get to them. Was kind of tired after posting the first group. Second group will be up either today or tomorrow.

 

Alright. Time to finish the rest of the league. I accidentally missed both Los Angeles' teams in between Kansas City and Miami. So they will be covered here.

Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers were an unexpected face in the AFC playoffs, even upsetting the higher seeded Ravens. However they will be in a hot race against the Chiefs to claim the division crown next season. They like where they are at, as general manager Tom Telesco has been granted an multi-year extension to remain with the team. Could this be the year they take a look at the one who will replace longtime quarterback Philip Rivers?

• Browns quarterback Tyrod Taylor is headed to LA for a two year deal.
• Longtime Panthers linebacker Thomas Davis has agreed to terms with the Chargers. At 36 years old, Davis is still quite athletic and remains Carolina's all time leading tackler.
• Defensive tackle Brandon Mebane stays with the Chargers on a two year extension.
• Linebacker Denzel Perryman and safety Adrian Phillips have also been re-signed.

Los Angeles Rams
It's going to be quite a long offseason for the Rams, but they still need to make moves to get out of the Super Bowl hangover.

• Linebacker Dante Fowler is going to stay with the team on a one year deal. Traded to the Rams from the Jaguars mid-season, Fowler contributed to the efforts leading to their Super Bowl run and is expected to improve upon next season.
• Safety Eric Weddle has joined for a two year deal. Weddle is expected to fill in the slot left by LaMarcus Joyner who has departed to the Oakland Raiders.

New England Patriots
The Patriots still have some holes even though winning the Super Bowl last season. Lots of big names on their defense are departing for richer contracts. Head coach Bill Belichick has a knack though for finding talent at cheap buys in his amorphous scheme.

• The McCourty twins will remain in the Patriots' roster. Cornerback Jason McCourty has been brought back on a 2 year contract.
• Wide receiver Phillip Dorsett has been brought back for another year.
• The Patriots are close to finalizing a deal with starting linebacker John Simon.
• Running back Brandon Bolden is staying for two more years. Although more of a special teams player, Bolden does add depth to an already full backfield.
• Former Jets defensive tackle Mike Pennel will fill the void left by Malcom Brown. He has signed a 2 year deal.
• Another ex-Jets player Terrence Brooks has been signed. Brooks is a veteran and strong player on special teams.
• Maurice Harris, a wide receiver undrafted previously with the Redskins has agreed to terms with New England. In addition, wideout Bruce Ellington has joined on a one year contract.
• Matt LaCosse has joined the organization and will contribute as a solid #2 tight end behind Rob Gronkowski.

New Orleans Saints
Will the Saints be able to keep their high hopes up for another Super Bowl run before quarterback Drew Brees has to inevitably retire? Only time will tell.

• Keeping a backup quarterback was among New Orleans' top priorities. Teddy Bridgewater has agreed for another year. Regardless, the Saints will need to make some difficult decisions this time next year for their signal callers.
• The Saints agreed on a four year deal with running back Latavius Murray. Murray spent the last two seasons with the Vikings and will likely serve as a third-down back to Alvin Kamara.
• Patriots defensive tackle Malcom Brown has joined for a three year contract.
• Special teams veteran Craig Robertson has been re-signed.
• Kicker Wil Lutz will remain on the Saints roster with a five year deal.
• Defensive lineman Mario Edwards Jr. is joining after spending his four seasons with both the Raiders and Giants, should be set an immediate starter alongside Cameron Jordan and Marcus Davenport.

New York Giants
The Giants appear to be losing the offseason after letting safety Landon Collins, defensive lineman Olivier Vernon and wide receiver Odell Beckham depart. Many things do seem questionable.

• Wide receiver Golden Tate has agreed to terms on a four year $37.5 million dollar deal. He has spent the last season on both the Lions and Eagles' roster with big shoes to fill.
• The Giants will sign safety Antoine Bethea for two years. Bethea is familiar with the defensive scheme from his stint with the Cardinals, but the organization did not hesitate to go after other big names to replace Landon Collins.
• Cardinals linebacker Markus Golden will sign on for a year. With Vernon's departure, Golden becomes the best pass rusher on the Giants' roster, something they need desperately.

New York Jets
The Jets are another active team in free agency, intending to build around quarterback Sam Darnold.

• The Jets have won the Le'Veon Bell sweepstakes. The top rated free agent will sign on for a $52 million contract for four years.
• Former Ravens linebacker CJ Mosley is signing on for five years and $85 million. Mosley has developed into one of the top inside linebackers in the league.
• Kicker Chandler Catanzaro has signed on for another year.
• Defensive tackle Steve McLendon is back for another year.
• Jamison Crowder has signed a three year deal. The ex-Redskins product is set to replace Jermaine Kearse who is set to be a free agent.
• Henry Anderson, a defensive lineman who was brought on last season has agreed to terms on a three year deal.
• The Jets signed wide receiver Josh Bellamy, who spent his first five seasons with the Chicago Bears.
• Linebacker Brian Poole, the ex-Falcons player is being brought on for a year.

Oakland Raiders
The Raiders look to the offseason with a large amount of cap space. Losing lineman Khalil Mack and Cooper still hurts, though they've still had a productive time in acquiring some big names in preparation for their inevitable move to Las Vegas.

• The Antonio Brown era in Pittsburgh is over, as he was traded to the Raiders and signed to a mega deal.
• Wide receiver Tyrell Williams is also being brought on. The former Charger should give plenty of targets for quarterback Derek Carr along with Brown.
• Offensive tackle Trent Brown will sign on for a four year $66 million deal. This makes the former 49er and Patriot the highest paid tackle in the NFL.
• Safety Lamarcus Joyner is signing for a four year contract.
• Defensive tackle Jonathan Hankins has signed on for two more years.

Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers seem to have lost the offseason, seeing superstar playmakers Le'Veon Bell and Antonio Brown leave their organization. And they have much work to do.

• Wide receiver Donte Moncrief has agreed to terms. He won't be able to completely fill Brown's shoes, but the former Jaguar provides more options alongside fellow wideout Juju Smith Schuster.
• Ex-Chiefs cornerback Steven Nelson is expected to start opposite Joe Haden.
• Linebacker Anthony Chickhillo has been given a two year extension.

Philadelphia Eagles
Philadelphia's offseason is shaping to be quite the productive one.

• The Jaguars defensive tackle Malik Jackson is signing on for three years. Jackson will join the Eagles' stout defensive line.
• Former Pittsburgh Steeler LJ Fort is signing on for four years.
• Cornerback Ronald Darby has been extended for another year.

San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers are yet another active player in the offseason. They hold the second overall pick and are expected to get quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo back in time for the opener.

• Linebacker Kwon Alexander is inked a four year $54 million deal. The former Buccaneer will likely fill in the spot Reuben Foster did prior to his release.
• The 49ers have traded with the Kansas City Chiefs for linebacker Dee Ford. Ford is set to move to edge rusher in his recent breakout seasons.
  
• Running back Tevin Coleman has joined on a two year contract.
• Safety Jimmie Ward has agreed to stay for another year.
• Wide receiver Jordan Matthews is signing on for a year contract from the Eagles. Matthews is a solid veteran option who can play both inside and within the slot.
• Chargers cornerback Jason Verrett is signing for a year. Although coming off consistent injuries; Verrett is a playmaker when healthy.

Seattle Seahawks
The Seahawks have been one of the quieter teams in free agency. But that doesn't mean they're standing by to watch everyone get scooped up.

• Longtime linebacker KJ Wright is signing for an additional two years.
• Former Cardinals guard Mike Iupati will join on a one year contract.
• Tackle DJ Fluker will sign back on for two more years.
• Linebacker Mychal Kendricks will return for another year.
• Former Jets kicker Jason Myers is joining the Seahawks to a four year deal.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers
A look at the Buccaneers signings this offseason.

• Tackle Donovan Smith will re-sign with the team for three years.
• Broncos linebacker Shaquil Barrett will sign on for a year. The Buccaneers were pursuing Markus Golden, but lost him to the Giants. Barrett will have a chance to become a starter after buried underneath Von Miller and Bradley Chubb.
• Ex-Cardinals linebacker Deone Bucannon provides a hybrid safety-linebacker player and will join for a year.
• Wide receiver Breshad Perriman has signed on for a year from the Cleveland Browns.
• 49ers punter Bradley Pinion will sign on for four years.
• Running back Peyton Barber has been given an extension.

Tennessee Titans
A look at the Titans signings this offseason.

• Quarterback Ryan Tannehill of the Dolphins has been traded to the Titans. Tannehill is likely becoming the backup for the starting job against Marcus Mariota.
• Offensive lineman Roger Saffold will sign a four year deal from the Rams. Saffold is an immediate upgrade to the battered offensive line.
• Buccaneers wide receiver Adam Humphries is signing on for four years.
• Safety Kenny Vaccaro is signing on for an extension of four more years.
• The Titans intend to sign former Miami Dolphin Cameron Wake to a three year contract. Wake will add leadership and veterancy to a young pass rushing corps.

Washington Redskins
The Redskins' future remains uncertain. It's uncertain whether quarterback Alex Smith will ever play football again or how they are going to move on once his tenure is over.

• Giants safety Landon Collins will join on a six year $84 million dollar deal. Collins is a much needed help at the backfield which has been a big thorn for Washington recently.
• Running back Adrian Peterson will remain on the team for two more years.
• Ex-Raider Domonique Rodgers-Cromartie is signing one year contract.

 

Okay fellas, the 2019 NFL Draft is just around the corner in a few days. Thought I'd give my usual prediction of the entire first round on which team takes which player.

Position Index:

• QB - Quarterback
• RB - Running Back
• WR - Wide Receiver
• TE - Tight End
• OT - Offensive Tackle
• G - Guard/Interior Tackle
• C - Center
• DE - Defensive End
• DT - Defensive Tackle
• LB - Linebacker
• CB - Cornerback
• SS - Strong Safety
• FS - Free Safety
• P - Punter
• K - Placekicker

1. Arizona Cardinals - Kyler Murray QB Oklahoma
2. San Francisco 49ers - Nick Bosa DE Ohio State
3. New York Jets - Quinnen Williams DL Alabama
4. Oakland Raiders - Josh Allen DE Kentucky
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Ed Oliver DT Houston
6. New York Giants - Daniel Jones QB Duke
7. Jacksonville Jaguars - Jawaan Taylor OT Florida
8. Detroit Lions - Jonah Williams G Alabama
9. Buffalo Bills - TJ Hockenson TE Iowa
10. Denver Broncos - Devin White LB LSU
11. Cincinnati Bengals - Dwayne Haskins QB Ohio State
12. Green Bay Packers - Devin Bush LB Michigan
13. Miami Dolphins - Brian Burns DE Florida State
14. Atlanta Falcons - Greedy Williams CB LSU
15. Washington Redskins - Rashaan Gary DE Michigan
16. Carolina Panthers - Andre Dillard OT Washington State
17. New York Giants (traded from Cleveland Browns) - Montez Sweat DE Mississippi State
    
18. Minnesota Vikings - Garrett Bradbury C NC State
19. Tennessee Titans - Jeffery Simmons DT Mississippi State
20. Pittsburgh Steelers - Lonnie Johnson CB Kentucky
21. Seattle Seahawks - Christian Wilkins DT Clemson
22. Baltimore Ravens - Clellin Ferrell DE Clemson
23. Houston Texans - Cody Ford OT Oklahoma
24. Oakland Raiders (traded from Chicago Bears) Dexter Lawrence DT Clemson
    
25. Philadelphia Eagles Marquise Brown WR Oklahoma
26. Indianapolis Colts Johnathan Abram FS Mississippi State
27. Oakland Raiders (traded from Dallas Cowboys) Chris Lindstrom G Boston College
    
28. Los Angeles Chargers Rock Ya-Sin CB Temple
29. Kansas City Chiefs Byron Murphy CB Washington
30. Green Bay Packers (traded from New Orleans Saints) Drew Lock QB Missouri
    
31. Los Angeles Rams Elgton Jenkins G Mississippi State
32. New England Patriots - Noah Fant TE Iowa

 

Hey everyone, today's the 2019 Hall of Fame game that marks the end of the long offseason and the reminder that football season is a little more than a month away! We've got the Denver Broncos squaring off against the Atlanta Falcons while the Pro Football Hall of Fame inductees will formally get their golden jackets!

All training camps are underway and there are obviously a lot of battles between players competing to make the final cuts onto the 53 man rosters as preseason whittles on.

With that underway though, I believe this is around the beginning where I post my predictions for the postseason playoff picture judging by this week. Let's see how accurate I can go!

AFC Playoffs

• AFC East: New England Patriots
• AFC North: Baltimore Ravens
• AFC South: Houston Texans
• AFC West: Kansas City Chiefs
• Wildcards: Indianapolis Colts & Cleveland Browns

Yes. I am predicting the Browns will make the playoffs. They play in one of the most difficult divisions of football, so each inter-divisional matchup between its rivals is a must-win. The Ravens are the other contender I have with the Steelers potentially putting a statement for the wildcard position as well. The Patriots are pretty much guaranteed a lock to win the East again while the South and West will be more competitive. Texans will face strong competition with the Colts this season while the Chargers are expected to challenge the Chiefs, who have held the crown of the West for the fourth season in a row. Whomever comes second there will ultimately pay the price of missing the playoffs.

NFC Playoffs

• NFC East: Philadelphia Eagles
• NFC North: Green Bay Packers
• NFC South: New Orleans Saints
• NFC West: Los Angeles Rams
• Wildcards: Dallas Cowboys & Chicago Bears

The NFC playoffs seem much more thought out. The Packers suffered some setbacks last season, but look to be right back on track to reclaim the North title. Nobody has yet to make a statement challenging New Orleans' dominance in the South and Los Angeles seems to have a firm grip on the West. The Eagles are gearing up however for a push to take the East and possibly another Super Bowl run with their high octane offense.

 

Chiefs didn't get screwed by the refs on the offsides call. Ford was lined up just a TAD in front of everyone else. The most infuriating part (as a Chiefs fan) is that he could've looked at the line judge and they'd motion for him to scoot back and nothing would go wrong. But I do think that extra foot is what made the play unfold how it did. Cost us a Super Bowl because if those Rams showed up, we would've steamrolled them.

And the Saints are basically in a win-now mode. They have to be. The huge fat paycheck Michael Thomas just cashed in with however many years Drew Brees plans to play both played a few factors and time isn't on their side. I give it two maybe three years maximum before we start to see a regime change with Brees and Payton as HC.

 

We're officially T-minus 24 hours out from the first game of the 2019 NFL season! I hope everyone is hyped as I am! With that in mind, going off my previous playoff predictions, I'm going to make my own season standings. I see that @Sugar and @Wizard have made theirs, so feel free to add your own input. This is a blog where anyone can contribute! Now to wonder how my four fantasy leagues will fare.

AFC East

1. New England Patriots: 12-4
2. New York Jets: 9-7
3. Buffalo Bills: 8-8
4. Miami Dolphins: 3-13

This one is hardly much of a contest. As long as Patriots superstar quarterback Tom Brady remains on their roster, they continue another dominant performance of the AFC East. However with the departure of tight end Rob Gronkowski to retirement, things may be much more competitive from the other AFC divisions come playoffs. The Jets will claim second with the Dolphins struggling throughout the season.

AFC North

1. Baltimore Ravens: 10-6
2. Cleveland Browns: 9-7
3. Pittsburgh Steelers: 9-7
4. Cincinnati Bengals: 5-11

This may be one of the more competitive divisions in the AFC. The Ravens seem to be a favorite to win the North, however I think the Browns may give a strong challenge thanks to the huge acquisitions they made in free agency. They may make the playoffs, but not go far...however that is marginally significant progress from a team that was winless two seasons ago. Watch out for the Steelers to make a push themselves.

AFC South

1. Houston Texans: 9-7
2. Tennessee Titans: 8-8
3. Indianapolis Colts: 5-11
4. Jacksonville Jaguars: 5-11

If you asked me if the Colts were planning to make another playoff push, I might have agreed. Now with their quarterback Andrew Luck hanging up the cleats, this leaves the South wide open for grabs and I think that Houston has the best arsenal to claim the title this season. The rest of the division has plenty of weaknesses, so I imagine the handful of wins will come from interdivisional rivals.

AFC West

1. Kansas City Chiefs: 11-5
2. Los Angeles Chargers: 9-7
3. Oakland Raiders: 7-9
4. Denver Broncos: 4-12

The Kansas City Chiefs are my lock to win the west. NFL MVP quarterback Patrick Mahomes looks poised to have another big year and they upgraded their woeful defense that let them down last postseason. I do NOT think that Mahomes is going to repeat his 5k yards passing with 50 touchdowns. Defenses will be ready for him, so expect a diverse mix of running and passing. The Chargers could challenge the Chiefs, but with running back Melvin Gordon showing no signs of ending his holdout for a new contract anytime soon, they'd need everything to topple their midwestern rival.

NFC East

1. Dallas Cowboys: 10-6
2. Philadelphia Eagles: 9-7
3. New York Giants: 5-11
4. Washington Redskins: 4-12

This is one of the more lopsided divisions in my opinion. You're either fighting for a playoff spot, or bound for an early draft pick next May. I have the Eagles and Cowboys clawing it out with their high powered offenses while the Giants and Redskins continue their rebuilding mode. Cowboys edge their green rivals out thanks to running back Zeke Elliott signing his lucrative contract. I had Philly winning the division, but I'm convinced Dallas' #21 is going to be fed the ball enough to carry them to the NFC East crown.

NFC North

1. Green Bay Packers: 10-6
   
2. Chicago Bears: 9-7
   
3. Minnesota Vikings: 7-9
   
4. Detroit Lions: 4-12

I've always loved the historic and intense rivalry between the Packers & Bears, but it seemed for a long time that the Packers have always had the upper hand. With the Bears having a stout defense and a capable offense, I think the two matchups including the one tomorrow night will be a treat to watch. Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers is poised to make big plays this season and his veteran experience in the postseason will outshine Bears quarterback Mitch Trubisky...who's not far behind.

NFC South

1. New Orleans Saints: 13-3
   
2. Atlanta Falcons: 9-7
   
3. Carolina Panthers: 6-10
   
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 3-13

I think the Saints are the favorites to win the Super Bowl this year. Quarterback Drew Brees has so many weapons in guys like tight end Jared Cook, wide receiver Michael Thomas and running back Alvin Kamara. There's no discussion here. This division belongs to New Orleans. The real question is if they can keep things together and not allow simple mistakes to cost them another run to the Super Bowl.

NFC West

1. Los Angeles Rams: 10-6
   
2. Seattle Seahawks: 8-8
   
3. San Francisco 49ers: 7-9
   
4. Arizona Cardinals: 5-11

I don't believe the Rams will be that same hyped team they were when they made that Super Bowl run. The offense will be great and the defense is adequate, however many of its rivals have gotten better as has the toughness of the other opponents outside their division. The Cardinals are in a rebuilding mode and it's uncertain how the 49ers and Seahawks will fare, but I figure they'll be neck and neck for second.