Fantasy Injury Updates: News on Davante Adams, Zay Jones, and Jordan Addison Impacting WR Rankings

Jason Katz
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Fantasy Injury Updates: News on Davante Adams, Zay Jones, and Jordan Addison Impacting WR Rankings

It’s always a challenge to navigate through injuries in fantasy football. The WR position has several players dealing with issues. The time to set Week 6 lineups is near. What is the latest injury information on Davante Adams, Zay Jones, and Jordan Addison?

Looking to make a trade in your fantasy league? Having trouble deciding who to start and who to sit? Check out PFN’s Free Fantasy Football Trade Analyzer and Start/Sit Optimizer to help you make the right decision!

Latest News and Injury Updates Impacting Fantasy

Analysis last updated 4:45 PM ET on Thursday, October 12

Davante Adams, Las Vegas Raiders

In Week 4, Adams went down hard on his right shoulder.

He remained on the ground for quite some time before exiting the field. It looked like he might have broken his collarbone, which would’ve sidelined him for up to two months. Fortunately, Adams escaped with a sprain.

Ahead of last week’s game, Adams did not practice on Thursday or Friday before getting in a limited session on Saturday. No one really thought he would be willing to miss the game against his former team, and he did not.

While Adams did suit up, he certainly wasn’t 100 percent. He played 94% of the snaps but drew just four targets, catching all of them for 45 yards.

The good news is Adams escaped without any further damage to his shoulder. He did not practice on Wednesday, but that is likely the team being cautious with the veteran. At this point in his career, Adams doesn’t need practice.

MORE: Fantasy News Tracker

Look for Adams to return to a limited session on either Thursday or Friday, draw a questionable tag, and ultimately play against the Patriots on Sunday.

Last week was the Adams revenge game. This week is the Jakobi Meyers revenge game. If Adams is still hobbled, we could see another heavy dose of Meyers as he looks to show up his former team. Either way, if Adams is active, fantasy managers have to start him.

Zay Jones, Jacksonville Jaguars

Jones is way better at football than I ever gave him credit for. The Jaguars are undoubtedly a better offense when he’s on the field.

After posting a nice 5-55-1 line in Week 1, Jones battled a knee injury in Week 2 and didn’t catch a pass. The injury cost him Weeks 3 and 4. He was able to return in Week 5 and once again displayed why he’s such a key part of this offense.

Unfortunately, shortly after this touchdown grab, Jones aggravated his knee injury. He left the game and did not return.

Jones did not participate in the Jaguars’ first practice ahead of Week 6. Given how much the injury has challenged him, I would expect Jones not to play this week.

However, it’s not all bad news. Doug Pederson described Jones as “day-to-day.” His MRI reportedly came back clean.

Jones is likely not looking at an overly lengthy absence, but we still have very little information on what exactly the injury is. As a result, fantasy managers will just have to play this week-to-week.

If Jones does indeed miss Week 6, it’s a boost to both Calvin Ridley and Christian Kirk’s outlooks. As for who can replace him on your fantasy roster, the answer is not anyone on the Jaguars.

Jordan Addison, Minnesota Vikings

Jordan Addison entered this season as my top-ranked rookie for redraft purposes. So far, the kid has answered every question asked of him.

Addison is very good at football and has a very bright future, both for the Vikings and in fantasy football. The problem with his fantasy value is he’d been playing behind K.J. Osborn. That’s all about to change with Justin Jefferson on IR due to a hamstring strain.

Addison is now poised to play in two-receiver sets opposite Osborn. And since he’s a vastly superior talent, he should command more targets. T.J. Hockenson will likely lead this team in targets, but Addison should be second. The only hiccup could be an ankle injury that limited him at practice Wednesday.

We never like to see players on the injury report. However, it is only Wednesday, and Addison was practicing. Wednesday practices are largely meaningless in terms of absences. But when a player is on the field on a Wednesday, it’s usually a good sign.

Update: Addison was limited once again at Thursday’s practice. Even if he’s limited again on Friday, he is on pace to play this week.

MORE: Katz’s Fantasy Football Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em Picks for Week 6

Head coach Kevin O’Connell didn’t seem concerned at all.

Neither should fantasy managers.

It’s wheels up for Addison this week. He will be ranked higher than he ever has in our PFN Consensus Rankings. If you have him, be sure to get him in lineups.

Are We Just Weeks Away From Jalen Ramsey’s Return to Miami Dolphins Lineup?

Adam H. Beasley
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Are We Just Weeks Away From Jalen Ramsey’s Return to Miami Dolphins Lineup?

It’s time to again start seriously thinking about what the Miami Dolphins defense will look like with Jalen Ramsey on the field.

Because for the second time in four days, a Dolphins coach has suggested that we’re closer to the end of Ramsey’s rehab from knee surgery than we are to the beginning of it.

Ramsey needed a full repair after damaging his meniscus the first week of training camp.

He’s been on injured reserve all season, but both head coach Mike McDaniel and Sam Madison — Ramsey’s position coach — have suggested on the record this week that Ramsey could return to practice in the not-so-distant future.

From the current NFL standings to team depth charts to coverage of every game in the 18-week NFL schedule, we have all the news from around the league to keep you up to speed!

Miami Dolphins CB Jalen Ramsey Injury Update

On Thursday, reporters asked Madison if Ramsey could potentially see game action next month.

Here was his response, per the South Florida Sun-Sentinel:

“Yeah. Speaking with the trainers a lot, the weight room guys. He looks really good. He’s been really good for the young guys, coming out there, encouraging them, telling them what he sees on film. That’s very, very encouraging, especially having a veteran of that stature and having him in the room, still being into it.

” … Very hopeful, Looking forward to getting him on the field. Been watching this guy for a very long time and finally had him in training camp. But when he’s ready and they say he’s a go, he’s definitely going to help us.”

What’s more, Madison seemed to suggest that the bigger concern of the coaching staff is Ramsey trying to do too much, too soon — not whether he’ll return at all in 2023.

“Hopefully, when he comes back, it’s just going to be, ‘What can he take?'” Madison said.

“You never want to put a guy out there and then injure something else. You want to take your time with him. But everybody in here has dealt with him and understands his mentality.

“His mentality is if they have 80 plays, he’s going to want to play 80 plays. Just making sure that his conditioning is there so we don’t have any setbacks. Just listen to the trainers. Mike’s talking about him. He’s been doing really good, so hopefully, whenever the time comes he knocks on that door, we’re going to open it up and let him go.”

MORE: Miami Dolphins Schedule 2023

Madison’s comments come three days after McDaniel told reporters that Ramsey is “doing a great job. He’s a special breed. And he is on the positive side of return for sure.”

The Dolphins have games in each of the next four weeks before getting the bye the week of Nov. 12.

It would not at all be surprising if Ramsey returns to practice after that weekend off.

Fantasy Injury Updates: News on Deshaun Watson, Daniel Jones, and Dak Prescott Impacting QB Rankings

Jason Katz
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Fantasy Injury Updates: News on Deshaun Watson, Daniel Jones, and Dak Prescott Impacting QB Rankings

Dealing with injuries is easily the most frustrating part of fantasy football. Typically, the QB position is healthier than the others. This year, there are a handful of guys dealing with injuries. What is the latest injury information on Deshaun Watson, Daniel Jones, and Dak Prescott?

Looking to make a trade in your fantasy league? Having trouble deciding who to start and who to sit? Setting DFS lineups? Check out PFN’s Free Fantasy Football Trade Analyzer, Start/Sit Optimizer, and DFS Lineup Optimizer to help you make the right decision!

Injury Updates for Top Fantasy Football QBs

Deshaun Watson, Cleveland Browns

Analysis last updated at 6:30 p.m. ET on Thursday, Oct. 12.

Three weeks ago, Deshaun Watson suffered a shoulder injury. Two weeks ago, Watson was cleared to play by team doctors, but he did not play.

According to Kevin Stefanski, it was Watson’s decision to hold himself out, as he did not feel ready. Since that game, the Browns have had their bye week. Strangely, Watson still isn’t healthy.

This is a tough situation to get a read on. Watson will likely get in at least a couple of limited practices this week. The term “limited” is very broad as it pertains to practice reports. Watson could throw all of five passes at practice and still be classified as limited.

The extent to which Watson practices over the next three days may not give us much insight into whether he plays Sunday. A full practice would all but guarantee it. However, reading the tea leaves coming out of Browns’ camp, I don’t expect him to get in a full practice ahead of Sunday’s game, and he did not practice on Wednesday.

Update: Watson did not practice on Thursday, either. At this point, he is very clearly trending toward not starting. Fantasy managers should expect it to be P.J. Walker against the 49ers on Sunday.

Second Update: According to Josina Anderson, Watson will be out this week. The only Browns fantasy managers should even consider starting are Amari Cooper and Jerome Ford.

Cleveland has already stated that former XFL and Carolina Panthers QB P.J. Walker will start over rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson if Watson cannot go. At this point, it’s too early to make any definitive predictions, but my guess is Watson remains sidelined for another week.

MORE: Fantasy Injury Update — Tee Higgins, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Tank Dell Impacting Week 6 Rankings

Fantasy managers weren’t starting Watson against the best team in the NFL, the San Francisco 49ers, anyway.

The real issue is what his absence means for the likes of Amari Cooper, David Njoku, and Jerome Ford. All three become far less desirable starts if Watson can’t go. Njoku is firmly a sit this week, while Cooper and Ford get downgraded from twos to threes at their respective positions.

Daniel Jones, New York Giants

Analysis last updated at 1:20 p.m. ET on Thursday, Oct. 12.

Two years ago, Daniel Jones missed the end of the season due to a neck injury. After a healthy 2022, he suffered another neck injury last week.

Neck injuries are as scary as they get for anyone. We’ve seen them end multiple careers very early, including that of a former Giant, David Wilson. Teams and players can and will take no chances with neck injuries.

With that said, the term “neck injury” could mean a wide array of things, ranging from the most serious to the most insignificant. By the sounds of it, Jones’ injury is on the far more mild side.

There seemed to be a sense of optimism surrounding Jones’ availability for Sunday Night Football against the Bills. Jones didn’t practice on Wednesday, but head coach Brian Daboll said he’s more sore than anything else. However, on Thursday, NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported that Jones is trending in the wrong direction to play. Then Jones was absent from practice again Thursday, with NYDN reporting he likely will not play.

Jones is nowhere near being a fantasy option. Despite his poor play, though, he’s still better for Giants receivers than Tyrod Taylor would be at this point in his career. Regardless, Darren Waller remains the only Giants pass catcher worth starting.

Dak Prescott, Dallas Cowboys

At this point, it’s unclear if Dak Prescott will even be listed on the practice report ahead of Week 6. In last week’s blowout loss to the 49ers, Prescott had his hand stepped on, resulting in his right middle finger having a wrap around it.

Prescott didn’t miss a single snap and did not seem affected by the injury at all. He did not play particularly well, but I wouldn’t attribute that to this seemingly minor finger injury.

This looks like a nothing burger to me. Perhaps Prescott is listed on the injury report with a finger issue, but expect to see him practice fully all week. He’s not at any risk of missing Monday night’s potential shootout with the Chargers. And it’s great news for fantasy managers, as this is a fantastic get-right spot for Prescott and the entire Cowboys offense.

Is Travis Kelce Playing Today? Latest Injury Updates, Fantasy Analysis, and More

Ben Rolfe
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Is Travis Kelce Playing Today? Latest Injury Updates, Fantasy Analysis, and More

The NFL world collectively held its breath last week when Travis Kelce limped off the field and then gingerly headed to the locker room. The Kansas City Chiefs TE was able to return and play through the pain, but it was clear that the ankle injury was still bothering him.

With initial fears that the injury could be a high ankle sprain, there was much relief when it was diagnosed as the low ankle variety. However, with the short turnaround from Sunday to Thursday, will it be too quick for Kelce to play in Week 6, and what does that mean for fantasy football managers?

Looking to make a trade in your fantasy league? Having trouble deciding who to start and who to sit? Setting DFS lineups? Check out PFN’s Free Fantasy Football Trade Analyzer, Start/Sit Optimizer, and DFS Lineup Optimizer to help you make the right decision!

Is Travis Kelce Going To Play Week 6?

Alarm bells were raised on Monday when Kelce was listed as a projected non-participant in practice. The Chiefs didn’t actually practice, but even if they had, Kelce would not have been involved. Tuesday was the only day this week Kansas City practiced, and Kelce managed to get out on the field in a limited fashion.

Wednesday saw Kelce listed as questionable on the final injury report ahead of the game, with another projected limited participation if the Chiefs had practiced. The optimistic view of that is that Chiefs’ trainers did not see any kind of setback Wednesday morning that would have led to Kelce sitting out.

Entering Thursday morning, Kelce’s status remains very much up in the air, but NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero believes he is trending toward playing. As we get closer to the game, we’ll most likely get a more definitive picture. Worst-case scenario, fantasy managers will find out 90 minutes before the game if Kelce is active when the Chiefs announce their game-day inactives.

Update 10/12/2023: Kelce is officially active and will play tonight against the Broncos.

If Kelce is on the field, fantasy managers realistically have to ride it and play him.

MORE: Week 6 TE Waiver Wire Targets

The weather in Kansas City is less than ideal for the passing game, but the Chiefs would surely not risk their star tight end being out on the field if they weren’t going to try and use him in the passing game. There is likely too much risk to a tight end in his blocking duties for him to play as a decoy.

The issue for fantasy managers comes if Kelce is out and where they turn. Chances are, if you drafted Kelce, you don’t have a backup TE on your roster. Therefore, if Kelce is ruled out in Week 6, you may find yourself scrambling.

Potential Fantasy Options if Kelce Is Out Includes Noah Gray and Blake Bell

The great thing about Kelce playing Thursday is that fantasy managers have time to find a replacement. You could look at streaming options from PFN’s Week 6 Consensus Fantasy Rankings, or you could look elsewhere on the Chiefs’ roster.

We have recent experience to lean upon for how Kansas City may use Blake Bell and Noah Gray. Unfortunately, it doesn’t make great reading for fantasy managers.

Gray saw the majority of the targets out of the two with five. However, that only turned into three receptions for 31 yards.

Meanwhile, Bell was targeted just three times but had the better fantasy return thanks to a touchdown. Realistically, if you’re starting either of the Chiefs’ backup tight ends in Kelce’s absence, you’re hoping one of them finds the end zone.

Combine that with the poor weather forecast for the passing game, and just maybe, this is going to be a write-off game for the Chiefs’ tight ends. It may be best to look elsewhere this week if you need cover for Kelce.

‘[It] Did Get Him Rusty’ — Miami Dolphins’ Vic Fangio Gets Candid About Christian Wilkins’ Hold-In

Adam H. Beasley
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‘[It] Did Get Him Rusty’ — Miami Dolphins’ Vic Fangio Gets Candid About Christian Wilkins’ Hold-In

You can always count on Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Vic Fangio to provide honesty when most of his peers would provide coach-speak.

The latest example?

His blunt assessment of the impact of Christian Wilkins’ contract hold-in during training camp.

From the current NFL standings to team depth charts to coverage of every game in the 18-week NFL schedule, we have all the news from around the league to keep you up to speed!

DC Vic Fangio on Miami Dolphins DT Christian Wilkins

Fangio was asked about Wilkins’ play through five weeks of the NFL season during his Thursday media availability. Here was his response, per the South Florida Sun-Sentinel:

“I think his play has been good. I think it’s improving. I do think the layoff he had in training camp, after the first 10 days or so when he did partake in it, did get him rusty. But I think he’s back to where he was then. I see no effects of his contract situation affecting him.

Back in August, Wilkins declined to participate in most training camp drills and all of the preseason games in protest of his contract situation. He’s earning $10.8 million this year on his fifth-year option, and presumably believes he’s worth twice that.

But he also has been 100% on board since his return to full participation, and said after his hold-in ended that he’s “just focused on being the best teammate I can be and being there for my guys and getting ready to play a game and get focused on the season.”

Wilkins never considered demanding a trade but instead has elected to bet on himself in this contract year.

So far, he hasn’t made the kind of plays that will get him that $20 million AAV contract his peers have in recent months.

MORE: Miami Dolphins Depth Chart

Wilkins through five weeks has 19 tackles (10th on the team), one tackle for loss (tied-ninth), and 1.5 sacks (fourth). He does have six quarterback hits, one off the team lead.

Five of those six hits have come in the last three weeks — a data point that supports Fangio’s assessment that Wilkins has improved.

“I feel like the biggest thing is just having each other’s back,” Wilkins said Monday. “Like there might be times here when the defense whatever and the offense picks it up, or the offense whatever or special teams or someone picks it up.

“I feel like we have each other’s backs but we’re still fighting hard, working hard, to have more consistent or complete games from everybody.”

‘Let Russ Cook’ – The History Behind Russell Wilson’s Cringy Meme

Tony Catalina
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‘Let Russ Cook’ – The History Behind Russell Wilson’s Cringy Meme

The court of public opinion can change on you rather quickly. Such is the reality of Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson. What was once a successful and promising career has turned into fans laughing and joking at his expense — maybe a little too often.

Such is the life of an NFL quarterback in the spotlight whose teams have struggled over the last few seasons.

From the current NFL standings to team depth charts to coverage of every game in the 18-week NFL schedule, we have all the news from around the league to keep you up to speed!

Russell Wilson and the History of ‘Let Russ Cook’

Wilson is a Super Bowl-winning quarterback who, at one time, was thought to be one of the main pieces of a growing dynasty with the Seattle Seahawks. Life comes at you fast, and Wilson now finds himself with a new contract but with a struggling team and carrying the brunt of expectations on his shoulders.

With the roller coaster that has been Wilson’s career, let’s take a closer look at “Let Russ Cook” and how it evolved from a term of endearment to a joke rather quickly.

MORE: When Can the Broncos Get Out of the Russell Wilson Contract?

Believe it or not, the phrase was sincere at one point in time. The term “Let Russ Cook” grew from his time in Seattle when he was playing at a high level for the team. The phrase was spurred by fans eager to let Wilson go and be great at a time when the Seahawks and head coach Pete Carroll preferred a run-first offense.

Fans wanted to see Wilson unleashed and felt the team would be better served by putting the game in the hands of their quarterback more often than the running backs. At the height of his career, Wilson was efficient and a true weapon, and the Seahawks were hopeful for the future.

Current Day of ‘Let Russ Cook’ Movement

The thing about love and admiration in sports is that if someone else gets their hands on it, it could go south — quickly.

Such is the case with Wilson and the “Let Russ Cook” movement. In the world of social media, the meaning has since been hijacked and has taken on a whole new meaning of its own. One that is much less friendly in nature.

The slogan has become a meme after Wilson’s disastrous start as a Bronco. Fans were quick to pile on the quarterback after his miserable performance against the Colts in his first season with his new team.

Since then, the only thing that has taken off is the meme. The Broncos and Wilson have struggled throughout his tenure, which has only grown the insidious meaning of the phrase.

As long as the play does not elevate, the “Let Russ Cook” memes will not be going anywhere. The only way to have fans interested in someone else’s cooking is for Russ to go out there and roast some NFL defenses. Until then, he’s the internet chef.

Tua, Jalen, Mac, or Bryce: Who’s the Best Alabama QB? We’re About To Find Out

Adam H. Beasley
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Tua, Jalen, Mac, or Bryce: Who’s the Best Alabama QB? We’re About To Find Out

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — NFL schedule-makers — either by design or serendipity — created a truly once-in-a-lifetime event in 2023.

All we need for it to happen is good health luck — and a bit of cooperation from Bill Belichick.

When Miami Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa takes the field Sunday against Bryce Young and the Carolina Panthers, it will kick off a historic three-game stretch.

From the current NFL standings to team depth charts to coverage of every game in the 18-week NFL schedule, we have all the news from around the league to keep you up to speed!

Tua Tagovailoa, Miami Dolphins Begin Alabama Stretch of Schedule

The former Alabama quarterback will face three different fellow Crimson Tide starting QBs in as many weeks (again, so long as Belichick doesn’t bench a slumping Mac Jones by then).

  • Week 6: Dolphins vs. Panthers (Young)
  • Week 7: Dolphins at Eagles (Jalen Hurts)
  • Week 8: Dolphins vs. Patriots (Jones)

It’s the first time in history a Crimson Tide QB will have faced three different starters from Bama in three consecutive weeks. And if there’s a previous time in NFL history that such a stretch happened involving quarterbacks from any one school, please send that example our way.

Tagovailoa, Hurts, and Jones were all teammates at Alabama from 2017-2018 (and won a national championship together) before Hurts transferred to Oklahoma. Jones and Young played together in 2020, winning another ring in Jones’ final season in Tuscaloosa.

Tagovailoa and Young never played together. But the former’s influence on the latter cannot be overstated.

Young, ahead of this week’s game, said that the way the Bama offense transformed into a wide-open passing attack under Tua changed his perception of the school — and paved the way for his commitment.

“It was a big transition from when he was there, just what the offense looked like and what Alabama moved to offensively,’’ Young said. “So that was a big reason for me being there.’’

Upon hearing that for the first time Wednesday, Tagovailoa had the following reaction:

“That means a lot. The things that he did over there at Alabama, I mean, I couldn’t even do. So for him to have won the Heisman, for him to have done the things that he’s done, breaking records over there at Alabama, it’s a testament of the family that he comes from. It’s a testament of his hard work.

“As he’s maneuvering his way throughout the league, and he’s finding out the type of person that he is, the type of player that he is, I know that he’ll continue to grow and continue to find ways to do good and things like that. So I got all the respect for Bryce, and I wish him the best.”

Perhaps someday, Young will surpass Tagovailoa in the NFL too. But, as we explore in our Alabama quarterback rankings, he’s got a long way to go.

Ranking the Current Alabama QBs in the NFL

Tua Tagovailoa, Miami Dolphins

This was a close call. Hurts’ 2022 season was spectacular, but Tagovailoa has been even better in 2023.

Tua after five weeks leads the NFL in passing yards (1,614) and yards per attempt (9.7), and ranks in the top three in EPA per play (.28), CPOE (7.3), touchdowns (11), QBR (75.6), and passer rating (111.9).

And this isn’t an overreaction to a small sample size.

Dating back to the start of the 2022 season, Tagovailoa is third in EPA per play (.25), behind only Brock Purdy and Patrick Mahomes.

Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles

While Tagovailoa is easily the better pocket passer — and that’s the trump card in even today’s NFL — Hurts has a more complete game.

The 2022 NFL MVP has accounted for 10 of his team’s 12 touchdowns in 2023 (six passing, four rushing) and 45 of their 69 scores since the start of the 2022 season.

MORE: QB Power Rankings 2023

In his four-year career, Hurts has averaged 7.6 yards per pass and 5.0 yards per carry. But if you’re looking for flaws, you can find them.

Hurts’ career completion percentage (63%) needs work, and he’s thrown four interceptions in five games already this season.

But he also took his team to the Super Bowl, while Tua’s next playoff win will be his first.

Bryce Young, Carolina Panthers

While the call between 1 and 2 was a close one, there’s a big gap between 2 and 3.

And to be quite frank, ranking Young third is a function of grading on a curve. He’s only played four games — and they haven’t been good.

Young ranks 17th in touchdowns (5), 22nd in completion percentage (63.9%), 29th in passer rating (77.0), 32nd in QBR (28.6), and 33rd in yards per attempt (5.2).

But he’s also surrounded by perhaps the worst collection of skill position players in the league. There’s reason to believe he’ll improve.

Mac Jones, New England Patriots

With Jones, that reason doesn’t exist — not without a complete change of scenery.

The Patriots have about seen enough of him and probably will have a new starting quarterback in 2024.

Jones had a QB rating under 51 in each of his three NFL seasons and has a terrible touchdown-interception ratio (41-30). And he seems to be getting worse.

Jones this year is posting career worsts in completion percentage (62.5%), touchdown rate (3%), interception rate (3.6%), success rate (40.1%), yards per attempt (6.0), and passer rating (74.2).

Dating back to his rookie year, Jones ranks 33rd in EPA+CPOE composite (.06).

It wouldn’t be a huge surprise if he’s benched prior to Week 8.

Best NFL Podcasts: Players Who Became Podcasters Include the Kelce Brothers and More

Ryan Broyles
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Best NFL Podcasts: Players Who Became Podcasters Include the Kelce Brothers and More

There are podcasts about every topic you could imagine. Naturally, many are dedicated to the NFL. It has quickly become an ascending medium, not only for fans and analysts but players, too. Current and former NFL stars are now in the podcasting game, creating content based on their real-life experiences.

From the current NFL standings to team depth charts to coverage of every game in the 18-week NFL schedule, we have all the news from around the league to keep you up to speed!

Who Are the Top Current or Former NFL Players Who Also Podcast?

Travis Kelce and Jason Kelce

The Kelce brothers have taken the podcasting world by storm. The two brothers, who attended the University of Cincinnati, are inseparable as personalities who cover the NFL in an entertaining way.

“New Heights” immediately climbed the sports podcast rankings and is now considered one of the best in the sports vertical. Travis and Jason Kelce embody their two fanbases, and playing for two of the larger NFL markets (and most dominant teams) doesn’t hurt.

The highlight of the podcast had to be the lead-up to the AFC and NFC Championship games.

MORE: PFN Life — Off-the-Field Content

The Kansas Chiefs defeated the Cincinnati Bengals in the AFC title game, while the Philadelphia Eagles defeated the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC circuit, meaning the Kelce brothers would face off in the Super Bowl.

Ryan Clark

During his playing days, Ryan Clark was known as one of the defensive back mainstays for a dominant Pittsburgh Steelers defense. Clark paired with fellow safety Troy Polamalu to give the opposition fits.

Clark parlayed his playing career into a successful broadcasting career with ESPN. He has won awards for broadcasting as one of the most respected in the field.

Currently, Clark hosts “The Pivot Podcast” alongside two other NFL greats, RB Fred Taylor and LB Channing Crowder. The three cover several topics from their unique perspective as former players.

Taylor provides insight from the offensive side of the ball as the long-time Jacksonville Jaguars’ back, and Crowder provides defensive insight from his time as an off-the-ball linebacker.

Brandon Marshall and Chad Johnson

The combination of these two receivers is worth the price of admission. Johnson is one of the most entertaining players in NFL history, notorious for his antics and celebrations after scoring a TD. Marshall and Johnson were All-Pro pass-catchers during their NFL playing careers.

Marshall and Johnson were originally joined by the aforementioned Taylor and Crowder on the “I Am Athlete” podcast, but there were contractual issues that led to the original cast disbanding. LeSean McCoy and Adam “Pacman” Jones joined the new cast.

When Can the Broncos Get Out of the Russell Wilson Contract?

Tony Catalina
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When Can the Broncos Get Out of the Russell Wilson Contract?

Massive quarterback contracts can truly make or break an NFL franchise. Get it right and it oftentimes ends up looking like a bargain within the ever-growing salary cap. However, if you get it wrong, it could hamstring your franchise for years to come.

While it is too early to say that the latter is the reality for the Denver Broncos and Russell Wilson, it has not been sunshine and rainbows so far. It is surely making decision-makers in Denver a bit uneasy these days. The Broncos were not good in 2022, and they are not off to a good start in 2023 either. While it is not all on the QB, they will always share some of the blame.

If Denver was ever looking to get out of the Wilson deal, how would they go about it? Let’s take a closer look at the situation.

From the current NFL standings to team depth charts to coverage of every game in the 18-week NFL schedule, we have all the news from around the league to keep you up to speed!

Russell Wilson’s Contract

In September of 2022, just six months after completing a blockbuster trade that brought Wilson to Denver, the team signed the QB to a massive five-year, $245 million extension. With the two years already on the books, it pushed the total commitment to seven years and $296 million for the team.

The deal is good for an annual year salary of $48.5 million and includes $50 million in signing bonuses, as well as $161 million in guaranteed money. The commitment for Wilson is large, but the return on investment has not been what anybody hoped it would be.

Now, the question of if they made the right decision looms large.

How Can the Broncos Get Out of Wilson’s Contract?

When you sign your QB to a five-year extension with seven total years of control, it is safe to assume you are in it for the long haul. Such is the case for the Broncos, and the fact that things have not gone swimmingly since Wilson’s arrival has made things much harder to swallow.

Due to the guaranteed money and the dead cap situation, Denver is handcuffed not only for 2023 but at least through 2024 as well. It is possible the Broncos have Wilson for one more season in 2024 before cutting him either as a pre-June 1 cut to absorb all the charges in 2025 or spread the charges out as a post-June 1 cut.

MORE: QB Power Rankings 2023

Both are less than ideal due to the financial ramifications associated with each so early in the contract. Denver would gain nothing in cap savings with the move in 2024 because the dead money with a post-June 1 cut ($35.4 million) would equal what his 2024 salary would be. In 2025, Denver would still have $49.6 million in dead money, which would only be a net savings of $5.8 million.

The best-case scenario is for Wilson and the Broncos to find success on the field. If they don’t win, things could get messy for the franchise. Moving on from Wilson is a decision that not only starts a rebuild but helps decide the timeline of it, too.

Denver Broncos vs. Kansas City Chiefs Predictions: 5 Crucial Stats Include Sacks, Downfield Passing, and the Taylor Swift Effect

Dalton Miller
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Denver Broncos vs. Kansas City Chiefs Predictions: 5 Crucial Stats Include Sacks, Downfield Passing, and the Taylor Swift Effect

The Denver Broncos travel to take on the Kansas City Chiefs for a Thursday Night Football matchup that, on the surface, may not be the most competitive game in the world. However, as we saw last Thursday, anything is possible in a short week. But this contest shouldn’t be all that competitive, and we’ll get to exactly why that’s the case momentarily.

But first, a public service announcement.

NFL fans are already sick and tired of the hoopla Taylor Swift has brought to the product. But one must understand that the NFL — more than anything — is a money-printing factory. And whether you like it or not, she is the biggest music star in the world. She alone has more fans than the NFL.

And because parasocial relationships are so prevalent, those fans would storm the beaches of Normandy for her. Her impact on the NFL product goes far beyond the broadcast showing more of her on the television screen than the game.

Now, back to your regularly scheduled programming.

From the current NFL standings to team depth charts to coverage of every game in the 18-week NFL schedule, we have all the news from around the league to keep you up to speed!

Denver Broncos vs. Kansas City Chiefs Predictions

It shouldn’t surprise anyone that the PFN game selectors were unanimous for Thursday Night Football in Week 6.

  • Beasley: Chiefs
  • Bearman: Chiefs
  • Miller: Chiefs
  • Morrison: Chiefs
  • Robinson: Chiefs

But let’s dive into why. Even when looking past the obvious on-paper mismatches, this contest appears very one-sided.

Russell Wilson, the Chiefs, and Sacks

We’re not breaking news in reporting that Russell Wilson takes too many sacks. Since the beginning of 2022, Wilson has been sacked 70 times, according to Inside Edge. Conversely, the Chiefs have the third-most sacks in the league during that same period (68).

Wilson is currently pressured at the second-highest rate in the league, but his sack rate sits at 7.9%, good for only 10th in the NFL, according to Sports Info Solutions. In short, Mr. Unlimited has been better at avoiding sacks so far in 2023. He’s obviously more mobile than a season ago and clearly more confident in Sean Payton’s offense.

Is there any good news for Wilson, Payton, and Broncos fans?

Yes, there is. So far in 2023, the Chiefs’ pass rush has been lackluster. They’re 24th in pressure rate and only 22nd in sack rate. Only Chris Jones and George Karlaftis have been consistently winning, with Leo Chenal, an off-ball linebacker, being their third-best rusher in blitzing situations.

The Broncos’ offensive line and Wilson must find success here because their offense needs to push the ball downfield, where he remains one of the best in the game.

Denver Broncos Downfield Passing

Wilson is a great downfield passer. While the rest of Denver’s passing attack has also improved this year, they’ve done a much better job of giving Wilson chances to show off that outstanding trait.

His 19 attempts of 20+ air yards rank ninth through five games. Despite having the ninth-most attempts, he is first in intended air yards on downfield attempts. His 33.7-yard average is the farthest in the league.

MORE: Broncos vs. Chiefs Weather Report

Wilson’s also third in yards per attempt, fifth in passer rating, eighth in EPA, and 11th in positive EPA rate.

Kansas City’s defense ranks 10th in yards per attempt, eighth in passer rating, sixth in EPA per play, and 11th in positive EPA rate.

So, the Chiefs are a top-third NFL team defending downfield passes, and the Broncos have been a top-third team passing downfield. Can Denver find the looks they want and have time to operate against Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs defense?

Broncos Defense Is Historically Bad

Different metrics will look and value things a bit differently. But so far, through five games, no team has produced a worse defensive DVOA… ever.

DVOA metrics go back to 1981. And even if we look elsewhere, this unit has been historically bad.

It can be challenging to accurately measure pressure rates in football. According to Pro Football Reference, the Broncos have recorded only 26 pressures and have a pressure rate of 14.8%, which is the lowest in the league.

SIS, on the other hand, reports a pressure rate of 30.1%, which ranks 27th in the league. Their 35% pass rush win rate ranks 29th. It’s important to note that determining pressures and win rates is a subjective process.

But even through that lens, Denver can’t get pressure. And they can’t cover, either.

Denver Broncos vs. Kansas City Chiefs Predictions: 5 Crucial Stats Include Sacks, Downfield Passing, and the Taylor Swift Effect
Oct 1, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) passes over the defense of Denver Broncos defensive end Zach Allen (99) in the second quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports

Teams have a 53.7% success rate throwing against the Broncos and a 0.328 dropback EPA. Both are the worst marks in the league, and it won’t take you long to see where they rank against the run.

Only the Panthers hold a worse rushing EPA defensively. Denver is also 21st in success rate when defending the run.

Kansas City Chiefs Look Different in 2023

The Chiefs are seventh in EPA, fourth in success rate, fifth in dropback EPA, third in dropback success rate, 29th in rushing EPA, and 17th in rushing success rate… on defense.

This is, analytically speaking, the most well-rounded start to a Chiefs season since Mahomes took over as the starting quarterback. Yet, nobody really feels like this team is as dominant because the offense isn’t clearly above the rest of the league like usual.

They’re only fourth in offensive EPA and 12th in success rate. Kansas City’s QB is playing on a bum ankle, and so is their Hall of Fame TE. The Chiefs don’t have a single legitimate WR1, and it’s very debatable whether they have a legitimate WR2.

Nevertheless, they’re still a top-five unit through five weeks. But Kansas City’s defense is what has kept them dominant.

The Taylor Swift Effect

Swift has 270 million people following her on Instagram. That is 4.3x more followers than the NFL has — on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) COMBINED.

She is the biggest Pop star in a world that has never been more online. The total gross of her “Eras Tour” was over $1 billion, and her take-home was $300 million. Deshaun Watson won’t make that much in his five years with the Browns.

MORE: Chiefs TE Seeing Massive Social Media Spike Thanks to Taylor Swift

Travis Kelce’s jersey sales saw a 400% increase, according to Fanatics. He’s currently fifth in the league in sales. New Heights went from being the top-ranked sports podcast to the top-ranked podcast in the world on Apple, independent of genre.

The Chiefs’ Sunday Night Football game against the New York Jets had the second-highest ratings of the season behind the opening kickoff against the Detroit Lions, with 27 million people tuning in to see the game, Swift, and her entourage of famous friends.

According to Forbes, “ratings among female teens (age 12-to-17) grew by 53%, the audience among women age 18-to-24 increased 24% while women age 35+ rose 34%.”

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