PROVIDENCE Ahkello Witherspoon Jersey , R.I. (AP) — A Rhode Island town council has voted to ask its departments to refrain from purchasing Nike products, one of a handful of local governments or agencies that have called for boycotts in recent weeks.The North Smithfield Town Council passed the resolution on a 3-2 vote Monday evening, Council President John Beauregard said. The resolution is nonbinding.Beauregard, a former state trooper, is upset with Nike’s decision to use former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick in an ad campaign. The town’s administrator didn’t know of any specific Nike products that municipal departments are currently using.The American Civil Liberties Union of Rhode Island said the town could be held legally and financially liable for violating the First Amendment and told members of the council: “Just don’t do it.”The mayor of a New Orleans suburb recently rescinded a similar directive based on an attorney’s advice.Kenner Mayor Ben Zahn, a Republican, had issued a memo saying that Nike products could not be purchased for use at city recreation facilities. It also required the parks and recreation director to approve all athletic purchases by booster clubs using the facilities. The order prompted a protest that included three members of the NFL’s New Orleans Saints and hundreds of others.And Mississippi’s public safety chief said over the weekend that state police would no longer buy Nike products, saying that Nike doesn’t support law enforcement and the military. It wasn’t immediately clear how much gear the state police agency buys from Nike, though the department has bought shoes, shirts and tactical training uniforms from the company. Republican Gov. Phil Bryant lauded the decision.A Nike spokesman said Monday he couldn’t comment on the various governmental actions.Kaepernick began kneeling during the national anthem in 2016 to protest police brutality and social injustice.Beauregard said he proposed taking a stance in North Smithfield because he feels Kaepernick has been disrespectful toward police. He said it’s not about kneeling during the anthem.In a statement released after the vote, the ACLU of Rhode Island described the resolution’s passage over the objects of residents who opposed it as “shameful.”“By attacking the right to peacefully protest and refusing to recognize the racial injustice prompting it, the resolution shows a disdain for both freedom and equality,” the statement said. “Rhode Island is better than this.” The 49ers wrapped up the Senior Bowl last week, getting a first-hand look at some of college football’s top prospects. The focus for general manager John Lynch and coach Kyle Shanahan is now squarely on NFL free agency approaching on March 13th, and the 2019 NFL Draft, which starts on April 25th. It’s a critical offseason for the 49ers’ leading pair as they approach Year 3 at the helm.We’re back with your latest questions in this week’s offseason mailbag. You’re welcome to drop questions in here for our next mailbag or tweet me @Rob_Lowder.“Do you feel the 49ers’ redzone deficiencies are a product of personnel we have right now, or could it be a schematic issue? How can this be improved this offseason?” ShigaIt’s difficult to criticize the 49ers’ schematic success in the red zone while the team deployed an injury-riddled offense led by a third-string quarterback in 2018. Shanahan’s options were admittedly limited after the loss of both starting quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo and versatile running back Jerick McKinnon. For now, the focus should be placed on the healthy return of those key pieces Colin Kaepernick Jersey , while adding talent capable of threatening defenses inside the 20-yard line. With a healthy amount of cap space and an early draft pick, the opportunity is there for Lynch to add impact talent on offense and give Shanahan the tools he needs to find pay dirt on a more frequent basis.“What do you think needs to be fixed the most for the #49ers red zone offense to improve in 2019?” Bobby HorneTo expand on the last question, the surest way to address the 49ers’ red zone woes is to add talent capable of making plays when it matters. Tyrell Williams would be among my first suggestions in free agency. The 6-foot-4 Los Angeles Chargers wideout possesses an intriguing blend of size and speed that would command respect from defenses as the team approaches the end zone. Williams caught 41 passes for 653 yards and five touchdowns in 2018 within a stacked Chargers offense.A receiver to keep an eye on in the draft is Deebo Samuel. The South Carolina receiver attended the Senior Bowl and excelled under the 49ers’ coaching staff, putting his crafty route-running and reliable hands on display. At 6-foot and 210 pounds, Samuel has a similar frame to Pierre Gar莽on. Samuel would make an ideal replacement for the 49ers’ veteran receiver that may be on his way out before the season. Samuel racked up 62 receptions for 882 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2018.Adding a pair of scoring threat like Williams and/or Samuel would give the 49ers new life in the red zone.“What do u think the Denver Broncos would offer the 49ers to move to the 2nd pick?” Ninerguy77The Denver Broncos and general manager John Elway are said to have eyes for Missouri Tigers quarterback Drew Lock. If they want to ensure they get their guy, Elway, who holds the draft’s 10th pick, may give Lynch a call in the hopes of swapping picks with the 49ers at No. 2. In 2016, the Philadelphia Eagles traded up from No. 8 to No. 2 with the Cleveland Browns, surrendering a third- and fourth-round pick in 2016, a first-round pick in 2017 and a second-round pick in 2018. The Eagles did this knowing they’d have their pick between quarterbacks Jared Goff and Carson Wentz. Ohio State’s Dwayne Haskins is widely considered the draft’s top quarterback, but neither he nor Lock seem to have the stock that would prompt team’s to trade up into the first-overall pick. This doesn’t mean that Elway won’t consider trading up, but it may not command the same haul the Browns pulled from the Eagles three years ago.“Seeing a lot of Trent Brown this week. I know he wasn’t a good fit for Shanhan’s scheme, but did we get anything in return?” Mike DallorsoBefore the season, the 49ers traded right tackle Trent Brown and a fifth-round pick to the New England Patriots in exchange a third-round pick. The 49ers’ starter on the right side of the line became expendable when the team selected Notre Dame tackle Mike McGlinchey ninth-overall in 2018. Brown, known for his pass-protecting ability, struggled with run-blocking in Shanahan’s scheme. The 49ers wanted to get more athletic at the position and did with McGlinchey.Lynch used the pick acquired from the Patriots to select Southern Mississippi’s Tarvarius Moore. The former safety was converted to cornerback by the 49ers and started in 2018 replacing the injured Ahkello Witherspoon. The jury is still out on Moore, who was inconsistent Womens Tevin Coleman Jersey , albeit inexperienced, when forced into the starting spotlight. “Assuming Bosa goes #1 and no pass rush is addressed in free agency, Quinnen Williams may makes the most (objective) sense. If this happens, what EDGE/pass rush player(s) would you target in the next three rounds?” Panda ExpressAlabama defensive lineman Quinnen Williams is widely considered the draft’s No. 2 player behind Ohio State defensive end Nick Bosa, with Kentucky linebacker Josh Allen a close third. If the 49ers were to select Williams, the fourth defensive lineman in five years, their next choice would come 34 picks later at 36. Pass rushers targeted in the second round could still provide immediate impact for the 49ers. Louisiana Tech’s Jaylon Ferguson, Old Dominion’s Oshane Ximines and Miami’s Joe Jackson would all be names to consider with pick No. 36. Beyond that, your guess would be as good as mine.“Why would the 49ers risk a trade down in the first for an EDGE who is more of a crap shoot versus just taking a blue chipper like Allen or Bosa? I think it’s not time to get cute with the draft we need an EDGE! Period!” Christopher PetersonI tend to agree with Christopher, however, the 49ers only own six picks in the 2019 draft. With the team still in the midst of a rebuild, Lynch can use all the picks he can get to infuse talent into the roster. If the 49ers are to consider trading out of second-overall, it should only be for a truly blockbuster deal that’s too good to pass up. The 49ers’ roster is in dire of the impact player that is typically guaranteed by a second-overall pick. For now, the plan should be to stand pat and turn in the card come draft day.“With only five picks in the draft, what are the chances that John Lynch trades back and gets extra picks?” Mr. WashingtonThe 49ers now have six draft picks after receiving a sixth-round compensatory selection for losing linebacker Aaron Lynch, who signed a $4 million deal with the Chicago Bears in the offseason. Still in the midst of a rebuild, the 49ers could use all the draft capital they can get, in 2019 and beyond. Lynch and Co. will consider trading back http://www.49erslockerroom.com/authentic-jimmie-ward-jersey , but the offer will need to be significant enough to pry them away from the top-tier players that will be available at second-overall. For now, I’d ballpark the chances of a trade at about 20%.“What’s up with this/these/that switching from Josh Allen to Nick Bosa...then DT Rashan Gary? ” Patricia AlegriaPatricia is referring to recent mock drafts from NFL’s Daniel Jeremiah and Lance Zierlein that pegged the 49ers with Michigan defensive lineman Rashan Gary. With the vast majority of mocks focusing on Kentucky’s Josh Allen, Alabama’s Quinnen Williams, or Ohio State’s Nick Bosa for the 49ers, it would seem Jeremiah and Zierlein are attempting to inject some fresh content into a scene that can become quite repetitive during this time of year. Mocks will deserve a lot more attention when March’s free agency is in the rear-view mirror and team’s are preparing for April’s draft.“Do you think 49ers are pressuring Jimmy by saying he will be at OTA’s?” Sean HerringThe 49ers wouldn’t risk Jimmy Garoppolo’s health for the sake of OTAs. If the team believes he’ll be ready, it’s safe to say they feel comfortable with Garoppolo’s recovery from a torn ACL suffered in Week 3 of 2018. The 49ers have endured more than their fair share of backup quarterbacks over the past two seasons, and will give Garoppolo all the time he needs to return to the starting lineup.“What should we do about our five running backs?” Gold by the LakeThe 49ers currently have five running backs on the roster, all of which got significant playing time in 2018 with the exception of Jerick McKinnon, who tore his ACL before the season. Matt Breida, Raheem Mostert, Jeff Wilson Jr., and Alfred Morris all shared a portion of the workload throughout the season. If I had to make an early prediction, I’d presume all except for Morris remain on the roster in 2019.“How much longer should we be patient with Solly?” DavidSolomon Thomas has disappointed in his first two seasons with the 49ers after they made him the draft’s third-overall pick in 2017. The former Stanford defensive lineman only managed 24 tackles, three tackles for loss and a sack on the season. 2019 will be a critical year for Thomas and proving to the 49ers that he’s a part of the team’s future along the defensive front. Patience will be hard to find beyond next season.“How much cap space do the 49ers now have after rolling over $35 million?” Harris ChisolmThe 49ers currently hold $61.8 million in salary cap for 2019, per Over the Cap. That number places them at seventh-most in the NFL. The team should see $2.95 million added to that amount after the expected departure of defensive lineman Earl Mitchell.“What is the biggest free agent you think the 49ers will realistically target seriously?” Vamsee VemulaI’d place my bet on the 49ers strongly pursing safety Earl Thomas of the Seattle Seahawks.

No matter what some Bucs fans think of Donovan Smith http://www.buccaneerslockerroom.com/authentic-vernon-hargreaves-iii-jersey , he is about to get paid. Starting left tackles are in short supply in the NFL, and Smith is only 25 and has started all 64 games in his career.Either the Bucs will pay him or someone else will.The 19 highest-paid left tackles in the league make at least $8 million a season, according to overthecap.com.Smith was asked by NFL Media about his detractors, who have pointed to his Pro Football Focus numbers.鈥淧eople have to sit out there and put stuff out there,鈥?Smith said on Good Morning, Football, via joebucsfan.com. 鈥淚 mean, whether it is good or bad, whatever is going to hit Bryan Anger Jersey , and mostly it is negative.鈥漈he Bucs are expected to extend or franchise Smith, a former second-round pick, and he’s ready for whatever hate that generates.鈥淚t is absolutely motivating,鈥?Smith said. 鈥淭here is nothing better than proving somebody wrong.鈥 Jameis Winston and Marcus Mariota will be on the same practice field for a couple days, though their football careers will be forever linked.They practiced on the same field Wednesday for one period as Winston's Tampa Bay Buccaneers worked out with Mariota's Tennessee Titans. There wasn't time for any chit chat between them."I just know he's a great guy, and I just love seeing him out here competing," Winston said.NFL fans know more than that. They are both quarterbacks. They are both Heisman Trophy winners, and they were the first players drafted in 2015.But they didn't get a chance watch one another practice, much less catch up on things."It was separate Gerald McCoy Jersey , so I didn't really get a chance to go see him," Mariota said.The decision by Tampa Bay coach Dirk Koetter and first-year Titans coach Mike Vrabel for their teams to work out together before Saturday night's preseason game brought back up the Winston-Mariota debate.The two worked out together before the 2015 NFL draft out in California. Titans general manager Jon Robinson worked with Tampa Bay when the Buccaneers chose Winston as the No. 1 pick overall over Mariota. Now Robinson has Mariota as the first of those two quarterbacks not only to reach the playoffs but win a game once in the postseason."Mariota, he just does a great job and the Tennessee Titans have a good football team," Winston said. "We have a good football team too. We just have to win more games. It's always good to compete against guys, but he's done a great job here and I have to continue to work on my craft and lead our team to the playoffs."The Bucs will be without Winston for the first three games this season as the quarterback sits out a suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy. The NFL announced the suspension in June after the league investigated an allegation Winston groped a female Uber driver in Arizona in March 2016.That's why Ryan Fitzpatrick started the Bucs' exhibition opener, a 26-24 win over Miami, and Winston worked with the second-team. Koetter said Fitzpatrick got the majority of the work with the Bucs' first-team offense when they worked on a separate field against the Titans' defense.Winston and Mariota will practice against each other again Thursday in the second of joint practices between the Bucs (1-0) and Titans (0-1). Then Fitzpatrick is expected to start again Saturday night.Koetter declined to compare where Winston and Mariota are now as quarterbacks going into their fourth seasons, happy with Winston."I'm not a good person to ask that, because I coach Jameis and I rarely get a chance to watch Marcus http://www.buccaneerslockerroom.com/authentic-deone-bucannon-jersey ," Koetter said. "We know where Jameis is at, you've documented that many times. I can't compare the two because I rarely get to watch Marcus."Not only does Mariota have the edge over Winston in the NFL with a playoff victory, he also has two very big wins. Mariota and Oregon routed Winston and Florida State 59-20 in the College Football Playoff semifinal in January 2015 . Mariota also is 1-0 against Winston and the Bucs with a 42-14 win in the quarterbacks' NFL debut in 2015.The 2014 Heisman Trophy winner said he's never really been concerned with being linked to Winston during the pre-draft process or since. Mariota knows who he is and focuses on trying to improve himself."It's always kind of interesting our paths cross again," Mariota said. "But it is good to see him, and hopefully we'll just continue to find ways to get better and look back on it and just kind of laugh about it."Follow Teresa M. Walker at teresamwalker

TAMPA Game Christian McCaffrey Jersey , Fla. (AP) — Cam Newton and Jameis Winston know there’s no surefire way for a quarterback to lead a team out of a funk.What works in one situation may not necessarily be the answer in another.Newton’s second-place Carolina Panthers (6-5) have lost three straight games following a 6-2 start, moving closer to the bottom of the NFC South than the top.Winston’s getting another chance to lead the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-7) out of the division cellar after spending a month on the bench because of his propensity for making costly mistakes.“In the NFL, part of winning is not losing, not beating yourself,” Bucs coach Dirk Koetter said, reflecting on Winston delivering his best performance of the season to help Tampa Bay stop a four-game skid last week.“You have to just keep it simple,” said Winston, who lost his starting job after turning the ball over 11 times in 14 quarters.The fourth-year pro said the difference during last week’s 27-9 rout of San Francisco was his decisiveness with the football.“I’m thinking about one play at a time, one completion at a time, one game at a time,” Winston said. “It’s easier to keep it simple when you’re decisive, making quick decisions and getting the ball out of your hands.”The Panthers haven’t won since beating the Bucs 42-28 at home on Nov. 4. Kicking woes factored in narrow losses the past two weeks to Detroit and Seattle, however, and Newton said he’s focused on the next opportunity to get back on track.Win or lose, he has learned you give yourself 24 hours to get over the excitement or disappointment.“You can either celebrate or sulk and sob,” the Carolina quarterback said. “After that 24 hours is up, let it go. That has been so helpful for me in my growth as a man.”For Winston, Sunday’s game against the Panthers represents the next test in what amounts to an audition to determine if he’s Tampa Bay’s quarterback of the future.The 24-year-old didn’t face the Panthers last time. He was benched after throwing four interceptions the previous week at Cincinnati.Some things to watch when the NFC South rivals meet:NEWTON LIKES WHERE HE’S ATNewton said this week he’s playing the best football of his career, despite a three-game losing streak.Newton has thrown at least two TD passes in 10 straight games and seems to be thriving in Norv Turner’s offensive scheme.“I’m just feeling in control,” Newton said. “There are no question marks. My assuredness of every single play I know exactly what I’m supposed to do.”McCAFFREY ON THE RUNChristian McCaffrey last week became the first Panthers running back to eclipse 100 yards rushing and 100 yards receiving in the same game. His 237 yards from scrimmage against the Seahawks were the most in franchise history.McCaffrey had 157 yards from scrimmage and two TDs rushing in the last meeting with the Bucs.Newton joked that you shouldn’t call the 5-foot-10, 205-pound McCaffrey “small,” because he hates being labeled a small back.“C-Mac has defied all odds,” Newton said. “With C-Mac, he has always been a workhorse. He’s always been a playmaker. There’s no denying that. My thing is when you draft a person Christian McCaffrey Womens Jersey , is he comfortable with the game on the line?”WHERE ARE THE TURNOVERSCarolina’s defense has thrived on takeaways over the years, but they have been struggling in that area of late. The Panthers haven’t forced a turnover in the three games since they last played the Buccaneers. In that game they intercepted Ryan Fitzpatrick twice.EVANS VS. BRADBERRYIn the last meeting, Carolina cornerback James Bradberry put the clamps on Bucs receiver Mike Evans, holding Tampa Bay’s top receiver to one catch for 16 yards on 10 targets in a 42-28 victory at home.However, Bradberry has struggled in three games since giving up big plays in each of those games in losses to Pittsburgh, Detroit and Seattle.Bradberry is expected to draw Evans again.“They game-planned really well,” Evans said. “Even though they’re a one-high team, it felt like Eric Reid was just coming to me no matter what. And then Bradberry was underneath just pressing. So, I’ve got to be better, more physical, faster and stronger, and I think I will be this time around.” The Panthers have several needs and there are still some good free agents out there for them to sign."WhiteFanposts Fanshots Sections Keep Sounding PodcastPanthers 2019 NFL DraftCSR Film RoomCarolina Panthers free agency 2019Top free agents remaining at positions of need for the Carolina PanthersNew,109commentsThe Panthers have several needs and there are still some good free agents out there for them to sign.EDTShareTweetShareShareTop free agents remaining at positions of need for the Carolina PanthersAs of this writing, the Carolina Panthers have $15.7 million in cap space to sign free agents. That puts them in the bottom 10 teams (there are only seven teams with less cap space than the Panthers right now) and will probably make it difficult for them to add any quality free agents to the roster.While the Panthers aren’t expected to go on a huge shopping spree during free agency, there are still some good players out there who could be in Carolina’s price range. SB Nation has put together a ranking of the Top 103 free agents for fans to see who’s available to be signed, so let’s dive into it and see who’s available at some of Carolina’s positions of need.I’ve excluded any free agents who have already signed contracts, since the Panthers wouldn’t be able to sign them anyway.Offensive tackleThere are only two free agents remaining in SB Nation’s Top 103 list. One of them is a familiar face to Panthers fans.Best free agents remainingDaryl Williams (No. 12 overall) — UFA, 26 years oldGeorge Fant (No. 99 overall) — RFA, 26 years oldGiven how much money offensive tackles are getting in today’s NFL, the Panthers are probably not going to be able to afford either one of the two remaining free agents on the list. They’re either going to have to shop in the bargain bin, or use one of their draft picks to get someone to protect Cam Newton’s blind side. The Panthers and Williams have reportedly been too far apart during contract talks for us to expect him to stay in Carolina, so there’s a good chance the Panthers stay away from the left tackle aisle in free agency this year. That might be a good thing, because the last time they spent big money on a left tackle it went so well that we’re still happy about it to this day.Defensive endThis is where the Panthers could really make an impact. There are plenty of quality guys left to choose from.Best free agents remainingEzekiel Ansah (No. 20 overall) — UFA, 29 years oldAlex Okafor (No. 34 overall) — UFA Youth Christian McCaffrey Jersey , 28 years oldBruce Irvin (No. 48 overall) — UFA, 31 years oldMuhammad Wilkerson (No. 56 overall) — UFA, 29 years oldCameron Wake (No. 61 overall) — UFA, 37 years oldAllen Bailey (No. 63 overall) — UFA, 29 years oldMichael Johnson (No. 69 overall) — UFA, 32 years oldShane Ray (No. 103 overall) — UFA, 25 years oldThe Panthers should absolutely check in on Shane Ray to see if he’s affordable and willing to play in Carolina. He’s a versatile outside linebacker/defensive end who would fit well in Ron Rivera’s new ‘hybrid defense’ that is reportedly coming in 2019. The Panthers desperately need a pass rush, and I don’t know about anyone else but I’m not really concerned with how they get it. Whether it’s an outside linebacker in a 3-4 or a defensive end in a 4-3 doesn’t matter to me. If the Panthers bring in a player who can put pressure on the quarterback, I’m all for it.CenterThe Panthers need to replace the retiring Ryan Kalil and could do so in free agency if they choose to use their draft picks on other positions of need.Best free agents remainingMatt Paradis (No. 16 overall) — UFA, 29 years oldJohn Sullivan (No. 83 overall) — UFA, 33 years oldNick Easton (No. 84 overall) — UFA, 26 years oldGarrett Bradbury is the best center prospect in this year’s draft class, but I’m not sure he’s worth taking No. 16 overall and I don’t think he’ll still be available by the time the Panthers are on the clock in the second round. I think the Panthers would be better served taking a look at either Easton or Paradis to see if they can be had for an affordable deal. GuardThe Panthers should probably look for at least one guard in either the draft or free agency. Greg Van Roten and Tyler Larsen are good, but they’re not great. The Panthers could also use some depth on the interior. Best free agents remainingRodger Saffold (No. 36 overall) — UFA, 30 years oldRamon Foster (No. 42 overall) — UFA, 33 years oldAndy Levitre (No. 46 overall) — UFA, 32 years oldMike Iupati (No. 55 overall) — UFA, 31 years oldJames Carpenter (No. 68 overall) — UFA, 29 years oldBilly Turner (No. 93 overall) — UFA, 27 years oldThere are several names on this list to choose from, but I would lean towards the bottom half just based on the cost:value ratio. The Panthers can’t afford to tie up all their available cap space into a guard, but if they can find the right deal it wouldn’t hurt to add one to the roster for depth.Wide receiverThe Panthers only have four receivers on the roster who are projected to make the 53-man roster. Devin Funchess is leaving via free agency after signing a one-year deal with the Colts, so the Panthers will need to add at least one player to the wide receiver room. There’s a chance they’ll just draft someone on Day 2 or Day 3 of the draft, but there are a few decent options available in free agency if they wanted to go that route.Best free agents remainingGolden Tate (No. 27 overall) — UFA Christian McCaffrey Men Jersey , 30 years oldRandall Cobb (No. 67 overall) — UFA, 28 years oldCole Beasley (No. 76 overall) — UFA, 29 years oldTyrell Williams (No. 86 overall) — UFA, 27 years oldCordarrelle Patterson (No. 91 overall) — UFA, 27 years oldI don’t know if any of these guys are worth signing other than Tate and Cobb, and they’re probably too expensive for the Panthers. I suppose they could sign Beasley or Williams, but if they’re going to sign Beasley I’d rather them just bring Brenton Bersin back to be honest. Patterson wouldn’t be a bad signing, but I don’t think the Panthers would bring him in. The Patriots will probably keep him anyway.Free safetyUnfortunately there’s only one name on the Top 103 list and he’s going to be so far out of the Panthers’ price range that it’s really pointless for me to even mention it, but I’m sure someone would complain if I didn’t.Best free agents remainingEarl Thomas (No. 6 overall) — UFA, 29 years oldTre Boston (Not ranked) — UFA, 26 years oldHa Ha Clinton-Dix (Not ranked) — UFA, 26 years oldThe Panthers can’t afford Thomas unless they offload some of their current players to make cap space, but doing that creates even more holes than they already had. Thomas has said he wants at least a two-year deal worth at least $14 million per year to sign anywhere, and while he’s an amazing talent and one of the best free safeties in the league he’s simply out of Marty Hurney’s price range. While he’s the only one left on SBN’s Top 103 list, Thomas isn’t the only free safety available. Tre Boston and Ha Ha Clinton Dix are two other names the Panthers could consider to pair with Eric Reid.Clinton-Dix is a free agent after spending last year in Washington. He was drafted by Green Bay in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft and played his first four years there, but was traded to Washington in October 2018. Washington signed Landon Collins to a massive six-year, $84 million contract yesterday, so there’s a good chance they’re going to let Clinton-Dix go in free agency. He’s a player the Panthers should probably keep an eye on since he can probably be had for a relatively cheap deal.Boston isn’t the best free safety in the league, but he’s better than anything else the Panthers currently have on their roster and he’ll probably be affordable since he signed a one-year, $1.5 million deal with the Cardinals last year. That’s the kind of shopping Hurney has to do if he’s going to use free agency to fill holes on this roster. If the Panthers are not willing to go after Boston but want to get a free safety, they’re probably going to have to grab one in the draft.Which free agents would you like to sign, Panthers fans? Let’s hear what you have to say!

Mathis has to be one of the first two or three names you mention in a series like this."WhiteFanposts Fanshots Library FalcFans Podcast on The FalcoholicContact The FalcoholicFalcons StoriesScheduleRosterStatsYahoo Falcons NewsYahoo Falcons Team PageYahoo Falcons ReportYahoo Falcons Depth ChartYahoo Falcons TransactionsYahoo Falcons PhotosOdds About Masthead Community Guidelines StubHub 鉁旴est Falcons free agents ever: Terance Mathis New Youth Austin Hooper Jersey ,3commentsMathis has to be one of the first two or three names you mention in a series like this. ESTShareTweetShareShareBest Falcons free agents ever: Terance Mathis Welcome to another offseason series, this one a warm-up for free agency. Here, we’ll look at the best—and eventually the worst—Falcons free agents ever signed. We kick things off with a Falcoholic favorite, Terance Mathis.Years with Falcons: 1994-2001Stats: 573 receptions, 7,349 yards, 12.8 yards per reception, 57 touchdown receptions Earlier this week, Evan Birchfield looked back fondly on Terance Mathis’ career in Atlanta. Today, I’m going to do the same with a bit of a spin, which is talking about why he was one of the best free agents the Falcons ever signed.With the advantage of hindsight, it seems obvious that the New York Jets had no idea what they had with Terance Mathis.That’s why after four years with the Jets, where he put up 93 receptions for 1,242 yards and four touchdowns, Mathis found himself launching into free agency. The Falcons were looking to add talent at wide receiver with stud Andre Rison in the fold and June Jones in charge of the team, and they would end up signing Mathis to a multi-year deal and adding rookie Bert Emanuel to the corps. Both turned out to be incredibly savvy moves—Emanuel managed 260 receptions, 3600 yards, and 24 touchdowns in just four seasons in Atlanta—but Mathis would end up going down as one of the greatest receivers ever to play for the franchise.I doubt the Falcons had their sights set that high when they got him, but in retrospect Mathis’ skills made him a great fit even after June Jones was long gone. He was speedy, offered refined route running, and had good enough hands to make him a force as a volume receiver. Mathis was the trusted option for a series of Falcons quarterbacks from Jeff George to Chris Chandler, drawing more than 100 targets every single year he was in Atlanta. That began in 1994, when the former Jets sixth-round pick exploded for 111 receptions, 1,342 yards, and 11 touchdowns, arguably the finest year of his entire career. He followed that up with 78/1,039/9 in 1995, 69/771/7 in 1996, 62/802/6 in 1997, and a huge 64/1 Stitched Deion Jones Jersey ,136/11 to help propel the Falcons to the Super Bowl in 1998. His last three years in Atlanta weren’t as spectacular, but he still managed 81/1,016/6 in 1999, 57/679/5 in 2000, and 51/564/2 in 2001, getting the opportunity to play with rookie Michael Vick for a short time. Mathis played one more year with the Steelers, one of the quietest of his career, and then retired. When he retired, he held the Falcons franchise records for targets, receptions, receiving yardage and touchdowns. While he was eventually surpassed by Roddy White and has been or will be surpassed by Julio Jones, he’s still one of the best receivers ever to suit up for the Falcons, and one of the best free agent signings this team has ever managed. How does the NFL Combine change things for the Falcons in the 2019 NFL Draft? We take a closer look with our first post-Combine 7-round mock draft."WhiteFanposts Fanshots Library FalcFans Podcast on The FalcoholicContact The FalcoholicFalcons StoriesScheduleRosterStatsYahoo Falcons NewsYahoo Falcons Team PageYahoo Falcons ReportYahoo Falcons Depth ChartYahoo Falcons TransactionsYahoo Falcons PhotosOdds About Masthead Community Guidelines StubHub 鉁旻alcons NFL Draft 20192019 NFL Combine CoverageFalcons 7-Round Mock Draft: Fifth EditionNew,152commentsHow does the NFL Combine change things for the Falcons in the 2019 NFL Draft? We take a closer look with our first post-Combine 7-round mock draft.ESTShareTweetShareShareFalcons 7-Round Mock Draft: Fifth EditionChuck Cook-USA TODAY SportsThe 2019 NFL Combine has come and gone. We’ve seen some outstanding performances and some very disappointing ones, and also heard some very interesting rumors about where certain teams might be going with their early picks—the Kyler Murray to Arizona noise is particularly silly, in my opinion.How does the Combine change things for the Falcons’ draft plans? The answer is...it doesn’t really. Truthfully, most teams have their boards pretty much set before the Combine even happens. The athletic testing isn’t as important as some think—meanwhile, the interviews and medical testing are probably more important than many fans realize.Still, it tends to move around the stock of players—particularly in the later rounds of the draft. For this mock draft, I used The Draft Network’s new “Mock Draft Machine”. For those that enjoy this sort of thing, I’d highly recommend it. Personally, I feel their predictive board is a lot more accurate than anything on Fanspeak.Let’s jump right in!Round 1, Pick 14: DT Ed Oliver, HoustonEd Oliver may have elevated his stock with an exceptional day at the Combine, but there’s still a non-zero chance of him lasting until pick 14. The Combine doesn’t move the needle for NFL teams as much as it does for fans, and the size/scheme concerns that worried some teams probably haven’t totally dissipated. If Oliver makes it past Buffalo (who might be enamored with an equally impressive tester in WR D.K. Metcalf), he is probably falling to the Falcons. I wrote a full scouting report on Oliver, and here’s how I described his skillset:Round 2, Pick 45: C/G Erik McCoy, Texas A&MOne of my favorite Day 2 OL prospects, Texas A&M’s Erik McCoy elevated his stock in a big way with a tremendous showing at the Combine. He fits the profile of a Falcons’ offensive lineman perfectly Youth Deion Jones Jersey , and one of his closest athletic comps (according to Mockdraftable) is ex-Falcons G Chris Chester. He would be in line to start immediately at either guard spot, and his experience at center could eventually make him the long-term replacement for Alex Mack. Here’s how I described McCoy’s skillset in a previous mock draft:Round 3, Pick 79: EDGE Zach Allen, Boston CollegeWith the Falcons bringing back Vic Beasley for 2019, it’s clear that the team doesn’t view EDGE as their biggest need this offseason. Still, going into the season without adding anyone else to the rotation would be downright foolish, as the depth chart right now consists only of Beasley, Takk, and Steven Means. Enter Boston College’s Zach Allen—an inside-outside hybrid player that can take on a similar role to Adrian Clayborn in Quinn’s defense. I talked about Allen in my EDGE prospect preview, and here’s how I described his talents:Round 4, Pick 117: OT Tytus Howard, Alabama StateThe Falcons allegedly view Ty Sambrailo as a “starter”, according to Dan Quinn, but I think we all know the truth: Sambrailo is a stopgap option at best, and is meant to be a bridge to a young draft pick. If the Falcons elect to wait on OT until late Day 2 or early Day 3, Alabama State’s Tytus Howard could be a perfect fit. I doubt he’ll last this long in the real draft—in this scenario, I’d definitely consider a trade-up into the late third round. I mentioned Howard in my OT prospect preview—here’s a quick write-up on his skillset:Round 4, Pick 137: CB Isaiah Johnson, HoustonIf Houston CB Isaiah Johnson is still around this late, the Falcons need to snatch him up. Johnson’s tape is littered with inconsistencies and he’s far from a finished product, but he put on a show at the Combine and has elite traits for the position. The Falcons can afford to develop Johnson before throwing him into the fire, making this a very high-upside pick on Day 3. Here’s how I described Johnson’s skills in my CB prospect preview:Round 5, Pick 152: RB Myles Gaskin, WashingtonWith my favorite RB for the Falcons—Justice Hill—seeing his stock explode after an impressive Combine performance, the Falcons will have to look elsewhere for a RB at this point in the draft. Washington RB Myles Gaskin is another option who is likely to be around this late, and while he isn’t quite as athletic as Hill, he’s got plenty of upside and proven production. I talked about Gaskin’s talents in my RB prospect preview:Round 5, Pick 172: TE Foster Moreau, LSULSU’s Foster Moreau turned a lot of heads at the Combine with his impressive workouts. I knew he had some juice to him, but he was never utilized much as a receiver and the general consensus among a lot of draft analysts was that he didn’t have much upside in the passing game. Well, even if he needs a lot of work Stitched Keanu Neal Jersey , the athleticism is clearly there for Moreau to be more than just a quality blocker. At this point in the draft, Moreau is a good value for Atlanta to find a cheap, high-upside replacement for veteran Logan Paulsen. Here’s how I described Moreau’s talents in my TE prospect preview:Round 6, Pick 186: WR Cody Thompson, ToledoThis WR class is insanely deep, and with the Falcons missing out on some of my favorite targets in Jakobi Meyers, Terry Godwin, and Mecole Hardman, I had to look a little harder to find a great fit. Luckily, Toledo’s Cody Thompson ended up falling—as some receivers are going to do, due to the sheer volume of quality players in this class. I like Thompson as a future WR3 that can contribute in a lot of ways on the field. At only a sixth round price tag, that’s darn good value. I mentioned Thompson in my WR prospect preview, and here’s how I talked about his skillset:Round 7, Pick 230: S Will Harris, Boston CollegeI was really hoping to pick up LB Terrill Hanks or CB Jimmy Moreland with this final pick, but both went just a few spots ahead of the Falcons. So instead, Atlanta targets depth at another position with the addition of S Will Harris. He’s a reliable, versatile backup that can do a lot for you early in his career. Harris has an excellent shot at making the roster as the fifth safety—particularly if Kazee is being moved to CB full-time. Here’s how I described Harris’ talents in my S prospect preview:AnalysisIn this mock draft, the Falcons address all of their major needs, just not necessarily in the most logical order. Ed Oliver still being available at 14—it’s more possible than many fans want to admit—kind of throws a wrench into things. It’s clear that DT isn’t the biggest need in Atlanta, but Oliver is simply too good of a talent to pass up. In the second round, the Falcons add one of the most athletic offensive linemen in the draft in C/G Erik McCoy to bolster the other side of the trenches.In the third, the Falcons finally address EDGE with an “Adrian Clayborn-like” player in Zach Allen. With their two fourth round picks, Atlanta begins to address depth across the roster with the developmental players OT Tytus Howard and CB Isaiah Johnson. Both fit the prototype the Falcons are looking for, but both need time and coaching before they’re ready for prime time. The two fifth rounders go to addressing free agent departures, with RB Myles Gaskin filling the void left by Tevin Coleman and TE Foster Moreau taking over for Logan Paulsen.Atlanta uses their sixth rounder on what I view to be an absolute steal in WR Cody Thompson, who has legit WR3 upside and can factor into the competition at returner. Finally, the Falcons select S Will Harris to help fill out the depth chart at safety and add another quality special teams contributor.What are your thoughts on this potential draft class for the Falcons? Who are some players you’d love to see wind up in Atlanta? In what order would you address the team’s needs?

NASHVILLE Womens Marcus Mariota Jersey , Tenn. (AP) — Marcus Mariota and the Tennessee Titans finally are starting to show signs that some of their growing pains of learning a new offense may be easing.The quarterback had to learn his third new scheme going into his fourth NFL season. The Titans are leaning on a lot of young receivers and coordinator Matt LaFleur’s experience calling plays grows with each game. The changes, along with the loss of three-time Pro Bowl tight end Delanie Walker in the opener, led to some early struggles on offense.Now Mariota is feeling comfortable enough with the offense and LaFleur to speak up when the game plan features something he doesn’t like.“I just feel as though I’ve gotten a better understanding of the offense, why we’re calling certain things,” Mariota said Wednesday. “Maybe why he wants a particular play against certain coverage, so having that understanding I think has allowed me to have confidence in going in and saying, ‘Hey, maybe I don’t really like that. I’m not feeling that.'”Mariota said previously he might not have known how a play would look or work on the field.“Having confidence in it, being in the offense a little longer has definitely helped that Quinton Spain Jersey White ,” Mariota said.The results might not show up in NFL rankings with the Titans (5-4) 30th in total offense and 18th averaging 18.7 points a game.The offensive turnaround started Oct. 21 in London in a 20-19 loss to the Chargers and includes a 28-14 win in Dallas and last weekend’s 34-10 rout of the Patriots. In those three games, the Titans have converted 61 percent (25 of 41) of their third downs, which is best in the NFL in that span.Mariota has posted his best passer ratings of the season in each of the past two games, and he has 542 total yards passing, running and catching with five touchdowns. His lone interception in the three-game stretch came in the second quarter against the ChargersCorey Davis finished with seven catches for 125 yards against Dallas, his second 100-yard receiving game this season. Tight end Jonnu Smith had a career-high 45 yards receiving on three catches with a TD. Even rookie Cameron Batson, who spent three weeks on the practice squad earlier this season, has had four catches for 47 yards over the past two games.Running back Dion Lewis believes everyone has gotten comfortable with each other.“It’s a lot of bumps in the road when you’re learning,” Lewis said. “You make a mistake http://www.thetitanslockerroom.com/authentic-tajae-sharpe-jersey , and you try not to make the same mistake again. I think that’s what everybody’s trying to do knowing what the coaches expect from them. And if they messed up something in the past, just move on forward and not make that same mistake. I think if guys do that, we can keep building on that as an offense and keep getting better.”The results are easy to see with the Titans, who went through an eight-quarter drought without scoring a touchdown during a three-game skid in October. They followed up a season-high 28 points in Dallas with the best first quarter (17) and first half (24) of scoring since Nov. 13, 2016, against Green Bay.The Titans are 13th in the NFL holding the ball 30 minutes, 30 seconds per game. They’re also 10th converting third downs, and they’ll test their comfort level Sunday when they visit the Colts (4-5) in a key AFC South game.“We’ve done a good job on third downs, definitely done a whole lot better in the red zone being able to score touchdowns Corey Davis Jersey White ,” Mariota said. “If we can continue that, I think we got a chance to be pretty good.”Notes: LB Wesley Woodyard was named the AFC defensive player of the week after 1 ½ sacks against the Patriots. … LB Derrick Morgan (shoulder) and RT Jack Conklin (concussion protocol) were limited Wednesday at practice along with S Dane Cruikshank (knee). LG Quinton Spain (ankle), WR Taywan Taylor (left foot), G/C Corey Levin (illness) and RB David Fluellen (knee) did not practice. The Titans got some welcome news Thursday when quarterback Marcus Mariota returned to practice.Mariota was working with no tape on his hand and no noticeable discomfort as he threw passes at the start of practice, Erik Bacharach of reports.Mariota missed Wednesday’s practice for treatment and rest.He left Saturday’s victory over Washington after 27 snaps because of a stinger. Blaine Gabbert finished up the final 29 snaps.Various injuries have kept Mariota on the injury report much of the season and on the sideline some. He has played 82.7 percent of the team’s offensive snaps, missing one game and parts of four others.The Titans also got linebacker Brian Orakpo back on the practice field. Orakpo has missed the past two games with an elbow injury.The team’s injury report later today will indicate how much Mariota and Orakpo practiced, but they at least are getting limited work in.

Jermaine Kearse spent his first five seasons in the NFL with the Seattle Seahawks and would love the chance to return to his hometown team should the opportunity present itself.In a discussion with former teammates Doug Baldwin and Cliff Avril on Sports Radio 950 KJR http://www.seahawkslockerroom.com/authentic-jarran-reed-jersey , Kearse said he would definitely be open to the chance to return to the Seahawks should such a chance arise.“Yeah. Look, I would love to play back in Seattle,” Kearse said. “Obviously things have to work out in its own and things have to be right. It would be an opportunity that would be a great opportunity.”Kearse grew up outside of Seattle in Lakewood, Wash. and attended the University of Washington. His wife is also from the Seattle area and a return to the Seahawks would be a return home for the entire family.Additionally, the Seahawks appear to be in the market for help at wide receiver. The team hosted former Oakland Raiders and Green Bay Packers receiver Jordy Nelson on a free agent visit this week. Outside of top targets Doug Baldwin and Tyler Lockett, the duo of Jaron Brown and David Moore combined for just seven receptions in Seattle’s five games last season.Baldwin and Avril discussed taking up a petition with the team in supporting Kearse’s return.“It’s already started. I’m the first one (to sign),” Baldwin said.Kearse said he has not spoken to anyone from the Seahawks yet at this point. However, Kearse and head coach Pete Carroll are represented by the same agent, Gary Uberstine, so finding a line of communication shouldn’t be a tough task.“I have not personally talked to John or Pete,” Kearse said. “I know my agent has really close ties with Pete so I’m pretty sure they’ve spoke here and there.”Kearse played in 69 regular season games for Seattle over five seasons after signings with the team as an undrafted free agent in 2012. He caught 153 passes for 2,109 yards and 11 touchdowns. However, Kearse added 31 receptions for 493 yards and six touchdowns in 12 career playoff games for Seattle as well.The Seahawks traded Kearse to the New York Jets prior to the start of the 2017 season in a deal that brought defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson to Seattle.Kearse had his best statistical season with the Jets in 2017 Mychal Kendricks Jersey Green , recording 65 receptions for 810 yards and five touchdowns. All three marks were career-highs. The last time the Los Angeles Rams visited Seattle, they were announcing themselves as the new powerhouse in the NFC West by handing the Seahawks a drubbing unlike any they had experienced in Pete Carroll's tenure.As much as the Seahawks would like to forget that day last December, a 42-7 loss to a division rival lingers.Less than a year later, the Rams are more than just the favorites of their division. A quarter through the season, they may be the prohibitive Super Bowl favorites. The Rams (4-0) make their annual trip to Seattle on Sunday looking to take control of the division just five weeks into the season."I think there's definitely a lot of confidence that comes with playing well and definitely can get some momentum going, but I think we're just executing," Rams quarterback Jared Goff said. "We've done a pretty good job executing."And there is little reason not to believe Los Angeles will be leaving town with a three-game lead.The Rams are scoring an absurd amount of points, having scored at least 33 points in all four games. Goff is coming off a career-high 465 yards passing and five TDs, carving up a Minnesota defense that was regarded as among the best in the NFL and posting a perfect passer rating in the process. Cooper Kupp, Robert Woods and Brandin Cooks each had 100 yards receiving against the Vikings.Oh, and there's still Todd Gurley, who the last time he saw the Seahawks rushed for 152 yards and scored a career-high four total touchdowns. And this time, they'll be facing a Seahawks defense without safety Earl Thomas after suffering a season-ending lower leg fracture last week against Arizona."Not having Earl now Steve Largent Jersey , this week changes a lot and just how good he is at understanding offenses and concepts," Goff said. "You wish he was there, you want to get them at full strength with him as part of that and how good he is. Would have been great to compete against him."The Seahawks (2-2) have recovered from a 0-2 start by knocking off Dallas and Arizona in consecutive weeks. The Seahawks have rediscovered their run game with consecutive 100-yard rushers and their defense has held three straight opponents to under 305 total yards of offense.But they know the Rams are a different challenge."They're going to do something that we haven't seen before, but if we're disciplined and we do what we practiced, we should be fine," Seattle linebacker Bobby Wagner said. "That's why your eyes are so important this week."Here's what else to watch for:FIRST THINGS FIRSTSlowing the Rams' powerhouse offense on first down would be huge for the Seahawks, but it's been almost impossible this season. Goff is an astonishing 46 of 56 for 668 yards and six touchdown passes on first downs in the Rams' first four games, averaging 11.9 yards per pass. Add in Gurley's steady running on every down, and Los Angeles is tough to contain."We've done a pretty good job so far (of) staying in second-and-manageable, and then third-and-manageable, as well," Goff said.RUNNING OPTIONSSeattle is coming off consecutive 100-yard performances by running backs for the first time since the 2014 season. But it was two different backs accomplishing that feat, leaving open the question of how Seattle divides the carries going forward. Starter Chris Carson is expected to return Sunday after missing last week with a hip injury. Mike Davis has earned a role after rushing for a career-high 101 yards and two TDs in the win over Arizona. And Nick Vannett Jersey , rookie first-round pick Rashaad Penny has started to look more like the back Seattle expected in a limited role.Running won't be easy against a Rams defense giving up just 86 yards per game on average.TEDRIC TIMESecond-year safety Tedric Thompson knows he's about to get a lot of attention. Thompson will be stepping in at free safety replacing Thomas after the former All-Pro was lost for the season in last week's win. Thompson gained plenty of experience in the offseason and training camp when Thomas was holding out as part of a contract dispute, but there couldn't be a tougher team to debut against than the top passing offense in the NFL through four weeks."He's really mature about stuff, he's really worked hard to understand the scheme and the principles of what we want and he plays really strict and disciplined football," Carroll said.TEMPORARY KICKERKicker Cairo Santos will make his Rams debut in Seattle. Los Angeles signed the former Chiefs kicker Tuesday after cutting Sam Ficken and determining that All-Pro Greg Zuerlein isn't quite ready to return from a groin injury.Santos, who injured his own groin twice last season, is getting his shot at an NFL return in a high-pressure rivalry game, but he welcomes the challenge."Coming out and playing for a great offense, hopefully I'll get a bunch of kicks and show the other 31 teams that I'm back and I belong in this league," Santos said.

The Steelers didn’t look good against the Bengals on Sunday A.J. Green Jersey , but they needed a win more than they聽needed to look pretty.They got that win when kicker Matt McCrane made his third field goal of the day with two minutes left in the game. The kick made the score 16-13 and the Steelers defense came up with the stop they needed to end the season with a 9-6-1 record.Winning alone wasn’t enough to send the Steelers to the playoffs as they needed either a Ravens loss to the Browns or a tie in Sunday night’s game between the Titans and Colts to push them to the postseason. Players remained in a packed Heinz Field to watch the final minutes of the game in Baltimore and root for their divisional rivals from Cleveland.Their wish did not come true. The Ravens held on and the Steelers are now clinging to the slimmest of playoff threads.The Steelers were shut out for the entire first half until McCrane, who was signed this week when Chris Boswell went on injured reserve, hit a field goal at the whistle to put them in the locker room down 10-3. Ben Roethlisberger threw an interception that Shaun Williams took back for the Bengals’ only touchdown of the game, but bounced back to hit JuJu Smith-Schuster for a touchdown in the second half.Roethlisberger went over 5,000 yards for the season while going 31-of-45 for 287 yards. The Steelers offense appeared to miss wide receiver Antonio Brown, who sat with a knee injury, but they were able to just enough to back up an outstanding defensive performance.It wasn’t enough, though, and four losses in the five previous games proved to be too much for the Steelers to overcome. CINCINNATI (AP) — Bengals coach Marvin Lewis shut down the question immediately Michael Jordan Cincinnati Bengals Jersey , making it clear he won’t be talking about the latest addition to his staff — one who’s in an unusual position to influence the next game.Only last month, Hue Jackson was Cleveland’s head coach, intimately involved in the Browns‘ game planning. Now he’s on the Bengals sideline with Lewis, trying to beat the Browns — a sensitive subject that the head coach is trying to put off limits.“I think I’ve answered enough Hue questions, OK?” Lewis said Wednesday with an edge to his tone. “We’re done. We’re over.”Oh, no. The intrigue is just getting started.The Bengals (5-5) desperately need to beat the Browns (3-6-1) at Paul Brown Stadium to remain relevant in the playoff chase. They’ve lost four of five , fired their defensive coordinator and installed Lewis as leader of a historically bad unit.As part of the shuffle, he brought back a close friend at an opportune time.Jackson was fired by the Browns on Oct. 29 after winning only three games in three seasons. Lewis brought him back to Cincinnati for the third time , creating a role of special assistant. Jackson helps develop the weekly game plan on defense and provides tips on the sideline during games.His input will be especially useful this week. Jackson knows the Browns’ tendencies and the players’ strengths and weaknesses.“That was very unique Michael Jordan Jersey 2019 ,” defensive end Carlos Dunlap said. “He knows the players, he knows the staff. They just got a new (offensive coordinator), so they’re probably calling things differently than when (Jackson) left. So you have your advantages there.”It’s not unusual for a team to pick up a player who was released by an upcoming opponent, but it’s highly unusual to get the other team’s former head coach.One more unique feature to this intrastate matchup: Both head coaches will be calling the defensive plays. Defensive coordinator Gregg Williams was elevated to interim coach after Jackson was fired. Lewis took over the defensive coordinator duties after Teryl Austin was fired on Nov. 12.“It brings a smile to my face,” Williams said Wednesday during a conference call. “It’s kind of unique.”It’s challenging to analyze what the opposing offense is doing and adjust defensively while also running the overall game. That’s where Jackson’s presence could be especially helpful on Sunday.The Browns are coming off a bye week that gave them a chance to add a few things that Jackson won’t anticipate.“He’s not there (in Cleveland) anymore, so they could have changed a lot of those things,” Dunlap said. “So you don’t want to get caught guessing. But it’s good to know what they like to do and what they’re built and set up for, so it’s great to have that understanding.”Jackson jogged off the practice field on Wednesday and declined to stop and talk about his reunion with Cleveland, referring questions to the closed-lipped Lewis.A.J. GETTING CLOSERReceiver A.J. Green could return against Cleveland. He’s missed the past two games with an injured toe on his right foot Color Rush Michael Jordan Jersey , and the offense struggled in losses to the Saints and Ravens . Green didn’t practice Wednesday, but Lewis said he will work out the rest of the week, aiming to be ready by Sunday.Left tackle Cordy Glenn (back) and cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick (shoulder) also missed practice. Defensive end Michael Johnson (calf) and safety Shawn Williams (hamstring) were limited.BROWN’S DISAPPOINTMENTThe Bengals figured they’d upgraded their linebacker group when they signed durable Preston Brown from Buffalo in the offseason. He was limited by a right ankle injury that he suffered the first game, and he injured his right knee during a 51-14 loss to the Saints. The Bengals put him on injured reserve Tuesday and signed defensive end/linebacker Kasim Edebali, a college free agent who has played with the Saints, Broncos, Lions and Rams. Lewis said Brown might have surgery on his ankle now that he can’t return this season.

This past offseason Womens Tarvarius Moore Jersey , the Seahawks decided to release franchise corner Richard Sherman, due to salary cap issues, a high cap number for Sherman, and of course his Achilles injury. With a lack of veteran leadership in the 49ers’ locker room, general manager John Lynch brought in Sherman to become a leading voice with the younger players. San Francisco signed Sherman to a three-year, incentive-laden deal that’s proving to be worth every penny for his on and off-field contributions. Returning from a torn Achilles, Sherman played in 14 games, racking up four passes defensed Dante Pettis Jersey , 37 combined tackles and a recovered fumble. Pro Football Focus rated the former Stanford defensive back with a 68.9 grade. Half-way through the season, PFF also added a stat that Sherman was only allowing a reception every 146 snaps. While his on-field dominance continued this season, his off-field patience and leadership was tested amidst a 4-12 season that featured a turnstile at the cornerback position opposite to Sherman. The ex-Seahawk decided to write a post a on his blog once the 49ers’ season ended, commenting on 2018.Sherman’s leadership was highlighted in a 14-9 loss to Chicago in the home stretch of the season. Chicago and San Francisco got into a skirmish on the Bears’ sideline, with Sherman coming to his teammates’ defense. As a result, the 49ers’ veteran corner was ejected from the game. Shanahan praised Sherman for his actions against Chicago, despite the ejection in a close game.With the likes of young defensive backs Ahkello Witherspoon and Tarvarius Moore playing opposite to Sherman, they couldn’t have a better mentor to look up to all season long. The 49ers’ youngest position group is their defensive backfield and having Sherman lead that group in 2019 should alleviate Shanahan’s concerns. Wednesday http://www.49erslockerroom.com/authentic-tevin-coleman-jersey , April 16th, 2019 edition of the Golden Nuggets, a daily compilation of San Francisco 49ers links from the Internet"The #2 pick that the San Francisco 49ers currently possess is likely to be used on a defensive player or depending on the #1 pick could be traded for multiple picks. But one thing is clear, the 49ers will be drafting a receiver in this draft and it will probably be in an earlier round. This week the 49ers are hosting some of the top talent at the position for pre-draft visits.Hakeem Butler, N’Keal Harry, AJ Brown, and Deebo Samuel either already visited with the team this week or are scheduled to visit. The team has had a rough go for years on selecting receivers in the draft. The receivers they have drafted had various degrees of success, but none have been great. They are consistently looking for their #1 receiver through the draft and free agency Joe Montana Jersey White , but they have not been able to fill that void. In last year’s draft, the 49ers selected Dante Pettis and while he dealt with injuries, he did perform well down the stretch. They are hoping he can stay healthy and continue to progress this season. They would like to add another WR to pair with Jimmy Garoppolo and Pettis to take their passing attack to another level. Jerry Rice is the greatest WR in NFL history and he is the gold standard for 49ers receivers. One draft visitor decided to give the infamous hill that Jerry Rice and Roger Craig used to run up a try with Jerry. AJ Brown, WR from Ole Miss, tackled the famous hill yesterday. AJ is one of the top WRs in the upcoming draft and if he is taken by the 49ers, he can run the hill as often as he would like. 49ers linksLooking at the DEs (Inman)The market keeps going up and up | The QB market (Florio)Roster moves (Madson)Looking for the next great 49ers WR | A couple of receivers coming to visit (Alper)Hakeem Butler visits (Madson)#2 pick trade market (Fann)Potential pick works out with the GOAT (Madson)He decided to run the infamous hill | AJ Brown runs with Jerry Rice (Almquist)Who will the 49ers end up drafting? | Visiting receivers (Branch)Running the hill (Maiocco)Hakeem Butler (Maiocco)AJ Brown, Deebo Samuel (Maiocco)N’Keal Harry visits (Alper)Greg Mabin coming back (Williams)Could happen with the #2 pick depending on what happens with the #1 pick | Draft day trades (Biderman)

Buccaneers 48 Chandler Catanzaro Jersey , Saints 40: Immediate Reactions With the Buccaneers coming into Sunday’s season opener as nearly double-digit underdogs, expectations obviously weren’t all that high. They were without their starting quarterback on the road against the defending NFC South champion Saints. The defense still had a ton of question marks. To add to that, veteran cornerback Brent Grimes was a late addition to the injury report. Tampa Bay had no chance.But then the game started and the Bucs looked better than they have in years. The offense fired on all cylinders and the defense did just enough to help Tampa Bay to a 48-40 victory. The team is now 3-0 in season openers under Dirk Koetter. Let’s get to some reactions from the season-opening win!Observations and Reactions— GeneralThe Bucs’ 31 first-half points tied a franchise record. The offense (which we’ll get to in full shortly) put up 24 and the defense added a touchdown of its own. But it didn’t end there, as they continued to roll in the second half. By the end of the day, they had tied their record for points in a single game with 48. The last time Tampa Bay put up 48 points was in its Super Bowl win on Jan. 26, 2003.Tampa Bay dismantled New Orleans completely, which won the division last year and came one play away from the NFC Championship Game. The Bucs quickly proved that they aren’t going to be an easy team to beat, even without starting quarterback Jameis Winston for the first three games. Injury-wise, the Bucs were pretty unlucky throughout the day. Vernon Hargreaves left with a shoulder injury, DeSean Jackson left with a concussion and Justin Evans got shaken up at one point.As far as penalties are concerned, Tampa Bay will have to clean some things up. It was flagged seven times for 70 yards. The victory makes that look like less of an issue, but it still isn’t ideal.Observations and Reactions— OffenseOffensively, the Bucs looked more explosive than they’ve been since 2015. They averaged 8.5 yards per play, totaled 529 yards and scored on their first five drives (not including the short possession at the end of the first half).That explosiveness came under the watch of offensive coordinator Todd Monken, who took care of play-calling for the first time in a regular season game. There was a noticeable difference in the way the game was called and it was excellent to see. 35-year-old Ryan Fitzpatrick, starting in place of Jameis Winston, was on fire all day long. He completed 21 of his 28 passes for 417 yards (a career-high) and four touchdowns. He added 36 yards and a touchdown on the ground, including a crucial 12-yard scramble on 3rd & 11 with just over two minutes to go. Because of the conversion, he was able to kneel down three straight times to complete the victory.Tampa Bay’s receiving corps looked every bit as dangerous as expected. Mike Evans caught seven passes for 147 yards and a touchdown, DeSean Jackson went for 146 yards and two scores on five receptions and O.J. Howard totaled 54 yards on two catches. The run game complemented Fitzpatrick well Womens Ryan Jensen Jersey , with Peyton Barber rushing for 69 yards on 19 carries. He didn’t do anything too flashy, but he got the job done.The revamped offensive line was really good, allowing no sacks and providing Fitzpatrick with plenty of time to throw. Those deep touchdown passes wouldn’t have connected without the blocking up front. Plus, new center Ryan Jensen showed some fire when the Saints took a couple of cheap shots at his quarterback. He did draw a penalty, but you can never be too mad when a guy is sticking up for his teammate like that.Tampa Bay didn’t turn the ball over, which is a big reason for its ability to take control of the game.Rookie Ronald Jones II was a healthy scratch on Sunday, which is a bad sign for where he is after a rough preseason.Observations and Reactions— DefenseThe defense struggled for much of the day, allowing 40 points and 475 total yards. Most of the issues came in the passing game, as Drew Brees completed 37 of his 45 passes for 439 yards and three touchdowns.With Brent Grimes out, the secondary was left vulnerable for a veteran like Brees to pick apart. Rookie Carlton Davis got his first start and did a few good things, but got picked on a ton in the first half. Ryan Smith had his own issues as well. All things considered, the new-look defensive line played pretty well. The secondary’s inability to cover receivers early in their routes allowed Brees to get the ball out early, so there wasn’t a ton that the front four could do as far as getting after the quarterback. Even still, there were times when the pressure was good. Vinny Curry picked up the team’s first sack of the year in the second quarter.There was no stopping Alvin Kamara and Michael Thomas on Sunday. Kamara ran for two scores and caught nine passes for 112 yards and a score. Thomas set a franchise record with 16 catches for 180 yards and a touchdown.The defense allowed just 43 rushing yards, so if it could get its secondary up to speed, the unit could be pretty dangerous.Another thing that will make this a dangerous unit is continuing to create turnovers like it did on Sunday. In the first half, Vernon Hargreaves forced a fumble that was picked up and returned 36 yards for a touchdown by Justin Evans. In the second half, Kwon Alexander forced another fumble that was recovered by Ryan Smith.Lavonte David led the team in tackles with nine (six solo). Observations and Reactions— Special TeamsChandler Catanzaro was efficient early, but a late miss will leave a bad impression. He started by connecting on kicks from 33 and 36 yards out and made six of his six extra points. But late in the fourth quarter, he missed a 44-yarder that kept it a two-score game. Three points there likely allows Tampa Bay to coast to a comfortable win.Bryan Anger only had to punt once Peyton Barber Jersey White , but it was a pretty good one as it went for 42 yards.Special teams coverage was another plus for the Bucs, with both Ryan Smith and rookie Jack Cichy coming up with some nice tackles.Final ThoughtsWhen Jameis Winston’s three-game suspension was announced, expectations for Tampa Bay plummeted. The general consensus was that the Bucs would be lucky to emerge from games against the Saints, Eagles and Steelers with one win. Well, they’re one game into that gauntlet and they already have one win. The offense was absolutely dominant, the defense forced some turnovers and came up with just enough stops and the special teams units were pretty solid as well. For a season opener that no one expected them to win, this was a pretty great day for the Bucs.Going forward, there’s work to do on the defensive side of the ball. The defensive line as a group was encouraging and the run defense was stingy. But that pass defense... Drew Brees is a future Hall of Famer, but no quarterback should be able to make an NFL defense look that silly. Getting Grimes back would help, but there have to be some adjustments in Mike Smith’s scheme, right? If the defense can step up its play and the offense continues to be as efficient as it was on Sunday, Tampa Bay could be looking at a winning record—or a perfect one???— by the time Winston returns in week four.The Bucs host the defending Super Bowl champion Eagles (1-0) next Sunday. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. The Buccaneers are in a prime position with pick number five - but what side of the ball should they focus on?"WhiteFanposts Fanshots Sections 2016 NFL DraftInjuriesFree AgencyGame FilmDebating Bucs: Which Side of the Ball Should Jason Licht Target in Round 1New,19commentsThe Buccaneers are in a prime position with pick number five - but what side of the ball should they focus on?ESTShareTweetShareShareDebating Bucs: Which Side of the Ball Should Jason Licht Target in Round 1Kim Klement-USA TODAY SportsWhich side of the ball should Jason Licht be targeting for his first pick in the 2019 NFL Draft? Adding a Top-5 talent to any NFL roster has the potential to drastically change the trajectory of any franchise. Get it right, and your team could be competing for a title one or two years later.Get it wrong, and a general manager could be looking for a new job. So. No pressure.Here, we’re going to bring you both sides of the coin and leave the final decision to you, Bucs Nation.DAVID HARRISON - DEFENSEChuck Cook-USA TODAY SportsIt’s #FollowTheLicht season, and Jason needs to point his beam squarely onto the defensive side of the ball.Quinnen Williams, Ed Oliver, competitive Alex Cappa Jersey , even without a Top-5 draft addition.But, unless the defense gets one touchdown per game better in the upcoming season it'll all be for nothing when January 2020 rolls around.James Yarcho - OffenseMatthew Emmons-USA TODAY SportsI have no issues with the arguments David made above. That said, the Bucs will need to secure the best offensive lineman in the draft if at all possible. Bruce Arians’ offense is predicated on the deep ball, the run game, and maximizing the ability to score from anywhere on the field. In order to do so, the Bucs have to keep Jameis Winston upright. That won’t happen with the state of the current offensive line.Now, if Williams is gone - which he may be - then the Bucs will be in prime positionto trade back with a quarterback needy team that will have to pay that franchise quarterback premium to move up. Given that the Bucs only have six picks, this would be the ideal situation.I’m not going to advocate that the Buccaneers take a receiver or a running back at number five. IF they go offense, it has to be in the trenches. And if Williams is gone, they will need to go to the defensive side if they can’t move down.Something has to be done about this line. There’s a solid chance Donovan Smith returns, so he’s likely going to keep the left tackle spot regardless of the draft. That doesn’t make him any less of a question mark, though. Then you have the entire right side with Caleb Benenoch, Alex Cappa, and Demar Dotson. Dotson has been a solid starter for years, but the knee injuries and age seem to have caught up with him in 2018.You can’t win in the NFL if you don’t win the battle up front. That should be the number one focus this off-season for the Bucs before they address the needs at cornerback, linebacker, and defensive line. You can’t fix it all in one year, but the Bucs will do their best to do just that - and it starts by protecting the franchise quarterback.

The offense was not pretty once it crossed the 20-yard line last year"No matter who was playing quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers in 2018 Womens Jerick McKinnon Jersey , the red zone offense wasn’t pretty. For the entire season, the team finished dead last in red zone touchdown percentage at 41%. When Jimmy Garoppolo was under center, the offense was 5-12, which is also 41%. It wasn’t just one persons fault. I saw everything from penalties to fumbles to guys simply not getting open. I’ll use one example with each QB. That seems fair.The issueHave to block somebody The first game of the season the 49ers offense couldn’t budge the Minnesota Vikings front. Here’s how the sequence went: It’s third down and one. Alfred Morris struggles but gets just enough for a first. It’s now first and goal from the four. Weston Richburg doesn’t block anybody and Mike Person gets beat. Gain of one. Next play, the offense gets bailed out by a defensive holding call after nobody could get open and Jimmy G takes a sack. But it’s now first and goal from the one. Laken Tomlinson pulls but forgets to block the linebacker and Morris is met at the line for no gain. The next play Joshua Garnett gets tossed out of the way like a rag doll and his man hits Morris and he fumbles.This was one of the ugliest sequences you’ll see from an offense. Up front, the interior offensive line just looked overmatched in each short yardage situation. While this was just the first game, the offense finished 18th in short-yardage run situations on third and fourth down. They were 16th in plays where the running back was tackled either at or the line of scrimmage. A healthy backfield will help. The team has plenty of guys that can create for themselves. They line needs to be tougher and more physical up front.Go-to Receiver One thing I saw teams do on third and five or more was flood the middle of the field and make somebody on the perimeter beat them. Take away George Kittle and force someone else to get open, essentially. Check this play out from Week 8 against the Arizona Cardinals.Starting at the top of the screen, Marquise Goodwin doesn’t even get to the sticks on his route, let alone gets open. The zone the Cardinals are in all but takeaway the other two routes to that side. Because the 49ers needed to gain seven yards, the linebacker to Kittle’s side didn’t have to respect the underneath route out of the backfield by Kyle Juszczyk.There were plenty of times where Kittle was wide open on third down, but didn’t even get targeted. Check out this play below. It’s third and two:How do you not even look Kittle’s way!When Dante Pettis was down, the other receivers really struggled to get open on third down when they weren’t schemed open. That’s likely why we’ll see the 49ers add another target on the perimeter on Day 2 of the draft. Plays like this are likely why the team is interested in strong receivers like N’Keal Harry and Deebo Samuel.Time to improve the timingWhat is pretty clear in these clips and just watching the red zone offense is that the timing was off on a lot of their passing routes. The play above with Marquise Goodwin is a timing issue. He gets jammed at the line, and the timing of the entire play is off. That’s what happens when you have a backup QB playing. Garoppolo was far from perfect Frank Gore Jersey White , he had some misses and held on to the ball too long. Garoppolo has that gunslinger mentality with a release that is as quick as it gets. Jimmy G knowing where to go with the ball should improve the teams red zone deficiencies.It’s tough to read too much into the 49ers offense last year with all of the injuries. They But health matters. “Your best ability is your availability.” It’d be nice to see Garoppolo and the receivers build a rapport with each other. The offense was 15th in red zone opportunities per game last year. Kyle Shanahan is a wizard. He’ll need healthy bodies, 11 players on the same page, and a receiver not named Kittle to be a consistent threat if the 49ers are going to take the next step in 2019.Survivor, straight up picks for Week 3 NFL action We are officially 1/8th of the way through the 2018 NFL season. Week 3 is upon us, and it kicks off with the Cleveland Browns hosting the New York Jets on Thursday Night Football. Neither team is going to make the playoffs this year, but they have shown some signs of life through the first two weeks. Maybe TNF won’t be a bore!It’s time once again for our pick ‘em and Survivor pool contest options. We have the weekly prediction contest this season, and you can make those picks here. We also have a traditional “Pick ‘Em” contest. If you still want to join, the group name is Niners Nation, the group ID is 45734, and the password is go49ers. You’re pretty far behind, but feel free to join.Survivor pools continue. I took the Baltimore Ravens in Week 1, and went with the New Orleans Saints in Week 2. The Cleveland Browns gave them a scare, but the Browns did Browns things, and the Saints managed the win. This week Womens Deion Sanders Jersey , the Minnesota Vikings are going to be incredibly popular as a 17 point favorite at home against Buffalo. The pick is a safe one, but I’m leaning toward Chicago over Oakland Arizona. It’s a road game, which is concerning, but that Bears defense looks really good. Another option would be Miami over Oakland, but the Dolphins are not the most inspiring of teams.Tonight, Week 3 opens with the Jets and Browns squaring off. The Jets thumped the Lions on the road in their opener and then lost an ugly one at home to Miami. Cleveland tied Pittsburgh in Week 1, and then lost a heartbreaker in Week 2 — and both games would have swung the other way with an adequate kicker. The Browns are a three point favorite, marking the first time they’ve been home favorites since 2015. I don’t have a great feel for this one, but given how the Browns have played thus far against the Steelers and Saints, I’m going to lay the pointsHere are the rest of my straight-up picks. I was 10-5-1 last week, bringing my season record to 20-10-2. I’ll have my picks against the spread later this weekend.Jets @ Browns: BrownsSaints @ Falcons: Falcons49ers @ Chiefs: ChiefsRaiders @ Dolphins: DolphinsBills @ Vikings: VikingsColts @ Eagles: EaglesPackers @ Washington: WashingtonBengals @ Panthers: BengalsTitans @ Jaguars: JaguarsBroncos @ Ravens: RavensGiants @ Texans: TexansChargers @ Rams: RamsBears @ Cardinals: BearsCowboys @ Seahawks: SeahawksPatriots @ Lions: PatriotsSteelers @ Buccaneers: Bucs