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Lamar Jackson’s future is increasingly a mystery: Mike Sando’s Pick Six

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Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh stepped to the podium Sunday night and saluted his quarterback for fighting through injuries to lead a spirited effort, albeit in defeat, against the defending AFC champion Cincinnati Bengals.

The quarterback whose toughness Harbaugh saluted prominently in his postgame remarks was Tyler Huntley, not Lamar Jackson, whose unavailability six weeks after suffering a sprained knee has fueled speculation about Jackson’s motives in the absence of a contract extension.

As Baltimore’s season ended with a 24-17 wild-card defeat at Cincinnati, the Ravens’ offseason began with NFL insiders questioning how prominently Jackson figures into the team’s plans.

The Pick Six column leads with perspectives from around the league on a subject that simmered for weeks before boiling over as it became clear Jackson would miss a sixth consecutive game, this one in the postseason, despite Harbaugh initially suggesting the quarterback might return a month ago. Will the Ravens trade Jackson? What are the alternatives? That and more in this wild-card edition:

• Lamar Jackson’s future is … where?
• Chargers, Herbert and rookie window
• Bengals’ big play joins historic list
• Under-radar Giants move pays off huge
• Officiating is always worse than ever
• Two-minute drill: Allen, Purdy & more

1. Is Lamar Jackson finished in Baltimore? The situation feels increasingly fraught.

It’s been a strange season for quarterbacks, with Marcus Mariota and Derek Carr both leaving their teams after getting benched. The mystery surrounding Jackson remains unresolved, seemingly by design.

The Ravens easily could have shot down the idea that Jackson’s unsettled contract status might be influencing his availability. Isn’t that what Andy Reid would do if Patrick Mahomes’ motives were suddenly questioned? Wouldn’t any coach do that for a quarterback he wanted to protect?

“That is absolutely how things are done, except for if your last name is Harbaugh, right?” an exec from another team said on the condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the topic. “That is what him and his brother do, and there is one more guy who handles business like that — he wears cutoff-arm sweatshirts with hoodies, and his name is Bill Belichick.”

A decade ago, Harbaugh reportedly clashed with legendary safety Ed Reed over practices that Reed and some players found too intense. Any gap between Harbaugh’s expectations for Jackson and Jackson’s expectations could similarly fall along generational lines.

“Harbaugh is a power coach,” this exec said. “It’s like it is 1983 and you’re going to get the kid to come back by saying he is an important part of the team and it’s not a serious injury, but that doesn’t work in today’s NFL. He tries to make it coy and tricky, but he wants to exercise power over players, just like the college coaches he comes from and admires.”

The Ravens moved on from Reed after that 2012 season.

Jackson is much more important to the Ravens now than Reed was then, but injuries have sidelined him late in the past two seasons, raising questions about how much money Baltimore should guarantee for the long term.

Jackson is averaging 10.3 rushes and scrambles per start through 61 career starts, by far the most for any quarterback through 61 starts since at least 2000, according to TruMedia. Cam Newton is next at 6.8 per start to the same point in his career, followed by Michael Vick (6.7), Josh Allen (6.0) and Russell Wilson (5.3). Newton produced an MVP season while helping Carolina to the Super Bowl in his age-26 season, but he never reached the Pro Bowl again and began to decline. Jackson turned 26 last week.

“Has he improved as a passer?” an evaluator asked. “Sure, but he is a running quarterback, and how is it different than the running back position? It is different in terms of number of hits, but the hits can be worse for a quarterback to take. I just would not commit to him more than a year or two.”

Jackson reportedly wanted a fully guaranteed deal like the one Deshaun Watson leveraged from Cleveland when Watson could have signed with other teams. Jackson does not possess that kind of leverage because Baltimore owns his rights through the franchise tag. But he could make the situation in Baltimore untenable if he wished, the way Jalen Ramsey and others have done when seeking out.

Is it really coming to that for Jackson and the Ravens?

“It is hard to get rid of a player who has helped you achieve so much,” another exec said. “You can only do that if you have a replacement ready on the roster or if the locker room is like, ‘We are good without this guy.’ They don’t have the replacement lined up, so it’s going to have to be a thing where the locker room says, ‘Eh, it is kind of messed up, what he is doing.’ ”

After the Cincinnati game, Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey offered support for Jackson, suggesting the quarterback was limping around the facility at perhaps 50-60 percent of full strength, but Harbaugh has conspicuously allowed perceptions to linger when he could have reset the narrative long ago.

“Yeah, he is letting Lamar twist in the wind,” this exec said.

“Tyler Huntley, coming in and playing the way he played, coming off the shoulder and the wrist injuries and fighting his way back onto the field and just giving everything he had,” Harbaugh said after the game.

Sean Payton predicted on the Fox pregame show Sunday that Jackson had played his final game with the Ravens. Vick, seated near Payton in the Fox studio, suggested Jackson should have “put a brace on” his knee and gutted it out. Earlier in the week, Ravens receiver Sammy Watkins suggested Jackson might be playing if he had entered into a long-term contract.

“I am not a Lamar apologist, but I don’t think any of us knows what he is going through medically,” the evaluator cautioned. “Everybody is different, and a PCL is a weird ligament, and if there is truly inflammation in there, that is hard to play through.”

An agent thought the coming offseason would be a terrible one for teams needing quarterbacks. That could increase the demand for Carr, who is on the trading block. Tom Brady could be available as a short-term fix. Jimmy Garoppolo’s durability will be a factor teams must weigh. Teams drafting outside the top picks can’t count on that avenue.

“There will definitely be a market for Lamar if the Ravens want to trade him,” an exec with ties to the Ravens said. “I was thinking maybe Houston. They have a ton of draft capital. Atlanta comes to mind. Lamar going back home to Miami would be amazing if they could find a way.”

It’s all speculation at this point, but it feels less far-fetched all the time.

“I see a divorce unless their doctors are privately telling them Lamar really can’t play because of the injury, which seems doubtful with the way Harbaugh has handled it,” a longtime exec from another team said. “I could see a trade next spring if they can get a high enough pick to get a new QB. Lamar appears to have a ceiling that Jalen Hurts poked through this year. Harbaugh is making it seem like they are tired of the situation. They will never give him the Watson-type contract he reportedly covets.”

2. Six quarterbacks have achieved Tier 1 status while on their rookie deals since I began polling coaches an executives annually for “Quarterback Tiers” in 2014. The Chargers must regret that Justin Herbert is the only one without a postseason victory.

Herbert becomes eligible for a new contract this offseason after completing his third NFL season. The Chargers could wait another year or move to get something done earlier. If they enter into a new deal this offseason, they’ll have a year or two with smaller salary-cap charges before the big cap hits make it tougher to build a team around him.

Whatever the case, the Chargers’ 31-30 defeat at Jacksonville after blowing a 27-0 lead made Los Angeles the first team since 1999 to lose a game while committing zero turnovers and forcing at least five. Teams had won 101 consecutive games when the turnover dials were cranked to those extremes.

The table below shows postseason records for Herbert and the five other quarterbacks to achieve Tier 1 status since 2014 before signing second contracts. The other five combined for a 17-10 postseason record with one Super Bowl title while still on their rookie deals.

Herbert’s Chargers are 0-1 after their historic collapse.

Playoff Wins While on Rookie Deals

Rookie Deal QB Playoff W-L Reached

4-1

SB Win

4-1

SB Loss

3-3

AFC Title Loss

3-3

AFC Title Loss

1-2

DIV Loss

0-1

WC Loss

3. How big was Sam Hubbard’s 98-yard fumble return for a Cincinnati Bengals touchdown? Bigger than all but one postseason scrimmage play since at least 2000.

The Ravens were on the verge of scoring a touchdown for a 24-17 lead in the fourth quarter at Cincinnati, or so they thought. Hubbard’s long return of a fumble after Ravens quarterback Tyler Huntley extended the ball toward the goal line, but not across it, produced a 12.0-point swing in expected points added (EPA), according to TruMedia. That number represents the swing from Baltimore having third-and-goal from the 1, which was worth 5.5 EPA in favor of the Ravens, and the very unexpected actual result of the play.

Only James Harrison’s famous pick-six interception for Pittsburgh off Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner in the Super Bowl following the 2008 season produced a bigger postseason swing on a single play. Hubbard’s play felt more pivotal because it occurred in the fourth quarter.

The top five EPA swing plays from scrimmage in the playoffs since 2000 were memorable ones:

• Harrison: 100-yard pick-six off Warner in Super Bowl XLIII

• Hubbard: 98-yard fumble return for Bengals against Ravens

• Kam Chancellor, Seattle Seahawks: 90-yard pick-six off Carolina’s Cam Newton in the 2014 divisional round

• Champ Bailey, Denver Broncos: 100-yard interception return off Tom Brady against New England in the 2005 divisional round, ending with a fumble out of bounds at the New England 1

• Ronde Barber, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 92-yard pick-six for Tampa Bay off Philadelphia’s Donovan McNabb in the 2002 NFC title game at Veterans Stadium, launching the Bucs to the Super Bowl

The frantic efforts of defenders to head off disaster stood out on some of these plays, adding drama to them: Arizona’s Larry Fitzgerald navigating through traffic while trying to chase down Harrison; Baltimore’s Mark Andrews sprinting after Hubbard and diving at his feet; and the Patriots’ Benjamin Watson separating Bailey from the football with a big hit at the pylon. It’s that sort of effort that makes the games so compelling.

4. Isaiah Hodgins logged the 12th 100-yard receiving game in Giants playoff history during a 31-24 victory over the Minnesota Vikings. His claiming off the waiver wire says plenty about the Giants.

Coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen took over a Giants team that had tied the Jets for the NFL’s worst record (22-59) over the previous five seasons, just ahead of Jacksonville (25-56). While the Jaguars loaded up on expensive free agents to revive their program, including receiver Christian Kirk for $18 million per year, the Giants enjoyed less roster flexibility. They decided to tough it out in 2022, focusing on establishing a winning culture.

Claiming Hodgins off the waiver wire after trading unhappy and unproductive 2021 first-round receiver Kadarius Toney to Kansas City was consistent with this emphasis. The Giants traded a player who frequently missed practice and who, after the trade, tweeted that the hamstring sidelining him for weeks wasn’t really injured. Toney then deleted the tweet.

For the Giants, the move turned into more than addition by subtraction. It was also addition by addition, as Hodgins outproduced Toney for the rest of the season, albeit while playing in an offense affording him a much more prominent role, based on the team’s limited options.

• Toney with KC: 14 receptions, 171 yard, two touchdowns (seven games)
• Hodgins with NYG: 41 receptions, 456 yards, five touchdowns (nine games)

So far, so good for the Giants. They extracted from the Chiefs third- and sixth-round picks in unloading Toney while signaling to their team that playing time is earned on the practice field.

Hodgins caught eight passes for 105 yards and a touchdown against the Vikings. He made a 9-yard catch on third-and-7 during a drive to a field goal for a 17-7 lead. His 32-yard reception set up a touchdown for a 24-14 lead. His 19-yard grab on second-and-10 sustained a touchdown drive for the final score in a 31-24 victory. Hodgins also made three receptions on second-and-long that set up manageable third-down situations.

The table below shows Hodgins’ 105-yard day ranking 12th on the Giants’ all-time list for postseason games. Bob Schnelker holds the record with 175 yards for the Giants against Baltimore in the 1959 playoffs. He later went on to call plays for nine 500-yard games with Detroit, Green Bay and Minnesota.

Giants With 100+ Yards in Playoffs

Giants Pass Catcher Season-Opp Yds

Bob Schnelker

1959-BAL

175

Hakeem Nicks

2011-GB

165

Ike Hilliard

2000-MIN

155

Plaxico Burress

2007-GB

151

Victor Cruz

2011-SF

142

Amani Toomer

2002-SF

136

Frank Gifford

1956-CHI

131

Johnny Perkins

1981-SF

121

Earnest Gray

1981-SF

118

Hakeem Nicks

2011-ATL

115

Hakeem Nicks

2011-NE

109

Isaiah Hodgins

2022-MIN

105

5. Officiating is always worse than it’s ever been, according to whoever feels aggrieved at any particular time.

You know officiating frustration has reached elevated levels when ESPN’s top news breaker, Adam Schefter, is writing bylined stories on the matter. Is officiating really bad and getting worse?

Officials’ experience levels could be one difference now compared to the past. The five referees in the wild-card games Saturday and Sunday averaged 5.6 seasons as referees. The four officials who worked wild-card weekend a decade ago in 2012 averaged 9.3 seasons in the role, by comparison. The league has turned over experienced officials in recent seasons.

“It takes four years to become truly competent, based on the complicated nature of the rulebook and the way they keep tweaking replay,” said an NFL team exec with knowledge of officiating. “You put these fifth-year guys in there and you are rolling the dice.”

A few years ago, I went back through old newspaper clippings to compile stories with coaches and team officials complaining that officiating had never been worse than it was at that very moment. There were dozens of stories over the decades, year after year after year.

In 1975, then-Vikings coach Bud Grant called the league “a multi-million-dollar operation being handled by amateurs” from an officiating standpoint. Also that year, late Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson called for a head linesman to be fired for ruling a play had been whistled dead before a fumble. Carroll Rosenbloom, then owner of the Rams, said he’d pay half of any fine levied against Wilson by the league, because officiating was so incredibly terrible.

“I know the feeling,” Rosenbloom said at the time. “I have lost two major playoff games because of bad officiating. I suffered in silence and wound up with a coronary. Wilson will, too, if he doesn’t say something.”

Rosenbloom actually did suffer a heart attack after the controversial call, which may or may not have been a factor.

A decade later, the venerable sportswriter Dick Young said officiating in the NFL was the worst he had ever seen it. Young was born in 1917, three years before Ralph Hay, owner of the Canton Bulldogs, summoned 10 other team owners into his Canton car dealership to found what became the NFL.

“Officiating gaffes more noticeable this year,” an Associated Press headline read in 2012, a quarter century after Young’s passing.

Now, in 2022, officiating is allegedly even worse than that, even though no one can quantify how good or bad officiating actually is, or ever was, or will be in the future. We just know anyone watching any game, in any sport, at any level, thinks the officiating should be better.

6. Two-minute drill: An incredible Josh Allen stat and some perspective for the red-hot Purdy

Did Bruce Arians sneak into the Buffalo Bills’ coaching booth and wrest the headset away from offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey? It sure seemed that way as quarterback Josh Allen fired away downfield in Buffalo’s way-closer-than-it-should-have-been victory against the undermanned Miami Dolphins.

Allen averaged 15.6 air yards per attempt on 39 attempts, meaning the ball traveled that far past the line of scrimmage to its target on average. The 15.6 figure ranks first among 2,372 player games since 2007 when a quarterback attempted at least 39 passes. It is nearly double the 8.2 average for those 2,372 qualifying games.

It was part of a wild ride through the wild-card round for the Bills, who might need to trade some of that volatility for consistency against the Bengals in the divisional round. …

Brock Purdy completed 18 of 30 passes for 332 yards and three touchdowns in the San Francisco 49ers’ 41-23 victory against the Seattle Seahawks. The glittering stat line included the highest EPA per pass play for any quarterback in wild-card weekend so far. The 49ers appear to be running largely the same offense they ran when veteran Jimmy Garoppolo was healthy, a testament to how quickly Purdy has come along as a rookie.

The 49ers are now averaging 34.8 offensive points per game while going 6-0 with Purdy in the lineup. Coach Kyle Shanahan seems to be scheming up wide-open receivers at his usual rate, while Deebo Samuel, Christian McCaffrey & Co. break tackles and avoid defenders while racking up yards after catch.

What’s not to like about Purdy? Purdy’s inexperience operating the two-minute offense is one area to watch if the 49ers get into high-pressure situations against top defenses. Solving the blitzes and coverages that can be difficult to handle in third-and-longer situations is another.

“What did you think that 2-minute looked like before half?” a defensive coach whose team faced the 49ers earlier in the season said, referencing the game against Seattle. “In drop-back pass, he is scrambling for his life, he is running to the border of the field three times in the same drive, throwing the ball out of bounds, getting hit. Kyle is the one beating guys by 20 in the playoffs with that offense and a top-three defense.”

San Francisco should remain unstoppable on offense as long as Shanahan can keep things on schedule.

“Purdy has done well, but it is amazing how people are trying to anoint him,” an evaluator said. “I don’t want to take anything away, but he has led the NFL in wide-open receivers. And time to throw. These guys are wide open. When they are not, George Kittle catches the ball on third down and wills his way to a first down. It is the absolute perfect setting and every quarterback would dream to be in it. Give the kid credit, but let’s not anoint him.” …

People I know who have worked for the Chargers in coaching and personnel think the team will retain coach Brandon Staley even after blowing a 27-0 lead in falling 31-30 to the Jaguars. They contend ownership will be reluctant to eat Staley’s remaining salary, while noting it could be impractical for any front office to hire a fourth head coach (general manager Tom Telesco has helped hire three already in Staley, Anthony Lynn and Mike McCoy).

The idea that the Chargers might pay top dollar for Sean Payton while parting with draft capital for him and ceding control of personnel to him would also mark a huge departure from previous form for the organization, which is why it seems unlikely.

“I’m sure Sean Payton would love to have Justin Herbert as his quarterback,” an exec from another team said, “but I don’t think he actually wants to deal with the ownership there and the spending issues they have had over the years. All that comes with that organization.”

(Top illustration: John Bradford / The Athletic; photo: Mark Alberti / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)



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NFL playoffs and Super Bowl 2023 expert predictions

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The notorious Serby Crystal Ball that before this wild and wacky NFL season foresaw a Bills-49ers Super Bowl matchup has been dusted off just in time for the playoffs. 

Much has changed for both teams, of course: Trey Lance (ankle) was lost Week 2 and Jimmy Garoppolo (foot) was lost Week 13 and the football world was introduced to Mr. Irrelevant, Brock Purdy. 

The Bills endured the emotional roller coaster of a near-tragedy to the uplifting, inspirational, heartwarming story of Damar Hamlin, who was remarkably released from the University of Cincinnati Medical Center on Monday, one week after suffering cardiac arrest making a tackle against the Bengals’ Tee Higgins. 

Can the Bills be a Team of Destiny and win their first Super Bowl in five tries? Can Purdy be America’s Mr. Relevant? Can Tom Brady capture his eighth ring? Can Patrick Mahomes win his second? Will Joe Burrow be smoking postgame cigars? 

The Serby Crystal Ball has it all in clear focus: 

Super Wild Card Weekend

Saturday 

Seahawks at 49ers

Geno Smith, meet Nick Bosa. Kenneth Walker III, meet Fred Warner. America, meet young Mr. Purdy, who won’t melt under the searing hot playoff lights. In two losses to the Niners, the Seahawks scored one offensive touchdown. And the Niners rushed for 189 (without Christian McCaffrey) and 170 yards. 

49ers 31, Seahawks 17 

The full bracket for the 2023 NFL playoffs.
NY Post illustration
Brock Purdy won’t wilt in the bright lights of the NFL playoffs.
USA TODAY Sports

Chargers at Jaguars

A matchup of Golden Boys at quarterback, Justin Herbert vs. Trevor Lawrence. Brandon Staley opted to go more Tom Coughlin than Brian Daboll in the regular-season finale and might have dodged a bullet because WR Mike Williams (back) should be good to go. Herbert has had Williams (ankle) and Keenan Allen (hamstring) together for only four games start-to-finish. If Joey Bosa (groin) is OK to team with Khalil Mack, the Bolts will enjoy an experience pass-rush edge over The Other Josh Allen and rookie Travon Walker. Forever Trevor will need Travis Etienne to go off against the 28th-ranked run defense. 

Chargers 27, Jaguars 24 

Sunday 

Dolphins at Bills 

The Tua Tagovailoa Dolphins stood toe-to-toe and snow-to-snow with the Bills in their last-second, 32-29 loss on Dec. 17. That was before Tua’s latest concussion woes. Will Tua be cleared? If not, expect Teddy Bridgewater (pinky) instead of rookie Skylar Thompson. The long-range forecast is sunny and balmy (28 degrees) with 8 mph winds, so Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle can eat. But Josh Allen threw for 4 TDs and ran for 77 yards last time. 

Win one for Damar. 

Bills 33, Dolphins 17 

Giants at Vikings

Daniel Jones will be armed with confidence facing the league’s 31st-ranked passing defense. Saquon Barkley is rested and ready for the 20th-ranked rush defense. Brian Daboll and Wink Martindale are dangerous the second time they see an opponent (see Commanders). Dexter Lawrence and Leonard Williams will contain Dalvin Cook, and Wink won’t let Justin Jefferson (12-133-1 TD) and T.J. Hockenson (13-109-2 TDs) wreck the game this time. Xavier McKinney is back (Adoree’ Jackson too?). This time, Graham Gano, not Greg Joseph, walks it off. 

Giants 27, Vikings 24 

Ravens at Bengals

Ja’Marr Chase and the Bengals air game are in for a cage match with the Ravens.
Getty Images

Their mantra Play Like A Raven is much easier when Lamar Jackson is the quarterback. He hasn’t practiced in five weeks (PCL). Burrow didn’t have Higgins in the early-season loss to Baltimore; he has him now alongside Ja’Marr Chase. The defending AFC champs have an eight-game win streak. The Ravens passing game never recovered from the trade of Hollywood Brown. The red zone has been a dead zone for them. If it’s Tyler Huntley or Anthony Brown at quarterback, everybody sing “Who Dey?” Let’s guess on a rusty Lamar return and a maniacal defense led by MLB Roquan Smith neutralizing Joe Mixon, and Marlon Humphrey and Marcus Peters limiting Chase and Higgins, and J.K. Dobbins and Mark Andrews doing enough in a vicious, chippy steel cage match. 

Ravens 24, Bengals 21 

Monday

Cowboys at Buccaneers

Brady (with his seven rings) is 7-0 against the Cowboys. Dak Prescott has a seven-game interception streak. Ezekiel Elliott hasn’t been eating much lately. Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence will be problems, but Brady will get the ball out quickly to Mike Evans and Chris Godwin against rookie corner DaRon Bland. Playoff Lenny Fournette can have success against 22nd-ranked rush defense, and if center Ryan Jensen (knee) can return, that would be a huge lift. Brady versus Dan Quinn … Falcons HC in Super Bowl 51 who blew that 28-3 lead to the GOAT, FWIW. 

Bucs 24, Cowboys 21 

Micah Parson and the Cowboys will be too much for Tom Brady & Co. to handle.
USA TODAY Sports

Divisional Round

AFC 

Ravens at Chiefs

Lamar ran for 107 yards and 2 TDs in a 36-35 win early in 2021 in Baltimore to beat Mahomes for the first time in four tries. Steve Spagnuolo and Chris Jones won’t let that happen again. Magic Mahomes no longer has Tyreek Hill and it doesn’t matter. Jerick McKinnon and Isaiah Pacheco give Andy Reid more balance, and while rookie safety Kyle Hamilton owns size and range, Travis Kelce will be too savvy for him. Kadarius Toney: 1 TD, 1 tweaked hamstring.

Chiefs 34, Ravens 17 

Chargers at Bills 

The long-range forecast is calling for light snow on Jan. 21 and snow Jan. 22. Austin Ekeler will need to be a passing-game weapon against the fifth-ranked rushing defense (104.6 yards). Allen, Devin Singletary and James Cook will lead a 150-yard rushing assault. Win one more for Damar. 

Bills 33, Chargers 21 

Devin Singletary and the Bills will rush their way through the Chargers.
Getty Images

NFC 

Giants at Eagles

It’s not easy beating a division rival three times in one season. 

Davis Webb lobbies to start this one, citing his chemistry with Kenny Golladay, and Daboll tells the media that he will sit down with GM Joe Schoen and discuss everything on Friday night (eye roll). Anyway, a healthy Jalen Hurts and the top-ranked pass defense proves too much for Jones without a true No. 1 receiver, even though Barkley catches eight passes and totals 130 yards. 

Eagles 27, Giants 17 

Bucs at 49ers: 

Brady versus his boyhood team. Brady versus Purdy. Brady’s last game as a Buc before leaving for Raiders? Brady’s last game before leaving for Fox? Purdy has George Kittle. Brady doesn’t have Gronk. Purdy has Kyle Shanahan. Brady does not. Demeco Ryans boasts the second-ranked (77.7 yards) rushing defense. 

49ers 31, Bucs 17 

NFC Championship 

49ers at Eagles 

Garoppolo beat the Eagles 17-11 at the Linc early in 2021. Will Purdy blink? Remember, cornerbacks Darius Slay and James Bradberry are no slouches. But if there is a team built to win physical battles on the road, it is these 49ers. Hurts will have some success against the Niner secondary targeting A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith and Dallas Goedert, but Warner, Dre Greenlaw and Arik Armstead will stifle Miles Sanders and make Nick Sirianni one-dimensional. 

49ers 27, Eagles 24 

AFC Championship

Bills vs. Chiefs 

The next Allen-Mahomes dream showdown. An eerie environment at a neutral site — the halfway point between Buffalo and Kansas City is Indianapolis FYI. Gabe Davis won’t catch 4 TD passes against the Chiefs this time, but Stefon Diggs will haul in a couple against a group of young, inexperienced cornerbacks, including No. 1 draft pick Trent McDuffie. Last one with the ball wins. Allen is the last one with the ball. 

Win another for Damar. 

Bills 33, Chiefs 30 

Josh Allen and the Bills will get over the hump this time and give Buffalo it’s long-awaited title.
Getty Images

Super Bowl 2023 

49ers-Bills 

During the two weeks between the NFC Championship game and the Super Bowl, Shanahan ponders the same question that Bill Belichick pondered prior to Super Bowl 36: Brady or Drew Bledsoe? For Shanny, it’s Purdy or Garoppolo, whose foot has finally healed enough. And like Belichick, he stays with the hot hand. 

But when Purdy suddenly develops the yips, Garoppolo is summoned off the bench and brings the Niners back from a first-half hole. McCaffrey and Deebo Samuel begin imposing their will on the night, and Marv Levy and Jim Kelly are sweating bullets in the owners’ box. But Allen, in his huddle at the start of a late fourth-quarter drive, looks up in the stands and says: “Hey look, it’s Will Smith and Chris Rock!” It eases the tension, and Allen engineers a 98-yard drive that culminates in him leaping over the end zone third-and-goal from the 3. 

Won the Big One for Damar.

Bills 33, 49ers 27

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Why the Bears traded Roquan Smith to the Ravens and how the All-Pro LB fits in Baltimore

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By Kevin Fishbain, Adam Jahns and Jeff Zrebiec

The Bears have agreed to trade linebacker Roquan Smith to the Ravens, a person with knowledge of the deal but not authorized to speak publicly confirmed to The Athletic. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Baltimore will send second- and fifth-round picks and veteran linebacker A.J. Klein to Chicago, The Athletic confirmed.
  • Baltimore’s middle linebacker play has been inconsistent, and Smith, a two-time All-Pro, could be a long-term answer.
  • All seven players the Bears drafted in 2018 are now on different teams or out of the NFL.

Backstory

Smith, the No. 8 pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, “held-in” prior to the season as he sought a new contract from Chicago. However, he eventually ended his hold-in and participated in training camp in late August, announcing he would play out the remainder of his contract, which expires at the end of the 2022 season.

Smith started every game for the Bears this season, tallying an NFL-best 83 total tackles, 2 1/2 sacks, two interceptions and three pass deflections. He had a career-high 163 tackles in 2021.

Chicago lost to the Cowboys on Sunday to fall to 3-5 on the season. Baltimore leads the AFC North at 5-3 after Thursday’s win over the Buccaneers.

Why Baltimore made this trade

The Ravens have long prioritized the middle linebacker position. It’s probably the Ray Lewis effect. This year, they just haven’t gotten consistent production out of the position.

Former first-round pick Patrick Queen is playing much better of late, but middle linebacker Josh Bynes has been banged up and has struggled at times. And the Ravens just haven’t had much in the way of quality depth behind the starters. Smith solidifies the Ravens at the position and brings leadership and play-making ability to the middle of their defense. – Zrebiec

Could Smith fit with the Ravens in the long term?

He certainly could. The Ravens are very protective of their draft picks and for them to trade a second and a fifth rounder certainly suggests that they don’t plan on Smith being just a rental.

Bynes, who has been their starting middle linebacker, is on a one-year contract. The Ravens will have to make a decision on Queen’s fifth-year option this offseason, but it’s hardly a lock that the Ravens pick that up. Smith doesn’t have an agent and general manager Eric DeCosta has experience in such arrangements in his contract talks with quarterback Lamar Jackson. It would be surprising if DeCosta hasn’t already broached the subject with Smith. – Zrebiec

Why Chicago made this trade

Even though the Bears put forth what they believed to be a generous and competitive contract offer to Smith last summer, they were probably never going to get to where Smith wanted financially. This is not a regime willing to expend a sizable chunk of its cap on an off-ball linebacker. The two sides were headed toward an annual game of chicken with the franchise tag, or the Bears could try to get value for him at his peak. They found that with as good as draft capital as they’ll get for anyone on the roster. – Fishbain

Did the Bears get enough back?

The Bears got more for Smith from the Ravens than they did for pass rusher Khalil Mack. The Chargers gave the Bears a 2022 second-round pick and 2023 sixth-round pick for Mack. The Bears later sent that sixth-rounder back to the Chargers for two seventh-rounders in 2022.

After trading Smith, here is the Bears’ draft capital for the 2023 NFL Draft: 1st, 2nd, 2nd (Baltimore), 3rd, 4th, 4th (Philadelphia), 5th, 5th (Baltimore) and 7th. GM Ryan Poles now has a lot to work with if he wants to maneuver around in the draft or try to make a trade for a receiver before Tuesday’s deadline. – Jahns

What happens next

The NFL trade deadline is Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET.

Required reading

(Photo: Daniel Bartel / USA Today)



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Six NFL trades we’d love to see: Bradley Chubb to Cowboys, Brandin Cooks to Packers

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The biggest name is already off the NFL trade market, with the 49ers landing running back Christian McCaffrey last week. And the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs each made splashes this week, with Philadelphia adding Bears pass-rusher Robert Quinn to an already impressive defense, and the Chiefs acquiring the electric Kadarius Toney from the Giants.

But plenty of intrigue remains as Tuesday’s 4 p.m. ET deadline draws near.

A number of anticipated contenders have faltered during the initial stretch of the season. These teams might look to the trade market to help themselves get back on track.

So, as we wait to see how things unfold, we’re kicking around ideas on deals that may or may not happen — but, in our opinion, should.

The Athletic’s Jeff Howe and Mike Jones came up three proposals apiece. One writer details why each deal makes sense, and the other explains why it might not.

Mike Jones’ three trade proposals

Texans wide receiver Brandin Cooks to Packers for fifth-round pick

Jones’ why: Aaron Rodgers and the Packers desperately miss Davante Adams, and there’s no one on the trade market who can fully fill those shoes. But right now, Rodgers badly needs a veteran wide receiver who understands the concepts of the offense and where he is expected to be at all times. Cooks — stranded in Houston, where the Texans will likely vie for the top pick of the draft — can help. He played in the same offense for Packers coach Matt LaFleur’s good buddy Sean McVay while a member of the Rams in 2018 and 2019 (LaFleur served as the Rams’ offensive coordinator in 2017). At 29, Cooks still has plenty left in the tank while coming off back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons. In all, Cooks has topped the 1,000-yard mark in six of the last seven seasons during stops in New Orleans, New England, L.A. and Houston. While some wide receivers struggle to find comfort with a new team midseason, Cooks would have a good chance of making a near-instant impact.

Howe’s why not: The last time the Packers traded for a wide receiver, it involved Rodgers’ friend Randall Cobb. Part of the Packers’ offensive problems this season has been Rodgers’ lack of trust with the young receivers. So the question is whether Rodgers and Cooks can create enough immediate chemistry to make a tangible difference, with the Packers essentially in win-now mode for the final 10 games. That doesn’t mean Green Bay should wave the white flag and ignore all potential receiver acquisitions, but there should be some level of skepticism involved.

GO DEEPER

Vic’s Picks, Week 8: Aaron Rodgers has a point about the Packers

Patriots offensive tackle Isaiah Wynn to Rams for middle-round pick

Jones’ why: The defending Super Bowl champion Rams have struggled a good deal this season, and a lot of that has to do with injuries along their offensive line. Through six games, Matthew Stafford has been sacked 22 times (third-highest total in the league), and the Rams average just 70.5 rushing yards per game (31st in the NFL). After losing left tackle Joe Noteboom to a torn Achilles tendon last week, the Rams’ sense of urgency to fortify the line ratcheted up that much more. Wynn, the 23rd pick of the 2018 draft, spent the last three seasons at left tackle for New England but fell out of favor with the coaching staff. A trade to the Rams could benefit all parties involved.

Howe’s why not: Wynn is having his worst season in New England, although it’s fair to wonder how much the move to right tackle has thrown him off. But even with that in mind, the Patriots would have to be comfortable with Marcus Cannon and Yodny Cajuste at right tackle for the final 10 games. They also have to operate under the likelihood left tackle Trent Brown will miss time, as he hasn’t made it through a full season since 2018 (one of just two times in his eight-year career that’s happened). With the Patriots’ QB situation off the rails at the moment, a move that depletes the offensive line — regardless of how Patriots fans feel about Wynn — may not be in their best interest.

Broncos wide receiver Jerry Jeudy to Ravens for two middle-round picks

Jones’ why: There’s no way the Ravens will keep pace with the Chiefs and the Bills if they don’t get Lamar Jackson some more consistent and impactful weapons. Jeudy, who has averaged 17 yards or better per catch in two of his three NFL seasons, definitely helps fill this need. Jeudy has been mentioned as a potential target for Green Bay, but the Packers brass and Rodgers may prefer a veteran. The Giants and Rams also have been mentioned as potential destinations for Jeudy, but Baltimore and Jackson need someone like him in the worst way.

GO DEEPER

NFL trade deadline picks for all 32 teams: Jerry Jeudy, Cam Akers and more

Howe’s why not: I’m all in on this one. I can’t even give a “why not.” The Ravens’ offense has a heavy emphasis on game-breaking plays, either with Jackson or the athletic skill players, and Jeudy would add to that. It could also be a nice negotiating tactic for general manager Eric DeCosta to show Jackson they’ll make moves to improve the offensive talent around him. Jeudy hasn’t taken off in Denver, but who really has since he got there in 2020? He has made a handful of plays that validated the talent the football world saw from him at Alabama, and he’d have a terrific chance to resurrect that potential in Baltimore.


The Lions seem unlikely to trade tight end T.J. Hockenson. But would a first-round pick get a deal done? (Kirthmon F. Dozier / USA Today)

Jeff Howe’s three trade proposals

Lions tight end T.J. Hockenson to Bucs for 2023 first-round pick, 2024 fourth-round pick

Howe’s why: OK, so there’s no reason to believe Hockenson is on the trade block, but this would be a tough offer for the Lions to ignore. They already have the inside track on a top-five pick with their own draft selection, which should be used on a quarterback, and another first-rounder from the Rams. Throw in a third opening-round pick, and the Lions would control the draft board. Maybe they’d even get lucky enough to get a quarterback and — possibly through another trade — Alabama pass rusher Will Anderson to pair up with Aidan Hutchinson. For the Bucs, their offensive issues can’t be traced to a singular spot, but the lack of a star-caliber tight end certainly hasn’t helped. Hockenson is under contract through his fifth-year option in 2023, so that’s important, too. Aside from getting their offense going as soon as possible, the Bucs also have to be thinking about Tom Brady’s future. Brady, an impending free agent who can’t be tagged, could simply choose to retire, or maybe he’ll be concerned that the offense can’t be fixed in its current state and look to play elsewhere. It’s conceivable the addition of Hockenson could play a part in swaying that decision.

Jones’ why not: That’s a steep price, and considering that they may have to use a first-rounder on a quarterback next season, I don’t see the Bucs forking over that much. Yes, a tight end of Hockenson’s caliber would help. But not at that price.

Broncos linebacker Bradley Chubb to Cowboys for 2023 and 2024 third-round pick

Howe’s why: The Cowboys boast the league’s most tenacious defense, and Chubb might be the most dangerous defender on the trade block. Dallas will remain as dangerous as Micah Parsons allows them to be, but the addition of Chubb would create yet another headache for opposing offenses. Defensive coordinator Dan Quinn could build the pass rush around DeMarcus Lawrence, Dorance Armstrong and Chubb, then give Parsons even more freedom to move around. As for the Broncos, Chubb is still worth building around, but their defense will remain solid regardless and they need to recoup draft assets after the Russell Wilson trade. If they don’t believe Chubb will sign an extension after the season — or if they believe he’ll exceed their budget — it makes sense to move him now.

GO DEEPER

Broncos players on Bradley Chubb trade talk: ‘Hope he’s with us for a long time’

Jones’ why not: Man, an already beastly Cowboys defense gets even more dangerous, huh? I like it, but there could be even more desperate teams in pursuit of Chubb. One? The Rams, who still badly miss Von Miller and would like to add a pass-rusher at the deadline. They don’t have a first-round pick to dangle, but they do have a second- and a third-rounder in 2023.

Falcons center Matt Hennessy, Ravens guard Ben Cleveland, Bengals guard Jackson Carman, Patriots right tackle Isaiah Wynn, Eagles left tackle Andre Dillard to Rams

Falcons receive: 2023 sixth-round pick

Ravens receive: 2023 sixth-round pick

Bengals receive: 2023 seventh-round pick

Patriots receive: 2024 fourth-round pick

Eagles receive: 2024 third-round pick

Howe’s why: We had to search through some old storage closets to find some of the Rams’ spare draft picks, and they do have additional late-round assets due to prior trades. Granted, they might never draft again, but Southern California is a beautiful place to explore in late April anyway. Back on track, no, it’s not realistic to believe the Rams will overhaul their entire offensive line in the middle of the season, but this option exists if they’re willing to go the extremely unconventional route. Their line has let them down during their 3-3 start, and it’s an area that hasn’t gotten enough attention in recent drafts, so they can borrow from future drafts to get themselves heading in a better direction. The Athletic’s beat reporters stockpiled a list of trade candidates last week, and they coincidentally included two tackles, two guards and a center. It all fell into place.

Jones’ why not: Hold up! You just pooh-poohed my Wynn to the Rams idea, so I’m saying absolutely not. Your deal doesn’t work! Haha, in all seriousness, I like the aggressive mindset in completely overhauling the entire offensive line, but I don’t see this happening. I think the Rams would like to address both sides of the ball, and they have only a limited number of draft picks to acquire talent. So, one offensive lineman, yes. And then a pass-rusher, which may require multiple picks to secure.

(Top photo of Brandin Cooks: Cooper Neill / Getty Images)



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Ravens sign WR DeSean Jackson to practice squad

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OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Wide receiver DeSean Jackson will play a 15th season in the NFL after being signed to the Baltimore Ravens’ practice squad on Tuesday, agent Drew Rosenhaus told ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

The expectation is for the 35-year-old Jackson to get elevated on game day and boost the Ravens’ deep-passing game. Last season, Jackson showed he still has speed, averaging 22.7 yards per catch, which is the highest of his 14-year career.

Stretching the field has been a challenge for quarterback Lamar Jackson, who has completed just 21% of his passes that have traveled at least 20 air yards. That’s the second worst in the NFL behind New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (14%).

The Ravens have one of the most unproven wide receiver groups in the NFL. Baltimore has only two wide receivers with double-digit receptions: Devin Duvernay (18) and Rashod Bateman (11).

With Bateman sidelined a second straight game because of a sprained left foot, the Ravens’ wide receivers totaled five catches for 45 yards in Sunday’s 24-20 loss to the Giants. Ravens coach John Harbaugh said Monday that Bateman was “close” to returning.

Jackson, who worked out for the Ravens on Tuesday, becomes the latest 30-or-older wide receiver to be signed by Baltimore over the past six years. He joins Mike Wallace, Michael Crabtree and Dez Bryant.

One of the bigger concerns with Jackson is durability. He played 16 games last season with the Los Angeles Rams and Las Vegas Raiders, but he missed 28 games from 2018 to 2020 because of thumb, ankle and abdominal strain injuries.

Jackson ranks 36th on the NFL’s all-time receiving list with 11,110 yards. He has totaled 632 receptions (18.3-yard average) and has caught 58 touchdown passes.

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Ravens to place safety Marcus Williams (wrist) on IR

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OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The Baltimore Ravens will be without their top free agent addition for an extended period.

Free safety Marcus Williams will go on injured reserve with a dislocated wrist and miss “a significant amount of time,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said Monday. Harbaugh added that it’s not a season-ending injury.

Williams, 26, is tied for second in the NFL with three interceptions this season and leads Baltimore with five passes defensed. He was the Ravens’ biggest splash in free agency this offseason, signing a five-year, $70 million deal after five seasons as a starter for the New Orleans Saints.

Geno Stone, a seventh-round pick in 2020, stepped into Williams’ spot Sunday night, when the Ravens held Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow to 217 yards passing and just one completion over 20 yards. Kyle Hamilton, the No. 14 overall selection in this year’s draft, played only seven snaps in the second half Sunday but he’s considered to be in the mix too.

“Both [Stone and Hamilton] have their own styles, and I think they’re going to both play well for us,” Harbaugh said. “So I’m looking forward to all those guys, as a team [and] as a group, kind of filling in for Marcus and not losing a step on that.”

Williams had been one of the most durable defensive backs in the league. He missed just four games over his first five seasons. Now, Williams becomes the 10th player to go on injured reserve for Baltimore.

Harbaugh believes Williams injured his wrist on one of the first two series Sunday in the 19-17 win over the Cincinnati Bengals.

“He gutted it out,” Harbaugh said. “He didn’t really say too much about it. So I don’t think anybody realized how serious it was until they got inside and took a look at it.”

The Ravens, who have the 31st-ranked pass defense in the NFL, play Daniel Jones and the New York Giants on Sunday.

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Updates on Jaire Alexander, Keenan Allen and others

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7:58 PM ET

  • NFL NationESPN

Week 4 of the NFL season is here, and teams continue to assess injuries to their players ahead of game time.

The San Francisco 49ers have suffered another blow to their offense, as star left tackle Trent Williams is expected to be out four to six weeks with an ankle injury. Linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair will miss time after he sprained an MCL against the Denver Broncos. The New York Giants also lost a key offensive player after wide receiver Sterling Shepard tore an ACL against the Dallas Cowboys on Monday, ending his season.

The New England Patriots will be without quarterback Mac Jones, who suffered a high ankle sprain last week against the Baltimore Ravens. Veteran Brian Hoyer will start Sunday against the Green Bay Packers. He has lost 11 consecutive starts.

In more positive news, New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson is expected to make his 2022 debut against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday. Wilson has been out since the first game of the preseason because of a torn meniscus and a bone bruise in his right knee.

Our NFL Nation reporters have more updates on key players entering the weekend:

Quick links:
Schedule | Depth charts | PickCenter

Injury: Knee

Patterson is officially listed as questionable on the team’s injury report, but he told ESPN on Friday that he plans on playing against the Cleveland Browns.

“I feel like I’m going to play every Sunday, no matter what the situation is,” Patterson said. “I plan on playing Sunday and we all know that’s the plan.”

Patterson, the NFL’s third-leading rusher, did not practice Wednesday or Thursday and was listed as a “resting player/knee.” He returned to practice Friday, did work on a limited basis and then was listed as questionable with a knee injury.

Coach Arthur Smith said Friday that Patterson “looked good,” but that he would assess Patterson’s status Saturday.

— Michael Rothstein

Injury: Ankle

Stanley, who is officially listed as questionable, said he’s “really close” to returning after missing 31 of the past 32 games. He was given a rest day Friday after fully practicing the previous two days. The Ravens could use the 2019 All-Pro left tackle to protect Lamar Jackson’s blind side. If Stanley can’t play, Baltimore would turn to rookie fourth-round pick Daniel Faalele to block Von Miller.

— Jamison Hensley

Injury: Quad

Barring a setback, McCaffrey should be able to go on Sunday after missing Wednesday and Thursday’s practices. McCaffrey returned to practice Friday in a limited role, and coach Matt Rhule said he was “hopeful” his star would be ready. McCaffrey gave no indication he wouldn’t be ready. “I feel great,” he said.

— David Newton

Injury: Knee

Let’s call this take two. It seemed like Gallup would make his debut last Monday against the New York Giants but he wanted some more time to feel right before coming back. He has had another week of full practices, although the Cowboys were not in pads at all this week. Gallup said he needed to clear a mental hurdle in coming back from the surgery. It appears he is trending toward playing vs. Washington, but he will work his way into the lineup on a snap count. They will not give him the full assortment of plays right away, so Noah Brown will continue as the No. 2 receiver with Gallup seeing something of a situational role. Tight end Dalton Schultz is also trending in the right direction of playing after missing the Giants game with a knee sprain. He has worn a brace in practice, and like Gallup, he might be limited in the number of snaps he plays until he is all the way back.

— Todd Archer

Injury: Groin

Patriots backup quarterback Brian Hoyer might have it a little easier if the Packers’ best coverage defensive back doesn’t play. Alexander dropped out of last week’s game at Tampa Bay, did not appear to do much in practice all week and is questionable for Sunday. Rasul Douglas moved from the slot to the outside after Alexander’s injury, and Keisean Nixon filled in in the slot.

— Rob Demovsky

Injury: Back

Leonard is listed as questionable for the first time this season after being ruled out in the previous three games. The recovery from Leonard’s offseason back surgery has lingered, but the tide turned this week.

“He’s had three pretty good days, continued to make progress,” coach Frank Reich said. “So, let’s see how he responds.”

If Leonard plays, the Colts might consider limiting his snaps. “The original thought was he would probably start out on a pitch count, but you don’t want to limit yourself. You just take it day by day and case by case and you kind of adapt as you go,” Reich said.

Injury: Elbow

Buckner is considered questionable and has been severely limited this week. But his history of playing while injured suggests that he’ll find a way to show up on Sunday. Buckner has missed just one game due to injury in his seven seasons.

Injury: Ankle

The Colts’ starting free safety will miss Sunday’s game with an ankle sprain, a development that will likely press seventh-round pick Rodney Thomas II into action. Thomas played well in last week’s game after Blackmon left the contest and impressed coaches.

— Stephen Holder

Injury: Hamstring

Allen suffered a hamstring injury in Week 1, was inactive in Week 2 and 3 and will remain on the sideline Sunday when the Chargers play the Texans. Earlier in the week, coach Brandon Staley expressed growing confidence that Allen would return in Week 4, but said Friday that the veteran receiver “felt something” during individual workouts, so he has been ruled out.

— Lindsey Thiry

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Baltimore Ravens CB Kyle Fuller out for season with torn ACL

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Baltimore Ravens cornerback Kyle Fuller is out for the season after an MRI revealed Monday that he tore his left ACL.

Ravens coach John Harbaugh called the injury “a crazy circumstance on AstroTurf.” Fuller, a two-time Pro Bowl cornerback, was hurt covering Elijah Moore with 1:18 left in Baltimore’s 24-9 win over the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on Sunday.

“He got pushed off and just landed the wrong way,” Harbaugh said. “And the turf doesn’t usually give as much as grass. So that’s what happened.”

Fuller, 30, was playing in his first game for his hometown team. Ravens officials initially thought Sunday there was a chance that Fuller’s injury wasn’t serious, but tests Monday confirmed the ligament tear. Fuller signed a one-year, $2.5 million deal with Baltimore this offseason.

Brandon Stephens, a second-year defensive back, will fill in as a starting cornerback until Marcus Peters is ready. Peters is coming off a season-ending ACL and was inactive Sunday.

Before the Sunday game, Peters was spotted running the stairs of MetLife Stadium.

Asked how close Peters was to playing, Harbaugh said, “I don’t have the measurement on that.”

In recent years, the Ravens have had trouble keeping their cornerbacks healthy. Last year, Baltimore had four cornerbacks finish the season on injured reserve.

In addition to Fuller, the Ravens also lost left tackle Ja’Wuan James for the season in the opener Sunday. He tore his left Achilles tendon late in the second quarter.

Patrick Mekari will replace James at left tackle until Ronnie Stanley (ankle) is ready to play.

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Baltimore Ravens sign K Justin Tucker to four-year extension

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OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Justin Tucker signed a four-year extension with the Baltimore Ravens, the team announced Monday, with a source saying it’s worth $24 million and continues to make Tucker the NFL’s highest-paid kicker.

Tucker, the most accurate kicker in NFL history, will earn an average of $6 million per season, the source said, which is $1 million more per season than any other kicker. Tucker’s new deal comes a week after Chris Boswell signed an extension with the Pittsburgh Steelers that had matched Tucker for being the league’s highest paid kicker at $5 million per season.

Tucker, who had two years left on his current deal, is now signed through 2027 and will receive signing and option bonuses that total $11.5 million, according to the source. The extension also includes $17.5 million guaranteed, the source said, which is $5 million more than any other kicker.

“It means the world to me to continue my career here in Baltimore,” Tucker told the team’s website after signing his deal. “It’s truly special to know I’ll be accounted for, for the next six seasons.”

Tucker, 32, has become one of the NFL’s all-time best kickers in his 10 seasons. Undrafted out of Texas, Tucker currently holds the best field-goal percentage in NFL history (91%) as well as the league’s record for the longest field goal (66 yards).

He has been named to the first-team All-Pro five times, which is two more than any other kicker. Since entering the league in 2012, he ranks first in the NFL in field goals made (326) and points (1,360).

Known for being clutch, Tucker is 16-of-16 on field goals in the final minute of regulation and has converted 58 straight fourth quarter/overtime tries, marking the NFL’s longest active streak. Last season, his record-setting, 66-yard field goal beat the Detroit Lions as time expired in regulation.

Asked about talk that he could be inducted into the Hall of Fame one day, Tucker said, “I really try not to think about that stuff. I really try to make it a point to take it one kick at a time. That’s something that I heard from my agent coming out of college, and it’s some of the best advice I’ve ever gotten, right next to my grandfather when I was trying out for the high school varsity team at Westlake (High school) in Austin; he said, ‘Justin, just kick the damn ball.'”

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NFL training camp updates 2022

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5:40 PM ET

  • ESPN staff

The quarterbacks were the story at camps Tuesday. New Carolina Panthers QB Baker Mayfield hit on a electric deep ball that got fans talking. The Philadelphia Eagles’ Jalen Hurts had his most impressive day so far, and the Joneses — the New York Giants’ Daniel Jones and the New England Patriots’ Mac Jones — logged encouraging days for their teams.

In non-QB news, Kyle Pitts continues to dominate Atlanta Falcons practices. New York Jets rookie running back Breece Hall is coming on strong, showcasing his burst and versatility. And Orlando Brown Jr. practiced for the first time since signing his one-year contract worth almost $16.7 million.

Things are picking up throughout the NFL. Who made a mark Tuesday? Who got dinged up? Who had the most fun?

Here’s what you need to know from camps across the league:

What our NFL Nation reporters saw today

The kicking competition between Lirim Hajrullahu and Jonathan Garibay has gotten off to a slow start. On Tuesday, Garibay made 6 of 8 attempts in special teams drills but missed all three tries from 49, 54 and 59 yards in the special situation portion of the work. Hajrullahu was just 3-of-8 in drills and made one attempt in his situational work.

In three days of kicking, both kickers are 17-of-27.

“That wasn’t [a] confidence builder going against about a 50 mph wind trying them from 60 yards out,” owner and general manager Jerry Jones said. “I was kidding somebody [and said], ‘I just want to see them make extra points and kicks from the 20 and the 30.'”— Todd Archer

It took six practices into training camp, but Lamar Jackson finally threw an interception. Jackson was picked off by safety Tony Jefferson, who made an outstanding play by tipping the ball to himself before pulling it in.

“I don’t know how he got a hand on that ball, in and of itself,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said after practice.

Jackson’s first interception came on what was his sharpest day of the summer. He completed 15 of 19 passes (79%), which included a drop by Rashod Bateman on a deep throw. — Jamison Henley

Bills safety Jordan Poyer suffered an elbow injury during the team’s 11-on-11 drills while tackling rookie running back James Cook. He hyperextended his elbow and will miss a few weeks, a source told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Poyer left the team’s locker room with his left arm inside a shirt and appeared to be wearing a sling. Safety Micah Hyde is also making his way back from hip/glute injury. He has yet to fully participate in practice after suffering the injury Friday. The injuries have opened up opportunities for backups Jaquan Johnson and Damar Hamlin. Johnson seemed to get more opportunities Tuesday with Poyer out, but it will certainly be a competition to watch.

Cornerback Tre’Davious White also continues to progress after tearing his ACL nine months ago. Defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier said that the athletic trainers communicated to him “[White’s] really progressing well and they’re excited about where he is at this point.” — Alaina Getzenberg

Carolina Panthers: Panthers wideout Robby Anderson tweeted “Noooooo” back in April when news came out the Panthers were interested in acquiring quarterback Baker Mayfield from the Cleveland Browns. On Tuesday, teammates and fans were saying “Ooooooh” over a play Anderson made with the former No. 1 overall pick. Mayfield, working with the 1s, threw a strike of about 50 yards that the veteran wide receiver hauled in close to the goal line.

Explosive plays is what you get with Mayfield, and what the Panthers haven’t had in a few years. You also get occasional mistakes. Linebacker Frankie Luvu jumped Mayfield’s pass for an interception late in a two-minute drill. Overall, the day had to go to Mayfield over Sam Darnold, who was working with the 2s, although not by much. In the red zone, Mayfield was 3-for-8 for a touchdown. Darnold was 6-for-8 with two touchdowns and an interception due to an amazing defensive play.

The battle to be the starting QB is still too close to call, but coach Matt Rhule likes how Mayfield has picked up the offense. “We test guys every day,” he said. “His tests come back in the hundreds. He’s a pros pro.” — David Newton

Atlanta Falcons: When the Falcons drafted tight end Kyle Pitts with the No. 4 pick in 2021, the franchise knew he had the potential to be a game-changer and generational player. And while it’s just training camp, the difference in Pitts’ play from a year ago to now is noticeable.

On almost every rep, Pitts is winning off the line of scrimmage and then getting open for the quarterback — both in team and individual drills. The most noticeable one Tuesday came in an individual rep against linebacker Mykal Walker. Pitts accelerated, stopped for the smallest of seconds and then burst past Walker for an easy reception on a deep pass.

The Falcons have a lot of questions this year, but Pitts is not one of them. Through a week, he’s been the most dominant player Atlanta has. It might not be close. — Michael Rothstein

Philadelphia Eagles: Jalen Hurts is heating up. It was the team’s first day in pads and Hurts had his best showing of the summer, highlighted by a 50-plus yard dime to Jalen Reagor, the former first-round pick who is “battling for a spot” on the team, per coach Nick Sirianni.

Hurts followed with a laser over the middle to new battery mate A.J. Brown. Earlier in the session, during one-on-ones, he hit DeVonta Smith down the left sideline, dropping it in over corner James Bradberry. Hurts has been up and down to this point in camp, with the arrow pointing up over the last couple days. — Tim McManus

New York Giants: Daniel Jones had himself a day. His best this summer. By a good margin. It’s a good sign considering the Giants’ offense hadn’t exactly been lighting it up early in camp as they learn Brian Daboll’s offense.

For the most part, the first-team unit and its quarterback have struggled. Not Tuesday, when Jones went 16-of-20 with two touchdowns and two interceptions on a day when wide receiver Kenny Golladay sat out team drills. His replacement, David Sills, did a good chunk of the damage. Sills had five catches in live drills, including a touchdown reception to end the day’s action.

“It felt good being in there,” Sills said. “I think DJ has a good feel for where I’m going to be. A trust for me.”

If not for a late red-zone interception, Jones’ numbers and the offense’s performance would look and feel even better. Overall, still a good day. — Jordan Raanan

Houston Texans: Davis Mills was excellent in Monday’s practice, probably his best day in camp. Mills went 13-for-17 in team drills with two TD throws the red zone team 22 period. He also went 6-6 with four TD passes during 7-on-7 red zone from the 12-yard line period. He led the Texans offense into scoring position during the two-minute drill after facing a 4th and 15. — DJ Bien-Aime

New York Jets: With RB1 Michael Carter sitting out 11-on-11 drills with a minor ankle injury, rookie Breece Hall got a chance to get extensive work with the starters. He rotated with Ty Johnson and rookie Zonovan Knight, but Hall got the most carries.

Listed as 5-foot-11, 217 pounds, Hall is the biggest back on the roster. He showed excellent open-field speed and made a diving catch in a 7-on-7 period. The Jets love his versatility, and he will push Carter for early playing time. Carter is listed as day-to-day. — Rich Cimini

Kansas City Chiefs: After sitting out the first week of camp, left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. signed his one-year contract worth almost $16.7 million and practiced for the first time. Brown stepped immediately into the starting lineup as the Chiefs put him to work during a run-blocking period and later a 1-on-1 pass-blocking drill. Brown departed practice shortly before its end for a conditioning session, which is part of the team’s acclimation plan for Brown, who missed all of offseason practice as well. The plan is to steadily increase his workload. — Adam Teicher

New Orleans Saints: Saints quarterback Jameis Winston had one of his best plays of camp when he hit wide receiver Deonte Harty in stride for a touchdown of at least 50 yards in 11-on-11 drills.

Harty, an All-Pro kick returner, is one of the fastest players on the roster, and he showed off his speed by easily beating safety Justin Evans for the score. Starting safety Tyrann Mathieu, who has been excused from camp for personal reasons, has not returned to the team yet.

Harty joked that he owed Winston one for dropping a pass earlier in camp.

“He knew he wanted to throw it there. He told me exactly what to do and I went out there and did it,” Harty said.

He added: “I never lose stride with Jameis. I’ve got faith in his arm.” — Katherine Terrell

Green Bay Packers: The biggest difference in Jordan Love compared to last year was evident Tuesday. One day after he threw a practicing-ending, pick-six, he came back with perhaps his best performance of camp.

Last year, he might have tried to play it safe after a bad day. This time, he came back firing even with heavy pressure in his face. He didn’t flinch and found his primary targets with two of his best throws of camp: a deep crosser to Sammy Watkins and a perfectly-placed ball that rookie Romeo Doubs caught in spectacular, outstretched fashion for a touchdown in the back corner of the end zone during a red-zone period.

“I think it does show growth,” Love said after practice. “Just to be able to trust that I know where the receiver’s going to be with pressure in my face and still be able to try and slow it down a little bit to focus on where I need to put the ball. When you first get here, I wasn’t able to make those throws under pressure.” — Rob Demovsky

New England Patriots: QB Mac Jones capped off his practice with a touchdown throw to receiver Nelson Agholor that sparked an offensive celebration, but Jones acknowledged that the defense has had more success through the first six practices of camp.

“It’s very competitive and when we lose the day, to me that’s like a shot in the heart,” Jones said. “So better days ahead. You know we’re in the start of this thing and we got to get it going.” — Mike Reiss

Top NFL news of the day

Dolphins stripped of 2023 first-round pick, owner fined $1.5M for tampering with Tom Brady, Sean Payton

The NFL notified the Miami Dolphins on Tuesday that the team would be stripped of its 2023 first-round pick, among other disciplinary measures, for violations of league policies relating to the integrity of the game.

Denver Broncos WR Tim Patrick carted off with right knee injury; team awaiting test results

Broncos wide receiver Tim Patrick, who led the team in touchdown catches last season, was carted off the practice field Tuesday with a right knee injury team officials feared will force the fifth-year player to miss significant time.

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