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If there's one absolute certainty in the 2026 NFL draft, it's that the Las Vegas Raiders will select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick. This one is in the books, right? He's the perfect quarterback for Klint Kubiak's offense, right? Raiders shot-caller Tom Brady sees ...
Philadephia Eagles QB Jalen Hurts found an unlikely defender in controversial former teammate and Super Bowl champion C.J. Gardner-Johnson. The post Controversial Former Eagles Star Defends QB Jalen Hurts appeared first on Heavy Sports.
The Baltimore Ravens have signed 6-foot-4, 223-pound former University of Oklahoma punter Luke Elzinga to its offseason roster. The post Ravens Add 6-foot-4, 223-Pound Special Teams Ace to Roster appeared first on Heavy Sports.
Out-of-the-box thinking and roster building has never been more paramount to finding success in the NFL. Recent examples include the Jacksonville Jaguars taking a two-way player second overall in last year’s draft, the Seattle Seahawks handing the keys of their offense to a former draft bust, and the Los Angeles Rams avoiding owning first-round picks […] The post Out-of-the-box 2026 NFL Draft move that all 32 teams must make appeared first on ClutchPoints.
Ravens' Lamar Jackson makes free agency plea for 3-time Pro Bowler sportingnews.com
Depending on how the 2026 NFL Draft shakes out, the San Francisco 49ers could still need pass rush help for the upcoming season. If the Niners don’t find the players needed to bolster their pass rush, they could turn to the veteran free agent market. One of the names that the 49ers could pursue is […] The post Jadeveon Clowney Gets Strong Ravens Take Amid 49ers Prediction appeared first on Heavy Sports.
The Minnesota Vikings need a WR3 after the departure of Jalen Nailor to the Las Vegas Raiders. With the NFL Draft approaching, they could draft one, or they could head back into free agency and sign a veteran to a manageable contract.One player who has entered the speculation to help fill that WR3 role is […] The post Ravens Land Big Stefon Diggs Take Amid Vikings Prediction appeared first on Heavy Sports.
Gerry Sandusky is making a significant life change. After 42 years in broadcasting, the Baltimore Ravens radio voice and WBAL-TV sports director announced last week that he is stepping down. He will officially retire when he signs off from WBAL-TV on April 17. Sandusky started calling Ravens games as the radio play-by-play announcer in 2006.…
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are taking a look at 6-foot-4, 323-pound offensive lineman and former 1st round pick Kenyon Green. The post Buccaneers Circling 6-foot-4, 323-Pound Former 1st Round Pick appeared first on Heavy Sports.
When you think of NFL greats who had memorable stints with not one, but two teams? Guys like Tom Brady, Drew Brees, and Peyton Manning come to mind. But not all NFL greats flourished after changing teams late in their careers. They looked naturally out of place in a specific jersey, and probably wish to remove all memories of that club. With that, here are 10 NFL greats who played for surprisingly strange teams. Which star NFL players played for an unusual team? Jerry Rice: Seattle SeahawksNov 19, 2006 San Francisco, CA, USA: Former San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jerry Rice soaks in the crowds’ applause during a halftime ceremony to honor Rice’s retirement against the Seattle Seahawks at Monster Park in San Francisco, CA. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports Copyright (c) 2006 Kyle Terada The greatest wide receiver and non-quarterback player in NFL history spent his first 16 seasons with the NFL’s golden franchise, the San Francisco 49ers. The 49ers, having already won two Super Bowls under Bill Walsh and Joe Montana, got even richer after drafting Rice 16th overall in 1985. Rice became the new face of the 49ers’ franchise from there, propelling them to three Super Bowl championships during his Hall of Fame career. But with the 49ers’ glory days in the past, and fellow future Hall of Famer Terrell Owens taking over as their new No. 1 receiver, the front office made the painful decision to cut Rice after 16 years. To his credit, Rice had a nice career revival with the Oakland Raiders. He had to 1,000-yard seasons there and led them to a Super Bowl 37 appearance, where they fell to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Raiders were a fine second act for Rice. But when he was traded to the Seahawks during the 2004 season? It just felt very weird from the beginning. We know, we know. The Seahawks are a relevant and well-respected NFL franchise. Four NFC titles and two Super Bowl championship banners were won over a 20-year period between 2005 and 2025. But you kids have to picture what the Seahawks were like before 2005. Before that season, they hadn’t won a playoff game since 1984. And their fortunes didn’t begin to change until 2002, when NFL realignment shifted the Seahawks to the NFC, making room for the expansion Houston Texans’ franchise to become the AFC’s 16th team. So yes, it was very, very weird when Rice landed with the Seahawks. The NFL’s GOAT at the time just never looked comfortable there. He caught 25 passes for 362 yards and three touchdowns as a Seahawk, retiring after the 2004 season. Emmitt Smith: Arizona CardinalsOct 31, 2004; Orchard Park, NY, USA: FILE PHOTO; Arizona Cardinals running back Emmitt Smith (22) carries the ball against the Buffalo Bills at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Network Ask any NFL fan born in the 21st century if they know who Emmitt Smith played his final two seasons with? Can’t blame the ones if they go with the Dallas Cowboys. We’d guess less than 10 percent would correctly guess the Cardinals. The NFL’s all-time rushing yards and rushing touchdowns leader was the backbone of the Cowboys’ ‘90s dynasty that won three Super Bowls over a four-year period between 1992 and 1995. The four-time rushing champion played his first 13 NFL seasons on America’s Team from 1990 to 2002. In his final season with the Cowboys, Smith rushed for 975 yards and five touchdowns — falling short of the 1K mark for the first time since his rookie year. Knowing Smith’s best days were behind him, the Cowboys made the difficult decision to release him in 2003. Smith wasn’t on the open market for long, as the Cardinals unexpectedly scooped him up on a two-year deal. Smith’s first year with the Cardinals was hampered by injuries. But in his swan song 2004 campaign, the NFL’s rushing kind showed some of that old juice again with 937 rushing yards and nine touchdowns. It’s been more than two decades since Smith played his final NFL snap. And to this day, seeing him in a Cardinals jersey still just doesn’t seem right. Johnny Unitas: San Diego Chargers Long before the likes of Joe Montana, Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, and Aaron Rodgers arrived, Unitas held the title as the greatest quarterback in NFL history. After a failed tryout with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1955, Unitas joined the Baltimore Colts in 1956. The following year, Unitas earned his first of 10 Pro Bowl selections after leading the NFL in passing yards and passing touchdowns. “The Golden Arm” became the NFL’s best quarterback from there. He won three MVP awards and led the Colts to NFL championships in 1958, 1959, and 1968. Unitas also led the Colts to their first Lombardi Trophy, defeating the Dallas Cowboys in Super Bowl V. But in that game, Unitas was knocked out with a rib injury and replaced by Earl Morrall. That put the wheels in motion for Morrall to take over as the starter in the ensuing 1971 season. Unitas was demoted to backup over his final two years in Baltimore. In 1973, he was traded to the San Diego Chargers. Unitas in a Bolts uniform looked bizarre and wrong from the beginning. He went from the face of one of the NFL’s golden franchises to an irrelevant Chargers team. To make matters worse, he was clearly a shell of his former self in 1973, completing 44.7 percent of pass attempts for three touchdowns and seven interceptions. Eventually, the struggling Chargers handed the starting duties to a future Hall of Famer named Dan Fouts. And the rest, as they say, is history. Ed Reed: New York JetsNov 24, 2013; Baltimore, MD, USA; New York Jets safety Ed Reed (22) looks at the scoreboard during the second half against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports Arguably the greatest safety in NFL history, Reed finally reached the mountaintop when his Ravens defeated the 49ers in Super Bowl 47. After winning it all, the Ravens decided to begin a drastic roster overhaul. Franchise GOAT Ray Lewis retired. Anquan Boldin was traded to San Fran. Reed wasn’t retained in free agency, and he wound up signing with the Houston Texans for $15 million over three years. After seven games, Reed was waived by the tanking Texans. Rex Ryan’s Jets claimed Reed off waivers, launching one of the most random pairings in NFL history. Reed finished strong, recording three interceptions and four pass breakups in seven games with the Jets. He retired after the season. Still, images of Reed in a Jets jersey will always be ultra-weird to us. Like, Pete-Davidson-dating-Kim-Kardashian-weird. Terrell Owens: Buffalo BillsDec 27, 2009; Atlanta, GA, USA; Buffalo Bills wide receiver Terrell Owens (81) prepares for a game against the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports T.O. played for five NFL teams in his Hall of Fame career. Everyone knows about his storied eight-year tenure with the 49ers. And his rocky two-year tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles. And for better or worse, nobody forgot about those three years Owens spent with Tony Romo and the Dallas Cowboys. That’s his quarterback! And because his one-year stop with Chad Johnson’s Cincinnati Bengals was such a hysterical flop…it’s hard to forget the photos of T.O. in the black and orange. But the Buffalo Bills? He played there in 2009? Arguably, the best wide receiver of the 2000s really played for one of the NFL’s most dysfunctional franchises. Who was their coach? Who was the quarterback? Can anyone even name another player on those ‘09 Bills? Yeah, it’s true. In his penultimate season, Owens caught 55 passes for 829 yards and five touchdowns. Not bad for a 36-year-old who was stuck on such a bad Buffalo team! But not as bad as his decision off the field in 2021. Adrian Peterson: Detroit LionsJan 3, 2021; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Lions running back Adrian Peterson (28) reacts before the game against the Minnesota Vikings at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports In a way, it’s hard to believe that an all-time great running back like Peterson played for seven NFL teams. I mean, the aforementioned Emmitt Smith only played for two teams. Barry Sanders was a career Lion. Walter Payton only wore a Chicago Bears uniform. Jim Brown only played for the Cleveland Browns. You get the idea by now. Peterson spent his first 10 seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, of course. And fans, unfortunately, remember his first post-Vikings season in 2017, which was split with the Arizona Cardinals and New Orleans Saints. And we remember his two bounce-back campaigns in Washington…and AP splitting his final season with the Seahawks and Titans in 2021. But this dude played for the Lions in 2020? On what planet? Our planet? Oh, okay. AP signed a one-year deal with the Lions ahead of the 2020 season. Even though they were a mess that year, a 35-year-old Peterson still rushed for 604 yards and seven touchdowns. However, off-field issues have plagued him since then. Darrelle Revis: Kansas City ChiefsDec 10, 2017; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Darrelle Revis (24) defends Oakland Raiders wide receiver Johnny Holton (16) in the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports Revis spent eight of his 11 seasons with the Jets, where he carved out a Hall of Fame career. Between his two Jets tenures were one-year stints with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers — cough, forgettable — and the New England Patriots. Jackpot! Revis won his only Super Bowl ring with the Patriots in the 2014 season. After winning it all, Revis returned to the Jets on a multi-year deal in 2015 free agency. Revis’ second stint with the Jets only lasted two years, however. He was released after a dismal 2016 season that saw him get lit up in coverage time and time again. The seven-time Pro Bowler went unsigned through the offseason before the desperate Chiefs signed him to a two-year deal midway through the 2017 campaign. Revis played just five games with KC and was clearly well past his best-before date. He was released after the Chiefs’ Wild Card Round loss to the Titans and retired soon after. Randy Moss: Tennessee TitansNov 28, 2010; Houston, TX, USA; Tennessee Titans wide receiver Randy Moss (84) against the Houston Texans in the fourth quarter at Reliant Stadium. The Texans defeated the Titans 20-0. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports Minnesota Vikings fans fondly remember Moss and his first seven seasons with the club. His second go with the Vikings in 2010? Don’t worry about it. Everyone knows about his somewhat short but sweet three seasons and a bit with the New England Patriots. And who can’t forget Moss and his two years with the Oakland Raiders? It wasn’t great by any means, but certainly hard to forget. And you 49ers fans obviously recall his one-year stint on the West Coast — one that nearly led to a Super Bowl 47 triumph. Of course, John Harbaugh’s Baltimore Ravens had other ideas. But Moss is briefly playing for the Tennessee Titans of all NFL teams? That’s as random as it gets. And yes, it actually did happen. The Patriots traded Moss back to Minnesota early in the 2010 season. After a disappointing stint there, he was waived and picked up by the Titans. He caught six passes for 80 yards and no touchdowns. Ho hum. Not that he was lights-out when he returned to play for the 49ers in 2012. But at least Moss made the odd big play and went to a Super Bowl! Deion Sanders: Baltimore RavensSep 12, 2004; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Baltimore Ravens #37 Deion Sanders on the field in the first half at Cleveland Browns Stadium.Cleveland Browns beat the Baltimore Ravens 20-3.Mandatory Credit: Photo by Matthew Emmons-US PRESSWIRE (©) Copyright 2004 by Matthew Emmons Sanders is one of the rare legendary athletes who is synonymous with not one, not two, but three (!) NFL teams. Kind of like LeBron James… King James is synonymous with the Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat, and Cleveland Cavaliers. “Prime Time” is best remembered for his storied tenures with the Atlanta Falcons, San Francisco 49ers, and Dallas Cowboys. Sanders spent his first five seasons in Atlanta. Then he joined the 49ers in 1994 free agency, won his first Super Bowl, and then signed with the Cowboys in 1995. Sanders won his second ring that year and would stay with America’s Team through the 1999 season. Now, some of you might remember that Sanders spent one season with Washington in 2000. But after completing just one season of the seven-year, $56 million deal he signed in free agency, Prime Time retired. And so was the end of a storied career. Or not. After three years away from football, Sanders un-retired to join the Baltimore Ravens in 2004. As great as Ray Lewis and Ed Reed were in those Ravens uniforms? Man, did Sanders look more out of place than Adam Banks when he was briefly on the Varsity Team in “D3: The Mighty Ducks.” Sanders had two underwhelming campaigns in Baltimore before retiring permanently after the 2005 season. He’s now coaching Colorado and making headlines again. Joe Namath: Los Angeles RamsSep 18, 1977; Atlanta, GA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Los Angeles Rams quarterback Joe Namath (12) against the Atlanta Falcons at Fulton County Stadium. The Falcons defeated the Rams 17-6. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports Some Hall of Fame quarterbacks just never knew when it was time to retire. We already talked about Johnny Unitas. And y’all remember the Brett Favre on-again/off-again retirement-unretirement-retirement circus. But among these three, nobody failed to read the writing on the wall worse than Joe Namath. It doesn’t take away his remarkable contributions to the New York Jets’ franchise. But man, the story would have been a lot nicer if he spent his entire career in a Jets uniform. The No. 1 pick of the 1965 AFL Draft completely changed the dynamic of the Jets franchise, leading them to a Super Bowl 3 victory over the heavily favored Baltimore Colts. That one game alone cemented Broadway Joe’s status as a New York icon. Unfortunately, injuries and inconsistent production derailed Namath’s last two seasons with the Jets. He was waived in 1977 and was picked up by the Los Angeles Rams Namath had next to nothing left in that arm, though. He completed less than 50 percent of pass attempts and had three touchdowns against five interceptions. The Rams saw enough and benched him for Pat Haden, who rallied them to the postseason. Namath finally retired after the 1977 season, but not before the one forgettable and totally random stint with LA.
Lamar Jackson's decision to delay his contract extension could force the Baltimore Ravens into a massive future overpay.
The Baltimore Ravens might not be done adding pieces in free agency. Three-time Pro Bowler defensive end Jadeveon Clowney recently said he would “definitely be open” to returning to Baltimore, and Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson had a simple one-word response when asked if he would want Clowney back. “Definitely,” Jackson responded on X. Definitely — … The post Lamar Jackson had one word on a possible reunion with a former No. 1 pick appeared first on Larry Brown Sports.
A Pro Football Focus analyst called out ex-New York Jets OL John Simpson for being overpaid by the Baltimore Ravens in free agency. The post Jets Free Agent That Skipped Town for Ravens Called out as an ‘Overpay’ appeared first on Heavy Sports.
Free agent signings in the NFL are a massive hit-or-miss for all teams; sometimes, teams make a massive home run, and other times, some free agents flop with their new teams. However, each team has developed talent that they regret letting walk and sign with another team, just to watch them succeed elsewhere, while other teams rebuild or collapse. It’s always painful to see our favorite NFL teams let Pro Bowl-caliber talent walk, but it’s tragically part of the business. Here is Every NFL Team’s Biggest Free Agency Regret. Which players did each NFL team regret losing in free agency? Arizona Cardinals: Calais CampbellNov 9, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Calais Campbell (93) looks on before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images The Cardinals let him walk after the 2016 season, after he posted 53 tackles, eight sacks, a safety, six pass deflections, an interception, two forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries, with one of them returned for a 53-yard touchdown. Campbell signed with the Jaguars and saw his numbers improve with 67 tackles, 14.5 sacks, three pass deflections, three forced fumbles, a fumble recovery returned for a 10-yard touchdown, and helped the Jags earn a 10-6 record and reach the AFC Championship game. Now, he’s on the trade rumors again. Atlanta Falcons: Deion SandersNov 14, 1993; Atlanta, GA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Atlanta Falcons defensive back Deion Sanders (21) in action against the Los Angeles Rams at Fulton County Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Photo By USA TODAY Sports Deion “Primetime” Sanders was electrifying during his tenure with the Falcons, helping them reach the playoffs in the 1991 season, making three Pro Bowls with the franchise, and was a true highlight reel. Then Sanders grew frustrated with the losing seasons, and financial disagreements led his former NFL team to let him go. He signed with the 49ers in the 1994 season and helped them win Super Bowl XXIX over the Chargers. Baltimore Ravens: Tyler LinderbaumJun 10, 2025; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum (64) looks on during an NFL OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images Linderbaum was the focal point of the Ravens’ offensive line in the 2020s, making three Pro Bowls and protecting Lamar Jackson with ease. The Ravens declined Linderbaum’s fifth-year option and couldn’t match the offer the Raiders made him, as he signed a four-year, $81 million deal with the Silver and Black. Linderbaum is one guy the Ravens are going to regret losing in free agency. Buffalo Bills: Leonard FloydNov 26, 2023; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Buffalo Bills defensive end Leonard Floyd (56) in the tunnel against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports Floyd’s time in Western New York may have been short, but he made the most of it with 32 tackles, 10.5 sacks, a pass deflection, and a forced fumble during the 2023 season. The Bills released Floyd due to a combination of salary cap constraints and Floyd’s desire to get paid more. He then signed a two-year, $20 million deal with the 49ers in the 2024 season, but the 49ers had an injury-riddled season. Carolina Panthers: Steve Smith Sr.Oct 6, 2019; Charlotte, NC, USA; Former Carolina Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. speaks during the Hall of Honor ceremony during halftime against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports Smith Sr. is considered the greatest Panther of all time, as he helped the team reach Super Bowl XXXVIII, made five Pro Bowls with the team, and holds the NFL team’s receiving yard record. The Panthers let Smith Sr. walk after the 2013 season and watched him sign a three-year, $11.5 million deal with the Ravens, helping them reach the 2014-15 AFC Divisional Round. Chicago Bears: Robbie GouldDec 27, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Chicago Bears kicker Robbie Gould (9) kicks a field goal against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports Gould was the Bears’ Pro Bowl kicker who helped the Bears reach Super Bowl XLI during his tenure. Not to mention, he’s widely considered the best kicker for this NFL team. The Bears released Gould due to a decline in performance while looking for a younger kicker. He signed with the Giants and helped them reach the 2016-17 playoffs. Cincinnati Bengals: Andrew WhitworthFormer Bengal Andrew Whitworth watches the final minutes in the fourth quarter of the NFL Week 4 game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Miami Dolphins at PayCor Stadium in downtown on Thursday, Sept. 29, 2022. The Bengals improved to 2-2 with a 27-15 win over the Dolphins. Miami Dolphins At Cincinnati Bengals Week 4 Withworth commanded the Bengals’ offensive line for most of his career, made three Pro Bowls with the team, and started in 164 games for them. The Bengals let him go due to age, the desire to sign younger talent, and their lack of interest in offering a multi-year deal. The Rams signed Whitworth, made one more Pro Bowl, and helped them win Super Bowl LVI against the Bengals. Cleveland Browns: Alex MackDec 13, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns center Alex Mack (55) makes a block for a Cleveland Browns third quarter touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Browns defeated the 49ers 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Scott R. Galvin-USA TODAY Sports Mack was a three-time Pro Bowler with the Browns, started in 85 regular-season games with the team, and showed iron-man toughness. Mack left the Browns in 2016, after voiding his contract, making him a free agent, and signed a five-year, $45 million contract with the Falcons, helping them reach Super Bowl LI. Dallas Cowboys: DeMarcus WareOct 6, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; American football player Demarcus Ware before the game between the Las Vegas Raiders against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images Ware was a defensive juggernaut with the Cowboys, making seven Pro Bowls and holding the franchise record in sacks with 117. They let him go due to salary cap constraints and injury concerns. Ware signed a three-year, $30 million deal with the Broncos and helped them reach the playoffs twice, helping them win Super Bowl 50. Denver Broncos: Eric DeckerFeb 2, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Eric Decker (87) is tackled by Seattle Seahawks linebacker Heath Farwell (55) in the third quarter in Super Bowl XLVIII at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports Decker was an offensive NFL star for the Broncos, who shone when Peyton Manning joined the team in 2012, and helped the team reach Super Bowl XLVIII. However, the Broncos let Decker walk due to salary cap constraints and the need to pay other key guys, and signed more defensive talent. Decker signed a five-year, $36.25 million contract with the Jets and had some good moments with them, but the Jets weren’t able to reach the playoffs during his tenure. Detroit Lions: Carlton Davis IIIDetroit Lions cornerback Carlton Davis III (23) waves at fans after 24-6 win over Indianapolis Colts during the second half at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind. on Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024. Davis III’s time in Detroit was short, but he made the most of his time there, helping the team earn a 15-2 record and reach the NFC Divisional Round. He ended up walking away from the Lions due to a disagreement in contract language and signed a three-year, $60 million contract with the Patriots. Davis helped the Pats reach Super Bowl LX, while the Lions missed the playoffs. Green Bay Packers: Greg JenningsGreen Bay Packers wide receiver Greg Jennings celebrates his game-winning 82-yard touchdown reception in overtime during their game against the Denver Broncos Monday, October 29, 2007 at Invesco Field at Mile High in Denver, Colo. Jennings was a mainstay on the Packers’ offense in the late 2000s and early 2010s, helping the team win Super Bowl XLV and making two Pro Bowls. The Packers let Jennings walk due to salary cap constraints, his age, and injury concerns. Jennings signed a five-year, $47.5 million contract with the rival Vikings and saw some success with them. Houston Texans: Glover QuinNovember 18, 2012; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans strong safety Glover Quin (29) reacts after a play during overtime against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports Quin was dependable and versatile during his tenure with the Texans, helping the team reach the NFL playoffs in back-to-back seasons. The Texans let Quin walk due to a tight salary cap, and he ended up signing a five-year, $23.5 million deal with the Lions, where he made a Pro Bowl and helped them reach the playoffs in 2014 and 2016. Indianapolis Colts: Peyton ManningDec 26, 2010; Oakland, CA, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning (18) gestures during the game against the Oakland Raiders at the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum. The Colts defeated the Raiders 31-26. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-USA TODAY Sports Manning did it all for the Colts, earning four MVPs, leading the team to win Super Bowl XLI, and making them a playoff juggernaut during his tenure. After Manning sat out the 2011 season recovering from neck surgery, the Colts let him walk, and he signed a five-year, $96 million deal with the Broncos, making them playoff juggernauts, won one more MVP, and helped them win Super Bowl 50. Could his son be next? Jacksonville Jaguars: Allen Robinson IIDec 24, 2016; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson (15) runs the ball during the first quarter of an NFL Football game against the Tennessee Titans at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports Robinson II was one of the Jaguars’ most productive wideouts for the team, whose 2017 season was cut short due to an ACL injury. The Jaguars let Robinson II walk due to concerns about his ACL injury, financial considerations, and a chance to reset the passing attack. Robinson II signed a three-year, $42 million contract with the Bears and helped the team reach the NFL playoffs twice. Kansas City Chiefs: Tyrann MathieuJan 30, 2022; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs free safety Tyrann Mathieu (32) reacts after a play against the Cincinnati Bengals during the third quarter of the AFC Championship Game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports Mathieu was transformative for the Chiefs’ defense; he helped the franchise win Super Bowl LIV and made two Pro Bowls during his time with the team. The Chiefs let Mathieu walk to focus on getting younger, signing Justin Reid instead. Mathieu signed a three-year, $28.3 million deal with the Saints, where he performed very well in his final years in the league. Las Vegas Raiders: Josh JacobsDec 10, 2023; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs (8) walks off the field after the Raiders were defeated by the Minnesota Vikings 3-0 at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports Jacobs was a workhorse during his tenure with the Silver and Black, making two Pro Bowls and helping the team reach the playoffs in 2021. The Raiders let Jacobs walk due to the team not meeting his contract demands and wanting a cheaper running back. Jacobs signed a four-year, $48 million deal with the Packers, helped them reach the playoffs in 2024 and 2025, and made a Pro Bowl. But trade rumors still swirl about him. Los Angeles Chargers: Hunter HenryDec 17, 2020; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Los Angeles Chargers tight end Hunter Henry (86) reacts after making a catch against the Las Vegas Raiders during the first half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports Henry brought a ton of production and was very reliable for the Bolts during his tenure with the team. The Chargers let him walk due to salary cap constraints, refusing to use a second consecutive franchise tag on him. Henry signed with the Patriots in 2021 and has formed great chemistry with Drake Maye, and helped the team reach Super Bowl LX. Los Angeles Rams: London FletcherDec 22, 2013; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins inside linebacker London Fletcher (59) waves to fans while leaving the field after the Redskins’ game against the Dallas Cowboys at FedEx Field. The Cowboys won 24-23. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports Fletcher was a cornerstone of the “Greatest Show on Turf” era Rams that helped the team win Super Bowl XXXIV, and was very productive in the NFL. The Rams let Fletcher walk as they dealt with financial constraints, and re-signed Leonard Little instead. Fletcher signed with the Bills and had 12 more productive seasons under his belt, a move the Rams would regret. Miami Dolphins: Cameron WakeMiami Dolphins defensive end Cameron Wake (91) takes New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) to the turf forcing an incompletion in the second quarter at Sun Life Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida on September 7, 2014. (Allen Eyestone / The Palm Beach Post) New England Patriots Vs Miami Dolphins Wake was an anchor on the Dolphins’ defense, made five Pro Bowls, and had 98 sacks with the franchise. The Dolphins made Wake walk due to his age and wanting to do a roster overhaul for a massive rebuild. Wake signed with the Titans and helped them reach the 2020 AFC Championship game. Minnesota Vikings: Adam ThielenAug 8, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Adam Thielen (19) looks on during the third quarter against the Oakland Raiders at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Raiders 10-6. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports Thielen was a homegrown talent who joined the Vikings as an undrafted free agent in 2013, made two Pro Bowls, and helped the team reach the 2018 NFC Championship game. The Vikings let Thielen walk in free agency due to salary cap constraints and a desire to get younger at the position. Thielen signed with the Panthers and was their lone bright spot in his two NFL seasons with the team. New England Patriots: Wes WelkerOct 14, 2007; Irving, TX, USA; New England Patriots receiver Wes Welker (83) runs for a second quarter touchdown past Dallas Cowboys linebacker Bradie James (56) at Texas Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports Welker emerged as a superstar slot receiver for the Pats in the late 2000s and early 2010s, helping the team reach two Super Bowls and making five Pro Bowls. Welker was forced to walk from the Patriots due to salary cap constraints and age. HDanny Amendola and Julian Edelman replaced him. Welker signed with the Broncos and helped them reach Super Bowl XLVIII during his short tenure with them. New Orleans Saints: Malcolm JenkinsJan 9, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; New Orleans Saints safety Malcolm Jenkins (27) on the field after defeating the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports Jenkins was a mainstay on the Saints’ offense, helping the team win Super Bowl XLIV in the NFL, and was highly impactful and durable. The Saints let Jenkins walk due to a misjudgment in his long-term value, and he ended up signing with the Eagles, helping them win Super Bowl LII. The Saints later admitted they regretted making Jenkins walk. New York Giants: Saquon BarkleySep 30, 2018; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) rushes in the first half of against the New Orleans Saints at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Danielle Parhizkaran/NorthJersey.com via USA TODAY NETWORK Barkley was a next-level talent for the Giants at running back, as he earned two Pro Bowls with the team, and bulldozed his way to the end zone. Barkley walked because the Giants weren’t willing to pay his high salary to a 27-year-old running back. He signed with their rivals, the Eagles, in 2024, helping them win Super Bowl LIX. Will the Eagles make the same mistake this offseason? New York Jets: Frankie LuvuDec 27, 2020; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets linebacker Frankie Luvu (50) celebrates a defensive stop against the Cleveland Browns during the first quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports Luvu was serviceable and was a special-teams contributor for “Gang Green” in the NFL. The Jets let Luvu walk because they didn’t see him as a core defensive player for the unit, so the Panthers signed him, and he has emerged as a reliable pass-rusher for them and the Commanders. Philadelphia Eagles: Nick FolesSep 16, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Former Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Nick Foles before a game against the Atlanta Falcons at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images Though Foles left the Eagles in 2014, his return to the team was the best, as he helped the team win Super Bowl LII and won MVP of the game. Then, Foles left the team in 2019 and signed a four-year, $88 million deal with the Jaguars, but ended up getting injured, while the Eagles reached the wildcard round of the playoffs that year. Pittsburgh Steelers: Rod WoodsonUnknown date; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Rod Woodson (26) celebrates an interception at Three Rivers Stadium. Mandatory Credit: USA TODAY Sports Woodson was a focal point for the Steelers’ defense in the 1980s and 90s NFL era, helping the team reach Super Bowl XXX, and he made six Pro Bowls with the team. The Steelers made him walk due to his age and pivoted towards younger players. Woodson signed with the 49ers, the Ravens, and the Raiders, and helped the Ravens win Super Bowl XXXV, and made a few more Pro Bowls. San Francisco 49ers: Deion Sanders4. Deion Sanders, San Francisco 49ers (1994) G1focus28 3c Deion Sanders S Fbn Usa Ca Sanders’ time in the Bay Area was short, but he made the most of it, as he helped the team win Super Bowl XXIX and dominated on defense. The 49ers let Sanders walk due to salary cap restrictions. He ended up signing with the Cowboys, helping them win Super Bowl XXX, and four more Pro Bowls in Dallas. Seattle Seahawks: Golden TateDec 2, 2013; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Golden Tate (81) celebrates a touchdown by a teammate against the New Orleans Saints during the first quarter at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports Tate was a focal point on the Seahawks’ offense that won Super Bowl XLVIII and was one of Russell Wilson’s favorite targets. The Seahawks let him walk, not wanting to overpay for the wideout. So, the Lions signed Tate to a five-year, $31 million deal, saw Tate make a Pro Bowl, and helped them reach the playoffs in 2014 and 2016. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: John LynchUnknown date, 1995; Tampa, FL USA; FILE PHOTO; Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive back John Lynch (47) celebrates on the field at Houlihan’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: RVR Photos-USA TODAY Sports Lynch was an elite safety who helped the Bucs win their first Super Bowl in 2003 and delivered legendary hits against opposing offenses. The Bucs released him due to a combination of injury concerns and salary cap considerations. He ended up signing with the Chargers and helped them reach the 2008 AFC Championship game. Tennessee Titans: Derrick HenryTennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) is set to push off Oakland Raiders strong safety T.J. Carrie (38) at Nissan Stadium in Nashville on Sept. 10, 2017. The Titans lost their home and season opener 26-16. Henry is a generational running back whose bruising runs made it difficult for defenders to take him down, as he helped the team reach the 2020 AFC Championship game in the NFL. The Titans released him, looking to rebuild and implement a more pass-happy offense. He signed a two-year, $16 million deal with the Ravens and bolstered their rushing attack. Washington Commanders: Kirk CousinsAug 18, 2012; Chicago, IL, USA; Washington Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins (12) during the second half against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field. The Bears won 33-31. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports Cousins was Washington’s backup quarterback from 2012 until he was given the keys to the offense in 2015, after RGIII was out due to injuries. He helped the team win the NFC East and reach the Wildcard Round that season. Cousins was allowed to leave Washington after declining to use a franchise tag for the third straight year, allowing him to sign with the Vikings on a three-year, $84 million deal, where he elevated his game to another level.
The Baltimore Ravens backing out of the Maxx Crosby trade sparked rival accusations of deliberate slow-play manipulation.
Fox Sports's Rob Rang projected the Pittsburgh Steelers to trade up in front of the Baltimore Ravens to snag Penn State offensive lineman Vega Ioane. The post Steelers Predicted to Steal ‘Fan Favorite’ From Ravens With Bold NFL Draft Trade appeared first on Heavy Sports.
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones is speaking up again about the Maxx Crosby trade pitch, and he's getting strong reaction. The post Cowboys’ Jerry Jones Draws Strong Reaction for Maxx Crosby Comments appeared first on Heavy Sports.
“Does this fix fumbling issue” “Do a real deadlift”: NFL fans mock Derrick Henry as Ravens RB flexes offseason workout Sportskeeda
The Baltimore Ravens are focused on a new direction under head coach Jesse Minter, and their 2026 NFL Draft guide is here to get you ready for the upcoming annual seven-round selection meeting. Ahead of this crucial week, let’s look at the Ravens’ draft picks, biggest needs, potential targets, and recent draft history. The draft […] The post Ravens 2026 NFL Draft guide: Number of picks, biggest needs, draft history, and more appeared first on ClutchPoints.
NFL legend DeAndre Hopkins had a message after retirement news on Thursday.
Lamar Jackson responded when asked about the reunion with Jadeveon Clowney after the free agent edge rusher pitched a return to Baltimore.
Jadeveon Clowney posted one of his best statistical seasons in his lone year with the Ravens, so a reunion could make sense for both sides.
The Baltimore Ravens’ three-round mock draft has been released by ESPN. The team is urged to address offensive and defensive needs.The Baltimore Ravens have the 14th pick in the first round of the draft. According to ESPN, the mock draft has the Ravens selecting cornerback Jermod McCoy out of the University of Tennessee.“Marlon Humphrey is […] The post Ravens Urged to Address Major Needs in Upcoming NFL Draft appeared first on Heavy Sports.
Every NFL team has that ONE thing. That pattern they just can’t seem to break, no matter how hard they try… or how many times it burns them. Some of these habits are funny, others are painful, and a certain subsection is just flat-out baffling. But here’s the thing… fans already know what their team’s bad habit is. They’ve lived it, screamed at their TVs about it, and taken to social media to post about it! Today, we’re going through all 32 NFL teams and calling out their favorite bad habit. Let’s dive in. What are the bad habits for each NFL team? Arizona Cardinals Ownership FutilityJan 5, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of an Arizona Cardinals helmet at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images The Bidwill family has owned the Cardinals since 1972. In that time, they’ve had just 11 seasons above .500… That’s right around 20% of the time… Yikes. There have been brief glimpses of hope, but they never last long because the franchise’s dysfunction always leaks in and kills the seed of success before it can really bloom. Some franchises have bad luck. The Cardinals have bad ownership. Atlanta Falcons: Misusing StarsAug 15, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons helmet on the sideline against the Tennessee Titans in the first quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images This one dates back to the days of Julio Jones—when Atlanta simply could not get one of the best receivers in the league the ball in the endzone! Now it is guys like Drake London, Bijan Robinson, and Kyle Pitts… super athletic, talented playmakers—that any team would kill for, but Atlanta can’t quite figure out how to utilize properly. Baltimore Ravens: Losing in JanuaryJan 11, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; A view of Baltimore Ravens players’ helmets on a heated bench against the Pittsburgh Steelers in an AFC wild card game at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images Lamar Jackson is a two-time MVP. One of the most electric players in football. In the regular season, he’s nearly unstoppable versus other NFL teams. But January hits… and something changes. The turnovers spike, the efficiency drops—and the Ravens lose their identity—and, unfortunately, quite a few playoff games in the process. Buffalo Bills: Losing to the Chiefs when it CountsJan 26, 2025; Kansas City, MO, USA; A detailed view of the Buffalo Bills helmet before the AFC Championship game against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images Josh Allen is a top-five quarterback, and Buffalo has made the playoffs consistently… But there’s one problem… Kansas City. The Bills are 0 and 4 against the Chiefs in the playoffs, while going 4 and 1 against them in the regular season. They can beat KC when it doesn’t matter. When does it? Heartbreak every single time. Luckily for Bills fans, they won’t have to worry about Mahomes and co. In the 2025 postseason! Carolina Panthers: Impatient OwnershipCarolina Panthers helmet (Photo By Eric Hartline-Imagn Images) David Tepper bought the Panthers in 2018. Since then, he’s fired three head coaches—Rivera, Rhule, and Reich. Then he forced the team to trade up to draft Bryce Young first overall in 2023—only to push for his benching in Year 2. I respect that Tepper wants to win now. But every time he forces the issue, it sets this NFL team back further. Chicago Bears: Ruining Young QuarterbacksNov 3, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Chicago Bears helmet at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Chicago is where quarterbacks go to die. Caleb Williams’ father actually said that before the draft, and though Caleb has a chance to buck the trend, he wasn’t wrong. We just saw it with Mitch Trubisky… let’s hope the talented USC quarterback isn’t the next victim. Cincinnati Bengals: Bringing in Players With-Off-the-Field IssuesDec 1, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; A general view of the helmet of Cincinnati Bengals long snapper Cal Adomitis (48) during warmups before the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images Back in the mid-2000s, the Bengals had a… let’s call it a reputation problem… It seemed like half their roster had a rap sheet. It has gotten a little bit better, but this NFL team can’t seem to shake the trend fully, a la their decision to keep Jermaine Burton in January of ‘25. Cleveland Browns: Churning and Burning QuarterbacksNov 17, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Detailed view of the Cleveland Browns helmets on a time out against the New Orleans Saints during the first half at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images Here’s a stat that will make you sad… the Browns have started 42 different quarterbacks since 1999. Forty-two. Insane… The Factory of Sadness keeps churning. And until they figure out the quarterback position, nothing changes. Dallas Cowboys: Living in the PastDallas Cowboys helmets (Photo via Geoff Burke-Imagn Images) America’s Team hasn’t reached an NFC Championship since 1995, and they are going to spend the 2025 postseason on their couches yet again. But that doesn’t stop Jerry Jones from continuing to say “this is our year,” even though it hasn’t closed since the turn of the millennium. Denver Broncos: Can’t Draft Wide ReceiversOct 12, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; A general view of a Denver Broncos helmet against the Kansas City Chiefs prior to a game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports Since Demaryius Thomas and Eric Decker in 2010, the Broncos have whiffed on nearly every wide receiver they’ve drafted, with Courtland Sutton in 2018 being the lone exception. Cody Latimer. Carlos Henderson. Jerry Jeudy. KJ Hamler. All busts. Now it looks like Marvin Mims and Troy Franklin are the latest disappointments. Detroit Lions: HeartbreakHelmet of Detroit Lions place kicker Jake Bates (not in the photo) before the NFC divisional round between Detroit Lions and Washington Commanders] at Ford Field in Detroit on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025. The Lions are good now. Really good. But they still find ways to rip your heart out. In 2024, they blew a 17-point halftime lead in the NFC Championship—the largest comeback in conference championship history. In 2025, as the one-seed with 15 wins, they lost to the six-seed Commanders after Jared Goff threw four interceptions. The talent is there now for this NFL team. The results are better. But Detroit is still Detroit when it matters most. Green Bay Packers: Neglecting Special TeamsDec 29, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; A Green Bay Packers helmet sits ready before the game against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images The organization just doesn’t care about Special Teams. And it keeps costing them. Both in the regular season, where they’ve ranked towards the bottom of the league for years… and the postseason, where the third unit has cost them big-time… like the botched onside kick in 2014 or getting a field goal and punt blocked in 2014. Houston Texans: Power Tripping ExecsAug 9, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; A Houston Texans helmet sits on the sidelines during the 4th quarter against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-USA TODAY Sports The Texans have a habit of giving the wrong people too much power. Bill O’Brien convinced ownership to let him be head coach AND general manager. He promptly traded DeAndre Hopkins—one of the best receivers in the league—for a washed running back and some mid-round picks. Then there was Jack Easterby, a former team chaplain who somehow worked his way into the front office and had ownership’s ear on football decisions. The inmates were running the asylum. Houston’s problem isn’t talent… It’s trusting the wrong people to run the organization around it. Indianapolis Colts: Can’t Quit Veteran QuarterbacksDec 1, 2024; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; An Indianapolis Colts helmet sits on an equipment case during the first half against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images Andrew Luck retired in 2019. And ever since, the Colts have refused to actually develop a young quarterback. Instead? They’ve brought in Philip Rivers at 38. Matt Ryan. Joe Flacco. And in 2025, Daniel Jones… then Philip Rivers AGAIN! This time, at 44 years old—59 months since his last NFL snap—because Jones tore his Achilles. Yes, they tried and failed with Anthony Richardson, but at some point, the Colts have to figure out how to get a quarterback of the future. Jacksonville Jaguars: Hiring Crazy CoachesNov 3, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars helmets on the sidelines against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images The Jaguars have had five head coaches since Shad Khan bought the team—and let’s just say—they have a type… crazy. Urban Meyer lasted 13 games before the scandals caught up to him—kicked his kicker, got caught at a bar with a woman who wasn’t his wife, and lost the locker room completely. Doug Pederson threatened to fight a reporter… then Liam Coen showed up to Duval with one of the most bizarre Duuuvaaal cries we’ve ever seen! Kansas City Chiefs: Expecting Mahomes to Figure It OutFeb 9, 2025; New Orleans, LA, USA; Detailed view of a Kansas City Chiefs helmet in Super Bowl LIX at Ceasars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images The Chiefs have won three Super Bowls. Nobody’s feeling sorry for them. But their approach to skill position players is… interesting—to put it lightly. They’d rather just let Mahomes try and figure it out rather than invest in the kind of talent to make his life easier! And to his credit, he has done a pretty good job to date, but as we’ve seen in 2025, he is only human, and KC might be wise to put some real supporting pieces around him. Las Vegas Raiders: Drafting Fast ReceiversAug 23, 2024; Paradise, Nevada, USA; A Las Vegas Raiders Riddell speedflex helmet on the field at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports Al Davis had a type. Fast. Very fast. He drafted the fastest player at the combine in his final three drafts from 2009 to 2011. Darrius Heyward-Bey went seventh overall in 2009—ran a 4.30—picked before Michael Crabtree and Jeremy Maclin. And his son Mark seems to have continued the trend, like we saw when he took Henry Ruggs and his 4.27 speed 12th overall in 2020. What makes it all the more painful is they took Ruggs over CeeDee Lamb and Justin Jefferson… Yikes. Speed is great for each NFL team. But you have to actually be able to play football, too. Los Angeles Chargers: ChargeringAug 12, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Chargers helmets on the bench at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports The term “Chargering” exists for a reason… It seems that, regardless of the players on the field, the coaches calling the plays, or even the city they play in, this team always finds a way to lose in the most shocking fashion. There is perhaps no better example than the 2010 season, when the Chargers finished first in offense AND first in defense… and missed the playoffs because they had the worst special teams in the NFL. Los Angeles Rams: Mortgaging the FutureJan 19, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Los Angeles Rams helmet on the sidelines against the Philadelphia Eagles in a 2025 NFC divisional round game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images While they’ve softened on it a bit the last couple of years, trying to get younger, the Rams’ philosophy is clear… They have no issue trading all of their draft capital for stars. Win now. Worry about the future later. And it worked! They won Super Bowl 56, but when it goes wrong… it goes wrong in a major way, like 2022, when they were 5 and 12 and looked every bit the part of one of the oldest teams in the league. Miami Dolphins: Can't Win When It's ColdAug 3, 2022; Miami Gardens, Florida, US; A general view of a Miami Dolphins helmet on the field during training camp at Baptist Health Training Complex. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports South Beach is warm. Beautiful weather year-round. Perfect for football… unless you have to play anywhere else in January. The Dolphins are 0 and 10 in games under 40 degrees since 2017… and more often than not it isn’t close… instead, they look sad and cold, and get their doors beat off. No wonder this team can’t win once the NFL playoffs come around! Minnesota Vikings: Losing in the NFC Championship GameJan 13, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Detailed view of a Minnesota Vikings helmet during an NFC wild card game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images The Vikings have lost six consecutive NFC Championship games, which makes for the longest streak in the NFL. Six times they were just one game away from the Super Bowl—and it always seems to be in heartbreaking fashion, time and time again… like the Wide Right overtime loss in ‘99 and a couple of walloping’s mixed in. New England Patriots: Drafting Wide Receivers that Never Pan OutPatriots Helmet (Photo By Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports) New England cannot draft wide receivers to save their lives. Since 2000, the Patriots have drafted 18 wide receivers and, really, only Deion Branch and Julian Edelman turned into stars—and Demario Douglas has been serviceable. The rest of the lot—like N’Keal Harry, their first-rounder in 2019, and Tyquan Thornton, who went in Round 2 of 2022, however, is a mess. New Orleans Saints: Ignoring the Salary CapDec 23, 2024; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; General view of a New Orleans Saints helmet during the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images New Orleans Saints: Kicking the Can Down the Road. The Saints spent years pushing cap hits into the future to stay competitive during the Drew Brees era. Now the bill has come due. They’ve been in cap hell for three straight offseasons—cutting veterans, restructuring deals, doing whatever it takes just to field a roster. Brees got his ring. But the franchise is still paying for it… literally. New York Giants: Scared of ChangeOct 28, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; New York Giants helmets on the sidelines against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the third quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images The Giants hold on too long… Every single time they do it! Tom Coughlin stayed two years past his expiration date. Eli Manning got a few more seasons than he should have. And don’t get me started on Daniel Jones and Brian Daboll! It feels like New York sees the writing on the wall… and then waits another year to read it without fail. New York Jets: Wasting Premium Draft PicksAug 17, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; New York Jets helmets during the second half against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports Speaking of graveyards… the Jets have turned squandering premium draft picks into an art form. Sam Darnold went third overall in 2018. Zach Wilson went second overall in 2021, making the Jets’ first team since 1967 to draft two quarterbacks with top-3 picks within four years… yet here they are in 2025 still staring down a top draft pick and without a franchise quarterback anywhere in sight. Philadelphia Eagles: Letting their Top Coordinators WalkFeb 9, 2025; New Orleans, LA, USA; Detailed view of a Philadelphia Eagles helmet during Super Bowl LIX at Ceasars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images The Eagles have a coordinator problem disguised as a Super Bowl hangover problem. After winning Super Bowl 52, they lost their offensive coordinator, Frank Reich, and their defensive coordinator, Jim Schwartz. By 2020, they went 4-11-1. After losing Super Bowl 57, they lost Shane Steichen to the Colts and Jonathan Gannon to the Cardinals. Got bounced in the Wild Card. After losing Super Bowl 59, they lost Kellen Moore to the Saints—and now their offense is in shambles. This NFL team can get to the mountaintop, but they can’t figure out how to retain the guys that got them there! Pittsburgh Steelers: Can’t Quit on their CoachesDec 15, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers helmet on the sidelines against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images The Steelers have had three head coaches since 1969. Chuck Noll. Bill Cowher. Mike Tomlin. That’s it. Tomlin has never had a losing season in 18 years, which, yes, is great… But here’s the flip side… he hasn’t won a playoff game in eight years. The stability is admirable, but at some point, you have to wonder if being “too loyal to fire” is actually holding the franchise back. San Francisco 49ers: Relying on Injury Prone StarsJan 5, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a San Francisco 49ers helmet at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Kyle Shanahan is one of the best coaches in the league—and always seems to make do with what he’s got- but the 49ers could make his job a whole lot easier if they stopped relying on stars that can’t stay on the field. Last year it was McCaffrey… this year Fred Warner, Nick Bosa, and even Brock Purdy! It is endless! No wonder they always seem to come up short come playoff time. Seattle Seahawks: Ignoring the O-LineDec 8, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Seattle Seahawks helmet at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Back when Seattle had Russell Wilson, they never once prioritized protecting him… And people thought that it was part of their strategy to lean on his mobility… but in the time since, this NFL team remained in the bottom quarter of the league consistently, regardless of who their quarterback was, and continued to let their quarterbacks get beaten up. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Can Only Win in the NFC SouthNov 4, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; A general view of Tampa Bay Buccaneers helmets against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images The Bucs keep winning the NFC South. The problem is… they keep winning it ugly—then get chased out by real competition in the playoffs. In 2022, they won the division at 8 and 9, with a losing record. In 2023, they won at 9 and 8. And in 2024, they won 10 and 7. Four consecutive NFC South titles, a franchise record, is great… but this just points to a decent team winning a bad division. Tennessee Titans: Chasing Out StarsAug 25, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Detailed view of the Tennessee Titans helmet against the New Orleans Saints during the first half at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports The Titans have a propensity for chasing out their best players… the trend started with guys like Steve McNair and Vince Young, who went from Rookie of the Year, to the scrap heap in the blink of an eye. Then it was Derrick Henry and Head Coach Mike Vrabel. It is no wonder that the heartbreak continues year after year in the Music City. Washington Commanders: Addicted to VeteransSep 29, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Washington Commanders helmet at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Under new ownership, the Commanders have developed a clear strategy: sign as many old veterans as possible and hope they have one more good year left. Their defense is headlined by Bobby Wagner, who at 35 doesn’t run like he used to but… You guessed it! uses smarts to compensate. Zach Ertz, another 35-year-old, is one of their go-to guys over the middle. Eerily reminiscent of the days when they would swing big with guys like Albert Haynesworth and Deion Sanders… I guess the more things change, the more they stay the same.
