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Chicago Bears

Bears Could Find Great Value in Athletic 6’7″ LT Prospect

Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson isn’t ruling out drafting a left tackle despite retaining Braxton Jones, Theo Benedet, and signing Jedrick Wills Jr. this offseason. The LT prospect could be someone most fans don’t even know of, which could be Florida’s Austin Barber.“There’s a lot of uncertainty right now, though. We don’t know. Ozzy’s […] The post Bears Could Find Great Value in Athletic 6’7″ LT Prospect appeared first on Heavy Sports.

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Jets Trade Idea Ships Out Breece Hall for New Starter & Day 2 Pick

The New York Jets have their starting running back, Breece Hall, set to play on the franchise tag for the 2026 season.Despite having the chance to negotiate a deal before the start of free agency, Hall and his representatives were unable to come to terms on an agreement with Jets brass, forcing the team to […] The post Jets Trade Idea Ships Out Breece Hall for New Starter & Day 2 Pick appeared first on Heavy Sports.

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Former Packers Coach Just Said What Everyone Was Thinking About Caleb Williams

Praise for the Chicago Bears rarely comes from Green Bay, but former Packers DC Jeff Hafley (now head coach of the Miami Dolphins) just gave a telling answer when asked about Caleb Williams at the NFL’s annual meeting in Arizona.  The post Former Packers Coach Just Said What Everyone Was Thinking About Caleb Williams appeared first on Heavy Sports.

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Bears’ Trade Pitch Has Chicago Selling The Farm for Myles Garrett

The Chicago Bears have been in the market for a disruptive edge rusher; that is no secret. After being heavily involved in the Crosby sweepstakes, Chicago made it clear that they are attempting to go all in on the 2026 season. Well, if they truly want to make a big swing, they might as well go for a grand slam. The post Bears’ Trade Pitch Has Chicago Selling The Farm for Myles Garrett appeared first on Heavy Sports.

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Trevon Diggs Sends Message After Retirement Decision

Trevon Diggs and the Green Bay Packers did not have the season they had hoped for. After acquiring Micah Parsons from the Dallas Cowboys for a package including two first-round picks and defensive tackle Kenny Clark, many expected the Packers to be a championship contender. Green Bay did not live ...

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Bears officially won’t receive Ian Cunningham compensatory picks

The Chicago Bears have been asking the NFL for its compensatory draft picks after former assistant general manager Ian Cunningham left the organization for the general manager job with the Atlanta Falcons. But it appears the league is not going to grant Chicago the two third-round comp picks the franchise feels it deserves. Reports indicate […] The post Bears officially won’t receive Ian Cunningham compensatory picks appeared first on ClutchPoints.

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10 Crazy NFL Trades That Almost Happened and Would’ve Changed Everything

Every NFL trade that happens changes the league to some degree… But what about the trades that didn’t happen? The ones that were agreed upon—then blocked—or backed out of. The times that General Managers of teams went to bed thinking they had a deal that was going to change the trajectory of their franchise, only to wake up empty-handed. The ones where one phone call, one owner’s grudge, or one failed physical changed the course of NFL history. These ten trades would have reshaped franchises, altered dynasties, and completely changed the careers of some of the biggest names in football. Let’s break down the craziest NFL trades that never happened—and why they fell apart. Why did these trades fail to push through in the NFL? Brian Burns to the Rams (2022)Dec 24, 2022; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers defensive end Brian Burns (53) walks off the field after the win over the Detroit Lions at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports At the 2022 trade deadline, the Rams offered the Panthers a monster package for edge rusher Brian Burns: two first-round picks and a second-round pick in the NFL Draft, but the Panthers said no to that trade. Scott Fitterer, Carolina’s general manager, saw Burns as a foundational piece. The Panthers had just fired Matt Rhule. They didn’t want to look like they were tanking. They wanted to show the locker room that they were still trying to compete. So they kept Burns. They tried to sign him to a long-term extension. Burns wanted $30 million per year. The two sides couldn’t agree. The Panthers went 2-15 the next season—the worst record in the NFL. Not long after, Burns was demanding a trade, and Carolina’s leverage was gone. The bidding war that never happened. The Panthers finally shipped him to the New York Giants for a second-round pick and a swap of fifth-rounders. Talk about fumbling the bag! Russell Wilson to the Bears (2021)Dec 21, 2021; Inglewood, California, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) throws the ball during warmups before the game against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports Three first-round picks. A third-round pick. Two starters. That’s what the Bears offered the Seahawks for Russell Wilson in March 2021. Ryan Pace, Chicago’s general manager, was all in, putting together one of the most aggressive trade packages in the NFL in recent memory after Wilson had named the Bears as one of four teams he’d waive his no-trade clause for.  Needless to say, Chicago was prepared to mortgage its future. And, man, after seeing how another crazy aggressive trade package for Wilson—the cursed one that Denver put together—played out…  Pace has to be thanking his lucky stars that this deal fell through because the Seahawks were hell-bent on getting one of the stars off of Chicago’s defense as part of the package. Fast forward today, and it looks like it’s all over for Wilson. Raiders Refused to Trade Khalil Mack Across the Bay (2018)Dec 30, 2018; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Chicago Bears linebacker Khalil Mack (52) looks on following the game against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports The 49ers made the best offer, but unfortunately for San Francisco, the Raiders didn’t care. In September 2018, the Oakland Raiders were shopping Khalil Mack, the 2016 Defensive Player of the Year, who had held out all of training camp. More than half the league called. The Bears, Jets, and 49ers all made serious offers. The 49ers went hard. General manager John Lynch believed San Francisco offered more than anyone else. “I don’t want to beat a dead horse, but we tried like heck to acquire Khalil Mack,” Lynch told 95.7 The Game. “I continue to think we offered a better deal than Chicago.” But instead, the Raiders took Chicago’s offer of two first-round picks, a third-round pick, and a sixth-round pick—a move many suspect they made because of the rivalry between the two franchises… they couldn’t stomach the idea of sending a player of his caliber to a rival… so they didn’t! It is a shame too… Chicago had a nice run with Mack, but they never had enough offense to be serious contenders. That 49ers team really could’ve been special with a generational talent added to their D-line! Ben Roethlisberger to the Rams (2010)December 19, 2010; Pittsburgh, PA, USA: Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) looks on from the sidelines against the New York Jets during the third quarter at Heinz Field. The Jets won 22-17. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USPRESSWIRE Believe it or not, the Steelers actually tried to trade Ben Roethlisberger. In 2010, Roethlisberger was suspended for six games following allegations of sexual assault.  It was later reduced to four… but his reputation was in shambles, and Pittsburgh’s front office was growing tired of his off-the-field antics. According to multiple reports, the Steelers approached the St. Louis Rams about a trade for the embattled NFL star. Pittsburgh wanted a high draft pick in exchange for its franchise quarterback. The Rams said no. At the time, it seemed like a reasonable decision. The Rams had the first overall pick in the 2010 draft. They were rebuilding. Sam Bradford was the consensus top quarterback prospect. Why give up a premium pick for a quarterback with serious off-field baggage? Here’s what happened next: Roethlisberger came back from his suspension and led the Steelers to a 12-4 record. They won the AFC Championship and reached Super Bowl XLV. Roethlisberger would go on to play another 11 seasons in Pittsburgh, making more Pro Bowls, winning a lot more games, and cementing his Hall of Fame credentials. As for the Rams, well, Bradford showed flashes but never developed into a franchise quarterback. They cycled through coaches and quarterbacks, going nowhere until Sean McVay arrived in 2017, when the Rams turned things around. Sometimes, the trade you don’t make costs you a decade. Stefon Diggs Chose Buffalo Over the Jets (2020)Dec 28, 2020; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; Buffalo Bills wide receiver Stefon Diggs (14) runs the ball against the New England Patriots in the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports Stefon Diggs almost became a Jet. By the spring of 2020, Diggs was done in Minnesota. He’d skipped practices. He’d been fined $200,000. And he’d told reporters, “There’s truth to all rumors,” when asked about demanding a trade to a different NFL team. The Vikings were ready to move on. After the season ended, Diggs’s options crystallized. It was Buffalo or the Jets. “After the season, I was like, man, it’s either I go there, or it was like the Jets or somewhere like that,” Diggs said. “I was like, I’m gonna go to Buffalo and see what’s going on.” He picked the Bills, and the trade sent shockwaves through both franchises.  Minnesota used that first-round pick on a receiver out of LSU named Justin Jefferson. In Buffalo, Diggs unlocked Josh Allen. In his first season with the Bills, Diggs led the NFL with 127 catches and 1,535 receiving yards, and Allen’s completion percentage jumped from 58.8% to 69.2%.  And… of course… the Jets, well, they remained the Jets. Bills Wanted Christian McCaffrey (2022)Dec 24, 2022; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) walks off the field after defeating the Washington Commanders at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports Before Christian McCaffrey became the centerpiece of San Francisco’s offense, the Buffalo Bills were circling—and, man, we could be looking at a completely different NFL landscape had they been able to pair him with Josh Allen. Back in October of 2022, the Panthers had just fired Matt Rhule. McCaffrey was the most valuable asset on the roster. The Bills desperately needed a dynamic running back. Josh Allen was doing everything himself. Adding McCaffrey seemed like the missing piece. Bills GM Brandon Beane called the Panthers. Multiple times. He stayed in touch throughout the entire process. But he never made a firm offer. “Yes, that was the last draft I was there in Carolina. Know him well,” Beane told reporters. “When you hear he’s on the block, I wouldn’t be doing my due diligence to not look into that. I did speak to the Panthers GM. Never made him an offer, but did stay in touch through the process.” Why didn’t Buffalo pull the trigger? “Ultimately, it was going to be more than we were going to be able to do.” The 49ers didn’t hesitate. They offered second-, third-, and fourth-round picks in 2023, plus a fifth-rounder in 2024. McCaffrey went on to lead the NFL in rushing in 2023, won Offensive Player of the Year, and helped San Francisco reach the big game. The Bills brought in Nyheim Hines instead. And every time McCaffrey torches a defense, Buffalo fans wonder what could have been. Buffalo is fortunate that James Cook developed into a consistent producer; otherwise, they really would’ve been sick over this one… Larry Fitzgerald to the Eagles (2008)January 29, 2008; Tampa FL, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (11) at the Cardinals press conference at the Hyatt Plaza hotel. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports Larry Fitzgerald should have been an Eagle. In 2008, the Arizona Cardinals were strapped for cash. Fitzgerald was due to make $14.6 million that year and $17.3 million the next. The back end of his rookie contract had the team over a barrel with a gigantic cap number. The Eagles came calling. According to Fitzgerald himself, Philadelphia offered to trade a first-round pick and a third-round pick for the perennial NFL All-Pro receiver. Arizona seriously considered it, but ultimately, the Cardinals signed Fitzgerald to a four-year, $40 million extension with a no-trade clause, keeping their franchise cornerstone in place. Here’s the twist: Later that same season, the Eagles and Cardinals met in the NFC Championship Game. Fitzgerald destroyed Philadelphia. Nine catches, 152 yards, and three touchdowns—en route to the Cardinals winning the contest 32-25 to advance to Super Bowl XLIII. The Eagles suffered their fourth NFC Championship loss of the decade—and got torched by the receiver they almost traded for. Fitzgerald went on to become the second-leading receiver in NFL history. He played his entire 17-year career in Arizona. The Eagles? They spent years searching for a true number-one receiver. One trade rejection turned into one championship game destruction.  Deshaun Watson to the Saints (2022)Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson comes off the field after practice during the NFL football team’s football training camp in Berea on Aug. 4, 2022. Watson File Photo 5 The New Orleans Saints did everything right. It still wasn’t enough. In March 2022, Deshaun Watson was finally available. A grand jury had declined to indict him on criminal charges, and the Texans were ready to deal. Watson had a no-trade clause, so he controlled his destiny. Four teams made serious offers: the Panthers, Falcons, Browns, and Saints. New Orleans went all in. The Saints were the only team to get a second meeting with Watson. Owner Gayle Benson flew in personally. They restructured contracts across the roster to clear cap space. They put together a trade package that would have sent multiple first-round picks to Houston. By Thursday , Watson had eliminated the Panthers and Browns. It was down to two NFC South rivals: the Saints and the Falcons. New Orleans had every reason to feel confident. They had the better roster. They had the more urgent need—Drew Brees had retired, and they’d just gone 9-8 with four different starting quarterbacks. Watson meeting with Benson twice signaled a serious interest. Then Friday morning happened. Watson’s agent called the Browns—the team Watson had eliminated 24 hours earlier—and said Cleveland was back in play. The Browns offered something no other team would match: a five-year, $230 million contract that was fully guaranteed. The Saints couldn’t compete with that. Neither could Atlanta. The Panthers had already been eliminated because they wouldn’t guarantee years three and four. Watson chose the money. He went to Cleveland, where his future remains uncertain. As a result, Baker Mayfield got sent on the odyssey that has since landed him in Tampa Bay, and while the Saints haven’t made the most of this epic bullet dodged, there is no denying that they ended up in a way better spot than the Browns. Pete Rozelle Blocked John Elway's move to the Raiders (1983)Denver Broncos — John Elway, 1983-1998, 51,475 yards Xxx C10 90 Elway 26 S Fbn Co The Raiders thought they had John Elway. The deal was done. Al Davis had put together a package the Colts couldn’t refuse: three first-round picks and two second-round picks for the number-one overall selection. Ernie Accorsi, Baltimore’s general manager, later confirmed it would have been “the best package ever” for Elway. There was just one problem: Davis needed another first-round pick in the NFL Draft to make the trade work. He went to the Chicago Bears, who had the sixth overall selection. The Raiders offered Howie Long, draft picks, and other assets. The Bears were receptive. The deal was closed. Then the night before the draft, everything fell apart. Bears GM Jim Finks called Raiders director of football operations Steve Ortmayer. “It’s not going to happen,” Finks said. “They’re not going to let it happen.” By “they,” everyone understood he meant the NFL league office—and specifically, Commissioner Pete Rozelle. “We almost had Elway, but Pete Rozelle voided the trade,” Ron Wolf, a former Raiders personnel executive now in the Hall of Fame, said years later. “We had the trade set up with Baltimore, but Pete wouldn’t let it happen.” Rozelle and Davis hated each other. Davis had been AFL commissioner during the merger negotiations in 1966, and Rozelle edged him out for the unified NFL commissioner job. Davis later sued the NFL over his franchise’s move to Los Angeles—and won, collecting $35 million in damages. And as a result… The Broncos acquired Elway for a far inferior package: backup quarterback Mark Herrmann, tackle Chris Hinton, and a first-round pick. Elway went on to win two Super Bowls and become one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. Have to think that Davis was wishing that he didn’t play hardball with Rozelle after that one! Randy Moss and Aaron Rodgers Almost Became Raiders/Packers (2007)Nov. 29, 2007; Irving, TX, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) reacts as the game ends against the Dallas Cowboys at Texas Stadium. Dallas defeated Green Bay 37-27. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports During the 2007 NFL Draft, the Raiders were shopping Randy Moss. He’d been a disaster in Oakland—just 43 catches the year before—and they wanted out. Two teams were seriously interested: Green Bay and New England. Allegedly, the Raiders floated a trade that would have sent Moss to Green Bay in exchange for Aaron Rodgers. Think about that. Rodgers was a backup entering his third year, an unproven commodity sitting behind Brett Favre. The Packers had Favre committed to playing a few more years. Moss would give him a weapon to chase another Super Bowl. Rodgers might never get a chance in Green Bay anyway. The Raiders held the first overall pick in the 2007 draft. If they’d gotten Rodgers, they could have traded that pick or selected Calvin Johnson at number two. But the two sides couldn’t agree on the additional draft compensation. The Raiders wanted more. The Packers wouldn’t budge. So the trade shifted to a simpler version: Moss for a draft pick… and Green Bay was outbid by New England because they wouldn’t budge from a 5th round pick—which in retrospect is a hilarious and terrible move… though I’m sure once Rodgers led them to a Super Bowl in 2010 they felt a sense of relief too… As per usual, the Raiders ended up down a bad path… instead of Rodgers, the Raiders drafted JaMarcus Russell—arguably the biggest bust in NFL history.

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Every NFL Teams’ Biggest Free Agency Regret: The Best Player They Let Walk All Time

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.

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Ex-Colts QB Philip Rivers Doesn’t Hold Back Seahawks’ Defense

The Seattle Seahawks‘ defense was probably the engine that powered the team’s run to Super Bowl LX. In the Seahawks‘ nine games between the regular season and playoffs, only the Los Angeles Rams were able to score over 20 points against this group.One of the QBs that faced the Seahawks during this run was Philip […] The post Ex-Colts QB Philip Rivers Doesn’t Hold Back Seahawks’ Defense appeared first on Heavy Sports.

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2 players Bears must avoid picking in 2026 NFL Draft

The Chicago Bears have finally reached clarity. They have their quarterback, a core, and a vision. Of course, with clarity comes pressure. As such, the 2026 NFL Draft isn’t about searching anymore but about building correctly around what already works. That means understanding that not every talented player is the right player. Most importantly, it […] The post 2 players Bears must avoid picking in 2026 NFL Draft appeared first on ClutchPoints.

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Ben Johnson Just Said What Bears Fans Needed to Hear About Coby Bryant

After losing both starting safeties Kevin Byard III and Jaquan Brisker, the Chicago Bears faced a major challenge. Byard, the NFL’s 2025 interception leader, stung especially hard. The financial and schematic reasoning made sense to fans, but the leadership question lingered. The post Ben Johnson Just Said What Bears Fans Needed to Hear About Coby Bryant appeared first on Heavy Sports.

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