<rss xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0">
    	<channel>
		<title>Latest NFL News &amp; Videos from FOX Sports</title>
		<link>https://www.foxsports.com/nfl</link>
		<description>Breaking NFL news, videos, articles, and stories from FOX Sports.</description>
		<image>
			<title>Latest NFL News &amp; Videos from FOX Sports</title>
			<url>https://b.fssta.com/uploads/application/fscom/fox-sports-logo-black.png</url>
			<link>https://www.foxsports.com/nfl</link>
		</image>
		<pubDate>Mon, 25 May 2026 06:46:15 -0400</pubDate>
		<copyright>Copyright 2026 FOX Sports</copyright>
		<language>en-us</language>
		<atom:link href="https://api.foxsports.com/v2/content/optimized-rss?partnerKey=MB0Wehpmuj2lUhuRhQaafhBjAJqaPU244mlTDK1i&amp;tags=fs/nfl&amp;size=30" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/>
		<atom:link rel="hub" href="https://foxsports.superfeedr.com"/>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[Cowherd Reacts to Stafford's Extension: ‘Win A Super Bowl Now And Next Year']]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/cowherd-reacts-staffords-extension-win-super-bowl-now-next-year</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/cowherd-reacts-staffords-extension-win-super-bowl-now-next-year</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Colin Cowherd reacted to quarterback Rams' Matthew Stafford's one-year extension and what it means for the 2026 season.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Fri, 22 May 2026 21:37:49 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/herd-5-22-stafford2.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/herd-5-22-stafford2.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[The 2026 NFL MVP hinted at a return in February and put it in writing this week – Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford is officially suiting up for the 2026 season. Stafford, who led the NFL in passing yards and touchdown passes last season, inked a one-year extension with the Rams worth up to $55 million. FOX Sports’ Colin Cowherd believes the Rams’ recent draft class made it possible to extend Stafford while keeping a talented defense intact. "The Rams can do that and pay that because they’ve drafted so well, but in about two years, they’ve got some really good players and money’s going to be due with a lot of them on defense," Cowherd said on Friday's edition of The Herd. Los Angeles' returning lineup plus Stafford instantly makes them an early favorite to win the Super Bowl next year. Their defense also received an upgrade with their blockbuster trade of veteran cornerback Trent McDuffie. Come the NFL Draft, the Rams used their first-round selection on quarterback Ty Simpson, which became one of the most shocking picks of the draft. Los Angeles had been projected to select a weapon player, like a wide receiver or a tight end with their first round pick. Although Simpson's selection could’ve been questionable for the Rams, FOX Sports' Rob Rang still saw Simpson as a perfect fit. "Prior to the draft, I listed the Rams as one of the cleanest fits for Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson. His pre-snap recognition and accuracy project quite well to Sean McVay’s offense, and with Matthew Stafford already in place, Simpson will have the opportunity to learn from the sideline, rather than get pushed onto the field prematurely," Rang wrote. Simpson led the Alabama Crimson Tide to their first College Football Playoff appearance with coach Kalen DeBoer at the helm. After a first round win over Oklahoma, the Tide fell in a brutal 38-3 loss at the Rose Bowl to eventual champions Indiana in the quarterfinals. Now, Simpson will prepare to take over the Rams offense when it comes time for Stafford to hang up the cleats. The Rams' returning offense still has wide receivers Puka Nacua and Devonte Adams, tight end Colby Parkinson and running back pair Blake Corum and Kyren Williams. Cowherd also saw the Simpson pick as the right call, especially if Stafford potentially retires following his extension. "This is why I defended the Ty Simpson pick…They're trying to master two timelines. The number one timeline is: Win a Super Bowl now and next year. The 2nd timeline is: To have their QB in place without getting into a bidding war in two years." Last year, the Rams fell short of a title, when they lost to eventual Super Bowl LX champions the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Championship. It was their first time back in the conference title game since their Super Bowl LVI win in 2022. Now, with Stafford’s official return, the Rams are already positioned to make another deep run this season. The Rams officially open up the 2026 season in Melbourne (the first ever NFL regular season game in Australia) with an NFC West game against the San Francisco 49ers on Sept. 10.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[Cowherd Backs Raiders' Reload: 'I’m A Fan Of Fernando Mendoza And The Raiders']]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/colin-cowherd-raiders-reload-fernando-mendoza-raiders</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/colin-cowherd-raiders-reload-fernando-mendoza-raiders</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Colin Cowherd highlighted the progress that the Las Vegas Raiders made in the offseason, pointing to their quarterback and new coach.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Fri, 22 May 2026 16:32:03 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/herd-5-21-mendoza.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/herd-5-21-mendoza.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[A veteran-rookie quarterback duo, a retooled defense and a brand-new head coach are some of the offseason additions that the Las Vegas Raiders hope fuel a comeback year. For FOX Sports’ Colin Cowherd, he sees the Raiders' new additions as the right moves heading into the 2026 season, especially after their recent 3-14 finish under former head coach Pete Carroll. "One of the reasons I’m a fan of Fernando Mendoza and the Raiders is, the Raiders are the rare bad organization for a decade that finally got their coach and their GM, simultaneously, right, they got both right. I actually think they had a great draft and a great offseason," Cowherd said on Thursday’s edition of "The Herd". Following the trade of former Raiders quarterback Geno Smith to the Jets, the Raiders filled his spot with another veteran – quarterback Kirk Cousins – to compliment their No. 1 overall pick in quarterback Fernando Mendoza. Cousins was signed by the Raiders following his two-year stint with the Atlanta Falcons. Additionally, the Raiders drafted running back Mike Washington Jr. and wide receiver Malik Benson, and added wide receiver Jalen Nailors and Cousins from free agency. While the Raiders added stars on offense, their defensive overhaul to help compliment star defensive end Maxx Crosby was equally impressive. Las Vegas drafted safety Treydan Stukes, edge Keyron Crawford, cornerback Jermod McCoy, safety Dalton Johnston, cornerback Hezekiah Masses and defensive tackle Brandon Cleveland. From free agency, the Raiders added defensive end Kwity Paye and linebacker Nakobe Dean. Cowherd didn’t hesitate to commend the Raiders for their talent at head coach and at quarterback, but cautions as to what signing rookie quarterbacks could bring to the table. "I don’t think (the Raiders) feel like Baker Mayfield going to Cleveland. Where I liked the coach and the quarterback, but I didn’t like the opening roster. Where you get into trouble with rookie quarterbacks taken high is when you view them as saviors... Usually, teams that have been in last place for years feel desperate." Especially when adding a new rookie-veteran pairing to the quarterback room, the question lies in who will take the reins as the Raiders starting quarterback in a bounce-back season. The Raiders open up the 2026 season hosting the Miami Dolphins on Sept. 13.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[With Chicago Options ‘Exhausted,’ Bears Focus on Arlington Heights and Hammond]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/chicago-stadium-options-exhausted-bears-focus-arlington-hammond</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/chicago-stadium-options-exhausted-bears-focus-arlington-hammond</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[The Chicago Bears have reiterated their plans to leave Chicago and are considering stadium sites in suburban Illinois or Hammond, Indiana.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2026 20:57:52 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/bearsfront.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/bearsfront.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[The Bears reiterated Thursday they plan to leave Chicago as they continue to look at building a stadium in suburban Illinois or Hammond, Indiana. "The Chicago Bears have exhausted every opportunity to stay in Chicago, which was our initial goal," the team said in a statement. "There is not a viable site in the city. As a result, the only sites under consideration are in Arlington Heights and Hammond." The statement, which appears to again close the door on staying in Chicago, comes after team president Kevin Warren said last month at the NFL meetings in Arizona that the Bears were hoping to choose a new site for an enclosed stadium in Illinois or Indiana late this spring or early in the summer. The Bears have played at Soldier Field for more than half a century. Indiana lawmakers are attempting to lure them from the Windy City with a plan to finance and build a domed stadium in Hammond, about 25 miles from their current home on Lake Michigan’s shore. The Illinois General Assembly responded with legislation that would give tax breaks to so-called megaprojects of at least $100 million, a plan that would encompass the Bears’ proposal to build a complex on a 326-acre tract of land they own in Arlington Heights. "Both of the sites are excellent sites," Warren said last month. The Bears are a charter NFL franchise that has played in Illinois since the team's founding in 1920 as the Decatur Staleys. Since moving to Chicago in 1921, the Bears have never owned their stadium, whether playing at Wrigley Field from 1921 to 1970 or Soldier Field since. Reporting by the Associated Press.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[Top 10 QBs Of All Time: Where Does Aaron Rodgers Rank Ahead Of Final Season?]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/top-10-qbs-all-time-where-does-aaron-rodgers-rank-ahead-final-season</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/top-10-qbs-all-time-where-does-aaron-rodgers-rank-ahead-final-season</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Aaron Rodgers will wrap up his Hall of Fame career this season. That got us thinking where he ranks on the all-time quarterbacks list.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2026 20:35:05 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/artboard-1-19.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/artboard-1-19.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[After years of retirement rumors, Aaron Rodgers made it official on Wednesday. The Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback announced that the 2026 season will be his last. While the last few seasons haven't been kind to Rodgers, he sealed his place as one of the greatest players in pro football history well before his time with the Green Bay Packers came to an end. He is a lock to be a first-ballot Hall of Famer, and he may eventually get a street named after him in Green Bay. And Rodgers' name will come up whenever a discussion is held on the greatest quarterbacks of all time. The only debate will be about how high on the list he should rank. So, with Rodgers entering his 22nd and final NFL season, where does he fit on the all-time quarterbacks list? Here are my top 10 quarterbacks to ever play the game. Easily the greatest quarterback to never win a Super Bowl. Dan Marino did lead the Miami Dolphins to one appearance, though, in his spectacular second season. That year, he became the first quarterback to ever top 5,000 passing yards and 40 passing touchdowns in a single season and was the NFL’s MVP. Known for his lightning-quick release, he was the most prolific passer of the 1980s and early ‘90s. He still ranks 10th all-time in passing yardage (61,361) and eighth all-time in passing touchdowns (420). Ernie Accorsi, the long-time NFL general manager who worked for the Baltimore Colts during the Unitas era, once told me, "The definition of leadership was watching Johnny Unitas get off the team bus." Unitas had an aura and confidence about him at a time when quarterbacks were just beginning to be superstars in the league. In fact, he helped set up the modern passing era with his golden right arm, leading the Colts to three championships and winning three MVPs. His numbers may pale in comparison to the modern stars, but in the late ‘50s and early ‘60s, he dominated the league. Drew Brees might be the most prolific, high-volume passer of all time. He was one of only two quarterbacks ever to top 80,000 career yards (80,358) and he led the NFL in passing seven times in his 20 seasons. He is also second all-time with 571 passing touchdowns. Despite being just 6-feet tall, he had remarkable accuracy, completing 67.7% of his career passes. He led the NFL in that category six times, topped 70% in seven of his seasons and set the all-time record when he completed 74.4% of his passes in 2018. He went to 13 Pro Bowls and was the Super Bowl MVP when the New Orleans Saints won their only championship. John Elway wasn’t as prolific as some of his counterparts in the 1980s and ‘90s, but he did lead the Denver Broncos to five Super Bowls. And when he capped his career with back-to-back Super Bowl championships, his place in the top 10 was secured. Elway won an MVP, too, and he finished with impressive career numbers. His 51,475 passing yards ranked second all-time when he retired and currently sit in 12th, while his 300 passing touchdowns ranked third when he retired and still rank 14th. Those are impressive marks considering the rise of the passing game since Elway retired. More importantly, Elway retired as the winningest quarterback in NFL history with 148 victories — a number that still ranks seventh all-time. Brett Favre was the definition of a "gunslinger. The Green Bay Packers icon was one of the most prolific passers in NFL history … and is still the all-time leader in interceptions (366, including the playoffs). But Favre was a master of the broken play, with the ability to turn scrambles into dazzling, highlight-reel throws. He was an 11-time Pro Bowler and a Super Bowl champion. He is also the only player in NFL history to win three straight MVP awards (1995-97), a remarkable feat. Favre's 71,838 passing yards still rank fourth all-time, and his 508 touchdown passes are still the fifth-most. What might have made Favre different, though, was his Iron Man status. He set a position player record with 297 consecutive starts in his career — 321 straight when the playoffs are included. Now entering his final season, Aaron Rodgers is 42 and still putting up respectable numbers at quarterback. But while there’s always a chance for a late-career miracle, his best days are behind him and his legacy is very secure. Rodgers is a four-time NFL MVP — one of only two players to ever win that many, and one of just five players to ever win the award in back-to-back seasons. He also took the Packers to a Super Bowl in 2010 in only his third season as a starting quarterback, while making Green Bay a playoff mainstay as he led it to four NFC Championship Games in 11 seasons. Ahead of the 2026 season, Rodgers is fifth all-time in passing yards (66,274), fourth all-time in passing touchdowns (527), with a chance to finish third. But what's made Rodgers elite is his efficiency. He currently has the best touchdown-to-interception ratio in NFL history and is also the all-time leader in passer rating (102.2). Sure, Rodgers is also the most-sacked quarterback of all time (600), but you can look past that when he's put up the numbers he's had and the amount he's won. Rodgers is sixth all-time in wins with 163, and is just one last 10-win season away from finishing fourth. The scary part about Patrick Mahomes is that he’s still only 30 years old and has played just nine NFL seasons, including the year he was Alex Smith's backup. But that means his career might only be half over, and look what he’s done already: 35,939 passing yards and 267 passing touchdowns — including two seasons over 5,000 yards and one season with 50 touchdowns. He’s a three-time Super Bowl champion (and Super Bowl MVP), has been to two other Super Bowls, and before he got hurt last season, he had led the Chiefs to the AFC Championship Game in each of his first seven years as their starter. He’s got a 17-4 record in the playoffs and has thrown 46 postseason touchdown passes. Only Tom Brady has thrown more and won more in the playoffs, and he might have another decade to add to a résumé that almost no one else can match. In many ways, Peyton Manning was the prototype of the modern quarterback, making him easily the most anticipated quarterback prospect ever. And Manning more than lived up to his considerable hype. He's the only five-time MVP in NFL history and led two teams to Super Bowl championships (Indianapolis Colts, Denver Broncos) and played in four. He might have made a couple more, too, if he hadn’t kept running into Tom Brady and the New England Patriots in the playoffs. He’s third all-time in passing yards (71,940) and passing touchdowns (539) and tied for second in wins (186). He also arguably had the best season for a quarterback in NFL history, throwing for a record 5,477 yards and 55 touchdowns with Denver in 2013. Before Tom Brady came around, "Joe Cool" was the undisputed king of NFL quarterbacks. Joe Montana set the standard in the 1980s and early ‘90s, running the Bill Walsh West Coast offense to perfection. He was a four-time Super Bowl champion, a three-time Super Bowl MVP, and didn’t throw a single interception in his 122 Super Bowl passes. Montana's Super Bowl passer rating of 127.8 is a record that still stands, and his 45 playoff touchdown passes and 16 playoff wins rank him third all-time. His career numbers aren’t dazzling (40,551 yards and 273 touchdowns), but they were a product of a different era and the fact that he was only a starter for 12 seasons. But he made the most of those dozen years, taking his teams to the playoffs 11 times. There is no debate about who is No. 1, and no one is even close. The 199th pick in the 2000 draft, Tom Brady won seven Super Bowls (more than any single franchise has ever won), five Super Bowl MVPs and three NFL MVPs. A 15-time Pro Bowler, he is the NFL’s all-time leader in passing yards (89,214), passing touchdowns (649) and wins (251). He’s also the all-time playoff leader in those categories (13,400 yards, 88 touchdowns, 35 wins). But Brady was unparalleled as a winner. With him leading the way, the Patriots won 17 division titles, including 11 in a row, and went to 13 AFC Championship Games, including eight in a row. He took the Patriots to nine Super Bowls, winning six, and then won one in his first year with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, too. In case you need more, Brady was the oldest NFL MVP (40), the oldest Super Bowl MVP (43) and the oldest quarterback to receive a Pro Bowl nod (44). Brady played an astonishing 23 seasons in the NFL, which was long enough to land him on the all-decade teams for both the 2000s and the 2010s.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[Giants QB Jaxson Dart Shuts Down Tim Tebow Comparisons: 'I'm Not Like That']]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/giants-qb-jaxson-dart-shuts-down-tim-tebow-comparisons-im-not-like-that</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/giants-qb-jaxson-dart-shuts-down-tim-tebow-comparisons-im-not-like-that</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart says he's leaner but about the same weight as his rookie year after going through his first offseason workout regimen as an NFL player]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2026 20:27:25 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/dartfront.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/dartfront.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[Jaxson Dart looks bigger and stronger than his rookie year in the NFL with the New York Giants. He insists he weighs the same. "I’m not like Tim Tebow," Dart said with a smile. "I’m not like that." Still built like a quarterback and not like Tebow, who became a tight end as a pro, Dart made a concerted effort in recent months to build muscle. That was evident as he took the field for the first week of organized team activities. "I just think I’m just leaner, and our strength staff has done an amazing job," Dart said Thursday. "When you just get into the league, there’s a little bit more resources that you have when it comes to a nutrition standpoint, building out a plan. Had a really good offseason, and I was happy to make it through this past season healthy." Dart missed two games last season after getting concussed, and, yes, the topic of him getting down and sliding came up after new coach John Harbaugh, offensive coordinator Matt Nagy and quarterbacks coach Brian Callahan took over. The 23-year-old conceded earlier in the week at a Giants town hall fan event that he has to avoid some unnecessary hits so he can stay on the field. Evidence of that adjustment won't be clear until September when games start counting. During offseason workouts, the aim is to build a rapport with a handful of new pass-catchers, including receiver Darnell Mooney and tight end Isaiah Likely. Dart gathered players for informal workouts in California earlier this spring to start that process. "That’s some things that you should do," Mooney said. "The more reps you get with Dart, the more familiar he gets with you and the more connection you have." Returning receivers Malik Nabers, who's recovering from a torn ACL in his right knee, and Darius Slayton were among the injured players not participating Thursday. Harbaugh said Slayton had surgery to repair a lingering sports hernia and expects the 29-year-old to be ready for training camp. Nabers' timeline is murkier, with no guarantee he's ready for the season opener. "It’s probably the first time he’s been hurt like this, and my experience with guys is the first time they have a serious injury, it’s tough," Harbaugh said. "It’s tough because it’s new for him. It’s a tough process. Our job is to stay close to him and stay with him, and his job is to trust and work hard. He’s doing his job, and the trainers and docs are doing their job and he will be back." Left tackle Andrew Thomas took part in drills Tuesday and Wednesday, Harbaugh said, while nursing shoulder and foot injuries. Thomas said he and trainers are managing the situation. Giants sign GM Joe Schoen to a multiyear contract extension The Giants on Thursday night announced they've signed general manager Joe Schoen to a multiyear contract extension, keeping him in position to work with Harbaugh for the foreseeable future. The two have been complementary of each other since Harbaugh was hired in January, reporting directly to ownership. Extending Schoen's deal is a sign that it was not just talk, and it comes after New York navigated defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence's trade request and selected linebacker Arvell Reese and offensive lineman Francis "Sisi" Mauigoa with the Nos. 5 and 10 picks in the draft. "Joe did a great job tonight, operating under pressure," Harbaugh said after the first round last month. "He was very well prepared, obviously, just knew what he wanted to do and was fielding the different calls and communicating with everybody. I thought we had a really good operation. Joe leads the way on that and did a great job with it." Reporting by the Associated Press]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[Rams, Matthew Stafford Agree To 1-Year Extension, Reportedly Make Him A Top-Paid QB]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/rams-matthew-stafford-agree-1-year-extension-reportedly-make-him-top-paid-qb</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/rams-matthew-stafford-agree-1-year-extension-reportedly-make-him-top-paid-qb</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[The Rams have officially re-signed NFL MVP and QB Matthew Stafford to a one-year, $55 million extension.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2026 20:21:09 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/staffordfront.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/staffordfront.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[The Los Angeles Rams may have drafted Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson as a long-term option, but he will remain on the sideline and sit behind Matthew Stafford for now. Stafford and the Rams have agreed to a one-year extension that will keep him under contract through the end of the 2027 season, the team announced on Thursday. The contract is worth $55 million, but Stafford can earn up to $5 million more in incentives, ESPN reported. Stafford, 38, can now earn up to $105 million over the next two seasons. The extension came after Stafford won his first NFL MVP award in 2025, completing 65% of his passes for 4,707 yards, a career-high 46 touchdowns and eight interceptions. Stafford led the Rams to a 12-5 record and an appearance in the NFC Championship Game, but fell to the eventual Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks. Stafford now has two years remaining on his deal with the Rams, worth up to $105 million after winning his first NFL MVP award. He led them to a 12-5 record and an appearance in the NFC Championship Game before falling to the eventual Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks. While the Rams used the 13th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to select Simpson, the Rams indicated before and after the pick was made that they were planning to extend Stafford. The agreement between the two sides was also smoother than the agreement the Rams and Stafford reached last offseason. Los Angeles allowed Stafford to speak with other teams in 2025 before agreeing to an extension. The Stafford extension caps off a busy offseason for the Rams. Prior to drafting Simpson, the Rams gave up a first-round pick and other selections in order to get All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie from the Rams. They also signed ex-Chiefs cornerback Jaylen Watson to shore up their secondary. As for what to expect for this season, our Eric D. Williams predicted that the Rams would go 9-8 in 2026 following the schedule release. Williams added that while the Rams improved their defense, questions remain about Stafford’s age and wide receiver Puka Nacua’s off-the-field issues. "Matthew Stafford is 38 years old and played all 17 games last season for the first time since 2021," Williams wrote. "And slated to back Stafford up is surprising first-round pick Ty Simpson, who has never taken an NFL snap and is a play away from leading a team that is the current betting favorite to win the Super Bowl. The Rams also must make sure Puka Nacua’s off-the-field issues are in the rearview mirror." The extension makes it clear the Rams still believe Stafford gives them their best chance to compete for a Super Bowl over the next two seasons. Even at his age, coach Sean McVay is continuing to build around Stafford rather than rushing Simpson’s development. Our own Ralph Vacchiano sees things differently, ranking the Rams No. 2 in his latest NFL power rankings following the schedule release. "My colleague, Eric Williams, doesn’t share my rosy view of the Rams," Vacchiano wrote. "I remain bullish, but I got squeamish when I looked at their schedule. They’ll travel 34,847 miles this season, which can’t be good for Matthew Stafford’s 38-year-old back. And facing the Seahawks twice in the final three games caps a brutal final two months." The Rams open as Super Bowl favorites with +800 odds and are favored in 16 of their 17 games next season. The franchise has now cemented those championship expectations by going all-in on Stafford for the next two seasons.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[Giants Keep General Manager Joe Schoen, Agreeing To Multi-Year Extension With Exec]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/giants-keep-general-manager-joe-schoen-agreeing-multi-year-extension-exec</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/giants-keep-general-manager-joe-schoen-agreeing-multi-year-extension-exec</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[The New York Giants and general manager Joe Schoen agreed on a multi-year contract extension.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2026 19:46:32 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/schoen_horizontal.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/schoen_horizontal.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[After multiple months of questions about his future in New York, Giants general manager Joe Schoen is set to remain in his current position for the foreseeable future. The Giants and Shoen have agreed to a multi-year contract extension, the team announced on Thursday. The details regarding the length of his contract have yet to be released. New York's endorsement of Schoen came four months after the Giants cleaned house and ultimately hired John Harbaugh as head coach. While Schoen was a part of the front office that landed Harbaugh, who spent 18 seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, including winning the Super Bowl in 2012, there was some speculation that New York could let him go. Now, Schoen is set to work alongside the Super Bowl-winning coach for the foreseeable future. Schoen's tenure in New York has been scrutinized for his decision to allow running back Saquon Barkley to leave in free agency during the 2024 offseason. Barkley proceeded to sign with the Giants' rival, the Philadelphia Eagles, where he had a career year, rushing for 2,005 yards and 13 touchdowns, while helping them win Super Bowl LIX.. In coordination with letting Barkley walk, the Giants inked quarterback Daniel Jones to a four-year, $160 million deal in 2023. New York, then, went 9-25 over the next two seasons before releasing Jones, who joined the Minnesota Vikings, and ultimately signed with the Indianapolis Colts last season, nearly helping them make the playoffs. Schoen has also helped author other impactful decisions. The Giants traded the No. 39 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft for star edge rusher Brian Burns, who had 16.5 sacks last season. During the 2025 NFL Draft, he and the Giants decided to trade up to the No. 25 pick to select quarterback Jaxson Dart. Then, four days before the 2026 NFL Draft, New York traded veteran defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence to the Cincinnati Bengals for the No. 10 overall pick, which was used to select offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa. After signing this extension, not only will Schoen have the opportunity to work with Harbaugh, the coach he helped hire, but he will oversee the young core he helped put together. The Giants' foundation includes promising players such as Dart, Mauigoa, wide receiver Malik Nabers, running back Cameron Skattebo, and linebackers Arvell Reese and Abdul Carter.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[2026 NFL Odds: Back Cowboys to Shine; Fade Cardinals' Win Total]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2026-nfl-odds-back-cowboys-fade-cardinals-win-totals</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2026-nfl-odds-back-cowboys-fade-cardinals-win-totals</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[FOX Sports betting analyst Geoff Schwartz has his sights set on two NFL win total bets he loves heading into the 2026 season.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2026 15:13:25 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/quinnen-521.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/quinnen-521.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[We can't tell the future, but we can darn sure predict it. Now that each NFL schedule has landed, here are the two Over/Under win totals that stand out the most to me right now. This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. Arizona Cardinals Over/Under 4.5 wins There’s a strong chance the Arizona Cardinals have the worst record in the NFL next season. Not only are they weak at the most important position in the sport, but they have also been dealt an extremely difficult schedule. They have to play six in-division games against the Seahawks, 49ers and Rams, all of which are playoff-caliber squads. Then, the NFC West is paired with the AFC West and NFC East, so that adds the Chiefs, Broncos, Chargers, Eagles and Cowboys to that brutal gauntlet. All five of those teams will push to win their respective divisions. The Commanders should also be better this season and the Giants will be much improved with a new head coach. The Cardinals do get the Raiders, but not until Week 17, when the Las Vegas' rookie quarterback should be playing better football. That Raiders game could be the only matchup all season in which the Cardinals are favored, but as of now, Arizona is still listed as a 1.5-point home underdog in that game. What makes this schedule even more daunting is the Cardinals' quarterback room. Right now, it’s Jacoby Brissett, Gardner Minshew and newly drafted Carson Beck. Not ideal. Brissett and Minshew are capable backup quarterbacks, but are losing their effectiveness as the years go by. Additionally, I don’t expect much from rookie Beck if he gets a chance to play this season. In short, Arizona's roster isn’t dynamic enough to overcome poor quarterback play and that schedule. PICK: Arizona Cardinals Under 4.5 wins Dallas Cowboys Over/Under 8.5 wins I think the Cowboys are legit contenders to win the NFC. Let’s go through the checklist of winning teams, starting with the QB. Check. Dak Prescott is an above-average quarterback and I don’t think people want to believe it. He was seventh last season in EPA and just needs to stay healthy. The Cowboys also have an excellent offensive line and skill position players, which makes Prescott even more potent from the pocket. On defense, Dallas has drastically improved its pass rush with the additions of Quinnen Williams and Kenny Clark last season, plus Rashan Gary this spring. It also drafted pass rushers Malachi Lawrence and LT Overton, and I love the addition of Caleb Downs at safety in the draft, as well as Cobie Durant during free agency. Additionally, Dallas' coaching staff showed last season it can win games and in Year 2, I’d expect improvement. The Cowboys' schedule is manageable for an Over win projection. Four games against the Giants and Commanders in which they will be the favorite, plus two against the Eagles, which they can split. They get the AFC South, so that includes games against the Colts, Titans, Jaguars and Texans. The Cowboys get the Cardinals, Bucs and Ravens as well. There’s not a game on the schedule Dallas cannot win. PICK: Dallas Cowboys Over 8.5 wins]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[Has New Browns Head Coach Todd Monken Met Myles Garrett? 'No']]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/browns-head-coach-todd-monken-myles-garrett</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/browns-head-coach-todd-monken-myles-garrett</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[New Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken revealed that he still hasn't met "face-to-face" with superstar DE Myles Garrett.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2026 14:44:21 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/myles.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/myles.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[A new head coach is going to meet a lot of people, except for the best defensive end of his generation, apparently. Speaking at his Thursday press availability, new Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken replied "no" when asked if he had yet met "face-to-face" with superstar defensive end Myles Garrett. The important thing is this isn't awkward at all. Garrett, a five-time All-Pro and seven-time Pro Bowler, is coming off a 2025 campaign that saw him break the single-season NFL sack record with 23.0 of them, while also totaling a 2025 NFL-high 33 tackles for loss, three forced fumbles and 60 combined tackles. The career-long Browns' defender has logged double-digit sacks in eight consecutive seasons and earned NFL Defensive Player of the Year honors in two of the last three years (2023 and 2025). Garrett ranks first in Browns history in registered sacks (125.5) and forced fumbles (23). The 60-year-old Monken — who was previously the offensive coordinator of the Baltimore Ravens from 2023-25 and the Browns' offensive coordinator in 2019, among other assistant coaching positions — is embarking on his first NFL head-coaching stint; he was the head coach of the Southern Miss Golden Eagles from 2013-15. On the player front, Monken has consistently expressed that second-year signal-caller Shedeur Sanders — who made seven starts in his 2025 rookie campaign — and veteran Deshaun Watson — who hasn't played since Oct. 2024 due to a torn Achilles tendon — will compete to be the team's starting quarterback throughout the offseason.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[2026 NFL Preview: The 10 New Coordinators Who Could Shape Upcoming Season]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2026-nfl-preview-10-new-coordinators-who-could-shape-upcoming-season</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2026-nfl-preview-10-new-coordinators-who-could-shape-upcoming-season</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[A total of 36 coaches were hired to offensive or defensive coordinator roles this offseason. Here are the 10 most likely to make an impact.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2026 13:23:18 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/artboard-1-17.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/artboard-1-17.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[We've all gotten caught up in the moves made during free agency and the NFL Draft this offseason, but it's so easy to forget that the biggest upheaval of the winter and spring was the massive change in the coaching ranks across the league. Ten teams got a new head coach this offseason, which marked the most head coaching hires in an offseason since 2022. But there were nearly four times as many offensive and defensive coordinator hires this offseason, too. A total of 36 coaches were hired for offensive or defensive coordinator roles, with a substantial 21 teams set to have a new offensive coordinator in 2026. As for the 15 new defensive coordinators hired, that number doesn't include New England Patriots defensive coordinator Zak Kuhr, who has a new title this season but filled in running the Patriots' defense for most of last season during Terrell Williams' medical leave. The new coordinators run the gamut from recently fired head coaches to first-time playcallers. In trying to trim the list to the 10 most likely to impact the 2026 NFL season, we put a premium on coordinators on the opposite side of the head coach, though there are teams significant enough that we included coordinators who are essentially running someone else's scheme. To appreciate the depth of this year's new coordinators, we'll offer five honorable-mention names that didn't make the list but would in many seasons: Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Sean Mannion, Tennessee Titans offensive coordinator Brian Daboll, New York Giants offensive coordinator Matt Nagy and Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy. Onto our 10 choices … The Buffalo Bills' offense should be largely the same with Joe Brady elevated from coordinator to head coach after Sean McDermott's firing. The task of improving the Bills' defense falls to Jim Leonhard, 43, who returns to where he started his NFL career as a safety. They signed edge rusher Bradley Chubb in free agency and used six of their 10 draft picks on defense, including Clemson defensive tackle T.J. Sanders and Ohio State corner Davison Igbinosun in the second round. Buffalo only had defensive lineman Ed Oliver for three games in 2025, so his healthy return will help them against the run, where it ranked 28th last year. Leonhard had eight years of college experience, but this is only his third season as an NFL coach, so it's a big leap for an important team as the Bills try to wrest the AFC East back from the Patriots. Declan Doyle is only 30, and was allowed to make a rare lateral move, going from offensive coordinator with the Chicago Bears (where he worked under offensive playcaller and head coach Ben Johnson) to now calling his own plays on Jesse Minter's new Ravens staff. So Doyle is 10 months older than his new quarterback, Lamar Jackson, and the challenge is to help get Baltimore deeper in the playoffs, with only one conference championship appearance in Jackson's time there. Can first-round guard Vega Ioane be a difference-maker? Can Derrick Henry stay healthy and ageless at 32? Baltimore set the bar high in moving on from a head coach and offensive coordinator who both immediately became head coaches for other teams, but success with the Ravens could make Doyle a coveted candidate to become a head coach in 2027. Chris O'Leary, 34, might be the coordinator fans know the least. If Minter is old enough to have coaching disciples, O'Leary would be one, playing for him at Indiana State and coaching under him at several stops. He was the Chargers' safeties coach in 2024, went to Western Michigan to run their defense and now returns to take Minter's place on Jim Harbaugh's staff. Can they improve on ranking 29th in red-zone defense last year? Can first-round edge rusher Akheem Mesidor learn from Khalil Mack and upgrade the pass rush? In a division where all the other offenses should be improving, it's a difficult task, helped by Los Angeles' offense getting better at the same time. Sean Payton liked Davis Webb, 31, enough to fire offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi and elevate him after just three seasons as an NFL assistant. The Denver Broncos had six straight losing seasons before Payton took over in 2023, and his three-year arc has gone from 8 to 10 to 14 wins, losing to the Patriots in last year's AFC title game. No quarterback threw more passes last year than Bo Nix, but only Cam Ward threw for fewer yards per attempt out of the league's top 12 passers. Adding wide receiver Jaylen Waddle will help the offense, but this is a status-quo team that might be the least-tweaked roster of any 2025 playoff team, trusting that coaches can get more out of the same, at least in the postseason. The Dallas Cowboys' defense was bad last year. They were the only team in the league to give up 30 points per game, while ranking 30th against the run and 32nd against the pass. Christian Parker, 34, was poached from the Philadelphia Eagles and has new talent to work with, as Dallas traded for edge rusher Rashan Gary and linebacker Dee Winters and signed safety Jalen Thompson. The rest of the NFC East has all new offensive coordinators, so if Dallas is to get back to being a playoff team, much of that is whether they can just get to an average defense amid improving offenses all over their divisional schedule. Jonathan Gannon, 43, struggled with the Arizona Cardinals, as his defense ranked 31st in scoring in 2023 and 29th last year, but he takes over a Green Bay Packers defense good enough to make Jeff Hafley the Miami Dolphins' head coach. When does Micah Parsons get back healthy? Can Green Bay improve at forcing takeaways after getting just 14 last season, with only three teams forcing fewer? The Packers' top draft pick was used to get Parsons and the first three they used went on defense, so there's an awareness that the division had two top-10 offenses and the Minnesota Vikings' offensive unit should be better. Nathan Scheelhaase, 35, was perhaps the biggest up-and-comer not hired in the last coaching cycle, landing a promotion to offensive coordinator when Mike LaFleur got the Arizona job. This is only his third year as an NFL assistant, and as high as the expectations are for the Rams, they have a limited window to win with Matthew Stafford, and they're playing in a division that has arguably three of the league's top eight teams. This season ends with a Super Bowl in Los Angeles, so the key for the Rams might be securing the division and home games to set up a postseason path that doesn't go far from home. This is still Sean McVay's offense, and they were the NFL's No. 1 offense in points and total yards, but with no significant additions on that side of the ball, Scheelhaase's challenge is keeping that unit as the league's best. At 49, Raheem Morris is the old man on this list, back at coordinator after three losing seasons as the Atlanta Falcons head coach. He was the Rams' defensive coordinator when they won the Super Bowl in 2021, and he'll inherit a talented San Francisco 49ers defense that was limited by injuries last season. San Francisco's only losses from November on last year were to the Rams and Seattle Seahawks, giving up 42 in a home loss to Los Angeles and 41 in a playoff loss to Seattle. Fred Warner is healthy, Dre Greenlaw is back and the front added Osa Odighizuwa, so getting back to a top-10 defense could be the difference between the top seed in the NFC and the fifth seed as a wild card. Brian Fleury, 47, had a longer path to coaching in the NFL, spending four years each at Sacred Heart and Towson before getting his first pro coaching job. He spent the last four years as the 49ers' tight ends coach, but now he's a first-time play-caller armed with one of the best offenses in the NFL. Can the run game stay solid with Kenneth Walker gone and first-rounder Jadarian Price stepping in? Can Sam Darnold continue to play at a Pro Bowl level when Seattle has a target on their backs every week as defending champs? This was an outside-the-box hire that's crucial to the Seahawks' hopes of getting back to another Super Bowl. Mike McDaniel, 43, went 35-33 in four years as the Dolphins' head coach, and now his task is getting Justin Herbert to his first playoff win in his seventh NFL season. The Chargers were limited by losing both tackles last year, but with Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater healthy and a retooled interior line, this should be a much-improved offense, including second-year back Omarion Hampton. Can under-the-radar signings like Keaton Mitchell and David Njoku help the Chargers catch the Broncos and stay ahead of a bounce-back Chiefs team? McDaniel has speed and talent at his disposal and a chance to set himself up as a top candidate again in 2027. The Rams aren't the only team with dreams of a home-field Super Bowl.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[Eagles Edge Rusher Nolan Smith Jr. Arrested On Suspicion Of Reckless Driving]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/eagles-nolan-smith-jr-philadelphia-eagles-georgia-bulldogs</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/eagles-nolan-smith-jr-philadelphia-eagles-georgia-bulldogs</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Philadelphia Eagles edge rusher Nolan Smith Jr. was arrested in Georgia last week on suspicion of speeding and reckless driving.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2026 12:59:17 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/smithh1.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/smithh1.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[Philadelphia Eagles edge rusher Nolan Smith Jr. was arrested in Georgia last week on suspicion of speeding and reckless driving, authorities said. Smith, who played at Georgia, was arrested on the night of May 15 for driving 135 mph in a 70 mph zone, according to the Twiggs County Sheriff’s Office. He posted bond and was released roughly an hour later. Smith, from Savannah, Georgia, was selected by the Eagles with the 30th pick in the 2023 NFL draft. He has 25 quarterback hits, 10.5 sacks, 10 tackles for loss, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries over three seasons. He played a crucial role in the Eagles' Super Bowl LIX run, recording five quarterback hits, four sacks and four tackles for loss during the playoffs. He famously refused to exit the Eagles' 40-22 Super Bowl victory against the Kansas City Chiefs despite sustaining a torn triceps that later required surgery. Philadelphia begins organized team activities on Tuesday. Smith has a court date scheduled for July 15, but a sheriff’s office representative said he will not need to appear if he pays his fines. A spokesperson for the Eagles didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment from The Associated Press. Smith is the latest former or current Georgia player to be arrested for driving offenses. His Eagles teammate, Jalen Carter, was given 12 months’ probation and a $1,000 fine in 2023 after pleading no contest to misdemeanor charges of reckless driving and racing related to a crash that killed Bulldogs offensive lineman Devin Willock and recruiting staffer Chandler LeCroy. Reporting by The Associated Press.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[2026 NFL Schedule Release: The 5 Teams That Must Get Off To A Good Start]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2026-nfl-schedule-release-5-teams-need-hot-start</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2026-nfl-schedule-release-5-teams-need-hot-start</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Now that we know the 2026 NFL regular-season schedule, we look at which teams have to get out to a good start in the upcoming year.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 18:33:38 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/artboard-1-15.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/artboard-1-15.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[In a 17-game season, starting off slowly can be the difference between reaching the playoffs and making plans for vacations to warmer climates in January. Look no further than the Minnesota Vikings, who dealt with injuries to starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy early and started the year 4-8, but finished on a five-game winning streak and a half-game out of the postseason. The Vikings looked to rectify that issue this offseason by signing former No. 1 overall draft pick Kyler Murray to compete with McCarthy for the No. 1 quarterback job, providing a better opportunity to compete in the NFC North. A slow start could also cost head coaches and general managers their jobs. The Tennessee Titans needed just six games to determine that they saw enough of head coach Brian Callahan last season, while the New York Jets only needed five games to fire Robert Saleh during the 2024 season. So, now that we know what the schedule looks like for the 2026 NFL season, let's take a look at five teams that need a fast start to the upcoming year. After winning four straight NFC South titles, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and head coach Todd Bowles find themselves under pressure entering the 2026 season. The Bucs not only lost seven of their last eight games last season, missing the postseason and finishing with a losing record for the first time since 2019, but they're also replacing a pair of foundational stalwarts. Wide receiver Mike Evans left the team to sign with the San Francisco 49ers, and linebacker Lavonte David announced his retirement. So, Bowles will now enter the season on the hot seat while also having to replace a pair of franchise icons. Bowles has a 35-33 record and has taken the team to the playoffs in three of his first four years of the helm. But can he prove that last season was a blip? Bowles is on the hot seat after last season’s poor finish and needs a strong start to avoid a potential midseason firing. That starts with better play from quarterback Baker Mayfield, who began 2025 strong but scuffled down the stretch, finishing with just one 300-yard passing performance in his last 12 games. Mayfield has some added motivation this season, entering a contract year. A Week 2 matchup with the Cleveland Browns could also spark some extra juice for Mayfield. The Bucs added reinforcements in the draft to a defense that finished No. 27 in pass defense last year, selecting polished Miami (Fla.) pass rusher Rueben Bain in the first round, along with linebacker Josiah Trotter, safety Keionte Scott and defensive tackle DeMonte Capehart. The 49ers somehow managed to deftly navigate a rash of injuries and reach the postseason in the toughest division in football, finishing third in the NFC West. But San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan will have a tough time playing catch-up this season, facing four playoff teams in the final seven games, along with Patrick Mahomes’ Kansas City Chiefs and the John Harbaugh-led New York Giants on the road in the backstretch of the season. That’s why it’s important for the 49ers to start the season strong. They will have some adjustments to make, with Raheem Morris taking over for the departed Robert Saleh as the team’s defensive coordinator. The 49ers added edge rusher Romello Height and interior pass rusher Gracen Holten in the draft to help improve one of the worst pass rushes in the league. San Francisco starts the year with a tough international contest in Australia against the Super Bowl favorites, the Los Angeles Rams, and will log a league-high 38,105 miles during the season. That includes another international contest against the Minnesota Vikings in Mexico City in Week 11. However, after the Rams, the 49ers have winnable games at home against the Miami Dolphins and Arizona Cardinals, so surviving that initial tough road game against Los Angeles and stacking some wins early will be important for Shanahan’s 49ers if they want to have a chance to push for the postseason late in the year. The second — and final — year of the Aaron Rodgers era is officially underway in Pittsburgh, with the Cal product agreeing to a one-year deal, reuniting with his old head coach, Mike McCarthy. Rodgers helped lead the Steelers to the postseason in 2025, which resulted in another early, opening-round exit for the Steel City. But how long will the Steelers stick with Rodgers if they get off to a slow start this season? Pittsburgh drafted Will Howard in the sixth round last year and Drew Allar in the third round this season as development prospects to groom behind the future Hall of Famer. Scouts I spoke with in the pre-draft process liked Allar’s upside, believing he has all the tools to develop into a starting NFL quarterback. If Rodgers struggles early, it increases the urge for McCarthy to hit the eject button on his 42-year-old quarterback and turn to the development of Allar or Howard, especially with the future Hall of Famer announcing that the 2026 season is it for him. Therefore, it will be important for Rodgers to get some wins early, much like Pittsburgh’s 5-3 start in 2025. And the schedule obliges, with only one game against a playoff team last season (New England Patriots) in Pittsburgh’s first eight contests. The Steelers also face the Cleveland Browns twice, and host the Atlanta Falcons, Cincinnati Bengals and Indianapolis Colts at home in the first five games. Speaking of the Colts, general manager Chris Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen are once again on the hot seat, missing the playoffs for a fifth season in a row after starting 8-2 in 2025. Indianapolis faltered after a rejuvenated Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles tendon tear in December, leaving the desperate Colts turning to 44-year-old Philip Rivers in an attempt to rescue the season late in the year. The return of Rivers was entertaining and gave Indianapolis at least a fighting chance to win at the end of the season. However, a healthy return for Jones is imperative to the success of the Colts in a make-or-break season for Ballard, who's in the final year of his contract. It’s a daunting start for the Colts, who face four playoff teams in the first five games and an international game in Week 4 against the Washington Commanders in London. The expectation is that Jones will be ready for the start of training camp in August. Indianapolis re-signed receiver Alec Pierce and Jones to big money in the offseason, and both need to play to their potential — along with running back Jonathan Taylor — carrying the offense in a difficult first part of the schedule to start the year. New head coach Jesse Minter replaces John Harbaugh after the Ravens’ underwhelming performance last season resulted in Baltimore missing the playoffs for the first time since 2021. Under the defensive-minded Minter, expectations are high for the upcoming season. Minter is tasked with returning Baltimore’s defense to its tough and stingy ways. The signing of star edge rusher Trey Hendrickson away from the Cincinnati Bengals should help in that effort. The Ravens also added Missouri edge rusher Zion Young in the second round of the draft to help improve an underperforming pass rush. New offensive coordinator Declan Doyle will look to create an offense that gets the most out of Lamar Jackson, who played in only 13 games for the Ravens last year because of hamstring and back issues. A two-time MVP, Jackson's now on his second head coach, his fourth offensive coordinator and is skipping organized team activities this offseason. With Harbaugh gone, the pressure is on Jackson to lead this franchise. One of the favorites to reach the Super Bowl this season, Baltimore starts with four of its first six games on the road, including a Week 3 international game in Brazil against the Dallas Cowboys. However, the Ravens do not play a team that made the playoffs last season until a Week 8 matchup with Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills. So, the schedule maps out well for a strong start in Minter’s first season with the Ravens.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[Joe Burrow Says Bengals Will Win Super Bowl In 2026: 'Most Talented Roster We’ve Had']]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/joe-burrow-says-bengals-will-win-super-bowl-2026-most-talented-roster-weve-had</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/joe-burrow-says-bengals-will-win-super-bowl-2026-most-talented-roster-weve-had</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Joe Burrow made a bold claim about the Bengals' offseason on Wednesday.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 18:28:43 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/burrow-front.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/burrow-front.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[The Cincinnati Bengals’ 2021 Super Bowl run was driven by a sudden, ahead-of-schedule surge that caught the league off guard. Seven years into the Joe Burrow era, the franchise has shifted away from that postseason magic and toward building a deeper, more complete roster. Well, that's at least how the Bengals' franchise quarterback feels. Burrow made a strong claim about the Bengals' 2026 roster when he met with reporters at voluntary organized team activities (OTAs) on Wednesday. "This is the most talented roster we’ve had since I’ve been here," Burrow said. "The front office has taken a lot of heat from the fans, the public, the media. We can put all of that behind us. They went and made it happen with free agency." But that wasn't the only bold proclamation Burrow made on Wednesday, either. "The No. 1 thing is you have to win," Burrow said, as the Bengals are seeking to make the postseason for the first time since 2022. "We’re going to go win a lot of games this year and play great and win a Super Bowl." The Bengals were pretty active at shoring up their defense this offseason, even if they lost star edge rusher Trey Hendrickson to the Baltimore Ravens, which Burrow said was "not surprising." They signed Seattle Seahawks edge rusher Boye Mafe, Minnesota Vikings defensive lineman Jonathan Allen, and Kansas City Chiefs safety Bryan Cook. But Cincinnati's biggest move of the offseason came via trade. The Bengals traded the 10th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to the New York Giants in order to get three-time Pro Bowl defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence. "And then obviously, with Dexter [Lawrence], making a trade like that, that doesn’t happen a ton in the NFL," Burrow said. "So it’s exciting to see." Burrow’s comments came following some speculation earlier this offseason about his long-term future in Cincinnati. Some have wondered if Burrow’s long-term commitment would depend on whether the front office could find ways to upgrade its defense more effectively. While the offense has remained one of the league’s most dangerous units, the defense has struggled throughout much of Burrow’s prime. Over the last five seasons, Cincinnati has allowed 24.5 points and 380.8 yards per game. Despite that backdrop, Burrow said he remained largely removed from the team’s roster-building process this offseason. "I would say we had a lot of communication during free agency," Burrow said. "We didn’t have our postseason meeting like we typically have. I would say if anything, I was less involved this year than in years past." Even so, Burrow expressed clear approval of the direction the franchise has taken. "There’s no secret that the last several years didn’t go the way we wanted to, and there’s a lot of blame to go around for that, myself included," Burrow said. "We’re in a great spot this year. We brought in great people and great players. You can feel the vibes of the locker room." That renewed energy has carried into offseason workouts, where the Bengals have reportedly shown increased urgency on both sides of the ball. Burrow pointed to the blend of veteran leadership and younger players as a key factor in raising the standard across the roster. "The energy is elevated right now," Burrow said. "We have some veteran guys that can come in and show the younger guys on defense what it takes, what it means to be great every day. That’s exciting to be a part of." The Associated Press contributed to this report.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[Aaron Rodgers, Steelers Odds: How Will A-Rod's Final Season Shape Up?]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/aaron-rodgers-steelers-odds-how-will-a-rods-final-season-shape-up</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/aaron-rodgers-steelers-odds-how-will-a-rods-final-season-shape-up</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Aaron Rodgers announced he has a single season left. How will that season shape up? Let's consider what the odds say.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 16:36:16 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/aaron-520.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/aaron-520.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[Wednesday was one of those news days in the NFL. Aaron Rodgers — a 10-time Pro Bowler, four-time MVP, Super Bowl champion and Super Bowl MVP — revealed that this upcoming season will be his last. After spending 18 years in Green Bay and two years with the New York Jets, his final two seasons will belong to the Pittsburgh Steelers. So, what can we expect from Rodgers and the Steelers in 2026? Let's check out the odds at DraftKings Sportsbook as of May 20. This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. Aaron Rodgers Futures To win regular-season MVP: +10000 (bet $10 to win $1,010 total) What to know: A long shot, but Rodgers has won the award four times, including going back-to-back in 2020 and 2021. But consider this: His numbers last season weren't bad. He completed 65.7% of his passes for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns and only seven picks, for a 10-6 Steelers team. A few more wins, a few more TDs and a few more yards, and who knows what could happen. Regular-season passing yards Over 3,199.5: -110 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total)Under 3,199.5: -110 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total) What to know: Fifteen times in his 21-year career, Rodgers has thrown for more than 3,200 yards. The only times he hasn't crossed that threshold were in 2023 (played one series due to injury), 2017 (only started seven games), 2023 (only started nine games) and 2005-2007 (the first three seasons of his career, where he served as a backup). Steelers Futures Regular-season win total: Over 8.5 (+100), Under 8.5 (-120)To make the playoffs: +145 (bet $10 to win $24.50 total)To miss the playoffs: -175 (bet $10 to win $15.71 total)To win AFC North: +500 (3rd, bet $10 to win $60 total)To win AFC: +2200 (10th, bet $10 to win $230 total)To win Super Bowl: +5000 (19th, bet $10 to win $510 total) What to know: Rodgers has only made the postseason once in the past four years, but the Steelers have made it five of the last six years, including with Rodgers last season. The franchise has famously finished at or above .500 in the regular season for 22 straight years, and 10 of those years have resulted in an AFC North title. The last time Pittsburgh won the AFC was in 2010, and the last time it won the Super Bowl was in 2008.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers To Retire At End Of 2026 Season: 'This Is It']]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/steelers-qb-aaron-rodgers-retire-end-2026-season-this-it</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/steelers-qb-aaron-rodgers-retire-end-2026-season-this-it</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[The end of Aaron Rodgers’ career finally finally has a date.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 15:03:02 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/aaron-rodgers.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/aaron-rodgers.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[The end of Aaron Rodgers’ career finally has a date. After signing a one-year deal to rejoin the Pittsburgh Steelers on May 18, Rodgers revealed to reporters that the 2026 season will officially be his last in the NFL. "This is it," Rodgers said on Wednesday. Rodgers, 42, made the decision after contemplating retirement this offseason. In fact, Rodgers admitted that he thought he was going to retire when Mike Tomlin stepped down as Steelers head coach this offseason. But his mind changed when the Steelers hired Mike McCarthy, who was his head coach for 13 seasons with the Green Bay Packers. "I thought that was probably it for me in Pittsburgh," Rodgers told reporters. "But when the decision was made to hire Mike [McCarthy], I started opening my mind back up to coming back." Rodgers and McCarthy achieved good success together in Green Bay, winning Super Bowl XLV over Pittsburgh in the 2010 season. Together, they recorded 107 wins and made nine playoff appearances. Under McCarthy’s system, Rodgers became one of the most efficient quarterbacks in NFL history. He won two of his four NFL MVP awards in 2011 and 2014 while leading Green Bay’s offense at an elite level. "It is like a [bunch of] ‘pinch me’ moments that have happened in the last few days," Rodgers said following the Steelers' second day of organized team activities. Rodgers already owns a Hall of Fame résumé and is widely expected to become a first-ballot inductee. He needed only 144 games to reach 300 career passing touchdowns and 193 games to hit 400, breaking records previously held by Peyton Manning and Dan Marino. He also shares the highest career passer rating in NFL history among qualified quarterbacks at 102.2. Rodgers’ 2011 season remains one of the greatest by a quarterback, as he posted a record-setting 122.5 passer rating. Rodgers is coming off a strong season in Pittsburgh, completing 65.7% of his passes for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns, and seven interceptions while helping lead the Steelers to an AFC North title. If he hopes to end his career with another championship run, the path through the AFC remains as difficult as ever. As for what to expect for this season, our Ralph Vacchiano predicted that the Steelers would go 8-9 in 2026 following Thursday's schedule release. Vacchiano added that he believes that the "Steelers' season is riding on the old shoulders of Aaron Rodgers." "Whoever their quarterback is will immediately have a tougher challenge if Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow can stay healthy, making the AFC North games much more of a minefield," Vacchiano wrote. "The Steelers also have to go on the road to New England and Philadelphia, and even their trip to Jacksonville won’t be easy. Playing the NFC South and AFC South gives them plenty of soft spots in the schedule. But finishing first last season gave them their division’s toughest schedule. Given their fragile state, stuck between contending and rebuilding, that’s not much of a prize." Vacchiano also had the Steelers drop to No. 25 in his most recent power rankings after the schedule announcement. "Seven of their last nine games are against teams projected to win 9-11 games. Aaron Rodgers’ 42-year-old body should be aching pretty good by then," Vacchiano wrote. But the stage is now set for one final chapter in Pittsburgh under a familiar coach. When the clock finally hits triple zeros on No. 12’s career, one of the greatest careers for a quarterback in NFL history will come to an end.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[2026 NFL Odds: Ranking All 32 Teams By Games They’re Favored In]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2026-nfl-odds-how-many-games-each-team-favored-in</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2026-nfl-odds-how-many-games-each-team-favored-in</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Betting lines for all 272 NFL regular season games are out. Here’s how all 32 teams rank by number of games favored entering 2026.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 14:04:21 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/02/stafford2.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/02/128/72/stafford2.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[One of the most interesting ways to evaluate the NFL landscape is by looking at how many games in which each team is favored. While win totals and Super Bowl odds often dominate the offseason oddsboard, the number of games in which a team is projected to be favored can reveal just as much about their expectations and schedule difficulty. This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. By analyzing the lookahead point spreads for all 272 regular-season matchups, we’ve stripped away the public bias to rank every NFL team by a single, definitive metric: the exact number of games they are favored to win. With that in mind, here is a complete power ranking of all 32 NFL teams based on the number of games they are currently favored in entering the 2026 season. Number of Games Favored: 0 What to know: The Arizona Cardinals are the only NFL team not favored in a single game this season. That number aligns with their projected win total of 4.5 wins, which is tied for the lowest mark in the league. Number of Games Favored: 1 What to know: The Dolphins are favored in just one game this season — their Week 12 home matchup against the New York Jets. Number of Games Favored: 2 What to know: The Browns are only favored in their home matchups against the Raiders and Falcons. This number is well below their projected win total of 6.5. Number of Games Favored: 2 What to know: The Titans are only favored in home games against the Jets and Browns. This number is also well below their projected total of 6.5. Number of Games Favored: 2 What to know: This one came as a pretty big surprise. The Falcons are favored in only two games this season — their home divisional matchups against the Panthers and Saints. Number of Games Favored: 3 What to know: The Raiders are slight favorites in home games against the Dolphins and Titans, along with a road matchup against the Cardinals. Number of Games Favored: 3 What to know: This one is also a big surprise. The 2025 NFC South champs are only favored in three games, including on the road against the Browns and at home against the Saints and Falcons. This number does not reflect their win total projection of 7.5. Number of Games Favored: 4 What to know: The Jets are favored in three home games against the Browns, Dolphins and Raiders, along with a road matchup against the Cardinals. Their number of games favored aligns closely with their projected win total of 5.5. Number of Games Favored: 5 What to know: The Saints are the third NFC South team favored in five or fewer games this season. Despite that, there is still some optimism surrounding the team, as their projected win total sits at 7.5. Number of Games Favored: 5 What to know: Heading into John Harbaugh’s first season, the Giants are favored in five home games against the Titans, Cardinals, Saints, Commanders and Browns. They are not favored in a single road game. Number of Games Favored: 5 What to know: While the Commanders are favored in only five games, there are several matchups throughout the season in which they are currently listed as slight 1-3 point underdogs. Number of Games Favored: 6 What to know: Like the Commanders, the Colts are favored in only six games, but they are listed as slight underdogs in several other matchups throughout the 2026 season. Number of Games Favored: 7 What to know: In Mike McCarthy’s first season reunited with Aaron Rodgers, the Steelers are favored in only seven games. Their projected win total also sits at 8.5, signaling what could be the franchise’s first losing season since 2003. Number of Games Favored: 8 What to know: The Vikings are the only NFC North team that is not favored in a double-digit number of games. A major reason for this lower number is the expectation that the division will once again be one of the toughest in football. Number of Games Favored: 8 What to know: The 2025 AFC South champions won 13 games in Liam Coen’s first season, but their number of games favored suggests there could be some regression in Year 2. However, like several of the teams above them, the Jaguars are slight underdogs in many of the games in which they are not favored in 2026. Number of Games Favored: 9 What to know: The last NFC South team is off the board, and we are only at No. 17 on the list. That makes sense considering the NFC South champion has won nine games or fewer in three of the last four seasons. The Buccaneers were the only exception during that span, winning 10 games in 2024. Number of Games Favored: 10 What to know: After winning 14 regular-season games and representing the AFC in the Super Bowl in 2025, the Patriots are favored in 10 games entering 2026. However, in half of those matchups, they are favored by at least 6.5 points, showing that oddsmakers still view them as one of the stronger teams in the NFL. Number of Games Favored: 10 What to know: Like the Patriots, the Broncos, who also won 14 games in 2025, are favored in only 10 games entering the 2026 season. However, in the seven games they are currently underdogs, they are never listed at worse than +2.5. That said, Denver opens as an underdog in five of its first six games, signaling a very challenging schedule to start the season. Number of Games Favored: 11 What to know: After winning just seven games in 2025, the Cowboys are expected to significantly improve in 2026, as they are favored in 11 games entering the season. They are also favored in five of their six divisional matchups. Number of Games Favored: 11 What to know: There is plenty of uncertainty surrounding the Chiefs due to Patrick Mahomes’ recovery from a torn ACL. However, Vegas still expects Kansas City to be one of the league’s top teams, as the Chiefs are favored in 11 games entering 2026, including each of their first five matchups. That aligns closely with their projected win total of 10.5. Number of Games Favored: 11 What to know: The Chargers are also favored in 11 games entering next season, and they are not listed as underdogs of more than 3.5 points in any matchup in 2026. Number of Games Favored: 12 What to know: The 49ers are one of three NFC West teams favored in 12 games or more entering 2026. San Francisco won 12 games last season despite missing multiple key players for large portions of the year. Outside their divisional matchups, the 49ers are underdogs in only three games: road contests against the Cowboys, Chargers and Chiefs. Number of Games Favored: 12 What to know: In Ben Johnson's first season, the Bears won double-digit games for the first time since 2018. In Year 2, Chicago faces the toughest schedule in the entire NFL, yet Vegas still favors it in 12 games. Number of Games Favored: 12 What to know: Vegas has the Packers favored in 12 games entering the 2026 season. Outside NFC North play, the only games in which Green Bay is currently an underdog are road matchups against the Patriots and Rams. Number of Games Favored: 13 What to know: After winning their last nine regular-season games last year, the Texans are favored in 13 games in 2026. They are favored in all six AFC South divisional matchups. Number of Games Favored: 13 What to know: The Eagles are favored in 13 games entering the 2026 season, including five of their six NFC East matchups. Their number of games favored is also notably higher than their projected season win total of 10.5. Number of Games Favored: 14 What to know: The Lions are favored in 14 of their first 15 games in 2026. The only matchups in which they are currently underdogs are Week 2 at the Bills, Week 17 at the Bears and Week 18 at the Packers. Number of Games Favored: 14 What to know: Coming off a 12-win regular season in 2025, the Bills are favored in 14 games entering next season. The only matchups in which Buffalo is currently an underdog are road games against the Rams, Patriots and Packers. Number of Games Favored: 14 What to know: The Ravens won only eight games last season, largely because Lamar Jackson battled injuries throughout the year. Vegas expects Baltimore to take a major leap forward in 2026. The only games in which the Ravens are currently underdogs are road matchups against the Bills, Texans and Bengals. Number of Games Favored: 14 What to know: The defending Super Bowl champions come in tied for third on the list. The only games in which they are currently underdogs are road matchups against the 49ers, Eagles and Rams. Number of Games Favored: 15 What to know: No, this is not a typo. A Bengals team that won just six games in 2025 is favored in 15 games entering the 2026 season. With Joe Burrow returning and a very favorable schedule, Cincinnati is currently an underdog in only two games: Week 2 at the Texans and Week 7 at the Ravens. Number of Games Favored: 16 What to know: The Rams are remarkably favored in 16 of their 17 games entering the 2026 season. Their only game as an underdog is a Week 16 Christmas Day road matchup against the Seahawks. Last season, the Rams lost to Seattle on the road in Week 16 and again in the NFC Championship Game. Los Angeles is currently the +800 favorite to win the Super Bowl.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[CeeDee Lamb On Giants HC John Harbaugh's 'Kick Cowboys' Ass' Line: 'That's Cute']]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/ceedee-lamb-john-harbaugh-cowboys-giants</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/ceedee-lamb-john-harbaugh-cowboys-giants</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Cowboys star CeeDee Lamb responded to new Giants head coach John Harbaugh saying that he wants to "kick the Cowboys' ass."]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 13:53:41 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/lamb2.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/lamb2.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[At this point, outside the opening night Super Bowl LX rematch between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots, it's safe to say that the Dallas Cowboys going up against the New York Giants in the Meadowlands on Sunday Night Football is the most anticipated Week 1 game of the 2026 NFL season. Why's that? Earlier this week, new Giants head coach John Harbaugh said at a town hall event that piling up good practices will get them "one more step in the direction of being a good enough football team to kick the Cowboys' ass." Cowboys star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb quoted a post on Instagram of Harbaugh saying that line by writing, "lol, that's cute." Of late, the Cowboys have dominated the Giants, winning nine consecutive matchups against their NFC East rival and 16 of 17 before losing on the road to New York in Week 18 of last season, 34-17. As for its other 2025 duel, Dallas and New York teamed up for one of the most dramatic games of the season, as it featured seven lead changes and ended with the Cowboys winning 40-37 on a walk-off, 46-yard field goal from Brandon Aubrey — who made a 64-yard field goal to force overtime — as time expired in overtime. Both teams missed the playoffs, though, with the Cowboys finishing 7-9-1 and the Giants going 4-13. In 12 career games against the Giants, Lamb, a five-time Pro Bowler, has totaled 71 receptions for 975 yards and four touchdowns. Lamb's reception and receiving yard totals against New York are career highs for him against any opponent. The two teams will meet in Dallas on Jan. 3, which can be watched on FOX and the FOX Sports app at 1 p.m. ET.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[Year 2 Leap: Ranking The Top 5 Second-Year Quarterback Breakout Candidates]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/which-second-year-qb-has-most-breakout-potential-ranking-top-5</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/which-second-year-qb-has-most-breakout-potential-ranking-top-5</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Who's most likely to make the Year 2 leap? We rank the top five second-year QBs based on their breakout potential in 2026.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 10:28:57 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/artboard-1-7.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/artboard-1-7.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[To see a great example of a Year 2 leap, look no further than last season. Patriots quarterback Drake Maye, who’d flashed as a rookie in 2024, finished second in NFL MVP voting and guided New England to Super Bowl LX. Who will be the Maye equivalent in 2026 — the quarterback to show exponential growth in his second season? Here’s my top-five ranking of second-year QBs by breakout potential, in descending order: 2025 stats (4 games, 3 starts): 66.3% completion rate for 622 yards and 3 TDs with 3 INTs Ewers is the backup in Miami behind free-agent acquisition Malik Willis, so technically he’s not even in position to "break out." But being part of a rebuilding team that most league observers expect will struggle could offer many opportunities to play. The former seventh-round pick won’t have much help at receiver, though, as the top three WRs on the Dolphins' depth chart — Jalen Tolbert, Malik Washington, Tutu Atwell — combined for just 712 receiving yards last season. 2025 stats (8 games, 7 starts): 56.6% completion rate for 1,400 yards and 7 TDs with 10 INTs There’s no guarantee that Sanders will be Cleveland's QB1 — he appears to be in a competition with veteran Deshaun Watson — but if the former Colorado star is under center, he’ll have a much stronger supporting cast than last season. The Browns revamped their offensive line and added two top-40 draft picks at wide receiver in KC Concepcion and Denzel Boston. With better talent and a new offensive-minded head coach in Todd Monken, Sanders’ numbers in 2026 should show improvement if he’s named the starter. 2025 stats (14 games, 12 starts): 63.7% completion rate for 2,272 yards and 15 TDs with 5 INTs Malik Nabers is expected to be ready for the start of the season, so Dart will continue to grow with a No. 1 wide receiver. Due to injuries, the duo had just four games together last season. Veteran Darnell Mooney, who’s been a 1,000-yard receiver, also adds quality depth. The Giants also have two starting-caliber tight ends in Theo Johnson and free–agent acquisition Isaiah Likely, giving Dart plenty of help in the pass game. New York’s run game should improve with the presence of fullback Patrick Ricard as well. And Dart, the 25th overall pick last year, is a dual threat who can be effective and efficient when using his legs. 2025 stats (17 games, 17 starts): 59.8% completion rate for 3,169 yards and 15 TDs with 7 INTs Tennessee receivers had issues with creating separation and dropping passes last season. With No. 4 overall pick Carnell Tate and free-agent acquisition Wan’Dale Robinson now in the receivers room, Ward has the kind of help on the outside that could spur a Year 2 breakout. New Titans offensive coordinator Brian Daboll was pivotal in Josh Allen’s development from a project into a superstar quarterback in Buffalo, so he could guide a similar leap for Ward in Nashville. Ward and Daboll, then the Giants' head coach, built a strong rapport during the pre-draft process last year. 2025 stats (11 games, 9 starts): 67.6% completion rate for 2,384 yards and 10 TDs with 6 INTs Shough, who finished second in Offensive Rookie of the Year voting to Carolina Panthers receiver Tetairoa McMillan, is the only quarterback on this list to be playing in the same system as a year ago. Staying in head coach Kellen Moore's scheme puts the QB at a huge advantage entering Year 2. And if No. 8 overall pick Jordyn Tyson plays to the expectations of his draft slot, Shough will have two No. 1-caliber receivers with Tyson and Chris Olave. Adding Travis Etienne Jr. in free agency gives the Saints a Pro Bowl-caliber running back, and the team used four of its top five draft picks this year on offensive players. Shough is in an ideal situation to thrive.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[Which NFL QBs Have the Most Help? Ranking All 32 Supporting Casts]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/which-nfl-qbs-have-most-help-ranking-all-32-supporting-casts</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/which-nfl-qbs-have-most-help-ranking-all-32-supporting-casts</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Even the best QBs need a little help from their friends. With the input of NFL scouts, Ralph Vacchiano ranks each team's offensive supporting cast.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 10:05:34 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/liveblog-16x9-1.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/liveblog-16x9-1.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[There’s a reason quarterbacks are the highest-paid players in the NFL. Teams know they can’t win without a good one. And with very few exceptions in modern history, they can’t compete for a Super Bowl without one who is playing well. But the truth is, even the best quarterbacks can’t do it alone. They need a strong supporting cast around them. That includes game-breaking receivers, protection up front and a run game to help keep defenses off balance. A smart and talented playcaller with a strong offensive scheme certainly makes a difference, too. So which NFL teams have the best support systems in place for their quarterbacks heading into the 2026 season? We spoke to a handful of NFL scouts to help determine how all 32 teams stack up on offense — when the QB is taken out of the equation. The Dolphins have a really good center in Aaron Brewer and a speedy, dangerous running back in De’Von Achane. But, well, that’s really about it. Drafting OL Kadyn Proctor in the first round was a step in the right direction, but the line still isn’t good. And with Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle gone, Miami's receiving corps is a mess. Jalen Tolbert and Tutu Atwell are the penciled-in starters, along with Greg Dulcich at tight end, and that’s terrible news for new QB Malik Willis. The Dolphins drafted multiple WRs and TEs between Rounds 3-5, but it’s a lot to expect any of them to really help this year. "They have the worst receiving corps in the league, and it’s not even close," one scout told me. "All they can do this year is either let Willis run, or just get the ball to Achane and get out of his way." It’s hard to find a worse offensive line situation in the league, which is horrible news for a team with big questions at QB. The Browns are likely to have four new starters on the line, including first-round LT Spencer Fano, and may need most of the season to develop any consistency. And it’s not like they’re overflowing with weapons who can make up for their line deficiencies. Their best is probably wideout Jerry Jeudy, who is quite the enigma. He was dazzling in 2024 (90-1,229-4) but a disaster last year (50-602-2, 47.2% catch rate). The Browns do have some promising young position players like RB Quinshon Judkins and TE Harold Fannin. And they have hope for the two receivers they just took in the first two rounds: KC Concepcion and Denzel Boston. "They have a couple of nice, young skill guys," one scout told me. "But it doesn’t matter. None of them are good enough to overcome all their other problems." It doesn’t help that most of the scouts viewed the switch from former coach Kevin Stefanski to new coach Todd Monken as a step backward. "Slightly," one scout told me. "Monken is good. But Stefanski is better." Every scout I spoke with said they liked the direction the Raiders were headed on offense. But they also all agreed, as one scout noted, "they have a very, very long way to go." Their line was terrible last season, but it should be helped by the addition of expensive center Tyler Linderbaum. And with a little improvement up front, RB Ashton Jeanty should have some room to show all the things he couldn't as a rookie. No one is sure what new coach Klint Kubiak will be able to get out of a very iffy receiving corps, though. A healthy Brock Bowers gives them an elite weapon at tight end, but Tre Tucker, Jalen Nailor and Jack Bech are uninspiring. "Nailor’s a deep threat," one scout told me, "but not a No. 1 receiver." Another said: "They took the right first steps, but it’s still not a good spot for a rookie quarterback. That’s not a surprise. But they have to sit (Fernando Mendoza) for a while until Kubiak figures the rest of it out." The Titans added some weapons for QB Cam Ward in the offseason, but that’s not really the problem. "I wouldn’t put my quarterback behind that offensive line," one scout told me. "It was bad last season. And now it might be worse." The signings of center Austin Schlottmann and guard Cordell Volson probably weren’t enough to fix a unit that gave up 55 sacks last season. But their other additions were better. Drafting Carnell Tate No. 4 overall gives them a potential No. 1 WR. And even though WR Wan’Dale Robinson is 5-foot-8, he’s productive and fits perfectly in new offensive coordinator Brian Daboll’s scheme. Daboll can probably lean on his Giants years to figure out how to get the most out of his running backs (Tony Pollard, Tyjae Spears) despite the line issues. "Dabes has always had a brilliant offensive mind," one scout told me. "He’s a really underrated playcaller. He’ll get the most out of that group. I just don’t know if there’s much there." There seems to be a belief in Washington that the return of a healthy Jayden Daniels will make everybody better. They better be right, though, because the Commanders didn’t do a lot to improve his supporting cast in the offseason. Their best weapon, by far, is still WR Terry McLaurin, who will be 31 in September and coming off an injury-plagued season. Their offensive line improved last year, but they haven’t replaced their center, who left in free agency. The only weapon the Commanders added in the passing game was solid (and underrated) TE Chigoziem Okonkwo. They did add veteran RB Rachaad White, who could make for a potent duo with Jacory Croskey-Merritt, who had a surprisingly good rookie season after being drafted in the seventh round. Don’t underestimate the loss of offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, though. He got a lot of credit for helping Daniels post arguably the best rookie season ever for a quarterback. He’s now replaced by former quarterbacks coach David Blough, who has been an assistant for two seasons and has never called plays before. If they ever do find a quarterback, there is potential with this offensive group — though for the most part, it’s still only potential. The only proven commodities are WR Garrett Wilson and RB Breece Hall. "(Wilson) would be a top 10 receiver if he even had a mediocre quarterback," one scout told me. "And Breece can help any team in the league." But after that, there are mostly unknowns. The Jets drafted WR Omar Cooper and TE Kenyon Sadiq in the first round, so maybe they’ll have a little more offensive diversity for new offensive coordinator Frank Reich. Maybe RB Braelon Allen can stay healthy and take some of the tougher carries off Hall’s plate. And maybe the offensive line, anchored by bookend tackles Olu Fashanu and Armand Membou, can continue to improve after a solid 2025. Those are a lot of "maybes." But maybe the offensive foundation is finally there. Every year they tinker with their offensive line, and they did it again this offseason, bringing in probably three new starters. But it’s not clear if it’s any better than the mess of a unit that kept QB C.J. Stroud under constant pressure last season. That’s a big reason why his numbers keep dropping, but it’s far from the only one. "Everyone keeps wondering why C.J. Stroud is regressing," one scout told me. "Well, it’s pretty obvious. Just look at what he has to work with down there." Really, his only dangerous weapon is WR Nico Collins. He’s a big one, to be sure, but beyond that there isn’t much help outside of Dalton Schultz, a high-volume TE who doesn’t provide big returns. The Texans are hopeful that the return of WR Tank Dell will give the offense a spark, but that’s a lot to ask considering he missed all of last season with a knee injury. Houston did trade for RB David Montgomery, who is solid overall and a strong goal-line runner. But he’ll pair with Woody Marks, who is coming off an unimpressive rookie year. So again, it’s really Collins or bust for this offense. There is no doubt that Tetairoa McMillan, the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year, is an explosive weapon. It’s the rest of the weapons that should cause concern. WR Xavier Legette, a former first-round pick, was mostly a non-factor last season. The Panthers are counting on Chuba Hubbard to again be their No. 1 back after he had to play a secondary role to the since-departed Rico Dowdle last year. Carolina got basically nothing in the passing game out of its tight ends in 2025. And the line has a lot of new pieces to integrate after the club signed LT Rasheed Walker and C Luke Fortner in free agency and drafted RT Monroe Freeling in the first round. McMillan should develop into an elite player. But QB Bryce Young is going to need a lot more than that. "I don’t know how you can expect him to develop into what they need him to be with a surrounding cast like that," one scout told me. Here’s a great argument for the importance of the QB in the NFL: "If you take (Arizona’s) skill players and put them in a place with a good quarterback, they’ll win," one scout told me. "They might win a lot." And that’s the problem with evaluating the Cardinals. There is talent here, even if the production hasn’t been great. WR Marvin Harrison Jr.'s production through two years has not matched his promise. Michael Wilson played like a solid No. 1 WR last year. Trey McBride is the best tight end in the NFL, ranking second in catches and sixth in yards among all receivers last year. And there were many scouts who thought RB Jeremiyah Love, the No. 3 overall pick, was the best player in the draft. The Cardinals' line is a problem, however. They hope that signing Isaac Seumalo and drafting Chase Bisontis in the second round will help make their interior stronger, but it’s very much a work in progress. Overall, though, "they have such a great, young core there," another scout told me. "But with a bad quarterback situation, you can’t expect much at all." They had two major problems on offense heading into the offseason: They had a bad offensive line and very little help for WR Chris Olave. They seem to have solved the latter, signing RB Travis Etienne, who’ll be a terrific replacement for the almost-done Alvin Kamara. And they drafted WR Jordyn Tyson, who one scout called "the best receiver in the draft." They also still have dangerous TE Juwan Johnson, so young QB Tyler Shough and offensive whiz head coach Kellen Moore should have enough tools to work with. The line, however, is still an issue. Adding guard David Edwards in free agency was good, but what the Saints really need is improvement from their tackle duo of Kelvin Banks and Taliese Fuaga, both former first-round picks. If they don’t get that, the rest of the additions won’t matter as much as they're hoping. They certainly have given whomever is their quarterback some good receivers to work with. Justin Jefferson is as good as any in football when everything is working right with the offense, and Jordan Addison is a strong No. 2. The Vikings also went out and added the underrated Jauan Jennings to give the QB another option. And TE T.J. Hockenson is a big weapon in the passing game, too — at least when he’s healthy. Beyond that, though, they really have to lean into the mind of head coach Kevin O’Connell because there are some issues. The offensive line was not good nor healthy last season. And they lean way too much on 32-year-old, oft-injured RB Aaron Jones. That lack of a dependable running game is big. It’s why defenses could tee off on Vikings QBs, who were sacked 60 times last season — tied for second-most in the league. They went on an epic run in the second half last season, averaging 32 points per game over their last 11 (including their loss in the playoffs). It looked like they had all the pieces in place on offense. But did they? Brian Thomas Jr., their No. 1 receiver, badly regressed last season. Parker Washington emerged, the trade for Jakobi Meyers helped and TE Brenton Strange is good, but if Thomas keeps fading, there isn't an elite threat here for Trevor Lawrence. Now, as one scout told me, "That may not matter. Liam Coen is that good." In his first season, the Jags head coach sure did look like one of the best young offensive minds in the league. But he’ll have to prove it again, especially after losing bell-cow running back Travis Etienne in free agency. The Jags are taking a huge risk by counting on Bhayshul Tuten and/or Chris Rodriguez to replace him. "Together, they might be better than Etienne," another scout told me. "Tuten is elusive and Rodriguez is a power back. They’ll (complement) each other. But carrying the entire rushing attack? That’s a lot to ask of two guys who haven’t done anything in this league yet." If Malik Nabers hadn’t torn his ACL last season, the Giants would be higher on this list. Maybe much higher. They have a deep receiving corps without Nabers, especially after signing Darnell Mooney and drafting Malachi Fields in the third round this offseason. And the addition of Isaiah Likely gives the Giants potentially the most dangerous TE they’ve had in years. They also have what one scout told me is a "sneaky good" running game behind a much-improved offensive line. If second-year back Cam Skattebo can fully recover from his devastating leg injury, he’ll join Tyron Tracy and Devin Singletary in a potent rotation. All that may be enough for the offense to be good around second-year QB Jaxson Dart, "but Nabers changes everything," one scout told me. "I didn’t think he played great as a rookie (in 2024). He had too many drops and his quarterback play was awful. But look at the numbers he put up (109-1,204-7). With better quarterback play and help around him, he could be a monster." Of course, that’s when he’s fully recovered. Nabers recently had another procedure on his knee and his status for Week 1 is uncertain. The fact that they had the NFL’s 12th-ranked total offense is a miracle considering all the injuries they had last season, and they really believe that better health will get them back where they were. Maybe they’re right. Their line was terrible, giving up 60 sacks, but they were missing LT Rashawn Slater and, for most of the season, RT Joe Alt. RB Omarian Hampton, their 2025 first-round pick, missed half his rookie season, too. The return of those three should definitely help the ground game. But do they have enough weapons in the passing game for their new offensive coordinator? "For Mike McDaniel? Yes," one scout told me. "He’s a mad scientist. He’ll get the best out of those guys." Those guys include WR Ladd McConkey, who got off to a painfully slow start last season, former first-rounder Quentin Johnston, who's disappointed, and TE Oronde Gadsden, who had a promising but erratic rookie season. "Watch (McDaniel) turn (Johnston) into a star," another scout told me. "He’s got pieces there. And he’s the right guy to figure it all out." Justin Herbert is counting on it. Should the Bucs be evaluated on what they are, or what they should be? That’s the problem with this team. For example, losing WR Mike Evans is a huge hit because he’d been a staple of their offense for more than a decade. But he didn’t do much even when healthy last season. Emeka Egbuka looked like an ideal replacement, though — but only if you ignore the alarming drop-off during the back half of his rookie season. Chris Godwin could be the new No. 1, too, but he’s played just 16 games the past two seasons. Then there’s RB Bucky Irving, who was dominant as a rookie but played only 10 games last season and took a back seat to the since-departed Rachaad White. As for the line, should it be judged on its ugly season last year when the projected starting five played just a handful of snaps together? It all makes the Bucs offense a big mystery. There are pieces for new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson, a Sean McVay disciple. But it’s hard to say what that puzzle will look like when completed around Baker Mayfield. No one can say the Steelers aren't doing everything they can to help 42-year-old QB Aaron Rodgers have one last shot at glory. They brought in WR DK Metcalf for him last season, then traded for the underrated (and big) Michael Pittman this offseason. They used a second-round pick on WR Germie Bernard, who’ll be a good No. 3 receiver. They protected Rodgers well last season with a young offensive line, and they just added right tackle Max Iheanachor in the first round. And they brought in RB Rico Dowdle, who should give a jolt to what was a bad rushing attack in 2025. "Dowdle was an underrated pickup," one scout told me. "Nobody knows better how to use him than (Mike) McCarthy," who turned him into a feature back in Dallas two years ago. Dowdle isn’t elite, but the combination of him and Jaylen Warren could be very good. Everything about this evaluation will change if — or, more likely, when — the Patriots complete their trade for WR A.J. Brown. He’s the No. 1 receiver the Patriots thought they were getting in Stefon Diggs last season, only he’s bigger and four years younger. But without Brown, the Pats currently have a bunch of role players in the passing game. Romeo Doubs is a solid No. 2. Kayshon Boutte is a deep threat. And Mack Hollins is a big target, but needs a reduced role at age 32. New England's strength is in the potent 1-2 RB punch of TreVeyon Henderson and Rhamondre Stevenson. But the real key for this team will be the offensive line. It improved from 2024 yet still gave up a ridiculous 47 sacks in the regular season and a record 21 in four playoff games. There’s a good argument about whether those crazy numbers were more the fault of Drake Maye or his line. But it doesn’t matter. The young QB won’t survive another year like that, especially against a much tougher schedule. Make no mistake: This is a Josh Allen-centered offense. "His supporting cast doesn’t matter," one scout told me. "It’s all about him." Well, RB James Cook does play a role, too. And he emerged as a huge force last season when he led the league in rushing, thanks at least in part to one of the NFL’s best offensive lines. But the passing game is really all about Allen, and the Bills seem to treat it that way. "I’ll never understand why they just don’t go out and get (Allen) a No. 1 receiver," another scout told me. "Put him with a top-10 guy and who stops that team? He’ll break every record in the book." They did add D.J. Moore in the offseason, which is an improvement. But he’s 29 and three seasons removed from his WR1 days. Beyond him are mostly third and fourth receivers (Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman, Josh Palmer) and two serviceable tight ends (Dalton Kincaid, Dawson Knox). "They would be unstoppable," the first scout told me, "if they’d just get (Allen) some real help." There is potential for this to be a great supporting cast for QB Jordan Love. But right now, the Packers are lacking a No 1 WR. Christian Watson showed glimpses last season of being that guy, but he has to show he can stay healthy first. Several scouts told me 2025 first-rounder Matthew Golden has the talent to be a go-to option, but last season he was, in the words of one scout, "tragically underused." The Packers also have a game-breaking TE in Tucker Kraft, but he’s coming off a torn ACL. And they have a promising offensive line, though it's coming off a bad season and dealing with a lot of moving parts. So for the moment, the star is 28-year-old Josh Jacobs, a punishing running back who also has to find a way to stay healthy. There’s a lot here for HC Matt LaFleur to work with — when everyone's on the field. The best way to sum up the supporting cast in Kansas City was this statement, from one of the scouts: "Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes have won with a lot less." The reviews were generally good, if not great. Rashee Rice, if he stays healthy and out of trouble — he was sentenced to 30 days in jail Tuesday — can be a No. 1 receiver. Xavier Worthy has uncommon speed, though he hasn’t had the expected production yet. RB Kenneth Walker III is a huge upgrade to what the Chiefs have had in recent years, though it remains to be seen how Reid uses him. And then there’s TE Travis Kelce, back for another season at age 36. "He’s still good, but he’s nowhere near what he used to be," one scout told me. "They have to start moving the offense away from him." Either Rice or Walker might make more sense as the focal point of Reid’s scheme this year. It was unanimous among the scouts I spoke with that Bijan Robinson is the best RB, if not the best offensive skill player, in the game today. That’s a heck of a place for new coach Kevin Stefanski to start, no matter who starts at QB. "He’ll build everything around Bijan," one scout told me. "(Robinson) can’t get the ball enough." Robinson, in fact, was targeted on 37.2% of Atlanta’s plays last season. And "it should be more than that," another scout said. Though it’s not like there’s nothing else here. Drake London is a legit No. 1 WR and a huge target. TE Kyle Pitts finally had his long-awaited breakout season last year. Robinson, London and Pitts make for a great Big 3. The offensive line is only average, though. Helping Atlanta's cause is the fact that Stefanski, despite several years of QB Hell in Cleveland, is still a top-tier offensive mind. Having RB Derrick Henry in the backfield is probably more than enough support for Lamar Jackson, but that’s not all he has. Zay Flowers is emerging as one of the best receivers in the game, and TE Mark Andrews is still a weapon, especially in the red zone (at least as long as he’s healthy). There isn’t much help beyond that, but this is a ground-based attack, so the key is the offensive line. The loss of center Tyler Linderbaum is an undeniable hit. Drafting guard Olaivavega Ioane should help the interior, but center is now a big question mark. So is the hiring of 30-year-old Declan Doyle as the new offensive coordinator. He was the OC in Chicago last season, so at least he has experience watching Ben Johnson run his scheme. For much of last season, their passing offense was a one-man show, but what a phenomenal show it was. Jaxon Smith-Njigba might be the closest thing to Ja’Marr Chase west of the Mississippi. Even with a full season of Rashid Shaeed, which should help diversify the passing attack, the Seahawks might need even more out of JSN this season. There’s just no downplaying the loss of running back Kenneth Walker III, who was huge during their Super Bowl run. RB Zach Charbonnet is good enough to pick up some of the slack. Seattle also made a big first-round bet on RB Jadarian Price, who was the backup running back at Notre Dame. But there’s one other issue for QB Sam Darnold. "Losing Kenny Walker is going to hurt," one scout told me. "Losing Klint Kubiak is going to hurt more." The Seahawks' former offensive coordinator is now coaching the Raiders, and first-time coordinator Brian Fleury has some huge shoes to fill. There are some mixed opinions on the makeup of this offense around Daniel Jones. There is no tougher runner in the league than Jonathan Taylor, but he’s a one-man show who led the league in carries last season (323). He’s got one of the NFL’s best offensive lines in front of him. The Colts also have maybe the best young TE in the league in Tyler Warren. The questions concern the wide receivers. The Colts traded away Michael Pittman and made Alec Pierce a very rich man in free agency. But, as one scout told me, "Pierce is not a No. 1 receiver. There’s no better deep threat in the league, but he’s not going to put up big numbers as the focus of the offense." Slot receiver Josh Downs won’t be the focus, either, which could create a big hole in the passing attack if Pierce doesn’t prove he can do more than he’s been asked to do over his first four years. They were on the verge of a Super Bowl last year with an offense that was good but not explosive. The addition of WR Jaylen Waddle changes all that. He and Courtland Sutton form an elite tandem, and Troy Franklin can be one of the better No. 3 receivers in the league. Quarterback Bo Nix is also supported by possibly the best offensive line in the league and a solid, grind-it-out rushing attack (though that part depends on the always-iffy health of J.K. Dobbins). Add in the brilliant offensive mind of Sean Payton, and there’s not much more Nix could ask for heading into his third season — assuming, of course, that he’s fully recovered from the fractured ankle he suffered in the playoffs. He’ll be well-protected whenever he returns, so he’ll have plenty of time to execute what are always well-conceived game plans. The additions of wideouts Mike Evans and Christian Kirk really could put the Niners' offense over the top, especially since they still have WR Ricky Pearsall and TE George Kittle catching passes and OT Trent Williams protecting the blind side. And, of course, everything in this offense revolves around RB Christian McCaffrey, a perennial MVP contender. But every one of those guys comes with big injury concerns. "They have so many guys with health and age issues," one scout told me. "If they’re healthy, they’re loaded, but how many games do you really think they’ll all be on the field together?" It’s a good question, and if history holds, they won’t like the answer. But QB Brock Purdy still has one other big advantage: head coach Kyle Shanahan. "He’s a nightmare to play against," one scout told me. "You can’t out-scheme him. No matter what he has, he’ll get the most out of it." He always does. Everything with the Bengals starts with Ja’Marr Chase. "Nobody knows how to stop him," one scout told me. "He can do whatever he wants, whenever he wants." And he has help from Tee Higgins, who, one scout told me, "might be the No. 1 receiver on 20 other teams." They also can lean on RB Chase Brown in the passing game, where he had 69 catches to go with his 1,019 rushing yards last year, making him one of the best dual threats in the NFL. The Bengals are really top-heavy, though, because they don’t have much beyond their Big 3. And they're surprisingly returning all five starters from an offensive line that wasn’t very good last season. Considering nothing is more important for the Bengals than keeping QB Joe Burrow healthy, this was a curious decision. But Burrow’s intelligence and quick release might be able to compensate for that. And if it does, he’s got enough weapons to score a ton of points. Veteran QB Jared Goff has a trio of elite skill players, which is a great place to start. Amon-Ra St. Brown has become unstoppable, Jameson Williams is one of the best big-play receivers in the NFL. And Jahmyr Gibbs is a remarkable combination of power and elusiveness. But there are potential issues in Detroit. Gibbs and David Montgomery have made quite a combo in recent years, but the latter is now in Houston and was replaced by Isiah Pacheco. "He’s a good replacement," one scout told me, "but only if he’s healthy. That’s really a big risk." Another risky bet is TE Sam LaPorta, who's coming off back surgery and hasn’t been able to duplicate his success as a rookie in 2023. The Lions also needed to fix some holes on their offensive line, which they hope they did by drafting RT Blake Miller and signing C Cade Mays. So the talent is there for new offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, who takes over an offense that was inconsistent last season yet still ranked fifth overall in scoring and total yards per game. They looked so dysfunctional all last year, but it was never because of a lack of talent around QB Jalen Hurts. The truth is, Philly is still loaded on offense. Saquon Barkley has 2,000-yard potential. The offensive line is the envy of most teams, despite coming off a relative down season. Dallas Goedert, as long as he stays healthy, is a reliable and dangerous tight end. And even if they trade A.J. Brown — which seems increasingly likely — they have a deep and dangerous receiving corps. DeVonta Smith is a worthy No. 1. In fact, he could become a top-five receiver once he’s out of Brown’s needy shadow. The Eagles also traded for Dontayvion Wicks and drafted Makai Lemon in the first round, and they signed Hollywood Brown, who is still only 28. All three wideouts could contribute a lot. New offensive coordinator Sean Mannion is younger than some of his players and has never been a coordinator before. But he sure has a lot of talent to work with in his first year. They look frighteningly like the Lions of a few years ago, led by a dangerous 1-2 punch at running back, a field-stretching tight end and an offensive game plan that’s hard to predict. That’s the brilliance of head coach Ben Johnson, the former Lions offensive coordinator. "His mind is on par with McVay’s," one scout told me. "He knows what his players can do better than any coach in the league." That’s great for QB Caleb Williams, who is protected by a top-three offensive line and has a thunder-and-lightning backfield with Kyle Monangai and D’Andre Swift. "You can game plan to stop one," one scout told me, "but not both." What Williams really needs is for a wide receiver to emerge so that tight end Colston Loveland doesn’t have to be his top target. Either Rome Odunze or Luther Burden could fill that void, though the former must first show that there aren't any lingering issues in his foot after suffering a stress fracture late last year. Wide receivers CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens have a chance to put up some scary numbers in this offense if they can both stay healthy. Both are explosive enough to be considered top 10 in the league. And Dallas has other weapons, too, such as tight end Jake Ferguson and deep threat KaVontae Turpin. What really vaults the Cowboys on this list, though, is their commitment to Javonte Williams and the running game. "(Williams) surprised me with how strong a runner he was," a scout told me. "But I was even more surprised by how much he was used. He really takes the pressure off the passing game." It also helps that Dak Prescott has a top-tier line protecting him. If left tackle Tyler Guyton and center Cooper Beebe can stay healthy, Dallas might have one of the best lines in the league. No quarterback has more around him than 38-year-old Matthew Stafford. His line gave up only 23 sacks last season, tied for the fewest in the league. And it’s hard to find a more lethal wideout duo than Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, who remains strong and reliable despite his age (33). Kyren Williams is an elite running back and Blake Corum gives the Rams a 1-2 punch that is hard to stop. And while they may not have an elite tight end, the trio of Colby Parkinson, Tyler Higbee and David Allen combined for 92-897-14 last season, which any team would gladly take. That’s a lot to work with before factoring in head coach Sean McVay — "by far the best offensive mind in the league," as one scout told me. "They can attack you from anywhere, anytime. And (McVay) knows where your weakest spots are."]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[Chiefs WR Rashee Rice Ordered To Jail After Violating Terms Of Probation]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/chiefs-wr-rashee-rice-ordered-jail-after-violating-terms-probation</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/chiefs-wr-rashee-rice-ordered-jail-after-violating-terms-probation</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Rashee Rice has been ordered to serve 30 days in jail after violating his probation agreement, which will force him to miss the rest of the Chiefs' offseason program.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2026 19:54:04 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/rashee-rice.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/rashee-rice.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice has been sentenced to serve 30 days in jail after testing positive for marijuana in violation of the terms of his probation for his role in a crash that left multiple people injured on a Dallas highway two years ago. The Texas State Attorney’s Office said Tuesday that Rice was ordered to go to jail now as part of his original sentence for the third-degree felony of racing and causing bodily injury. Rice is set to be released on June 16, which is five days after Chiefs' minicamp ends. The Chiefs declined to comment on the case. Rice, 26, pleaded guilty to two third-degree felony charges of collision involving serious bodily injury and racing on a highway causing bodily injury in the March 30, 2024, crash. As part of his sentencing, it was initially ruled that Rice would be able to serve his 30-day jail sentence at any point during his five years of probation. Rice was also required to pay the victims for their out-of-pocket medical expenses, which totaled about $115,000. Rice was driving a Lamborghini Urus SUV at 119 mph (191 kph) when he made "multiple aggressive maneuvers around traffic" and struck other vehicles, according to prosecutors. Prosecutors said that after the crash, Rice failed to check on the welfare of those in the other vehicles and fled on foot. Shortly after his sentencing, Rice apologized for his role in the crash, saying he had "a lot of sleepless nights thinking about the damages that my actions caused." "I am profoundly sorry for the physical damages to person and property," Rice added in the statement. "I fully apologize for the harm I caused to innocent drivers and their families." A month after Rice's sentencing, the NFL suspended him for six games for violating the league's personal conduct policy. Rice had 53 receptions for 571 yards and five touchdowns in eight games last season before he was placed on injured reserve due to concussion-like symptoms. Rice tore his ACL the previous season, limiting him to only four games in 2024 after a breakout rookie campaign in 2023. News also broke on Tuesday of Rice's recent surgery. Before serving his 30-day jail sentence for a probation violation, Rice underwent a clean-up surgery last week in Dallas to remove loose debris and inflammation from his right knee, ESPN reported. The procedure is expected to sideline Rice for the next two months. The Associated Press contributed to this report.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[Ravens' Coach Jesse Minter Dismisses Concern Over Lamar Jackson’s OTA Absence]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/ravens-coach-jesse-minter-dismisses-concern-over-lamar-jacksons-ota-absence</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/ravens-coach-jesse-minter-dismisses-concern-over-lamar-jacksons-ota-absence</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Lamar Jackson was absent from a voluntary practice for the Baltimore Ravens]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2026 18:25:35 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/minterfront.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/minterfront.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[Lamar Jackson was absent from a voluntary practice for the Baltimore Ravens, and that usually raises eyebrows. New coach Jesse Minter didn't seem to be sweating it. "Lamar’s been one of our leaders of the offseason program, and he had a couple things going on yesterday and today, and I do expect him to be back soon," said Minter, who replaced John Harbaugh after last season. "We’ve had some great conversations. I know when he’s going to be back and again, I’ll probably leave those between me and Lamar." Jackson's attendance at these types of OTAs has been sporadic over the years. It's hard to say how much that matters, but it's certainly an issue critics have pointed to from time to time. His contract, with two years remaining, has also been a significant topic lately after he and the Ravens did not agree to an extension before the start of free agency. Baltimore instead restructured Jackson's deal to create cap space. Jackson was at Minter's first minicamp with the Ravens last month. That camp wasn't open to reporters, but Tuesday's OTA was, and it offered a chance to see how the new coach handled practice on a hot day in Owings Mills. At the end, the team took part in a little game in which players from the offense and defense competed at throwing medicine balls. Minter said that's part of preparing the team to play well in the most important moments, something the Ravens have struggled with the past few years. "We end practice every day (with an) ‘At our best when our best is needed’ period, and so that could be anything different. Today, we decided to do a little friendly competition," Minter said. "Right now, you can’t really do the football competition, and so I thought it would be something different, something fun. I try to get guys to not know what’s about to happen and answer the bell when their number’s called, and it’s as simple as that. That’s really all we’re trying to get done with that and make it fun, have the guys pull for each other." Earlier, there was a scary moment when running back Derrick Henry banged knees with another player and stayed down on the ground for a bit. He was able to resume practicing shortly thereafter. "The ground felt like a bed for a little while," he said. "And I saw you all (reporters) looking hot and bored, so I was like, ‘I need to give them something to tweet and write about.’" Reporting by the Associated Press]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[Vikings Will Host 2028 NFL Draft at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis-St. Paul]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/vikings-will-host-2028-nfl-draft-u-s-bank-stadium-minneapolis-st-paul</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/vikings-will-host-2028-nfl-draft-u-s-bank-stadium-minneapolis-st-paul</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Vikings will host 2028 NFL Draft at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis-St. Paul.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2026 16:02:29 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/vikingshome.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/vikingshome.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[The Land of 10,000 Lakes is preparing to welcome the next generation of football stars. In 2028, the NFL Draft will officially head to Minneapolis-St. Paul, turning the Twin Cities into the center of the football world for three unforgettable days. NFL owners voted Tuesday at the league’s spring meeting to award the 2028 NFL Draft to the Vikings, the team announced. The Twin Cities become the third NFC North market to host one of the league’s marquee events within a five-year span, joining Detroit and Green Bay. "Minnesota knows how to show up for big moments, and we've seen it firsthand," NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said. "This is a market that delivers at the highest level. Working with the Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Sports and Events, we look forward to bringing the 2028 NFL Draft to this great community, driving positive economic impact throughout the region, and hosting an incredible experience for fans and the next generation of the NFL." Minnesota previously hosted Super Bowl LII in 2018 and has continued to establish itself as a destination for major sporting events on the national stage. "For three days, Minnesota will become the center of the football world," co-owner and president Mark Wilf said. "The 2028 NFL Draft will give us an opportunity to showcase not just U.S. Bank Stadium, but the energy, hospitality and pride that define Minneapolis-St. Paul and the entire state and region. We have no doubt the community will deliver a world-class event that is unique to Minnesota." With the NFL Draft heading to Minnesota, it will join a growing list of cities turning the league’s offseason showcase into a nationwide celebration. Backed by U.S. Bank Stadium and passionate Vikings fans, it will blend spectacle with football tradition. As things stand, the Vikings are set to hold all seven rounds of their draft picks and should remain active as the host. They will follow the Washington Commanders, who are scheduled to host the 2027 NFL Draft. By the time the first pick is announced in 2028, the Land of 10,000 Lakes will once again be in the national spotlight, welcoming the football world for a weekend expected to blend tradition, excitement and a uniquely Minnesota atmosphere.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[Seahawks Star Jaxon Smith-Njigba On NFL Trophy Gaffe: 'Getting Disrespectful']]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/seahawks-jaxon-smith-njigba-trophy</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/seahawks-jaxon-smith-njigba-trophy</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[The NFL made a mistake on Seahawks star Jaxon Smith-Njigba's Offensive Player of the Year trophy but not in the way you may think.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2026 15:57:11 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/jsn1.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/jsn1.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[Plenty of people have botched the pronunciation of Seattle Seahawks star wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba's name, but the NFL invented a new way to fumble it. Smith-Njigba, who earned 2025 NFL Offensive Player of the Year honors, posted a video of his trophy for the award, which reads "2025 Defensive Player of the Year," instead of "2025 Offensive Player of the Year." "It's getting disrespectful, guys," Smith-Njigba said in a video he posted to his Instagram account about the trophy. NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy told The Athletic that Smith-Njigba will receive a new trophy following the error, and apologized on behalf of the league. "The league made the mistake. We sincerely apologize to Jaxon for the error and are in the process of creating and shipping him a new trophy," McCarthy added in his comments to The Athletic. "Of course, like the teams he played against this year, we know how great an offensive player he is. We just had a problem spelling it." When Smith-Njigba was named the winner of the award back in February, comedian Druski mispronounced his name at the NFL Honors. Druski said he attempted to apologize to Smith-Njigba after the mishap, but didn't hear back from him. As for the year that the "2025 Offensive Player of the Year" is coming off, Smith-Njigba, a Pro Bowler in each of the last two seasons, totaled 119 receptions for an NFL-high 1,793 yards (15.1 yards per reception) and 10 touchdowns in the regular season, helping the receiver earn his first career All-Pro honor. Smith-Njigba's 19 receptions were fourth in the sport, and his 10 receiving touchdowns were tied with Los Angeles Rams star wide receiver and fellow two-time Pro Bowler Puka Nacua for sixth. Smith-Njigba led the NFL with 1,378 yards when lined up as an outside receiver, according to Next Gen Stats. Then, in the postseason, he logged 17 receptions for 199 yards and two touchdowns, highlighted by a 153-yard performance against the Rams in the NFC Championship Game en route to Seattle's Super Bowl LX triumph. In 2024, Smith-Njigba totaled 100 receptions for 1,130 yards (11.3 yards per reception) and six touchdowns. Smith-Njigba, who Seattle selected with the No. 20 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft out of Ohio State, has never missed a game in his three-year NFL career (2023-25). In March, he signed a four-year, $168.6 million extension, with the $42.15 million average annual value an NFL record for a wide receiver. As for Smith-Njigba's franchise standing, his 119 receptions and 1,793 receiving yards in 2025 are each first in a single season in Seahawks history, with his 100 receptions in 2024 tied with wide receiver Tyler Lockett (2020) for second. Furthermore, Smith-Njigba already stands 10th in franchise history with 282 career receptions and 20 receiving touchdowns, while being 11th with 3,551 receiving yards.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[2026 NFL Free Agency: Who Should Sign The Biggest Names Left On The Market?]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2026-nfl-free-agency-who-signs-biggest-names-left-stefon-diggs-deebo-samuel</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2026-nfl-free-agency-who-signs-biggest-names-left-stefon-diggs-deebo-samuel</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Stefon Diggs, Joey Bosa and Deebo Samuel are three of several big-name NFL free agents still available. We pick their best fits.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2026 13:45:06 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/54bdc6a6-artboard-1-6.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/54bdc6a6-artboard-1-6.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[With NFL offseason programs well underway, including OTAs for teams with new head coaches, several big-name players remain available in free agency. Where will they land? I take on the role of matchmaker, pairing 10 of the highest-profile names still on the market with teams that make the most sense. Alec Pierce has been elevated to the Colts’ WR1 slot, but they could still use more depth at wide receiver after trading Michael Pittman Jr. to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Colts GM Chris Ballard said in April that Pierce could miss three months following offseason ankle surgery. The second-best wide receiver on Indianapolis’ roster is currently Josh Downs, who had a career-low 566 receiving yards last season. Diggs had a comeback season last year with the New England Patriots, catching 85 passes for 1,013 yards. Yes, he's 32 and has a lot of wear and tear, but he didn't miss a game in 2025 and played in his first Super Bowl. While Myles Garrett broke the NFL’s single-season sack record last season (23.0), the Browns didn’t have another edge rusher who reached six. So there’s an opportunity to add more playmaking on what’s already a strong defense. The 30-year-old Bosa, a five-time Pro Bowler with the Chargers, had five sacks and a league-high five forced fumbles with the Buffalo Bills in 2025. The Seahawks shouldn’t rule out more depth at wide receiver. Given that he’ll have a full year with Seattle in 2026, midseason acquisition Rashid Shaheed should naturally step into the WR2 role alongside Offensive Player of the Year Jaxon Smith-Njigba. But Cooper Kupp is entering his age-33 season. New Seahawks offensive coordinator Brian Fleury and the 30-year-old Samuel overlapped in San Francisco from 2019-24, including for Samuel’s first-team All-Pro season in 2021. At 35 years old, Wagner is well past his prime. But he remains a very cerebral and effective player in the run game, coming off his 10th straight season with at least 130 tackles. It’s why he makes sense as a top backup option for the 49ers, who have injury concerns at both inside linebacker positions — former All-Pro Fred Warner is coming off a season-ending ankle injury, and Dre Greenlaw has played in just 10 games over the past two seasons combined. Wagner’s longtime Seahawks teammate, KJ Wright, is also San Francisco’s linebackers coach. The Texans don’t have reliable pass-catching tight end behind starter Dalton Schultz, so that’s a void Smith can fill. Houston offensive coordinator Nick Caley was also Smith’s position coach with the Patriots from 2021-22. Hill’s status for 2026 remains unclear after dislocating his left knee and tearing multiple ligaments, including his ACL, last September. But after an unceremonious end to his Miami Dolphins’ tenure, a return to the Chiefs makes sense, health-enabling. He would provide much-needed veteran depth for a wide receiver room that’s seen uneven play since his departure from Kansas City in 2022. Following the draft, the Bears could still use more depth at edge rusher behind Montez Sweat. The 36-year-old Jordan, who had 10.5 sacks last season with the Saints, spent a decade with Chicago defensive coordinator Dennis Allen in New Orleans (2015-24). The Niners could use some insurance behind star edge rusher Nick Bosa (coming off a torn ACL), as their pass rush struggled in 2025 with Bosa missing 14 games. The 33-year-old Clowney, the first pick of the 2014 NFL Draft who's now played for seven teams, has had at least 8.5 sacks in two of his past three seasons. With Aaron Rodgers returning to Pittsburgh, it’s not the worst idea for the Steelers to load up on bodyguards for the 42-year-old quarterback. Starting left tackle Broderick Jones is coming off a season-ending neck injury. The Steelers drafted former Arizona State offensive tackle Max Iheanachor in the first round, but it’s not uncommon for rookie offensive linemen to struggle. Decker, a longtime starter for the Detroit Lions, would give Pittsburgh veteran depth. [2026 NFL Free Agency Tracker] Bitonio’s former offensive line coach with the Browns, Bill Callahan, now has the same position with the Falcons, so Atlanta is a natural landing spot for him. The Falcons have starting guards in place with Chris Lindstrom and Matthew Bergeron, but offensive line depth is never a bad thing. Atlanta just saw Kaleb McGary, its starting right tackle from 2019-24, retire in April.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[Super Bowl Locations, Dates for 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030?]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/super-bowl-locations-dates</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/super-bowl-locations-dates</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Check out the locations and dates for upcoming Super Bowls, including next season in Inglewood, California.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2026 13:41:08 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/02/sofi.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/02/128/72/sofi.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[The Super Bowl will continue to have a West Coast feel through the end of the 2020s, but it'll be heading to a new city at the turn of the decade. Super Bowl LXIV will be played at the new Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee, the league announced in May. The stadium hasn't been opened yet. However, the Tennessee Titans will call the new Nissan Stadium home starting in 2027. The new Nissan Stadium is expected to have a 60,000-seat capacity, and it will be an enclosed stadium. The Super Bowl, which will be played in February 2030, will be the first one held in Nashville. The announcement of Super Bowl LXIV heading to Nashville came two months after the league announced that Super Bowl LXIII would be played in Las Vegas' Allegiant Stadium. It'll mark the sixth Super Bowl to be played in Arizona, California or Nevada in an eight-year span, as that game is scheduled to take place in February 2029. The most recent Super Bowl took place at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, with the Seattle Seahawks dominating the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX at the San Francisco 49ers' home stadium. The Super Bowl won't travel very far in February 2027, with Los Angeles' SoFi Stadium set to host the game for the second time. After Levi's Stadium hosted its second Super Bowl, it will be SoFi Stadium's turn to host the title game for the second time. After that, the NFL will reportedly have two more stadiums to host their second Super Bowl. Let's take a look at the sites of future Super Bowls: Super Bowl Locations and Dates Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, the site of the Philadelphia Eagles' triumph in February 2025, hosted its 11th Super Bowl, which is tied for the most selections in history. SoFi Stadium will host its second Super Bowl in 2027 — the first was Super Bowl LVI in 2022. In 2028, Mercedes-Benz Stadium will host its second Super Bowl, most recently hosting in 2019. Finally, Super Bowl LXIII will be played at Allegiant Stadium in February 2029, the league announced in March. It'll mark the second Super Bowl to be played in Las Vegas, with the city's first Super Bowl taking place in February 2024. The Kansas City Chiefs won Super Bowl LVIII that year, defeating the San Francisco 49ers in the second Super Bowl to ever go to overtime.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[A Music City Super Bowl: 2030 Super Bowl To Be Played In Nashville]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2030-super-bowl-lxiv-location-nashville-titans</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2030-super-bowl-lxiv-location-nashville-titans</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[The NFL is taking the 2030 Super Bowl to Nashville and the Tennessee Titans’ new Nissan Stadium.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2026 13:26:18 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/titans-stadium.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/titans-stadium.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[The NFL is taking the 2030 Super Bowl to Nashville and the Tennessee Titans' new Nissan Stadium after team owners voted Tuesday to hold the league's championship game in the Music City for the first time. Once the Titans broke ground on the $2.1 billion enclosed stadium, a Super Bowl being played in Nashville appeared to be only a matter of time. Commissioner Roger Goodell said in November that Nashville lacked only the stage after setting a new standard for the league with record attendance at the 2019 draft. "That for us changed the future of the draft, arguably changed the future of the Titans and the community," Goodell said. "And I think this is the next great step in a remarkable football journey and a great community in Nashville. We can’t wait to be there." The Titans are on schedule to finish the new stadium directly across from the current Nissan Stadium in February, completing the three-year construction. Critics worried the planned capacity wasn't big enough to host a Super Bowl, though league officials were updated throughout the process. Awarding the 2030 Super Bowl to Nashville gives the Titans three full seasons to work out any kinks. Controlling owner Amy Adams Strunk said the Titans are thrilled Nashville’s first Super Bowl is coming and thanked Goodell, her fellow NFL owners and the Nashville Convention &amp; Visitors Corp for their partnership. "We cannot wait for our community to experience an event of this magnitude and for the world to see the energy, hospitality, and culture that make our city so special on a global stage," she said. "We look forward to bringing an unforgettable Super Bowl experience to Nashville together." Nashville impressed the NFL when the executives who work on the league’s big events saw the Music City touch in 2019. Bands played between draft picks and headliners like Tim McGraw helped cap each day’s events. Fans poured in for the party in the Lower Broad honky-tonk district. with other events at the Titans’ current stadium a short walk across a pedestrian bridge. "We are grateful to the NFL for the confidence they have placed in our community," said Deana Ivey, president and CEO of the Nashville Convention &amp; Visitors Corp. "Nashville has earned a reputation for hosting major events at the highest level, and we are ready to welcome the world." Only New Orleans and Las Vegas among NFL venues have more hotel rooms within a one-mile radius of the stadium, with the Nashville market area projected to have 658 hotels with more than 80,000 hotel rooms by 2030. Nashville currently has more than 61,000 hotel rooms available. The new stadium is being built with $760 million in bonds issued by Nashville’s sports authority, with an additional $500 million in state bonds. The combined $1.2 billion in public funding was considered the largest public commitment in funding for an NFL stadium when approved in 2022. Burke Nihill, the Titans’ president and CEO, said that the commitment from city, state and community leaders helped make Tuesday’s announcement possible. "We are grateful to the NFL for the opportunity to host in 2030," he said. "Beyond the game itself, this event will create lasting impact for Nashville, our fans, and the entire region for years to come." The announcement adds to the NFL’s Super Bowl lineup of SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, hosting in 2027 followed by Atlanta in 2028 and Las Vegas in 2029. Nashville isn’t content with lining up just a Super Bowl for the new Nissan Stadium. Former Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam, also controlling owner of the NHL’s Nashville Predators, is chairman of the Music City Major Events group assembled in 2023 to bring other high-profile events to the stadium. The NFL also announced Tuesday that Minnesota will host the 2028 draft, a decade after hosting its last Super Bowl in 2018. Pittsburgh drew a record 805,000 fans over three days in April for the draft. Washington will host the 2027 NFL draft. Reporting by The Associated Press.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[2026 NFL AGOTW Odds: Books Anticipate Major Action on Marquee Matchups]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2026-nfl-americas-game-of-the-week-odds</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2026-nfl-americas-game-of-the-week-odds</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Weekly, America has its game. Patrick Everson reports on the early betting action for FOX Sports' marquee slate.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2026 11:33:21 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/jayden-518.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/jayden-518.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[In the wake of the NFL schedule release, bookmakers wasted no time. A few sportsbooks already have NFL odds up for every game of the regular season, save for Week 18. FOX Sports didn’t dither, either, announcing its America’s Game of the Week lineup for the 2026-27 campaign, along with a massive Christmas Day game. So without delay, let’s dive into a few of those matchups, with insights from Caesars Sports head of football trading Joey Feazel. This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. Week 1 — Commanders vs. Eagles (-4.5) Two seasons ago, the Eagles won the Super Bowl in a rout of the Chiefs. Last season, Philadelphia exited early with a 23-19 home loss to the 49ers on Wild Card Weekend. Semi-similarly, the Commanders had a huge 2024-25 campaign behind breakout rookie QB Jayden Daniels. Washington surprisingly reached the NFC Championship Game before losing to the Eagles. Then, like Philly, the Commanders backslid last season, though much further, finishing a dismal 5-12. That was due in large part to Daniels missing several games with injuries, including the final four contests after re-injuring a previously dislocated left elbow. So both teams have plenty of motivation for this 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff on Sunday, Sept. 13. "Jayden Daniels should be good to go," Feazel said, before diving into potential problems. "Both teams have had less-than-desirable offseasons. We’re waiting for the Commanders to pick up another wide receiver to go with Terry McLaurin, and their running backs aren’t much to write home about. "And A.J. Brown is probably going to be traded from the Eagles to the Patriots." Caesars opened Philly as a 4.5-point home favorite. "I think bettors are gonna come in on the Eagles," Feazel said. Week 5 — Bears vs. Packers (-3.5) These NFC North rivals played three times in six weeks last season, and Chicago took two of those three meetings. In Week 14, Green Bay won 28-21 at home. Two weeks later, the Bears trailed 16-6 at home, late in the fourth quarter. But Chicago put up a field goal and touchdown in the final two minutes to tie it at 16, then won 22-16 on a 46-yard touchdown pass from Caleb Williams to DJ Moore. Three weeks later, in the wild-card round, the Packers led 21-3 at halftime and 21-6 after three quarters. The Bears again made a big comeback at home, clinching a 31-27 victory on a Williams-to-Moore 25-yard TD pass. Feazel said the Bears’ surprising run to the divisional round — where they lost at home in overtime to the Rams — will certainly attract the public betting masses this season and in this game, on Oct. 11. "We’re gonna see some Bears money coming in here," he said. "There’s still sentiment that the Packers are not delivering. They showed promise at times last season, and at times looked flat. "So I’m gonna anticipate seeing some ‘dog money in the offseason. The public is very high on the Bears at this moment. We’ve already been taking action on Bears futures, including the season win total (9.5)." Week 7 — Packers vs. Lions (-2.5) It’s another NFC North clash. As noted above, Green Bay’s 2025-26 campaign ended in the wild-card round. Detroit didn’t even reach the playoffs. The Lions, a darling of public bettors dating to the middle of the 2022-23 season, finally went in reverse. In mid-December, Detroit was 8-5, coming off a 44-13 win over Dallas. Then the Lions dropped three in a row before edging the Bears in the season finale. But 9-8 wasn’t enough to get a postseason bid. Still, Feazel thinks Dan Campbell’s squad has some goodwill with the betting masses. "The Lions lost Ben Johnson to the Bears last year and took a step back. But they were still respected by bettors, week in and week out," Feazel said. "I expect that to continue. With that explosive offense, I think the Lions will remain a public team." Packers vs. Lions takes place on Oct. 25. Week 12 — Seahawks vs. 49ers (-1.5) Seattle began the 2025-26 season with a 17-13 home loss to San Francisco. Then the Seahawks won 14 of their next 16 games, got the NFC’s No. 1 seed and ran all the way to the Super Bowl title, beating the Patriots 29-13. That run included back-to-back wins over the 49ers: 13-3 on the road in the regular-season finale, followed by a 41-6 wipeout at home in the divisional round. Counting the playoffs last year, the Seahawks went 16-3 straight up (SU) and a money-printing 14-5 against the spread (ATS). Still, with many months to go before this Nov. 29 contest, Caesars pegged the Niners as 1.5-point home favorites. "This game will drive a lot of action," Feazel said. "The Seahawks lost a lot of pieces in the offseason and didn’t do much to replace all that. We think Seattle will take a little step back this season. And the public didn’t really buy into the Seahawks last season until the playoffs. "California bettors, both north and south, they come to Nevada to bet the 49ers. I expect to see significant 49ers action here." Week 14 — Chiefs vs. Bengals Everyone hopes this is a healthy Patrick Mahomes vs. a healthy Joe Burrow, battling for playoff position on Dec. 13 in Cincinnati. Recall that last season, Mahomes tore his left ACL/LCL in a Week 15 loss to the Chargers. It was just another setback in a stunningly long season for Kansas City, which went a dismal 6-11. Burrow suffered a turf toe injury in Week 3 that kept him out for nine games. Like the Chiefs, the Bengals went a disappointing 6-11. "We’re happy to see this one coming down in December, later in the year," Feazel said. "The AFC is wide open. If the Chiefs play well the first half of the season, you’ll see some Chiefs action — if they’re back in fighting form. "And there’ll be a lot of same-game parlays, especially if both teams are healthy. Bettors love that Bengals offense. It could be a great game." Week 16 — Rams vs. Seahawks This contest isn’t part of the FOX America’s Game of the Week lineup, since it’s not on a Sunday. But it’s massive just the same, a prime-time Christmas evening clash in Seattle. Just like Seahawks-Niners, there were three Rams-Seahawks meetings last year. All three were close and Seattle won two of them. That included a screamer of a Thursday night game in Week 16. The Seahawks rallied from a 30-14 fourth-quarter deficit to tie it at 30 and force overtime. On the first possession of OT, the Rams got a Puka Nacua TD on a 41-yard pass from Matthew Stafford. Then Seattle countered with a 4-yard TD pass from Sam Darnold to Jaxon Smith-Njigba. But instead of kicking the PAT to tie it at 37, the Seahawks went for two and converted to win 38-37. The two teams then met in the NFC Championship Game, another high-scoring affair, with Seattle winning 31-27. For the Week 16 holiday showdown, Caesars opened with another short point spread, at Seahawks -1.5. "It’s close to a pick ‘em, similar to what we saw last year," Feazel said. "The NFL is displaying these teams a lot, with both getting seven stand-alone games. As the late Christmas game, there will be plenty of action." Recent history also allows Feazel to have high wagering expectations. "Those were three of our highest-bet games last season, so this will probably be one of our biggest-bet games of the year," he said. "And I’d expect to get money on the Rams. They have the best roster in the league. "The Rams are No. 1 by far in our power rating, and they’re the Super Bowl favorite." Indeed, Los Angeles is atop Super Bowl odds at +750, coincidentally followed by defending champion Seattle at +950. Week 17 — Lions vs. Bears (-1.5) Why not go to the NFC North well one more time? As mentioned above, the public betting masses have loved Detroit for three-plus seasons, with the Lions a spread-covering machine most of that time, save for the second half of last season. And Chicago, as also noted above, steadily gained public backing as last season went along. "It’s another scenario where this game might matter a lot for the division. That’s what we’re hoping for," Feazel said. "The Lions are a public team, and the Bears are starting to become a public team, as we’re seeing this offseason. "If this game was held today, we’d see good two-way action and a lot of Over action." The total opened at 48.5 for the Jan. 3 matchup.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[2026 NFL Win Totals: Over/Unders For All 32 Squads]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2026-nfl-win-totals-over-unders-all-32-squads</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2026-nfl-win-totals-over-unders-all-32-squads</guid>
				<category>nfl</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[The 2026 NFL schedule is officially out. Check out the opening win totals and Over/Under odds for all 32 teams.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 19:34:44 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2025/02/hutchinson.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2025/02/128/72/hutchinson.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[The entire 2026 NFL schedule is officially out, which means sportsbooks have wasted no time posting regular-season win totals for all 32 teams. While blockbuster free-agent signings and NFL Draft decisions often drive movement in the market, strength of schedule is once again expected to play a major role in shaping the betting landscape this fall. According to FOX Sports' projected schedule difficulty, the Chicago Bears, Miami Dolphins and Green Bay Packers have the toughest schedules in the league. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns, Cincinnati Bengals and New Orleans Saints have the easiest road ahead. The Denver Broncos, New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks led the league with 14 wins last year, but oddsmakers aren't buying a sequel. Which teams are projected to win the most games this year? And which teams might fall short of their expected win totals? Let’s dive into the win totals at DraftKings Sportsbook as of May 18. 2026-27 NFL Regular-Season Over/Under Win Totals Arizona Cardinals Over 4.5: +125 (bet $10 to win $22.50 total)Under 4.5: -150 (bet $10 to win $16.67 total) What to know: The Cardinals won just three games in 2025 and lost their final nine games of the season. Arizona drafted RB Jeremiyah Love as an explosive weapon who could help improve the offense, but the defense remains a major concern. Combined with the NFL’s fourth-hardest schedule, it’s no surprise their win total is set very low. Atlanta Falcons Over 6.5: -120 (bet $10 to win $18.33 total)Under 6.5: +100 (bet $10 to win $20 total) What to know: The Falcons won eight games in 2025 and closed the season on a four-game winning streak. Despite that momentum, Atlanta enters 2026 with a relatively low win total under new head coach Kevin Stefanski and with Tua Tagovailoa currently favored to start at quarterback. Baltimore Ravens Over 11.5: +115 (bet $10 to win $21.50 total)Under 11.5: -140 (bet $10 to win $17.14 total) What to know: The Ravens won only eight games in 2025, but much of that was due to Lamar Jackson missing four games while also dealing with injuries for most of the season. After parting ways with John Harbaugh after 18 seasons, Baltimore hired Jesse Minter as its new head coach and made a major splash in free agency by signing Trey Hendrickson. Buffalo Bills Over 10.5: -125 (bet $10 to win $18 total)Under 10.5: +105 (bet $10 to win $20.50 total) What to know: The Bills have gone over their win total of 10.5 in each of the last six seasons. After firing Sean McDermott this offseason, Buffalo promoted offensive coordinator Joe Brady to head coach while also trading for DJ Moore and signing Bradley Chubb. Carolina Panthers Over 7.5: +110 (bet $10 to win $21 total)Under 7.5: -130 (bet $10 to win $17.69 total) What to know: The Panthers won the NFC South last season with just eight wins. Coming off its first playoff appearance since 2017, Carolina significantly upgraded its defense with the additions of Jaelan Phillips and Devin Lloyd. Chicago Bears Over 9.5: +100 (bet $10 to win $20 total)Under 9.5: -120 (bet $10 to win $18.33 total) What to know: The Bears won 11 games and the NFC North in Ben Johnson's first season in Chicago, but they are set to face the NFL’s toughest schedule in 2026. That, combined with several key defensive departures and the unexpected retirement of center Drew Dalman, has lowered their win total entering the season. Cincinnati Bengals Over 9.5: -140 (bet $10 to win $17.14 total)Under 9.5: +115 (bet $10 to win $21.50 total) What to know: The Bengals won just six games in 2025, but that was largely because Joe Burrow missed nine games while they also fielded one of the worst defenses in the NFL. However, Cincinnati made several major additions this offseason, including Dexter Lawrence II and Boye Mafe, among other moves. Combining the roster additions with the third-easiest schedule in the league, the Bengals are expected to take a major step forward in 2026. Cleveland Browns Over 6.5: +105 (bet $10 to win $20.50 total)Under 6.5: -125 (bet $10 to win $18 total) What to know: The Browns won five games in 2025 and finished last in the AFC North. However, Cleveland made several major changes this offseason, including hiring Todd Monken and upgrading an offensive line that struggled throughout last year. The Browns are also expected to have one of the league’s most intriguing quarterback competitions, choosing between Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel and rookie Taylen Green. Dallas Cowboys Over 9.5: +110 (bet $10 to win $21 total)Under 9.5: -130 (bet $10 to win $17.69 total) What to know: The Cowboys won seven games last season, mostly because they had one of the NFL’s worst defenses. However, their offense remained elite, ranking fifth in the league with 27.7 points per game. Dallas addressed its biggest weakness this offseason by trading for Rashan Gary and drafting Caleb Downs, two additions that could dramatically improve the defense. Combined with an easier schedule, those moves are a major reason why the Cowboys are projected for a higher win total in 2026. Denver Broncos Over 9.5: -115 (bet $10 to win $18.70 total)Under 9.5: -105 (bet $10 to win $19.52 total) What to know: The Broncos were one of three teams that led the NFL with 14 wins last season. However, they also recorded 11 one-possession victories during the regular season, which tied an NFL record. The big question entering 2026 is whether Denver can replicate that same success in close games. Their win total signals they will take a step back despite acquiring Jaylen Waddle via trade. Detroit Lions Over 10.5: -110 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total)Under 10.5: -110 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total) What to know: After winning 15 games in 2024, the Lions took a major step back in 2025, finishing 9-8 and missing the playoffs. However, because Detroit finished last in the NFC North, it will face the sixth-easiest schedule in 2026, which is a major reason why the team's win total is so high. Green Bay Packers Over 10.5: +115 (bet $10 to win $21.50 total)Under 10.5: -140 (bet $10 to win $17.14 total) What to know: Despite their recent success, the Packers have only gone over this win total twice in the past five seasons, including last year when they had just nine wins and lost their final five games. Even with the third-hardest schedule in 2026, Green Bay still has high expectations from Vegas. Houston Texans Over 9.5: -125 (bet $10 to win $18 total)Under 9.5: +105 (bet $10 to win $20.50 total) What to know: Houston has won at least 10 games in each of the last three seasons, including 12 wins in 2025. After starting last season 0-3, the Texans won 12 of their final 14 games, including a nine-game winning streak to close out the regular season before losing to the Patriots in the divisional round. Indianapolis Colts Over 7.5: -130 (bet $10 to win $17.69 total)Under 7.5: +110 (bet $10 to win $21 total) What to know: The Colts’ 2025 season was the complete opposite of the Texans'. Indianapolis started 7-1 and held the No. 1 seed in the AFC after Week 8. However, it then lost eight of its final nine games, including a seven-game losing streak to end the season. That collapse included a four-game stretch without starting quarterback Daniel Jones due to injury. Jones is expected to remain the starter in 2026 after signing a two-year, $88 million contract extension. Jacksonville Jaguars Over 8.5: -125 (bet $10 to win $18 total)Under 8.5: +105 (bet $10 to win $20.50 total) What to know: After winning just four games in 2024, the Jaguars completed an incredible turnaround in 2025 with 13 wins and an AFC South title in Liam Coen’s first season as head coach. However, Jacksonville did suffer a few notable free-agent losses, including Travis Etienne Jr. and Devin Lloyd, which could help explain the team’s lower projected win total entering 2026. Kansas City Chiefs Over 10.5: +115 (bet $10 to win $21.50 total)Under 10.5: -140 (bet $10 to win $17.14 total) What to know: The Chiefs recorded their lowest win total since 2012 with just six wins, largely due to a brutal 1-9 record in one-score games. While Kansas City remained in playoff contention for most of the season, Patrick Mahomes’ ACL injury caused him to miss the final three games and effectively ended the team’s playoff hopes. With Mahomes expected to return by Week 1, Vegas expects the Chiefs to bounce back to championship-level contention in 2026. Las Vegas Raiders Over 5.5: -145 (bet $10 to win $16.90 total)Under 5.5: +120 (bet $10 to win $22 total) What to know: After finishing with the worst record in the NFL last year with just three wins, the Raiders finally have hope after drafting Fernando Mendoza. After spending $281.5 million on the very first day of free agency alone, Las Vegas should be much improved in 2026 even if it decides to go with Kirk Cousins at quarterback to start the season. Los Angeles Chargers Over 9.5: -130 (bet $10 to win $17.69 total)Under 9.5: +110 (bet $10 to win $21 total) What to know: The Chargers won 11 games in 2025 despite losing both All-Pro tackles, Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater, for most of the season. Both are expected to return in 2026, and Los Angeles also added Mike McDaniel as offensive coordinator. Even with those major boosts, the Chargers’ win total is somehow lower entering the season. Los Angeles Rams Over 10.5: -140 (bet $10 to win $17.14 total)Under 10.5: +115 (bet $10 to win $21.50 total) What to know: The Rams won 12 games last season, and if not for a few bad breaks and costly mistakes in their losses to Seattle, it could have been Los Angeles hoisting the Lombardi Trophy. The Rams' biggest weakness, the secondary, was addressed this offseason with the addition of Trent McDuffie via trade, so they should be improved in 2026. They are currently the current Super Bowl favorite at +800. Miami Dolphins Over 4.5: -110 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total)Under 4.5: -110 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total) What to know: The Dolphins are tied with the Cardinals for the lowest projected win total entering 2026. Miami will look completely different this season following the departures of Mike McDaniel and Tua Tagovailoa, as they were major sellers this offseason, trading away both Jaylen Waddle and Minkah Fitzpatrick while also releasing Tyreek Hill and Bradley Chubb. Jeff Hafley and Malik Willis are now set to lead a new era in Miami. Minnesota Vikings Over 8.5: -110 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total)Under 8.5: -110 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total) What to know: The Vikings won nine games last season after letting Sam Darnold walk in free agency, but one positive was how they finished, winning their final five games. Minnesota also signed Kyler Murray to a veteran minimum contract to compete with J.J. McCarthy for the starting quarterback job in 2026. New England Patriots Over 9.5: -140 (bet $10 to win $17.14 total)Under 9.5: +115 (bet $10 to win $21.50 total) What to know: The Patriots are coming off a 14-win season that ended with a Super Bowl appearance, but they also faced one of the easiest schedules in the NFL in 2025. New England now has the sixth-toughest schedule entering 2026, which is a major reason why Vegas is projecting a drop in wins. New Orleans Saints Over 7.5: -120 (bet $10 to win $18.33 total)Under 7.5: +100 (bet $10 to win $20 total) What to know: The Saints won only six games last season, but they went 5-4 in games started by Tyler Shough and just 1-7 in all other contests. With Shough expected to enter 2026 as the full-time starter, New Orleans’ win total has increased, especially with the team also facing the second-easiest schedule in the NFL. New York Giants Over 7.5: -110 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total)Under 7.5: -110 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total) What to know: After winning a combined 13 games over the last three seasons, the Giants are officially in a new era in New York under John Harbaugh. The Giants improved this offseason with an impressive draft class that included Arvell Reese and Francis Mauigoa, who are set to join a young core featuring Jaxson Dart, Cam Skattebo and Malik Nabers. The future looks bright for New York. New York Jets Over 5.5: -115 (bet $10 to win $18.70 total)Under 5.5: -105 (bet $10 to win $19.52 total) What to know: The first year of the Aaron Glenn era in New York did not go as planned, as the Jets won just three games. However, after signing Geno Smith, adding several key defensive free agents and bringing in a solid draft class featuring offensive weapons Kenyon Sadiq and Omar Cooper Jr., Vegas expects at least some improvement in 2026. Philadelphia Eagles Over 10.5: +115 (bet $10 to win $21.50 total)Under 10.5: -140 (bet $10 to win $17.14 total) What to know: The Eagles have gone over this win total in each of the last four seasons. However, after starting 8-2 last year, Philadelphia lost five of its final eight games, including a wild-card playoff loss to the 49ers. The Eagles had a strong offseason, adding Riq Woolen and Dontayvion Wicks while also drafting Makai Lemon and Eli Stowers. Their offense, under new OC Sean Mannion, is expected to play a major role in determining their success in 2026. Pittsburgh Steelers Over 8.5: +100 (bet $10 to win $20 total)Under 8.5: -120 (bet $10 to win $18.33 total) What to know: In Mike Tomlin’s 20 seasons with the Steelers, Pittsburgh never had a losing season, and the team had won more than 8.5 games in every year since 2019. However, Tomlin is now gone, and Mike McCarthy has taken over as head coach. McCarthy and Aaron Rodgers will reunite from their days in Green Bay alongside several new offensive weapons. San Francisco 49ers Over 10.5: +115 (bet $10 to win $21.50 total)Under 10.5: -140 (bet $10 to win $17.14 total) What to know: The 49ers remarkably won 12 games in 2025 despite dealing with a plethora of injuries to several key players. Brock Purdy missed eight games, while Fred Warner and Nick Bosa both suffered season-ending injuries. George Kittle and Talanoa Hufanga also missed a significant portion of the season. Even after overcoming those injuries and exceeding expectations, San Francisco’s projected win total has dropped entering 2026. Seattle Seahawks Over 10.5: -130 (bet $10 to win $17.69 total)Under 10.5: +110 (bet $10 to win $21 total) What to know: The Super Bowl champions won 14 regular-season games last season in a historic year. However, losing several key contributors, including Boye Mafe, Kenneth Walker III, Coby Bryant and Riq Woolen, has significantly dropped Seattle's 2026 win total. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Over 8.5: +100 (bet $10 to win $20 total)Under 8.5: -120 (bet $10 to win $18.33 total) What to know: After starting last season 6-2, Tampa Bay lost seven of its final nine games and missed the playoffs. Vegas is expecting a similar type of season from the Buccaneers in 2026. Tennessee Titans Over 6.5: -110 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total)Under 6.5: -110 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total) What to know: In Cam Ward’s first NFL season, the Titans won just three games. However, Tennessee made several major changes this offseason, including hiring Robert Saleh as head coach and Brian Daboll as offensive coordinator. The Titans also signed John Franklin-Myers to a big contract and drafted wide receiver Carnell Tate with the No. 4 overall pick. With those additions, Tennessee appears poised to improve in 2026. Washington Commanders Over 7.5: -120 (bet $10 to win $18.33 total)Under 7.5: +100 (bet $10 to win $20 total) What to know: After a dream season in 2024 in which the Commanders won 12 games and reached the NFC Championship Game, Washington took a major step back in 2025, winning just five games. However, Jayden Daniels missed seven games, and the Commanders went just 2-5 without him.]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
					<item>
				<title>
					<![CDATA[Geoff Schwartz Questions Mike McCarthy’s Support for Aaron Rodgers in Pittsburgh]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/the-herd-with-colin-cowherd/geoff-schwartz-questions-mike-mccarthys-support-aaron-rodgers-return-pittsburgh</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/the-herd-with-colin-cowherd/geoff-schwartz-questions-mike-mccarthys-support-aaron-rodgers-return-pittsburgh</guid>
				<category>the-herd-with-colin-cowherd</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[FOX Sports analyst Geoff Schwartz joined The Herd with Colin Cowherd to discuss Aaron Rodgers’ reunion with Mike McCarthy.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 19:13:26 -0400</pubDate>
								<media:content url="https://statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/herd-5-18-schwartz.jpg" expression="full" type="image/jpg" width="1167" height="656">
										<media:thumbnail url="https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2026/05/128/72/herd-5-18-schwartz.jpg" width="128" height="72"/>
														</media:content>
												<content:encoded>
				    <![CDATA[The Pittsburgh Steelers are running it back with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, officially re-signing the 21-year veteran on Monday morning for a second season in Pittsburgh. The move also rekindles a familiar partnership with coach Mike McCarthy, marking their first reunion since 2018. On FOX Sports' "The Herd" with Colin Cowherd, FOX Sports analyst Geoff Schwartz joined the show to discuss Rodgers’ reunion with McCarthy. Cowherd questioned McCarthy’s support for the move, suggesting he would prefer to roll with the team’s young quarterbacks. "I think [Mike] McCarthy is publicly taking a bullet because he would rather go with the kids," Cowherd said. But he got the job and part of the deal is don’t badmouth us when we bring Aaron [Rodgers] back." Schwartz pointed to the prior tension between Rodgers and McCarthy in Green Bay, where their working relationship ended with McCarthy’s firing in 2018 amid reported friction. He questioned how the reunion in Pittsburgh would function given that history. "Remember, Aaron Rodgers and McCarthy did not end well, like he got him fired," Schwartz said. "Now, they’re supposed to be best friends again at work? They’re professionals, but again, I don’t know if you’re a Steelers fan, how you’re looking forward to the season." Not only have the Steelers struggled to find a long-term answer at quarterback, but playoff success has also become a concern. The team has largely settled into the 8–9-win range in recent seasons, reflecting mediocrity. Pittsburgh’s last postseason win came in 2017, when it defeated the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Divisional Round. "You know exactly how this is going to go," Schwartz said. "They haven’t won a playoff game in nine years, but you knew how the last nine were going to go anyway, but this doesn’t feel like any hope." Schwartz questioned whether Pittsburgh’s commitment to staying competitive in the short term is preventing a needed reset with an aging roster. "I think that if you asked McCarthy, ‘hey, let's sort of get rid of the old guys, let’s go young this year and next year we’ll hit it hard,’ I think he would rather take that," Schwartz said. "But the pride, the organization, at some point you should have to say for a year or two that we’re going to be bad." The Steelers have never fully hit the reset button or entered a traditional rebuild, but Schwartz has pointed to examples where that approach has worked elsewhere. "There’s probably examples of it working," Schwartz said. "The Patriots got Drake Maye, like it works if you do it right. It does work if you do it right and Pittsburgh refuses to do it right."]]>
			    </content:encoded>
							</item>
			</channel>
</rss>
