Cincinnati Bengals
As the Cincinnati Bengals gear up for training camp, they have ensured the return of their star running back, Joe Mixon. The Bengals and Mixon have agreed to rework the $9.4 million non-guaranteed base salary that he was originally scheduled to make this season. This move is a testament to the Bengals’ commitment to Mixon, who has been a key player in their offensive lineup. Mixon, who was drafted by the Bengals in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft, has been a consistent performer for the team, amassing over 4,000 rushing yards and 25 touchdowns in his career so far.
Detroit Lions
Detroit Lions General Manager Brad Holmes recently shared his thoughts on the team’s running back situation. He praised D’Andre Swift for his dynamic play and Jamaal Williams for his leadership and performance last season. However, Holmes also highlighted the unique abilities of David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs. Montgomery, according to Holmes, brings more to the table in the passing game, while Gibbs’ skills as a receiver are exceptional. Holmes described Gibbs as a “homerun hitter” as a running back, but emphasized that his route running skills are akin to those of a receiver. This diverse set of skills among the Lions’ running backs could provide the team with a versatile and potent offense in the upcoming season.
Kansas City Chiefs
Kansas City Chiefs’ quarterback Patrick Mahomes expressed his excitement about working with wide receiver Kadarius Toney. Mahomes praised Toney’s talent and work ethic, comparing him to Chiefs’ tight end Travis Kelce. Mahomes believes that Toney has the potential to be one of the best receivers in the league, provided he can stay healthy and maintain his presence on the field. Toney, a first-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, had a promising rookie season with the New York Giants, showcasing his potential as a dynamic playmaker.
Las Vegas Raiders
Las Vegas Raiders’ running back Josh Jacobs is reportedly feeling great this offseason, with no injuries and feeling “explosive”. However, a source close to Jacobs has indicated that if a deal is not reached between the Raiders and Jacobs by Monday at 1PM, Jacobs will not be attending training camp. This could potentially be a significant setback for the Raiders, as Jacobs has been a key contributor to their offense since being drafted in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft.
San Francisco 49ers
Last season, the San Francisco 49ers’ offense was executed with remarkable efficiency by quarterbacks Brock Purdy and Jimmy Garoppolo. This was not a detriment to the team, as the offense was in top form following the acquisition of Christian McCaffrey. McCaffrey’s arrival was a major catalyst for the 49ers, and Purdy’s Points Per Game (PPG) saw a significant boost as a result of the 49ers’ takeaways.
Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders have been generating some buzz recently. According to ESPN’s Matthew Berry, a trusted scout believes that once quarterback Sam Howell gets on the field, he won’t be coming off. This speaks volumes about Howell’s potential impact on the team. In addition, wide receiver Terry McLaurin revealed that 13 or 14 Commanders players, including Howell, Jacoby Brissett, Jahan Dotson, Dyami Brown, Marcus Kemp, Brian Robinson Jr., Jaret Patterson, and John Bates, worked out together in Ft. Lauderdale for a few days. This shows a strong sense of camaraderie and commitment among the players as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Stock Check / Quick Notes
Stock Up:
- Joe Mixon (Cincinnati Bengals): The reworking of his contract shows the team’s commitment to him, which is a positive sign for his future with the Bengals.
- David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs (Detroit Lions): The praise from the General Manager suggests that these players are highly valued and will likely play significant roles in the upcoming season.
- Kadarius Toney (Kansas City Chiefs): Patrick Mahomes’ high praise for Toney suggests that he could have a breakout season if he stays healthy.
- Brock Purdy and Christian McCaffrey (San Francisco 49ers): The efficient offense run by Purdy and Garoppolo, boosted by McCaffrey’s arrival, indicates that their stock is on the rise.
- Sam Howell and Terry McLaurin (Washington Commanders): The positive buzz around Howell and the team-building efforts led by McLaurin suggest that their stock is going up.
Stock Down:
- Josh Jacobs (Las Vegas Raiders): The potential holdout due to contract negotiations could negatively impact his stock, especially if he misses training camp.