NFL News Summary for Thursday, July 20th, 2023

Cleveland Browns

“The X-Factor: (Elijah) Moore. He’s arguably the most exciting new player to watch in training camp, and it’s because it’ll be interesting to see not only where his chemistry is with Watson but also all the different ways the Browns use him in the offense. If minicamp is any indication, he’ll be used as an outside, slot and backfield player, giving the Browns tremendous flexibility to position wherever they believe he’ll have the best shot of creating an explosive play.” 

Moore has flashed in the past and is certainly a dynamic playmaker. It’ll be interesting to see not only where his chemistry is with Watson but also all the different ways the Browns use him in the offense. 

Green Bay Packers

There’s a lot of speculation around Luke Musgrave and his potential role in the upcoming season. The question on everyone’s mind is: Will he earn the TE1 role? 

“Yes, I think Musgrave will be TE1 by Week 1. The Packers think he can be the true No. 1 pass-catching tight end that Robert Tonyan was at times but not consistently enough, someone like Jermichael Finley in his prime perhaps. The best-case scenario for the Packers is Musgrave developing into almost a wide receiver, someone who can line up anywhere and make plays all over the field like Travis Kelce, Darren Waller and the other most athletic tight ends in the NFL. He’ll have to prove he can block adequately, though, which the Packers need from the position after Marcedes Lewis’ departure.” 

Kansas City Chiefs

Isiah Pacheco speaking about Deneric Prince, he emphasized his commitment, saying, “He’s going to keep working. There’s more to come, more to learn. It’s day by day, it takes time, but he’s working hard. He’s a good worker — and that’s what we do. We work hard.” 

On the recovery front, Pacheco, despite missing the 7-on-7 sessions, has been diligently working with athletic trainers. The optimism is palpable, both from him and the staff members. He’s confident about being “absolutely” game-ready in 49 days when the Chiefs lock horns with the Detroit Lions.

The Chiefs wrapped up their second practice for the rookies and quarterbacks. Rashee Rice emerged as the offensive star, making a mark with several remarkable catches, thanks to his size advantage. Rice shook off a rough first practice, making a significant impact during the 7 on 7 passing drills with a handful of catches and a couple of touchdowns.

New York Giants

Saquon Barkley update – His recent statement about the possibility of sitting out games has raised eyebrows. He said, “Now I’m at a point where it’s like, ‘Jesus, I might have to take it to this level.'” With Barkley’s average of 5.0 yards per carry in his career, his potential absence could be a significant blow to the Giants.

New York Jets

Allen Lazard was asked about how certain he was Aaron Rodgers would sign with the Jets after he signed with NY.  “There was an 8-hour period where I was like, what the **** bro?” 

Further emphasizing the influence of Rodgers, Lazard mentioned the Jets potentially adopting the Packers’ offense, referring to it as the “Aaron Rodgers offense.”

Robert Saleh mentioned both CJ Uzomah and Randall Cobb could be cleared off the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list soon, indicating their imminent return to the field. Saleh also didn’t dismiss the possibility of Dalvin Cook joining the Jets, though he hinted at some contractual complexities. 

The Jets offense got off to a subpar start yesterday. Aaron Rodgers first practice series as a Jet: 1/2 passing, a false start and a TFL on a run. Rodgers ended the day 6/10 passing.

Zach Wilson wasn’t any better. He got sacked a couple times, but he did throw a sidearm touchdown pass to Mecole Hardman during the red zone 11 on 11.

Lazard drew parallels between Garrett Wilson and Davante Adams, suggesting that Wilson has the potential to reach Adams’ level of excellence this year.  

Robert Saleh on Garrett Wilson: “He’s juicy route runner. Explosive. He’s got elite competitive edge to him. You just want him to get better and get continuity with Aaron as soon as possible.” 

Robert Saleh said Breece Hall hit 23 mph on the GPS today. 

Washington Commanders

Big news for the Washington Commanders as NFL owners have unanimously approved the $6.05 billion sale of the team from Dan Snyder to a group led by Josh Harris. This sale marks a new chapter in their legacy and a great day for their fans.

Stock Up:

1. Elijah Moore (Cleveland Browns): Touted as the “X-Factor,” Moore is expected to bring versatility and dynamism to the Browns’ offense. But we’ve been fooled before…
2. Luke Musgrave (Green Bay Packers): Expected to secure the TE1 role, Rookie TEs don’t hit often, but this class might be built different.
3. Pacheco (Kansas City Chiefs): With positive feedback from training sessions and his evident dedication, Pacheco’s readiness for the upcoming games is a good sign for the Chiefs.
4. Garrett Wilson (New York Jets): Drawing comparisons to Davante Adams
5. Washington Commanders: The unanimous approval of the team’s sale 

Stock Down:

1. Saquon Barkley (New York Giants): No way he actually sits out games, right? Right?! 
2. Aaron Rodgers (New York Jets): Sloppy first practice, but he’ll be fine
3. Jordan Addison (Minnesota Vikings): charged with reckless driving. Was doing 140 MPH in his lambo. 

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