Thursday night's preseason game between the Houston Texans and Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium was canceled by the NFL on Wednesday to allow Texans players to return home to be reunited with their families after the catastrophic flooding in Houston.
The decision comes days after the game was moved from Houston's NRG Stadium to the Cowboys' stadium Arlington because of the massive flooding in the wake of Hurricane Harvey.
The cancellation gives Texans players the opportunity to return to Houston sometime Wednesday.
"The Houston Texans have made the decision to travel back to Houston after local authorities have now found a safe route for the team to drive home today," the Texans said in a statement. "The fourth preseason game scheduled for Thursday night in Dallas will be canceled. At this time, the priority of our organization is getting our players, coaches and staff back home to be reunited with their families, many of whom have been evacuated from their homes and are currently sheltered. The team feels it is imperative to get back home to help the Houston community recover from the devastation of Hurricane Harvey."
Texans general manager Rick Smith later said the Week 1 game on Sept. 10 against the Jacksonville Jaguars will be played as scheduled at NRG Stadium.
"Nothing has to happen. The game is at NRG. It's scheduled to be played in NRG, so it will be played in NRG," Smith said.
Smith said there were shouts of joy when he told the players the game was canceled and they were heading home, according to ESPN.
"I've been increasingly impressed with them as we've dealt with all the things we've had to deal with over the last couple of days," Smith said. "And the way they have been resilient, and the way they have maintained their focus during practice and being pros. But it was a shout of joy when we announced we were going home. I think everyone wants to get there."
Defensive end J.J. Watt described it as "subdued joy, because we're obviously extremely sensitive to the situation. But I think guys just want to see their wives, guys just want to see their kids, guys want to see their families. So it's going to be a very nice thing just to get back and be able to embrace their families and everybody can see that each other is safe. And then we can start that rebuilding process."
Smith said canceling the last preseason game was the "right thing to do" so the players and coaches can return to their families in Houston.
"We didn't have the option until today to get the team home safely," Smith told reporters outside the team's hotel, via the Houston Chronicle. "We have so many players distracted by what's been happening in Houston that it became increasingly difficult to ask them to play the game."
Hurricane Harvey hit Texas hard with some areas of Houston getting a record-setting 51 inches of rain. At least 10,000 people have been rescued from their homes with the death toll climbing to at least 30.
An estimated 30,000 to 40,000 homes have been destroyed in the Houston area as Hurricane Harvey, now a tropical storm, continues to batter the Gulf Coast with torrential rains and flooding.
The Texans have been in the Dallas area since early Sunday morning after flying directly from their preseason game in New Orleans on Saturday night. The team has been practicing this week at the Cowboys' facility in Frisco, Texas.
Tickets for the relocated game went on sale Tuesday night and more than 40,000 were sold with the proceeds going to the hurricane relief fund. The Dallas Morning News reported that fans who bought tickets can receive a refund or choose to have the money used as a donation to relief efforts.
"I think it's the right decision," Watt told reporters of the decision to cancel the game. "Everybody here is obviously most concerned about their families, their friends, the City of Houston back home. So I think it's extremely important that we get home as quickly as we possibly can. I know we're all very excited to get there and see our people, but also start helping."
Watt launched an online fundraising page Sunday by donating $100,000 out of his own pocket with an initial goal of raising $200,000 to raise money for flood relief in Houston. The online fundraiser passed $6 million on Wednesday afternoon.
"I've upped the goal to $10 million because, as you know, everything's bigger in Texas," Watt said. "The goal is to bring in the trucks, load them up and start delivering supplies with some of my teammates, hopefully, Sunday. It's not just the Houston area. We're going to Rockport and Victoria and others areas, too."
The Texans and team owner Bob McNair donated $1 million earlier this week to the United Way of Greater Houston's flood relief fund.
"Robert, Janice, Cal and Hannah McNair will make a donation equal to the money that would have been generated from ticket sales from Thursday's preseason game in Arlington to recovery and relief efforts," the Texans said in their statement Wednesday. "Fans that have purchased tickets to Thursday's game will have the option to donate the money to relief efforts or request a refund through Ticketmaster. Further details regarding refunds will be announced later.
"The Houston Texans sincerely appreciate the support shown by the Dallas Cowboys and our NFL family during this difficult time."
Wednesday, August 30, 2017
NFL Draft: Rang's 2018 Big Board
And it starts at the top, with several prospects to watch at football's most important position.
Southern California's Sam Darnold and cross-town rival Josh Rosen from UCLA plus Wyoming's bazooka-armed Josh Allen all rate in my top five prospects overall.
This is but the intro to the 2018 draft class.
The rise of last year's top quarterback, Mitchell Trubisky, from second-stringer at the University of North Carolina to No. 2 overall selection by the Chicago Bears proves yet again how much can change in a year of college football.
Based on film review over the summer, however, these are the top 32 NFL prospects (potentially eligible for the 2018 draft) in college football.
1. Sam Darnold, QB, Southern Cal, 6-3, 225, 4.74, Redshirt Sophomore
Darnold wowed us all last year, showing all of the physical traits -- including a strong, accurate arm, mobility and the stout frame necessary to hold up to punishment -- that scouts are looking for in a quarterback. It was the poise and polish of a quarterback much more mature than his years, however, which really helped Darnold separate from his peers last season. With USC losing many of its offensive line and receiving corps last year to graduation and the NFL, Darnold will have to be even better this season to match the start-to-finish perch atop the Big Board that soon-to-be-star for the Cleveland Browns Myles Garrett enjoyed last year.
2. Derwin James, SS, Florida State, 6-2, 211, 4.52, rSoph
A moveable chess piece capable of playing defensive back, linebacker or even edge rusher, James stood out as a true freshman on a defense loaded with NFL stars in 2015, recording 91 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks to go along with five pass breakups, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. James has to prove his health after missing all but the first two games following surgery to repair a torn meniscus. When healthy, he's a proven difference-maker with the versatility and explosiveness scouts crave.
3. Saquon Barkley, RB, Penn State, 5-11, 223, 4.49, Jr
Given the number of quality running backs drafted into the NFL in 2017, some were surprised to see the most gifted runner in the country -- Barkley - return to Penn State. Bigger than Christian McCaffrey and Dalvin Cook, more dynamic in the open field than Leonard Fournette and without the off-field concerns which dogged Joe Mixon, Barkley is a rare bell-cow running back worthy of top five consideration.
4. Josh Rosen, QB, UCLA, 6-3, 220, 4.97, Junior
Past injuries and an outspoken personality may scare off some but no one in this class spins the ball better than Rosen, who reminds of a young Jay Cutler. Recall Rosen had scouts most excited at this time a year ago, before Rosen's year was cut short due to an injury to his throwing (right) shoulder which required season-ending surgery.
5. Josh Allen, QB, Wyoming, 6-4, 233, 4.76, Redshirt Junior
Based on only raw traits, Allen is a level above his peers. He is bigger, has a stronger arm and is more athletic and aggressive with the ball in his hands as any passer in the nation not named Lamar Jackson. For all of his exciting tools, Allen comes with obvious level of competition questions and is also the more sporadic passer of the top quarterbacks, struggling especially with passes that require putting some touch on the ball.
6. Arden Key, DE, LSU, 6-5, 238, 4.74, Jr
Key is not yet as polished as some of the other top edge rushers in this class but the combination of length and speed off the corner intrigues, not to mention he is stronger at the point of attack than he appears. A big-play specialist still growing into his frame, with some refined technique Key could be even more effective in the pass-happy NFL than in the SEC; a scary thought considering he recorded 14.5 tackles for loss, including 12 sacks a year ago.
7. Connor Williams, OT, Texas, 6-5, 320, 5.31, Jr
The Longhorns have not produced a single first-round pick on offense since Vince Young was selected No. 3 overall by Tennessee back in 2006. Williams is a strong bet to end that dubious streak. A bit of a throwback, Williams pairs power and aggression as a run blocker that scouts covet with the athleticism, balance and girth to stone pass rushers.
8. Minkah Fitzpatrick, FS/CB, Alabama, 6-0, 201, 4.52, Jr
Looking for the next top 10 NFL draft pick for Alabama? Focus on Fitzpatrick. While bouncing back and forth between starting at cornerback and safety over the past two seasons for the Tide, he already set the school record with four touchdowns scored off of interceptions. Fitzpatrick is athletic enough to handle corner duties in the NFL but his build, instincts and physical, reliable tackling project even better to safety.
9. Vita Vea, DT, Washington, 6-4, 344, 5.34, rJr
In terms of raw ability, Vea competes with only Houston true sophomore Ed Oliver as the most exciting defensive line prospect in the country. As his size suggests, Vea can dominate as a run-stuffer. He is also incredibly athletic for a man his size, surprising opponents with his initial burst and speed in pursuit.
10. Christian Kirk, WR, Texas A&M, 5-11, 200, 4.39, Jr
The NFL's thirst for playmakers has never been more obvious and Kirk is this year's most dynamic pass-catcher. Kirk possesses the squatty frame of a running back, using terrific lateral agility, balance and pure speed to be a threat to score any time he touches the ball as a receiver or returner. Kirk led the country with three punt returns for touchdowns last year, giving him five in just two seasons.
11. Derrius Guice, RB, LSU, 5-11, 212, 4.52, Jr
Guice is not the freakish combination of size and speed that his predecessor Leonard Fournette is but he may prove an even more effective all-around back, a theory supported by the fact that he led the SEC with 1,387 rushing yards (averaging 7.6 yards per carry) and 15 touchdowns despite splitting carries. Guice has a squatty, powerful frame as well as excellent balance and a determined running style, which help him consistently bounce off would-be tacklers.
12. Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson, 6-3, 310, 5.04, Jr
From his off-beat personality to his versatility along the defensive line, Wilkins is one of the more intriguing prospects in this class. He earned All-American honors at defensive tackle as a true freshman, recording an eye-popping 84 tackles before moving out to defensive end last season and boosting his big plays, registering 13 tackles for loss (among 56 total stops) and setting a new school record among defensive linemen with 10 passes broken up. Wilkins projects best inside as a penetrating three-technique at the next level.
13. Calvin Ridley, WR, Alabama, 6-1, 190, 4.50, Jr
Expectations were huge for Ridley last season after breaking Julio Jones' school record for receptions and receiving yards as a true freshman (89 for 1,045). A stacked roster and the development of young Alabama quarterback Jalen Hurts resulted in less production (72 for 769 yards) for Ridley last season but his polished routes, deceptive speed and strong hands remain just as impressive on tape. A late enrollee at Alabama, Ridley is a bit older than most of the top prospects, turning 23 in December.
14. Orlando Brown, OT, Oklahoma, 6-7, 358, 5.47, rJr
The son of the late Orlando "Zeus" Brown (a 13-year veteran who played with the Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens), the Sooners' behemoth blocker's sheer size and strength make referring to him as "junior" almost laughable. While lacking the nimble feet to likely remain at left tackle in the NFL (where he's started the past two years for the Sooners), Brown's rare arm length, powerful base and surprising balance make him a quality pass protector and not just the bulldozer in the running game that his bulk suggests.
15. DaRon Payne, DT, Alabama, 6-2, 308, 5.38, Jr
Payne may lack the imposing size and burst of some of the other top defensive linemen but his pure strength (including a 545 pound bench press) and motor stand out, even amongst the NFL junior varsity team that is the Alabama Crimson Tide. As his statistics last season (36 tackles, including 3.5 for loss and 1.5 sacks) suggest, however, Payne's value lies with his ability to be a two-gap run stuffer not a consistent pass rush threat.
16. Tarvarus McFadden, CB, Florida State, 6-1, 198, 4.49, Jr
After losing Jalen Ramsey early to the NFL and Derwin James (my top-rated defender in 2017) to injury, any question about the depth and talent in the Seminoles' secondary was emphatically answered by McFadden last year, who simply tied for the national lead with eight interceptions in his first starting season. McFadden offers an exciting upside with the quick feet, instincts and soft hands scouts covet, though his focus as a tackler and in coverage can wane.
17. Harold Landry, OLB, Boston College, 6-2, 250, 4.76, Sr
Landry led the country with 16.5 sacks a season ago, surprising many with his decision to return for his senior campaign. Landry lacks elite length but he possesses terrific burst and bend off the edge, showing the balance, core strength and athleticism to handle either stand-up or hand-down rush duties in the NFL.
18. Billy Price, OG, Ohio State, 6-3, 312, 5.19, rSr
A three-year starter and reigning All-American guard, Price is about as safe as it gets in preseason NFL draft prognostication. He could have made the NFL jump a year ago and been one of the first interior offensive linemen selected but should only improve his stock by returning and proving his versatility, making the switch to center this season. Built like a cinder block (and just as tough), Price's initial quickness and power play a key role in the Buckeyes' offensive attack.
19. Bradley Chubb, DE, North Carolina State, 6-3, 275, 4.84, Sr
Ranked 11 spots higher than his cousin, Nick (the star running back at Georgia), Chubb deserves family bragging rights after a breakout 2016 campaign in which he recorded career-highs in tackles (58), tackles for loss (22) and sacks (10.5). Named a captain as a true junior after the former linebacker gained 25 pounds of muscle in the off-season, Chubb has the work ethic to go along with his strength and tenacity.
20. Lamar Jackson, QB, Louisville, 6-2, 200, 4.42, Jr
Jackson quite literally ran away from the competition for the Heisman Trophy a season ago, showing off the raw speed and playmaking ability that has earned him plenty of comparisons to 2001 No. 1 overall selection Michael Vick. Like Vick at Virginia Tech, Jackson -- the youngest Heisman Trophy winner in history -- remains a work in progress as a passer, needing to show greater recognition and precision in the pocket for most NFL offenses.
21. Sam Hubbard, DE, Ohio State, 6-4, 265, 4.76, rJr
Powerful, fundamentally sound and tenacious against the run and pass, alike, Hubbard is one of the better all-around defensive ends in the country and comes with relatively high floor. That said, Hubbard does not possess the quick-twitch explosiveness to consistently threaten the edge, recording just 3.5 sacks a season ago.
22. Maurice Hurst, DT, Michigan, 6-2, 282, 4.93, rSr
With today's focus on the quick passing game in the NFL, "undersized" defensive tackles who can collapse the pocket from the interior are much more valuable than in previous years. Hurst, the son of the former New England Patriots cornerback of the same name, saw his tackles for loss jump from 6.5 in 2015 to 11.5 last season. Another big jump could be in the cards this season.
23. DaShawn Hand, DE, Alabama, 6-3, 282, 4.87, Senior
With just six combined sacks over his first three seasons at Alabama, Hand has been unable to live up to the lofty expectations of recruiting experts, many of whom tabbed him as the No. 1 prep edge rusher in 2013. Hand looks the part of an NFL player with a powerful, well-proportioned physique, long arms and impressive timed speed for his size. Unfortunately, while fast in pursuit downfield or on the track, Hand shows below average initial quickness off the ball, thus far limiting his effectiveness as a rusher.
24. Mike McGlinchey, OT, Notre Dame, 6-7, 312, 5.27, rSr
With a full season of starts at both left tackle (2016) and right tackle (2015) already under his belt in Notre Dame's pro-style attack, McGlinchey enters his final season of college football as one of the more established blockers in the country. He is not in the same class of athlete as his former teammate and 2016 first round pick, Ronnie Stanley (Baltimore Ravens), but NFL offensive line coaches will appreciate his experience, versatility and technique.
25. Courtland Sutton, WR, Southern Methodist, 6-3, 218, 4.58, rJr
The Mustangs have not churned out a top 50 NFL selection since 1986 but clubs on the lookout for a prototype split end will certainly be intrigued by Sutton, a physically imposing receiver with the height, strength and aggression to beat NFL defensive backs for contested passes. Sutton has averaged nearly 17 yards per reception over the past two seasons with 19 combined touchdowns grabs over that time.
26. Mitch Hyatt, OT, Clemson, 6-5, 295, 5.08, Jr
Skill position superstars earned most of the hype on the Clemson offense a year ago but Hyatt played a key cog in the Tigers' national championship run. Hyatt is well suited to Clemson's spread offense, showing light feet and good balance for a nearly 300 pound offensive lineman. To boost his NFL stock, he'll need to continue to get stronger at the point of attack.
27. Ronnie Harrison, SS, Alabama, 6-2, 214, 4.57, Jr
A major question mark heading into his first season as a starting safety, Harrison emerged as a legitimate star by year's end, finishing second only to Butkus Award winning linebacker Reuben Foster for the team lead in tackles (86) and proving to be a big play magnet. When under control, Harrison can also be a weapon as a hitter, specializing in cleaning up the play with a stiff shoulder to stop a ball-carrier in his tracks, though risky pursuit angles and grabby hands in coverage must be improved in 2017.
28. Malik Jefferson, OLB, Texas, 6-2, 240, 4.66, Jr
A Texas native, Jefferson signed with the Longhorns amid great fanfare and seemed to justify it in his first season, earning Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year honors with 61 tackles, seven tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks at outside linebacker. Jefferson posted slightly better numbers last year (62-8.5-5.5) after being moved inside but looked out of position, rarely playing with the fast-flowing reckless abandon that characterized his freshman season. Placed back outside by new Texas head coach Tom Herman in a more aggressive scheme, Jefferson could be on the verge of a big comeback season.
29. Nick Chubb, RB, Georgia, 5-10, 228, 4.54, Sr
Chubb surprised many with the decision to return to Georgia for the 2017 season after proving the health of his surgically-repaired knee with 1,130 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. As his squatty frame suggests, Chubb is powerful. He also shows excellent vision, balance and lateral cuts to elude defenders. With 562 career touches already, however, there will be questions as to how much punishment his body has absorbed at the college level.
30. Chukwuma Okorafor, OT, Western Michigan, 6-5, 330, 5.39, Sr
A year ago it was Broncos' right tackle Taylor Moton (selected No. 64 overall by Carolina) who captured scouts attention at the Senior Bowl. Okorafor, bigger and more athletic than his former teammate, has the potential to go even higher with a big final season.
31. Denzel Ward, CB, Ohio State, 5-10, 191, 4.43, Jr
Ward served as the nickel corner alongside 2017 first round picks Marshon Lattimore and Gareon Conley last season, tying with Lattimore for the team lead with nine passes broken up. Ward lacks the starting experience and length scouts would prefer but he is a superb athlete who plays bigger than his size.
32. Lowell Lotulelei, DT, Utah, 6-1, 320, 5.22, Sr
Like his older brother, Star, with the Carolina Panthers, Lotulelei's vending machine-like frame and awesome power make him tough to move off the ball, helping him to project as a run-stuffing interior defensive tackle. While effective in this role, Lotulelei does not offer much in terms of a pass rush, recording just 8.5 combined sacks over the first 38 games of his career.
Just Missed The Cut:
Jaire Alexander, CB, Louisville, 5-11, 192, 4.45, Jr
Jerome Baker, OLB, Ohio State, 6-1, 225, 4.62, Jr
Cameron Smith, ILB, Southern California, 6-1, 245, 4.76, Jr
James Washington, WR, Oklahoma State, 6-0, 205, 4.50, Sr
Trey Adams, OT, Washington, 6-7, 320, 5.30, Jr
--Rob Rang is a senior analyst for NFLDraftScout.com, owned and distributed by The Sports Xchange.
Saturday, August 26, 2017
Julian Edelman injured in Patriots’ 30-28 win over Lions
By LARRY LAGE
Associated Press
ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) — The New England Patriots may have a new challenge to overcome when they begin defending their Super Bowl title in less than two weeks.
Julian Edelman, who led the team in receptions and yards receiving last year, limped off the field with an injured right knee early in New England’s 30-28 victory over the Detroit Lions on Friday night.
The preseason victory may have been costly.
Edelman was injured as he was tackled by safety Tavon Wilson, a former teammate, after having three receptions for 52 yards in a four-play stretch. He was evaluated in a blue tent behind his team’s bench briefly before being taken to the locker room on a cart and getting ruled out for the game.
Edelman was hurt on the opening possession that ended with Tom Brady throwing his first of two touchdown passes to Chris Hogan in a 30-28 victory over the Detroit Lions on Friday night.
“We’ve got great chemistry together, and he’s an incredible player,” Brady said. “But someone will have to step up.”
Brady was 12 of 15 for 174 yards with two TDs and an interception. He helped New England take a 24-0 lead late in the first quarter and the 40-year-old, five-time Super Bowl champion was in midseason form.
“He’s as good as they come,” Detroit coach Jim Caldwell said. “He gets the ball out quickly. He makes good decision. He’s an unusual guy. There hasn’t been anybody who has stopped him since he has been in this league.”
FALLING SHORT:
After Detroit receiver Golden Tate lost a fumble on his team’s first snap and the Lions were called for five penalties in the first quarter, they rallied to make the score close.
Matthew Stafford threw a 23-yard TD pass to Marvin Jones late in the first half and an 18-yard pass to Dwayne Washington for another score early in the third against New England’s backups. He finished 15 of 22 for 190 yards, two TDs and an interception that he threw into traffic over the middle.
“That’s on me,” Stafford said. “I can’t make that decision.”
Jake Rudock, Detroit’s backup quarterback, connected with Jared Abbrederis for an 11-yard score late in the third and led another drive that ended with Washington’s 1-yard run to put the Lions up 28-24 midway through the fourth.
Jimmy Garoppolo set up Stephen Gostkowski’s 25-yard field goal to pull New England within a point with 3:41 left. After the Patriots defense forced Detroit to punt, their backup QB put Gostkowski in a position to make a go-ahead, 45-yard kick with 2 seconds to go.
“We did some good things, but there’s still a long way to go,” New England coach Bill Belichick said. “We have to grind out these last two weeks.”
The Patriots host the Kansas City Chiefs on Sept. 7, opening night of the NFL season.
HURRY UP:
The Patriots went into regular season, or playoff mode, by using their no-huddle offense at times with Brady and Garoppolo.
“It’s always tough to run that on the road, so we want to get some snaps in,” Belichick said.
DUAL THREAT:
Lions running back Ameer Abdullah had 60 yards rushing on 13 carries and three receptions for 39 yards. In three preseason games, he has run for 78 yards on 18 attempts and caught five passes for 58 yards to provide the team with some hope after he was limited to two games last year because of a foot injury.
“You can see he’s got his quickness and elusiveness back,” Caldwell said. “We’re pleased with where he is.”
INJURY UPDATE:
Patriots: If Edelman has to miss any games during the regular season, New England may lean on players such as Hogan and Danny Amendola to fill his role as a slippery receiver in the slot. Edelman led the Patriots with 98 receptions and 1,106 yards receiving last season and was a key player during their championship run.
Lions: TE Cole Wick, getting a chance to play a lot with Eric Ebron out with a hamstring injury, left the game with a chest injury and LB Tahir Whitehead went out with a knee injury. RB Theo Riddick, coming off wrist surgery, made his preseason debut. He didn’t gain a yard on one carry.
“It was good to get him in there and moving around a bit,” Caldwell said.
___
AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org and www.twitter.com/AP_NFL
Associated Press
Julian Edelman, who led the team in receptions and yards receiving last year, limped off the field with an injured right knee early in New England’s 30-28 victory over the Detroit Lions on Friday night.
The preseason victory may have been costly.
Edelman was injured as he was tackled by safety Tavon Wilson, a former teammate, after having three receptions for 52 yards in a four-play stretch. He was evaluated in a blue tent behind his team’s bench briefly before being taken to the locker room on a cart and getting ruled out for the game.
Edelman was hurt on the opening possession that ended with Tom Brady throwing his first of two touchdown passes to Chris Hogan in a 30-28 victory over the Detroit Lions on Friday night.
“We’ve got great chemistry together, and he’s an incredible player,” Brady said. “But someone will have to step up.”
Brady was 12 of 15 for 174 yards with two TDs and an interception. He helped New England take a 24-0 lead late in the first quarter and the 40-year-old, five-time Super Bowl champion was in midseason form.
“He’s as good as they come,” Detroit coach Jim Caldwell said. “He gets the ball out quickly. He makes good decision. He’s an unusual guy. There hasn’t been anybody who has stopped him since he has been in this league.”
FALLING SHORT:
After Detroit receiver Golden Tate lost a fumble on his team’s first snap and the Lions were called for five penalties in the first quarter, they rallied to make the score close.
Matthew Stafford threw a 23-yard TD pass to Marvin Jones late in the first half and an 18-yard pass to Dwayne Washington for another score early in the third against New England’s backups. He finished 15 of 22 for 190 yards, two TDs and an interception that he threw into traffic over the middle.
“That’s on me,” Stafford said. “I can’t make that decision.”
Jake Rudock, Detroit’s backup quarterback, connected with Jared Abbrederis for an 11-yard score late in the third and led another drive that ended with Washington’s 1-yard run to put the Lions up 28-24 midway through the fourth.
Jimmy Garoppolo set up Stephen Gostkowski’s 25-yard field goal to pull New England within a point with 3:41 left. After the Patriots defense forced Detroit to punt, their backup QB put Gostkowski in a position to make a go-ahead, 45-yard kick with 2 seconds to go.
“We did some good things, but there’s still a long way to go,” New England coach Bill Belichick said. “We have to grind out these last two weeks.”
The Patriots host the Kansas City Chiefs on Sept. 7, opening night of the NFL season.
HURRY UP:
The Patriots went into regular season, or playoff mode, by using their no-huddle offense at times with Brady and Garoppolo.
“It’s always tough to run that on the road, so we want to get some snaps in,” Belichick said.
DUAL THREAT:
Lions running back Ameer Abdullah had 60 yards rushing on 13 carries and three receptions for 39 yards. In three preseason games, he has run for 78 yards on 18 attempts and caught five passes for 58 yards to provide the team with some hope after he was limited to two games last year because of a foot injury.
“You can see he’s got his quickness and elusiveness back,” Caldwell said. “We’re pleased with where he is.”
INJURY UPDATE:
Patriots: If Edelman has to miss any games during the regular season, New England may lean on players such as Hogan and Danny Amendola to fill his role as a slippery receiver in the slot. Edelman led the Patriots with 98 receptions and 1,106 yards receiving last season and was a key player during their championship run.
Lions: TE Cole Wick, getting a chance to play a lot with Eric Ebron out with a hamstring injury, left the game with a chest injury and LB Tahir Whitehead went out with a knee injury. RB Theo Riddick, coming off wrist surgery, made his preseason debut. He didn’t gain a yard on one carry.
“It was good to get him in there and moving around a bit,” Caldwell said.
___
AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org and www.twitter.com/AP_NFL
Seahawks win 26-13; Chiefs’ Ware sprains right knee
By TIM BOOTH
Associated Press
SEATTLE (AP) — Kansas City running back Spencer Ware’s right knee injury might not be as bad as first feared.
Ware sprained his right knee and was carted off the field in the Chiefs’ 26-13 preseason loss to the Seattle Seahawks on Friday night. But Kansas City coach Andy Reid said after the game that X-rays came back negative and that Ware would have an MRI to further access the damage Saturday.
It was optimistic news for what appeared to be a major injury.
“We’ll just see how that turns out,” Reid said.
Russell Wilson was again brilliant for Seattle, throwing for 200 yards and a touchdown, but his performance was secondary to the injury suffered by Ware and the impact it could have for the Chiefs.
Ware remained on the turf after making a 6-yard reception on a pass from Alex Smith in the first quarter. Ware appeared to take an awkward step with his right leg during the play and team trainers were looking at his knee while he was down on the field. Players from both teams took a knee while Ware was examined, and he was taken off the field on a cart.
“Our guys like the heck out of him. He is one of our guys,” Seattle coach Pete Carroll said about Ware, who began his career with the Seahawks. “I wanted to send him some love and hope he is OK.”
It was the second straight week a starter in Seattle was taken off the field with a knee injury. The Seahawks lost starting left tackle George Fant for the season last week due because of a torn ACL in his right knee.
The Chiefs have depth at running back with veteran Charcandrick West and impressive rookie Kareem Hunt, who averaged 4.3 yards per carry filling in after Ware was hurt. But Ware’s strength was his versatility as a runner and pass catcher out of the backfield. Ware rushed for 921 yards and had another 447 yards receiving last season for the Chiefs.
“Kareem got good work last week and he learned how fast this thing can change where all of a sudden you become that starter and in a position to do that,” Reid said.
Ware’s injury was part of a lackluster effort form Kansas City’s offense. Smith was 7 of 17 for just 44 yards although there were a handful of drops. The Chiefs had just 102 total yards in the first half against Seattle’s starters and Kansas City’s only touchdown came on a 95-yard kickoff return from De’Anthony Thomas .
Wilson’s stellar preseason continued , playing the entire first half and one drive of the second half. He threw a 2-yard touchdown to Tre Madden and led Seattle on four scoring drives, including three field goals by Blair Walsh. In parts of three preseason games, Wilson is 29 of 41 for 447 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions.
“Everything he has done looks like it is culminating in really good, solid decision making, really clear thinking, very decisive, quick with the football,” Carroll said.
The biggest area of concern for Seattle coming into the week was how the offensive line would respond to the loss of Fant. His replacement, Rees Odhiambo, went mostly unnoticed with the exception of one play early in the third quarter. Chris Jones, in his preseason debut following offseason knee surgery, made Odhiambo whiff and engulfed Wilson for the only sack allowed by the Seahawks starters.
“Everything was pretty good for the most part,” Odhiambo said. “A few things we’ve got to clean up a little bit but for the most part I felt like we did a really good job.”
MAHOMES MADNESS: Kansas City rookie Patrick Mahomes wasn’t quite as impressive as the first two weeks of the preseason. Mahomes was 8 of 15 for 70 yards passing and led one scoring drive — a 32-yard field goal by Sam Ficken — in four possessions.
BACKUP BATTLE: The backup QB role in Seattle could be back open after Trevone Boykin had a miserable night and Austin Davis was solid. Boykin missed on all six attempts with an interception, while Davis was 5-of 5 for 64 yards and a 28-yard TD pass to Tanner McEvoy in the fourth quarter.
Carroll said the offense was so out of rhythm that he doesn’t read much into Boykin’s performance.
BENNETT SITS: Seahawks DE Michael Bennett continued to sit on the Seattle bench during the national anthem. For the second straight week, teammate Justin Britt stood next to Bennett with his right hand on Bennett’s shoulder. Cliff Avril stood for most of the anthem before sitting next to Bennett at the end.
SITTING OUT: Chiefs DE Justin Houston was expected to make his debut but was scratched due to illness. Safety Eric Berry and outside linebacker Tamba Hali were also among the veterans that rested.
Seattle wide receiver Tyler Lockett went through full pregame warmups but did not play as he continues to recover from a broken leg suffered late last season. Also sitting out was running backs Thomas Rawls and C.J. Prosise, and linebacker Michael Wilhoite.
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Associated Press
Ware sprained his right knee and was carted off the field in the Chiefs’ 26-13 preseason loss to the Seattle Seahawks on Friday night. But Kansas City coach Andy Reid said after the game that X-rays came back negative and that Ware would have an MRI to further access the damage Saturday.
It was optimistic news for what appeared to be a major injury.
“We’ll just see how that turns out,” Reid said.
Russell Wilson was again brilliant for Seattle, throwing for 200 yards and a touchdown, but his performance was secondary to the injury suffered by Ware and the impact it could have for the Chiefs.
Ware remained on the turf after making a 6-yard reception on a pass from Alex Smith in the first quarter. Ware appeared to take an awkward step with his right leg during the play and team trainers were looking at his knee while he was down on the field. Players from both teams took a knee while Ware was examined, and he was taken off the field on a cart.
“Our guys like the heck out of him. He is one of our guys,” Seattle coach Pete Carroll said about Ware, who began his career with the Seahawks. “I wanted to send him some love and hope he is OK.”
It was the second straight week a starter in Seattle was taken off the field with a knee injury. The Seahawks lost starting left tackle George Fant for the season last week due because of a torn ACL in his right knee.
The Chiefs have depth at running back with veteran Charcandrick West and impressive rookie Kareem Hunt, who averaged 4.3 yards per carry filling in after Ware was hurt. But Ware’s strength was his versatility as a runner and pass catcher out of the backfield. Ware rushed for 921 yards and had another 447 yards receiving last season for the Chiefs.
“Kareem got good work last week and he learned how fast this thing can change where all of a sudden you become that starter and in a position to do that,” Reid said.
Ware’s injury was part of a lackluster effort form Kansas City’s offense. Smith was 7 of 17 for just 44 yards although there were a handful of drops. The Chiefs had just 102 total yards in the first half against Seattle’s starters and Kansas City’s only touchdown came on a 95-yard kickoff return from De’Anthony Thomas .
Wilson’s stellar preseason continued , playing the entire first half and one drive of the second half. He threw a 2-yard touchdown to Tre Madden and led Seattle on four scoring drives, including three field goals by Blair Walsh. In parts of three preseason games, Wilson is 29 of 41 for 447 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions.
“Everything he has done looks like it is culminating in really good, solid decision making, really clear thinking, very decisive, quick with the football,” Carroll said.
The biggest area of concern for Seattle coming into the week was how the offensive line would respond to the loss of Fant. His replacement, Rees Odhiambo, went mostly unnoticed with the exception of one play early in the third quarter. Chris Jones, in his preseason debut following offseason knee surgery, made Odhiambo whiff and engulfed Wilson for the only sack allowed by the Seahawks starters.
“Everything was pretty good for the most part,” Odhiambo said. “A few things we’ve got to clean up a little bit but for the most part I felt like we did a really good job.”
MAHOMES MADNESS: Kansas City rookie Patrick Mahomes wasn’t quite as impressive as the first two weeks of the preseason. Mahomes was 8 of 15 for 70 yards passing and led one scoring drive — a 32-yard field goal by Sam Ficken — in four possessions.
BACKUP BATTLE: The backup QB role in Seattle could be back open after Trevone Boykin had a miserable night and Austin Davis was solid. Boykin missed on all six attempts with an interception, while Davis was 5-of 5 for 64 yards and a 28-yard TD pass to Tanner McEvoy in the fourth quarter.
Carroll said the offense was so out of rhythm that he doesn’t read much into Boykin’s performance.
BENNETT SITS: Seahawks DE Michael Bennett continued to sit on the Seattle bench during the national anthem. For the second straight week, teammate Justin Britt stood next to Bennett with his right hand on Bennett’s shoulder. Cliff Avril stood for most of the anthem before sitting next to Bennett at the end.
SITTING OUT: Chiefs DE Justin Houston was expected to make his debut but was scratched due to illness. Safety Eric Berry and outside linebacker Tamba Hali were also among the veterans that rested.
Seattle wide receiver Tyler Lockett went through full pregame warmups but did not play as he continues to recover from a broken leg suffered late last season. Also sitting out was running backs Thomas Rawls and C.J. Prosise, and linebacker Michael Wilhoite.
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Friday, August 25, 2017
Wentz, Cutler look sharp; Eagles beat Dolphins 38-31
By ROB MAADDI
Associated Press
PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Carson Wentz and Jay Cutler are ready for the regular season. Most of their teammates still need more work.
Wentz threw touchdown passes to both of his new receivers, Mychal Kendricks returned an interception 31 yards for a score and the Philadelphia Eagles beat the Miami Dolphins 38-31 on Thursday night.
Playing his second game since coming out of retirement to replace injured Dolphins starter Ryan Tannehill, Cutler was 5 of 8 for 105 yards and one TD . His surgically repaired right shoulder looked fine on a 72-yard pass to DeVante Parker.
Wentz connected with Torrey Smith on a 50-yard TD down the right side on a third-and-8 on Philadelphia's opening series for a 7-0 lead. Smith, who was signed along with Alshon Jeffery in free agency to bolster the receiving group, didn't have a catch in the first two games.
Wentz then hit Jeffery for a 20-yard gain and found him again for a 15-yard TD pass over the middle on his fourth and final series. Wentz finished 6 of 10 for 129 yards, two TDs and one interception. Coming in, there were concerns Jeffery wasn't on the same page with Wentz because he has missed a lot of practice time.
"I felt really confident in our chemistry going back to the spring, but it was nice to do it in a game here in front of the fans," Wentz said.
Jay Ajayi had a pair of 2-yard TD runs for the Dolphins and Cutler tossed a 1-yard TD pass to Julius Thomas.
"It seems like his pocket presence is coming back," Dolphins coach Adam Gase said of Cutler. "It was a step in the right direction."
Eagles reserves led by No. 3 quarterback Matt McGloin had a six-play, 53-yard TD drive against Miami's starters. Corey Clement capped it with a 3-yard TD run that tied it at 21.
"They got a good feel for us and they made a couple plays," Dolphins cornerback Byron Maxwell said.
Mychal Kendricks then intercepted Matt Moore's tipped pass and returned it for a score to put Philadelphia ahead 28-21.
The teams were quite familiar with each other after scrimmaging twice this week.
"That helped me a lot, really sped up my clock," Cutler said.
SHOOTOUT
The Dolphins hadn't scored this many points in a preseason game since 1999. The 69 combined points were the most in a preseason game in team history.
QB WATCH
Dolphins: Moore was 5 of 11 for 43 yards and two interceptions. ... No. 3 QB Brandon Doughty was 2 of 7 for 74 yards and one TD, a 69-yard TD pass to Jakeem Grant.
Eagles: Backup Nick Foles sat out again while resting an elbow injury. ... McGloin was 22 of 26 for 155 yards, one TD, one interception.
IMPRESSIVE RETURNS
Dolphins DT Jordan Phillips had a rumbling 18-yard return after he picked Wentz, setting up one of Ajayi's TD runs.
Eagles reserve LB Don Cherry had a nifty 42-yard return after intercepting Doughty's pass.
DEFENSIVE GOAT
CB Ronald Darby, who was acquired from Buffalo two weeks ago, struggled after an impressive debut with the Eagles. He allowed the long pass to Parker and had a 42-yard pass interference penalty in the end zone.
ANTHEM PROTEST
Philadelphia's Chris Long, who grew up in Charlottesville, Virginia, put his arm around teammate Malcolm Jenkins as a show of unity during the national anthem for the second straight week. Jenkins stood with his right fist raised in the air as he's done since last season. He was surrounded by Long, who is white, and Rodney McLeod and Najee Goode. Ron Brooks took a knee behind them.
LEG STRENGTH
Miami's Andrew Franks made a 56-yard FG at the end of the first half.
INJURIES
Dolphins: TE Thomas Duarte suffered a concussion.
Eagles: Rookie LB Nate Gerry left with a hamstring injury.
___
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Newton perfect in preseason debut, Panthers edge Jags 24-23
By MARK LONG
Associated Press
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Cam Newton was perfect in his preseason debut.
Seeing live action for the first time since last season's finale, Newton completed both of his passes for 21 yards and a touchdown in the Carolina Panthers' 24-23 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars on Thursday night.
Newton's 9-yard slant pass to Kelvin Benjamin capped a 10-play opening drive that showed coach Ron Rivera all he needed to see from his star quarterback. Newton spent the rest of the night watching from the sideline.
Afterward, Newton said he was ready for the season opener.
"Absolutely," he said. "You ain't got no choice. When everything gets to going, pretty sure coach will have everyone ready to go. And that's all you can ask for."
The 2015 league MVP had surgery in March to repair a partially torn rotator cuff in his right, throwing shoulder. Newton participated in the first five practices of training camp before developing soreness and backing off for nearly two weeks.
He amped up his workload this week in preparation for the team's third exhibition, quite possibly the only action he'll get in the preseason. The Panthers (2-1) wrap up exhibition play next week against Pittsburgh.
The Jaguars (1-2), meanwhile, will continue their quarterback competition into the preseason finale at Atlanta.
"I've got to do the best job for the organization and best job for the team," coach Doug Marrone said. "I'm not going to put that pressure on myself to say, 'Hey, listen, I need to do this.' I've got time. You'd like to make the decision quickly, but you want to make sure you make the right decision. That's the most important thing."
Chad Henne got the start over Blake Bortles and had an up-and-down night that would have been much better if not for a drop. Henne completed 8 of 14 passes for 73 yards. He lofted two perfect deep balls to rookie Keelan Cole and Allen Robinson, although Cole dropped a would-be touchdown for the second time in as many games.
Henne also was sacked three times and had a pass batted down at the line of scrimmage. He led the Jaguars on two scoring drives in five possessions, the first one aided by a 51-yard run on a fake punt.
Bortles was 12-of-16 passing for 125 yards, highlighted by a 4-yard touchdown pass to Shane Wynn in the fourth quarter. Bortles also threw an interception that was returned 48 yards and set up a touchdown in the third. The ill-advised pass was a little behind Allen Hurns and into double coverage.
Bortles and Jacksonville's starting offensive line played deep into the fourth quarter, facing mostly second- and third-teamers.
It came a week after Marrone essentially benched Bortles following a rough preseason outing.
"I don't know if it can get any worse than that," Bortles said. "As a quarterback in the NFL, it's probably the last thing you ever want to hear. You can roll over and lay down or you can just keep working and grinding and earn that spot. So you have two options. You pick one and you go."
WELCOME BACK
Two-time All-Pro center Ryan Kalil also made his preseason debut after sitting out two games with a shoulder injury. And rookie receiver Curtis Samuel, a second-round draft pick from Ohio State, saw extensive action after missing time because of a hamstring injury. Samuel finished with four receptions for 15 yards. He was targeted a team-high six times.
MAKING AMENDS
Jaguars kicker Jason Myers drilled a 44-yard field goal and both extra points, saving his job at least for now. Myers missed three field-goal attempts and an extra point in Jacksonville's first two preseason games, prompting the Jaguars to bring in veteran Dan Carpenter and Patrick Murray for workouts last weekend. The team opted not to sign either one, instead putting Myers on notice about his shaky job security.
SITTING OUT
The Jaguars were without several starters, including running back Leonard Fournette (foot), receiver Marqise Lee (ankle) and cornerback A.J. Bouye (undisclosed). Cornerback Aaron Colvin (ankle), receiver Rashad Greene (back), running back T.J. Yeldon (hamstring), defensive end Dante Fowler (leg), tight end Mychal Rivera (hand) and defensive tackle Michael Bennett (lower body) also sat out.
INJURIES
Panthers: Guard Dan France left the game to be evaluated for a concussion.
Jaguars: Cornerback Doran Grant also was evaluated for a concussion and cleared to return.
___
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Saturday, August 19, 2017
Fant's injury cast shadow over Seahawks' win over Vikings
By TIM BOOTH
Associated Press
SEATTLE (AP) — Just when the Seattle Seahawks were getting settled on its shaky offensive line, it's once again their biggest question with the regular season approaching.
Russell Wilson looked just fine throwing for 206 yards and two touchdowns in the first half, and the Seattle Seahawks suffered a significant injury to left tackle George Fant in their 20-13 victory over the Minnesota Vikings on Friday night.
Fant suffered a torn ACL in his right knee when he was injured midway through the second quarter. Fant was rolled into by teammate Justin Britt and immediately fell to the turf in pain. The team training staff attended to Fant on the field and placed an air splint around his lower right leg before he was taken away.
Seattle coach Pete Carroll said Fant will need surgery and expected to be done for the season.
"It's heartbreaking. It's so unfortunate for George," Carroll said. "There are other things that follow that but my first thoughts are for George."
Fant's injury likely means significant changes for Seattle's offensive line. Luke Joeckel was set to be the starting left guard, but may be an option at left tackle with the entire right side of the line still unsettled.
Fant took over at left tackle midway through last season and spent the offseason reshaping his body to be stronger going into this season. Earlier this week offensive line coach Tom Cable said Seattle was set on the left side of the offensive line.
Fant's injury overshadowed what was an otherwise solid performance by the Seahawks. Wilson picked apart a Vikings secondary that played without starting cornerback Trey Waynes and safety Andrew Sedenjo, completing 13 of 18 passes. He hit Kasen Williams on a 1-yard touchdown pass and found Mike Davis on a 22-yard catch-and-run TD late in the first half.
Williams continued to make a bid for a roster spot with an acrobatic 27-yard catch, followed by his 1-yard TD on Seattle's opening drive. He nearly had a second TD but couldn't haul in a deep pass from Wilson near the goal line in the second quarter.
"I've been on practice squad for two years now and quite honestly I'm tired of it," Williams said.
Minnesota's Sam Bradford was 7 of 11 for 95 yards, leading three drives for the Vikings before calling it a night. Taylor Heinicke threw a 21-yard touchdown pass to Bucky Hodges in the fourth quarter.
"It was progress from last week to this week, we moved the ball well," Minnesota coach Mike Zimmer said. "We still have to score in the red zone that was the bad part, but I felt good about the way we were moving the football."
BENNETT SITS
Seahawks defensive end Michael Bennett sat during the national anthem for the second straight preseason game.
Bennett was alone sitting on the Seahawks bench during the "The Star-Spangled Banner." But teammates showed support for Bennett with center Justin Britt standing alongside with his hand on Bennett's shoulder. Defensive back Jeremy Lane also stood next to Bennett.
"I'm going to continue talking with Mike and exploring and just continuing to understand. I wanted to take a first step tonight and that's what I felt like I did," Britt said.
KICKER REVENGE
Walsh took great joy in having success against his former team that released him last season. Walsh made a pair of 52-yard field goals in the second half and made gestures toward the Minnesota sideline after each kick. Walsh pointed at the sideline after his first make and walked toward the bench and appeared to say something after the second.
Walsh nearly had three made kicks of beyond 50 yards but a 53-yard attempt in the first half hit the crossbar. Zimmer said he did not see any of Walsh's gestures.
"When they're out there kind of yelling at you and taunting you on kicks it's just I've been in the league a little while, I didn't really like that," Walsh said. "I hope it was in jest because my response was in jest. I could see guys smiling so I hope nobody took it too seriously."
START COOKIN'
Vikings' rookie Dalvin Cook ran well in the first half against most of Seattle's starting defense. With the Vikings bringing back Latavius Murray slowly from ankle surgery in March, Cook had seven carries for 40 yards in the first half, including a 15-yarder. Cook also had one reception for 10 yards.
KICKIN' IT
Both of Minnesota's kickers converted their opportunities in the first half. Marshall Koehn hit from 29 yards in the first quarter and Kai Forbath was good from 51 yards just before halftime. That was the only opportunities for either kicker as the Vikings had only two drives inside the Seattle 40.
CELEBRATE GOOD TIMES
Davis' touchdown was his first since signing with the Seahawks in the offseason and he had a unique celebration. Davis ran into the end zone then laid down using the ball as a pillow as his teammates joined him to celebrate. It was the most extensive of any of the touchdown celebrations.
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Associated Press
SEATTLE (AP) — Just when the Seattle Seahawks were getting settled on its shaky offensive line, it's once again their biggest question with the regular season approaching.
Russell Wilson looked just fine throwing for 206 yards and two touchdowns in the first half, and the Seattle Seahawks suffered a significant injury to left tackle George Fant in their 20-13 victory over the Minnesota Vikings on Friday night.
Fant suffered a torn ACL in his right knee when he was injured midway through the second quarter. Fant was rolled into by teammate Justin Britt and immediately fell to the turf in pain. The team training staff attended to Fant on the field and placed an air splint around his lower right leg before he was taken away.
Seattle coach Pete Carroll said Fant will need surgery and expected to be done for the season.
"It's heartbreaking. It's so unfortunate for George," Carroll said. "There are other things that follow that but my first thoughts are for George."
Fant's injury likely means significant changes for Seattle's offensive line. Luke Joeckel was set to be the starting left guard, but may be an option at left tackle with the entire right side of the line still unsettled.
Fant took over at left tackle midway through last season and spent the offseason reshaping his body to be stronger going into this season. Earlier this week offensive line coach Tom Cable said Seattle was set on the left side of the offensive line.
Fant's injury overshadowed what was an otherwise solid performance by the Seahawks. Wilson picked apart a Vikings secondary that played without starting cornerback Trey Waynes and safety Andrew Sedenjo, completing 13 of 18 passes. He hit Kasen Williams on a 1-yard touchdown pass and found Mike Davis on a 22-yard catch-and-run TD late in the first half.
Williams continued to make a bid for a roster spot with an acrobatic 27-yard catch, followed by his 1-yard TD on Seattle's opening drive. He nearly had a second TD but couldn't haul in a deep pass from Wilson near the goal line in the second quarter.
"I've been on practice squad for two years now and quite honestly I'm tired of it," Williams said.
Minnesota's Sam Bradford was 7 of 11 for 95 yards, leading three drives for the Vikings before calling it a night. Taylor Heinicke threw a 21-yard touchdown pass to Bucky Hodges in the fourth quarter.
"It was progress from last week to this week, we moved the ball well," Minnesota coach Mike Zimmer said. "We still have to score in the red zone that was the bad part, but I felt good about the way we were moving the football."
BENNETT SITS
Seahawks defensive end Michael Bennett sat during the national anthem for the second straight preseason game.
Bennett was alone sitting on the Seahawks bench during the "The Star-Spangled Banner." But teammates showed support for Bennett with center Justin Britt standing alongside with his hand on Bennett's shoulder. Defensive back Jeremy Lane also stood next to Bennett.
"I'm going to continue talking with Mike and exploring and just continuing to understand. I wanted to take a first step tonight and that's what I felt like I did," Britt said.
KICKER REVENGE
Walsh took great joy in having success against his former team that released him last season. Walsh made a pair of 52-yard field goals in the second half and made gestures toward the Minnesota sideline after each kick. Walsh pointed at the sideline after his first make and walked toward the bench and appeared to say something after the second.
Walsh nearly had three made kicks of beyond 50 yards but a 53-yard attempt in the first half hit the crossbar. Zimmer said he did not see any of Walsh's gestures.
"When they're out there kind of yelling at you and taunting you on kicks it's just I've been in the league a little while, I didn't really like that," Walsh said. "I hope it was in jest because my response was in jest. I could see guys smiling so I hope nobody took it too seriously."
START COOKIN'
Vikings' rookie Dalvin Cook ran well in the first half against most of Seattle's starting defense. With the Vikings bringing back Latavius Murray slowly from ankle surgery in March, Cook had seven carries for 40 yards in the first half, including a 15-yarder. Cook also had one reception for 10 yards.
KICKIN' IT
Both of Minnesota's kickers converted their opportunities in the first half. Marshall Koehn hit from 29 yards in the first quarter and Kai Forbath was good from 51 yards just before halftime. That was the only opportunities for either kicker as the Vikings had only two drives inside the Seattle 40.
CELEBRATE GOOD TIMES
Davis' touchdown was his first since signing with the Seahawks in the offseason and he had a unique celebration. Davis ran into the end zone then laid down using the ball as a pillow as his teammates joined him to celebrate. It was the most extensive of any of the touchdown celebrations.
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Friday, August 18, 2017
Bye, bye Bortles? Jaguars open up quarterback competition
By MARK LONG
Associated Press
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Blake Bortles may have started his last game in Jacksonville.
Coach Doug Marrone opened up the team's quarterback competition Thursday night after another inconsistent performance from Bortles, the third overall pick in the 2014 NFL draft.
Bortles completed 8 of 13 passes for 65 yards in a 12-8 exhibition loss to Tampa Bay. All four of his drives ended with punts. The first-team offense now has three points in Bortles' six preseason possessions.
He misfired to Allen Robinson twice Thursday, including a woefully underthrown pass down the seam that drew boos from the home crowd and caused some head-shaking on the sideline.
"It's hard to not hear people booing," Bortles said. "But if they're cheering or booing, it's kind of irrelevant, at least for me it is. I think you've got to treat adversity and prosperity the same way. They're not booing for no reason. They're booing because you didn't do your job."
Bortles hasn't gotten it done in three-plus seasons.
The former Central Florida standout has 11 wins and 11 interceptions returned for touchdowns in 45 career starts.
His mechanics have mostly been a mess. His decision-making has been dreadful at times. And his confidence sure seemed crushed after an awkward few weeks of training camp.
Bortles had a five-interception performance during the team's first practice in full pads last month and has been up and down since. He seemingly got benched last week after throwing two picks early in practice.
Marrone said Bortles' "arm looked tired." Bortles denied having any issues. That was the first indication that Bortles' job security was in jeopardy.
The Jaguars probably should have seen this coming. After all, Marrone and offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett watched Bortles up close the last two years and knew all his flaws.
But instead of drafting a quarterback or bringing in a veteran to compete with Bortles, Jacksonville publicly supported him. Coughlin and general manager Dave Caldwell even picked up the fifth-year option in Bortles' rookie contract, which would pay him $19 million in 2018. The deal is guaranteed for injury only, meaning the team can part ways with Bortles and not owe him anything beyond this season.
Still, putting Bortles on the field could be considered a financial risk.
Marrone surely doesn't have money on his mind.
"I'm looking for someone who is going to lead this offense," Marrone said. "I'm not happy with the performance. I'm not going to sit here and BS anyone. Everyone saw it out there. Whatever you want to call it, I'm still trying to evaluate who the best person is at that position."
It could be Chad Henne.
The 10th-year pro and former second-round pick by Miami completed 6 of 10 passes for 44 yards against the Bucs. Henne's first pass should have been a touchdown, but rookie Keelan Cole dropped it at the goal line.
Henne started 22 games for Jacksonville between 2012 and 2014, but has backed up Bortles since. He has completed 59 percent of his passes for 12,931 yards, with 58 touchdowns and 63 interceptions.
"I always took it as I'm always competing and never really said I'm the backup even though that's the way it was," Henne said. "I still study hard and try to prove in practice what I can do. All I can do is to try to get myself better prepared each week."
Henne isn't a long-term solution. So Jacksonville surely will start over at the all-important position in 2018 by selecting a quarterback in what appears to be a strong draft class or signing one in what appears to be a solid free-agent fold.
"We're going to figure this thing out," Marrone said. "It's just simple. I'm not going to try to make this thing complicated. I'm looking for the best person to lead our offense."
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Associated Press
Coach Doug Marrone opened up the team's quarterback competition Thursday night after another inconsistent performance from Bortles, the third overall pick in the 2014 NFL draft.
Bortles completed 8 of 13 passes for 65 yards in a 12-8 exhibition loss to Tampa Bay. All four of his drives ended with punts. The first-team offense now has three points in Bortles' six preseason possessions.
He misfired to Allen Robinson twice Thursday, including a woefully underthrown pass down the seam that drew boos from the home crowd and caused some head-shaking on the sideline.
"It's hard to not hear people booing," Bortles said. "But if they're cheering or booing, it's kind of irrelevant, at least for me it is. I think you've got to treat adversity and prosperity the same way. They're not booing for no reason. They're booing because you didn't do your job."
Bortles hasn't gotten it done in three-plus seasons.
The former Central Florida standout has 11 wins and 11 interceptions returned for touchdowns in 45 career starts.
His mechanics have mostly been a mess. His decision-making has been dreadful at times. And his confidence sure seemed crushed after an awkward few weeks of training camp.
Bortles had a five-interception performance during the team's first practice in full pads last month and has been up and down since. He seemingly got benched last week after throwing two picks early in practice.
Marrone said Bortles' "arm looked tired." Bortles denied having any issues. That was the first indication that Bortles' job security was in jeopardy.
The Jaguars probably should have seen this coming. After all, Marrone and offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett watched Bortles up close the last two years and knew all his flaws.
But instead of drafting a quarterback or bringing in a veteran to compete with Bortles, Jacksonville publicly supported him. Coughlin and general manager Dave Caldwell even picked up the fifth-year option in Bortles' rookie contract, which would pay him $19 million in 2018. The deal is guaranteed for injury only, meaning the team can part ways with Bortles and not owe him anything beyond this season.
Still, putting Bortles on the field could be considered a financial risk.
Marrone surely doesn't have money on his mind.
"I'm looking for someone who is going to lead this offense," Marrone said. "I'm not happy with the performance. I'm not going to sit here and BS anyone. Everyone saw it out there. Whatever you want to call it, I'm still trying to evaluate who the best person is at that position."
It could be Chad Henne.
The 10th-year pro and former second-round pick by Miami completed 6 of 10 passes for 44 yards against the Bucs. Henne's first pass should have been a touchdown, but rookie Keelan Cole dropped it at the goal line.
Henne started 22 games for Jacksonville between 2012 and 2014, but has backed up Bortles since. He has completed 59 percent of his passes for 12,931 yards, with 58 touchdowns and 63 interceptions.
"I always took it as I'm always competing and never really said I'm the backup even though that's the way it was," Henne said. "I still study hard and try to prove in practice what I can do. All I can do is to try to get myself better prepared each week."
Henne isn't a long-term solution. So Jacksonville surely will start over at the all-important position in 2018 by selecting a quarterback in what appears to be a strong draft class or signing one in what appears to be a solid free-agent fold.
"We're going to figure this thing out," Marrone said. "It's just simple. I'm not going to try to make this thing complicated. I'm looking for the best person to lead our offense."
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Oakland Raiders cornerback Sean Smith faces assault charge
By MICHAEL BALSAMO
Associated Press
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Oakland Raiders cornerback Sean Smith has been charged with beating his sister's boyfriend last month, Los Angeles prosecutors said Thursday.
The 30-year-old Smith is scheduled to be arraigned next month on assault and battery charges, according to the Los Angeles County district attorney's office.
Prosecutors say Smith beat his sister's boyfriend and then stomped on the man's head in Pasadena on July 4. Court documents said Smith inflicted "serious bodily injury."
Smith, from Pasadena, is in his second season with the Raiders. The former University of Utah star played for Miami from 2009-12 and Kansas City from 2013-15.
He pleaded guilty in 2015 to a driving under the influence charge in Kansas City and was sentenced to two years of probation.
Los Angeles County jail records showed Smith was released Thursday night after posting $80,000 bail.
Smith is scheduled to be arraigned in Pasadena on Sept. 29. If convicted, he faces up to seven years in prison.
A spokesman for the Raiders did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment.
Associated Press
The 30-year-old Smith is scheduled to be arraigned next month on assault and battery charges, according to the Los Angeles County district attorney's office.
Prosecutors say Smith beat his sister's boyfriend and then stomped on the man's head in Pasadena on July 4. Court documents said Smith inflicted "serious bodily injury."
Smith, from Pasadena, is in his second season with the Raiders. The former University of Utah star played for Miami from 2009-12 and Kansas City from 2013-15.
He pleaded guilty in 2015 to a driving under the influence charge in Kansas City and was sentenced to two years of probation.
Los Angeles County jail records showed Smith was released Thursday night after posting $80,000 bail.
Smith is scheduled to be arraigned in Pasadena on Sept. 29. If convicted, he faces up to seven years in prison.
A spokesman for the Raiders did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment.
Gun charge against former NFL linebacker dropped
Associated Press
ELIZABETH, N.J. (AP) — A gun charge against a free agent NFL linebacker has been dropped because the man who said he gave him a weapon admitted he lied, the player's attorney said.
The charges against Khaseem Greene were dismissed by a judge on July 17 after a request from prosecutors, NJ.com reported (http://bit.ly/2wVi04v ) this week.
His attorney, Joshua McMahon, provided an audio recording to NJ.com that includes the other man telling detectives in Elizabeth that he lied about Greene's involvement in a shooting outside of a nightclub in Elizabeth last December.
Jason Sanders' admission came on the same day he told detectives that Greene was involved, but it wasn't included in a criminal complaint that alleged that Greene was seen on camera handing a gun to him, McMahon said. Sanders remains jailed on aggravated assault and weapons offenses after police say he fired into a crowd.
McMahon said the audio recording proves that prosecutors moved forward with charges even though Sanders admitted he lied.
The prosecutors' office said it couldn't comment on specifics of the case while the case against Sanders is pending. A spokesperson for Elizabeth's mayor and police department declined to comment.
"The prosecutor's office and police department worked in concert to repeatedly perpetrate at least two lies to the judge who they sought the initial arrest warrant from, and the grand jurors who returned the indictment," McMahon told NJ.com.
"Specifically, police and prosecutors, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary, falsely stated Greene was visible on a surveillance video recording handing a gun to another man, who then fired the gun into a crowd; and, second, that the alleged shooter, Jason Sanders, a self-admitted liar and multi-convicted felon, gave a statement to police claiming Greene handed Sanders the gun."
The Kansas City Chiefs released the linebacker on the same day the charges against him were first reported in May. Greene signed with the team in January.
Greene, who starred at Rutgers University, last played a game in 2014 for the Chicago Bears, who drafted him in the fourth round of the 2013 draft.
He appeared in 25 games with six starts over two seasons for Chicago. He had 60 1/2 tackles, one interception and one forced fumble to go with seven special-teams stops.
Greene wore No. 52 for the Bears to pay tribute to his friend and former Rutgers teammate Eric LeGrand, who was paralyzed while playing for Rutgers in 2010.
Greene was the Big East Defensive Player of the Year in 2011 and 2012.
The charges against Khaseem Greene were dismissed by a judge on July 17 after a request from prosecutors, NJ.com reported (http://bit.ly/2wVi04v ) this week.
His attorney, Joshua McMahon, provided an audio recording to NJ.com that includes the other man telling detectives in Elizabeth that he lied about Greene's involvement in a shooting outside of a nightclub in Elizabeth last December.
Jason Sanders' admission came on the same day he told detectives that Greene was involved, but it wasn't included in a criminal complaint that alleged that Greene was seen on camera handing a gun to him, McMahon said. Sanders remains jailed on aggravated assault and weapons offenses after police say he fired into a crowd.
McMahon said the audio recording proves that prosecutors moved forward with charges even though Sanders admitted he lied.
The prosecutors' office said it couldn't comment on specifics of the case while the case against Sanders is pending. A spokesperson for Elizabeth's mayor and police department declined to comment.
"The prosecutor's office and police department worked in concert to repeatedly perpetrate at least two lies to the judge who they sought the initial arrest warrant from, and the grand jurors who returned the indictment," McMahon told NJ.com.
"Specifically, police and prosecutors, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary, falsely stated Greene was visible on a surveillance video recording handing a gun to another man, who then fired the gun into a crowd; and, second, that the alleged shooter, Jason Sanders, a self-admitted liar and multi-convicted felon, gave a statement to police claiming Greene handed Sanders the gun."
The Kansas City Chiefs released the linebacker on the same day the charges against him were first reported in May. Greene signed with the team in January.
Greene, who starred at Rutgers University, last played a game in 2014 for the Chicago Bears, who drafted him in the fourth round of the 2013 draft.
He appeared in 25 games with six starts over two seasons for Chicago. He had 60 1/2 tackles, one interception and one forced fumble to go with seven special-teams stops.
Greene wore No. 52 for the Bears to pay tribute to his friend and former Rutgers teammate Eric LeGrand, who was paralyzed while playing for Rutgers in 2010.
Greene was the Big East Defensive Player of the Year in 2011 and 2012.
Jaguars open up QB competition after 12-8 loss to Bucs
By MARK LONG
Associated Press
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Blake Bortles' career in Jacksonville could be nearing an end.
Coach Doug Marrone opened up the team's quarterback job after Bortles' latest inconsistent performance Thursday night, giving Chad Henne a chance to start.
"I'm looking for someone who is going to lead this offense," Marrone said. "I'm not happy with the performance. I'm not going to sit here and BS anyone. Everyone saw it out there. Whatever you want to call it, I'm still trying to evaluate who the best person is at that position."
Bortles completed 8 of 13 passes for 65 yards in a 12-8 preseason loss to Tampa Bay and headed to the sideline after four possessions that ended with punts. He missed Allen Robinson on two plays, including a woefully underthrown ball down the seam.
"Just didn't make a whole lot of plays," Bortles said. "Missed a couple of throws down the field, and we were very stagnant as an offense."
Henne got some work with the first-team offense, fueling speculation that Bortles had lost his grasp on the job. Even though the move had been planned beforehand, it gave the appearance that Marrone and football czar Tom Coughlin had wavered in their commitment to Bortles. Marrone confirmed it after the game.
"We're going to figure this thing out," Marrone said. "It's just simple. I'm not going to try to make this thing complicated. I'm looking for the best person to lead our offense."
Marrone and Coughlin had publicly supported Bortles all year, even picking up the fifth-year option in his rookie contract. But Marrone pulled the third overall pick in the 2014 NFL draft last week following two interceptions. Marrone said Bortles' "arm looked tired." Bortles denied having any issues.
Bortles doesn't have a touchdown or a turnover in two preseason games.
"It's hard to not hear people booing," Bortles said. "But if they're cheering or booing, it's kind of irrelevant, at least for me it is. I think you've got to treat adversity and prosperity the same way. They're not booing for no reason. They're booing because you didn't do your job."
Henne's first pass should have resulted in a touchdown, but Keelan Cole dropped it at the goal line. Henne finished 6-of-10 passing for 44 yards.
The Jaguars also could have a kicking competition.
Jason Myers missed a field goal and an extra point. He has missed three of four field-goal attempts in two exhibitions. The Jaguars don't have another kicker in camp, but that could change Friday.
"I think that's something that we'll talk about," Marrone said.
WINSTON SHINES
Jameis Winston continued his solid preseason, completing 21 of 29 passes for 196 yards for Tampa Bay.
Winston had two passes dropped, including what would have been a 43-yard touchdown strike to Mike Evans in the first quarter.
The Buccaneers scored on their first three possessions, getting a short touchdown run from Doug Martin and two field goals from Nick Folk. Tampa Bay dominated Jacksonville in two quarters that featured mostly starters, outgaining the Jags 240-59 and looking like the much better team.
"We've got to finish," Winston said. "We've got to have touchdowns in the red zone."
Coach Dirk Koetter praised Winston's performance aside from an ill-advised throw that ended up being a sack.
"Other than that one play, he was extremely sharp," Koetter said. "But we have extremely high standards for him as he does for himself. He took us right down the field, had a lot of run checks, converted on third downs. He did the things that quarterbacks like him are supposed to do, except for one play. ... Elite quarterbacks don't make that play."
FOLK'S NIGHT
Bucs kicker Nick Folk, who won the job last week after the team waived former second-round draft pick Roberto Aguayo, had an extra point blocked by Calais Campbell. He also missed a 47-yarder wide right in the fourth quarter.
SITTING OUT
The Buccaneers played without two starters: cornerback Brent Grimes (leg laceration) and linebacker Devante Bond (sprained knee). The Jaguars were without rookie running back Leonard Fournette (foot), receiver Marqise Lee (ankle) and their top three cornerbacks. Jalen Ramsey, A.J. Bouye and Aaron Colvin did not dress.
INJURIES
Tampa Bay: Starting right tackle Demar Dotson left the game with a groin injury and did not return. Cornerback Josh Robinson injured a hamstring.
Jacksonville: Running back T.J. Yeldon injured his left hamstring and did not return. Cornerback Charles Gaines injured his right eye.
___
For more NFL coverage: http://www.pro32.ap.org and http://www.twitter.com/AP_NFL
Associated Press
Coach Doug Marrone opened up the team's quarterback job after Bortles' latest inconsistent performance Thursday night, giving Chad Henne a chance to start.
"I'm looking for someone who is going to lead this offense," Marrone said. "I'm not happy with the performance. I'm not going to sit here and BS anyone. Everyone saw it out there. Whatever you want to call it, I'm still trying to evaluate who the best person is at that position."
Bortles completed 8 of 13 passes for 65 yards in a 12-8 preseason loss to Tampa Bay and headed to the sideline after four possessions that ended with punts. He missed Allen Robinson on two plays, including a woefully underthrown ball down the seam.
"Just didn't make a whole lot of plays," Bortles said. "Missed a couple of throws down the field, and we were very stagnant as an offense."
Henne got some work with the first-team offense, fueling speculation that Bortles had lost his grasp on the job. Even though the move had been planned beforehand, it gave the appearance that Marrone and football czar Tom Coughlin had wavered in their commitment to Bortles. Marrone confirmed it after the game.
"We're going to figure this thing out," Marrone said. "It's just simple. I'm not going to try to make this thing complicated. I'm looking for the best person to lead our offense."
Marrone and Coughlin had publicly supported Bortles all year, even picking up the fifth-year option in his rookie contract. But Marrone pulled the third overall pick in the 2014 NFL draft last week following two interceptions. Marrone said Bortles' "arm looked tired." Bortles denied having any issues.
Bortles doesn't have a touchdown or a turnover in two preseason games.
"It's hard to not hear people booing," Bortles said. "But if they're cheering or booing, it's kind of irrelevant, at least for me it is. I think you've got to treat adversity and prosperity the same way. They're not booing for no reason. They're booing because you didn't do your job."
Henne's first pass should have resulted in a touchdown, but Keelan Cole dropped it at the goal line. Henne finished 6-of-10 passing for 44 yards.
The Jaguars also could have a kicking competition.
Jason Myers missed a field goal and an extra point. He has missed three of four field-goal attempts in two exhibitions. The Jaguars don't have another kicker in camp, but that could change Friday.
"I think that's something that we'll talk about," Marrone said.
WINSTON SHINES
Jameis Winston continued his solid preseason, completing 21 of 29 passes for 196 yards for Tampa Bay.
Winston had two passes dropped, including what would have been a 43-yard touchdown strike to Mike Evans in the first quarter.
The Buccaneers scored on their first three possessions, getting a short touchdown run from Doug Martin and two field goals from Nick Folk. Tampa Bay dominated Jacksonville in two quarters that featured mostly starters, outgaining the Jags 240-59 and looking like the much better team.
"We've got to finish," Winston said. "We've got to have touchdowns in the red zone."
Coach Dirk Koetter praised Winston's performance aside from an ill-advised throw that ended up being a sack.
"Other than that one play, he was extremely sharp," Koetter said. "But we have extremely high standards for him as he does for himself. He took us right down the field, had a lot of run checks, converted on third downs. He did the things that quarterbacks like him are supposed to do, except for one play. ... Elite quarterbacks don't make that play."
FOLK'S NIGHT
Bucs kicker Nick Folk, who won the job last week after the team waived former second-round draft pick Roberto Aguayo, had an extra point blocked by Calais Campbell. He also missed a 47-yarder wide right in the fourth quarter.
SITTING OUT
The Buccaneers played without two starters: cornerback Brent Grimes (leg laceration) and linebacker Devante Bond (sprained knee). The Jaguars were without rookie running back Leonard Fournette (foot), receiver Marqise Lee (ankle) and their top three cornerbacks. Jalen Ramsey, A.J. Bouye and Aaron Colvin did not dress.
INJURIES
Tampa Bay: Starting right tackle Demar Dotson left the game with a groin injury and did not return. Cornerback Josh Robinson injured a hamstring.
Jacksonville: Running back T.J. Yeldon injured his left hamstring and did not return. Cornerback Charles Gaines injured his right eye.
___
For more NFL coverage: http://www.pro32.ap.org and http://www.twitter.com/AP_NFL
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