Friday Reading

Giants

Schedule
Traina Forbes.com: Cool Facts About The New York Giants' 2019 Regular-Season Schedule
https://www.forbes.com/sites/patriciatraina/2019/04/17/cool-facts-about-giants-2019-regular-season-schedule/amp/

Schneier 247 Sports: Ranking the toughest games on the New York Giants 2019 schedule
https://247sports.com/nfl/new-york-giants/Article/New-York-Giants-2019-schedule-ranking-toughest-games-131309376/

Stapleton The Record: New York Giants: Way-too-early game predictions for the 2019 regular season
https://amp.northjersey.com/amp/3502770002

RV SNY: Giants 2019 Schedule: Win-Loss predictions for every game
https://www.sny.tv/giants/news/giants-2019-schedule-win-loss-predictions-for-every-game/306358884

Draft
RV SNY: Giants 7-round mock draft 5.0: When does Gettleman go QB?
https://www.sny.tv/giants/news/giants-7-round-mock-draft-50-when-does-gettleman-go-qb/306356054

Pizzuta BBV: Dan�s 7-round Giants mock: Taking a different approach
https://www.bigblueview.com/platform/amp/2019/4/17/18412103/7-round-giants-mock-draft-taking-a-different-approach

GM

Duggan The Athletic: What do Dave Gettleman�s past picks tell us about what the Giants may do in the 2019 NFL Draft?
https://theathletic.com/930144/2019/04/18/what-do-dave-gettlemans-past-picks-tell-us-about-what-the-giants-may-do-in-the-2019-nfl-draft/?

Dan Duggan (@DDuggan21)
4/19/19, 8:22 AM
Found this interesting: Gettleman�s �hog mollie� rep isn�t really reflected by draft record. Top 2 picks in his 6 drafts:
2013: DT, DT
2014: WR, DE
2015: LB, WR
2016: DT, CB
2017: RB, WR
2018: RB, OL
Key is he hit on some OL later. But he�s used premium picks on skill positions

Schwartz NYP: The NFL draft �mistake� Dave Gettleman refuses to make
https://nypost.com/2019/04/18/dave-gettleman-wont-let-qb-desperation-direct-giants-draft/

Leonard NYDN: Giants GM Dave Gettleman�s draft mandate should be clear: Don�t screw this up
https://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/giants/ny-dave-gettleman-draft-nfl-20190418-yfpomsc3t5apvezu6rycvxpksa-story.html

Stapleton The Record: NFL Draft: 5 takeaways from NY Giants GM Dave Gettleman's news conference
https://www.northjersey.com/story/sports/nfl/giants/2019/04/18/nfl-draft-2019-takeaways-ny-giants-gm-dave-gettleman/3504926002/

Traina Football Maven: Takeaways from Dave Gettleman�s Pre-draft Press Conference
https://footballmaven.io/nygiants/api/amp/nygiants/news/takeaways-from-dave-gettleman-s-pre-draft-press-conference-YUDBXKXz50WirFWpO7QaZw/#click=https://t.co/i2fmZhChp6

Traina Forbes.com: Gettleman: Giants Won't Force A Quarterback In Round One
https://www.forbes.com/sites/patriciatraina/2019/04/18/gettleman-giants-wont-force-a-quarterback-in-round-one/

Raanan ESPN NY: Giants target best players: 'Can't draft for need'
http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/26554571/giants-target-best-players-draft-need?

Dunleavy NJ.com: All of Giants GM Dave Gettleman�s NFL Draft QB double talk makes my brain hurt | Can you guess what he is thinking from these quotes?
https://www.nj.com/giants/2019/04/all-of-giants-gm-dave-gettlemans-nfl-draft-qb-double-talk-makes-my-brain-hurt-can-you-guess-what-he-is-thinking-from-these-quotes.html

Offense

Eisen Giants.com: Giants players optimistic about 2019 offense
https://www.giants.com/news/giants-optimistic-about-2019-offense-after-offseason-changes

QB

RV SNY: Giants sources weigh in on where team stands with potential trade target Josh Rosen

�The Giants' biggest concern about him, according to a team source, was his personality and how it would fit in New York. Though Rosen seemed to be well-liked by teammates, he has a tendency to come off as arrogant publicly. And after 15 relatively smooth years with Manning, there were worries inside the Giants organization about how Rosen would handle the press when, inevitably, things went wrong on the field.�

�It doesn't appear that Rosen's personality is disqualifying, though - especially if the price is right. The Giants, according to a source, have no interest in trading either of their first-round picks for Rosen and they believe their third-round pick (95th overall) won't be enough. The Giants do have a high second-round pick (37th), but they don't seem inclined to trade it. Gettleman wouldn't rule out trading picks in future years, which might be the best option if they decide to make a move...�

https://www.sny.tv/giants/news/does-josh-rosen-throw-a-wrench-in-giants-plans-at-the-nfl-draft/306392474

Lombardo NJ.com: NFL Draft 2019: Dwayne Haskins to Giants? | Did Ohio State QB reveal plans for No. 6 pick? (PHOTO)
https://www.nj.com/giants/2019/04/nfl-draft-2019-dwayne-haskins-to-giants-did-ohio-state-qb-reveal-plans-for-no-6-pick-photo.html

Braziller NYP: NFL draft expert: Daniel Jones is Giants� weird answer at quarterback
https://nypost.com/2019/04/18/nfl-draft-expert-daniel-jones-is-giants-weird-answer-at-quarterback/

Tom Rock (@TomRock_Newsday)
4/18/19, 6:24 PM
Daniel Jeremiah of & #8294;& #8234;nflnetwork& #8236;& #8297; has NYG taking Daniel Jones at No. 6, but really he just thinks they'll take a QB. "Who that QB is is a total guess at that pt in time," he said on a conf. call. "I've heard they like Haskins, I've heard they like Lock, I've heard they like Jones.

Tom Rock (@TomRock_Newsday)
4/18/19, 6:25 PM
More Jeremiah: "I just think if you have conviction in a guy and you want a QB, there's no such thing as taking him too early. You take him in the 1st round, you're putting your job into his hands anyway, you might as well guarantee you get the one that you want.

Tom Rock (@TomRock_Newsday)
4/18/19, 6:26 PM
"Lamar Jackson worked out well last year for the Ravens as their second first-round pick, but for the most part teams that have picked a quarterback with their second first-round pick, the Browns have done it three times, it never really worked out.

RB

B/R: Saquon Barkley Says He Can Be Best RB Ever | Take It There w/ Taylor Rooks S1E3 (Audio)
https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2831774-saquon-barkley-says-he-can-be-best-rb-ever-take-it-there-w-taylor-rooks-s1e3

Schwartz NYP: Saquon Barkley delivers gut punch in Sam Darnold debate
https://nypost.com/2019/04/18/saquon-barkley-delivers-gut-punch-in-sam-darnold-debate/

Stapleton The Record: Saquon Barkley: I'll continue to prove to NY Giants they drafted the right guy last year
https://amp.northjersey.com/amp/3512825002

WR

Manning PFF: More than just a slot receiver, Golden Tate is an underrated receiving weapon for the Giants' offense
https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pro-more-than-just-a-slot-receiver-golden-tate-is-an-underrated-receiving-weapon-for-the-giants-offense

Lombardo NJ.com: Will Giants be able to fit Golden Tate into their offense better than the Eagles could?
https://www.nj.com/giants/2019/04/will-giants-be-able-to-fit-golden-tate-into-their-offense-better-than-the-eagles-could.html

Brooks NFL.com: GIANTS WITHOUT OBJ: Can New York air it out without a WR1?

�The New York Giants are attempting to show the football world that you can win without a No. 1 receiver on the roster. The G-Men not only jettisoned Odell Beckham Jr., but they've made long-term commitments to a pair of WR2s to anchor a passing game led by an aging quarterback with a declining game.
Now, I'm certainly not dismissing the talents of Golden Tate or Sterling Shepard as effective playmakers on the perimeter, but neither is a No. 1 receiver in a traditional sense. As sub-6-foot pass catchers, Tate (5-foot-10, 197 pounds) and Shepard (5-foot-10, 203 pounds) are not physically imposing on the field and their inability to play "big boy" football certainly limits their effectiveness in the red zone. Additionally, they aren't necessarily speed demons who demand double-teams from opponents on a weekly basis (like Beckham did).
"In a perfect world, Tate and Shepard are No. 3s on a team," an NFC pro personnel director told me. "I don't know if they are special in any way, but they can be productive in certain roles."
Well alright then. Certainly not a ringing endorsement, but I believe both pass catchers can be effective if the Giants put them in positions to maximize their strengths.
For Shepard, that means placing him in the slot and allowing him to work against linebackers and sub-defenders between the hashes. As a crafty receiver with exceptional short-area quickness and burst, Shepard consistently creates separation on short and intermediate routes, turning quick tosses into first downs. Shepard's patience, timing and diverse releases allow him to win when he is able to escape the clutches of bump-and-run corners at the line. No. 87 is at his best when he can exploit voids in zone defenses, and his chemistry with Eli Manning shows up when he's been featured prominently in the game plan. Comparing Shepard's 11 career games without Beckham to his 32 games with OBJ, Shepard's targets (8.5 vs. 6.3), receptions (5.3 vs. 4.1) and receiving yards per game (67.8 vs. 48.1) all increased significantly without the Giants' former star on the field. Moreover, Shepard displayed a better synergy with his veteran quarterback when he moved up in the food chain.

Although things will certainly change with opponents more likely to focus on Shepard as one of the top options in the lineup, the 26-year-old could post solid numbers on the perimeter if the defense turns its attention to defending Saquon Barkley with more "plus-one" defenses (defense commits an additional defender to the box to stop the run). If Shepard can win his 1-on-1 battles on the perimeter with everyone focused on Barkley, he could top the 1,000-yard mark for the first time in his career and change the narrative surrounding his status as a WR2/WR3.
Tate is a rugged receiver with a blue-collar game built around his spectacular running skills as an ex-punt returner. He specializes in turning quicks and screens into big plays, particularly on jailbreak screens and WR bubbles on the perimeter. Tate not only has a knack for making the first defender miss, but he has a feel for finding creases within a maze of bodies on the field.
Looking at Tate's production since 2012, the one-time Pro Bowler leads the NFL in yards after the catch (3,621), positioned ahead of household names like Antonio Brown (3,560), Demaryius Thomas (3,264), Julio Jones (3,218) and Le'Veon Bell (2,727). Considering how each of the aforementioned pass catchers fit the bill as a WR1 or RB1/WR2, it's clear Tate has played a prominent role in the passing game. Whether that's as a manufactured WR1 or as a designated playmaker on a specific touch count, the Giants could certainly elevate him with careful scripting and scheming. We've seen offensive coordinators do this for years with a number of "system" players around the league, so it's a realistic consideration for Pat Shurmur this fall.
Without a transcendent star on the perimeter, the Giants will need their head coach to dig deeper into the playbook to make the team's passing game a viable threat with a pair of complementary players occupying key roles.�

https://amp.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001026304/article/what-makes-a-super-bowl-contender-plus-a-giant-wr-question?

Valentine BBV: 2019 NFL Draft preview: Where is the value for the Giants at wide receiver?
https://www.bigblueview.com/platform/amp/2019/4/18/18411297/2019-nfl-draft-preview-where-is-the-value-for-the-giants-at-wide-receiver

TE

Raanan ESPN NY: Evan Engram a key for Giants in replacing Odell Beckham Jr.
http://www.espn.com/blog/new-york/giants/post/_/id/58843/evan-engram-a-key-for-giants-in-replacing-odell-beckham-jr?

RT

Dan Schneier (@DanSchneierNFL)
4/18/19, 2:21 PM
Offensive Tackle prospect Greg Little. The Giants have met privately with him THREE times. OL coach Hal Hunter put him through specific RT drills at his Pro Day
People talk about him like he's Ereck Flowers, meanwhile, his production checked out via PFF while Flowers' never did

DT/DE

Dan Schneier (@DanSchneierNFL)
4/18/19, 2:30 PM
In this excellent piece by PFF Mike the questions why DeForest Buckner was a sure top-10 pick but Jerry Tillery is not w/ better production and athletic testing.
The Giants reportedly tried to get Buckner in OBJ trade talks with SF.
Tillery perfectly fits Bettchers scheme

Dan Schneier (@DanSchneierNFL)
4/18/19, 2:33 PM
I want it in writing: The two players I expect to be MUCH higher on the Giants draft board than consensus mocks are Jerry Tillery and Greg Little. If both are on the board at 37, it will be interesting/dependent on picks 6 and 17. Wouldn�t shock me if they went Tillery at 17.

LB

Crabbs The Draft Network: THREE TOP-40 TARGETS TO HELP REPLACE OLIVIER VERNON IN NEW YORK
https://thedraftnetwork.com/articles/three-top-40-targets-to-help-replace-olivier-vernon-in-new-york

CB

Schwartz NYP: NFL Draft: The Giants could look to snag a cornerback on Day 2
https://nypost.com/2019/04/14/nfl-draft-the-giants-could-look-to-snag-a-cornerback-on-day-2/amp/

SS

Dunleavy NJ.com: NFL Draft: Giants traded Titans 3 picks for Landon Collins in 2015 | What happened to those players? Still a good decision?
https://www.nj.com/giants/2019/04/nfl-draft-giants-traded-titans-3-picks-for-landon-collins-in-2015-what-happened-to-those-players-still-a-good-decision.html

NFL

Breer MMQB: How Beckham, Bell and Brown Impacted the Creation of the 2019 NFL Schedule
https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/04/18/2019-nfl-schedule-release-odell-beckham-jr-leveon-bell-antonio-brown

ARIZONA
Bickley 98.7 AZ Sports: Arizona Cardinals schedule offers early comfort zone for Kliff Kingsbury
http://arizonasports.com/story/1915766/arizona-cardinals-schedule-kliff-kingsbury-bickley/

AZ Central: Steve Keim: Arizona Cardinals haven't made a decision on what to do with the No. 1 pick
Steve Keim explains why the Cardinals haven't decided what they're going to do with the No. 1 pick in the NFL draft. (Video)
https://www.azcentral.com/videos/sports/nfl/cardinals/2019/04/16/steve-keim-arizona-cardinals-havent-made-decision-what-do-no-1-pick/3489314002/

Somers AZ Central: Cardinals quarterback Josh Rosen responds to the trade rumors with silence and work
https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/nfl/cardinals/2019/04/16/cardinals-josh-rosen-responds-trade-rumors-silence-and-work/3489790002/

Somers AZ Central: An open investigation into the clips of Josh Rosen � or lack thereof � in the Cardinals' videos
https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/nfl/cardinals/2019/04/18/why-josh-rosen-some-cardinals-videos-but-not-others/3510237002/

Corry CBS Sports: Agent's Take: Will the Cardinals trade Josh Rosen? Here's a look at the ins and outs of a potential deal
https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/agents-take-will-the-cardinals-trade-josh-rosen-heres-a-look-at-the-ins-and-outs-of-a-potential-deal/

McManaman AZ Central: Arizona Cardinals' additions could make Chandler Jones more dangerous to quarterbacks
https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/nfl/cardinals/2019/04/15/arizona-cardinals-additions-could-make-chandler-jones-more-dangerous/3477179002/

Fitzgerald AZ Republic: Cardinals safety Budda Baker easing into veteran role in third season
https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/nfl/cardinals/2019/04/14/arizona-cardinals-budda-baker-easing-into-veteran-role-3rd-season/3454180002/

ATLANTA
McFadden Falcons.com: Dan Quinn says adding Tyeler Davison could be �really impactful� for Falcons
https://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/dan-quinn-says-adding-tyeler-davison-could-be-really-impactful-for-falcons

BALTIMORE
Preston Baltimore Sun: Mike Preston: With key veterans gone, leadership takes a new turn for Ravens
https://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/ravens/bs-sp-preston-ravens-leadership-20190416-story.html

Preston Baltimore Sun: Ravens offensive tackle Orlando Brown Jr.'s potential is as big as his body
https://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/ravens/bs-sp-orlando-brown-20190417-story.html

Shaffer Baltimore Sun: Ravens linebacker Patrick Onwuasor taking advice from Earl Thomas on leading defense
https://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/ravens/bs-sp-ravens-notes-20190416-story.html

BUFFALO
Buffalo News: Is it possible the Bills have too many draft picks?
https://buffalonews.com/2019/04/16/buffalo-bills-nfl-draft-picks-2019/

Maiorana Rochester Democrat: Will Buffalo Bills grab a wide receiver in the second round? Here's who they could get
https://amp.democratandchronicle.com/amp/3483700002#click=https://t.co/emmnB88ut5

Carucci Buffalo News: Video: Breaking down Bills' draft needs -- Defensive tackle
https://buffalonews.com/2019/04/18/buffalo-bills-nfl-draft-needs-defensive-tackle/

Skurski Buffalo News: Tremaine Edmunds embraces expanded leadership role with Bills
https://buffalonews.com/2019/04/17/buffalo-bills-nfl-jay-skurski-tremaine-edmunds-nfl-draft/?

CAROLINA
Jacques Charlotte Observer: �Maximizing value�: Lessons Panthers GM Marty Hurney learned about NFL Draft trades
https://www.charlotteobserver.com/sports/nfl/carolina-panthers/article229379479.html

CHICAGO
Biggs Chicago Tribune: 5 positions to watch as the Bears approach the draft with limited resources � but few positions to fill
https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/ct-spt-cb-bears-nfl-draft-positions-ryan-pace-20190415-story.html

Kane Chicago Tribune: Bears tight end Zach Miller announces his retirement: 'I physically cannot give the game and our fans what they deserve'
https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/ct-spt-bears-zach-miller-retires-20190416-story.html

CLEVELAND
Cabot Cleveland Plain Dealer: The Browns must be ready for prime time early and the AFC North late: 2019 schedule takeaways
https://www.cleveland.com/expo/sports/g66l-2019/04/eddd28fa188048/the-browns-must-be-ready-for-prime-time-early-and-the-afc-north-late-2019-schedule-takeaways.html

Cabot Cleveland Plain Dealer: What would it take for the Browns to trade back into the first round? Hey, Mary Kay!
https://expo.cleveland.com/sports/g66l-2019/04/f2881c5ad0519/what-would-it-take-for-the-browns-to-trade-back-into-the-first-round-hey-mary-kay.html

Cabot Cleveland Plain Dealer: John Dorsey calls DT Jeffery Simmons �a phenomenal player,� might be a trade-up target
https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2019/04/john-dorsey-calls-dt-jeffery-simmons-a-phenomenal-player-might-be-a-trade-up-target.html

Patsko Cleveland Plain Dealer: NFL Draft 2019: Why you shouldn�t expect the Cleveland Browns to select a kicker or punter
https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2019/04/nfl-draft-2019-why-you-shouldnt-expect-the-cleveland-browns-to-select-a-kicker-or-punter.html

DALLAS
Hill Fort Worth Star Telegram: An early analysis of the 2019 schedule has the Cowboys finishing 11-5. Do you agree?
https://www.star-telegram.com/sports/nfl/dallas-cowboys/article229403999.html

Moore Dallas Morning News: Now that Russell Wilson�s record deal is set, here�s how much it will take the Cowboys to sign Dak Prescott
https://sportsday.dallasnews.com/dallas-cowboys/cowboys/2019/04/16/russell-wilsons-contract-extension-profound-impact-dak-prescott-cowboys

Machota Dallas Morning News: NFL draft series: Why Cowboys taking a DE�� even after offseason acquisitions�� would make a lot of sense
https://sportsday.dallasnews.com/dallas-cowboys/cowboys/2019/04/18/nfl-draft-series-bolstering-talented-defensive-end-group-makes-sense-cowboys

DENVER
O�Halloran Denver Post: Broncos 2019 schedule announced. Denver opens, closes season vs. Raiders
https://www.denverpost.com/2019/04/17/denver-broncos-2019-schedule/

O�Halloran Denver Post: NFL Journal: Elway doesn�t prioritize SEC players in draft�s premium rounds
https://www.denverpost.com/2019/04/13/denver-broncos-draft-elway-sec-players/

O�Halloran Denver Post: Broncos Briefs: Play-caller Rich Scangarello calls Joe Flacco �perfect fit� for offense
https://www.denverpost.com/2019/04/17/joe-flacco-perfect-fit-rich-scangarello-broncos/

Fredrickson Denver Post: Ja�Wuan James settling in quickly as Broncos right tackle
https://www.denverpost.com/2019/04/18/jawuan-james-broncos-right-tackle-minicamp/

O�Halloran Denver Post: Broncos GM John Elway could draft D-linemen again in early around to address expiring contracts
https://www.denverpost.com/2019/04/18/john-elway-broncos-nfl-draft-defensive-line/

O�Halloran Denver Post: Broncos Briefs: In first minicamp, Kareem Jackson works at safety
https://www.denverpost.com/2019/04/18/kareem-jackson-broncos-minicamp-safety/

Klis 9News Denver: BRONCOS NOTES: KAREEM JACKSON OPENS AT SAFETY LEAVING VOID AT CORNERBACK
https://www.9news.com/article/news/broncos-notes-kareem-jackson-opens-at-safety-leaving-void-at-cornerback/73-60d2612f-c984-478a-837c-1f3104d4e5d8

DETROIT
Birkett Detroit Free Press: Detroit Lions' Bob Quins explains why he'd like to trade down in NFL draft
https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/04/18/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-bob-quinn/3510859002/

Rogers Detroit News: Lions not making contingency plans for QB Matthew Stafford
https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/04/18/lions-not-making-contingency-plans-qb-matthew-stafford/3511788002/

Birkett Detroit Free Press: Iowa TE T.J. Hockenson has hometown � and several teams � excited for NFL draft
https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/04/17/nfl-draft-prospect-iowa-tj-hockenson/3495675002/

Monarrez Detroit Free Press: Here's why Detroit Lions would be making a mistake drafting TE at No. 8
https://amp.freep.com/amp/3513135002

Birkett Detroit Free Press: Detroit Lions' Graham Glasgow not thinking contract, out to be NFL's best center
https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/04/16/detroit-lions-graham-glasgow/3485092002/

GREEN BAY
Ryman GB Press Gazette: Good-weather Packers games please fans, businesses
https://www.greenbaypressgazette.com/story/news/2019/04/18/good-weather-green-bay-packers-games-please-fans-businesses/3476981002/

Dougherty Mil GS: A tight end at No. 12? Hockenson would be a big risk
https://www.packersnews.com/story/sports/nfl/packers/dougherty/2019/04/18/dougherty-tight-end-no-12-hockenson-would-big-risk/3509466002/

HOUSTON
Wilson Houston Chronicle: Texans GM Brian Gaine confident in chances of landing 4 future starters in draft
https://www.chron.com/sports/texans/article/Texans-GM-Brian-Gaine-confident-in-chances-of-13779223.php

Wilson Houston Chronicle: Texans GM Brian Gaine on D'Onta Foreman: 'He came back in good shape'
https://www.chron.com/sports/texans/article/Texans-Brian-Gaine-DOnta-Foreman-back-good-shape-13778097.php

McClain Houston Chronicle: 2019 NFL draft countdown: Scouting the offensive line
https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/texas-sports-nation/texans/article/2019-NFL-draft-countdown-Scouting-the-offensive-13768487.php

McClain Houston Chronicle: 2019 Texans offseason analysis: Defensive line
https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/texas-sports-nation/texans/article/2019-Texans-offseason-analysis-Defensive-line-13763551.php

Wilson Houston Chronicle: Unsigned Jadeveon Clowney not slated to attend Texans' offseason program
https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/texans/amp/Unsigned-Jadeveon-Clowney-not-slated-to-attend-13767078.php#click=https://t.co/Gl9NdKejF9

Chad Forbes (@NFLDraftBites)
4/16/19, 4:54 PM
League Wide Rumor Jadeveon Clowney is available. And if trade / extension were feasible, Agent would direct to sign Franchise Tender. Interest isn't there... Yet. One team lurking is Chiefs. Still expect Clowney delivers a pedestrian 2019 to Texans & preps for 2020 Free Agency

Wilson Houston Chronicle: 2019 Texans offseason analysis: Special teams
https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/texas-sports-nation/texans/article/2019-Texans-offseason-analysis-Special-teams-13768412.php

INDIANAPOLIS
Erickson Indianapolis Star: Draft preview: Defensive end remains a position of great need for Colts
https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/nfl/colts/2019/04/15/indianapolis-colts-justin-houston-defensive-end-chris-ballard-tyquan-lewis-kemoko-turay/3471712002/

Erickson Indianapolis Star: Draft preview: Darius Leonard, Anthony Walker give Colts promising tandem at linebacker
https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/nfl/colts/2019/04/17/2019-nfl-draft-darius-leonard-anthony-walker-indianapolis-colts-ben-burr-kirven-blake-cashman/3471639002/

Erickson Indianapolis Star: Colts draft preview: Cornerback is a critical need
https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/nfl/colts/2019/04/18/colts-draft-cornerback-pierre-desir-byron-murphy-deandre-baker-rock-ya-sin-kenny-moore/3471673002/

JACKSONVILLE
Heilman Florida Times Union: Jaguars owner Khan: 'Stadium has to be upgraded
https://www.jacksonville.com/sports/20190418/jaguars-owner-khan-stadium-has-to-be-upgraded

Eugene Frenette (@GeneFrenette)
4/18/19, 10:41 AM
Coughlin: "We're close to being 100 percent attendance. Frankly, they all should be here." Think there's a message in there somewhere.

Frenette Florida Times Union: Winning best way to stay out of Coughlin doghouse
https://www.jacksonville.com/sports/20190418/gene-frenette-winning-best-way-to-stay-out-of-coughlin-doghouse

KANSAS CITY
Pryor KC Star: Protected by free-agency moves, Chiefs search for balanced approach in 2019 draft strategy
https://amp.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/article229423084.html

LOS ANGELES CHARGERS
Manzano OC Register: Denzel Perryman present, Philip Rivers absent for Chargers� offseason workout
https://www.ocregister.com/2019/04/15/denzel-perryman-present-philip-rivers-absent-for-chargers-offseason-workout/amp/

Miller LA Times: Chargers draft analysis: Return of Hunter Henry will bolster receiving corps
https://www.latimes.com/sports/chargers/la-sp-chargers-nfl-draft-receivers-20190418-story.html

Miller LA Times: Chargers draft analysis: Defensive line dealing with a significant gap
https://www.latimes.com/sports/chargers/la-sp-chargers-nfl-draft-defensive-line-20190414-story.html

LOS ANGELES RAMS
Klein LA Times: Rams coach Sean McVay happy to train in what is essentially a trailer park
https://www.latimes.com/sports/rams/la-sp-rams-headquarters-20190414-story.html

Klein LA Times: Rams draft analysis: Receiving corps remains intact and Cooper Kupp�s return will help
https://www.latimes.com/sports/rams/la-sp-rams-nfl-draft-receivers-20190418-story.html

Klein LA Times: Rams draft analysis: Help wanted for interior of defensive line
https://www.latimes.com/sports/rams/la-sp-rams-nfl-draft-defensive-line-20190415-story.html

Klein LA Times: Rams draft analysis: Outside linebackers beefed up, but inside still needs help
https://www.latimes.com/sports/rams/la-sp-rams-nfl-draft-linebackers-20190413-story.html

Klein LA Times: Rams draft analysis: Defensive backfield is deep, but backups are needed
https://www.latimes.com/sports/rams/la-sp-rams-nfl-draft-defensive-backs-20190415-story.html

MIAMI
Salguero Miami Herald: Chris Grier in charge of 2019 Dolphins draft just as he was in the past. But this is different
https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/armando-salguero/article229374079.html

Habib Palm Beach Post: Defunct AAF 'did its job' for 7 shocked, grateful newcomers to Miami Dolphins
https://www.palmbeachpost.com/sports/20190418/defunct-aaf-did-its-job-for-7-shocked-grateful-newcomers-to-miami-dolphins

Salguero Miami Herald: Miami Dolphins definitely want a quarterback in this draft but role not yet certain
https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/armando-salguero/article229266684.html

Jackson Miami Herald: Dolphins bring in two edge rushers from same Power 5 school, dine with a top UM prospect
https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/barry-jackson/article229148449.html

Habib Palm Beach Post: Hidden gems of 2019 NFL Draft: Ex-Miami Dolphins WR Hartline one of many success stories
https://www.palmbeachpost.com/sports/20190412/hidden-gems-of-2019-nfl-draft-ex-miami-dolphins-wr-hartline-one-of-many-success-stories?

Jackson Miami Herald: Here�s where things stand between Dolphins and Xavien Howard as contract talks continue
https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/barry-jackson/article229098934.html

MINNESOTA
Tomasson Twincities.com: In wake of lucrative extension, Vikings� Adam Thielen wonders �what if?�
https://www.twincities.com/2019/04/16/in-wake-of-lucrative-extension-vikings-adam-thielen-wonders-what-if/

Walters Twincities.com: Vikings� new deal with Adam Thielen works for all
https://www.twincities.com/2019/04/13/charley-walters-vikings-new-deal-with-adam-thielen-works-for-all/amp/

Tomasson Twincities.com: Vikings to sign free agent wide receiver Jordan Taylor
https://www.twincities.com/2019/04/13/wide-receiver-jordan-taylor-to-sign-with-vikings/amp/

Cronin ESPN Minn: From jackpot to regret: How Anthony Barr spurned Jets to stay with Vikings
http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/26500050/how-anthony-barr-went-vikings-jets-vikings-24-hours?

NEW ENGLAND
Princiotti Boston Globe: A game by game look at the Patriots schedule
https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/patriots/2019/04/17/game-game-look-patriots-schedule/D2190qLOnFLlFUOanuCDtO/story.html

McKenna Patriotswire USA Today: It's just a matter of time: Bill Belichick will miraculously fill huge holes on 2019 roster
https://patriotswire.usatoday.com/2019/04/16/bill-belichick-patriots-roster-fill-holes/

Daniels Providence Journal: Stephon Gilmore gives scouting report on Demaryius Thomas
https://www.providencejournal.com/sports/20190418/stephon-gilmore-gives-scouting-report-on-demaryius-thomas

Duffy Boston Herald: No guarantees for Patriots (or any teams) when drafting wide receivers
https://www.bostonherald.com/2019/04/13/no-guarantees-for-patriots-or-any-teams-when-drafting-wide-receivers/amp/

Duffy Boston Herald: Patriots NFL Draft preview: Defensive line will be revamped in 2019
https://www.bostonherald.com/2019/04/17/patriots-nfl-draft-preview-defensive-line-will-be-revamped-in-2019/amp/

Duffy Boston Herald: Patriots NFL Draft preview: Secondary is a low priority
https://www.bostonherald.com/2019/04/15/patriots-nfl-draft-preview-secondary-is-a-low-priority/amp/

NEW ORLEANS
Katzenstein Nola.com: Saints should find someone they �really like� at No. 62: draft analyst
https://www.nola.com/saints/2019/04/saints-should-find-someone-they-really-like-at-no-62-draft-analyst.html?

Walker NO Advocate: Saints draft preview: Quarterback room filled with talent, so drafting another one unlikely
https://www.theadvocsports/saints/article_8b933c62-5e17-11e9-ate.com/new_orleans/a309-0336f2869762.amp.html

Johnson Nola.com: New Orleans Saints 2019 NFL draft outlook: Defensive tackles
https://www.nola.com/saints/2019/04/new-orleans-saints-2019-nfl-draft-outlook-defensive-tackles.html

Walker NO Advocate: Saints draft preview: Saints linebackers took giant strides, now could look to add depth
https://www.theadvocate.com/new_orleans/sports/saints/article_5b7df07c-5fc4-11e9-82c5-bfc12d7fd73a.amp.html

Walker NO Advocate: Saints draft preview: Special teams already special, so no need for Saints to seek help there
https://www.theadvocate.com/new_orleans/sports/saints/article_53b82a3e-5d52-11e9-b6fe-0b0934c3aeb6.amp.html

NEW YORK JETS
Mehta NYDN: Jets Mailbag: Can Gang Green nab Nick Bosa?
https://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/jets/ny-sports-nfl-jets-mailbag-draft-20190416-6zcyqnouibaytgq2wvocqwl2w4-story.html

OAKLAND
Bair NBC Bay Area: Why Raiders will play five straight games away from home in 2019 season
https://www.nbcsports.com/bayarea/raiders/why-raiders-will-play-five-straight-games-away-home-2019-season

Kawahara SF Chronicle: Raiders� Mike Mayock embraces the implications of first draft as GM
https://www.sfchronicle.com/raiders/amp/Raiders-Mike-Mayock-embraces-the-implications-13765767.php

Gehlken LV Review Journal: Raiders� money riding on timely move to lower-tax Nevada
https://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/raiders-nfl/raiders-money-riding-on-timely-move-to-lower-tax-nevada-1640812/amp/

Kawahara SF Chronicle: Raiders re-sign Carlson, Ateman, Murray
https://www.sfchronicle.com/raiders/amp/Raiders-re-sign-Carlson-Ateman-Murray-13769649.php

Gehlken LV Review Journal: Raiders expected to pass on quarterback in 1st round
https://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/raiders-nfl/raiders-expected-to-pass-on-quarterback-in-1st-round-1641589/

Gehlken LV Review Journal: Chris Warren wild card in Raiders� growing backfield
https://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/raiders-nfl/chris-warren-wild-card-in-raiders-growing-backfield-1642715/

McDonald SJ Mercury News: Don�t expect Antonio Brown�s social media silence to last
https://www.mercurynews.com/2019/04/11/why-antonio-browns-social-media-misstep-wont-hurt-his-brand/amp/

Gehlken LV Review Journal: Raiders might wait turn at wide receiver in NFL draft
https://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/raiders-nfl/raiders-might-wait-turn-at-wide-receiver-in-nfl-draft-1643683/amp/

Gehlken LV Review Journal: Raiders could take early plunge at tight end position
https://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/raiders-nfl/raiders-could-take-early-plunge-at-tight-end-position-1644452/amp/

White NBC Bay Area: NFL draft 2019: Why defensive line depth keeps Raiders' options open
https://www.nbcsports.com/bayarea/raiders/nfl-draft-2019-why-defensive-line-depth-keeps-raiders-options-open?

PHILADELPHIA
McLane Phil.com: Eagles� 2019 schedule: Super Bowl rematch with Patriots on Nov. 17
https://www.philly.com/eagles/eagles-schedule-2019-games-nfl-washington-redskins-atlanta-falcons-regular-season-20190417.html

Kempski Phillyvoice: Game-by-game Eagles 2019 win-loss predictions
https://www.phillyvoice.com/game-game-eagles-2019-win-loss-predictions/

Bowen Phil.com: The Eagles know drafting good NFL players is hard, so you need to hold onto them
https://www.philly.com/eagles/eagles-nfl-draft-history-chip-kelly-howie-roseman-andy-reid-doug-pederson-20190415.html

Berman Phil.com: NFL draft: Will the Eagles find a difference maker at No. 25? Howie Roseman hopes so.
https://www.philly.com/eagles/eagles-nfl-draft-needs-running-backs-defensive-line-howie-roseman-20190416.html

Zach Berman (@ZBerm)
4/18/19, 4:30 PM
Daniel Jeremiah: "I think that there's 15 to 16 players that everybody in the league kind of agrees are the top guys, and then after that once you get to 17, 18, all the way to 50 or 60, they're in all different order there." ...This is the big ? of the Eagles' draft night...

Zach Berman (@ZBerm)
4/18/19, 4:30 PM
If someone slips to No. 25, it's obviously the ideal. If a player slips to 18-23 area and the cutoff is steep, it makes sense to try to trade up. If the board is crowded at No. 25 and grades are similar for a number of players, Eagles would look to trade down and collect a pick

McLane Phil.com: Eagles� need for speed in today�s NFL could be found in draft

�There are various reasons for the decreasing use of the NFL fullback, but the speed of the modern game might be the most prominent explanation for why a dozen teams didn�t even fill the position last season. It�s not so much that fullbacks lack the necessary speed, but why have one on the field when there�s a quicker receiving option on the bench?

Speed has always been one of the fundamental components of successful football players and teams. But the changing nature of the game, with the way the league has limited defensive contact and the way offensive coaches have taken advantage, has placed a greater emphasis on finding sprinters and those who can cover them...�

https://www.philly.com/eagles/doug-pederson-andy-reid-darrell-henderson-bryce-love-eagles-speed-2019-nfl-draft-20190417.html

Bowen Phil.com: Maybe he�s just being cautious, but Eagles QB Carson Wentz says his back is still healing
https://www.philly.com/eagles/carson-wentz-recovery-update-eagles-organized-team-activities-otas-20190415.html

Kaye NJ.com: NFL rumors: Eagles re-sign Nate Sudfeld to restricted tender (UPDATE) | How does deal impact offseason program?
https://www.nj.com/eagles/2019/04/nfl-rumors-eagles-sign-nate-sudfeld-to-restricted-tender-how-does-deal-impact-offseason-program.html

Kempski Phillyvoice: Eagles 2019 NFL Draft preview: Offensive tackle
https://www.phillyvoice.com/eagles-2019-nfl-draft-preview-offensive-tackle/

Mullin Phillyvoice: Eagles center Jason Kelce played through quite a bit of pain last season
https://www.phillyvoice.com/eagles-injury-update-center-jason-kelce-played-through-pain-considered-retirement/amp/

Ford Phil.com: Eagles center Jason Kelce decides to return even though the pain will as well
https://www.philly.com/eagles/jason-kelce-eagles-retirement-injuries-decision-20190418.html

Domowitch Phil.com: NFL draft: Ben Fennell breaks down the edge rushers
https://www.philly.com/eagles/nfl-draft-edge-rushers-nick-bosa-ohio-state-brian-burns-riser-florida-state-weight-ronheen-bingham-arkansas-state-sleeper-sacks-20190418.html

Zach Berman (@ZBerm)
4/18/19, 4:48 PM
As for potential DTs at No. 25, D. Jeremiah mentioned Jerry Tillery, Dexter Lawrence, and an "interesting decision to make" if Jeffrey Simmons is on the board. Doesn't think there will be edge rusher value at that point.

Zach Berman (@ZBerm)
4/18/19, 10:58 AM
H. Roseman noted that Eagles knew even after a redshirt-type rookie season for Sidney Jones, they'd have four years of him before free agency. (1st season didn't count as accrued, so he'll be RFA after Yr 4.) Something to keep in mind with redshirt-type players next week

Bowen Phil.com: Eagles� Rodney McLeod says he�s on track to be ready for season following ACL tear recovery
https://www.philly.com/eagles/eagles-rodney-mcleod-injury-update-acl-tear-rehab-20190418.html

PITTSBURGH
Pittsburgh Post Gazette: Field Study: When the Steelers and other East Coast teams struggle out West, this might be the reason why
https://www.post-gazette.com/uncategorized/2019/04/15/field-study-podcast-sports-science-sleep-optimization-steelers-west-coast-record/stories/201904150062

Fittipaldo Pittsburgh Post Gazette: Trading up: Bill Cowher explains draft value charts, how Steelers pulled off monumental deals
https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/steelers/2019/04/18/nfl-draft-steelers-trading-up-bill-cowher-troy-polamalu/stories/201904180010

Fittipaldo Pittsburgh Post Gazette: Analysis: The Steelers have a kicking problem. Can Chris Boswell change that?
https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/steelers/2019/04/11/steelers-special-teams-Chris-Boswell-Jordan-Berry-Ryan-Switzer/stories/201904140028

SAN FRANCISCO
Branch SF Chronicle: 49ers will open regular season with consecutive road games
https://www.sfchronicle.com/49ers/article/49ers-will-open-regular-season-with-consecutive-13776241.php

Branch SF Chronicle: Schedule notes: 49ers to face four well-rested foes
https://www.sfgate.com/49ers/article/Schedule-notes-49ers-to-face-four-well-rested-13778802.php

Branch SF Chronicle: 49ers� Jimmy Garoppolo eagerly eyes long-awaited return to the field
https://www.sfgate.com/49ers/article/49ers-Garoppolo-eagerly-eyes-long-awaited-13775985.php

Biderman Sac Bee: Jerick McKinnon eager to get back into 49ers� backfield following offseason uncertainty
https://amp.sacbee.com/sports/nfl/san-francisco-49ers/article229419094.html

Branch SF Chronicle: Catch this: Host of top wide-receiver prospects visiting 49ers
https://www.sfchronicle.com/49ers/article/Catch-this-Host-of-pass-catchers-visiting-13772476.php

Maiocco NBC Bay Area: NFL draft: San Jose State's Josh Oliver likely to attend 49ers pro day

�He has reportedly drawn interest from Chicago, Jacksonville, Minnesota, Denver, Pittsburgh, Dallas and the New York Giants. Oliver is eligible to attend the 49ers� local pro day at Levi�s Stadium on April 17.�

https://www.nbcsports.com/bayarea/49ers/nfl-draft-san-jose-states-josh-oliver-likely-attend-49ers-pro-day?

Williams NBC Bay Area: Joe Staley Continues to Provide Elite Play for 49ers
https://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local/Staley-Continues-to-Provide-Elite-Play-for-49ers-508489011.html

Kawahara SF Chronicle: 49ers add tackle Daniel Brunskill
https://www.sfchronicle.com/49ers/amp/49ers-add-tackle-Daniel-Brunskill-13763106.php

Biderman Sac Bee: Why DeForest Buckner�s future is the biggest 49ers story ahead of 2019 NFL Draft
https://amp.sacbee.com/sports/nfl/san-francisco-49ers/article229285104.html

Williams NBC Bay Area: Niners Need Witherspoon to Bounce Back in 2019
https://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local/Niners-Need-Witherspoon-to-Bounce-Back-in-2019-508436161.html

Branch SF Chronicle: Report: 49ers� Robbie Gould absent at start of offseason program
https://www.sfchronicle.com/49ers/amp/Report-49ers-Gould-absent-at-start-of-13769179.php

SEATTLE
Condotta Seattle Times: GM John Schneider updates where things stand with Frank Clark, Bobby Wagner, Doug Baldwin
https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/seahawks/seahawks-john-schneider-gives-updates-on-where-things-stand-with-frank-clark-bobby-wagner-and-doug-baldwin/

Condotta Seattle Times: Inside Russell Wilson�s negotiations with the Seahawks: Why the no-trade clause was key
https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/seahawks/wilsons-agent-says-no-trade-clause-shows-how-much-quarterback-wanted-to-stay-in-seattle/?

Condotta Seattle Times: Russell Wilson says this is the contract that will allow him to finish his career in Seattle
https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/seahawks/russell-wilson-says-this-is-the-contract-that-will-allow-him-to-finish-his-career-in-seattle/

Clark The Ringer: The Reason Russell Wilson Is Worth Every Penny
https://www.theringer.com/nfl/2019/4/17/18411579/russell-wilson-seattle-seahawks-nfl-quarterback-contracts

Bell News Tribune: GM: Yes, Seahawks listening to trade offers for Frank Clark--as they do for anyone
https://amp.thenewstribune.com/sports/nfl/seattle-seahawks/article229449429.html

TAMPA BAY
Laine ESPN TB: Tampa Bay Buccaneers' schedule features early divisional games, grueling road test
http://www.espn.com/blog/tampa-bay-buccaneers/post/_/id/22387/tampa-bay-buccaneers-schedule-features-early-divisional-games-and-a-grueling-road-test?

Stroud TB Times: Bucs 2019 schedule: Early road stretch could be franchise�s toughest ever
https://www.tampabay.com/sports/bucs/2019/04/18/bucs-2019-schedule-early-road-stretch-could-be-franchises-toughest-ever/?

Breech CBS Sports: NFL schedule-maker wants 'another shot' at giving one team a more fair 2019 schedule
https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-schedule-maker-wants-another-shot-at-giving-one-team-a-more-fair-2019-schedule/

Stroud TB Times: Everything you wanted to know about the Bucs draft (translated)
https://www.tampabay.com/sports/bucs/2019/04/16/everything-you-wanted-to-know-about-the-bucs-draft-translated/

Stroud TB Times: Why Kyler Murray, and other quarterbacks, may hold key to Bucs draft
https://www.tampabay.com/sports/bucs/2019/04/15/why-kyler-murray-and-other-quarterbacks-may-hold-key-to-bucs-draft/

Stroud TB Times: In Chris Godwin the Bucs trust, but is he a 100-catch receiver?
https://www.tampabay.com/sports/bucs/2019/04/10/in-chris-godwin-the-bucs-trust-but-is-he-a-100-catch-receiver/?

Stroud TB Times: Bucs lost the D in their DNA
https://www.tampabay.com/sports/bucs/2019/04/12/bucs-lost-the-d-in-their-dna/

TB Times: Bucs still playing coy about Gerald McCoy
https://www.tampabay.com/sports/bucs/2019/04/16/bucs-still-playing-coy-about-gerald-mccoy/

Bassinger TB Times: 2019 NFL draft: Is FSU�s Brian Burns underrated? And should the Bucs draft him?
https://www.tampabay.com/blogs/bucs/2019/04/15/2019-nfl-draft-is-fsus-brian-burns-underrated-and-should-the-tampa-bay-buccaneers-draft-him/

TENNESSEE
Davenport ESPN Nashville: Tennessee Titans' schedule features only one prime-time game
http://www.espn.com/blog/tennessee-titans/post/_/id/28117/tennessee-titans-schedule-features-only-one-prime-time-game?

Wyatt Titans.com: Titans QB Marcus Mariota Gathers Receivers for Throwing Sessions in Nashville
https://www.titansonline.com/news/titans-qb-marcus-mariota-gathers-receivers-for-throwing-sessions-in-nashville

Davenport ESPN Nashville: Titans need to add more beef in the trenches in NFL draft
http://www.espn.com/blog/tennessee-titans/post/_/id/28105/titans-need-to-add-more-beef-in-the-trenches-in-nfl-draft?

WASHINGTON
Keim ESPN Washington: Washington Redskins face tough opening stretch in 2019 schedule
http://www.espn.com/blog/washington-redskins/post/_/id/38372/washington-redskins-face-tough-opening-stretch-in-2019-schedule?

Stackpole Redskins.com: Analytics And Technology Have Bolstered The Redskins' Scouting Philosophy
https://www.redskins.com/news/analytics-and-technology-have-bolstered-the-redskins-scouting-philosophy

Keim ESPN Washington: John is joined by former Redskins safety turned ESPN NFL analyst Matt Bowen. He breaks down all of the positions of need for the Skins as the draft approaches. Also, John discusses what the news of no suspension for Reuben Foster means as the team continues to build it's 2019 roster (Audio)

highlights: @ 4:50: what goes into breaking down 1 play on NFLMatchup? A TON. 12:40 -- Montez Sweat; 15:40 -- Brian Burns; 18:24 -- TJ Hockenson; 22:05 -- DK Metcalf/Marquise Brown; 29:20 -- Bowen's pick for Skins; 32:40 -- good stuff on Landon Collins; 41:00-- me on R. Foster

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/john-keim-report/id1455645619?i=1000434982556

Schreifels Redskins.com: As Workouts Begin, Case Keenum's Focus Is Adapting (Again) To New Surroundings
https://www.redskins.com/news/as-workouts-begin-case-keenum-s-focus-is-adapting-again-to-new-surroundings

Snider Washington Post: Should the Redskins go after a young QB or snag a player that will help them immediately?
https://www.washingtonpost.com/amphtml/express/2019/04/16/should-redskins-go-after-young-qb-or-snag-player-that-will-help-them-immediately/

Copeland Washington Post: Should the Redskins draft Marquise Brown or Greedy Williams in the first round?
https://www.washingtonpost.com/amphtml/sports/2019/04/15/should-redskins-draft-marquise-brown-or-greedy-williams-first-round/

Carpenter Washington Post: Redskins to sign Matt Ioannidis to a three-year contract extension
https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2019/04/18/redskins-sign-matt-ioannidis-three-year-contract-extension/

Copeland Washington Post: Redskins draft debate: Edge rusher Clelin Ferrell or linebacker Devin Bush?
https://www.washingtonpost.com/amphtml/sports/2019/04/18/redskins-draft-debate-edge-rusher-clelin-ferrell-or-linebacker-devin-bush/

XFL

Putterman Hartford Courant: Southern Connecticut State alum, former New York Giants coordinator Kevin Gilbride to lead new XFL team
https://www.courant.com/sports/hc-sp-kevin-gilbride-xfl-southern-connecticut-state-20190417-20190417-3i2gd3ru55cwdf76en5b5nc2im-story.html

AAF

McCann MMQB: The AAF�s Suspension Triggers a Number of Lawsuits
https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/04/15/aaf-alliance-of-american-football-suspended-litigation-legal-fallout

Colleges/Draft

Mays The Ringer: The Eight Most-Telling NFL Team Draft Tendencies

�New York Giants
Trait they covet: HOG MOLLIES
It takes a confident man to feel comfortable saying �hog mollies� every time he steps in front of a microphone, and Dave Gettleman is that man. Throughout his tenure with both the Panthers and the Giants, Gettleman has made no secret of the fact that he likes to build through his defensive line. In his first draft in Carolina, in 2013, he took two defensive tackles in the first two rounds (Star Lotulelei and Kawann Short). Three years later, with both players still on the roster, Gettleman drafted defensive tackle Vernon Butler with the 30th overall pick. Gettleman has overseen six drafts as a GM. His team has taken a defensive lineman in the first three rounds in five of those drafts.

Possible targets: All of them. The 2019 draft is Gettleman�s dream. Armed with the sixth overall pick, many of the best front-four players should still be available when the Giants are on the clock. Alabama defensive tackle Quinnen Williams would be the ultimate Gettleman selection, but if he�s already gone, any one of the pass rushers at the top of the draft (Josh Allen, Montez Sweat, Brian Burns, and others) could be in play. No one enjoys ignoring a QB in the top 10 more than Gettleman.�

https://www.theringer.com/platform/amp/2019/4/18/18447780/most-telling-nfl-team-draft-tendencies-patriots-vikings-steelers-giants

Rapoport Draftapalooza 2019: Dwayne Haskins, Josh Jacobs and Deebo Samuel

OSU QB Dwayne Haskins on RapSheet + Friends details meetings with Raiders, Giants, Skins, Broncos & MIA, tells how he learned from kobebryant & what drives him crazy. Plus Bama RB Josh Jacobs, SoCar WR Deebo Samuel, MikeGarafolo & TomPelissero: (Audio)
https://omny.fm/shows/rap-sheet-friends/ep-33-draftapalooza-2019-dwayne-haskins-josh-jacob

Big Board
Brandt NFL.com: Hot 150: Gil Brandt's top-ranked prospects for 2019 NFL Draft
https://amp.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001026448/article/hot-150-gil-brandts-topranked-prospects-for-2019-nfl-draft?

Brooks NFL.com: Bucky Brooks' top 5 2019 NFL Draft prospects by position 3.0
http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001025897/article/bucky-brooks-top-5-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-by-position-30

Farrar Touchdownwire USA Today: 2019 NFL draft: The top 50 prospects in this year's class
https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2019/04/17/the-wire-50-the-top-50-prospects-in-the-2019-draft-class/

Solak The Draft Network: FINAL BIG BOARD
https://thedraftnetwork.com/articles/solak--final-big-board

Top Prospects, Sleepers
Kelly The Ringer: One Play to Explain Each of the 2019 NFL Draft�s Top Prospects
https://www.theringer.com/2019/4/17/18411538/nfl-draft-guide-one-play-top-prospects

Prisco CBS Sports: Pete Prisco's 2019 NFL Draft Better-Than Team: 20 guys I like more than the scouts do
https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/pete-priscos-2019-nfl-draft-better-than-team-20-guys-i-like-more-than-the-scouts-do/amp/#click=https://t.co/KJKa2vTzpQ

Rang Football Maven: Diamonds in the Rough � Introducing my favorite sleepers for the 2019 NFL Draft
https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/diamonds-in-the-rough-introducing-my-favorite-sleepers-for-the-2019-nfl-draft-lSiBsOw4YkSxz7ElLZ4_nQ/

Renner PFF: PFF's most underrated prospects for the 2019 NFL Draft
https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-the-most-underrated-prospects-in-the-2019-nfl-draft

Mike Renner (@PFF_Mike)
4/19/19, 7:02 AM
My take on ranking the strength of each position group in the this draft:

1. DT
2. Edge
3. OT
4. WR
5. S
6. TE
7. CB
8. LB
9. RB
10. IOL
11. QB

Mike Renner (@PFF_Mike)
4/19/19, 7:06 AM
some notes:

- Can still get a very good IOL with some OT converts
- LB has massive gap between White/Bush and everyone else so you'll have to take them earlier
- WR/S/CB all have boatloads of talent in Day 2 range

Info
Fowler ESPN Pittsburgh: For NFL prospects, cost of getting drafted can surpass $100K
http://www.espn.com/blog/pittsburgh-steelers/post/_/id/30615/for-nfl-prospects-cost-of-getting-drafted-can-surpass-100k?

QB
Serritella Football Maven: 2019 NFL Draft Primer � QBs
https://footballmaven.io/nfldraftscout/news/serritella-2019-nfl-draft-primer-qbs-qkOsygmQ2kikpqVLoyYDEw/

Maske Washington Post: Last year's NFL draft QB class was celebrated. This year's? Not so much, other than Kyler Murray....
https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2019/04/15/after-kyler-murray-this-years-quarterback-draft-class-offers-lots-uncertainty/

Klassen FB Outsiders: I charted the top 10 QBs from this draft class. 300+ attempts for all, 400+ for most.
Weighted accuracy, passing distribution, accuracy to each area, situational stats, personnel, etc etc
Here is a sortable spreadsheet for y'all. There's a lot here.
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1sDWpPsuNuVZQony7lpgjndJk-xSVyWlAG2OXCafAM20/htmlview

La Canfora CBS Sports: NFL insider notes: Where QBs will get picked, two who could fall and more draft rumors

�The highest you'll hear Haskins going is the Giants at sixth overall, but if you made me guess today I'd have the Giants waiting until later in the weekend to dabble with a quarterback. I think they pass at No. 6, and I don't see Haskins there at 17.

This could become a spot for Daniel Jones. The Duke QB is a polarizing prospect who hasn't exactly wowed everyone he's been around. But he has good size and a David Cutcliffe pedigree and I continue to hear the Patriots have taken a shine to him. Is he their pick at 32? I'm not so sure. Maybe the Patriots would move up a bit for him, or someone else does.

If the Giants do pass on QBs next Thursday, keep an eye on them and Carolina in regards to West Virginia quarterback Will Grier. Both those teams have spent a lot of time on him, I'm told, and Giants head coach Pat Shurmur and assistant GM Kevin Abrams were at his pro day...�

https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-insider-notes-where-qbs-will-get-picked-two-who-could-fall-and-more-draft-rumors/

Murray
Klemko MMQB: What Does Kyler Murray Really Want?
The Heisman-winning Oklahoma quarterback has scouts across two sports scratching their heads over where his commitment truly lies�and his public expressions over the past year have only muddied the picture. For the 2019 draft�s most intriguing prospect (and presumptive No. 1 pick), are there clues to his future in his father�s past?
https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/04/16/kyler-murray-2019-draft-father-kevin-baseball-football-decision-oakland

Edholm Yahoo Sports: Yahoo Sports' top 2019 NFL draft prospects, No. 10: Oklahoma QB Kyler Murray
https://sports.yahoo.com/yahoo-sports-top-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-no-10-oklahoma-qb-kyler-murray-184327411.html

Haskins
Kahler MMQB: Why Dwayne Haskins Won't Attend the NFL Draft
https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/04/18/dwayne-haskins-draft-invitation-nashville-stock

Lock
Seifert ESPN: How Drew Lock's Missouri career prepped him to lead an NFL offense
http://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2019/story/_/id/26544551/how-drew-lock-missouri-career-prepped-lead-nfl-offense?

Grier
Schofield RSP: Mark Schofield�s RSP Scouting Lens: QB Will Grier (West Virginia) and the Dangers of Assumption
https://mattwaldmanrsp.com/2019/04/15/mark-schofields-rsp-scouting-lens-qb-will-grier-west-virginia-and-the-dangers-of-assumption/

Jackson
Miller B/R: �Boom or Bust': Why Tyree Jackson Is the Draft's Most Intriguing QB Prospect
https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2831483-boom-or-bust-why-tyree-jackson-is-the-drafts-most-intriguing-qb-prospect

Rypien
Schofield BBV: Scouting the Quarterbacks: What kind of NFL prospect is Brett Rypien?
https://www.bigblueview.com/2019/4/14/18309104/scouting-the-quarterbacks-what-kind-of-nfl-prospect-is-brett-rypien-nfl-draft-ny-giants

Stidham
Ron Jaworski (@JawsCEOQB)
4/14/19, 6:03 PM
Been studying the QBs for this years draft.
Pretty weak class!
But one guy that keeps impressing me is Jarrett Stidham out of Auburn

Chris B. Brown (@smartfootball)
4/14/19, 7:12 PM
Interesting counterfactual with Stidham is he was committed to Kingsbury at Texas Tech, but then switched late to Baylor. He left Baylor for Auburn after things imploded; curious if his development would have been different at TxTech... and if Kliff would have kept his job there

McSorley
Jones NFL.com: McSorley's a warrior and a winner, but is he an NFL QB?
https://amp.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001027031/article/trace-mcsorleys-a-warrior-and-a-winner-but-is-he-an-nfl-qb?

2020/2021
Crawford 247 Sports: Tua Tagovailoa on NFL's early-entry rules, his decision
https://247sports.com/college/alabama/Article/Alabama-Crimson-Tide-football-Tua-Tagovailoa-NFL-Draft-131161257/

Sherman The Ringer: Tua Tagovailoa and Trevor Lawrence Are Ready for the NFL. Why Isn�t the NFL Ready for Them?
https://www.theringer.com/nfl/2019/4/18/18412209/tua-tagovailoa-trevor-lawrence-draft-quarterbacks-trend

WR
MMQB: 2019 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Wide Receivers
https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/04/16/draft-position-rankings-wide-receivers-wr-dk-metcalf-marquise-brown

Evan Silva (@evansilva)
4/14/19, 7:15 PM
Updated Top 10 draft-eligible WR rankings:

1. Hakeem Butler
2. Marquise Brown
3. A.J. Brown
4. N'Keal Harry
5. D.J. Metcalf
6. Deebo Samuel
7. Miles Boykin
8. Andy Isabella
9. Parris Campbell
10. Emanuel Hall

Marquise Brown
Zack Rosenblatt (@ZackBlatt)
4/18/19, 1:13 PM
Daniel Jeremiah said he�s spoken to teams who are �100% confident� that Marquise Brown�s injury isn�t a concern and that�ll he return to form.

DJ had the Eagles picking Brown first in his latest mock

Metcalf
Pflum BBV: Ole Miss WR D.K. Metcalf presents a rare skillset for the right team
https://www.bigblueview.com/platform/amp/2019/4/13/18309239/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-profile-d-k-metcalf-wr-ole-miss-scouting-report-ny-giants#click=https://t.co/qSN98YlDBP

Davis
Page TB Times: Sweet 16? Ryan Davis likely to become latest NFL draft pick from Lakewood
https://www.tampabay.com/sports/high-schools/2019/04/18/sweet-16-ryan-davis-likely-to-become-latest-nfl-draft-pick-from-lakewood/

Humphrey
Davison Fort Worth Star Telegram: Did Texas WR Lil�Jordan Humphrey make right decision bolting for NFL early?
https://amp.star-telegram.com/sports/college/article229371764.html

TE
Sikkema The Draft Network: BUILDING THE PERFECT TIGHT END FROM 2019 NFL DRAFT PROSPECTS
https://thedraftnetwork.com/articles/building-the-perfect-tight-end-from-2019-nfl-draft-prospects

MMQB: 2019 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Tight Ends
https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/04/16/draft-position-rankings-tight-ends-hockenson-fant-knox-irv-smith

T
Williams
Edholm Yahoo Sports: Yahoo Sports' top 2019 NFL draft prospects, No. 12: Alabama OL Jonah Williams
https://sports.yahoo.com/yahoo-sports-top-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-no-12-alabama-ol-jonah-williams-202448936.html

Risner
Keeler Denver Post: Dalton Risner has the angels, and the wind, at his back as NFL draft looms
https://www.denverpost.com/2019/04/14/dalton-risner-denver-broncos-kansas-state-wildcats-nfl-draft-preview/

DL
MMQB: 2019 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Defensive Line and Edge
https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/04/15/draft-position-rankings-defensive-line-edge-nick-bosa

DE
Bosa
Breer MMQB: Nick Bosa: Domination from Day One
https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/04/18/nick-bosa-2019-draft-groin-surgery-recovery-john-bosa-nick-bosa?

Pflum BBV: Nick Bosa might be the best EDGE in this draft, but he probably won�t be a Giant
https://www.bigblueview.com/platform/amp/2019/4/18/18485629/2019-nfl-draft-prospect-profile-nick-bosa-edge-ohio-state-scouting-report-ny-giants

Josh Allen
Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/15/19, 2:54 PM
Josh Allen Thought:
Get the criticism of his lack of pass rush moves on tape.... but curious if this is context is out there. Stoops' D ran 3 down w/JA off the ball a LOT and he was reserved as a pass rusher for really 3rd down. His speed rush was almost more potent in some way

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/15/19, 2:57 PM
This contrasts STARKLY with guys like Brian Burns who although dropped in coverage, was predominantly rushing against OT's from the edge in a 3 and 4 pt stance. U have to watch a lot more JA tape to actually see enough pass rushing reps. In coverage his AA as out of contro

Omenihu
Davison Fort Worth Star Telegram: How Texas DE Charles Omenihu�s 7-foot wingspan is boosting his NFL Draft stock
https://amp.star-telegram.com/sports/college/article229414874.html

Ferrell
Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/19/19, 8:02 AM
Going from Clemson 's Ferrell to TCU's edge rushers Collier and Banogu provides clear distinctions between 1st rd and day 2/3 picks. When trying to win on the low side, Ferrell's UoH, swim and play strength are much more evolved/efficient... eye opening vs tier 1 OL'

DT/DE
Oliver
Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/15/19, 10:13 AM
Quick Ed Oliver Thread:
Obvi this guy is incredibly explosive and has been on NFL team's radar for a long time. Will try to make these points differentiated and bring up angles not being discussed. This dude was a menace vs Interior OL with Speed, Power, and Pad Level

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/15/19, 10:13 AM
Fast and Smooth Get Off (+)
Rare combo of explosiveness and balance at the snap will put most OL in a tough spot. Keeps good pad level early allowing him to get into OL�s chest with ease. Think best vs vert set, but its risky to jump him as well

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/15/19, 10:13 AM
Outside Zone Killer(+)
- As 3t he will be a menace for G/T�s when play side but also backside for the T to cut off. His motor/speed is at a near elite level. Could even see teams in the RZ reading him in mid-line as a better option than blocking him.

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/15/19, 10:13 AM
Moves(++)
Slip/Mini Club to Speed to Rip: most frequently used and think from 0t to 2t this will be very effect with his get off
Club to Swim: insanely scary to watch when executed violently. Against undersized OL, would say this is deadly.

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/15/19, 10:13 AM
Momentum(+)
Many ex's within sequences and multiple series where his explosiveness begets more disruption play after play. For NFL transition, think specific 1 gap roles within a 2-line rotation will allow this to flash the most. He will def benefit from not facing 80 snap O's

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/15/19, 10:13 AM
Vs Down Blocks (-)
Mass, length, play strength, and body control consistency make him struggle vs down and combo blocks. NFL Example: Boun Sweep as play side 3t. Needs to show consistency playing long to keep vision to enhance play speed

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/15/19, 10:13 AM
Body Control(-)
Sounds weird, but vs. run & pass, upper half often is too stiff not reducing blocking surface or dipping as engagement begins. Believe if this improves his elite play to defeat interior OL will be very consistent

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/15/19, 10:13 AM
Body Control (2)(-)
Had absurd amount of TFLs, but needs next level ability coming out of an engagement into pursuit. Too often balance/orientation off. Saw it in the pass rush too, after a defeat he at times struggled to finish (find the ball)

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/15/19, 10:13 AM
Use of Hands (-)
Ties into above but consistently led w/shoulder into blocker reducing vision and thus play speed. Upper body strength is clearly very good, basically must use more, especially from good positions early in down

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/15/19, 10:13 AM
Stunts (-)
Very raw. Will need more efficient movement at next level as both Driver and Looper. As Driver in T-E, needs discipline to gain/keep outside leverage for contain (allowed QB to make plays out of the pocket). This a common hurdle for rookie DL

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/15/19, 10:13 AM
- Usage Note
Know there was obvi a lot of negative chatter on his usage as Shade in Tite Front. Better question is to ask/understand why he was there vs. 4i's in their base. Think this experience helps him, and do NOT think moving him outside will lead to quick bump in production

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/15/19, 10:13 AM
Overall, think Oliver is gonna go mid-high 1st round, and transition as a key role player in sub-package pass rush( 3-tech out to 6-tech). Think he becomes a starter in 4 down front as 3-tech over time, or in weakside 3-tech in 3-4(as play strength/consistency/mass increases)
Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/17/19, 4:12 PM
Watching Clemson D, funny the criticism of Houston's use of Oliver as 0t in the tite front, but then in early downs seeing Venebles use Wilkins in a very similar manner (4-0-4 front). If the 0t can force an early cutback against a heavy ZBS team, its a win

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/17/19, 4:14 PM
Know that Wilkins and Oliver are very different size/frame wise but both can be ZBS (particularly OZ) killers from a 2t to 0t. Against spread teams I think it unlocks more ways to defend, and yes u wont see as much at the NFL level but the experience will help both players

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/15/19, 10:25 AM
& #8294;& #8234;i saw a plan on a lot of snaps, but sure the consistency and counter was not there. I do wanna say I think theres no question to his effort. But like u said, u see rushes where hes resorting to a bull rush when other counters will work better, espec in NFL

Gary
Bair NBC Bay Area: How Rashan Gary became a football player, a brand and soon an NFL draftee
https://www.nbcsports.com/bayarea/raiders/how-rashan-gary-became-football-player-brand-and-soon-nfl-draftee

A question about RGary...do you believe he can thrive as an OLB or DE in 3-4 defense?
Greg Gabriel (@greggabe)
4/14/19, 11:28 AM
He�s not an OLB. I believe his best position will be as a 3-Tech in a 4-man front. Then as a 5-Tech or possibly a left end

Chris Pflum (@RaptormkII)
4/14/19, 11:42 AM
This was my take as well. But if I'm looking at a 5/3T, then ild rather have Z.Allen out of BC, Omenihu out of Texas, Trysten Hill out of UCF, or Cominsky out of COC

Wilkins
Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/18/19, 10:10 AM
Went back to 4 games of Clemson... DT Wilkins at 315 lbs projects as a 1 gapping 3t at next level but has a wide range of traits that can attack the Quick Game via disruption to pocket/pass lanes.He can start right away, surprised theres not more chatter to

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/18/19, 10:10 AM
Get Off (+)
Smooth - Fast, frequently asked to slant/long stick from 0/2t. At his best getting upfield or shuffling laterally along LOS (+contact balance, vision). When timed right couples w/ solid UoH, w/right leverage can collapse pocket quickly

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/18/19, 10:10 AM
Bull Rush w/Leverage (+)
Gains ground in 1v1�s w/elite comp (NC State Bradbury)
Vs ND, not on stat sheet but a real headache for interior OL, forced QB off of spot even in quick 3 step drops. Incredibly valuable at next level, w/more work can be like Grady Jarrett

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/18/19, 10:10 AM
FBI
Able to process quickly, adjusting to screens where his athleticism can defeat/avoid OL blocks in space. Venebles shifted his DL constantly late, played fast even w/adjustments. Lateral instincts in tight places take him to ball carrier

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/18/19, 10:10 AM
Refinement as Driver/Looper in Stunts (+)
As Driver in T-E stunts able to gain contain rush and even beat OT�s w/speed/power on edge. Able to corner at 9.5-10 yards, shows best body control. As Looper in E-T stunt, shows savvy in timing of E�s pick, fluidly changes speeds

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/18/19, 10:10 AM
COD (+)
Change of Direction very good/elite at times. Able to disengage from fits to find correct pursuit angles. Looks like hes 295-300 w/his light feet, and basketball background. Relentless motor, as part of 2 line DL think it becomes elite

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/18/19, 10:10 AM
Use of Hands
Heavy when coupled with power allow him to use Rip move from advantageous position. Does not consistently extend arms though, or execute counter moves when stymied. Excellent at competing at QB�s launch point so think improvement here key for next level production

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/18/19, 10:10 AM
Vs Combo Blocks(-)
Shows motor but can lose ground and even get pancaked, especially if asked to 2-gap vs elite competition. Needs work on counter moves/body control wiggle to occupy OL & prevent climb to 2nd tier. Needs sand in pants.

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/18/19, 10:10 AM
Vs Combo Blocks (-) (2)
Even saw this at times as 3t play side reach blocks, not consistently defeating them even from neutral positions. Believe this is partially due to tempo/# of plays at CFB level.

Nick Turchyn (@Tmanic21)
4/18/19, 10:10 AM
Overall, think he can start right away for most teams as 3-tech in either 3-4/4-3 (1 gap). #Giants fit would be an immediate upgrade to their interior pass rush & flexibility in Bear fronts (0 or 3t). Weakness vs Combos. High floor but also high ceiling player

LB
White
Sikkema The Draft Network: 5-PLAY PROSPECT: LSU LB DEVIN WHITE
https://thedraftnetwork.com/articles/5-play-prospect--lsu-lb-devin-white

Edholm Tahoo Sports: Yahoo Sports' top 2019 NFL draft prospects, No. 11: LSU LB Devin White
https://sports.yahoo.com/yahoo-sports-top-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-no-11-lsu-lb-devin-white-145417859.html

Bush
Birkett Detroit Free Press: Devin Bush on cusp of NFL with a style all his own: 'You won't break' him
https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/04/19/devin-bush-2019-nfl-draft-michigan-football/3496895002/

Watson UDFA
Schad USA Today: After serving two years in the Air Force, Ryan Watson is back to chasing his NFL dream
https://amp.usatoday.com/amp/3470669002#click=https://t.co/Aj0ZQkYVjr

DB
MMQB: 2019 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Defensive Backs
https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/04/17/draft-position-rankings-defensive-backs-cornerbacks-safeties

CB
Murphy
Edholm Yahoo Sports: Yahoo Sports' top 2019 NFL draft prospects, No. 13: Washington CB Byron Murphy
https://sports.yahoo.com/yahoo-sports-top-2019-nfl-draft-prospects-no-13-washington-cb-byron-murphy-145648966.html

Pflum BBV: Washington CB Byron Murphy could help solidify the Giants� secondary
https://www.bigblueview.com/platform/prospect-profile-byron-murphy-cb-amp/2019/4/14/18310322/2019-nfl-draft-washington-scouting-report-ny-giants#click=https://t.co/bRQLUxFWDf

S
Savage
Markus Baltimore Sun: With impressive senior year and NFL combine, Maryland's Darnell Savage Jr. has moved up draft boards
https://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/terps/bs-sp-maryland-football-darnell-savage-nfl-draft-0419-story.html

History

Farrar Touchdownwire USA Today: The greatest draft steal for every NFL team

�New York Giants: LB Harry Carson
Lawrence Taylor was the epicenter of Bill Parcells� dominant Giants defense in the 1980s, but the second overall pick in the 1981 draft wasn�t the only star. Carson didn�t hit that roster with nearly the buzz � he was taken with the 105th overall pick in the fourth round of the 1976 draft � but the nine-time Pro Bowler was as good an inside linebacker as there was in his era.�

https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2019/04/18/the-greatest-draft-steal-for-every-nfl-team/

Turney PFJ: The Greatest Punters of All-Time (Post WW II)

�16. Brad Maynard, 1998-11

Did yeoman's work, not a "boomer" as Dr. Z called some punters, but good at placement and the things we outlined. He also, like Hekker, was very good at fake punts and kicks (he held for placements), he was 5-of-8 career passes for 94 yards and two touchdowns and no picks.

20. Jeff Feagles, 1988-09

Like many, namely Scifres and Maynard, Feagles "got it" and punted to the key statistics, however we see that he was blocked 12 times and wonder what was going on. Was it ALWAYS the protection?

He was All-AFC in 1995 and a Pro Bowler in 2008�14 years apart. Impressive.

26. Dave Jennings, 1974-87

Early in his career, especially, he sure gave up a lot of return yards but given the state of the Giants in the mid-1970s but in this case it likely was the coverage and not him outkicking the coverage. he would get kicks blocked in bunches, then go a while without one.�

He was a three-time All-Pro and two-time Second-team All-Pro. He was second in net punting in 1975 (unofficially) and in 1979, first in 1980 and is one of Bill Belichick's favorites.

31. Sean Landeta, 1985-05

Landeta was First-team All-Decade of the 1980s and Second-team for the 1990s. He deserved neither. Yes, he had some good years he was third in net punting in 1986 and first in 1989 and a couple more in the top five but that was it.�

What is bothersome is not the six blocked punts, that is within norms it's the 17 punts returned for touchdowns against him. We have not checked everyone but the highest we've found by anyone else is ten.�

other notables
Don Chandler, 1956-67
Good punter, good kicker, not really great at both, but certainly above the curve.
Steve Weatherford, 2006-15

http://nflfootballjournal.blogspot.com/2019/04/the-greatest-punters-of-all-time-post.html

Vito Stellino (@vitostellino)
4/17/19, 5:38 PM
When Preston Pearson went to Dallas, the Steelers didn't have a single player who had ever played for another team. And Pearson was only Cowboy who had ever played for another team. Never have a Super Bowl like that again in the free agency era

Ramsey GB Press Gazette: David Ramsey: Family, friends say goodbye to football great Forrest Gregg
https://gazette.com/news/david-ramsey-family-friends-say-goodbye-to-football-great-forrest/article_420d6714-617a-11e9-99bb-47effc69dcb3.html

Giants Birthdays 4-19

Michael Barrow MLB FA-CAR 2000 NYG 2000-2003 4-19-1970

Rocky Bernard LDT/RDT FA-SEA 2009 NYG 2009-2012 4-19-1979

Phil Cancik LB UDFA-Northern Arizona 1980 NYG 1980 4-19-1957

Mario Edwards DE W-OAK 2018 NYG 2018 4-19-1994

Larry Flowers S W-TB 1981 NYG 1981-1985 4-19-1958

Michael Hunter CB UDFA-Oklahoma State 2016 W-HOU 2019 NYG 2016-2017 4-19-1993

In Memoriam

Alex Webster HB/FB FA-Montreal CFL 1955 NYG 1955-1964 Born 4-19-1931 Died 3-03-2012

Giants Chronicles: Giants Chronicles: Alex Webster
A look back at the playing and coaching career of Giants Great Alex Webster (1931-2012)
https://www.giants.com/video/giants-chronicles-alex-webster-7005062

NYT: Remembering Alex Webster, Giants Star and Coach
BY ANDY BARALL MARCH 5, 2012

�Born and raised in Kearny, N.J., Webster starred as a single-wing tailback, defensive back and kick returner at North Carolina State (then called State College). He was selected by the Washington Redskins in the 11th round of the 1953 draft (123rd over all). Even though he had been an outstanding runner in college, the Redskins tried him exclusively in the secondary. Webster lasted until the final cut. Not fast enough to play safety, they said.
Now married, and with a child on the way, Webster returned to Kearny. His friends urged him not to give up on his football career. The coach of the Alouettes, Peahead Walker, remembered Webster from competing against North Carolina State when he was the head coach at Wake Forest. Webster wrote to Walker to ask for a tryout. He made the team and in his two years in Montreal he was recognized as one of the best backs in the C.F.L. In 1954 he helped lead the Alouettes to the Grey Cup final. In 1955, Webster came home.
At 6 feet 3 inches and about 225 pounds, Webster was big, strong and tough. He had a reputation as a barroom brawler and he took that attitude with him to the field. Webster didn�t have great speed, but he had an explosive first step out of his stance that enabled him to hit the hole quickly. He was a slashing type of runner who enjoyed punishing defenders. Webster�s reliable hands and good football intelligence made him an effective receiver out of the backfield. He had a good feel for pass coverage.
Over his 10-year career in New York (1955-1964), Webster gained 4,638 yards rushing on 1,196 carries and had an additional 2,679 yards receiving on 240 catches. He scored 39 rushing touchdowns and 17 receiving touchdowns. Webster was named to the Pro Bowl in 1958 and 1961 and he was inducted into the Giants� Ring of Honor last December.
Webster joined the Giants before they converted to a two wide receiver offense. In the �50s, he was usually at right halfback in a four-man backfield along with Frank Gifford at left halfback, Mel Triplett at fullback and either Charlie Conerly or Don Heinrich at quarterback. All of the backs had to run, catch and block for one another.
By the early �60s, the two wide receiver, one tight end (usually in the attached position, next to the offensive tackle), two running back personnel package had become standard. With Y.A. Tittle at quarterback, Del Shofner at split end, Joe Walton at tight end and Gifford at flanker, Webster now became the starting fullback.
In his rookie year, Webster led the Giants in rushing with 634 yards on 128 carries and 5 touchdowns in a 12-game schedule. The next year, in 1956, he had 694 yards rushing and 197 yards receiving and scored 10 touchdowns as the Giants won the Eastern Division, finishing 8-3-1. In the championship game against the Bears at Yankee Stadium, Webster rushed 12 times for just 27 yards but he scored two touchdowns in the second quarter as New York broke the game wide open. The Giants led, 34-7, at the half and went on to win, 47-7. It was their first title since 1938, and their last until Super Bowl 31 thirty years later.
In those years, the Giants� offensive coach was Vince Lombardi and their defensive coach was Tom Landry. Today they would be called coordinators. �Vince would yell at me, and I must say I was scared of him�, Webster said recently. �But then, I know I was lazy at times, and Lombardi knew what he was doing. He was a great coach � the best I ever had � and I owe a lot to him.� (Cavanaugh)
That was also a time when many coaches wore jackets and ties on the sidelines. They wouldn�t hesitate to light up a cigarette, either. Some of the players smoked as well, in the locker room before the game or at halftime. According to Gifford, Webster didn�t bother to wait. �Alex would smoke on the bench, during games�, he remembered. �You�d see the smoke coming out from under the hood of his cape.� (Frank Gifford, with Peter Richmond, �The Glory Game�, Harper, 2008) Webster was a heavy smoker throughout most of his adult life.
After winning the N.F.L. championship in 1956, the Giants won five of the next seven Eastern Division titles, but lost the championship game each time. As the years went by, the young talent was not coming along to replace New York�s aging stars. Inevitably, the Giants collapsed, finishing 2-10-2 in 1964. It would be a long time in the football wilderness.
Webster retired after that 1964 season. He was an assistant for two years before being named the head coach when Allie Sherman was fired after the final preseason game in 1969. The Giants were 29-40-1 in Webster�s five years as coach. His two winning seasons, 9-5 in 1970 and 8-6 in 1972, were the only years the Giants finished over .500 between 1964 and 1981...�

https://fifthdown.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/03/05/remembering-alex-webster-giants-star-and-coach/

Giants Birthdays 6-18

Pete Gogolak PK FA-BUF 1966 NYG 1966-1974 6-18-1942

Williams ESPN: How European soccer-style kickers started a revolution 50 years ago
(2016)

�When Pete Gogolak came to America from Hungary in the 1950s, he was crushed to discover that nobody played soccer at his high school in upstate New York.
Instead, the kids played a purely American game he had never seen. When he gave it a shot, he felt strange in shoulder pads and a helmet. The first few times he kicked the odd-shaped ball, he could barely get it airborne.
"I didn't know what the hell was going on," he says with a laugh.
As Gogolak, 74, recalls his 11-year career as a professional place-kicker, other moments tumble from his memory. There was the time he hit the top of a Coke bottle protruding from the dirt while attempting a field goal at Buffalo's War Memorial Stadium. There was the 57-yard kick he made in his first pro game, an exhibition against the New York Jets in 1964 at a nearly empty stadium in Tampa, Florida. There was the first time he and his younger brother kicked against each other in a pro game in 1966 -- just a couple of eastern European immigrants representing the New York Giants (Pete) and Washington Redskins (Charlie) in front of the parents who brought them to the land of opportunity.
"That was wonderful," Pete says.
Also vivid is the tryout he had with a Buffalo Bills scout in the spring of 1964 at Cornell, where he kicked a 50-yard field goal as a senior. Gogolak put on a show, drilling one kick after another through the uprights from various distances. The scout was both impressed and surprised.
"He said, 'Geez, I've never seen anybody kick this way,'" Gogolak says.
"This way" was soccer style. Gogolak approached the ball from an angle, off to the side, planted his left leg and then rotated his whole body to swing his kicking leg through the ball. At the time, it was revolutionary.
The Bills selected Gogolak in the 12th round of the 1964 AFL draft.

Gogolak's impact was immediate, though he didn't realize it.
His 57-yard field goal for the Bills in his exhibition debut against the Jets exceeded the standing NFL record of 56 yards. Jets coach Weeb Ewbank saw Gogolak as a game-changer.
"After I saw him kick that one, I thought, 'I'll either try to get them outlawed, or I'll get one myself,'" Ewbank says.

While Gogolak was kicking for the Bills in 1964, Stenerud was at Montana State on a skiing scholarship.
That year, Stenerud was running at Montana State's stadium when he saw one of the football players practicing his place-kicking. Stenerud, who played soccer, asked to give it a try. At first, he kicked straight on, imitating the style he saw. Even in tennis shoes, Stenerud outkicked the football player.
"After a few times, I said, 'Is it legal to kick with the side of your foot, like a soccer corner kick?'" Stenerud, 73, says. "I doubt he knew what a corner kick was, but he said, 'Yes, you can. Because there's this guy for the Buffalo Bills, his name is Gogolak, and he kicks with the side of his foot.' So I kicked a few that way."

To this day, Gogolak is surprised that he was the first soccer-style kicker to stick and flourish in the pros. There had been others before him in college, but their time was brief. Texas' Fred Bednarski of Poland booted a 38-yard soccer-style field goal in 1957. American Evan Paoletti, a former soccer player, kicked extra points from the side for Huron College in South Dakota in 1958. Walt Doleschal of Czechoslovakia kicked extra points and field goals at Lafayette from 1959-61.
"I think the guys that were soccer players here never felt comfortable to put a helmet on [to try football]," Gogolak says. "I think the kids probably made fun of them."
Once those kids saw the style on TV, however, the door was open. Gogolak takes pride in being a pioneer.
"I always say I should have patented this kick," he says. "You would be calling me in the Bahamas someplace, with my own airplane parked next to my house."

http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/17704991/how-pete-gogolak-other-european-soccer-style-place-kickers-started-revolution-50-years-ago

1966

Warren SB Nation: Pete Gogolak Discusses His Role In The AFL-NFL Merger (2011)

"When I signed [with the Bills], I signed for two years," Gogolak told me by phone earlier this week. "You sign for one year, and you're obligated at the end of the year for what they called an option year. You sign for one year but you're obligated to stay with the team for two years. When I signed, I signed for $11,000. That was nothing to sneeze at. It's very good money for a guy who never had a penny in 1964. I had no complaints."
When the season ended, however, Buffalo offered him a small raise despite his great success on the field.
"My deal expired, so they came back to me to sign up again," continued Gogolak. "I was the second-highest scorer in the league behind Gino Cappelletti. They told me I had a great year, so Buffalo came back and said they'd give me thirteen [thousand dollars]. I said, 'Listen, I finished Cornell. I can do other things.'"

Gogolak was upset that the Bills didn't value him as much as other players on their roster despite his high scoring numbers and kicking percentage.
"It was like a slap in the face, frankly," said Gogolak. "We won the AFL Championship. I proved myself. There were No. 1 draft choices later on as kickers, and I know what some of the No. 1 draft choices were getting in salaries and bonuses and everything else."
While the Bills offered him a 30% raise, Gogolak went for the 100% raise to put him where he thought he was worth.

"I asked for twenty [thousand dollars], and they wouldn't talk to me," noted Gogolak. "So I thought they were going to come around, 'cause I liked Buffalo. In any event, they wouldn't give it to me. They never even offered me anything, so I said I would play out my option. That means you take a 10 percent salary cut. You play out your option, take a 10 percent salary cut, and the following year you become a free agent. Then you can sign with anybody, basically."
In 1965, the Bills and Gogolak repeated their great success from 1964.
"My second year I played for $9,900 [in order to play out the option], and again I became the second-highest scorer and the Bills won the AFL Championship again." Laughing with long-remembered frustration, he continued, "Gino Cappelletti again beat me out. I was ahead of him going into the last couple of games, and then he caught a couple of touchdown passes. He played end, a fine kicker, but he beat me out by like six or seven points for the top scorer in the league."
Buffalo finally offered Gogolak the contract he wanted in 1965, but it was too little, too late.
"As I recall, maybe a couple weeks before my contract ran out after they didn't talk to me for two years, then they offered me $20,000," Gogolak recalled. "I said 'no thank you.' It was just unfortunate. And then May the first - I did everything by the book, nobody called me - after May the first the New York Giants gave me a call."

There was a gentleman's agreement in place that AFL owners wouldn't poach players from other teams. The NFL had no agreement about stealing players - in writing or implied - but the two leagues didn't want costs to escalate.
"I was surprised that none of the other AFL teams had called me," said Gogolak. "A lot of teams needed a kicker. I guess there was kind of a gentleman's agreement that we don't take players from other teams. I can understand that."
With more teams competing for the same number of players, salaries would rise dramatically. But the Mara family didn't care. The Giants' kicker, ironically also drafted by the Bills in 1965, missed 13 straight kicks at one point in the 1965 season. They didn't care what the consequences might be.

"The NFL and the Giants called," explains Gogolak. "I signed with the Giants and made three times as much as I made with the Bills. I signed for $35,000. They gave me a four-year, no-cut contract. I went to the Giants and the team wasn't as good as the Bills. Then you know what happened. The AFL started calling NFL players and the war started, and basically a few months later the two leagues merged. So maybe I started something. I not only started the soccer-style kick, but maybe I started the merger."
Gogolak didn't set out to be revolutionary or a trailblazer. He simply wanted what he felt he was worth. That stemmed from his upbringing in Europe.
"No, I never thought of anything [like that]," recalls Gogolak. "I grew up in a country [Hungary], in a socialist economist country where everything was controlled by the government. There was no free enterprise. There was no private business. My dad was a doctor back in Hungary. He worked for the government. He couldn't have a practice. So we came to the States - and the Gogolak family was the luckiest family, because we were able to come to the States. Everything that happened to us - I'm very thankful all my life, and I still think it's a great country. In America, it's a free enterprise and you can ask for whatever you want and either they give it to you or they don't give it to you. I just felt like using a great capitalist system. You have a private service and you feel how much you are worth, and if someone can give it to you, great!"

Despite the lack of contract from the Bills, Gogolak didn't take it personally in the long run:
"It was a business decision," Gogolak said. "It happens in other professions. Maybe Mr. Wilson thought $20,000 was too high, and I felt it was worthwhile. It was 45 years ago."
Gogolak's career with the Giants was wildly successful. He called it "a great honor" to be named to the Giants Ring of Honor.
"[The Bills are] the only championship team I played for in my pro football career, and I have never forgotten that," noted Gogolak. "It was a great place to play, but I was thinking about my future and my life, and in the long run everything worked out for me. I became the Giants' all-time scorer. Actually, we had a very average team. As far as my career with the Giants, it wasn't as productive as it was with the Bills.

"Let me say this, it was the best team I played for," continued Gogolak. "Better than the Giants. Buffalo was a great team, a great city, great bunch of guys. What more pleasure and fun for a young guy to come in and win the AFL Championship?"
The story of Gogolak's selection by the Bills in 1964 has Harvey Johnson's hands all over it, as many did in the first two and a half decades of the franchise. It also is special for Gogolak, since he paid his respects to the friend that set up his first meeting with Johnson this past weekend.
"It's very appropriate that this week is the anniversary of this signing," began Gogolak. "I was away for the weekend and it's coincidental I was in Ithaca because my Freshman football coach at Cornell passed away - a guy named Ted Thoren - and I went back to Ithaca and went to the funeral. When I played at Cornell, we had horrible teams, and in my senior year, two weeks before the draft, he had a friend up in Buffalo with the Bills - a guy by the name of Harvey Johnson - who was a pro scout up there. And Harvey Johnson came down and looked at me. I got a bag of balls and went to Schoellkopf Field at Cornell. I kicked maybe five or six kicks and Harvey said, 'I've seen enough.' Basically that's how the Buffalo Bills drafted me as a kicking specialist."

Gogolak's opinion is that the Bills were willing to try a different style of kicker as long as they got results.
"I think the thinking was that it might be amusing," Gogolak said. "Here's a guy who kicks the ball differently. Let's give him a shot at it. The NFL didn't draft me, but to make a long story short, Ted Thoren was instrumental for me to get a chance in the pro football world. I wasn't drafted by the NFL, and I was very disappointed."
Gogolak contacted me to make sure Buffalo fans share his side of the story. He wants people to know he isn't a bad guy for taking the money, nor skipping from the AFL to NFL.

"I know a lot of people in Buffalo thought I was disloyal," concluded Gogolak. "He was on two championship teams and he was not very thankful, but that's not the case. I tried to tell you the true story from my side. The fans in Buffalo and the team - I just had wonderful experiences. Even playing in War Memorial Stadium."
In fact, my favorite story of Gogolak's was about the Rockpile. It was noted to be in constant disrepair, and Gogolak agreed.
"It happened to me twice - I went in to kick a field goal and before I hit the ball there was a Coke bottle sticking out of the ground," recalled Gogolak, laughing. "It was in my in-step, and if I had kicked it my foot would have fallen off. It wasn't the best-kept stadium in the world, but it was a great way to get a start to a career. I think every game was sold out when we had those Championship teams."

https://www.buffalorumblings.com/platform/amp/2011/5/17/2175149/pete-gogolak-afl-nfl-merger

1966: Pete Gogolak Jumps From AFL to NFL

�However, on May 17, 1966 Gogolak took a pivotal step in the battle between the AFL and NFL when, having played out his option in Buffalo, he signed a contract with the NFL�s New York Giants.

No player had jumped leagues since offensive end Willard Dewveall went from the Bears to the Oilers in 1961, and there had been an unofficial understanding in place that, while rookies were fair game, no veteran would be signed by a team from the other league until it was clear that no other club in his own circuit was interested. That was hardly the case with Gogolak, who had shown that soccer-style kicking was effective and thus helped Buffalo to back-to-back AFL titles.

It was no surprise that the Giants would be interested in Gogolak as they certainly had a need to upgrade the kicking game - their placekickers in 1965 were successful on a woeful 4 of 25 field goal attempts. But it was stunning that they would abrogate the understanding between the leagues and that Commissioner Pete Rozelle would approve the deal.

For Al Davis, the head coach/GM of the Oakland Raiders who had succeeded Joe Foss as AFL commissioner just five weeks before, the Gogolak signing was an unquestioned declaration of war by the NFL. As he told a sportswriter, �It was a declaration of war all right. And we had to do what the generals do in a way. Go after the supply lines. Hit the enemy where it hurts most.�

It didn�t take long for the repercussions to be felt. The day after Gogolak switched leagues, the Associated Press reported that two AFL teams had been in contact with at least four members of the Giants. Rumors spread very quickly thereafter that several NFL veterans had expressed interest in entertaining offers from the rival league, and that AFL teams were actively pursuing veteran NFL players.

Commissioner Davis promoted a strategy of signing select NFL quarterbacks to future contracts, and in the next few weeks it was reported that Roman Gabriel of the Rams had come to an agreement with Oakland and San Francisco�s John Brodie had accepted a significant offer from the Houston Oilers.

The war was escalating quickly, but in fact negotiations between the two leagues that had already been occurring behind the scenes reached fruition a short time later. While there was plenty of bad feeling and suspicion between officials of the NFL and AFL, they came to a merger agreement less than a month after Pete Gogolak became a member of the New York Giants. Of course, the player raiding came to an abrupt end.

The pairing of Gogolak and the Giants proved lasting. The Hungarian refugee, who had originally signed a one-year contract with Buffalo, received a four-year deal at significantly more money from the Giants. He ended up staying nine seasons (he missed a few games in 1967 due to military duty) and connected on 57.5 % of his field goal attempts (126 of 219).�

https://fs64sports.blogspot.com/2010/05/1966-pete-gogolak-jumps-from-afl-to-nfl.html

1968 Stars and Stripes:

Garmisch, Germany, March, 1968: To some, he was best known as pro football's first soccer-style kicker; to others he was the player whose move from the AFL's Buffalo Bills to the NFL's New York Giants was one of the things that forced the leagues' merger. But to his co-workers at the Armed Forces Recreation Center headquarters in Garmisch, he was Pfc. Pete Gogolak, right, assigned to management review and conference coordination duties during his two-year Army stint.

In Memoriam

Carl Grate G D11-Georgia 1944 NYG 1945 Born 4-18-1920 Died 9-26-2012

Jack Mead E D7-Wisconsin 1945 NYG 1946-1947 Born 4-18-1921 Died 2-22-2001

5-06-1948 MAY 6 (Green Bay) - �Jack Mead, former University of Wisconsin end who played with the New York Giants for two years, today signed with the Green Bay Packers. Coach Curly Lambeau also announced the re-signing of Bob Flowers, end from Texas Tech, who has been with the Packers for six seasons. Mead, 6 foot 3 and 220 pounds, who was honorary Badger captain in 1945, was signed as a free agent. He had requested and received his release from the Giants to be with his family in Madison.�