The Detroit Lions are promoting linebackers coach Kelvin Sheppard to replace Aaron Glenn as their...

The Detroit Lions are promoting linebackers coach Kelvin Sheppard to replace Aaron Glenn as their defensive coordinator, according to <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1883256153985130932">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo</a>.Sheppard has been a linebackers coach under Dan Campbell since 2021. He spent one year coaching outside linebackers before overseeing all linebackers in 2022.Sheppard spent eight seasons in the NFL after being drafted in the third round out of LSU in 2011. His best season came in 2015 when he racked up 105 tackles in 16 games with the Miami Dolphins. He was also the director of player development at LSU in 2020. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 37-year-old has helped develop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188191" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188191">Jack Campbell</a>, who led the team in tackles this season after being selected in the first round of the 2023 draft. Detroit's defense ranked seventh in EPA/play and eighth in success rate in 2024 under Glenn, according to Ben Baldwin's database. Glenn, 52, was the Lions' defensive coordinator for four seasons before taking the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3195573" href="https://thescore.com/news/3195573">New York Jets head coaching job</a> Wednesday.

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - DECEMBER 15: Linebackers coach Kelvin Sheppard of the Detroit Lions reacts to a play in the first half of a game against the Buffalo Bills at Ford Field on December 15, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Report: Lions promoting LBs coach Sheppard to DC

With the Tennessee Titans holding the first overall pick and having a need at quarterback, the cl...

With the Tennessee Titans holding the first overall pick and having a need at quarterback, the club is doing its due diligence on the top signal-callers ahead of April's draft. Head coach Brian Callahan was impressed with potential top pick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/160938" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/160938">Shedeur Sanders</a>, who he met this week at the East-West Shrine Bowl."You can tell he's been raised right," Callahan said of the Colorado quarterback and son of Buffaloes coach Deion Sanders, according to <a href="https://www.tennesseetitans.com/news/from-the-east-west-shrine-bowl-titans-coach-brian-callahan-meets-qb-shedeur-sanders-shares-his-thoughts-on-sanders-and-qb-cam-ward">Titans reporter Jim Wyatt</a>. "He's mature, he has a really poised way about him, and he seems like a really good kid.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I enjoyed talking to him. And, you could tell he's a guy who has been in the spotlight. He knows how to handle himself, he's been paid money, so he has a financial perspective."It was a really good first impression."Sanders is projected to be one of the top quarterbacks off the board. He threw for 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns while completing 74% of his throws in 2024. Sanders' high-level play helped Colorado achieve a 9-4 record, the school's best mark since 2016. The 22-year-old finished among the top in many quarterback stats last year, ranking fourth in passing yards, fourth in total EPA generated, and fifth in passer rating."The thing that stands out the most is his toughness," Callahan said. "He took some pretty big shots and he kept rolling. He can stand in the pocket and deliver it. "He can move and create a bit, he has some ability to move out the pocket, and he does create on his own. He's not a high-end dynamic scrambler necessarily, but he is productive when he does. And he really has a good feel for anticipation and timing, you can tell he's been coached in that regard. Those things show up on tape."Tennessee rolled with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188135" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188135">Will Levis</a> as its primary starter last season after selecting him in the second round of the 2023 draft. The 25-year-old struggled in 12 starts, throwing for 2,091 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. Out of 32 qualifying quarterbacks in 2024, Levis ranked last in EPA/play and success rate, according to <a href="https://rbsdm.com/stats/stats/">Ben Baldwin's database</a>.The Titans fired general manager Ran Carthon after just one season a few days after their regular-season finale. New general manager <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3197489" href="https://thescore.com/news/3197489">Mike Borgonzi said</a> at his introductory press conference the organization will be proactive in finding its next franchise quarterback this offseason.

KANSAS CITY, MO - NOVEMBER 23: Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders (2) kneels and smiles before a Big 12 game between the Colorado Buffaloes and Kansas Jayhawks on November 23, 2024 at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, MO.

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Titans' Callahan had 'really good first impression' of Shedeur Sanders

The Jacksonville Jaguars hired Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Liam Coen as their head...

The Jacksonville Jaguars hired Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Liam Coen as their head coach, the team announced Friday.Coen had previously agreed to a contract extension with the Buccaneers and withdrew his name from the Jaguars' search earlier this week, per <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43541253/source-liam-coen-tells-bucs-taking-jaguars-head-coach-job">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>. The new deal reportedly would've made him the league's highest-paid coordinator.Jacksonville contacted Coen to see if he would reconsider after firing general manager Trent Baalke. The franchise's ownership said it would let him pick his GM and pay him Ben Johnson-level money with a multi-year contract, sources told <a href="https://x.com/DMRussini/status/1882592447664193725">The Athletic's Dianna Russini</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Coen signed a five-year deal with the Jaguars, <a href="https://x.com/JFowlerESPN/status/1882873878164435328">ESPN's Jeremy Fowler</a> reports."Becoming the head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars is an opportunity of a lifetime and one that I'm going to run with to instill a championship culture and winning tradition here in Duval," Coen said in a statement, according to <a href="https://x.com/PSchrags/status/1882870099134316940">Fox Sports' Peter Schrager</a>.He added: "As head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars, I will hire a first-class coaching staff, establish a distinctive and effective brand of football on both sides of the ball, and our players will live for the black and teal."Coen joined Todd Bowles' staff in Tampa Bay last year and thrived in his first season with the Buccaneers. He led an offense that ranked third in yards per game and fifth in scoring while helping the club secure its fourth straight NFC South division title. The offense also finished third in success rate and fifth in EPA/play, according to <a href="https://rbsdm.com/stats/stats/">Ben Baldwin's database</a>.Jacksonville is the only team that scheduled an interview with Coen during this year's coaching cycle. The 38-year-old was previously the offensive coordinator at Kentucky and with the Los Angeles Rams."I am deeply committed to building a winner here in Jacksonville," Jaguars owner Shad Khan said in a <a href="https://x.com/Jaguars/status/1882868084152868975">statement</a>. "I also believe in being judged by my actions, not words. That's why I took swift action this week to hire Liam Coen as the new head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars."I am pumped that Liam is accepting the challenge and opportunity to build the winner that Jaguars fans and partners fully deserve."Khan has a 64-148 record since his first season as the Jaguars' principal owner in 2012.Jacksonville fired Doug Pederson one day after its final regular-season game. Pederson went 22-29 in three seasons with the franchise, which struggled on both sides of the ball this campaign, ranking 26th in points and 27th in points allowed en route to a 4-13 record in 2024.The Jaguars are yet to enjoy the success they hoped for after selecting <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161653" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161653">Trevor Lawrence</a> first overall in the 2021 draft. He has a 22-38 record in 60 career regular-season starts and only one playoff victory. Lawrence missed the final five games of this season due to a shoulder injury and concussion.Lawrence <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3190666" href="https://thescore.com/news/3190666">said</a> earlier in January that he'd prefer Jacksonville hire "a young offensive coach" with a system the team can build on for years to come. Coen will be the youngest head coach in franchise history, according to team reporter <a href="https://www.jaguars.com/news/k000151-official-jaguars-name-leon-coen-head-coach">John Oehser</a>.

TAMPA, FL - AUG 06: Tampa Bay Buccaneers Offensive Coordinator Liam Coen gives instructions during Training Camp on August 06, 2024 at the AdventHealth Training Center at One Buccaneer Place in Tampa, Florida.

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Jaguars hire Coen as head coach

Philadelphia Eagles offensive tackle Jordan Mailata doesn't care that Washington Commanders quart...

Philadelphia Eagles offensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/127037" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/127037">Jordan Mailata</a> doesn't care that Washington Commanders quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199756" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199756">Jayden Daniels</a> is getting more hype than <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/105247" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/105247">Jalen Hurts</a> heading into their NFC Championship tilt."I couldn't give a f--k ... A rat's ass about whatever anyone says outside this building," Mailata <a href="https://x.com/Eagles/status/1882540116843065488">told reporters</a> Thursday when asked if it bothers him that some people don't consider Hurts the same caliber of quarterback as Daniels.He added: "It ain't gonna help us win championships, and that's our goal."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Daniels is coming off a tremendous performance last weekend in the divisional round against the Detroit Lions, completing 22 of 31 passes with 350 total yards and two touchdowns.The 24-year-old is having one of the best rookie quarterback seasons in NFL history, leading the Commanders to a 12-5 regular-season record and their first conference championship since the 1991 campaign. Out of 32 qualifying signal-callers this year, Daniels ranked sixth in EPA/play and eighth in completion percentage, according to <a href="https://rbsdm.com/stats/stats/">Ben Baldwin's database</a>.Meanwhile, Hurts has been criticized for his lackluster postseason passing numbers, throwing for 259 yards across the Eagles' two playoff victories. However, he's been efficient with his legs and has kept the ball out of harm's way.The 26-year-old is 12-0 in the last 12 contests he's started and finished, racking up 29 total touchdowns to just three turnovers during that stretch. Hurts has thrown one interception since the beginning of October, and the two-time Pro Bowler exited with a concussion versus Washington in Philly's only loss over that time.The Eagles have Hurts on the injury report due to a knee issue he suffered in the divisional round. However, Hurts was listed as a full participant in Thursday's practice, and Mailata said he's confident in the quarterback's ability heading into Sunday."He's tough and gritty man. That's him. He wants to be out there with us at all times. ... He likes to embrace adversity," Mailata said. "He's a lot more energetic this week, he's fired up. It's good to see that."The Eagles face the Commanders at 3 p.m. ET Sunday in the NFC Championship.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - DECEMBER 31: Jalen Hurts #1 and Jordan Mailata #68 of the Philadelphia Eagles look on against the Arizona Cardinals at Lincoln Financial Field on December 31, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Eagles' Mailata: 'Couldn't give a f--k' about discussing QB hype

Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Liam Coen is speaking with the Jacksonville Jaguars ab...

Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Liam Coen is speaking with the Jacksonville Jaguars about their head coaching job, sources told NFL Network's <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1882563493234389205">Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero</a>.Coen was reportedly scheduled to interview with the Jaguars this week before withdrawing from consideration and agreeing to his new deal with the Buccaneers.Jacksonville parted ways with general manager Trent Baalke on Wednesday. Owner Shad Khan initially stood by him when the club dismissed head coach Doug Pederson earlier in January. The Jaguars contacted Coen following Baalke's exit to ask if he'd reconsider joining the team, according to <a href="https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/1882564655757091127">Pelissero</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Buccaneers have been operating as if Coen will be returning to Tampa Bay, per <a href="https://x.com/DMRussini/status/1882567394134290883">The Athletic's Dianna Russini</a>. However, Coen reportedly didn't sign his agreed-upon contract and didn't inform the Buccaneers he was traveling to Jacksonville.Tampa Bay has tried calling and texting Coen, but he hasn't responded, <a href="https://x.com/DMRussini/status/1882567655661731967">Russini adds</a>. However, there are conflicting stories. Coen says he told Bucs head coach Todd Bowles he was with one of his kids Thursday and that he was interested in the Jaguars' coaching job, per <a href="https://x.com/NFLSTROUD/status/1882582343657107520">Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times</a>.Coen took the Buccaneers' coordinator job in 2024 and helped the team rank third in offensive success rate this season, per <a href="https://rbsdm.com/stats/stats/">Ben Baldwin's database</a>.Jacksonville is scheduled to interview former New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh for the second time Friday, according to <a href="https://x.com/DMRussini/status/1882564863391920504">Russini</a>. The franchise has also spoken with Todd Monken, Kellen Moore, Brian Flores, and Joe Brady.

TAMPA, FL - JUL 25: Tampa Bay Buccaneers Offensive Coordinator Liam Coen smiles during Training Camp on July 25, 2024 at the AdventHealth Training Center at One Buccaneer Place in Tampa, Florida.

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Report: Bucs' Coen meeting with Jags after initially declining

Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes doesn't believe the narrative that Kansas City gets extra prot...

Chiefs quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/89514" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/89514">Patrick Mahomes</a> doesn't believe the narrative that Kansas City gets extra protection from referees. "I don't feel that way. I just try to play football, at the end of the day," Mahomes said Wednesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/CameronWolfe/status/1882129169418756297">NFL Network's Cameron Wolfe</a>. "The referees are doing their best to call the game as fair and as proper as they can."The Chiefs took the third-fewest penalties per game this season, according to <a href="https://www.nflpenalties.com/index.php?year=2024&amp;view=games">nflpenalties.com</a>. Outrage and conspiracy theories erupted online after Kansas City benefited from two personal foul penalties during its divisional-round matchup against the Houston Texans.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>In the first quarter, pass-rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188133" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188133">Will Anderson</a> was called for roughing the passer on a third down, extending the Chiefs' drive.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Refs throw a flag already for helmet to helmet to Mahomes. Roughing the passer for the Chiefs <a href="https://t.co/7RYlHeYQh4">pic.twitter.com/7RYlHeYQh4</a>— Rate the Refs (@Rate_the_Refs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rate_the_Refs/status/1880735734661107818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Then linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188268" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188268">Henry To'oTo'o</a> was flagged for unnecessary roughness in the third quarter after attempting to tackle a sliding Mahomes. Chiefs tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/23150" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/23150">Travis Kelce</a> subsequently scored a touchdown, putting Kansas City up 20-12.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
You can't make this up.... Mahomes draws another flag for this "late hit" <a href="https://t.co/a5egiZytDe">pic.twitter.com/a5egiZytDe</a>— Rate the Refs (@Rate_the_Refs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rate_the_Refs/status/1880759481434603930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Former senior vice president of officiating Walt Anderson<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3194904" href="https://thescore.com/news/3194904"> said</a> Sunday that both calls were the correct ones.Mahomes had the second-most roughing the passer penalties called on him this season, behind only Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161671" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161671">Justin Fields</a>, per <a href="https://www.nflpenalties.com/roughing-the-passer-by-qb.php?view=all">nflpenalties.com</a>.The Chiefs take on the Buffalo Bills on Sunday in the AFC Championship Game.

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JANUARY 18: Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs runs down the sideline prior to the beginning of the Divisional Round playoff game against the Houston Texans at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on January 18, 2025 in Kansas City, Missouri.

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Mahomes: Chiefs don't get special treatment from refs

The New York Jets hired Aaron Glenn as their next head coach, the team announced Wednesday.  He'l...

The New York Jets hired Aaron Glenn as their next head coach, the team announced Wednesday.He'll sign a five-year contract, according to <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1882172039659921885">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.Glenn has spent the last four seasons as the Detroit Lions' defensive coordinator. Despite multiple injuries to key players this year, the Lions' defense ranked seventh in EPA/play and eighth in success rate, according to <a href="https://rbsdm.com/stats/stats/">Ben Baldwin's database</a>. The unit also tallied 24 takeaways.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I'm excited to welcome Aaron Glenn home as the head coach of the New York Jets," Jets owner Woody Johnson <a href="https://www.newyorkjets.com/news/jets-hire-aaron-glenn-head-coach-01-22-2025">said</a> in a statement. "Aaron earned this opportunity through almost three decades of NFL experience - 10 with us as a player and a scout. He brings tremendous leadership skills and the vision this organization needs to be successful. I am thrilled to see him lead this team."The Jets fired former head coach Robert Saleh after five games in 2024. The club hasn't posted a winning campaign since 2015 and hasn't made the postseason since 2010.Glenn began his coaching career as the Cleveland Browns' assistant defensive backs coach from 2014-16. He joined the New Orleans Saints as their defensive backs coach from 2016-20 before becoming the Lions' defensive coordinator.New York drafted Glenn 12th overall in 1994. The 52-year-old made three Pro Bowls in his 15-year playing career with the Jets, Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboys, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Saints.Glenn interviewed for other teams' head coaching vacancies this offseason, including the Chicago Bears, Jaguars, and New Orleans Saints.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - DECEMBER 22: Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn of the Detroit Lions looks on during the second half against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 22, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Jets hire Lions' Glenn as head coach

Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta told reporters Wednesday that Baltimore will explore a contra...

Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta told reporters Wednesday that Baltimore will explore a contract extension for running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/72385" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/72385">Derrick Henry</a> this offseason. "We'll look at that ...," DeCosta <a href="https://x.com/Ravens/status/1882101908845777299">said</a>. "I'm just so grateful that Derrick chose us last year. I can honestly say his attitude and the way that he played was amazing to watch. His relationship with his teammates ... I can't wait to see him next year."Henry signed a two-year deal worth up to $20 million with $9 million guaranteed last March. The five-time Pro Bowler is set to have a $12.8-million cap hit in 2025, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/player/derrick-henry/4758">Over The Cap</a>. He spent the previous eight seasons of his career with the Tennessee Titans.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 31-year-old thrived in his first campaign with Baltimore, ranking second in the NFL in rushing yards (1,921) while racking up 16 touchdowns on 325 carries. Henry's 1,921 rushing yards were the most by a Raven in a single season since Jamal Lewis ran for 2,066 in 2003. Baltimore's offense ranked first in EPA/play and second in rushing success rate with Henry this campaign, according to <a href="https://rbsdm.com/stats/stats/">Ben Baldwin's database</a>. The Ravens went 12-5 in the regular season but lost to the Buffalo Bills in the divisional round.Henry has 2,355 carries since entering the league in 2016, 216 more than the next closest player during that stretch. DeCosta didn't seem concerned about Henry's durability, saying he "proved that he had a lot left in the tank.""I know it was tough on him to end the way it did, tough on all of us," the GM said. "But I think we have a chip on our shoulders to come back next year with a vengeance."DeCosta also said the Ravens will work on extensions for safety <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/173993" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/173993">Kyle Hamilton</a> and center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/173992" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/173992">Tyler Linderbaum</a>, according to <a href="https://x.com/jeffzrebiec/status/1882100349651312813">The Athletic's Jeff Zrebiec</a>. Both are eligible for new deals after completing their third seasons in the NFL.

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 19: Derrick Henry #22 of the Baltimore Ravens looks on prior to the game against the Buffalo Bills during the AFC Divisional Playoff at Highmark Stadium on January 19, 2025 in Orchard Park, New York.

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Ravens GM: We'll look at extending Henry this offseason

Bills fans are showing support for Ravens tight end Mark Andrews after the veteran dropped the ty...

Bills fans are showing support for Ravens tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/82707" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/82707">Mark Andrews</a> after the veteran dropped the tying two-point conversion late in Baltimore's divisional-round loss to Buffalo on Sunday.In the wake of Andrews' tough game, a Bills fan created a <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-marks-charity-for-juveniles-with-diabetes">GoFundMe</a> that has accepted over $35,000 in donations to Breakthrough T1D, a nonprofit that funds research to find a cure for Type 1 diabetes and helps people living with the autoimmune disease. Andrews has Type 1 diabetes and has been a spokesperson for those living with it.The generated money is well over the fundraiser's initial $10,000 goal.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Andrews has received online backlash for his costly dropped pass and a fumble midway through the fourth quarter that led to a Bills field goal.The 29-year-old has been with the Ravens since being drafted in the third round in 2018. Andrews has 436 catches for 5,530 yards and 51 touchdowns in 104 career regular-season games.

BALTIMORE, MD - JANUARY 04: Mark Andrews #89 of the Baltimore Ravens looks on before the game against the Cleveland Browns at M&T Bank Stadium on January 4, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Bills fans donate over $35K to Andrews charity

The New England Patriots are hiring Josh McDaniels to be their next offensive coordinator, source...

The New England Patriots are hiring Josh McDaniels to be their next offensive coordinator, sources told <a href="https://x.com/DMRussini/status/1881831817273278653">The Athletic's Dianna Russini</a>.McDaniels, 48, was head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders from 2022-23. He went 9-16 with the franchise and was fired midway through the 2023 season.This will be McDaniels' third stint with the Patriots. He worked under Bill Belichick for 18 seasons, starting as a personnel assistant in 2001 before serving as offensive coordinator from 2006-08 and again from 2012-21. New England captured six Super Bowls during McDaniels two different spells with the club.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>McDaniels was also head coach of the Denver Broncos from 2009-10 and offensive coordinator of the St. Louis Rams in 2011.Head coach Mike Vrabel, who took the job earlier this month, was a linebacker for the Patriots during McDaniels' first stint.New England's offense struggled last season, ranking 27th in EPA/play and 30th in points per game. Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199741" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199741">Drake Maye</a> showed flashes of promise, and the team is expected to add more talent around him this offseason. The club owns the fourth overall pick in the 2025 draft and has a league-high $120 million in cap space, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/salary-cap-space">Over The Cap</a>.The Patriots will also be hiring Detroit Lions defensive line coach Terrell Williams as their new defensive coordinator, sources told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1882049787341508905">ESPN's Adam Schefter and Mike Reiss</a>.

PITTSBURGH, PA - DECEMBER 16: Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels of the New England Patriots looks on prior to the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field on December 16, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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Report: McDaniels returns to Patriots for 3rd stint as OC

A former senior vice president of officiating with the NFL says the two controversial personal fo...

A former senior vice president of officiating with the NFL says the two controversial personal foul penalties on Kansas City Chiefs quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/89514" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/89514">Patrick Mahomes</a> in the divisional round Saturday were the correct calls.Midway through the first quarter, Houston Texans pass-rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188133" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188133">Will Anderson</a> was flagged for roughing the passer after he hit Mahomes on third down. The Chiefs later kicked a field goal on the drive to gain a 6-3 lead. <figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Refs throw a flag already for helmet to helmet to Mahomes. Roughing the passer for the Chiefs <a href="https://t.co/7RYlHeYQh4">pic.twitter.com/7RYlHeYQh4</a>— Rate the Refs (@Rate_the_Refs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rate_the_Refs/status/1880735734661107818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"When the defenders come in, and when they end up coming in face-to-face, if there's contact to the head of the quarterback, that's probably going to be called by the officials. And that's what you can see here," Walt Anderson, a former senior vice president of officiating with the league, said Sunday on <a href="https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/1881038229983662256">NFL Network</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Anderson, now an NFL officiating rules analyst with the network, added: "When in doubt, officials are to call roughing the passer, and it's in the roughing the passer rule ... they're going to protect the quarterbacks."With less than 2 minutes remaining in the third quarter, Houston linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188268" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188268">Henry To'oTo'o</a> was called for unnecessary roughness after attempting to hit a scrambling Mahomes when he slid down.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
You can't make this up.... Mahomes draws another flag for this "late hit" <a href="https://t.co/a5egiZytDe">pic.twitter.com/a5egiZytDe</a>— Rate the Refs (@Rate_the_Refs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rate_the_Refs/status/1880759481434603930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"Officials have to call based on what they see," Anderson said. "When a player goes to the ground, he doesn't even have to be touched, he's down."Yes, the two players (Texans defenders) end up colliding ... but when No. 39 (To'oTo'o) comes in and his hairline of his helmet strikes the helmet of the runner who's already on the ground, that's a foul," Anderson added.A few plays after that penalty, tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/23150" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/23150">Travis Kelce</a> capped off the drive with a touchdown reception that extended Kansas City's lead to 20-12. The Chiefs ultimately won the contest 23-14.A few Texans players questioned the officiating after the game."Everybody knows how it is playing up here," Houston running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/82723" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/82723">Joe Mixon</a> told reporters, according to <a href="https://x.com/WillKunkelFOX/status/1880805273956229381">Will Kunkel of Fox 26 Houston</a>. "You can never leave it into the refs' hands. I mean, the whole world sees, man, what it is, bro."The Chiefs will play host to the winner of Sunday's Ravens-Bills divisional round game Jan. 26.

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JANUARY 18: Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs celebrates with fans after defeating the Houston Texans in the AFC Divisional Playoff at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on January 18, 2025 in Kansas City, Missouri.

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Commanders running back Austin Ekeler praised quarterback Jayden Daniels after his terrific perfo...

Commanders running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/81875" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/81875">Austin Ekeler</a> praised quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199756" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199756">Jayden Daniels</a> after his terrific performance against the Detroit Lions helped Washington advance to the NFC Championship Game."He's so poised and so clutch," Ekeler said postgame Saturday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43475260/commanders-1st-nfc-title-game-91-say-not-done-yet">ESPN's John Keim</a>. "Every week, I'm like, man, this guy is really good. I know to expect it, but again and again he continues to show that, hey, he has a huge clutch gene, and it shows up all the time."The rookie signal-caller racked up 350 total yards and two touchdowns with a 122.9 passer rating in the divisional round. Washington's offense dominated the contest, scoring five touchdowns and one field goal while only punting once on nine possessions. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Washington put up 31 points in the first half, the most for any team in the opening two quarters of a playoff game in the last five years, according to <a href="https://x.com/SheilKapadia/status/1880807364313731163">The Ringer's Sheil Kapadia</a>.The Lions' defense struggled to contain or get pressure on Daniels. Against the blitz, the 2023 Heisman winner completed 12 of 16 passes for 191 yards and a touchdown, according to <a href="https://x.com/NextGenStats/status/1880834180537635191">Next Gen Stats</a>. Detroit went the entire contest without recording a sack."I knew Jay was ready, Day 1," running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174076" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174076">Brian Robinson</a> said. "I knew he was ready not only for everything, all the great stuff he's done this year, but to have himself prepared for the playoffs and the big-time moments."Daniels made history Saturday, tying Ben Roethlisberger for the most wins by a rookie quarterback in a season with 14. He will become only the sixth first-year signal-caller to start a conference championship game since 1970.It will be 12,068 days between conference championship games for Washington when it faces the winner of next weekend's Rams-Eagles divisional round contest, breaking the longest drought in the NFC.

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JANUARY 18: Jayden Daniels #5 of the Washington Commanders celebrates during an NFL Football game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on January 18, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon is active for Saturday's divisional-round game against the ...

Houston Texans running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/82723" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/82723">Joe Mixon</a> is active for Saturday's divisional-round game against the Kansas City Chiefs. Mixon was listed as questionable with an ankle injury. He didn't practice Thursday after being a limited participant in Wednesday's session. Mixon dealt with an ankle ailment earlier in the season that forced him to miss three games.The 28-year-old played in Houston's wild-card round victory over the Los Angeles Chargers, racking up 25 carries for 106 yards and a touchdown.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Mixon led the Texans in attempts (245), rushing yards (1,016), and total touchdowns (12) this campaign. He earned his second-career Pro Bowl selection in 2024 after being acquired from the Cincinnati Bengals in March.

HOUSTON, TEXAS - JANUARY 11: Joe Mixon #28 of the Houston Texans celebrates in the second half during the AFC Wild Card Playoff game against the Los Angeles Chargers at NRG Stadium on January 11, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

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Texans' Mixon active for divisional round vs. Chiefs

Texas and head coach Steve Sarkisian agreed to a contract extension, sources told Action Network'...

Texas and head coach Steve Sarkisian agreed to a contract extension, sources told <a href="https://x.com/Brett_McMurphy/status/1880710384077992385">Action Network's Brett McMurphy</a>.The deal comes after Sarkisian declined interviews with two NFL teams, McMurphy adds. Sarkisian was initially given a six-year, $34-million deal when he became Texas' head coach in 2021. He signed a new four-year contract last year that saw him reportedly earn $10.3 million in 2024.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 50-year-old holds a 38-17 record as the Longhorns' head coach. He's helped turn the program into a powerhouse in the last two seasons, going 25-5 from 2023-24.Texas made the College Football Playoff this season but lost to Ohio State in the semifinals. The Longhorns' offense and defense ranked inside the top 30 in points per game in 2024.Sarkisian will be tasked with developing quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/184393" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/184393">Arch Manning</a>, who's expected to take the starting job after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/166550" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/166550">Quinn Ewers</a> declared for the 2025 NFL Draft.

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - JANUARY 10: Head coach Steve Sarkisian of the Texas Longhorns looks on before the Goodyear Cotton Bowl against the Ohio State Buckeyes at AT&T Stadium on January 10, 2025 in Arlington, Texas.

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Ohio State star wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/195944" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/195944">Jeremiah Smith</a> is confident he'll dominate the College Football Playoff National Championship game against Notre Dame on Monday."If you are going to play man (to-man defense) against Ohio State, be ready," Smith told reporters Saturday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/43465159/ohio-state-wr-jeremiah-smith-wait-put-show-vs-notre-dame">ESPN's Paolo Uggetti</a>. "I can't wait to put on a show."Smith is coming off a quiet game against Texas in the Cotton Bowl, totaling only one catch for 3 yards.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"You watch the film - they doubled, tripled me," Smith said about his performance against the Longhorns. "It's frustrating, but being a decoy helped us win the game."Smith had his best contest of the season against Oregon in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals, racking up seven catches for 187 yards and two touchdowns.The 19-year-old exploded on the scene in his first year with the Buckeyes, leading them in receiving yards (1,277) and touchdowns (14)."If I've got to be a decoy in this game, I'll be a decoy," Smith said. "All I want to do is win."The Fighting Irish possess one of the nation's best defenses, ranking third in passing yards allowed per contest and second in points per game.

PASADENA, CA - JANUARY 01: Wide Receiver Jeremiah Smith #4 of the Ohio State Buckeyes looks on during the Ohio State Buckeyes versus Oregon Ducks in the College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at the Rose Bowl Game on January 1, 2025 at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, CA.

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Tom Brady plans to fulfill the 10-year, $375-million contract he signed with Fox to broadcast NFL...

Tom Brady plans to fulfill the 10-year, $375-million contract he signed with Fox to broadcast NFL games, his agent Don Yee told <a href="https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/SB-Blogs/Newsletter-Football/2025/01/16.aspx">Ben Fischer of the Sports Business Journal</a>."Tom has had a tremendous amount of fun working with Fox this year, and he's really excited about the future with Fox and his growth on their team," Yee said. He added: "And this year was the first year of a long relationship."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 47-year-old signed the deal with Fox in 2022, becoming the highest-paid sports commentator in history. He's announced games alongside Kevin Burkhardt this season and is expected to be part of Fox's broadcast team for the upcoming Super Bowl.Brady officially became a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders in October. Due to his status as a team owner, he's restricted from entering other teams' facilities and practice fields and isn't allowed to attend broadcast production meetings.Las Vegas is searching for a new general manager and head coach after firing Antonio Pierce and Tom Telesco. Brady is reportedly helping owner Mark Davis conduct the pursuit, and they have already begun the interviewing process for both positions.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JANUARY 12: Former NFL Player Tom Brady looks on prior to the NFC Wild Card Playoff between the Green Bay Packers and the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on January 12, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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The Houston Texans are listing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/82723" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/82723">Joe Mixon</a> as questionable for Saturday's divisional-round game against the Kansas City Chiefs. Mixon didn't practice Thursday after being a limited participant in Wednesday's session. He was a full go in the wild-card round, rushing for 106 yards and a touchdown on 25 carries versus the Los Angeles Chargers. The 28-year-old missed three games during the regular season with an ankle injury. Houston went 2-1 in those contests.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174144" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174144">Dameon Pearce</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/69944" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/69944">Dare Ogunbowale</a> are expected to shoulder the load at running back if Mixon can't play.Houston acquired Mixon in a trade with the Cincinnati Bengals in March. The Oklahoma product rushed for 1,016 yards and 11 touchdowns in 14 regular-season games.

HOUSTON, TEXAS - DECEMBER 25: Joe Mixon #28 of the Houston Texans warms up prior to the game against the Baltimore Ravens at NRG Stadium on December 25, 2024 in Houston, Texas.

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Tennessee edge rusher James Pearce Jr. declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, he announced Wednesday.  ...

Tennessee edge rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/171511" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/171511">James Pearce Jr.</a> declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, he announced Wednesday.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
VFL🧡 <a href="https://t.co/052zn6diUn">pic.twitter.com/052zn6diUn</a>— JCP (@JamesPearceJr10) <a href="https://twitter.com/JamesPearceJr10/status/1879724981539811631?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The 21-year-old is projected to be a first-round pick and one of the top pass-rushers to come off the board. Pearce will skip his senior year to enter the NFL after three seasons with the Volunteers.Pearce became a full-time starter as a sophomore after playing sparingly in his freshman season. In 2024, Pearce had 55 pressures, 43 hurries, 13 tackles for loss, and 7.5 sacks in 13 games, according to <a href="https://premium.pff.com/ncaa/teams/2024/REGPO/tennessee-volunteers/defense-pass-rush">PFF</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The six-foot-five, 243-pound pass-rusher has been a key player on Tennessee's defense over the last two seasons. The Volunteers finished seventh in the nation in points allowed this campaign and reached the College Football Playoff after a 10-2 regular-season record.Pearce earned first-team All-SEC honors in each of his last two years. He finishes his college career with 70 tackles, 19 sacks, and three forced fumbles.

FAYETTEVILLE, AR - OCTOBER 05: Tennessee Volunteers defensive lineman James Pearce Jr. (27) during the college football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and Arkansas Razorbacks on October 5, 2024, at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

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The Baltimore Ravens claimed Diontae Johnson off waivers one day after the Houston Texans release...

The Baltimore Ravens claimed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/102590" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/102590">Diontae Johnson</a> off waivers one day after the Houston Texans released the wide receiver, according to the league's transaction wire.Johnson is ineligible to play in the postseason and won't officially join the Ravens until Feb. 10, one day after the Super Bowl. However, he's an impending unrestricted free agent.By claiming Johnson, Baltimore could receive a compensatory pick in the 2026 draft depending on his contract in free agency.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Johnson asked the Texans to release him, <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43429044/sources-ravens-claim-wr-diontae-johnson-waivers">ESPN's DJ Bien-Aime</a> reports.The 28-year-old was upset in the locker room after Houston's wild-card round victory over the Los Angeles Chargers due to his lack of playing time, per<a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43413481/wr-diontae-johnson-waived-2-games-texans"> Bien-Aime</a>. Teammates <a href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/82723">Joe Mixon</a> and <a href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/93981">Azeez Al-Shaair</a> reportedly tried to comfort and encourage him.Johnson suited up for the Ravens earlier this season, appearing in four games for Baltimore after the club acquired him from the Carolina Panthers before the trade deadline. However, the Ravens waived Johnson after he served a one-game suspension for conduct detrimental to the team following his refusal to enter a contest against the Philadelphia Eagles in December.The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted Johnson in the third round in 2019. His best season came in 2021 when he recorded 107 catches for 1,161 yards and eight touchdowns.

HOUSTON, TEXAS - DECEMBER 25: Wide receiver Diontae Johnson #18 of the Houston Texans stands on the sidelines during the national anthem prior to an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, at NRG Stadium on December 25, 2024 in Houston, Texas.

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Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh will undergo cardiac ablation and hip replacement su...

Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh will undergo cardiac ablation and hip replacement surgery this offseason, he said Wednesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/krisrhim1/status/1879628449998102858">ESPN's Kris Rhim</a>. Cardiac ablation is a procedure for treating irregular heartbeats. Harbaugh briefly left the sidelines of the Chargers' victory over the Denver Broncos in October due to an "atrial flutter."After the contest, Harbaugh said he dealt with the same issue during a game when he was the San Francisco 49ers' head coach. The 61-year-old added that he spoke with a cardiologist the following week and got good feedback from the doctor.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Got some test results back. 'The heart of an athlete' is the direct quote from my cardiologist. So, that made me feel good," he <a href="https://thescore.com/news/3100695">told</a> reporters. Harbaugh wore a heart monitor and took blood thinners for two weeks following the incident.The Chargers earned a playoff spot with an 11-6 record in their first year under Harbaugh, rebounding from a 5-12 season in 2023.

HOUSTON, TEXAS - JANUARY 11: Head coach Jim Harbaugh of the Los Angeles Chargers stands on the sidelines during the national anthem prior to an AFC Wild Card game against the Houston Texans, at NRG Stadium on January 11, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

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