The Houston Texans are signing defensive end Danielle Hunter to a one-year, $40.1-million extensi...

The Houston Texans are signing defensive end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/60658" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/60658">Danielle Hunter</a> to a one-year, $40.1-million extension that's fully guaranteed, sources told <a href="https://x.com/Schultz_Report/status/2029743838764409102?s=20">NFL insider Jordan Schultz</a>.The new contract locks up Hunter through the 2027 campaign. This marks the third consecutive fully guaranteed deal Hunter has signed with Houston since joining the club in 2024, Schultz adds.Hunter recorded 15 sacks and 22 quarterback hits last season en route to earning second-team All-Pro honors. He also posted 83 pressures, the fifth most among all defenders in the NFL.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 31-year-old has consistently been one of the best pass-rushers in the league in recent years. His 60 sacks compiled since 2021 rank only behind the totals of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87669" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87669">Myles Garrett</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/74678" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/74678">T.J. Watt</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161667" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161667">Micah Parsons</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/72083" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/72083">Trey Hendrickson</a>.Hunter and fellow edge rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188133" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188133">Will Anderson</a> are crucial to Houston's defense, which finished second in EPA/play and success rate in 2025, according to <a href="https://rbsdm.com/">Ben Baldwin's database</a>. Anderson just completed his third season in the league and is now eligible for a contract extension.Before joining the Texans, Hunter spent the first eight years of his career with the Minnesota Vikings. He's accumulated 140 tackles for loss and 114.5 sacks in 153 games since entering the league as a third-round pick in 2015.

KANSAS CITY, MO - DECEMBER 07: Houston Texans defensive end Danielle Hunter (55) pursues a play in the second quarter of an NFL game between the Houston Texans and Kansas City Chiefs on December 7, 2025 at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, MO.

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Report: Texans signing Hunter to 1-year, $40.1M extension

The Indianapolis Colts are discussing potential trades involving linebacker Zaire Franklin, sourc...

The Indianapolis Colts are discussing potential trades involving linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87862" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87862">Zaire Franklin</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/2029710323192668516?s=20">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.Indianapolis is currently $4 million over the salary cap, according to <a href="https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/cap">Spotrac</a>, and intends to shed enough salary to get under the cap before the new league year begins March 11.Franklin is under contract through the 2027 campaign after signing a three-year, $31-million extension in 2024. His deal carries cap hits of over $8 million in 2026 and 2027.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 29-year-old started every game over the last two campaigns. After leading the league in tackles (173) in 2024, Franklin recorded 125 tackles, two sacks, and one forced fumble last season while playing over 95% of the Colts' defensive snaps.Franklin, whom Indianapolis selected in the seventh round of the 2018 draft, has spent his entire eight-year career with the team.On Tuesday, Indianapolis used the transition tag on quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97984" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97984">Daniel Jones</a>, guaranteeing him a one-year, $37.833-million contract for 2026 if he doesn't reach an extension with the Colts or sign an offer sheet from another interested team.Wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174038" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174038">Alec Pierce</a>, who recorded a career-high 1,003 receiving yards last season, is set to become an unrestricted free agent. The Colts <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3489020" href="https://thescore.com/news/3489020">reportedly</a> informed the 25-year-old that they want him back next season, but a new deal hasn't been agreed upon."I love Indy," Pierce said Wednesday on "<a href="https://x.com/UpAndAdamsShow/status/2029240156452978802?s=20">Up &amp; Adams</a>.""But at this point," he added, "I've kind of earned the right to explore free agency, see what's out there, and make a decision that's best for my career and for my family."

HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 04: Zaire Franklin #44 of the Indianapolis Colts celebrates during an NFL football game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on January 4, 2026 in Houston, Texas.

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Report: Colts shopping Franklin

Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott is excited after owner and general manager Jerry Jones said last...

Cowboys quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/50470" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/50470">Dak Prescott</a> is excited after owner and general manager Jerry Jones said last week that he envisioned Dallas "being aggressive" in free agency."Heck yeah, most definitely," Prescott said Wednesday when asked if he was fired up by Jones' comments, according to <a href="https://www.dallascowboys.com/news/dak-prescott-hoping-free-agency-gives-cowboys-a-big-jump">team website writer Todd Yarvish</a>. Prescott added, "Especially when he said ... no redshirts."He explained, "We've got a coach (Brian Schottenheimer) in his second year. We had some ups and downs and shined some good moments last year. This is the year that you make a big jump, and getting big-time players who can help immediately is a part of that."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Dallas <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3491214" href="https://thescore.com/news/3491214">reportedly</a> restructured Prescott's, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174001" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174001">Tyler Smith's</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/120335" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/120335">CeeDee Lamb's</a> contracts Wednesday. The moves freed up around $66 million to make the Cowboys cap compliant, and they have other simple ways to create more than $50 million in cap space, according to <a href="https://x.com/spotrac/status/2029219454198902948?s=20">Spotrac</a>."The only way to push more is for me to go borrow some of my future," Jones said at the scouting combine. "Expect me to go borrow some of my future. ... I want to do everything we possibly can to stop somebody and to basically win some third downs more than we did last year. So I think that would be the area that you would see me bust the budget."Jones also said the team can't wait for players who aren't ready in 2026.Dallas is coming off a 7-9-1 season and has failed to make the playoffs in back-to-back campaigns. Defense was the team's biggest issue: The Cowboys ranked last in points per game and EPA/play, according to <a href="https://rbsdm.com/stats/stats/">Ben Baldwin's database</a>. Their 511 total points surrendered was the most they've allowed in a single season in franchise history.Free agents can begin negotiating with teams when the legal tampering window opens March 9.

LANDOVER, MD - DECEMBER 25: Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) stands on the field during game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Washington Commanders on December 25, 2025 at Northwest Stadium in Landover, MD.

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Dak: Cowboys can make 'big jump' if they're aggressive in free agency

The Minnesota Vikings are expected to release defensive lineman Jonathan Allen, sources told ESPN...

The Minnesota Vikings are expected to release defensive lineman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/78271" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/78271">Jonathan Allen</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JFowlerESPN/status/2029332702319493230?s=20">ESPN's Jeremy Fowler</a>.Allen signed a three-year, $60-million deal with Minnesota in 2025. Minnesota is currently more than $40 million over the salary cap, and the move will save the Vikings $6.53 million, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/player/jonathan-allen/5601">Over the Cap</a>.The 31-year-old suited up in all 17 regular-season games in his only campaign with the Vikings, recording 68 tackles and 3.5 sacks. He played 75.9% of defensive snaps, the highest rate among Minnesota defensive linemen in 2025.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Vikings veterans <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/68677" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/68677">Javon Hargrave</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/74334" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/74334">Aaron Jones</a> were <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3488840" href="https://thescore.com/news/3488840">reportedly</a> informed that they will be released as well. Minnesota is also <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3490397" href="https://thescore.com/news/3490397">reportedly</a> shopping pass-rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97160" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97160">Jonathan Greenard</a>, who carries a $22.6-million cap hit in 2026.The Commanders selected Allen in the first round of the 2017 draft. The Alabama product spent the first eight years of his career in Washington.

ARLINGTON, TX - DECEMBER 14: Jonathan Allen #93 of the Minnesota Vikings looks on from the sideline during the national anthem prior to an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Arlington, Texas.

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Report: Vikings expected to release Allen

Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman is staying firm on his high asking price in any...

Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman is staying firm on his high asking price in any trade for star receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/111194" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/111194">A.J. Brown</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/DMRussini/status/2029198592779436527?s=20">The Athletic's Dianna Russini</a>.Teams are reportedly still interested in acquiring the three-time Pro Bowl wideout while understanding it will take a significant package.Philadelphia is seeking compensation similar to what the Dallas Cowboys gave up to acquire <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/110862" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/110862">Quinnen Williams</a> from the New York Jets in terms of a "first-round pick with a second-round sweetener," reports <a href="https://x.com/nflnetwork/status/2029227051761250599?s=20">NFL Network's Mike Garafolo</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>New York traded Williams to Dallas for a 2026 second-round pick, a 2027 first-rounder, and defensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="" href="">Mazi Smith</a>.The Eagles don't feel much urgency to move on from the wideout, Garafolo reports, although Brown expressed frustration with his role in 2025.The 28-year-old is under contract through the 2029 campaign after signing a three-year extension in 2024. Philadelphia would have to eat a $43.4-million dead cap charge if it traded Brown before June 1, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/player/a-j-brown/7842">Over the Cap</a>."When we talk about getting back to a Super Bowl and winning a championship, that's really a great credit to the amount of players we have who can play at an incredibly high level," Roseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3486146" href="https://thescore.com/news/3486146">said</a> at the NFL combine last week. "A.J. is one of those guys. A.J. is a great player."When we talk to Sean (Mannion, the Eagles' new offensive coordinator) and talk to him about his system, his vision for A.J. is a huge part of that. We got to get better, and you don't get better by just sacrificing great players. We look forward to improving and adding on."Brown has been with the Eagles since 2022. He posted 78 receptions for 1,003 yards and seven touchdowns in 15 games last season.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - DECEMBER 14: A.J. Brown #11 of the Philadelphia Eagles celebrates a touchdown against the Las Vegas Raiders during the third quarter at Lincoln Financial Field on December 14, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Report: Eagles want 1st- and 2nd-rounder for Brown

The New York Giants are releasing linebacker Bobby Okereke, sources told NFL insider Jordan Schul...

The New York Giants are releasing linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/85081" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/85081">Bobby Okereke</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/Schultz_Report/status/2029006592771813692?s=20">NFL insider Jordan Schultz</a>.Okereke has been with the Giants since 2023 when he signed a four-year, $40-million contract. He spent the first four seasons of his NFL career with the Indianapolis Colts and entered the league as a third-round pick in 2019.The 29-year-old's 143 tackles last season ranked 10th league-wide. He suited up in all 17 regular-season games and played 99% of the Giants' defensive snaps.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>New York will save $9 million against its 2026 salary cap by releasing the veteran linebacker, according to <a href="https://x.com/rydunleavy/status/2029009446437843107?s=20">Ryan Dunleavy of the New York Post</a>. Okereke's departure marks the first big personnel move of the John Harbaugh coaching era. Okereke posted 385 tackles, seven forced fumbles, and 5.5 sacks during his three-year Giants tenure.

PITTSBURGH, PA - OCTOBER 28: Bobby Okereke #58 of the New York Giants in action against the Pittsburgh Steelers on October 28, 2024 at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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Report: Giants to release Okereke

The Rams and Matthew Stafford have discussed a potential extension that would keep the quarterbac...

The Rams and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/680" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/680">Matthew Stafford</a> have discussed a potential extension that would keep the quarterback in Los Angeles beyond the 2026 season, head coach Sean McVay told reporters Tuesday.Stafford announced in his MVP trophy acceptance speech that he won't retire and will return for an 18th season. The 38-year-old has negotiated a new contract each of the last two offseasons, but his current deal is set to expire after next campaign."We've had great dialogue," McVay said when asked whether Stafford would play on the final year of his contract, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/48091436/sean-mcvay-says-rams-having-great-dialogue-matthew-stafford-new-deal">ESPN's Sarah Barshop</a>. "I think the good thing is that communication that exists. (I) feel confident about being able to work those things out.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"We were obviously really fired up, had a sense that that was the direction it was going to go, but that's always the first, that's always as important as anything is having a guy like him excited and motivated to continue to play at a good clip."Along with his first MVP award, Stafford earned first-team All-Pro honors in 2026 to cap off the best season of his career. He led the league in passing yards (4,707) and passing touchdowns (46) while completing 65% of his throws.The Rams lost the NFC championship to the Seattle Seahawks, but Stafford finished the game with 390 total yards, three touchdowns, and a 127.6 passer rating.Stafford has been with the Rams for five seasons since being acquired in a trade with the Detroit Lions. In his first year with the team, the Rams won Super Bowl LVI, the franchise's first Lombardi Trophy since the 1999 season."I do think everything starts with that position ... so you don't take for granted how lucky you are to have a guy like him running the show," McVay said. "And that's why we want to do as good a job as we can of taking advantage of these opportunities."The Rams have the ninth-most cap space in the league at just over $42 million, according to <a href="https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/cap">Spotrac</a>. Safety <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/119852" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/119852">Kam Curl</a>, cornerback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174045" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174045">Roger McCreary</a>, and tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/53604" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/53604">Tyler Higbee</a> are some Rams players set to become unrestricted free agents next week.

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - JANUARY 10: Head coach Sean McVay of the Los Angeles Rams talks with Matthew Stafford #9 during the second quarter of an NFL wild card playoff game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on January 10, 2026 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

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McVay: Rams having 'great dialogue' with Stafford about extension

Los Angeles Chargers edge rusher Khalil Mack intends to play in 2026, reports NFL Network's Ian R...

Los Angeles Chargers edge rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/33866" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/33866">Khalil Mack</a> intends to play in 2026, reports <a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/khalil-mack-intends-to-play-in-2026">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>.Mack, who turned 35 in February, is set to become an unrestricted free agent next week. Last offseason, he signed a one-year, $18-million deal to return to the Chargers.Los Angeles considers retaining Mack a priority and will attempt to re-sign him, Rapoport adds. The veteran pass-rusher only suited up in 12 contests last season due to an elbow injury but still posted 32 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and four forced fumbles.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Chargers currently have the fourth-most cap space at just under $85 million, according to <a href="https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/cap">Spotrac</a>. Guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/173978" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/173978">Zion Johnson</a>, wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/44826" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/44826">Keenan Allen</a>, and edge rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161657" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161657">Odafe Oweh</a> are other key Chargers players set to hit the open market."They know we want them back," Hortiz said of Mack and Oweh during the NFL combine in Indianapolis, according to <a href="https://www.chargers.com/news/joe-hortiz-mike-mcdaniel-odafe-oweh-combine">team reporter Eric Smith</a>. "I think when players go into free agency once the season ends, it takes a little bit of time, but we'll keep chipping away at it and see if we can get something done with them."Mack has appeared in 62 games since joining the Chargers in 2022, racking up 60 quarterback hits and 36.5 sacks over four seasons.

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 11: Khalil Mack #52 of the Los Angeles Chargers runs around the edge during an NFL wild card playoff game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

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Report: Pending free agent Mack intends to play in 2026

The Arizona Cardinals are interested in signing pending free-agent quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, a...

The Arizona Cardinals are interested in signing pending free-agent quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/43662" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/43662">Jimmy Garoppolo</a>, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/48045815/2026-nfl-combine-latest-buzz-news-rumors-free-agency-draft-qbs-trades-offseason">ESPN's Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano</a>.New head coach Mike LaFleur is considered to have a very close relationship with Garoppolo, with a source telling Fowler, "that's his guy."Garoppolo, 34, has spent the last two seasons with the Los Angeles Rams, where LaFleur worked under Sean McVay as the team's offensive coordinator. He's only started one game for L.A., completing 27 of 41 passes for 334 yards with two touchdowns and one interception in the 2024 regular-season finale.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Las Vegas Raiders signed Garoppolo to a three-year, $67.5 million contract in March 2023, but the team benched him after six starts the following season and then released him the next offseason.Garoppolo also started 55 games for the San Francisco 49ers from 2017-22, with the team posting a 38-17 record during that stretch. He led the 49ers to two NFC Championship Games and an appearance in Super Bowl LIV, which they lost to the Kansas City Chiefs.Meanwhile, Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray, who's under contract through the 2028 season, will likely be released barring a trade, according to <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/2028156530806157709?s=20">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>. Since being drafted by Arizona in 2019, the 28-year-old has missed 27 regular-season games due to various injuries.Jacoby Brissett is also under contract for next season at $4.8 million. He started 12 games in Murray's absence during the 2025 campaign, throwing for 3,336 yards with 23 touchdowns and eight interceptions. However, the Cardinals went 1-11 in those contests.

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - JANUARY 10: Jimmy Garoppolo #11 of the Los Angeles Rams warms up before the NFC Wild Card Playoff game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on January 10, 2026 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

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Report: Cards interested in signing pending free agent Garoppolo

The Indianapolis Colts have informed pending free-agent wide receiver Alec Pierce that he won't h...

The Indianapolis Colts have informed pending free-agent wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174038" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174038">Alec Pierce</a> that he won't hit the open market, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/48045815/2026-nfl-combine-latest-buzz-news-rumors-free-agency-draft-qbs-trades-offseason">ESPN's Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano</a>.Indianapolis will reportedly place the franchise tag on Pierce if the two sides can't agree on a long-term extension before the new league year begins on March 11. The tag price would be around $27 million for a one-year, fully guaranteed deal.Pierce has been with the Colts since they selected him in the second round of the 2022 draft. He's coming off a career year in which he posted 47 receptions for 1,003 yards and six touchdowns. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 25-year-old led the NFL in yards per reception each of the last two years. He's also just the second player since 1982 to record back-to-back campaigns with at least six receiving touchdowns and an average of 20-plus yards per catch, according to <a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/top-101-nfl-free-agents-of-2026-who-are-the-best-players-available">NFL Network's Gregg Rosenthal</a>.Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97984" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97984">Daniel Jones</a>, who helped Pierce record his first 1,000-yard receiving season in 2025, is set to become an unrestricted free agent as well. Jones would also be a tag candidate if he can't reach an agreement with the team, according to Fowler and Graziano. The 28-year-old tore his Achilles in early December after leading the Colts to an 8-5 record in 13 starts.Unrestricted free agents can begin negotiating with teams when the tampering window opens on March 9.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - DECEMBER 22: Alec Pierce #14 of the Indianapolis Colts looks on from the field during an NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 22, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Report: Colts told Pierce he'll remain in Indy on tag or long-term deal

Lions running back David Montgomery refuted a report that stated he "wants out" of Detroit.  ESPN...

Lions running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/112122" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/112122">David Montgomery</a> refuted a report that stated he "wants out" of Detroit.<a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/48045815/2026-nfl-combine-latest-buzz-news-rumors-free-agency-draft-qbs-trades-offseason">ESPN's Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano</a> reported Sunday that 28-year-old is looking for a fresh start, but Montgomery later implied on social media that he doesn't want a change of scenery.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Damn, Dmo told you that ? <a href="https://t.co/ttg4DY6H99">https://t.co/ttg4DY6H99</a>— David Montgomery (@MontgomerDavid) <a href="https://twitter.com/MontgomerDavid/status/2028114460360273971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Montgomery, who's spent the last three seasons with the Lions, is under contract through the 2027 campaign after signing a two-year extension worth up to $18.75 million in October 2024. Detroit would seek a Day 3 draft pick in a potential trade for the running back, according to Fowler and Graziano.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Iowa State product has rushed for 2,506 yards during his Detroit tenure but logged a career-low 158 carries last season. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188196" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188196">Jahmyr Gibbs</a>, whom the Lions selected in the first round of the 2023 draft, became the team's primary ball carrier in 2025 while ranking fifth in the league in scrimmage yards and fourth in rushing touchdowns.Montgomery has recorded 6,115 career rushing yards and 63 total scores across seven seasons with the Lions and Chicago Bears.

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - DECEMBER 25: David Montgomery #5 of the Detroit Lions warms up before the game against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium on December 25, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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Lions' Montgomery refutes report saying he 'wants out'

The Los Angeles Kings fired head coach Jim Hiller, vice president and general manager Ken Holland...

The Los Angeles Kings fired head coach Jim Hiller, vice president and general manager Ken Holland announced Sunday.Hiller, 56, had been the head coach since the 2024 season after taking over on an interim basis. Los Angeles is 24-21-14 and in fifth place in the Pacific division.Associate coach D.J. Smith will take over as head coach for the rest of the season. Smith was hired in 2024 after spending the previous five seasons as the head coach of the Ottawa Senators. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Kings have lost five of their last six contests, including an 8-1 defeat to the Edmonton Oilers on Feb. 26. They sit three points outside the Western Conference wild-card picture. Los Angeles ranks 29th in goals for and 25th in goals allowed through 59 contests. They made a move to acquire Artemi Panarin in early February, who later signed a two-year, $22-million extension after only wanting to be traded to the Kings. The 34-year-old forward has logged three assists in three contests since joining L.A. Hiller finishes his Kings coaching career with a 93-58-24 record in 175 regular-season games.

LOS ANGELES, CA - FEBRUARY 28: Los Angeles Kings Jim Hiller speaks to the media after their victory against the Calgary Flames at Crypto.com Arena on February 28, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.

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Kings fire Jim Hiller, name D.J. Smith interim coach

The Minnesota Vikings informed running back Aaron Jones and defensive tackle Javon Hargrave that ...

The Minnesota Vikings informed running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/74334" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/74334">Aaron Jones</a> and defensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/68677" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/68677">Javon Hargrave</a> that the team will release them at the start of the new league year barring a trade, sources told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/2028142706757656921?s=20">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.Jones' release will save Minnesota $7.75 million against its cap, while Hargrave' will free up $10.9 million, Schefter adds.Other candidates whom the Vikings could cut to add cap space are center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/57173" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/57173">Ryan Kelly</a> and defensive lineman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/78271" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/78271">Jonathan Allen</a>, according to <a href="https://x.com/alec_lewis/status/2028143609568964762?s=20">The Athletic's Alec Lewis</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Jones, 31, spent the past two seasons with Minnesota after joining the club in 2024. He re-signed on a two-year contract worth up to $20 million last offseason.The veteran appeared in 29 contests with the Vikings, totaling 1,686 rushing yards and seven scores on 387 attempts. He missed five games last year due to a hamstring injury suffered in Week 2, which ultimately landed him on injured reserve.Jones, who's racked up 10,309 scrimmage yards over his nine-year career, played his first seven seasons in Green Bay after being selected in the fifth round of the 2017 draft out of UTEP.Hargrave, 33, signed a two-year, $30-million deal in free agency last year following his release from the San Francisco 49ers. He played in 16 games in 2025, totaling 3.5 sacks and 52 tackles.

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - DECEMBER 14: Aaron Jones Sr. #33 of the Minnesota Vikings participates in warmups prior to a game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Arlington, Texas.

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Report: Vikings to release Jones, Hargrave barring trade

Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman poured cold water on the idea of trading wide r...

Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman poured cold water on the idea of trading wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/111194" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/111194">A.J. Brown</a> this offseason."When we talk about getting back to a Super Bowl and winning a championship, that's really a great credit to the amount of players we have who can play at an incredibly high level," Roseman told <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2LpfeWS6Cc">Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio</a> at the NFL combine. "A.J. is one of those guys. A.J. is a great player."When we talk to Sean (Mannion) and talk to him about his system, his vision for A.J. is a huge part of that. We got to get better, and you don't get better by just sacrificing great players. We look forward to improving and adding on."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Meanwhile, head coach Nick Sirianni wouldn't confirm if the wideout will be back in 2026 when he met with reporters Tuesday."Will A.J. be here next season? I think we're still in a spot, like, I can't guarantee how anything is going to play out into next season," Sirianni <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3485058" href="https://thescore.com/news/3485058">said</a>.Brown, who's under contract through the 2029 campaign, signed a three-year, $96-million extension with $84-million guaranteed in 2024. Philadelphia would take on a $43.8-million dead cap hit next season if it trades him before June 1. However, the team could save more than $100 million over multiple years by moving him, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/player/a-j-brown/7842">Over The Cap</a>.The 28-year-old has been the subject of trade rumors after expressing displeasure with his role last year, though he <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3460926" href="https://thescore.com/news/3460926">said</a> in February that he's excited to work with the team's newly hired coaches next season.Mannion, who replaced Kevin Patullo as offensive coordinator in late January, will be the Eagles' fifth OC in as many seasons. The 33-year-old spent the last two years on Matt LaFleur's staff in Green Bay, including as the Packers' quarterbacks coach in 2025.Mannion, a third-round pick out of Oregon State in 2017, played quarterback under Sean McVay, Kevin O'Connell, and Kevin Stefanski during his six-year NFL career."Sean will have a different spin on (the offense) than Kevin had and Kellen (Moore) had," Roseman said.He added, "Certainly you see the people that Sean's played for, the people that he's learned from, the systems that they've had, and the things he's taken from them. The way he was able to articulate his vision for our offense ... it was exciting."Brown has played four seasons in Philadelphia after being acquired in a trade from the Tennessee Titans in 2022. He's recorded 339 catches for 5,034 yards and 32 touchdowns in 62 regular-season games since joining the Eagles.

LANDOVER, MD - DECEMBER 20: Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown (11) prepares before the Philadelphia Eagles versus Washington Commanders National Football League game at Northwest Stadium on December 20, 2025 in Landover, MD.

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Eagles' Roseman: Brown 'huge part' of OC Mannion's vision for offense

The Arizona Cardinals and quarterback Kyler Murray haven't talked since last season ended, a sour...

The Arizona Cardinals and quarterback Kyler Murray haven't talked since last season ended, a source told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/48025726/source-kyler-murray-cardinals-talked-refuting-gm">ESPN's Josh Weinfuss</a>.This report contradicts a statement made earlier Tuesday by Cardinals general manager Monti Ossenfort, who told reporters he's been in contact with Murray about his future with the franchise."Yeah, I've always had a good dialogue with Kyler," Ossenfort said at the NFL Scouting Combine, according to Weinfuss. "And I'd say (last season) wasn't up to what Kyler wanted. It wasn't up to what any of us wanted as a season as a whole.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"And, so, when you have the kind of year that we had, there's a lot of room for improvement, and so we got to find a way to do that, not only at that position, in all positions, but that's what we're all focused on, is getting better and moving forward."Ossenfort added that "all options are on the table for us" regarding Murray. Arizona is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3460929" href="https://thescore.com/news/3460929">reportedly</a> exploring trade possibilities this offseason for the former first overall pick.Murray remains under contract through the 2028 campaign after signing a five-year, $230-million deal in 2022. If he's on the roster on the fifth day of the new league year, he'll earn a guaranteed $19.5-million roster bonus for the 2027 season.The 28-year-old started only five games in 2025 due to a foot issue. Injuries have limited Murray to just 41 of a possible 68 regular-season games since 2022. The Oklahoma product has also led Arizona to just one postseason appearance during his seven-year career."We're going to look at every avenue to improve, and we're going to continue and go through our process with that," Ossenfort said.Murray boasts a 38-48-1 career record as a starter, throwing for 20,460 yards with 121 touchdown passes and 60 interceptions.

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - OCTOBER 19: Kyler Murray #1 of the Arizona Cardinals looks on from the sideline against the Green Bay Packers during the NFL 2025 game at State Farm Stadium on October 19, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona.

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Report: Cards, Murray haven't talked since season ended

The San Francisco 49ers and veteran offensive tackle Trent Williams are struggling to bridge thei...

The San Francisco 49ers and veteran offensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14297" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/14297">Trent Williams</a> are struggling to bridge their differences in regards to his contract, which carries a $39-million cap hit for next season, sources told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/2026401082331771282?s=20">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.If the two sides can't reach a solution, Williams is expected to be released, Schefter adds.Williams is due to receive a $10-million bonus on April 1, which could be a self-imposed deadline for San Francisco to decide whether to keep him. The 49ers also have the option of designating Williams as a post-June 1 release, which would save them $25.5 million against their 2026 cap, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/player/trent-williams/1466">Over The Cap</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"What I'll tell you is that in recent weeks I've met with both Trent and with his agent, Vincent Taylor and had really good and substantive meetings," general manager John Lynch told reporters at the NFL Scouting Combine, according to <a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/niners-gm-john-lynch-we-ve-had-good-and-substantive-meetings-regarding-trent-williams-contract">NFL Network's Nick Shook</a>. "Here's what I know: Trent loves being a Niner. We love having Trent as a Niner, and it's up to us to figure that out and to thread that needle."Williams, who will be 38 years old at the start of next season, has been with the 49ers since 2020. He started 18 games during the 2025 campaign, including the team's two postseason contests, en route to earning second-team All-Pro honors.Williams has made 12 Pro Bowls during his 15-year career and three first-team All-Pro nods since joining San Francisco."There's some unique circumstances in that we all know what Trent is as a player," Lynch added. "How great of a player he's been. He's going to be 38 years old. So, there's some things that go into that. But I think we're all on the same page and feel very positive about where that's going."The 49ers currently have roughly $25 million in cap space, according to <a href="https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/cap">Spotrac</a>. Wide receivers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94099" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/94099">Jauan Jennings</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/80111" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/80111">Kendrick Bourne</a> and defensive end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/121788" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/121788">Yetur Gross-Matos</a> are a few of their players set to become unrestricted free agents in March.

HOUSTON, TX - OCTOBER 26: Trent Williams #71 of the San Francisco 49ers exits the field during an NFL football game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on October 26, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

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Report: 49ers, OL Williams at impasse over contract, could lead to release

Denver Broncos offensive coordinator Davis Webb will be the team's play-caller for the 2026 seaso...

Denver Broncos offensive coordinator Davis Webb will be the team's play-caller for the 2026 season, head coach Sean Payton told reporters Tuesday.Payton will relinquish his duties as the offensive play-caller for the first time since taking the head coaching position in 2023. He promoted Webb, who served as quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator last season, to offensive coordinator earlier in February."He's extremely talented. With regards to play-calling, I think he'll be really good at it," Payton said, according to <a href="https://x.com/mikeklis9news/status/2026416391780208985?s=20">Mike Klis of 9News</a>. "I would only (give up play-calling) if I felt like it would help our team. I'll still be involved with what we do offensively just like what we do defensively.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"But I do think he has a gift. I think he's real sharp. I'm glad he's on our staff. Typically, any decision we make like that is to benefit our team."Webb participated in several head coaching interviews this cycle prior to being promoted. The 31-year-old has been with Denver for all of Payton's tenure. He played quarterback in the NFL from 2017-23 after being selected in the third round of the 2017 draft. He suited up for the New York Giants, Buffalo Bills, and New York Jets but started just one game during his career.In 2011, Payton gave up play-calling during his time with the New Orleans Saints. However, he resumed the role the following season.The Broncos are coming off their second 14-win campaign in franchise history, which culminated in an AFC championship appearance. Denver's offense ranked 15th in EPA/play and 19th in success rate, according to <a href="https://rbsdm.com/stats/stats/">Ben Baldwin's database</a>.

Denver Broncos vs Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead

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Broncos OC Webb to call plays next season

Gunner Rivers is following in his dad's footsteps.   The four-star quarterback in the 2027 class ...

Gunner Rivers is following in his dad's footsteps. The four-star quarterback in the 2027 class - and son of former NFL star Philip Rivers - has committed to his dad's Alma mater, NC State, he announced Monday.Gunner made multiple trips to Raleigh during his recruiting cycle, including one in which NC State defeated North Carolina 42-19 in late November. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A trip to remember 🐺 <a href="https://t.co/DMxRaJni1e">pic.twitter.com/DMxRaJni1e</a>— Noah Moss (@NoahMoss2026) <a href="https://twitter.com/NoahMoss2026/status/1995968814413234585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Gunner is entering his senior campaign at St. Michael's High School in Alabama. He's listed on the <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-sports/football/recruiting/rankings/scnext300boys/_/class/2027/view/position/position/quarterback-pocket-passer">ESPN 300</a> as the 11th best quarterback in the class. Rivers is coming off a junior season in which he completed 237 of 343 passes for 3,176 yards with 46 touchdowns and five picks.Philip, who came out of retirement last NFL season to start three games for the Indianapolis Colts at 44 years old, spent four years at NC State from 2000 to 2003. He won ACC Player of the Year award in his final season, and his No. 17 has been retired by the Wolfpack. Philip has also been the head coach at St. Michael's since 2021 and is set to return to coach his son next season.NC State is coming off an 8-5 season and a 31-7 win over Memphis in the Gasparilla Bowl. Dave Doeren will enter his 14th season as the Wolfpack's head coach in 2026.

TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 19: an NC State Wolfpack helmet rests on the sideleins during the Gasparilla Bowl between the Memphis Tigers and the NC State Wolfpack on Friday, December 19, 2025 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL

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2027 QB Gunner Rivers, son of Philip, commits to NC State

The United States men's hockey team is relishing the opportunity to battle familiar foe Canada wi...

The United States men's hockey team is relishing the opportunity to battle familiar foe Canada with the gold medal on the line."It's the final that we wanted and the team that we wanted to play," winger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/10525" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/10525">Matt Boldy</a> said after Friday's semifinal victory over Slovakia, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/olympics/story/_/id/47989762/us-men-hockey-routs-slovakia-advances-gold-medal-game-vs-canada">ESPN's David Purdum</a>. "It's exciting for the fans and for hockey and everything like that."The United States and Canada entered the tournament as the two favorites, and both finished first in their respective groups before seeing off their semifinal opponents Friday with varying degrees of ease.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/3002" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/3002">Nathan MacKinnon</a> was the hero for Canada, scoring a power-play goal with under 40 seconds left to cement a 3-2 come-from-behind victory against Finland. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/4541" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/4541">Dylan Larkin</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/5611" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/5611">Tage Thompson</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12744" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12744">Jack Hughes</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/4558" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/4558">Jack Eichel</a> tallied four goals on 23 shots to chase Slovakia netminder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/15233" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/15233">Samuel Hlavaj</a> in the second frame of a one-sided 6-2 win.Canada and the U.S. have enjoyed a storied hockey rivalry that was reconvened at last year's 4 Nations Face-Off tournament.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/4560" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/4560">Connor McDavid</a> secured the overtime winner in the final for a 3-2 victory over the U.S. in the first best-on-best tournament featuring NHL players since the Sochi Olympics in 2014. A preliminary round game between the two teams included three fights in the opening nine seconds."Now that it's all set in stone, everything happens for a reason," forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/7845" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/7845">Brady Tkachuk</a>, who spearheaded one of the 4 Nations brawls, told reporters Friday. "We'll be looking forward to this one. You guys have been talking about it for a while. Now, you get to enjoy it."Canada and the U.S. will now meet in the Olympics for the first time since 2014. Canada owns a 2-0 record against the U.S. in gold-medal games, which came in 2002 and 2010."It's the matchup everyone wanted," <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/5520" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/5520">Zach Werenski</a> said after his three-assist showing versus Slovakia. "Now that it's finally here, we can kind of shift our focus to Canada."The men's Olympic hockey gold-medal game is scheduled for Sunday at 8:10 a.m. ET.

MILAN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 20: Brady Tkachuk #7 of Team United States celebrates after scoring a goal in the third period during the Men's Semifinals Playoff match between the United States and Slovakia on day fourteen of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena on February 20, 2026 in Milan, Italy.

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U.S. team: Gold-medal game with Canada 'final that we wanted'

Newly crowned Super Bowl champion Jaxon Smith-Njigba revealed the title he wants next: the NFL's ...

Newly crowned Super Bowl champion <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188171" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188171">Jaxon Smith-Njigba</a> revealed the title he wants next: the NFL's highest-paid wide receiver."I believe I deserve to be the highest paid in my position," the Seattle Seahawks wideout told <a href="https://x.com/MikeDugar/status/2024950287111520498?s=20">WFAA's Jonah Jovad</a>. "What I give to the game and the community, I give it my all. I think that's worth a lot more. I would play this game for free - I love this game so much - but you don't have to. And I'm learning to be a good businessman, and we need that check at the end of the day."The 24-year-old is coming off the best season of his career. He totaled 10 touchdowns and a league-leading 1,793 receiving yards on 119 receptions en route to earning the Offensive Player of the Year award and his first All-Pro selection.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Cincinnati Bengals star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161655" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161655">Ja'Marr Chase</a> reset the wide receiver market last March by signing a four-year, $161 million contract extension. The record deal put him ahead of the next highest-paid wideout - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/122708" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/122708">Justin Jefferson</a> - by over $5 million in average annual salary.Despite being eligible to sign an extension when the new league year begins in March, Smith-Njigba says he isn't in a rush to get a new contract done after helping the Seahawks secure a Lombardi Trophy."I'm really not too pressed right now to get it done," he added. "I know my time is coming, and when we get it done, it's gonna be a great deal."Seattle has $63.4 million in cap space, the sixth most in the league, according to <a href="https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/cap">Spotrac</a>. Seahawks players scheduled to hit the open market include Super Bowl MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174074" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174074">Kenneth Walker III</a>, fellow wideout <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174441" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174441">Rashid Shaheed</a>, and linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174075" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174075">Boye Mafe</a>.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JANUARY 25: Jaxon Smith-Njigba #11 of the Seattle Seahawks carries the ball after making a catch during the first quarter of the NFC Championship NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams, at Lumen Field on January 25, 2026 in Seattle, WA.

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Seahawks' Smith-Njigba: I deserve to be league's highest-paid WR

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Brenden Deeg

News editor

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