Month: September 2024

Jermaine Johnson on IR as Jets Elevate Jalyn Holmes, Call Up McCrary-Ball

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The New York Jets have placed edge rusher Jermaine Johnson on injured reserve after he ruptured his Achilles tendon during the Jets’ 24-17 victory over the Tennessee Titans last Sunday. Johnson, the No. 26 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, was injured late in the third quarter. His absence is a major blow to the team, as the standout player earned a Pro Bowl nod last season with impressive stats, including 7.5 sacks, 55 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 16 quarterback hits, and an interception returned for a touchdown.

As a rookie, Johnson, a product of Florida State, played 14 games and lined up for 312 defensive snaps. He contributed 2.5 sacks during his first season, and his continued development had made him a key part of the Jets’ defensive front.

In response to the injury, the Jets signed defensive lineman Jalyn Holmes from their practice squad to the active roster. Holmes, a 6-foot-5, 283-pound defender, was elevated for Week 1 and Week 2, contributing 4 tackles over 31 snaps. Originally drafted by the Minnesota Vikings out of Ohio State in 2018, Holmes spent three seasons with the Vikings before having stints with the Saints and Bears. He joined the Jets last season, appearing in five games and recording five tackles and a quarterback hit. Holmes re-signed with the team in March.

Additionally, the Jets have called up linebacker Marcelino McCrary-Ball from the practice squad for Thursday’s game against the New England Patriots. McCrary-Ball, a 6-foot, 214-pound linebacker, joined the Jets practice squad after training camp in August. He spent the majority of the 2023 season with the Jets after signing with the team in January. McCrary-Ball previously had two training camp stints with the San Francisco 49ers and joined the Jets midway through the 2023 season. He appeared in two games, taking 19 snaps on special teams.

With these roster moves, the Jets hope to fill the void left by Johnson’s injury and strengthen their defensive unit for their upcoming matchups.

Ravens Look to Avoid 0-3 Start as Cowboys Aim to Fix Defense

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As the Baltimore Ravens prepare to face the Dallas Cowboys in Week 3, both teams are dealing with significant pressure. The Ravens are off to a rocky start with an 0-2 record for the first time since 2015 and are desperate to avoid a devastating 0-3 beginning to the season. On the other side, the Cowboys are still recovering from their embarrassing 44-19 loss to the New Orleans Saints, a defeat that exposed major defensive issues. Both teams enter this pivotal game with much to prove.

Baltimore’s Urgency to Rebound

The Ravens, who had the best regular season record last year, are reeling after a frustrating start. Despite outgaining the Kansas City Chiefs in their season opener, Baltimore couldn’t hold on, losing 27-20 after surrendering a fourth-quarter lead. Last week’s 26-23 defeat to the Las Vegas Raiders stung even more, with the Ravens losing on a last-minute field goal after holding a 10-point lead in the fourth quarter.

Baltimore linebacker Odafe Oweh emphasized the importance of the team getting back on track, saying, “We’re trying to right our wrongs (and) get our pride back… Everyone is pretty focused and understands what we have to do.” Oweh also acknowledged that despite their struggles, the team remains determined not to let things spiral into an 0-3 start. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson echoed this sentiment, noting that the locker room isn’t moping or pointing fingers, but instead is focused on turning things around.

Cowboys’ Defensive Struggles

The Cowboys, who started the season with a victory over the Cleveland Browns, are still reeling from last week’s disastrous loss to the Saints. Dallas allowed six touchdowns on New Orleans’ first six drives, giving up a total of 44 points in a game that saw the defense fall apart. First-year defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer has been tasked with repairing the damage ahead of the Ravens game.

Zimmer is no stranger to tough situations, recalling his first game as Dallas’ defensive coordinator during the infamous “pickle juice” game in 2000, where the Cowboys allowed the Philadelphia Eagles to rush for 306 yards. He vowed to fix things then, and now faces a similar challenge.

“We’ve got to get things tightened up so we don’t have another slide like we did last week,” said Cowboys cornerback Jourdan Lewis. “And I know they’re thinking the same thing.”

Key Matchups and Uncertainties

Lamar Jackson is set to return to AT&T Stadium, where he was drafted by the Ravens with the 32nd overall pick in 2018. Since then, he has become an MVP and one of the league’s most dynamic playmakers. Jackson will look to exploit the Cowboys’ struggling defense, which gave up 190 rushing yards and allowed two long touchdown passes against the Saints.

Meanwhile, the Cowboys’ offense continues to face questions at running back. Ezekiel Elliott and Rico Dowdle have both been limited to 56 yards rushing through two games. Derrick Henry, in his first season with the Ravens after eight years in Tennessee, will be a key player to watch as he looks to become the first Ravens back to score in each of his first three games.

Both teams enter this game with a sense of urgency. The Ravens are fighting to avoid an 0-3 start, while the Cowboys are eager to fix their defensive woes and get back to their winning ways. Sunday’s matchup will be a test of resilience for both franchises.

Cowboys Stars Lamb, Diggs Uncertain for Week 3 Showdown vs. Ravens

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The Dallas Cowboys are preparing for a crucial Week 3 NFL clash against the Baltimore Ravens, but uncertainty looms over the availability of two of their key players, CeeDee Lamb and Trevon Diggs. After suffering a disappointing 44-19 defeat to the New Orleans Saints in Week 2, the Cowboys are eager to bounce back. However, injuries to Lamb and Diggs may affect their ability to secure a victory.

On Wednesday, both Lamb and Diggs were listed as non-participants in practice due to injuries. Lamb is dealing with an ankle issue, while Diggs is nursing a foot injury. According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, their statuses for the upcoming game remain in question as both players work toward recovery. The Cowboys are hopeful for a swift and safe return for both, but their absence could significantly impact the team’s performance against a strong Ravens squad.

CeeDee Lamb’s Stellar 2023 and 2024 Contributions

CeeDee Lamb is coming off a remarkable All-Pro  season in 2023, where he totaled a career-high 1,749 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. His dynamic playmaking ability solidified his role as the centerpiece of the Cowboys’ offense. In the first two games of 2024, Lamb has continued to make an impact, recording 151 yards and one touchdown on nine receptions. He hauled in 90 yards on four catches in the Cowboys’ loss to the Saints in Week 2.

Lamb’s potential absence would leave a noticeable void in the Cowboys’ offensive attack, as his speed and route-running have been crucial to Dallas’ game plan.

Trevon Diggs’ Ongoing Injury Struggles

Trevon Diggs has faced injury challenges in recent seasons, playing only two games in both 2022 and 2023. Coming into 2024, Diggs was determined to regain his form and strengthen the Cowboys’ defense. Through the early part of the season, he has already made an impact with eight solo tackles, one interception, and two passes defended.

His absence would be a blow to a Cowboys secondary that relies on his playmaking ability to disrupt opposing offenses.

As the Cowboys approach their Week 3 matchup with the Ravens, the status of CeeDee Lamb and Trevon Diggs will be closely monitored. Their availability could be pivotal as Dallas seeks to rebound and avoid falling to 1-2 on the season.

NFL Expert Proposes Trade Solution for Dolphins, 49ers’ Weak Spots

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As the NFL season progresses toward Week 3, injuries have already started to impact several teams, including the Miami Dolphins and San Francisco 49ers. With both teams missing key players, a proposed trade by an NFL insider could address their weaknesses and provide much-needed reinforcements for the rest of the season.

Injury Woes for Dolphins and 49ers

The Dolphins enter their upcoming game against the undefeated Seattle Seahawks without starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, a significant blow to their offense. Meanwhile, the 49ers face the winless Los Angeles Rams without star players Christian McCaffrey and Deebo Samuel, two of their most crucial offensive playmakers. The absence of these stars creates major gaps in their respective lineups, making it difficult to maintain their high performance levels.

To address these challenges, an NFL insider has proposed a trade that could benefit both teams. According to *The Athletic’s* Matt Barrows, a potential swap involving a Miami running back and a San Francisco quarterback could help solve their current issues.

Trade Proposal: Running Backs for Quarterbacks

Miami’s running back group is one of the deepest in the league, featuring veteran Raheem Mostert, rookie De’Von Achane, and backups like Jeff Wilson Jr. While Mostert has been effective, the Dolphins also have young talent in the wings, making him or Wilson expendable for the right deal. In contrast, the 49ers have recently placed McCaffrey on injured reserve, leaving them thin at the running back position and heavily reliant on backups like Jordan Mason.

Barrows suggests that Miami could trade one of its running backs in exchange for a backup quarterback from San Francisco, who could provide the Dolphins with much-needed depth behind Skylar Thompson. He mentioned, “The 49ers need a reliable running back, and the Dolphins seem to need a quarterback. The Dolphins have an abundance of runners, and the 49ers have two backup quarterbacks. Conclusion: Joshua Dobbs for Raheem Mostert. Or maybe Brandon Allen for Jeff Wilson Jr. Who says no?”

This proposal could help Miami stabilize its quarterback situation in the absence of Tagovailoa, while providing the 49ers with a proven running back who knows their system, given the ties between 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan and Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel.

A Win-Win Solution?

Both teams stand to gain from this potential trade. The Dolphins would get a quarterback more familiar with the offensive system, giving them a more experienced backup. Meanwhile, the 49ers would receive a reliable running back who could fill the void left by McCaffrey’s injury and keep their run-heavy offense moving.

Ultimately, the decision rests on how much the Dolphins trust their current quarterback depth and whether the 49ers are willing to part with one of their quarterbacks for much-needed offensive reinforcements. The trade could be a win-win situation, helping both teams address their immediate needs as they push for success in the highly competitive NFL season.

Luisangel Acuña Delivers Big for Mets, Homers in Win Over Nationals

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Luisangel Acuña, the New York Mets’ newly promoted shortstop, is making an immediate impact in his Major League debut.

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Jets’ Injury Woes Deepen as Patriots Await in Crucial Week 3 Matchup

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As the New York Jets gear up for their highly anticipated Week 3 clash against the New England Patriots on Thursday Night Football, they find themselves grappling with a mounting list of injuries, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. This matchup, a pivotal moment for both teams seeking to rise to 2-1 in the fiercely competitive AFC East, comes at a challenging time for the Jets, who are facing their third game in just 10 days.

The season started optimistically for the Jets, who managed to avoid major injuries during the offseason. However, the first two weeks of the regular season have told a different story. Key players on the defensive line have been sidelined, most notably Pro Bowl edge rusher Jermaine Johnson, who is out for the year with a torn Achilles. His absence leaves a significant void in the Jets’ pass rush.

Key Defensive Injuries

Adding to the defensive woes, linebacker C.J. Mosley, another critical piece of the Jets’ defense, exited Sunday’s game early with a toe injury. Mosley has not practiced this week, and his status for Thursday’s game remains uncertain. Head coach Robert Saleh indicated that Mosley is “50/50” for the Patriots game, though signs are pointing toward him missing the matchup. Should Mosley be inactive, Jamien Sherwood, who filled in admirably last Sunday, will likely get the start in his place.

On a more positive note, cornerbacks Michael Carter II and D.J. Reed appear to be trending toward playing this week. Both defensive backs have moved from limited participation to full participation in Tuesday’s walkthrough, signaling their readiness to return to the field. Carter has been managing an ankle injury, which limited his Week 2 snaps, while Reed, who missed last week’s game due to knee soreness, is expected to suit up for the critical division showdown.

Veteran Rest and Offensive Injuries

Veteran offensive tackle Tyron Smith continues to manage his workload through scheduled rest days. This approach is part of a long-term plan to preserve his health throughout the season, and he remains on track to play against the Patriots.

Meanwhile, running back Breece Hall appeared on the injury report with a quadriceps issue earlier this week, but his full participation in practice suggests that he will be available for the Thursday night game. Hall’s presence in the backfield will be essential as the Jets try to navigate the Patriots’ stout defense.

Mixed Injury Outlook for Week 3

While the potential return of Carter and Reed brings some optimism for the Jets’ secondary, the absence of Mosley would be a significant blow to the heart of their defense. The Jets’ early defensive depth is being tested, and with their captain potentially sidelined, the team faces an uphill battle as they prepare for their long-standing rivals, the Patriots.

The Jets’ ability to overcome these setbacks will be critical in determining the outcome of their Week 3 matchup. As both teams look to make their mark in a competitive AFC East, the Jets must rally around their healthy players and find a way to navigate the injuries that are threatening to derail their promising start to the season.

Warriors Deemed the Worst Fit for $215 Million Superstar

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The Golden State Warriors have been named the worst possible landing spot for Chicago Bulls’ star o, whose contract is valued at $215 million, according to Bleacher Report’s Andy Bailey. While LaVine is a two-time NBA All-Star, his playstyle does not align with the Warriors’ system, which emphasizes seamless ball and player movement rather than isolation-based offense. Bailey noted that LaVine’s “hooper” game would be difficult to integrate into Golden State’s fluid, team-oriented structure, stating that “LaVine probably isn’t the right source” to energize the Warriors’ offense.

Earlier in the offseason, the Bulls attempted to trade LaVine to the Warriors in exchange for Chris Paul and Andrew Wiggins. However, NBA insider Chris Haynes reported that Golden State rejected the offer, feeling the deal did not provide enough value. Consequently, the proposed trade fell through, and the Warriors eventually released Paul, who later signed with the San Antonio Spurs.

Warriors’ Cautious Approach to LaVine

Despite the Bulls’ willingness to part with LaVine, whose $215 million contract includes a substantial $48.9 million player option for the 2026-27 season, Golden State chose to decline the deal. ESPN’s Bobby Marks had reported earlier that LaVine’s market value was low due to his injury history and high salary. Even though the Bulls were reportedly willing to include a first-round pick to sweeten the offer, the Warriors saw LaVine’s declining health and hefty contract as too significant a risk.

LaVine, who has three years remaining on his contract, might benefit from a change of scenery. However, the Warriors decided that the potential long-term concerns of acquiring a high-priced player with a questionable health record outweighed the benefits.

Andrew Wiggins Faces Personal Loss

Amid these trade discussions, Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins is grieving the death of his father, former NBA player Mitchell Wiggins, who passed away last week at the age of 64. Wiggins has missed several games over the past two seasons due to his father’s serious health issues, which became public in 2022. The Warriors have supported Wiggins during this challenging time.

As Golden State navigates its roster and trade possibilities, the decision to pass on LaVine underscores their focus on maintaining long-term stability. The team appears to be avoiding the risks associated with adding a high-cost player with significant injury concerns.

Ezekiel Elliott Faces Fan Backlash as Cowboys’ Backfield Struggles

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Dallas Cowboys supporters were thrilled to see the team bring back running back Ezekiel Elliott during the offseason. However, what seemed like a promising reunion has quickly soured, leaving fans frustrated and disillusioned.

The Cowboys faced a tough reality check after their Week 2 loss to the New Orleans Saints. The defeat, especially at home, highlighted several of the team’s ongoing issues, particularly within their backfield. Through two games, Dallas ranks near the bottom of the league in rushing, managing only 85.0 yards per game. This lackluster performance is a far cry from the 112.9 rushing yards per game the team averaged last season, leaving fans disappointed with the current state of the run game, and especially Elliott.

Declining Performance: A Tough Pill to Swallow

Elliott’s return to Dallas has been less than impressive. While fans didn’t expect him to perform like he did in his prime years of 2016 or 2018, many hoped for more than what he’s delivered thus far. In his first two games, Elliott has managed only 56 rushing yards on 16 carries, scoring a single touchdown. His average of 3.5 yards per carry is identical to last year’s figure, when he played behind a struggling New England Patriots offensive line — a worrying sign for Dallas.

Expectations were high for Elliott to make improvements upon returning to familiar territory, but reality has been underwhelming. In Week 2, five of his six carries went for three or fewer yards, an indication that his once-dominant presence on the field is fading. Fans who once cheered for his big plays are now left wondering if Elliott still has what it takes to be effective at this stage of his career.

Despite his loyal fan base, it’s becoming increasingly clear that Elliott is no longer the force he once was. His athleticism has noticeably declined, and his reduced speed and strength are evident in his struggles. Pro Football Focus graded Elliott’s rushing performance at just 49.1, ranking him among the lowest-performing running backs in the league — a stark contrast to his previous status as one of the NFL’s elite.

Cowboys’ Offseason Decisions Under Scrutiny

The decision to bring Elliott back becomes more questionable when considering the Cowboys’ offseason choices. After letting Tony Pollard walk in free agency, Dallas passed on other high-profile free agents like Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry, only to settle for a declining Elliott. Fans and analysts alike are beginning to question the team’s judgment, particularly owner Jerry Jones’ commitment to the veteran running back.

Elliott’s struggles have not gone unnoticed on social media, where fans have been vocal in their criticism. One frustrated Cowboys supporter wrote, “Every single play that Ezekiel Elliott is the focus for the offense is a wasted rep.” Another fan lamented, “We really brought back an old Ezekiel Elliott,” expressing disappointment with the team’s decisions. These sentiments reflect a growing sense of frustration among the fan base, who are looking for answers as the team stumbles out of the gate this season.

As Dallas prepares for a challenging Week 3 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, the pressure is on for Elliott to step up. The Cowboys enter the game as 1.5-point underdogs, and the team could use a strong performance from their veteran running back to help turn things around. Whether Elliott can silence the critics and rediscover his form remains to be seen, but for now, the reunion that once sparked hope has left Cowboys fans with more questions than answers.

Steelers: Fields Impresses Without Turnovers, Eyes Third Start for Steelers

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Fields Impresses Without Turnovers, Eyes Third Start for Steelers
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields is making a strong case for another start after guiding the team to two back-to-back victories without turning the ball over. Steelers legend Ben Roethlisberger believes that Fields deserves a third straight start, citing his careful decision-making and ability to protect the football as key reasons.

Fields Avoiding Turnovers Under New Coordinator

Fields has excelled under first-year offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, who has implemented a simplified passing scheme that reduces the margin for error. According to ESPN’s Brooke Pryor, Fields is now averaging 6.1 air yards per attempt, a noticeable drop from his career average of 8.4. The result has been a career-high completion percentage of 69.8%, and perhaps more significantly, Fields has yet to throw an interception or lose a fumble this season.

For a quarterback who ranked among the league’s worst in turnovers over the past two seasons—committing 41 turnovers from 2021 to 2023—this new approach is paying off. Fields also took the second-most sacks during that period but has only been sacked four times in his two starts this year.

Smith’s “Game Manager” Approach to Fields

While Fields has not been lighting up the scoreboard, he has embraced the role of a game manager. In his first two games this season, Fields ranks 23rd in the league with a 41.8 adjusted QBR and 28th in passing yards with just 273 on the season. He’s tossed only one touchdown pass but has been efficient with 84 rushing yards on 22 carries, adding a versatile element to Pittsburgh’s offense.

ESPN’s Dan Graziano noted that Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin may still lean toward veteran Russell Wilson, who is recovering from a calf injury, as the team’s long-term starter. However, Fields’ turnover-free performances are giving the coaching staff something to think about, especially with Wilson not expected to be 100% for Pittsburgh’s next game against the 2-0 Los Angeles Chargers.

Steelers’ QB Dilemma: Fields or Wilson?

Heading into the Week 3 matchup against the Chargers, the Steelers are favored by two points. Tomlin faces a crucial decision: stick with Fields, who has protected the football and delivered back-to-back wins, or roll the dice on a banged-up Wilson, a proven but injured veteran.

As Fields eyes his third straight start, the Steelers are watching closely to see whether his improved efficiency and mistake-free play can keep them in the playoff race.