Category: NFL

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.

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.

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.

Aidan Hutchinson Shines, But Lions’ Offensive Woes Continue

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In a game filled with mixed emotions, the Detroit Lions found themselves facing a frustrating defeat against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, falling 20-16 in Week 2. While the defense, led by Aidan Hutchinson, continued to showcase its strength, the Lions’ offense struggled to capitalize on key opportunities, leaving many questions unanswered as they look ahead.

Hutchinson Dominates on Defense

One of the bright spots for the Lions was Aidan Hutchinson, who delivered a standout performance for the second straight week. Hutchinson, who led the league in pressures during Week 1, dominated the Buccaneers’ offensive line, notching an impressive 4.5 sacks in this game alone. His relentless pressure was a key factor in keeping the Lions competitive, bringing his season total to 5.5 sacks—more than half the teams in the NFL at this point.

The Lions’ defense, which has held opponents to 20 points or fewer in each of their first two games, is proving to be a tough and reliable unit. Cornerback Carlton Davis and slot corner Amik Robertson continued to exceed expectations, while the Lions’ new 1-2 safety combination has already made crucial interceptions.

Hutchinson’s defensive impact was undeniable, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Lions’ offensive shortcomings. “It sucks,” Hutchinson said after the game. “But I was just talking to some guys, and I think this is gonna be really good for us. We had an early loss last year too… I think we’re gonna keep this one in perspective.”

Offensive Struggles Undermine Detroit’s Efforts

Despite their defensive prowess, the Lions’ offense fell short, especially in the red zone, where they converted just one of seven trips into a touchdown. Quarterback Jared Goff, while throwing for 307 yards, needed 55 pass attempts to do so, a reflection of the team’s inefficient offensive play. Goff’s performance was punctuated by a critical red-zone interception, one of several missed opportunities that could have swung the game in the Lions’ favor.

Goff’s connection with star receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown was a highlight, as St. Brown caught 11 passes for 119 yards. However, like the rest of the offense, their partnership lacked efficiency, with Goff targeting St. Brown 19 times to achieve those numbers. Sam LaPorta, the All-Pro tight end, was noticeably absent from the game plan, recording just two catches for 13 yards. His lack of involvement, particularly in the red zone, raised questions about the offensive strategy.

Dan Campbell, the Lions’ head coach, took responsibility for the team’s failures, particularly a miscue involving 18 players on the field that cost them a field goal opportunity before halftime. Campbell, visibly emotional, choked back tears in his postgame press conference, acknowledging that the team’s mistakes were costly. “It was a challenge today and we can do better,” Campbell admitted.

The Lions now sit at 1-1, mirroring their start to last season. Although there’s no cause for panic just yet, it’s clear that the offense needs to step up to match the defense’s level of play. If not, more tough losses could be on the horizon.

For Detroit, the focus now shifts to finding solutions on offense, particularly in finishing drives. While Hutchinson and the defense continue to deliver stellar performances, the Lions’ season will depend on whether they can get their offensive rhythm back on track.

Why Christian McCaffrey’s Absence Is Felt Deeply Despite 49ers’ Strong Offensive Stats

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Christian McCaffrey’s value to the San Francisco 49ers goes beyond mere statistics. Widely regarded as the NFL’s top running back, McCaffrey isn’t confined to just running the ball. His versatility makes him indispensable, whether it’s making tough runs, catching quick passes for first downs, or picking up blitzes to give his quarterback an extra moment for a big play.

Despite solid performances from backup Jordan Mason, the reality is clear: McCaffrey’s presence on the field is irreplaceable.

“He was the Offensive Player of the Year for a reason,” tight end George Kittle said. “He was in MVP talks for a reason. He had over 20 touchdowns because he does everything—running, catching, blocking. It adds another dimension to our game.”

McCaffrey’s Absence Felt in Critical Moments

That dimension was sorely missed during Sunday’s 23-17 loss to the Minnesota Vikings, and McCaffrey’s absence is expected to continue for at least three more games as he recovers from Achilles tendonitis, which landed him on injured reserve.

The 49ers’ offensive stats through the first two weeks of the season are still strong, even without McCaffrey. The team ranks fifth in yards per game (400), sixth in offensive efficiency (74.83), and ninth in expected points added (6.3). However, these numbers could be even better if they were more efficient on third downs, a key area where McCaffrey’s versatility makes a difference.

Struggles on Third Down Highlight the Gap

In the game against the Vikings, San Francisco converted only 3-of-13 combined third and fourth down attempts. This included a critical incompletion on fourth-and-goal from the Vikings’ 2-yard line, which led to a 97-yard touchdown from Sam Darnold to Justin Jefferson. The 49ers’ inability to convert on crucial downs resulted in just 17 points on the scoreboard.

“I think we were 2-of-9 on third down, and that usually doesn’t lead to touchdowns unless you’re doing it all on first and second down,” said head coach Kyle Shanahan. “Being 1-of-3 on fourth down doesn’t help either. It was a challenge, and we need to do better.”

McCaffrey’s absence is not just a void in one role—it’s a gap that affects the entire offense, and as the 49ers strive to improve, his return will be eagerly awaited.

Justin Jefferson Injured; Vikings’ Lead in Jeopardy vs. 49ers

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The Minnesota Vikings’ fortunes took a sharp turn when their star wide receiver, Justin Jefferson, left the field with a quad injury during their clash against the San Francisco 49ers. Jefferson’s absence in the late third quarter casts uncertainty over the team’s ability to maintain their 20-7 lead.

Injury Strikes at a Critical Moment

Justin Jefferson injury

Jefferson, a key player in the Vikings’ offense, was helped off the field, leaving his return uncertain. His injury poses a significant challenge for Minnesota, already coping with the absence of wide receiver Jordan Addison and tight end T.J. Hockenson, who is still recovering from an ACL injury. Jefferson’s sudden exit could further strain the team’s offensive capabilities, a blow made even more painful given his history of missing seven games last season due to a hamstring issue.

Jefferson’s Early Dominance

Before his injury, Jefferson was having a standout performance, amassing 133 receiving yards on four catches, including a stunning 97-yard touchdown—the longest of his career. His efforts not only helped propel the Vikings to an early lead but also added to his growing list of NFL records, underscoring his importance to the team’s offensive game plan.

With Jefferson sidelined, the Vikings face an uphill battle as the 49ers look to mount a comeback. The outcome of the game now hangs in the balance, as Minnesota hopes to hold onto their lead without their biggest playmaker.