Football

49ers acquire K Zane Gonzalez in trade with Panthers

Josh Dubow, The Associated Press 2 minute read Yesterday at 7:12 PM CDT

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — The San Francisco 49ers have found their potential replacement for longtime kicker Robbie Gould after agreeing to acquire Zane Gonzalez from the Carolina Panthers on Friday.

The teams will exchange a conditional swap of late-round picks in the 2025 draft to complete the deal which will be finalized once Gonzalez passes a physical.

Carolina re-signed kicker Eddy Piñeiro on Thursday and planned to release Gonzalez before reaching the deal with San Francisco.

The Niners had been seeking a kicker since deciding not to bring back Gould as a free agent. The 40-year-old Gould joined the 49ers in 2017 and made 87.5% of his field goals over six seasons.

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Panthers agree to deal with receiver DJ Chark

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Panthers agree to deal with receiver DJ Chark

The Associated Press 2 minute read Yesterday at 5:17 PM CDT

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The Carolina Panthers have agreed to a deal with free-agent wide receiver DJ Chark, the team said Friday.

The 26-year-old Chark, a five-year veteran, had 30 receptions for 502 yards and three touchdowns for Detroit last season.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the NFL Network reported it was for one year.

Chark joins veteran Adam Thielen, who agreed to deal with Carolina on Sunday, as part of a revamped receiving corps for the Panthers, who traded their best wideout, D.J. Moore, to the Chicago Bears as part of a package for the top overall pick in the draft.

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Yesterday at 5:17 PM CDT

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The Carolina Panthers have agreed to a deal with free-agent wide receiver DJ Chark, the team said Friday.

The 26-year-old Chark, a five-year veteran, had 30 receptions for 502 yards and three touchdowns for Detroit last season.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the NFL Network reported it was for one year.

Chark joins veteran Adam Thielen, who agreed to deal with Carolina on Sunday, as part of a revamped receiving corps for the Panthers, who traded their best wideout, D.J. Moore, to the Chicago Bears as part of a package for the top overall pick in the draft.

Ravens agree to deal with WR Nelson Agholor

The Associated Press 1 minute read Preview

Ravens agree to deal with WR Nelson Agholor

The Associated Press 1 minute read Yesterday at 2:56 PM CDT

OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP) — The Baltimore Ravens agreed to a contract with wide receiver Nelson Agholor.

The team announced Friday that it had reached an agreement in principle with the 29-year-old, who caught 31 passes for 362 yards and two touchdowns with the New England Patriots last season.

Agholor played his first five NFL seasons with the Eagles, then one with the Raiders and two with the Patriots.

Baltimore could use some help at receiver after tight end Mark Andrews was the only Raven to surpass 500 yards receiving last season.

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Yesterday at 2:56 PM CDT

OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP) — The Baltimore Ravens agreed to a contract with wide receiver Nelson Agholor.

The team announced Friday that it had reached an agreement in principle with the 29-year-old, who caught 31 passes for 362 yards and two touchdowns with the New England Patriots last season.

Agholor played his first five NFL seasons with the Eagles, then one with the Raiders and two with the Patriots.

Baltimore could use some help at receiver after tight end Mark Andrews was the only Raven to surpass 500 yards receiving last season.

Raiders sign DT John Jenkins to free-agency contract

Mark Anderson, The Associated Press 1 minute read Preview

Raiders sign DT John Jenkins to free-agency contract

Mark Anderson, The Associated Press 1 minute read Yesterday at 2:37 PM CDT

HENDERSON, Nev. (AP) — Veteran defensive tackle John Jenkins signed a free-agent contract with the Las Vegas Raiders on Friday.

He most recently played for the Miami Dolphins the past two seasons.

Jenkins also played for the New Orleans Saints (2013-16), the Seattle Seahawks (2016), the Chicago Bears (2017, 2020) and the New York Giants (2018).

He has 212 career tackles. ___

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Yesterday at 2:37 PM CDT

HENDERSON, Nev. (AP) — Veteran defensive tackle John Jenkins signed a free-agent contract with the Las Vegas Raiders on Friday.

He most recently played for the Miami Dolphins the past two seasons.

Jenkins also played for the New Orleans Saints (2013-16), the Seattle Seahawks (2016), the Chicago Bears (2017, 2020) and the New York Giants (2018).

He has 212 career tackles. ___

AP source: Browns add free agent receiver Marquise Goodwin

Tom Withers, The Associated Press 1 minute read Preview

AP source: Browns add free agent receiver Marquise Goodwin

Tom Withers, The Associated Press 1 minute read Yesterday at 2:29 PM CDT

CLEVELAND (AP) — The Cleveland Browns added another speedy wide receiver Friday, agreeing to contract terms with free agent Marquise Goodwin, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press.

The 32-year-old Goodwin is getting a one-year deal, said the person, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the contract has not been signed.

Goodwin’s addition comes two days after the Browns acquired wide receiver Elijah Moore in a trade from the New York Jets. Goodwin spent last season with Seattle, finishing with 27 receptions for 387 yards and four touchdowns.

Goodwin gives the Browns more depth at wide receiver and another deep target for quarterback Deshaun Watson.

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Yesterday at 2:29 PM CDT

CLEVELAND (AP) — The Cleveland Browns added another speedy wide receiver Friday, agreeing to contract terms with free agent Marquise Goodwin, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press.

The 32-year-old Goodwin is getting a one-year deal, said the person, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the contract has not been signed.

Goodwin’s addition comes two days after the Browns acquired wide receiver Elijah Moore in a trade from the New York Jets. Goodwin spent last season with Seattle, finishing with 27 receptions for 387 yards and four touchdowns.

Goodwin gives the Browns more depth at wide receiver and another deep target for quarterback Deshaun Watson.

NFL to vote on changes to punts, kickoffs for safety

Josh Dubow, The Associated Press 4 minute read Preview

NFL to vote on changes to punts, kickoffs for safety

Josh Dubow, The Associated Press 4 minute read Yesterday at 12:08 PM CDT

The NFL will consider significant changes to the kicking game with the competition committee proposing that the league adopt the college rule that allows touchbacks on fair catches of kickoffs and moving the touchback spot on punts to the 25-yard line.

NFL executive Troy Vincent said Friday that the competition committee looked at various rules on kickoffs in college and the spring leagues to try to reduce injuries on what is one of the more dangerous plays.

Vincent said the league needs more data from an XFL rule that reduces high speed collisions by lining up coverage players 35 yards ahead of the kicker and 5 yards apart from blockers, but said that the college rule that allows fair catches to be treated like touchbacks will reduce injuries about “20 to 25%”

“It may not be perfect. I think it will warrant some good discussion on the floor,” Vincent said.

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Yesterday at 12:08 PM CDT

FILE - Troy Vincent, Executive Vice President of Football Operations at the NFL, speaks to reporters during NFL meetings in New York, Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021. The NFL will consider significant changes to the kicking game. Troy Vincent said Friday, March 24, 2023, that the competition committee looked at various rules on kickoffs in college and the spring leagues to try to reduce injuries on what is one of the more dangerous plays. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)

Outside linebacker Justin Hollins staying with Packers

The Associated Press 1 minute read Preview

Outside linebacker Justin Hollins staying with Packers

The Associated Press 1 minute read Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) — The Green Bay Packers re-signed outside linebacker Justin Hollins on Thursday.

Hollins recorded 2 1/2 sacks in six games for the Packers last season after they claimed him off waivers from the Los Angeles Rams on Nov. 24.

The 27-year-old Hollins played 34 games for the Rams from 2020-22 and was part of their 2021 Super Bowl championship team. He spent his rookie season with the Denver Broncos, who selected him out of Oregon in the fifth round of the 2019 draft. ___

AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl and https://twitter.com/AP_NFL

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Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) — The Green Bay Packers re-signed outside linebacker Justin Hollins on Thursday.

Hollins recorded 2 1/2 sacks in six games for the Packers last season after they claimed him off waivers from the Los Angeles Rams on Nov. 24.

The 27-year-old Hollins played 34 games for the Rams from 2020-22 and was part of their 2021 Super Bowl championship team. He spent his rookie season with the Denver Broncos, who selected him out of Oregon in the fifth round of the 2019 draft. ___

AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl and https://twitter.com/AP_NFL

Kicking it: Panthers re-sign Pineiro, release Gonzalez

Steve Reed, The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Kicking it: Panthers re-sign Pineiro, release Gonzalez

Steve Reed, The Associated Press 2 minute read Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The Carolina Panthers re-signed free agent Eddy Pineiro on Thursday and released Zane Gonzalez following two injury-riddled seasons.

Pineiro took over as the team’s kicker last season after Gonzalez was injured during a preseason game against the Buffalo Bills.

He went on to convert a 94.3% (33 of 35) of his field goal attempts last season, including 19 straight to finish the year. He also made 93.8% (30 of 32) of his extra points.

His 33 made field goals last season are second-most in Panthers history for a single season, behind 37 from John Kasay in 1996. Pineiro's field goal percentage is the second best in club history.

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Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The Carolina Panthers re-signed free agent Eddy Pineiro on Thursday and released Zane Gonzalez following two injury-riddled seasons.

Pineiro took over as the team’s kicker last season after Gonzalez was injured during a preseason game against the Buffalo Bills.

He went on to convert a 94.3% (33 of 35) of his field goal attempts last season, including 19 straight to finish the year. He also made 93.8% (30 of 32) of his extra points.

His 33 made field goals last season are second-most in Panthers history for a single season, behind 37 from John Kasay in 1996. Pineiro's field goal percentage is the second best in club history.

Bennett eager to hit CFL combine practice field

Dan Ralph, The Canadian Press 4 minute read Preview

Bennett eager to hit CFL combine practice field

Dan Ralph, The Canadian Press 4 minute read Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

Anthony Bennett can't wait to hit the practice field at the CFL combine.

The gregarious Regina Rams defensive lineman has no issues going through individual drills and testing. But his true passion is lining up in his stance, getting off the ball quickly and imposing his will on a rival offensive lineman.

And starting Friday, the six-foot-three, 230-pound Bennett will have ample opportunity to do just that at Edmonton's Commonwealth Stadium Field House. It will be the first of three straight practice days to conclude the combine.

"Oh yeah, I think that's the biggest opportunity to shine because you can't get anything better than old-fashioned competition," said the colourful Bennett. "Bottom line, on Friday, Saturday and Sunday I want to compete at a high level.

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Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

University of Regina Rams defensive end Anthony Bennett (right) was ranked No. 13 on winter Scouting bureau's top-20 list heading into the CFL Combine in Edmonton. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Piper Sports Photography/Regina Rams **MANDATORY CREDIT**

Moore doesn’t regret Jets past, excited to start with Browns

Tom Withers, The Associated Press 4 minute read Preview

Moore doesn’t regret Jets past, excited to start with Browns

Tom Withers, The Associated Press 4 minute read Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

CLEVELAND (AP) — Elijah Moore made headlines in New York last season for everything except clutch catches or touchdowns.

He grumbled about a diminished role as the Jets shuffled quarterbacks. He clashed with the offensive coordinator. He demanded a trade.

Mistakes? A few. Regrets? None.

“I wouldn’t do anything over,” he said.

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Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

FILE - New York Jets wide receiver Elijah Moore (8) runs with the ball against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 18, 2022, in East Rutherford, N.J. Moore spoke excitedly on Thursday, March 23, 2023, about joining the Cleveland Browns, who looking for another playmaker for QB Deshaun Watson and some needed speed, acquired him from the Jets in exchange for the No. 42 pick in this year's draft.(AP Photo/Adam Hunger, File)

Korte-Moore centre of attention at CFL combine

Dan Ralph, The Canadian Press 5 minute read Preview

Korte-Moore centre of attention at CFL combine

Dan Ralph, The Canadian Press 5 minute read Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

At six foot five and 262 pounds, Lake Korte-Moore definitely stands out in a crowd.

So it's no surprise the University of British Columbia defensive lineman is the centre of attention at the CFL combine in Edmonton. But Korte-Moore entered the individual testing Thursday with the added burden of being the top-ranked player in the field of 67 Canadians auditioning before league officials.

"I feel like maybe a few years ago it would've hit me hard," Korte-Moore said. "But there's one thing I've learned in my life and that's there's nothing you can do about the past.

"It's all about looking and moving forward. If something goes bad, I'm just going to work my butt off to do much better and show my abilities. If teams like what they see, then they do. I'm just going to be myself and play how I can."

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Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

UBC Thunderbirds' Lake Korte-Moore is shown during a Canada West football game against the Manitoba Bisons in Vancouver on October 23, 2021. At six foot five and 262 pounds, Korte-Moore definitely stands out in a crowd. So it's no surprise the University of British Columbia defensive lineman is the centre of attention at the CFL combine in Edmonton. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO - UBC Athletics, Bob Frid **MANDATORY CREDIT**

Darren Waller’s journey to NFL success included obstacles

Rob Maaddi, The Associated Press 4 minute read Preview

Darren Waller’s journey to NFL success included obstacles

Rob Maaddi, The Associated Press 4 minute read Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

Darren Waller had just returned from his honeymoon with Las Vegas Aces star Kelsey Plum when the Raiders traded him across the country to the New York Giants.

Welcome to married life as a professional athlete.

“It’s been a lot of processing, a little bit of anxiety. I’m a human being and it’s a lot of change, a lot of new chapters,” Waller said on the AP Pro Football Podcast. “But just seeing how supportive my wife is about this new opportunity, we’ll make it work on the marriage front for sure. Then meeting everybody with the Giants organization and just seeing how they do things and the excitement they had to have me there, I think it’s going to be a great opportunity. So I’m excited.”

A Pro Bowl tight end in 2020, the 30-year-old Waller has missed 14 games because of injuries over the past two seasons. He had 107 catches for 1,196 yards and nine touchdowns in 2020 after a breakout season in 2019 when he had 90 receptions for 1,145 yards and three TDs.

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Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

FILE - Las Vegas Raiders tight end Darren Waller runs into the end zone to score on a 24-yard touchdown pass during the first half of an NFL football game between the San Francisco 49ers and Las Vegas Raiders, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023, in Las Vegas. Tight end Darren Waller is being traded to the New York Giants, who will send the Las Vegas Raiders a third-round draft pick, two people familiar with the deal said Tuesday, March 14, 2023. (AP Photo/John Locher, File)

Raiders re-sign Keelan Cole, sign cornerback Duke Shelley

Mark Anderson, The Associated Press 1 minute read Preview

Raiders re-sign Keelan Cole, sign cornerback Duke Shelley

Mark Anderson, The Associated Press 1 minute read Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

HENDERSON, Nev. (AP) — The Las Vegas Raiders re-signed wide receiver Keelan Cole and signed free-agent cornerback Duke Shelley on Thursday.

Cole caught 10 passes for 141 yards and a touchdown last season. He previously played for the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2017-20 and the New York Jets in 2021.

Shelley played for the Chicago Bears in 2019-21 and then joined the Minnesota Vikings last season. He has 11 starts over 41 career games with 84 tackles and 12 pass breakups. Shelley started five games last season with career highs of 31 tackles and eight pass breakups. He also had an interception.

___

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Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

FILE - Minnesota Vikings cornerback Chandon Sullivan (39) runs during an NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, Nov., 2022, in Landover, Md. The Minnesota Vikings are entering free agency with a salary cap crunch and pressing needs yet again at a vital position. Their top three cornerbacks from last season are all hitting the market: Patrick Peterson, Duke Shelley and Chandon Sullivan.(AP Photo/Daniel Kucin Jr., File)

49ers sign free agent DL Austin Bryant

The Associated Press 1 minute read Preview

49ers sign free agent DL Austin Bryant

The Associated Press 1 minute read Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — The San Francisco 49ers signed free agent defensive lineman Austin Bryant to a one-year contract on Thursday.

Bryant adds depth for San Francisco after the team lost several defensive linemen in free agency already. Key contributors Samson Ebukam, Charles Omenihu, Jordan Willis and Hassan Ridgeway have all signed with other teams.

Bryant was originally drafted by Detroit in the fourth round in 2019. In four years with the Lions, he had 65 tackles, 4 1/2 sacks and one pass defensed in 33 games.

He played nine games last season with nine tackles and one pass defensed.

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Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — The San Francisco 49ers signed free agent defensive lineman Austin Bryant to a one-year contract on Thursday.

Bryant adds depth for San Francisco after the team lost several defensive linemen in free agency already. Key contributors Samson Ebukam, Charles Omenihu, Jordan Willis and Hassan Ridgeway have all signed with other teams.

Bryant was originally drafted by Detroit in the fourth round in 2019. In four years with the Lions, he had 65 tackles, 4 1/2 sacks and one pass defensed in 33 games.

He played nine games last season with nine tackles and one pass defensed.

Will Levis set for pro day, another chance to impress scouts

Rob Maaddi, The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Will Levis set for pro day, another chance to impress scouts

Rob Maaddi, The Associated Press 3 minute read Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

Will Levis had no hesitation about throwing at the NFL scouting combine because he wanted to “show off” his “canon” of an arm.

He’ll get another opportunity to impress scouts at Kentucky’s pro day Friday.

“It’s been a lot of fun, a lot of new experiences, a lot of new people in my life, and it’s just been very challenging, very difficult,” Levis said about the pre-draft process on the AP Pro Football Podcast. “Just in taking the challenges head on and remembering to have fun with it. This is going to be a time of my life that I’ll remember for the rest of my life. And I’ll remember that I did it the right way and I did what I needed to do to help live out my dream.”

The 23-year-old, strong-armed quarterback is expected to be one of the top players selected in next month’s NFL draft. Levis, Ohio State’s C.J. Stroud, Alabama’s Bryce Young and Florida’s Anthony Richardson are the top four prospects at the most important position in football.

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Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

Kentucky quarterback Will Levis warms up before he runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, March 4, 2023. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

Bears sign LB, special teams contributor Cole to 1-year deal

The Associated Press 1 minute read Preview

Bears sign LB, special teams contributor Cole to 1-year deal

The Associated Press 1 minute read Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

LAKE FOREST, Ill. (AP) — The Chicago Bears signed linebacker and special teams contributor Dylan Cole to a one-year contract on Thursday.

Cole has 104 tackles, two sacks and two interceptions in 61 games over six seasons with the Houston Texans and Tennessee Titans. He played in 15 games and made eight starts last season — his second with the Titans — and set a career high with 50 tackles. He also played 74% of Tennessee's special teams snaps.

Cole signed with Houston in 2017 after going undrafted out of Missouri State in his hometown of Springfield.

___

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Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

LAKE FOREST, Ill. (AP) — The Chicago Bears signed linebacker and special teams contributor Dylan Cole to a one-year contract on Thursday.

Cole has 104 tackles, two sacks and two interceptions in 61 games over six seasons with the Houston Texans and Tennessee Titans. He played in 15 games and made eight starts last season — his second with the Titans — and set a career high with 50 tackles. He also played 74% of Tennessee's special teams snaps.

Cole signed with Houston in 2017 after going undrafted out of Missouri State in his hometown of Springfield.

___

NFL tight end Foster Moreau says he has cancer

Mark Anderson, The Associated Press 1 minute read Preview

NFL tight end Foster Moreau says he has cancer

Mark Anderson, The Associated Press 1 minute read Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

NFL tight end Foster Moreau posted on Twitter on Wednesday he was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma during a physical with the New Orleans Saints.

“I’m grateful for the support and thankful for people who have stood firm with me,” Moreau tweeted. “There hasn’t been a single step I’ve taken without hundreds of people lighting the path before me, and I will continue to seek their guidance.

The 25-year-old Moreau added he was stepping away from football for now and vowed to beat the cancer "and get back to doing what I love!”

Moreau is a free agent who played the previous four seasons for the Raiders, who took him in the fourth round of the 2019 draft out of LSU when the Las Vegas team was based in Oakland. Last season, he set career highs with 33 catches for 420 yards. Moreau also caught two touchdown passes.

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Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

FILE -Las Vegas Raiders tight end Foster Moreau (87) watches from the sideline during the first half of an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Saturday, Jan. 7, 2023, in Las Vegas. NFL free-agent tight end Foster Moreau was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma during a physical with the New Orleans Saints, he posted Wednesday, March 22, 2023 on Twitter.(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri, File)

Vikings agree to terms with ex-Rams WR Powell, LB Reeder

The Associated Press 1 minute read Preview

Vikings agree to terms with ex-Rams WR Powell, LB Reeder

The Associated Press 1 minute read Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

EAGAN, Minn. (AP) — The Minnesota Vikings agreed to terms Wednesday with two free agents: wide receiver Brandon Powell and linebacker Troy Reeder.

The contracts were pending completion of their physical exams.

Powell played the past two seasons with the Los Angeles Rams and had 24 catches for 156 yards in 2022. He initially latched on as an undrafted free agent out of Florida in 2018 with the Detroit Lions. Powell is also a return specialist, with 57 career kickoff returns and 49 career punt returns. He had a 61-yard punt return for a touchdown against the Vikings on Dec. 26, 2021.

Reeder also played his first three years in the league with the Rams. He spent the 2022 season with the Los Angeles Chargers. Reeder, who has 25 career starts in 66 games, made the Rams as an undrafted free agent out of Delaware in 2019. He's a high school teammate of Vikings right tackle Brian O'Neill, from Wilmington, Delaware.

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Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

EAGAN, Minn. (AP) — The Minnesota Vikings agreed to terms Wednesday with two free agents: wide receiver Brandon Powell and linebacker Troy Reeder.

The contracts were pending completion of their physical exams.

Powell played the past two seasons with the Los Angeles Rams and had 24 catches for 156 yards in 2022. He initially latched on as an undrafted free agent out of Florida in 2018 with the Detroit Lions. Powell is also a return specialist, with 57 career kickoff returns and 49 career punt returns. He had a 61-yard punt return for a touchdown against the Vikings on Dec. 26, 2021.

Reeder also played his first three years in the league with the Rams. He spent the 2022 season with the Los Angeles Chargers. Reeder, who has 25 career starts in 66 games, made the Rams as an undrafted free agent out of Delaware in 2019. He's a high school teammate of Vikings right tackle Brian O'Neill, from Wilmington, Delaware.

Tunsil looks to lead Texans after signing 3-year extension

Kristie Rieken, The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Tunsil looks to lead Texans after signing 3-year extension

Kristie Rieken, The Associated Press 3 minute read Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

HOUSTON (AP) — The Houston Texans don’t yet know who their quarterback will be next season and beyond.

But whoever it is will be well protected with left tackle Laremy Tunsil signing a three-year $75 million extension that makes him the highest-paid left tackle in the NFL and will keep him in Houston through the 2026 season.

Tunsil was entering the final year of a three-year $66 million contract extension he signed in 2020.

“I’m glad to be here with H-Town for another four years,” he said Wednesday. “It was very important to stay here. I consider this home.”

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Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

FILE -Houston Texans offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil (78) is introduced before an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs Sunday, Dec. 18, 2022, in Houston. Laremy Tunsil signed a three-year $75 million extension that makes him the highest-paid left tackle in the NFL and will keep him in Houston through the 2026 season, Wednesday, March 22, 2023. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip, File)

Browns get speed, land WR Moore from Jets, swap draft picks

Tom Withers, The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Browns get speed, land WR Moore from Jets, swap draft picks

Tom Withers, The Associated Press 3 minute read Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

CLEVELAND (AP) — Elijah Moore wanted out of New York. The Browns wanted speed.

Both got their wish.

Cleveland added another offensive playmaker and target for quarterback Deshaun Watson on Wednesday, acquiring Moore in a trade with the Jets, who have overhauled their receiving group this offseason — perhaps in advance of quarterback Aaron Rodgers' arrival.

The Browns have agreed to send the No. 42 pick in this year's draft to the Jets for Moore and the No. 74 selection. The deal's completion is pending a physical.

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Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

FILE -New York Jets wide receiver Elijah Moore (8) warms up before an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2022, in Minneapolis. Adding a target for quarterback Deshaun Watson, the Cleveland Browns have acquired wide receiver Elijah Moore in a trade from the New York Jets, a person familiar with the deal told The Associated Press on Wednesday, March 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Bruce Kluckhohn, File)

Raiders sign TE Austin Hooper, CB David Long Jr.

Mark Anderson, The Associated Press 1 minute read Preview

Raiders sign TE Austin Hooper, CB David Long Jr.

Mark Anderson, The Associated Press 1 minute read Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

HENDERSON, Nev. (AP) — The Las Vegas Raiders might have found their replacement for Darren Waller, signing tight end Austin Hooper on Wednesday.

Las Vegas also announced it had signed cornerback David Long Jr., who played for the Los Angeles Rams the past four seasons.

Hooper caught 41 passes for 444 yards and two touchdowns last season with the Tennessee Titans.

He was a two-time Pro Bowl selection when he played for the Atlanta Falcons, where he spent his first four seasons after being drafted in the third round in 2016. Hooper then played two years for the Cleveland Browns.

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Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

HENDERSON, Nev. (AP) — The Las Vegas Raiders might have found their replacement for Darren Waller, signing tight end Austin Hooper on Wednesday.

Las Vegas also announced it had signed cornerback David Long Jr., who played for the Los Angeles Rams the past four seasons.

Hooper caught 41 passes for 444 yards and two touchdowns last season with the Tennessee Titans.

He was a two-time Pro Bowl selection when he played for the Atlanta Falcons, where he spent his first four seasons after being drafted in the third round in 2016. Hooper then played two years for the Cleveland Browns.

AP source: Jets, WR Mecole Hardman agree on 1-year deal

Dennis Waszak Jr., The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

AP source: Jets, WR Mecole Hardman agree on 1-year deal

Dennis Waszak Jr., The Associated Press 3 minute read Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

The New York Jets and former Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Mecole Hardman agreed to terms on a one-year deal Wednesday, according to a person with knowledge of the contract.

The speedy and versatile Hardman gives the Jets and new offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett another playmaker on what could be a much-improved offense.

The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the Jets hadn't announced the agreement. ESPN first reported Hardman and the Jets agreed to terms on a contract. Financial terms weren't immediately available, but NFL Network reported it could be worth up to $6.5 million.

The 25-year-old Hardman spent his first four seasons with the Chiefs after being a second-round draft pick out of Georgia in 2019. He has 151 catches for 2,088 yards and 16 touchdowns in his career and has rushed 20 times for 125 yards and two scores.

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Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

FILE - Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Mecole Hardman warms up before an NFL football game against the Houston Texans Sunday, Dec. 18, 2022, in Houston. The New York Jets and former Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Mecole Hardman have agreed to terms on a one-year deal, Wednesday, March 22, 2023, a person with knowledge of the deal told The Associated Presson condition of anonymity because the Jets hadn't announced the agreement. (AP Photo/Eric Christian Smith, File)

AP source: Browns bringing back LB Walker on 1-year deal

Tom Withers, The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

AP source: Browns bringing back LB Walker on 1-year deal

Tom Withers, The Associated Press 2 minute read Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

CLEVELAND (AP) — Free agent linebacker Anthony Walker Jr. is returning to the Browns after missing most of last season with an injury that rocked Cleveland's defense, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press on Wednesday.

Walker has agreed to a one-year contract with the Browns, said the person who spoke on condition of anonymity because the deal hasn't been signed.

The 27-year-old Walker tore a quadriceps tendon in Week 3 against the Pittsburgh Steelers and missed the rest of 2022. Without him, Cleveland's defense not only lost an experienced player but one of its top communicators and leaders.

ESPN first reported Walker's return.

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Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

FILE - Cleveland Browns linebacker Anthony Walker Jr. (5) walks off the field at the end of an NFL preseason football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Friday, Aug. 12, 2022, in Jacksonville, Fla. Free agent linebacker Anthony Walker Jr. is returning to the Browns after missing most of last season with an injury that rocked Cleveland's defense, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press on Wednesday, March 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Gary McCullough, File)

CFL combine has evolved since O'Shea took part

Dan Ralph, The Canadian Press 5 minute read Preview

CFL combine has evolved since O'Shea took part

Dan Ralph, The Canadian Press 5 minute read Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

The CFL combine has come a long way since Mike O'Shea auditioned for league officials.

In 1993, O'Shea was a top pro prospect at the University of Guelph. After participating in the combine in Winnipeg, O'Shea was taken in the first round, fourth overall, of the CFL draft by Edmonton.

O'Shea never made it to Edmonton. He was dealt shortly afterwards to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, where he spent his first three CFL seasons before signing with the Toronto Argonauts as a free agent.

But the Winnipeg Blue Bombers head coach is in Alberta's capital for this week's 2023 combine, where 67 Canadian university players and 21 Globals will audition before CFL officials. The league's Global and Canadian drafts are both May 2.

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Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

Winnipeg Blue Bombers head coach Mike O'Shea looks on during second half football action against the Toronto Argonauts in the 109th Grey Cup at Mosaic Stadium in Regina, Sunday, Nov. 20, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Frank Gunn

AP source: Steve Apostolopoulos joins bidding for Commanders

Stephen Whyno, The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

AP source: Steve Apostolopoulos joins bidding for Commanders

Stephen Whyno, The Associated Press 2 minute read Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

WASHINGTON (AP) — Canadian billionaire Steve Apostolopoulos has joined the bidding for the NFL’s Washington Commanders, according to a person with knowledge of the situation.

The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Wednesday because details of the sale process are not being publicized.

Apostolopoulos joins groups led by Josh Harris and Tilman Fertitta in getting approved by the league to bid on the team. Apostolopoulos is a Toronto native who went to Harvard and is the founder of a private equity venture company.

A spokesperson said the team had no comment on the ongoing situation. ESPN was first to report Apostolopoulos entering the bidding and touring the team's facilities.

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Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

WASHINGTON (AP) — Canadian billionaire Steve Apostolopoulos has joined the bidding for the NFL’s Washington Commanders, according to a person with knowledge of the situation.

The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Wednesday because details of the sale process are not being publicized.

Apostolopoulos joins groups led by Josh Harris and Tilman Fertitta in getting approved by the league to bid on the team. Apostolopoulos is a Toronto native who went to Harvard and is the founder of a private equity venture company.

A spokesperson said the team had no comment on the ongoing situation. ESPN was first to report Apostolopoulos entering the bidding and touring the team's facilities.

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