Football – Winnipeg Free Press

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Winnipeg Blue Bombers’ Willie Jefferson re-signed with the team Thursday. The defensive lineman is chasing franchise and CFL records.

Bombers’ Jefferson wants to solidify his legacy in Blue and Gold

Joshua Frey-Sam 7 minute read Yesterday at 7:00 PM CST

How close Willie Jefferson came to wearing a different jersey in 2026 might never be uncovered, but it’s an outcome he at least considered.

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers star pass rusher revealed Friday that returning for a seventh season with the Blue and Gold — and 12th in the CFL — proved more challenging than it has been in other years, something that was made evident by the timing of his deal earlier this week.

The soon-to-be 35-year-old had never signed a contract this late in the off-season since becoming a member of the Bombers, and that was for a couple of reasons.

It took longer for the club and Jefferson — who represents himself in contract talks — to reach a mutual agreement on a salary, and the defensive end also claimed he wasn’t in a hurry either.

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Bears’ Cunningham and 49ers’ Williams are among 4 candidates interviewed in Falcons’ GM search

The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Bears’ Cunningham and 49ers’ Williams are among 4 candidates interviewed in Falcons’ GM search

The Associated Press 3 minute read Updated: Yesterday at 7:12 PM CST

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. (AP) — Chicago Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham and San Francisco 49ers director of scouting and football operations Josh Williams are among the latest general manager candidates interviewed by the Atlanta Falcons, the team announced Friday.

Cunningham and Williams first interviewed for the president of football position given to former longtime quarterback Matt Ryan. That interest makes them considered to be top candidates in the search for a general manager. Ryan is leading the search for the position as the latest step in the makeover of the team leadership.

The Falcons on Friday also interviewed Kansas City Chiefs assistant general manager Mike Bradway and Philadelphia Eagles senior personnel director Joe Douglas, the former New York Jets general manager.

Owner Arthur Blank fired coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot after an 8-9 finish, the team's eighth consecutive losing season. The Falcons hired former Cleveland coach Kevin Stefanski to replace Morris. On Thursday, Tommy Rees, who worked on Stefanski's staff in Cleveland, was named offensive coordinator after Stefanski retained Jeff Ulbrich as defensive coordinator.

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Updated: Yesterday at 7:12 PM CST

FILE - Chicago Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham poses for a photo April 28, 2022, in Lake Forest, Ill. (AP Photo, File)

Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski gets 2nd interview for Browns’ head coach opening

Joe Reedy, The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski gets 2nd interview for Browns’ head coach opening

Joe Reedy, The Associated Press 2 minute read Yesterday at 6:45 PM CST

CLEVELAND (AP) — Grant Udinski completed his second interview with the Cleveland Browns for their head coaching vacancy on Friday.

The 30-year old Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator had his first interview with the team on Jan. 17.

Udinski just completed his first season with the Jaguars. Even though coach Liam Coen called the offensive plays, Udinski directed a unit that was sixth in the league in scoring (27.9 points per game) and 11th in total offense (337.4 points per game).

Quarterback Trevor Lawrence accounted for 38 touchdowns (29 passing, nine rushing) as Jacksonville went 13-4 in the regular season and won the AFC South for the first time since 2022. The Jaguars lost to Buffalo in the wild-card round last Sunday.

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Yesterday at 6:45 PM CST

Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski walks the sideline during an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Titans 41-7. (AP Photo/Gary McCullough)

From ‘Steady Stiddy’ to starter, Broncos’ backup QB takes the spotlight with teammates’ trust

Arnie Stapleton, The Associated Press 6 minute read Preview

From ‘Steady Stiddy’ to starter, Broncos’ backup QB takes the spotlight with teammates’ trust

Arnie Stapleton, The Associated Press 6 minute read Yesterday at 6:38 PM CST

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — Even without Bo Nix, the Denver Broncos are radiating plenty of swagger heading into the frigid AFC championship game against the New England Patriots behind backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham.

“No, I don’t think the vibe’s any different,” right tackle Mike McGlinchey said after Friday's workout, part of which was outdoors in 20-degree temperatures and icy wind. “Obviously, it was a tough situation. You don't want to see a guy that's your leader and the life of your team go down, especially in such a big moment.

“But Stiddy's done an unbelievable job this week stepping in and commanding the huddle, commanding the team. He's ready for it and the rest of the team is, too.”

Stidham exudes a quiet confidence that long ago secured him the nickname “Steady Stiddy” and belies the fact that he'll throw his first pass in a game in more than two years Sunday.

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Yesterday at 6:38 PM CST

Denver Broncos quarterback Jarrett Stidham warms up before an NFL divisional round playoff football game against the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Sean McVay turns 40 with a new perspective on football and the same dreams for his Los Angeles Rams

Greg Beacham, The Associated Press 6 minute read Preview

Sean McVay turns 40 with a new perspective on football and the same dreams for his Los Angeles Rams

Greg Beacham, The Associated Press 6 minute read Yesterday at 6:15 PM CST

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Sean McVay will spend his 40th birthday on Saturday in the exact same way he spent the vast majority of his 30s.

He'll be preparing the Los Angeles Rams to play their hearts out.

“What’s a good birthday? When I’m working on my birthday, and if I’m working next week,” McVay said. “That would be a hell of a birthday. That’s the only present I want.”

This year, he'll be working to get the Rams ready for the NFC championship game on Sunday. If Los Angeles (14-5) beats the Seattle Seahawks (16-3), McVay will open his next decade by preparing to coach in his third Super Bowl — something no one has done at his age.

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Yesterday at 6:15 PM CST

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay speaks during a news conference at the team's training facility Friday, Jan. 23, 2026, in Los Angeles, ahead of the NFL football NFC Championship game against the Seattle Seahawks. (AP Photo/Caroline Brehman)

Canadian Football League salary cap to grow to over $6.2 million in 2026

The Canadian Press 1 minute read Preview

Canadian Football League salary cap to grow to over $6.2 million in 2026

The Canadian Press 1 minute read Yesterday at 5:59 PM CST

TORONTO - The Canadian Football League's salary cap will rise to over $6.2 million in 2026.

The CFL and its players' union made the announcement on Friday.

Revenue for the league reached $10 million more than the baseline established in 2024 when the CFL's collective bargaining agreement’s revenue growth sharing model was triggered for the first time since its implementation in 2022.

As a result, the CFL Players’ Association has allocated the majority of its share towards increasing the cap.

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Yesterday at 5:59 PM CST

Stewart Johnson, CFL Commissioner, talks with Winnipeg Blue Bomber fans in a “tail gate party” area prior to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and Edmonton Elks game in Winnipeg, Thursday, June 26, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods

Former 49ers quarterback John Brodie, an NFL MVP and a prolific passer, dies at 90

Josh Dubow, The Associated Press 4 minute read Preview

Former 49ers quarterback John Brodie, an NFL MVP and a prolific passer, dies at 90

Josh Dubow, The Associated Press 4 minute read Updated: Yesterday at 5:57 PM CST

John Brodie, who won an MVP award and was one of the NFL's most prolific passers during a 17-year career with the San Francisco 49ers, has died. He was 90.

The 49ers said Brodie's family said he died Friday. Brodie had a stroke on Oct. 24, 2000.

“The 49ers family is saddened to learn of the passing of one of the franchise’s all-time great players, John Brodie,” 49ers co-chairman Dr. John York said. “As a kid, my 49ers fandom began by watching John play quarterback on television. He displayed an incredible commitment toward his teammates and his support of the organization never wavered after his playing days.

"John became a dear friend of mine, and he will always be remembered as an important part of 49ers history. We express our deepest condolences to his wife, Sue, and the entire Brodie family.”

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Updated: Yesterday at 5:57 PM CST

FILE - John Brodie, veteran San Francisco 49ers quarterback, gets a free ride on the shoulders of an admiring crowd following their win over the Minnesota Vikings that gave the 49ers the Western Division championship in San Francisco, Dec. 16, 1972. (AP Photo, File)

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Buffalo Bills interview Philip Rivers for head coaching job

John Wawrow, The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Buffalo Bills interview Philip Rivers for head coaching job

John Wawrow, The Associated Press 3 minute read Updated: Yesterday at 5:39 PM CST

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — Philip Rivers interviewed with the Buffalo Bills for their head coaching job on Friday, the latest twist in a busy couple of months for one of the most prolific passers in NFL history.

The 44-year-old Rivers has no previous NFL coaching experience, having worked since his initial retirement from the league as a high school coach in his native Alabama. Last month, he ended his five-year retirement and finished the season with the Indianapolis Colts. Rivers started three games — all losses — in a failed attempt to salvage the Colts' playoff chances.

Rivers was the fourth candidate to interview since the Bills launched their search on Wednesday. Sean McDermott was fired Monday after going 98-50 and reaching the playoffs eight times in nine seasons, making the Bills the 10th team to replace a head coach this cycle.

The Bills have also interviewed former Giants coach Brian Daboll, who previously served as the team’s offensive coordinator; current offensive coordinator Joe Brady; and Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo. More meetings are scheduled through this weekend in a search process led by general manager Brandon Beane. Quarterback Josh Allen has been part of the search and is participating in meetings with candidates.

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Updated: Yesterday at 5:39 PM CST

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Philip Rivers speaks during a news conference following an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/AJ Mast)

Drake Maye aims to do what Tom Brady couldn’t with the Patriots: win a playoff game in Denver

Jimmy Golen, The Associated Press 4 minute read Preview

Drake Maye aims to do what Tom Brady couldn’t with the Patriots: win a playoff game in Denver

Jimmy Golen, The Associated Press 4 minute read Yesterday at 4:08 PM CST

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Drake Maye has a chance to accomplish something not even Tom Brady did with the Patriots.

Maye is hoping to beat the Broncos in the AFC championship game in Denver on Sunday and lead New England to the Super Bowl for the first time since 2018. The Patriots have never won a playoff game in Denver — losing all four tries, with Brady going 0-3.

“Just the AFC championship, the chance to go to the Super Bowl. That’d be huge,” Maye said. “Another road environment that’s had success in the past. … I know it would be a big-time win.”

The Patriots advanced to their 14th AFC championship game in the last 25 years on Sunday when they beat the Houston Texans 28-16 in Foxborough. Denver beat Buffalo 33-30 to reach the conference title game.

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Yesterday at 4:08 PM CST

New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) runs with teammates during a football availability, Friday, Jan. 23, 2026, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

Eric Bieniemy returns to Kansas City Chiefs as offensive coordinator

Dave Skretta, The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Eric Bieniemy returns to Kansas City Chiefs as offensive coordinator

Dave Skretta, The Associated Press 3 minute read Yesterday at 2:01 PM CST

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs are bringing back Eric Bieniemy to serve as their offensive coordinator next season.

The 56-year-old Bieniemy spent a decade working alongside coach Andy Reid in Kansas City, first over five seasons as the running backs coach and then five seasons as the offensive coordinator. He was part of the braintrust that helped turn Patrick Mahomes into one of the NFL's biggest stars and the Chiefs into a perennial Super Bowl contender.

Bieniemy took over Friday for Matt Nagy, who has been linked to several head coaching vacancies, and who may ultimately end up as the offensive coordinator elsewhere. Nagy recently interviewed for that position in Philadelphia.

"Thank you coach for everything! Made me a better player and man!” Mahomes told Nagy in a post on social media Friday.

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Yesterday at 2:01 PM CST

FILE - Washington Commanders offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy smiles before an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams, Dec. 17, 2023, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong, File)

Seahawks activate RB George Holani and TE Elijah Arroyo from IR ahead of NFC Championship game

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Seahawks activate RB George Holani and TE Elijah Arroyo from IR ahead of NFC Championship game

The Associated Press 2 minute read Yesterday at 1:40 PM CST

SEATTLE (AP) — Seattle Seahawks reserve running back George Holani and rookie tight end Elijah Arroyo were activated from injured reserve Friday morning ahead of Sunday's NFC championship game against the Los Angeles Rams.

The 26-year-old Holani landed on injured reserve after injuring his hamstring during the Seahawks’ 30-24 win against the Tennessee Titans on Nov. 23.

“It feels great to be back with the guys,” Holani said before Wednesday’s practice. “Been a while, so I’m excited to get back out there.”

Holani, who rushed for 73 yards and a touchdown on 22 carries in the regular season, could serve as the backup to Kenneth Walker III. Running back Zach Charbonnet, who led the Seahawks with 12 rushing touchdowns during the regular season, is out for the remainder of the playoffs with a knee injury that requires surgery. Holani’s potential return could be key for the Seahawks.

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Yesterday at 1:40 PM CST

Seattle Seahawks running back George Holani warms up during practice at the team's facilities ahead of the NFL football NFC Championship game, Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026, in Renton, Wash. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Colts confirm the FBI has opened an investigation into the death of former owner Jim Irsay

The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Colts confirm the FBI has opened an investigation into the death of former owner Jim Irsay

The Associated Press 3 minute read Updated: Yesterday at 2:26 PM CST

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — The FBI has opened an investigation into the death of former Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay, team officials confirmed Friday.

When Irsay died in May, the team issued a statement saying he died “peacefully in his sleep.” But in late August, The Washington Post reported Irsay continued to battle a longtime addiction to painkillers and that he had overdosed three times in the five years preceding his death.

“We are aware of the investigation, but at this time, we’ve not been contacted by the FBI or been served with any subpoenas,” the Colts said in Friday’s statement.

NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said the league would not comment on the report.

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Updated: Yesterday at 2:26 PM CST

FILE -Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay speaks during a news conference at the NFL football team's practice facility Nov. 7, 2022, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings, File)

WR Cooper Kupp remains invaluable to Seahawks ahead of NFC championship game against former team

Andrew Destin, The Associated Press 5 minute read Preview

WR Cooper Kupp remains invaluable to Seahawks ahead of NFC championship game against former team

Andrew Destin, The Associated Press 5 minute read Yesterday at 12:48 PM CST

RENTON, Wash. (AP) — Perhaps it was because of his ever-growing playoff beard that veteran wide receiver Cooper Kupp felt inclined to comment on how hot it was inside the Seattle Seahawks’ meeting room Thursday.

On a balmy January day in the Emerald City, Kupp stood before a gaggle of reporters in a tank top after cracking wise, just as he has so often in his first season with the Seahawks. But for those who know him best, it’s hardly a facade that Kupp puts on in front of the press.

Rather, it’s an extension of who the 32-year-old Kupp, in his ninth NFL season, is and always has been ahead of Sunday’s NFC championship game between the Seahawks and his former team, the Los Angeles Rams. He is consistently optimistic.

"He’s the same person every day, and you can count on him,” said Seahawks running back Cam Akers, who was also Kupp’s teammate with the Rams. “You can count on him to be exactly where you need him to be at the right time every time. So, consistency, being a true leader without having to say much.”

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Yesterday at 12:48 PM CST

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Cooper Kupp catches a ball during practice Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026, in Seattle at the team's facilities ahead of the NFL football NFC Championship game against the Los Angeles Rams. (AP Photo/John Froschauer)

Dolphins hire Atlanta’s Kyle Smith as assistant GM and Buffalo’s Chris Tabor to lead special teams

Alanis Thames, The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Dolphins hire Atlanta’s Kyle Smith as assistant GM and Buffalo’s Chris Tabor to lead special teams

Alanis Thames, The Associated Press 3 minute read Yesterday at 6:24 PM CST

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — The Miami Dolphins began putting together their new staff under head coach Jeff Hafley and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan, hiring former Bills special teams coordinator Chris Tabor for the same role and adding Kyle Smith as assistant GM, a person with knowledge of the moves told The Associated Press.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the team had not announced the hirings.

Tabor spent the past season coaching Buffalo's special teams and held the same title for three other teams: Carolina (2022-23), Chicago (2018-21) and Cleveland (2011-17).

It's the first hiring for Hafley, the former Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator who the Dolphins formally introduced on Thursday along with Sullivan.

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Yesterday at 6:24 PM CST

FILE - Assistant General Manager Kyle Smith speaks during an Atlanta Falcons training camp, Saturday, July 26, 2025, in Flowery Branch. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart,File)

Former NFL player Kevin Johnson killed at homeless encampment, medical examiner says

The Associated Press 2 minute read Updated: Yesterday at 12:47 PM CST

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Former Philadelphia Eagles defensive lineman Kevin Johnson died from “blunt head trauma and stab wounds” at a homeless encampment, according to the medical examiner.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner said Johnson, 55, was pronounced dead Wednesday morning after being found unconscious. His death was ruled a homicide and is being investigated.

A fourth-round draft pick by New England in 1993, Johnson spent time with the Patriots, Minnesota and Oakland before landing with the Eagles. He had 43 tackles, including seven sacks, and returned a fumble for a touchdown in two years with Philadelphia. He played 15 games for the Raiders in 1997.

Johnson later played in the Arena Football League for Orlando and Los Angeles. The L.A. native played collegiately at Texas Southern.

After applying the pressure all season, Broncos defense now producing turnovers in playoffs

Pat Graham, The Associated Press 4 minute read Preview

After applying the pressure all season, Broncos defense now producing turnovers in playoffs

Pat Graham, The Associated Press 4 minute read Yesterday at 5:01 AM CST

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — Finally, all that pressure paid off for pass rusher Nik Bonitto and the Denver defense. Finally, the Broncos produced what's been missing much of the season — takeaways.

It's been a long time coming for a defense that's been one of the best in the NFL. The Broncos forced five turnovers last weekend against the Buffalo Bills, four from Josh Allen, who hadn't coughed up the ball in his previous six playoff games.

They may be under pressure to turn in a similar sort of turnover-fest against Drake Maye and the New England Patriots in the AFC championship game Sunday. That way, they can take the pressure off backup Jarrett Stidham, who's taking over at QB with Bo Nix out with a broken ankle.

The Broncos led the league with 68 sacks but had only 14 takeaways.

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Yesterday at 5:01 AM CST

January 24, 2026

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