National Football League

[Alpe d'Huez]

¡Si! ¡Cowboys es bueno! Great at beating weak teams at home. They host the Lions this Saturday. Both teams really need to win, let's see how Dallas does there.

If anyone wants to make their own playoff predictions, ESPN's playoff machine helps. Link here.

I still get Baltimore and SF as #1 seeds. The only scenario I can see where this doesn't happen is if SF loses to the Rams in the last game of the season, at home, which is possible but unlikely. If that happens and the Lions win out, they have the #1 seed. But they have to beat Dallas, then Minnesota. Philly needs both SF and Det to lose a game to get HFA. In the AFC, if Miami beats Baltimore and Buffalo, they get the #1 seed. KC seems destined to have the #3 seed, unless they somehow lose to the Bengals and the Chargers. In which case if the Broncos or Raiders win out, they win the division and KC misses the playoffs entirely! This unlikely possibility is interesting because the Bengals are fighting hard to make the playoffs and must win both their remaining games. Also, the Chargers will have absolutely nothing to lose, and that last game of the season, at home against KC, is essentially their Super Bowl. Still, I don't see it happening and I have KC winning both games.

Speaking of Minnesota, they may be starting Jaren Hall this Sunday. He had a good college career and looked to have some pro potential. So-so in pre-season, decent in one start (before getting concussed). But sort of like Aiden O'Connell in Vegas, until you play him, you won't know if he's your future. Otherwise it's back to Dobbs, or spin the wheel with Mullens.

 

[movingtarget]

¡Si! ¡Cowboys es bueno! Great at beating weak teams at home. They host the Lions this Saturday. Both teams really need to win, let's see how Dallas does there.

If anyone wants to make their own playoff predictions, ESPN's playoff machine helps. Link here.

I still get Baltimore and SF as #1 seeds. The only scenario I can see where this doesn't happen is if SF loses to the Rams in the last game of the season, at home, which is possible but unlikely. If that happens and the Lions win out, they have the #1 seed. But they have to beat Dallas, then Minnesota. Philly needs both SF and Det to lose a game to get HFA. In the AFC, if Miami beats Baltimore and Buffalo, they get the #1 seed. KC seems destined to have the #3 seed, unless they somehow lose to the Bengals and the Chargers. In which case if the Broncos or Raiders win out, they win the division and KC misses the playoffs entirely! This unlikely possibility is interesting because the Bengals are fighting hard to make the playoffs and must win both their remaining games. Also, the Chargers will have absolutely nothing to lose, and that last game of the season, at home against KC, is essentially their Super Bowl. Still, I don't see it happening and I have KC winning both games.

Speaking of Minnesota, they may be starting Jaren Hall this Sunday. He had a good college career and looked to have some pro potential. So-so in pre-season, decent in one start (before getting concussed). But sort of like Aiden O'Connell in Vegas, until you play him, you won't know if he's your future. Otherwise it's back to Dobbs, or spin the wheel with Mullens.

Some 49ers fans are nervous about the Rams game. They should have beat the Ravens but somehow got well beaten by the Cowboys ! They can possibly lose and still make the playoffs but they are only one win ahead of a bunch of teams. First game this season the 49ers only beat them by one score and for most of the game the Rams were ahead. Two seasons ago the 49ers had to beat the Rams in the final game to make the playoffs which they did in a classic game that went to extra time after being 0-17 down. With McVay 1-10 at the moment against Shanahan, with their offense clicking and getting some injured players back, I think it will be a dogfight between two coaches and teams that know each other well. Many of their games are close even with the win record so one sided. I think the Rams are the team that teams like the Cowboys, Eagles and 49ers want to avoid in the playoffs. Detroit against the Rams could be a wild game. I wouldn't write off the Buccs either against the Cowboys at the moment and Seattle would like another crack against the Cowboys I'm sure.

 

[Nomad]

Russell Wilson expecting to be cut by Broncos: Sources

Following back-to-back losses, Denver (7-8) has just a 1.8 percent chance to make the playoffs.

www.google.com

Somewhat of a surprise since the Broncos have a chance of a winning season - the first since 2016. A clear sign that the Broncos are parting ways with Wilson? I don't think Stidham is the future, nor would I think they would want to start over with a rookie QB if they're looking at the draft - so this is a puzzling move.

 

[SHAD0W93]

Three big games for Lions, Bills, Chiefs, and Dolphins this week.

Lions can show they’re one of the top teams and need to be taken seriously and increase their chance of the one seed while having the tiebreaker over Cowboys to potentially get the 2. Cowboys are reeling off two hard AFCE loses and Lions can wear them down as well.

Bills absolutely need to make up for their earlier loss to the Pats and continue to win out in order to make the playoffs. They’d be massively helped out with Dolphins losing in order to set up a big game in Miami for the division. Only hope I have in this situation is that Miami would be home instead of having to go to Buffalo. Either way barring a meltdown they’re reaching the playoffs when in the middle of the season they were written off.

Chiefs look set to still win the division and be the third seed but have to be careful to not pull a 2002 Patriots. While a long shot, if they continue to falter and lose to the Bengals while Broncos and/or Raiders win that’s setting up another big week 18 game. The Chiefs have to be happy they don't have another loss (thanks Dolphins ) and the Broncos and Raiders don’t have another win to make everything more stressful. Like Alpe said, Bengals are scrappy and could absolutely win. Chiefs need their defense to stay at this level and Mahomes and Kelce to get their crap together, otherwise they’re not winning. If Chiefs do lose this week, I think it’s extremely likely they implode and drop the game to Chargers as well.

This is it for the Dolphins. Destiny in their hands at Baltimore against a really great team. Ravens can absolutely beat up the Dolphins offense with how hands on and aggressive they are but Dolphins have the knowledge they’re in the playoffs. I’m hoping for a win but think it’s going to come down for their game against the Bills and 2 seed is up for grabs.

 

[movingtarget]

Three big games for Lions, Bills, Chiefs, and Dolphins this week.

Lions can show they’re one of the top teams and need to be taken seriously and increase their chance of the one seed while having the tiebreaker over Cowboys to potentially get the 2. Cowboys are reeling off two hard AFCE loses and Lions can wear them down as well.

Bills absolutely need to make up for their earlier loss to the Pats and continue to win out in order to make the playoffs. They’d be massively helped out with Dolphins losing in order to set up a big game in Miami for the division. Only hope I have in this situation is that Miami would be home instead of having to go to Buffalo. Either way barring a meltdown they’re reaching the playoffs when in the middle of the season they were written off.

Chiefs look set to still win the division and be the third seed but have to be careful to not pull a 2002 Patriots. While a long shot, if they continue to falter and lose to the Bengals while Broncos and/or Raiders win that’s setting up another big week 18 game. The Chiefs have to be happy they don't have another loss (thanks Dolphins ) and the Broncos and Raiders don’t have another win to make everything more stressful. Like Alpe said, Bengals are scrappy and could absolutely win. Chiefs need their defense to stay at this level and Mahomes and Kelce to get their crap together, otherwise they’re not winning. If Chiefs do lose this week, I think it’s extremely likely they implode and drop the game to Chargers as well.

This is it for the Dolphins. Destiny in their hands at Baltimore against a really great team. Ravens can absolutely beat up the Dolphins offense with how hands on and aggressive they are but Dolphins have the knowledge they’re in the playoffs. I’m hoping for a win but think it’s going to come down for their game against the Bills and 2 seed is up for grabs.

Dolphins were helped by the Cowboys constant failures in the red zone not to mention the constant stupid penalties. But it seems to be who the Cowboys are at the moment, and the Miami run game wore them down anyway..After seeing what the Ravens dished up against the 49ers, I think Miami should continue to keep the run game going, that's where the 49ers were seeing some daylight while the Ravens were dominant in the middle of the field with the short pass game. With the right match ups they could catch out the Ravens going downfield as well with some luck. Ravens secondary and LBs were impressive last week. As the 49ers found out, losing the turnover battle against the Ravens makes it much tougher.

I can't see any scenario that has the Chiefs winning the SB this season, they haven't looked good and the Raiders result wasn't a total surprise. But the playoffs always have surprises and it's knockout football at that stage.

At the moment I see the Ravens and Miami as the best chances in the AFC with the Browns seemingly capable of beating anyone on their day while the NFC is starting to become muddier. 49ers running into injury concerns at the wrong time, Cowboys and Eagles looking off and that certainly brings teams like Detroit and the Rams into it.

 

[Alpe d'Huez]

Agree with what everyone said. While it may seem unfathomable that the Chiefs could blow the division, win or lose against Cincinnati, it's quite possible they could lose to the Chargers. That is not a gimme win either way, even though it seems like it on paper. The Chargers will put everything they have left into knocking off the defending champions.

KC has other problems though. I think Kelce is nearing the end of the line, either that or he's more injured than letting on and plans to heal in the off season. But they are paying Mahomes so much they can't afford the receiving talent he wants. They lost Brown on the OL last year and that has shown, and they are likely to lose Chris Jones their best DT this off season.

This is indeed a very telling weekend for both Detroit, and Miami, who I agree needs to run the ball. And that's something that bit SF. If Miami can do that, then their explosive passing game can keep up with Baltimore. A lot of if's, but at times Miami has looked very good.

After the big loss to Baltimore earlier this year I was thinking 2024 might be the year the Lions actually could seriously contend for the Super Bowl. But they too have a real chance here to show they can beat a good team on the road, and it gives them a shot at the first round bye.

Somewhat of a surprise since the Broncos have a chance of a winning season - the first since 2016. A clear sign that the Broncos are parting ways with Wilson? I don't think Stidham is the future, nor would I think they would want to start over with a rookie QB if they're looking at the draft - so this is a puzzling move.

He's done. Denver is going to eat the money to jettison him. Unreal. I thought for sure money wise ownership would force Payton and Wilson to go through another season, but after last week's disaster, he's finished. I'm also 99% sure this is all Sean Payton's decision. He likely made phone calls to Greg Penner and George Paton, and put his foot down. Russ is likely to never again play a down in a Denver uniform, they will cut him soon after the season, unless some financial reason makes them decide to wait until after June 1st. Both are nightmare financial scenarios for the Broncos. But make no mistake, he's done.

I don't know what Denver is going to do either in 2024. I agree Stidham likely sees his place as a good back-up QB. If not, he would have stayed on the Raiders for about the same money he is getting in Denver, or in NE before that, when both teams were going through changes. But you never know. If Denver doesn't reach for a rookie QB, and/or if Stiddy and Payton get along, it's possible Denver is looking at him as a "bridge" QB next year when they will have no money at all in free agency, and possibly see if a rookie QB they like falls to him in the early rounds. Then rebuild/heal in 2024, and see if they can start going in a positive direction. That's about all I can guess. But I am 100% certain Wilson is finished as a Bronco.

It would not surprise me if next year Russ ends up playing for the Giants, maybe the Jets if Rodgers is done. It's been an open secret for many years Ciara wants to live in and be near New York. Now Russ has piles of cash, and can go to the Giants for the $4-5m he's maybe worth, and fade away as a backup over a couple years and then retire. Then, in 2028 or so BET network can do a semi-fictionalized dramatic movie about Russ and Ciara's love.

 

[movingtarget]

Agree with what everyone said. While it may seem unfathomable that the Chiefs could blow the division, win or lose against Cincinnati, it's quite possible they could lose to the Chargers. That is not a gimme win either way, even though it seems like it on paper. The Chargers will put everything they have left into knocking off the defending champions.

KC has other problems though. I think Kelce is nearing the end of the line, either that or he's more injured than letting on and plans to heal in the off season. But they are paying Mahomes so much they can't afford the receiving talent he wants. They lost Brown on the OL last year and that has shown, and they are likely to lose Chris Jones their best DT this off season.

This is indeed a very telling weekend for both Detroit, and Miami, who I agree needs to run the ball. And that's something that bit SF. If Miami can do that, then their explosive passing game can keep up with Baltimore. A lot of if's, but at times Miami has looked very good.

After the big loss to Baltimore earlier this year I was thinking 2024 might be the year the Lions actually could seriously contend for the Super Bowl. But they too have a real chance here to show they can beat a good team on the road, and it gives them a shot at the first round bye.


He's done. Denver is going to eat the money to jettison him. Unreal. I thought for sure money wise ownership would force Payton and Wilson to go through another season, but after last week's disaster, he's finished. I'm also 99% sure this is all Sean Payton's decision. He likely made phone calls to Greg Penner and George Paton, and put his foot down. Russ is likely to never again play a down in a Denver uniform, they will cut him soon after the season, unless some financial reason makes them decide to wait until after June 1st. Both are nightmare financial scenarios for the Broncos. But make no mistake, he's done.

I don't know what Denver is going to do either in 2024. I agree Stidham likely sees his place as a good back-up QB. If not, he would have stayed on the Raiders for about the same money he is getting in Denver, or in NE before that, when both teams were going through changes. But you never know. If Denver doesn't reach for a rookie QB, and/or if Stiddy and Payton get along, it's possible Denver is looking at him as a "bridge" QB next year when they will have no money at all in free agency, and possibly see if a rookie QB they like falls to him in the early rounds. Then rebuild/heal in 2024, and see if they can start going in a positive direction. That's about all I can guess. But I am 100% certain Wilson is finished as a Bronco.

It would not surprise me if next year Russ ends up playing for the Giants, maybe the Jets if Rodgers is done. It's been an open secret for many years Ciara wants to live in and be near New York. Now Russ has piles of cash, and can go to the Giants for the $4-5m he's maybe worth, and fade away as a backup over a couple years and then retire. Then, in 2028 or so BET network can do a semi-fictionalized dramatic movie about Russ and Ciara's love.

What other options for Denver at QB ? Jimmy G if he's released ? Try and get Lock back ? Do they make an aggressive move in the draft to move up and get a quality rookie and you never know how that will turn out re Wilson, Jones etc........... or they run with Stidham ? They took a big swing with Wilson and that wasn't the answer to their inability to find a franchise QB either.

I'm sure the Giants will be looking for options to Jones. Hopefully his contract is a flexible one and he also misses a lot of games. The 40 million could have been better spent.

 

[SHAD0W93]

Chiefs are lucky in that their defense has been playing extremely elite and keeping them in these games. Mahomes and Kelce can also have a huge game to enable them to win. Their issue would be having that happen four times while overcoming the drops, penalties, and inconsistency. If they had another receiver I’d say they could do it but looks like they’ll go the 2019 Patriot route. For next seasons Chiefs are also in trouble because a majority of their defensive talent’s contract ends and they can’t extend everyone unless people take pay cuts/discounts.

Some of theorized a Wilson and Jones trade but that seems bad for both teams.

Dolphins were helped by the Cowboys constant failures in the red zone not to mention the constant stupid penalties. But it seems to be who the Cowboys are at the moment, and the Miami run game wore them down anyway..After seeing what the Ravens dished up against the 49ers, I think Miami should continue to keep the run game going, that's where the 49ers were seeing some daylight while the Ravens were dominant in the middle of the field with the short pass game. With the right match ups they could catch out the Ravens going downfield as well with some luck. Ravens secondary and LBs were impressive last week. As the 49ers found out, losing the turnover battle against the Ravens makes it much tougher.

Cowboys are also lucky Hill didn’t locate the ball in time, Dolphins playing with all their oline starters being injured, and that Mostert and Waddle got injured during the game. Which their turnover on downs drive the play Waddle got injured it had looked like he was the first read and had a route to the end zone. But one team overcame their issues and the other made their own and didn’t overcome their injuries. The issue for the Dolphins against the Ravens is Ravens will throw off their timing routes and eat up their injured oline. The run game will have to be producing in order to open the passing back up.

 

[Nomad]

He's done. Denver is going to eat the money to jettison him. Unreal. I thought for sure money wise ownership would force Payton and Wilson to go through another season, but after last week's disaster, he's finished. I'm also 99% sure this is all Sean Payton's decision. He likely made phone calls to Greg Penner and George Paton, and put his foot down. Russ is likely to never again play a down in a Denver uniform, they will cut him soon after the season, unless some financial reason makes them decide to wait until after June 1st. Both are nightmare financial scenarios for the Broncos. But make no mistake, he's done.

I don't know what Denver is going to do either in 2024. I agree Stidham likely sees his place as a good back-up QB. If not, he would have stayed on the Raiders for about the same money he is getting in Denver, or in NE before that, when both teams were going through changes. But you never know. If Denver doesn't reach for a rookie QB, and/or if Stiddy and Payton get along, it's possible Denver is looking at him as a "bridge" QB next year when they will have no money at all in free agency, and possibly see if a rookie QB they like falls to him in the early rounds. Then rebuild/heal in 2024, and see if they can start going in a positive direction. That's about all I can guess. But I am 100% certain Wilson is finished as a Bronco.

It would not surprise me if next year Russ ends up playing for the Giants, maybe the Jets if Rodgers is done. It's been an open secret for many years Ciara wants to live in and be near New York. Now Russ has piles of cash, and can go to the Giants for the $4-5m he's maybe worth, and fade away as a backup over a couple years and then retire. Then, in 2028 or so BET network can do a semi-fictionalized dramatic movie about Russ and Ciara's love.

Good point on Stidham - I always thought if he had potential the Raiders would have kept him.

If you're 100% confident that the Broncos are going to jettison Wilson, then this will go down as one of the biggest blunders in NFL history, IMO. Lol. Unreal - last year the organization gave Wilson a 5 yr contract extension at 245 mil with 125 mil fully guaranteed! Plus the two 1st rd picks that were given up to acquire him!

My head is spinning on this one. Why not give it one more year with Wilson. Beef up the O-line, give him some better weapons at WR & TE. Start McLaughlin at RB, etc.

I think Payton has lost his mind!

Incredible Contract Detail Highlights How Much Broncos Will Owe Russell Wilson If He’s Released

If Denver releases the quarterback, there’s a real argument that they will have given him one of the worst contracts in NFL history.

www.si.com

 

[movingtarget]

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSCjxodlIjg&t=5s

 

[Alpe d'Huez]

I think Louis Riddick is completely spot on there.

I don't know it's Sean Payton losing his mind, I think there's more going on than we realize, and has been for a while, probably soon after Sean was hired. Even if we go back to that yelling episode after Russ threw a pick where some lip reader stated Sean yelled something like, "how many times I do I have to tell you..?", then just the other day that clip Fox Sports (and others) showed of Russ taking a sack, and his OL not helping him up or anything, but all turning their backs on him and walking away while he got up off the grass, was very telling. So it can't just be 4 games of sub average numbers by Russ. Something has been going on for a while, and Sean very likely sees no possible way to fix it. He went to Paton and Penner and told them what he was doing. I can't see them instantly agreeing, not with that kind of money at stake, but he either convinced them, or forced their hand.

Yes, it's a disaster, and it makes Sean look bad for not making it work, especially after he blamed it all on Hackett. And it is partly Sean's fault. But Sean can always say he wasn't the one who traded for him or signed him to that ridiculous contract. Plus he has always been the kind of guy to rip the bandaid off and move forward. He even said so during that stint he was on TV as an analyst, that bad teams double and triple down on mistakes instead of moving on.

I posted the numbers last week, and why I think he's cut on June 2nd.

On March 21 of next year his entire $37m 2024 salary is fully guaranteed. Circle that date.

Don't want to pay him that? Well, the dead-money hit the Broncos cap would have to absorb if they cut Wilson that early is staggering. The 2024 dead-cap hit alone is $85m. That's nearly 1/3rd their ENTIRE cap!!! Imagine fielding a team with 2/3rds what other teams have...

Cutting him after June 1st isn't much better. Not only would he get the $37m check, it would carry a $35.4m dead-cap hit in 2024, followed by $18.4m in 2025 and 2026, and $8.4, in 2027. Russ is signed through 2028, if you can believe that.

He won't play for Denver again unless there is some sort of spectacular change. Stidham will play all of both remaining games, and if he gets hurt, Ben DeNucci (who played quite well for the Sea Dragons in the XFL) will fill in.

Denver will absorb the dead money over the next few years, lick their wounds. Sean will likely try to make either Stidham (unlikely), a rookie QB next year, or an outcast for the vet minimum, work until they can find their QB for the future in the next few years, if he lasts that long. Let's not forget the Saints get Denver's 2nd round pick in the upcoming draft.

 

[Unchained]

Agree with what everyone said. While it may seem unfathomable that the Chiefs could blow the division, win or lose against Cincinnati, it's quite possible they could lose to the Chargers. That is not a gimme win either way, even though it seems like it on paper. The Chargers will put everything they have left into knocking off the defending champions.

KC has other problems though. I think Kelce is nearing the end of the line, either that or he's more injured than letting on and plans to heal in the off season. But they are paying Mahomes so much they can't afford the receiving talent he wants. They lost Brown on the OL last year and that has shown, and they are likely to lose Chris Jones their best DT this off season.

This is indeed a very telling weekend for both Detroit, and Miami, who I agree needs to run the ball. And that's something that bit SF. If Miami can do that, then their explosive passing game can keep up with Baltimore. A lot of if's, but at times Miami has looked very good.

After the big loss to Baltimore earlier this year I was thinking 2024 might be the year the Lions actually could seriously contend for the Super Bowl. But they too have a real chance here to show they can beat a good team on the road, and it gives them a shot at the first round bye.


He's done. Denver is going to eat the money to jettison him. Unreal. I thought for sure money wise ownership would force Payton and Wilson to go through another season, but after last week's disaster, he's finished. I'm also 99% sure this is all Sean Payton's decision. He likely made phone calls to Greg Penner and George Paton, and put his foot down. Russ is likely to never again play a down in a Denver uniform, they will cut him soon after the season, unless some financial reason makes them decide to wait until after June 1st. Both are nightmare financial scenarios for the Broncos. But make no mistake, he's done.

I don't know what Denver is going to do either in 2024. I agree Stidham likely sees his place as a good back-up QB. If not, he would have stayed on the Raiders for about the same money he is getting in Denver, or in NE before that, when both teams were going through changes. But you never know. If Denver doesn't reach for a rookie QB, and/or if Stiddy and Payton get along, it's possible Denver is looking at him as a "bridge" QB next year when they will have no money at all in free agency, and possibly see if a rookie QB they like falls to him in the early rounds. Then rebuild/heal in 2024, and see if they can start going in a positive direction. That's about all I can guess. But I am 100% certain Wilson is finished as a Bronco.

It would not surprise me if next year Russ ends up playing for the Giants, maybe the Jets if Rodgers is done. It's been an open secret for many years Ciara wants to live in and be near New York. Now Russ has piles of cash, and can go to the Giants for the $4-5m he's maybe worth, and fade away as a backup over a couple years and then retire. Then, in 2028 or so BET network can do a semi-fictionalized dramatic movie about Russ and Ciara's love.

I think CN should verify that you are not a Spanos family member, with your zany Chargers conclusions!!!
And because I don't know, and trust football professionals, I hope putting Russell Wilson on the bench is strictly functional and not something punitive because his binary season, completely on or completely off would look if the cycle continues, he is due for some good games. If you look at a Rui Costa, a Joe Flaco ..it's all about being in the right place at the right time, with lots and lots of skill, history and experience in the bank when opportunity knocks..my opinion is if Denver wants anything salvaged for the season, Wilson is on the field

 

[Alpe d'Huez]

Good catch, it's me, the ghost of Alex Spanos. Closet cycling fan too.

Russell ain't ever playing for Denver again. If he gets hurt, they have to pay him ALL of his guaranteed money into next season. Not happening. He might as well pull a Mariota and not even suit up, or show up to games.

Mike Florio brings up a point. If Russ signs with another team for the veteran minimum of $1.21m next year, the Broncos are on the hook for some $36m next season. So Russ could really stick it to them. That's how his contract is written. The genius of George Paton. Florio sees him going to the Raiders for that reason. I'm not so sure because there are enough teams that would sign him as their starter from week 1, which is what I'm sure Russ will want. That's not likely to happen with the Raiders, though he could very much compete for a starting job on many teams, I don't see Russ ego accepting that.

Russ has a lot of fans online that will push for him. Many are as irrational as Derek Carr fans. But they will be there for him.

I'm starting to think this is a scenario that happened many times over the last 2 seasons. It's late in a tough game. Denver gets downfield, Russ has some good throws, then he throws a bad interception in the red zone (fails to convert on a 4th and 1, or takes a sack making them out of FG range, etc.) He hops up, runs off the field clapping his hands, gets to the sidelines where the rest of the entire roster is just crushed, and he happily yelps, "Bronco's country! Let's ride!" to keep them thinking positive thoughts. After all, it wasn't all his fault, he's a good person, and being positive matters more than anything.

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8DVe5hNpBE

 

[Nomad]

I don't know it's Sean Payton losing his mind, I think there's more going on than we realize, and has been for a while, probably soon after Sean was hired. Even if we go back to that yelling episode after Russ threw a pick where some lip reader stated Sean yelled something like, "how many times I do I have to tell you..?", then just the other day that clip Fox Sports (and others) showed of Russ taking a sack, and his OL not helping him up or anything, but all turning their backs on him and walking away while he got up off the grass, was very telling. So it can't just be 4 games of sub average numbers by Russ. Something has been going on for a while, and Sean very likely sees no possible way to fix it. He went to Paton and Penner and told them what he was doing. I can't see them instantly agreeing, not with that kind of money at stake, but he either convinced them, or forced their hand.

Saying he lost his mind was a figure of speech. Truth be told he's an egomaniac, IMO. He's all ticked off because the Broncos aren't making the playoffs - and his ego can't handle it (remember back in pre-season, he said to the media he'd be "pissed" if the Broncos didn't make the playoffs).

This isn't about Russ Wilson's performance. This is about Payton using Wilson as an escape goat because of Payton's failure. He took the job thinking he's God's gift of coaching, publicly criticized & insulted Hackett (very unprofessional for a man of his supposed status), wears a "S" on his chest thinking he's going waltz right in here out of retirement & lead the Broncos to the promised land his first year back in coaching. Lol.

The team is much improved over last year - that's a fact. Wilson isn't playing that bad. He's 18th currently on the QB rankings throwing for over 3000 yds & 26 TDs - same number of TD passes as Tua & Mahomes! All this basically with very little weapons, especially at TE & RB, and a piss-poor offense line. For example, look at the weapons & OL that Purday has: All-World Christian Mac who has almost 2000 yds in total O & 21 TDs! Samuel & Aiyuk at the wideouts (Aiyuk has over 1000 yds & averaging 18 yds a grab!). A top three TE in All-World George Kittle & thee best tackle in the business - LT Trent Lawrence!

Imagine if Wilson had this kind of talent at his fingertips. Barring injury to Wilson, I think the Bronco faithful could book their flights to Vegas for SB LVIII.

This is absolutely egregious if Wilson's playing days are done here after getting that kind of dough on that 5 yr contract extension! I've never seen anything like this before - perhaps ownership has lost their mind. Lol Payton & his ego is the one that should be jettisoned out here!

Weiterleitungshinweis

www.google.com

 

[Nomad]

Hilarious!

View: https://youtube.com/shorts/WjW-ju-cELY?si=nbyenP_jpF-3bL8m

 

[Oldermanish]

Some 49ers fans are nervous about the Rams game. They should have beat the Ravens but somehow got well beaten by the Cowboys ! They can possibly lose and still make the playoffs but they are only one win ahead of a bunch of teams. First game this season the 49ers only beat them by one score and for most of the game the Rams were ahead. Two seasons ago the 49ers had to beat the Rams in the final game to make the playoffs which they did in a classic game that went to extra time after being 0-17 down. With McVay 1-10 at the moment against Shanahan, with their offense clicking and getting some injured players back, I think it will be a dogfight between two coaches and teams that know each other well. Many of their games are close even with the win record so one sided. I think the Rams are the team that teams like the Cowboys, Eagles and 49ers want to avoid in the playoffs. Detroit against the Rams could be a wild game. I wouldn't write off the Buccs either against the Cowboys at the moment and Seattle would like another crack against the Cowboys I'm sure.

I'm hoping for Jerry's Kids playing Seattle again.

 

[movingtarget]

If anything it's doubtful you will ever see two contracts like the Wilson and Watson contracts ever again in the NFL and this season has showed more than ever that having a good back up matters. Even QB drafting will be looked at differently after the Purdy pick and the constant fails of quite a few first round picks. Teams might start looking more at scheme fits, budget picks and QBs that won't need much development. The days of project picks like Lance with minimal college experience but with good athletic ability might also be over. Although many argued that Jones was the most NFL ready QB in his draft and he regressed quickly after a decent half season at the Patriots, Fields strength is still his athletic ability while Wilson hasn't showed enough of anything consistently and could end up like Lance, forgotten and not playing but still getting signed as a third option. Lawrence won't be confused with an elite QB based on this season.

Still big QB question marks for the Giants, Denver, Titans, Steelers still playing musical chairs at QB, Jets is all about Rodgers future, same with Cousins at the Vikings, Buccs will probably pay Baker, Cards will ride out Murray's contract while maybe looking at alternatives depending on his performance and whether they believe in him enough to offer him an extension, Fields future looks doubtful at the Bears, Raiders will probably release Jimmy G when the finances take the smallest hit. At the moment it looks like the 49ers see Purdy as their long term future at QB, Rams will be looking for a successor to Stafford pretty soon, same with Vikings re Cousins, Washington are looking at a rebuild including the QB position.

 

[movingtarget]

Browns do it again. Huge game by the RB Ford and Flacco's good form continues. Nasty concussion for Moore when his head speared into ground. Looked like his neck got compressed. Jets couldn't get out of their own way. Browns fans going off as they should !

 

[BullsFan22]

Not sure what the Broncos were thinking giving Russ such a huge contract. He was a few months shy of 34 and had come off an injury plagued season. He’s played better than last year, but it seems like Payton is done with him.

 

[Alpe d'Huez]

Great win for the Browns to make the playoffs. Impressed again by Flacco! He looked very sharp against a stiff defense! Still hoping for a Lions-Browns Super Bowl!

Saying he lost his mind was a figure of speech. Truth be told he's an egomaniac, IMO.

All true. Huge ego. But Russ in no way has earned that huge contract he got. He was given a "contend for the Super Bowl" amount of money, and hasn't come close to delivering, and numbers or no numbers, that last loss against a completely depleted Patriots team was a disaster with much of it falling on Wilson's inability to deliver when it mattered. Same with Payton of course. And that's very likely to manifest itself in the years to come. Once Russ is gone they have few draft options, no cap room, and no QB. So Payton's going to have to really earn his money and prove how much of a super genius he is in the next couple years.

Like it or not, Russ is 99% gone. But for me the bottom line was the first thing I wrote in an earlier post. I find it unreal that management there couldn't compel Payton and Wilson to work through this, and one more season. Doing so would have benefited the Broncos in every way imaginable. Wilson, even if average, is still very likely their best option at QB through next season, and if not, cutting him after 2024 would be far less costly. The timing of this is a nightmare. A financial debacle that will go down in sports history.

If anything it's doubtful you will ever see two contracts like the Wilson and Watson contracts ever again in the NFL and this season has showed more than ever that having a good back up matters. Even QB drafting will be looked at differently after the Purdy pick and the constant fails of quite a few first round picks. Teams might start looking more at scheme fits, budget picks and QBs that won't need much development. The days of project picks like Lance with minimal college experience but with good athletic ability might also be over.

Maybe. What you say makes a lot of sense. I wrote about similar before. I mean Cleveland is the perfect example. Deshaun Watson's absurd contract was like Wilson. Not just big money, but "get us to the Super Bowl" level of money. And who is the best QB the Browns have had the last two years? 38 year old Joe Flacco, making $2.5m.

Or as Nomad said, Trevor Lawerence was hyped all sorts of ways. The next Peyton Manning is one. And by all counts they really should be contending for the AFC championship if not this season, next. As they have a good young defense as well. But he's played average, with above average spurts. Nowhere near the #1 overall pick, best QB of the decade out of college, level of hype. So even he hasn't panned out to what was expected. Being better than Kyler Murray, Baker Mayfield (and Bryce Young so far) isn't saying much, is it?

But I still think teams will still overreach for a QB in the draft. It happened just this last season where genius David Tepper gave up his best players, and his draft future, to get Bryce Young, who has shown very little through this season. Granted, their entire team isn't very good. But this won't stop some teams, scouts, GMs, and especially owners, from seeing an NCAA quarterback shred weak college defenses and assume that QB will do the same in the NFL with a little coaching magic. Even if we look at this coming draft, the hype is off the charts. This is touted to be the best QB draft class in years. Williams, Maye, Penix, McCarthey, Nix, etc. all possible to go in the first round, maybe more QBs. We'll find out I guess.

As to giant contracts, I think it's not just Watson and Wilson. Are Herbert and Burrow worth the money they have been paid? No one can say Derek Carr, Daniel Jones, Kyler Murray, Jimmy Garappolo, Ryan Tannehill are earning their millions. Sure, Joe Burrow looks great...when healthy. But even look at Mahomes. If any QB "deserves" $40m a year, it's him. Even with their struggles he's still the best player in the NFL (imo, and I'm a Raiders fan), but they are paying him so much they lost Tyreek, they lost their best OT in Orlando Brown, they haven't been able to pay for top receivers and are relying on retreads and cheap guys off FA. Brett Veach and Andy Reid have actually done a remarkable job with their roster, made the most of their defense (some of whom they will likely lose in the off-season) and stayed competitive. But when one sixth your salary cap goes to one guy... I don't know how open the window actually is now for the Bengals, Chargers, Eagles after paying their QB so much. Maybe next year, maybe in 2025, we'll see similar issues with Baltimore as well because of Lamar's gigantic contract.

Remember when Tom Brady would frequently restructure his contract and take less money? He did so under two conditions: They listened to his input on how to structure the offense, and using the money they saved on Tom, Kraft and Belicheck would spend all the way up to the salary cap limit on other players. This seems like a quaint notion now in the NFL, like a time from ancient history with some of these gigantic contracts, but it was only about 5 years ago.

 

[SHAD0W93]

Ja'Marr Chase injury update: Bengals WR returns to practice, takes dig at Chiefs defense ahead of Week 17 game

Chase can put a damper on the Chiefs defense if he plays.

 

[SHAD0W93]

Ja'Marr Chase injury update: Bengals WR returns to practice, takes dig at Chiefs defense ahead of Week 17 game

Chase can put a damper on the Chiefs defense if he plays.

Week 17 Injury Report | Chiefs vs. Bengals

www.chiefs.com

Chiefs are also in trouble if Sneed doesn’t play. I’ve also read on multiple different threads/videos that none of the Chiefs RBs will play.

Chiefs vs. Bengals Week 17 injury report: Ja’Marr Chase back; L’Jarius Sneed still out

www.arrowheadpride.com

 

[Alpe d'Huez]

I don't know if I believe either of those guys "expert" opinion and their confidence in either Cincy or KC. But I do agree it is likely to be a fairly low scoring affair. Perine good to go for KC, but he may be their only true RB. Lots of injured Chiefs beyond RB. Both teams are definitely depleted, but both need to win.

 

[movingtarget]

Great win for the Browns to make the playoffs. Impressed again by Flacco! He looked very sharp against a stiff defense! Still hoping for a Lions-Browns Super Bowl!

All true. Huge ego. But Russ in no way has earned that huge contract he got. He was given a "contend for the Super Bowl" amount of money, and hasn't come close to delivering, and numbers or no numbers, that last loss against a completely depleted Patriots team was a disaster with much of it falling on Wilson's inability to deliver when it mattered. Same with Payton of course. And that's very likely to manifest itself in the years to come. Once Russ is gone they have few draft options, no cap room, and no QB. So Payton's going to have to really earn his money and prove how much of a super genius he is in the next couple years.

Like it or not, Russ is 99% gone. But for me the bottom line was the first thing I wrote in an earlier post. I find it unreal that management there couldn't compel Payton and Wilson to work through this, and one more season. Doing so would have benefited the Broncos in every way imaginable. Wilson, even if average, is still very likely their best option at QB through next season, and if not, cutting him after 2024 would be far less costly. The timing of this is a nightmare. A financial debacle that will go down in sports history.

Maybe. What you say makes a lot of sense. I wrote about similar before. I mean Cleveland is the perfect example. Deshaun Watson's absurd contract was like Wilson. Not just big money, but "get us to the Super Bowl" level of money. And who is the best QB the Browns have had the last two years? 38 year old Joe Flacco, making $2.5m.

Or as Nomad said, Trevor Lawerence was hyped all sorts of ways. The next Peyton Manning is one. And by all counts they really should be contending for the AFC championship if not this season, next. As they have a good young defense as well. But he's played average, with above average spurts. Nowhere near the #1 overall pick, best QB of the decade out of college, level of hype. So even he hasn't panned out to what was expected. Being better than Kyler Murray, Baker Mayfield (and Bryce Young so far) isn't saying much, is it?

But I still think teams will still overreach for a QB in the draft. It happened just this last season where genius David Tepper gave up his best players, and his draft future, to get Bryce Young, who has shown very little through this season. Granted, their entire team isn't very good. But this won't stop some teams, scouts, GMs, and especially owners, from seeing an NCAA quarterback shred weak college defenses and assume that QB will do the same in the NFL with a little coaching magic. Even if we look at this coming draft, the hype is off the charts. This is touted to be the best QB draft class in years. Williams, Maye, Penix, McCarthey, Nix, etc. all possible to go in the first round, maybe more QBs. We'll find out I guess.

As to giant contracts, I think it's not just Watson and Wilson. Are Herbert and Burrow worth the money they have been paid? No one can say Derek Carr, Daniel Jones, Kyler Murray, Jimmy Garappolo, Ryan Tannehill are earning their millions. Sure, Joe Burrow looks great...when healthy. But even look at Mahomes. If any QB "deserves" $40m a year, it's him. Even with their struggles he's still the best player in the NFL (imo, and I'm a Raiders fan), but they are paying him so much they lost Tyreek, they lost their best OT in Orlando Brown, they haven't been able to pay for top receivers and are relying on retreads and cheap guys off FA. Brett Veach and Andy Reid have actually done a remarkable job with their roster, made the most of their defense (some of whom they will likely lose in the off-season) and stayed competitive. But when one sixth your salary cap goes to one guy... I don't know how open the window actually is now for the Bengals, Chargers, Eagles after paying their QB so much. Maybe next year, maybe in 2025, we'll see similar issues with Baltimore as well because of Lamar's gigantic contract.

Remember when Tom Brady would frequently restructure his contract and take less money? He did so under two conditions: They listened to his input on how to structure the offense, and using the money they saved on Tom, Kraft and Belicheck would spend all the way up to the salary cap limit on other players. This seems like a quaint notion now in the NFL, like a time from ancient history with some of these gigantic contracts, but it was only about 5 years ago.

What I meant was monster money for veteran QBs, one more of a veteran than the other. No doubt that QB contracts will continue to balloon for the young talents re Burrow and Henry types but those players are looking at playing for another 10 years if injuries don't stop them. Wilson was already over the hill or at least past his best and Watson hasn't looked the same since he returned, not even close. If the going rate for an elite QB now is 55 mill or more teams will still pay the Mariota's good money as a back up and the Jimmy G's as a non elite starter. Jimmy's 25 is nothing like the 40 Jones is getting or Carr while Mariota can continue getting 10 or 12 per season which in context is very good for someone who rarely sees the field, same with Darnold. Then you you get the Geno's and Bakers who have a resurgence later in their careers and teams are happy to pay them a tidy 30 or 40 mill per season especially if they are the best option available.

What made the Wilson and Watson contracts so absurd was the huge amount of guaranteed money neither of whom has played near their peak for many years. I think Lamar's contract extension was also pretty heavy on guaranteed money as well but the Ravens had little options in that negotiation and he is still in his peak years anyway. No one is talking about his contract at the moment............

 

[Eyeballs Out]

Funny that it looks like Russell Wilson will never play a snap on his massive contract extension. His existing contract would have run to the end of this season. Anyway, the dead money will essentially put the Broncos in rebuilding mode for a couple of seasons although they don't have much draft capital to rebuild with. Possibly they could trade away someone like Courtland Sutton - the question being is it worth paying him significant money while they won't be contenders and by the time they might be contenders he'll be 30 something.

I guess they are all in with Sean Payton for the long term. Easy to forget that it wasn't just Russell Wilson they gave up big draft picks and big money for.