Footballguys #254 - 1/1 - News & Notes From Around The League

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Registrations will close on Saturday January, 6th at 4:30pm ET. Don't wait - [get your team now](=) and end your fantasy football season with a bang! --------------------------------------------------------------- [Footballguys.com]( Volume 19, #254 -- Monday Night, January 1st, 2018 Note: Unsubscribe instructions are at the bottom of this email --------------------------------------------------------------- Hi Folks, Good Tuesday to you. We've got the News and Notes you need so let's get to it. J [] INSIDE THIS ISSUE 1. [ARI - Bruce Arians to retire](#1) 2. [BUF - RB LeSean McCoy won't be 100 percent](#2) 3. [GB - Ted Thompson no longer GM](#3) 4. [IND - QB Andrew Luck will be back next year](#4) 5. [DEN - Vance Joseph will return](#5) 6. [IND - Indy interested in Josh McDaniels](#6) 7. [CHI - John Fox fired](#7) 8. [DET - Jim Caldwell fired](#8) 9. [DAL - Coordinators on hot seat](#9) 10. [CIN - Marvin Lewis wants to come back](#10) 11. [MIA - Miami will retain Adam Gase](#11) 12. [PIT - WR JuJu Smith-Schuster youngest to 1,000 yards](#12) 13. [MIN - TE Kyle Rudolph spotted in walking boot](#13) 14. [CAR - RB Jonathan Stewart expected to 'be fine'](#14) 15. [NYG - G-Men seek two Patriots for interviews](#15) 16. [DET - Matt Patricia to interview with Lions](#16) 17. [LAC - TE Antonio Gates wants to play in 2018](#17) 18. [NFL - Saquon Barkley to enter draft](#18) 19. [BUF - WR Rod Streater signs to futures deal](#19) 20. [DEN - Denver signs four to futures deals](#20) 21. [HOU - Houston signs three to futures deals](#21) 22. [ARI - Arizona looking to talk with Mike Munchak](#22) 23. [OAK - Paul Guenther may be DC candidate](#23) 24. [ARI - Arizona interested in John DeFilippo](#24) 25. [MIN - QB Sam Bradford to practice](#25) 26. [NYJ - QB Josh McCown could return](#26) 27. [IND - Saquon Barkley a target of Colts?](#27) 28. [MIA - Miami signs eight to Reserve/Future contracts](#28) 29. [CHI - Ryan Pace given extension](#29) 30. [BAL - Four Ravens sign Reserve/Future deals](#30) 31. [CLE - Eight Browns sign Reserve/Future deals](#31) 32. [DEN - Eric Studesville let go](#32) 33. [DEN - Three Denver coaches fired](#33) 34. [WAS - Washington retains plethora of players](#34) 35. [IND - Eight players signed by Colts](#35) 36. [CIN - Reserve/Future contracts for Bengals](#36) 37. [DAL - Dallas signs several to Reserve/Future deals](#37) 38. [DET - Detroit makes Reserve/Future deals](#38) 39. [CHI - WR Cameron Meredith hopeful for training camp](#39) 40. [IND - Steve Wilks sought for Indy interview](#40) 41. [DET - Teryl Austin to interview for HC spot](#41) 42. [DET - Pat Shurmur requested for DET interview](#42) 43. [ARI - QB Drew Stanton update](#43) 44. [DET - Steve Wilks sought for Detroit interview](#44) 45. [DET - OLB Mike Vrabel to interview with Lions](#45) 46. [ARI - QB Drew Stanton played with torn ACL](#46) 47. [ARI - WR Larry Fitzgerald caps career year](#47) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 1. [ARI - Bruce Arians to retire](=) Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter Arizona Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians is expected to retire from coaching, according to league sources. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] This has been writing on the wall for quite some time. Arians was dealing with different health issues as head coach and he seemed intent on moving on and parting ways mutually with the team. The Cardinals are in trouble as they may also be without guys like WR Larry Fitzgerald and QB Carson Palmer going forward without Arians. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 2. [BUF - RB LeSean McCoy won't be 100 percent]( Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport Buffalo Bills RB [LeSean McCoy]( (ankle) is unlikely to be 100 percent in next week's Wild Card game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The extra day with the Sunday game helps, but he's still likely to be gimpy. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] McCoy was carted off the field in Week 17, but the X-rays on his ankle came back negative. He'll be limited (or out) of practice for the duration of the week to get him as close to full strength as possible. McCoy is the centerpiece of the team's offense, but with McCoy banged up (and against a tough opponent) it's going to be a challenge for the Bills. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 3. [GB - Ted Thompson no longer GM]( Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport Green Bay Packers general manager Ted Thompson is expected to be receive a new role in the organization and will no longer be the general manager, according to sources. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Thompson has been the GM of the Packers since 2005. He's been with the team almost fully since 1992 (he worked for the Seahawks from 2000-2004). There have been rumblings about Thompson taking a different position with the team for some time. The Packers now begin the search for his replacement. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 4. [IND - QB Andrew Luck will be back next year]() Source: The Indianapolis Star - Zak Keefer Indianapolis Colts QB [Andrew Luck]( (shoulder) will be back 'with a fierce fire in his eyes' in 2018, according to team owner Jim Irsay. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Luck has been in Europe rehabbing his injured shoulder. There were earlier concerns that Luck would need another procedure on the injury, but those have subsided in recent weeks. We like that Irsay is positive but we'd like to see Luck look like his old self before proclaiming any sort of 'fire' when it comes to his game. He hasn't looked like himself when he was healthy as the constant beating he's taken with the Colts has changed his mechanics. We hope Luck can get back to looking like the generational quarterback he was coming out of Stanford. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 5. [DEN - Vance Joseph will return](=) Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter Denver Broncos head coach Vance Joseph will return for the 2018 season, according to a source. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] There were rumblings that the Broncos were ready to move on from Joseph after just one year, but something changed in their outlook. The players lobbied to keep Joseph according to rumblings around the team, and the Broncos may have not been able to get a coach they'd consider an upgrade (Jay Gruden, etc) over Joseph. We'll see if they can fix the offense by finding a quarterback and upgrading the blockers in front of him. That would go a long way to getting the Broncos back in the playoff conversation. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 6. [IND - Indy interested in Josh McDaniels](=) Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels has been requested for an interview by the Indianapolis Colts for their head coaching vacancy, according to a league source. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] McDaniels would bring excitement to a Colts offense that needs it...and a better offensive line...and a better rushing attack...and oh yeah, QB Andrew Luck needs to be healthy. As you can see, one coach is not going to clean up all the problems the Colts have. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 7. [CHI - John Fox fired]( Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport Chicago Bears head coach John Fox was fired Monday, Jan. 1, according to sources. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] No surprise here as this move has been expected for most of the year. Fox has coached the Bears for three seasons and finishes his time as head coach with a 14-34 record. For his career, Fox has a 141-130 record with a .520 win percentage. He's average as a head coach, but the Bears are the first team he's coached (Panthers, Broncos) that has failed to make a deep postseason run. Fox can be pegged by a team in need of a veteran coach. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 8. [DET - Jim Caldwell fired]( Source: ESPN.com - Michael Rothstein The Detroit Lions have fired head coach Jim Caldwell after four seasons, per team sources. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] The move was expected with the Lions out of the playoffs. There is buzz building that the team is looking at Jim Schwartz (Eagles) as their next head coach, but they are going to interview others including but not limited to Matt Patricia (Patriots). In four seasons as the Lions top man, Caldwell has a 36-28 record with two playoff berths. The veteran coach should land another gig quickly, even if that means he has to go back to being an offensive coordinator. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 9. [DAL - Coordinators on hot seat]( Source: NFL.com - Ian Rapoport Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli and offensive coordinator Scott Linehan are on the hot seat and will be thoroughly evaluated, according to team sources. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Things fell apart with the Cowboys this year, on both sides of the ball. The Cowboys will be at home during the postseason and they could clean up the coordinator side to inject some different energy. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 10. [CIN - Marvin Lewis wants to come back](=) Source: NFL.com - Jeremy Bergman Cincinnati Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis told reporters following the Week 17 game against the Baltimore Ravens that he would like to come back as coach in 2018, but nothing has been finalized. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] The Bengals were rumored to be interested in getting Jay Gruden back from Washington. They're likely to finally go in a different direction at the head coaching position, but there has also been rumblings that Lewis could stay in some front office role. Lewis' contract expired following the conclusion of the season, and there had been talk that Lewis might leave the job on his own. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 11. [MIA - Miami will retain Adam Gase]() Source: The Associated Press - Steven Wine Miami Dolphins head coach Adam Gase will be remain with the team in 2018, owner Stephen Ross said Sunday, Dec. 31. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Gase gets another chance to make it work in 2018. He led the team to the playoffs (for the first time in eight years) in 2016, but once QB Ryan Tannehill was lost for the year with a knee injury their 2017 season went off the rails. Tannehill is back next year and they'll make another run in a tough AFC East. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 12. [PIT - WR JuJu Smith-Schuster youngest to 1,000 yards]() Source: Sirius XM NFL Radio - Gil Brandt Pittsburgh Steelers WR [JuJu Smith-Schuster](, who turned 21 in November, is the youngest player in NFL history to record 1,000 all-purpose yards in a season. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] This is the tip of the iceberg with Smith-Schuster. The rookie was fantastic when healthy and should prove to be a fine WR2 for the Steelers opposite superstar Antonio Brown. Now if only Ben Roethlisberger would return for 2018... [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 13. [MIN - TE Kyle Rudolph spotted in walking boot]() Source: St. Paul Pioneer Press - Chris Tomasson Minnesota Vikings TE [Kyle Rudolph]( (ankle) played only 28 snaps in a Week 17 victory over the Chicago Bears and was in a walking boot after the game. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Rudolph's ankle has been bothering him for a few weeks now. The Vikings have a bye so he's got time to get healthier. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 14. [CAR - RB Jonathan Stewart expected to 'be fine']( Source: Panthers.com - Max Henson Carolina Panthers RB [Jonathan Stewart]( (back) sat out Week 17 against the Atlanta Falcons, but head coach Ron Rivera told reporters Stewart is expected to 'be fine' for the team's wild-card weekend matchup against the New Orleans Saints. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] The Panthers have used a RBBC this year with both Stewart and rookie Christian McCaffrey. Stewart averaged a career low 3.4 yards per carry in 2017 (he's been hampered by injuries) but was able to rush for over 100 yards in two games. His last big game was in Week 14 against the Vikings (103 yards and three touchdowns), but that was before this back injury flared up. He'll be ready for the game against the Saints, but we're not expecting much. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 15. [NYG - G-Men seek two Patriots for interviews](=) Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter New England Patriots defensive coordinator Matt Patricia and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels have been sought for permission to interview for the New York Giants' head coaching vacancy. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Matt Patricia has been getting head coaching interviews for some time now. This seems like the year he may finally get that top gig. McDaniels was always thought of as a guy in line to take over for Bill Belichick when he was done with the Patriots. That still might be the case with McDaniels but it won't prevent other teams from pursuing him. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 16. [DET - Matt Patricia to interview with Lions]( Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport New England Patriots defensive coordinator Matt Patricia is expected to interview for the Detroit Lions' head coaching vacancy. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] The Lions are on the hunt for a new head coach with Jim Caldwell getting fired. Patricia has ties to the Lions as their GM Bob Quinn spent some time with Patricia in New England. We've seen Patricia interview for several head coaching jobs and this year it feels like he should get one. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 17. [LAC - TE Antonio Gates wants to play in 2018]( Source: Los Angeles Daily News - Jack Wang Los Angeles Chargers TE [Antonio Gates]( will be a free agent after the season, but he said he still has 'the juice' and would like to play in 2018. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] The future Hall of Fame tight end turns 38 years old next summer, and he'd look awkward playing for another team. Hunter Henry is set to be the lead tight end for the Chargers going forward, but if Gates came back for a good price he could continue to work as a reserve player. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 18. [NFL - Saquon Barkley to enter draft](=) Source: ESPN.com Penn State RB Saquon Barkley announced Sunday, Dec. 31, that he plans to declare for the 2018 NFL Draft. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Barkley is the best running back in the 2018 NFL draft...and this is a great class of RBs entering the league. His game blends size, power, strength and speed on the field as a three-down player. At 5'11" 230 pounds, Barkley reminds some in the scouting community of David Johnson (Cardinals). Barkley is certainly going to be a top-10 pick and is a player fantasy owners will be taking no1 overall in rookie drafts. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 19. [BUF - WR Rod Streater signs to futures deal]( Source: BuffaloBills.com - Chris Brown The Buffalo Bills signed WR [Rod Streater]( to a Reserve/Future deal Monday, Jan. 1. Terms of the contract were not disclosed. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Streater was hurt in the preseason with the Bills and received an injury settlement. He's likely healthy now and going to compete for a roster spot this offseason. Streater's game is all about speed, speed and more speed. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 20. [DEN - Denver signs four to futures deals]() Source: DenverBroncos.com - Aric DiLalla The Denver Broncos signed WR River Cracraft, TE [Brian Parker](, WR Tim Patrick and Jordan Leslie to Reserve/Future contracts Monday, Jan. 1. Terms of the contracts were not disclosed. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Cracraft is a dangerous slot receiver who can get open on underneath routes. Parker is an athletic tight end on a team desperate for help at the position. Patrick is a crazy athlete who reminds some of a young Jordan Taylor. All are only worth monitoring in super deep dynasty leagues. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 21. [HOU - Houston signs three to futures deals](=) Source: Houston Chronicle - Aaron Wilson The Houston Texans signed TE Zach Conque, RB [Troymaine Pope]( and TE Jevoni Robinson to Reserve/Future contracts Monday, Jan. 1. Terms of the contract were not disclosed. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Pope came out of Jacksonville State as a UDFA in 2016 and was picked up by the Seahawks. He's bounced around since then (including two stints with Seattle) and has flashed a bit in the preseason. At 5'9" 207 pounds, Pope is a change-of-pace back with great foot frequency who can contribute as a runner, receiver or return man. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 22. [ARI - Arizona looking to talk with Mike Munchak]( Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport The Arizona Cardinals have requested permission to interview Pittsburgh Steelers offensive line coach Mike Munchak for their head coaching position, according to a source. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Munchak has head coaching experience from his time with the Titans from 2011-2013. He has a 22-26 record as a head coach in the NFL. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 23. [OAK - Paul Guenther may be DC candidate](=) Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter Cincinnati Bengals defensive coordinator Paul Guenther is expected to be a leading candidate for the Oakland Raiders defensive coordinator position if the Raiders hire former NFL head coach Jon Gruden as their next head coach, according to a source. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] The Bengals were crushed by injuries on the defensive side of the ball this year and finished 18th in total defense. The only thing preventing Guenther from going to the Raiders is the fact that he may be in the running for the Bengals head coaching job. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 24. [ARI - Arizona interested in John DeFilippo](=) Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter The Arizona Cardinals have asked permission to interview Philadelphia Eagles quarterbacks coach John DeFilippo for their head coaching position, according to a source. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] DeFilippo has experience as an OC with the Browns back in 2015. He has overseen Carson Wentz for the Eagles and teams are excited about the 39-year old coach as a QB whisperer. The Cardinals don't have a QB of the future, but that could change in the 2018 NFL draft. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 25. [MIN - QB Sam Bradford to practice]( Source: Minneapolis Star Tribune - Ben Goessling Minnesota Vikings QB [Sam Bradford]( (knee) will participate in practice this week, according to head coach Mike Zimmer. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] This was expected as Bradford is getting healthier. The Vikings have three weeks to activate Bradford from the Reserve/Injured list. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 26. [NYJ - QB Josh McCown could return](=) Source: ESPNNewYork.com - Rich Cimini New York Jets impending free-agent QB [Josh McCown]( is a player the Jets would be interested in re-signing this offseason, according to head coach Todd Bowles. McCown still has not decided if he will continue his playing career. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] McCown is no spring chicken and there has been speculation that he's thinking about retirement. If he does want to keep playing football then the Jets make a lot of sense. He could serve as a bridge quarterback for any rookie the Jets select at the position. Bryce Petty and Christian Hackenberg are not the long-term answer, and we expect the Jets to make moves to add a young, potential franchise QB. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 27. [IND - Saquon Barkley a target of Colts?](=) Source: The Indianapolis Star - Zak Keefer Penn State RB Saquon Barkley may be the early target for the Indianapolis Colts with their No. 3 overall draft pick. Owner Jim Irsay hinted that pairing QB [Andrew Luck]( with a solid running back would make Indianapolis a 'special place to be and a special place to play.' [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Barkley has declared for the 2018 NFL draft and he's the best RB in this great class. He's got power, speed and the three-down ability to be a superstar in the NFL. Barkley would be a great boost to the Colts offense, and the team could try to find OL help later in the draft. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 28. [MIA - Miami signs eight to Reserve/Future contracts](=) Source: The Miami Herald - Armando Salguero Miami Dolphins CB Taveze Calhoun, QB Brandon Doughty, OT Sean Hickey, CB Tracy Howard, WR Malcolm Lewis, WR Drew Morgan, RB Brandon Radcliff and DE Jonathan Woodard were signed to Reserve/Future deals Monday, Jan. 1. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] A seventh-round pick (Dolphins) in the 2016 NFL draft out of Western Kentucky, Doughty is a player we've been monitoring in the deepest of deep dynasty leagues. Doughty doesn't have a rocket arm but he throws with great anticipation and has the athleticism to keep plays alive with his feet while keeping his eyes downfield. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 29. [CHI - Ryan Pace given extension](=) Source: Chicago Tribune - Brad Biggs Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Pace signed a two-year contract extension through 2021 Monday, Jan. 1. Financial terms were not disclosed. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Pace and John Fox were in a power struggle with the Bears. Fox lost and Pace won. Now, the Bears GM will begin the search for a new head coach. Pace has done a good job of drafting players for the Bears, but his work in free agency leaves a lot to be desired (Mike Glennon, really?). The Bears need to turn things around in the NFC North or Pace may run out of time to fix things before the team goes in yet another direction. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 30. [BAL - Four Ravens sign Reserve/Future deals]( Source: BaltimoreRavens.com - Garrett Downing Baltimore Ravens QB Josh Woodrum, FB Ricky Ortiz, RB [John Crockett]( and OT Steven Moore were signed to a Reserve/Future deal Monday, Jan. 1. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Woodrum entered the league as a UDFA for the Giants out of Liberty College in 2016. At 6'3" 225 pounds, Woodrum has flashed a bit during his preseason reps. He's athletic and can threaten a defense as a runner. Backup QB Ryan Mallett is set to hit the free agent market in 2018, so Woodrum could be in the mix as the no2 QB for the Ravens behind Joe Flacco. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 31. [CLE - Eight Browns sign Reserve/Future deals]( Source: ClevelandBrowns.com Cleveland Browns WR C.J. Board, LB Austin Calitro, CB Trevon Hartfield, WR Bug Howard, RB Joshua Rounds, OT Victor Salako, CB B.W. Webb and WR [Kasen Williams]( were signed to Reserve/Futures contracts. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Undrafted out of Washington in 2015, Kasen Williams began his pro career with many questions. A failed physical got him released from the Bengals after he signed as a UDFA. The Seahawks picked him up for rookie minicamp where he could compete to impress. He spent some time active for the Seahawks, but most of his two-plus years have been spent on the practice squad. He had a great preseason for Seattle in 2017 but failed to make the 53-man roster. The Browns scooped him up and now further invest in his potential. Monitor him in super deep dynasty leagues only. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 32. [DEN - Eric Studesville let go]() Source: The Denver Post - Nicki Jhabvala Denver Broncos running backs coach Eric Studesville was fired Monday, Jan. 1. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Studesville has endured through many head coaching changes in Denver (Josh McDaniels, John Fox, Gary Kubiak, Vance Joseph) and he was the team's interim head coach in 2010 after McDaniels was fired. He wants the chance to be an OC but will likely have to latch on with another team as a RBs coach before he gets that shot. Studesville has coached many 1,000 yard rushers during his pro career, including guys like Marshawn Lynch (Bills) and most recently C.J. Anderson (Broncos). [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 33. [DEN - Three Denver coaches fired]() Source: The Denver Post - Nicki Jhabvala Denver Broncos special teams coordinator Brock Olivo, wide receivers coach Tyke Tolbert and offensive line coach Jeff Davidson were fired Monday, Jan. 1, according to sources. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] The Broncos struggled on offense and their special teams unit was one of the worst in the league. Olivo may find a D1 school interested in adding him as a head coach. Davidson had close ties to former Broncos OC Mike McCoy and may land wherever McCoy does in the future. Tolbert has been an NFL WRs coach since 2003 with stops in Arizona and Carolina before his time with the Broncos (2011-2017), and he should be able to find employment elsewhere in the league. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 34. [WAS - Washington retains plethora of players]( Source: ESPN.com - John Keim Washington Redskins OL Alex Balducci, DL Tavaris Barnes, TE Chris Bazile, RB Kenny Hilliard, OL Cameron Jefferson, OL John Kling, LB Alex McCalister, LB Cassanova McKinzy, DL Ondre Pipkins, DB James Sample and S Orion Stewart were signed to Reserve/Future contracts Monday, Jan. 1. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] A seventh-round pick of the Houston Texans in 2015, we've always had an appreciation for Kenny Hilliard in super deep dynasty leagues. He worked in a talented backfield in college at LSU, and Hilliard has natural instincts for running the ball. He's a no-nonsense runner that will take what's there and fight for more. After bouncing around on and off the practice squads in Houston and Washington, Hilliard is running out of chances to stick. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 35. [IND - Eight players signed by Colts]( Source: Colts.com Indianapolis Colts TE Mo Alie-Cox, WR Dres Anderson, DT Johnathan Calvin, WR [Kolby Listenbee](, LB Arthur Miley, LB Joshua Perry, QB Phillip Walker and OG Isaiah Williams were signed to Reserve/Future contracts Monday, Jan. 1. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Listenbee is a player we're monitoring in super deep dynasty leagues. A sixth-round pick of the Bills out of TCU in 2016, Listenbee is all about winning at the catch point. He can track passes deep and haul in contested passes with ease. Listenbee was waived by the Bills in 2017, picked up by the Dolphins for a couple of months and now finds his way to the Colts. We'll see if he can jump start his career with a new start in Indy. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 36. [CIN - Reserve/Future contracts for Bengals]() Source: Bengals.com Cincinnati Bengals LB Carl Bradford, PK Jon Brown, LB Connor Harris, OT Javarius Leamon, OG Oni Omoile, TE Scott Orndoff, CB Sojourn Shelton, SS Robenson Therezie and WR Kermit Whitfield were signed to Reserve/Future contracts Monday, Jan. 1. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Orndoff signed with the Steelers as a UDFA in 2017 out of PITT. The big tight end caught 58 passes for 897 yards and 13 touchdowns during his college career. He's spent time with three teams in 2017 (Steelers, Lions, Bengals). [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 37. [DAL - Dallas signs several to Reserve/Future deals]( Source: ESPNDallas.com - Todd Archer Dallas Cowboys CB Marquez White, WR Brian Brown, WR K.D. Cannon, S Jameill Showers, DT Joe Vellano, DL Jarron Jones and RB [Trey Williams]( were signed to Reserve/Future contracts Monday, Jan. 1. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Washington picked up Trey Williams as a UDFA out of Texas A&M in 2015. Williams has bounced around the league to six different teams and this is his second stint with the Cowboys. He's got some speed with the footwork to make moves without losing stride. Only those in super deep dynasty leagues should be monitoring Williams or any of these other skill position players signed to futures contracts by the Cowboys. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 38. [DET - Detroit makes Reserve/Future deals](=) Source: DetroitLions.com Detroit Lions CB Adairius Barnes, TE Brandon Z. Barnes, DE Alex Barrett, WR Dontez Ford, DT Toby Johnson, C Leo Koloamatangi, S Rolan Milligan, OT Dan Skipper, QB Alek Torgersen and DE Jeremiah Valoaga were signed to Reserve/Future contracts Monday, Jan. 1. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Ford is an interesting prospect to monitor in super deep dynasty leagues. At 6'2" 210 pounds, Ford plays bigger than his size. He does a good job of tracking passes deep over his shoulder and he's a smooth runner after the catch. Ford is strong and can break tackles to pick up extra yards after contact. The Lions added Ford as a UDFA out of PITT in 2017. He didn't make their final roster out of training camp, but Ford has spent the entire season on the Lions practice squad. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 39. [CHI - WR Cameron Meredith hopeful for training camp]() Source: ESPN.com - Jeff Dickerson Chicago Bears WR [Cameron Meredith]( (knee) isn't sure he'll be able to participate during the offseason program this spring, but he expects to be ready for the start of training camp. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Meredith suffered this injury in the team's third preseason game of 2017. Almost a full year removed from this injury, Meredith should be near full strength by the start of training camp barring any setbacks in his recovery. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 40. [IND - Steve Wilks sought for Indy interview](=) Source: NFL Network - Mike Garafolo Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Steve Wilks has been sought for an interview by the Indianapolis Colts for their head coaching vacancy. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] The Panthers have the 7th best defense in the league in terms of yards allowed per game. They give up an average of 317.1 yards per game, including 88.1 rushing yards per game (3rd) and 229.1 passing yards per game (18th). Wilks has been getting quite a bit of interest on Monday, but teams won't be able to officially hire him until the Panthers are done in the playoffs. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 41. [DET - Teryl Austin to interview for HC spot]( Source: ESPN.com - Josina Anderson Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Teryl Austin will interview for the head coaching spot with the Lions Tuesday, Jan. 2. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Austin has had nine head coaching interviews since he joined Jim Caldwell's staff in 2014. This may be the year he gets his shot for a head coaching position by taking Caldwell's spot with the Lions. Austin is one of four defensive coordinators the Lions are currently considering for that vacancy. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 42. [DET - Pat Shurmur requested for DET interview](=) Source: NFL Network - Tom Pelissero Minnesota Vikings offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur has been requested for an interview with the Detroit Lions for their head coaching vacancy, according to a source. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Through key injuries (Sam Bradford, Dalvin Cook), the Vikings have a top-10 scoring offense under Shurmur this year. He's got previous head coaching experience from his time with the Browns. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 43. [ARI - QB Drew Stanton update]( Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport Updating an earlier report, Arizona Cardinals QB [Drew Stanton]( (knee) has been playing with no anterior cruciate ligament for years, and no surgery is planned. Stanton knows how to manage the injury. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Wow. Stanton has always been known as a tough guy, but this takes the cake. With no surgery needed, Stanton will likely get some looks early in free agency for a team looking for veteran depth at the position. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 44. [DET - Steve Wilks sought for Detroit interview]( Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Steve Wilks has been requested for an interview by the Detroit Lions for their head coaching vacancy. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Wilks cannot be officially hired by any team until the Panthers are done playing in the postseason. The Panthers are busy this week preparing for a game on the road against the Saints. Wilks and new Giants General Manager Dave Gettleman have a previous working relationship as Gettleman was the GM with the Panthers from 2013 until being fired last July. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 45. [DET - OLB Mike Vrabel to interview with Lions]( Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport Houston Texans defensive coordinator Mike Vrabel will interview for the Detroit Lions' head coaching vacancy, according to sources. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Vrabel just got done running the Texans defense for the first year. A former linebackers coach, most of his time in the pros was with the New England Patriots. That gives him a connection to Lions GM Bob Quinn who also spent time in that first-class organization. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 46. [ARI - QB Drew Stanton played with torn ACL](=) Source: Twitter Arizona Cardinals QB [Drew Stanton]( (knee) played the final two weeks of the season with a torn anterior cruciate ligament, according to WR [Larry Fitzgerald](. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Stanton has always been known as a tough player. At age 33, Stanton is set to be an unrestricted free agent this offseason. Any sort of knee surgery would knock him out for several months. He's a veteran backup who should be on a roster in 2018 if healthy. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- [] 47. [ARI - WR Larry Fitzgerald caps career year]( Source: ESPN.com Arizona Cardinals WR [Larry Fitzgerald]( tied a career high with 109 receptions this season, topping 100 catches for the third straight season. [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] Fitzgerald signed a two-year contract extension a year ago and is on the books for $16 million in 2018 (with zero in dead money). There's no telling what his future holds as retirement is looming. With head coach Bruce Arians retiring, Fitzgerald may be done playing in the NFL. It's obvious he can still play at a high level, but the Cardinals now find themselves far away from making a championship run. [Back to Top](#top) --------------------------------------------------------------- That'll do it for today, Folks. Thanks for reading and thanks for being part of Footballguys. We'll see you tomorrow with the Update. Peace, J = --- Thank you for subscribing to our Footballguys Daily Update Email! Get your 3 Free Downloads [here](=). You are currently subscribed as {EMAIL} To unsubscribe, click [here](. * Footballguys.com * PO Box 937 * Cabot, AR 72023-0937 * News Items Powered By: =