DraftKings Network: All Posts by Chet GreshamAnother great SB Nation bloghttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/52893/DKN_Favicon_32x32..png2024-03-27T14:38:46-07:00https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/authors/chet-gresham/rss2024-03-27T14:38:46-07:002024-03-27T14:38:46-07:00Opening odds for Week 1 of the 2024 UFL season
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<img alt="A.J. McCarron #10 of the St Louis Battlehawks attempts a pass against the DC Defenders during the first half of the XFL game at Audi Field on March 5, 2023 in Washington, DC." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/P3F_cS8eJlSJLIV5u-BGF3OG3kU=/0x0:6000x4000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73237402/1471492609.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>We take a look at the odds ahead of the 2024 UFL season kickoff this weekend.</p> <p id="7gLyDP">The 2024 UFL season kicks off this weekend as all eight teams will be in action on Saturday, March 30 and Sunday, March 31. This marks the start of the first UFL season, as the league has merged the USFL and XFL.</p>
<p id="KrJ3ME">In the first game of the weekend, the USFL Champion Birmingham Stallions take on the XFL Champion Arlington Renegades. The Stallions are favored in that one, but the Renegades also went 4-6 last season and got really hot in the playoffs with Luis Perez at the helm, while the Stallions have won back-to-back championships in the USFL. I still like Perez as the best QB in that game and give the Renegades a real chance.</p>
<p id="XffIor">Overall, the XFL division has the two biggest favorites, with the Battlehawks and Defenders as 6.5 and 6-point favorites respectively. They make the XFL the stronger division going into the season. But, I am intrigued by the San Antonio Brahmas under HC Wade Phillips and OC A.J Smith, formerly of the Roughnecks. This week will be a good test for them as they get they are big underdogs to a good Defenders team. If they can slow down their rushing attack with RB Abram Smith out for the season, I like their chances to make it a game. </p>
<p id="F1bNpG">With kickoff just around the corner, let’s take a look at the odds for each game courtesy of <a href="https://www.draftkings.com/sportsbook">DraftKings Sportsbook</a>.</p>
<h2 id="ZqM0SF">Birmingham Stallions vs. Arlington Renegades</h2>
<p id="lxQqfk">Point spread: Birmingham -3.5<br>Total: 42.5<br>Moneyline: Birmingham -175, Arlington +145</p>
<h2 id="rHM1Z8">St. Louis Battlehawks vs. Michigan Panthers</h2>
<p id="UHC1cF">Point spread: St. Louis -6.5<br>Total: 42.5<br>Moneyline: St. Louis -290, Michigan +235</p>
<h2 id="z5Zagp">D.C. Defenders vs. San Antonio Brahmas</h2>
<p id="zwd6Ck">Point spread: D.C. -6<br>Total: 44.5<br>Moneyline: D.C. -278, San Antonio +225</p>
<h2 id="lGC7qD">Memphis Showboats vs. Houston Roughnecks</h2>
<p id="PVjM9L">Point spread: Houston -1<br>Total: 41.5<br>Moneyline: Houston -115, Memphis -105</p>
https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/2024/3/27/24113987/ufl-odds-2024-week-1-opening-point-spread-total-moneyline-arlington-dc-houston-st-louis-xfl-usflChet Gresham2024-03-27T07:43:42-07:002024-03-27T07:43:42-07:002024 win totals, odds for each NFL team
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<img alt="Newly appointed head coach Jim Harbaugh of the Los Angeles Chargers speaks to the media during a press conference at YouTube Theater on February 01, 2024 in Inglewood, California." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/9fOZkMbMTacIK-ElskP4ygIbroo=/0x0:4556x3037/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73236220/1978433264.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>We take a look at the NFL team win totals for the 2024 season.</p> <p id="aj215s">The 2024 NFL win total numbers and odds are now out at <a href="https://www.draftkings.com/sportsbook">DraftKings Sportsbook</a>. This is always an interesting look at how the oddsmakers see each team following free agency. And if you are a Panthers or <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/new-england-patriots--odds" data-source="encore">Patriots</a> fan, they don’t think too highly of your team’s chances to get to five wins in 2024. As usual, the previous <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/super-bowl--odds" data-source="encore">Super Bowl</a> participants, the <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs--odds" data-source="encore">Chiefs</a> and <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/san-francisco-49ers--odds" data-source="encore">49ers</a>, lead the way along with the <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/baltimore-ravens--odds" data-source="encore">Ravens</a> at 11.5 wins. </p>
<p id="8Pwgfl">The addition of Kirk Cousins in Atlanta has boosted their win total to 10.5, which is the second highest win total shared with eight other teams. While the <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/cleveland-browns--odds" data-source="encore">Browns</a>, who will get their starting QB back after winning 11 games last season, are set at 8.5 wins. Of course, these numbers also factor in their 2024 opponents, which we already know. And the Browns have the toughest schedule based on their opponent’s win percentage from last season. Playing in the AFC North where every team had a winning record doesn’t help.</p>
<h2 id="ENpfEm">Possible early bets</h2>
<p id="rorPSW">We still have the NFL Draft upcoming, but free agency has given us a good idea what teams will end up drafting a rookie quarterback and other key offensive pieces in the first and second rounds. </p>
<p id="aaHOn6">I am looking at unders for the <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/washington-commanders--odds" data-source="encore">Commanders</a> (7.5), <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/las-vegas-raiders--odds" data-source="encore">Raiders</a> (6.5), and <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/new-orleans-saints--odds" data-source="encore">Saints</a> (7.5) and overs for the Cardinals (6.5), <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/los-angeles-chargers--odds" data-source="encore">Chargers</a> (8.5), and Browns (8.5). </p>
<p id="ZR5sIl">Betting on Jim Harbaugh to turn the Chargers around seems like a good bet, as he just finds ways to win wherever he is. I don’t care for the Dan Quinn/Kliff Kingsbury duo with a poor Commanders roster despite them likely getting a good rookie QB in the draft. The Raiders have no QB worth betting on at this point and they shouldn’t be able to acquire an impact rookie in the draft. The Saints have hurt themselves with their salary cap games and are weaker on their offensive line than last year, which is bad news for Derek Carr and his middling abilities. </p>
<p id="ZWsThz">It will be interesting to see what Jonathon Gannon can do with Kyler Murray and two first round picks this season. They’ll need those picks to hit, but I liked a lot of what I saw from that team last season despite their poor record. The Browns won games with quarterbacks who were actively hurting them last season, so I expect Deshaun Watson to at least be average enough to keep them afloat while their defense continues its strong play. </p>
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https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/2024/3/27/24112851/nfl-win-total-odds-2024-picks-predictions-afc-nfc-chiefs-ravens-49ers-patriots-panthers-chargersChet Gresham2024-03-26T07:02:06-07:002024-03-26T07:02:06-07:00NFL passes new kickoff rules for 2024 season
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<img alt="The Tampa Bay Vipers and the Seattle Dragons line up for kickoff at CenturyLink Field on February 15, 2020 in Seattle, Washington." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/pkWIkS9MMJCoC4Xy1TQkiAdj0po=/0x0:3528x2352/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73233668/1201129698.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Rod Mar/XFL via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The NFL hopes to bring back the kickoff return to the NFL.</p> <p id="AbQ7ik">The NFL has actively been working at making kickoffs safer for players, but the recent rule changes have made kickoff returns nearly non-existent. Last season only 22 percent of kickoffs were returned, while none of the 13 kickoffs in the <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/super-bowl--odds" data-source="encore">Super Bowl</a> between the <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs--odds" data-source="encore">Chiefs</a> and <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/san-francisco-49ers--odds" data-source="encore">49ers</a> were returned, <a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-rules-rumors-drastic-changes-may-be-coming-to-nfl-kickoffs-in-2024-per-report/#:~:text=Only%2022%20percent%20of%20kickoffs,without%20increasing%20the%20concussion%20rate.">per CBS Sports</a>. The odds became much better for players to avoid concussions, but it began to feel that the kickoff was unnecessary. </p>
<p id="gD6DjZ">Instead of doing away with kickoffs all together, the league has borrowed a innovation used in the XFL kickoffs, which should mean more returns while still lowering the percentage of concussions. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Kicking off a new era: Owners just approved the NFL Hybrid Kickoff rule, per source. <br><br>After years of tweaks turned one of the game’s most exciting moments into a “dead, ceremonial play”, the league hopes this overhaul will yield what it wants: fewer injuries and more returns. <a href="https://t.co/jHLAjZJm0z">pic.twitter.com/jHLAjZJm0z</a></p>— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) <a href="https://twitter.com/TomPelissero/status/1772612311179579506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2024</a>
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<p id="7nPIkM">The new rule will limit the running start blockers and defenders have during kickoffs, as they won’t be able to move until the ball is caught and they will line up much closer to each other, as you can see in NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero’s visual above. </p>
<p id="Y7CDCc"><a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/buffalo-bills--odds" data-source="encore">Buffalo Bills</a>’ beat writer <a href="https://twitter.com/SalSports/status/1771940793969754247">Sal Capaccio gives us a good rundown</a> of the various rules theses changes will bring. </p>
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<p id="rpxs3S">Play starts when the ball is either caught or hits the ground in the landing zone, or is returned from the end zone.</p>
<p id="sJR2tq">Any kick that bounces from the landing zone (first 20 yards of the field) into the end zone must be either returned or downed for a touchback, giving the receiving team the ball at their own 20 yard line</p>
<p id="RNZij3">If the kick fails to reach the landing zone in the air, the receiving team takes possession at their own 40 yard </p>
<p id="mrJcvn">If the ball goes all the way to the end zone in the air, the receiving team can either return it, or down it and take possession at their own 35 yard line </p>
<p id="b0GQkL">If the ball goes out of bounds, the receiving team takes possession at their own 40 yard line </p>
<p id="hRnovc">Onside kicks are only permitted in the fourth quarter, only when trailing in score, and must be declared. Then the kicking team can line up in an onside kick formation according to current onside kick rules. </p>
<p id="6ercdH">After a safety or penalty, the set up and landing zones will not change. Only the spot of the kick will change.</p>
<p id="BRtbtp">Players can’t move until ball hits the ground OR a player in landing zone or end zone</p>
<p id="Fwi7E6">Kicker can’t cross 50 until that happens</p>
<p id="0erTFO">No fair catches</p>
<p id="Dw5Tz3">If ball falls off tee 2x, kicker can use kicking stick. Official will pick it up</p>
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<p id="K1Q7fB">These rules are tweaked a bit from the XFL rules, but the XFL did see a decrease in concussions, while adding a larger percentage of returns. </p>
<p id="EGX1Uc">These new rules will likely give kick returners a lot of space to work with and push the average return distance up. We also could see bigger players versus faster players on the kickoff team, as they will need to get through blocks more than speed past them. </p>
<p id="Zc59KT">Here’s what it looks like in practice. The new kickoff will take some getting used to, but all signs point to this being a good change for the league.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Here’s what the new NFL kickoff will look like this season: <a href="https://t.co/vtR5bqGZLK">pic.twitter.com/vtR5bqGZLK</a></p>— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/1772615947922149879?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2024</a>
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<p id="LEOyjP">And, just to give you more to chew on, this explainer from NFL Football Operations is helpful in wrapping your head around the changes. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">To address the lowest kickoff return rate in <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NFL</a> history during the 2023 season and concern for player health and safety, the NFL Competition Committee has proposed a new kickoff rule.<br><br>If adopted by NFL clubs, the new rule will keep the excitement of kickoff returns in the… <a href="https://t.co/0ltQpSrAvC">pic.twitter.com/0ltQpSrAvC</a></p>— NFL Football Operations (@NFLFootballOps) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFLFootballOps/status/1771294742426350032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2024</a>
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https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/2024/3/26/24112375/nfl-kickoff-rules-2024-season-new-xfl-returns-owners-meeting-voteChet Gresham2024-03-25T08:59:15-07:002024-03-25T08:59:15-07:00The NFL votes to penalize hip drop tackles in 2024 — What is it and should it be enforced?
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<img alt="NFL: NOV 16 Bengals at Ravens" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/VAeG80Noj9ETZufjWeTXA1I4VMU=/0x0:3900x2600/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73231518/1788206991.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Mark Goldman/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>We take a look at the new rule trying to eliminate hip-drop tackles from the NFL.</p> <p id="Tods0p">There is a new rule going into effect during the 2024 NFL season, as the NFL competition committee has voted to ban the hip-drop tackle. Unless you’ve been paying close attention or are a rugby fan, you probably don’t know much about the intricacies of the hip-drop tackle. The name of the tackle is a good one, as you can intuit what the action is like. The <a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-owners-vote-to-ban-hip-drop-tackle-at-annual-league-meeting#:~:text=The%20move%20to%20eliminate%20the,the%20knee%2C%22%20had%20unanimous%20support">NFL describes it as so</a>:</p>
<blockquote><p id="sXHkpz">When the defender grabs the runner with both hands or wraps the runner with both arms; and unweights himself by swiveling and dropping his hips and/or lower body, landing on and trapping the runner’s leg(s) at or below the knee.</p></blockquote>
<h2 id="KxLKtY">Will 2024 be a flag fest?</h2>
<p id="ZgVrsx">At this point it appears the NFL won’t flag the play often during games, <a href="https://twitter.com/jjones9/status/1772278297428189286">per Jonathon Jones</a>. That could mean we see a lot of fines after the fact as a way of cutting down on the instances in the first year of the rule. Enforcing the rule could end up looking a little like making pass-interference challengeable, as the NFL would rarely change an interference call, making the new rule fairly useless during game play. But, with a rule based on “player safety,” the NFL might going to slow roll the on-field flags until they have faith the rule can be implemented fairly. At least that is the hope. </p>
<h2 id="WoZavM">What is a hip-drop tackle? </h2>
<p id="73Wrsk">I’ve given you the league’s definition above, but let’s take a look at a few rugby clips to see it in action. Yes, there are plenty of NFL clips out there, but some rugby leagues have already penalized the tackle and you can really see the elements in these clips, along with clear explanations. </p>
<div id="0ExVJX"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5KJ9mCbS3rU?rel=0" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="oUJSRI">The tackle is very much like a horse collar tackle, as it puts offensive players in the position of their upper body being pulled backwards, while the defender often ends up putting his weight onto the back of the ball carrier’s legs. There is no doubt that this type of tackle sets players up for more lower leg injuries. The NFL puts the injury rate at 20 to 25 times that of other tackles, <a href="https://twitter.com/JoriEpstein/status/1772278421789225248">per Jori Epstein</a>. </p>
<h2 id="RGHwsk">Should the NFL have banned the hip-drop tackle?</h2>
<p id="QW9n6R">If you ask the majority of NFL fans, you likely will hear about the league turning into flag football and plenty of reactions that we wouldn’t want to print. The idea of a defender running the ball carrier down from behind and tackling him in a way we’ve seen many, many times, does feel like it could be too far. But, I think the league owes it to the players and fans to do what they can to keep players healthy if at all possible. That means testing things out like this.</p>
<p id="ESpgn7">Maybe officiating a hip-drop tack will prove to be impossible. The rule does have room for interpretation and will likely need to be reviewable, at least at NFL HQ. If they take things slow, they could be able to implement this change in a way the fans and players can eventually get on board with. The initial reactions from fans and players does not bode well for quick acceptance and that likely isn’t going to change until the NFL proves they can officiate the tackle out of the game without making the game play less entertaining. </p>
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https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/nfl/2024/3/25/24111463/nfl-2024-hip-drop-tackle-rules-enforcement-competition-committee-penalty-refsChet Gresham2024-03-14T13:51:40-07:002024-03-14T13:51:40-07:00Report: D.C. Defenders RB Abram Smith feared done for season with ACL injury
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<img alt="D.C. Defenders running back Abram Smith #4, left, runs agfainst Arlington’s T.J. Barnes during the DC Defenders defeat of the Arlington Renegades 28-26 in XFL football on April 16, 2023 at Audi Field in Washington, DC." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/sBLJAxL5xTrJewKIxQAVQ41paaY=/0x112:2669x1891/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73207798/1252222566.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by John McDonnell/The Washington Post via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Top UFL running back suffers injury in training camp</p> <p id="Kf5Z7f">The United Football League looks like it might be without its best running back for the 2024 season, as D.C. Defenders RB Abram Smith has suffered a likely torn ACL during practice Wednesday, <a href="https://twitter.com/ByMikeMitchell/status/1768374892951461956">per Mike Mitchell.</a> Smith was the XFL’s leading rusher last season and was poised for another strong year with the Defenders.</p>
<p id="K9QZLO">Smith ran the ball 157 times for 788 yards and 7 touchdowns, while catching 12 passes for 91 yards. His 5 yards per carry was tops for any back with 60+ rushing attempts. Cam’Ron Harris, Darius Hagans, and Pooka Williams are his backups, but the team still has time to add another back to the mix following this injury if they need. </p>
<p id="YSeJZf">The Defenders running game led them to the XFL Championship last year, as Smith and QB Jordan Ta’amu both saw a bunch of work on the ground. There is no doubt this is a big blow to their chances this season, but they are still a strong team and should be able to weather the storm.</p>
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https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/2024/3/14/24101199/ufl-abram-smith-injury-dc-defenders-xfl-jordan-taamu-pep-hamiltonChet Gresham2024-03-13T12:17:13-07:002024-03-13T12:17:13-07:00Fantasy football winners and losers after the start of free agency
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<img alt="Derrick Henry #22 of the Tennessee Titans warms up before the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Nashville, Tennessee at Nissan Stadium on January 7, 2024 in Houston, Texas. The Titans defeated the Jaguars 28-20." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/6XpYnmZx_YSIukWauvYu4qczxvc=/0x0:6000x4000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73204807/1924765923.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>We take a look at some fantasy football risers and fallers. </p> <p id="pDV75z">The 2024 NFL free agency season is in full swing and plenty of top players have been on the move so far. That means we have some players moving to better situations while others are now likely to see less work than was possible just a day ago. We’ll go through the winners and loser from these moves for fantasy football below here.</p>
<h2 id="GiKHlr">Winners</h2>
<h3 id="bZMKHh">Saquon Barkley, RB, Eagles</h3>
<p id="0FzoL1">Barkley goes from one of the worst run blocking o-lines to one of the best and is now set up for a huge season if he can stay healthy. In 2023, the Barkley ranked third-worst in percentage of times he was hit behind the line of scrimmage, while the <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/philadelphia-eagles--odds" data-source="encore">Eagles</a> D’Andre Swift had the lowest percentage of times he was hit behind the line of scrimmage. It should be a whole new world for Barkley.</p>
<h3 id="hbPm6f">Drake London, Kyle Pitts, Bijan Robinson — Falcons skill players</h3>
<p id="QnwcWE">Kirk Cousins may not be Patrick Mahomes when it comes to winning in the playoffs, but he can help his offensive skill players, especially when they’ve had bad QB play the last few seasons. WR Drake London likely gets the biggest boost, as he will be the No. 1 target with a good QB and the <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/los-angeles-rams--odds" data-source="encore">Rams</a> offensive scheme that has led to big years for pass catchers. The good news is that all the skill position players should get a bump with a better overall offense. </p>
<h3 id="7W7Vcj">Derrick Henry, RB, Ravens</h3>
<p id="qkPhRX">This marriage took a while to happen, but seemed inevitable. Henry, who has been a workhorse back for as long as we’ve known him, will get his shot with a great running team in Baltimore. Yes, at some point he will break down, but it didn’t happen in 2023 with a poor offensive line and stacked boxes, so there is a real chance he can give us another good fantasy season on a team with a good offensive line and MVP quarterback keeping the defensive boxes much lighter. </p>
<h3 id="0D5dwQ">Josh Jacobs, RB, Packers</h3>
<p id="jb4IXw">Jacobs was the no-doubt RB1 in Las Vegas and saw enough work to be considered a top running back in fantasy before landing in Green Bay, but he does get a step up due to the <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/green-bay-packers--odds" data-source="encore">Packers</a> being a better team with a better quarterback. If Aaron Jones had stuck around this would be different, but the Packers let Jones go and Jacobs should be the every down back in a strong offense that should only get better as their young wide receivers get more work under their belt. </p>
<h3 id="BCxXH4">Devin Singletary, RB, Giants</h3>
<p id="FQ2Wlr">Singletary was able to win out as the lead back in Houston over Dameon Pierce last season and now will head to the Giants to replace Saquon Barkley. We can’t expect a huge year for Singletary in fantasy, but he won’t have as much competition and should be a usable fantasy piece as long as strong competition isn’t added at some point in the off-season.</p>
<h3 id="emWI1M">Anthony Richardson, QB, Colts</h3>
<p id="93xQwY">Richardson still needs to grow as a passer and the <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/indianapolis-colts--odds" data-source="encore">Colts</a> re-signing their No. 1 WR Michael Pittman was imperative. I expect they will go after another wide receiver in the draft, but this was a move they needed to get done and did. </p>
<h2 id="Hx5qhQ">Losers</h2>
<h3 id="HL5lzA">Justin Fields, QB, Bears</h3>
<p id="KXlf2j">All signs point toward the <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/chicago-bears--odds" data-source="encore">Bears</a> drafting Caleb Williams first overall and sending Justin Fields off to another team and that has been reinforced by the fact nobody seems to want him starting for their team. At this point the <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/minnesota-vikings--odds" data-source="encore">Vikings</a> and <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/denver-broncos--odds" data-source="encore">Broncos</a> are the teams most in need of a quarterback, but there have been no reports of interest in Fields. We know his upside in fantasy is great, but at this point it would be a surprise to see him under center in Week 1 of the 2024 season. </p>
<h3 id="8VCYIB">Tony Pollard, Tyjae Spears, RBs, Titans</h3>
<p id="F77Igz">Pollard goes from a big workload in Dallas to likely splitting time with Spears. And Spears goes from possibly being the lead back after Derrick Henry left to once again being the backup. Pollard should be the lead back, but snap counts and touches are likely to be fluid. It’s a tough situation behind a poor offensive line.</p>
<h3 id="Du4mSt">D’Andre Swift, Khalil Herbert, RBs, Bears</h3>
<p id="aBPJwt">Swift had around 260 touches last season with the Eagles and could see the same amount in Chicago, but he will have competition and a downgrade in offensive line play. Khalil Herbert, Swift’s likely backup, has played well when healthy and should be able to siphon snaps, while Roschon Johnson at least has some chance of cutting into his receiving work. </p>
<h3 id="hv5PDj">Ty Johnson, RB, Vikings</h3>
<p id="h9s7yy">Johnson got a taste of the lead back job toward the end of last season, but it was not to be this season, as the team signed Aaron Jones after the Packers swapped him out for Josh Jacobs. Johnson still has some appeal for fantasy, as Jones is closing in on 30 years old and missed a good chunk of games last year with a hamstring injury. </p>
https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/2024/3/13/24098457/nfl-free-agency-fantasy-football-winners-losers-derrick-henry-justin-fields-drake-londonChet Gresham2024-03-13T07:58:12-07:002024-03-13T07:58:12-07:00Top remaining players at each position after Day 2 of NFL Free Agency
<figure>
<img alt="Calvin Ridley #0 of the Jacksonville Jaguars runs out for introductions before the game against the Carolina Panthers at EverBank Stadium on December 31, 2023 in Jacksonville, Florida." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/5VQ5C-e1GxuKEeOAGWszQAQxWHI=/0x0:4000x2667/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73203946/1900724156.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Who remains unsigned after Day 2 of NFL free agency?</p> <p id="aAcRw7">2024 NFL Free Agency is in Day 3 and many of the top players are off the board. But, this is the time where the best general managers get to work and find good deals to strengthen their team. And there are still plenty of solid players out there who will make teams better. We’ve listed out who remains in free agency at each position with their age below. </p>
<p id="4z4phu">So far it has been a whirlwind of signings, with Kirk Cousins leading the way as he moved from the <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/minnesota-vikings--odds" data-source="encore">Vikings</a> to the <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/atlanta-falcons--odds" data-source="encore">Falcons</a>. The quarterback shuffle has moved Russell Wilson to Pittsburgh, while Baker Mayfield stuck with the Buccaneers. Overall, running backs have seen the most movement, with many stars heading to new teams. Saquon Barkley is now with the <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/philadelphia-eagles--odds" data-source="encore">Eagles</a>, Josh Jacobs moved on to Green Bay, Derrick Henry is a Raven, Tony Pollard will split work in Tennessee, Aaron Jones joins the division rival Vikings, Austin Ekeler heads to D.C., D’Andre Swift lands in Chicago, Zack Moss replaces Joe Mixon in Cincinnati, while Mixon moved to Houston and Devin Singletary will try to fill the shoes Barkley left in New Jersey.</p>
<p id="egoGdQ">The remaining quarterbacks will hope to land in competition for a starting job if they are lucky, but most will be heading to backup jobs at best. The big offensive prizes left are Calvin Ridley, Marquise Brown, Curtis Samuel and Tyler Boyd. All four will be starters wherever they land. But, at this point the best deals are going to come in the trenches and defensive backfield. </p>
<h2 id="6L6mAn">Quarterbacks</h2>
<p id="eVHjMu">Ryan Tannehill (36) <br>Jimmy Garoppolo (32) <br>Mason Rudolph (29) <br>Joe Flacco (39) <br>Josh Dobbs (29) <br>Tyler Huntley (26) <br>Carson Wentz (31)<br>Brian Hoyer (38) <br>Easton Stick (29) </p>
<h2 id="K6BdWk">Running Backs</h2>
<p id="0cVs5j">J.K. Dobbins (25) <br>Ezekiel Elliott (29) <br>Clyde Edwards-Helaire (25) <br>A.J. Dillon (26) <br>Kareem Hunt (29) <br>Damien Harris (27) <br>D’Onta Foreman (28) <br>Alexander Mattison (26) <br>Dalvin Cook (29) <br>Cordarrelle Patterson (33) <br>Boston Scott (29) <br>Matt Breida (29) <br>Rashaad Penny (28) <br>Jerick McKinnon (32) <br>Rico Dowdle (26) <br>Latavius Murray (34) <br>Brandon Bolden (34) </p>
<h2 id="vw9KXD">Wide Receivers</h2>
<p id="VfDVX6">Calvin Ridley (29) <br>Marquise Brown (27) <br>Curtis Samuel (28) <br>Tyler Boyd (29) <br>Odell Beckham (31) <br>Michael Thomas (31) <br>D.J. Chark (28) <br>Donovan Peoples-Jones (25) <br>Josh Reynolds (29) <br>Mecole Hardman (26) <br>Jamal Agnew (29) <br>Cedrick Wilson (28) <br>Braxton Berrios (28) <br>K.J. Osborn (27) <br>Marquez Valdes-Scantling (29) <br>Russell Gage (28) <br>Parris Campbell (27) <br>Laviska Shenault (25) <br>Deonte Harty (26) <br>Mack Hollins (31) <br>Trent Sherfield (28) <br>Lynn Bowden (26) <br>RayRay McCloud (27) <br>Allen Robinson (31) <br>Randall Cobb (34) <br>Chase Claypool (26) <br>Nick WestbrookIkhine (27) </p>
<h2 id="LXFrM1">Tight Ends</h2>
<p id="OjTMPN">Logan Thomas (33) <br>Hayden Hurst (31) <br>C.J. Uzomah (31) <br>Jack Stoll (26) <br>Chris Manhertz (32) </p>
<h2 id="sZG021">Offensive Tackles</h2>
<p id="nE7A5L">Jonah Williams (26) <br>Mekhi Becton (25) <br>Tyron Smith (33) <br>Trent Brown (31) <br>Yosh Nijman (28) <br>Donovan Smith (31) <br>Josh Jones (27) <br>David Bakhtiari (32) <br>Charles Leno (32) <br>George Fant (32) <br>Cam Fleming (32) </p>
<h2 id="baz6zF">Interior Offensive Linemen</h2>
<p id="axuLDd">Connor Williams (27) <br>Andrus Peat (30) <br>Kevin Zeitler (34) <br>Cody Whitehair (32) <br>Dalton Risner (29) <br>Evan Brown (28) <br>Brian Allen (28) <br>Bradley Bozeman (29) <br>Mark Glowinski (32) <br>Laken Tomlinson (32) <br>Coleman Shelton (29) <br>Nick Gates (28) <br>Mason Cole (28) <br>Matt Hennessy (26) <br>Jon Feliciano (32) <br>Greg Van Roten (34) </p>
<h2 id="DhSxcq">EDGE </h2>
<p id="OcqYJF">Chase Young (25) <br>Jadeveon Clowney (31) <br>Yannick Ngakoue (29) <br>Carl Lawson (29) <br>Mike Danna (26) <br>Derek Barnett (28) <br>Kyle Van Noy (33) <br>Charles Harris (29) <br>D.J. Wonnum (26) <br>Rasheem Green (27) <br>Anfernee Jennings (27) <br>Jonah Williams (29) <br>Markus Golden (33) <br>Romeo Okwara (29) <br>Jerry Hughes (36) <br>Bud Dupree (31) <br>Chris Board (29) </p>
<h2 id="xIma3e">Interior Defensive Linemen</h2>
<p id="yGBNhA">D.J. Reader (30) <br>Arik Armstead (30) <br>Sheldon Rankins (30) <br>Emmanuel Ogbah (30) <br>Calais Campbell (38) <br>Foley Fatukasi (29) <br>Solomon Thomas (29) <br>Jerry Tillery (27) <br>Taven Bryan (28) <br>Poona Ford (28) <br>Lawrence Guy (34) <br>Teair Tart (27) <br>Sebastian JosephDay (29) <br>Quinton Jefferson (31) <br>Adam Butler (30) <br>Kevin Givens (27) <br>Bryan Mone (28) <br>Dean Lowry (30) </p>
<h2 id="qlasfY">Linebackers</h2>
<p id="7ah4uI">Bobby Wagner (34) <br>Devin White (26) <br>De’Vondre Campbell (31) <br>Tyrel Dodson (26) <br>Jerome Baker (27) <br>Michael Hoecht (26) <br>Denzel Perryman (31) <br>Eric Kendricks (32) <br>Zach Cunningham (29) <br>Shaq Leonard (29) <br>Cody Barton (27) <br>Oren Burks (29) <br>Christian Rozeboom (27) <br>Keanu Neal (29) <br>Nick Bellore (35) </p>
<h2 id="ZFkwEq">Cornerbacks</h2>
<p id="r3OCuq">Adoree Jackson (29) <br>Dane Jackson (27) <br>Myles Bryant (26) <br>Xavien Howard (31) <br>Kendall Fuller (29) <br>Kristian Fulton (26) <br>Stephon Gilmore (34) <br>Steven Nelson (31) <br>J.C. Jackson (28) <br>Avonte Maddox (28) <br>Jourdan Lewis (29) <br>Michael Davis (29) <br>Rock Ya-Sin (28) <br>Patrick Peterson (34) <br>Jerry Jacobs (27) <br>Siran Neal (30) <br>Chase Lucas (27) </p>
<h2 id="St1Z6d">Safeties</h2>
<p id="lWMZO0">Justin Simmons (30) <br>Micah Hyde (33) <br>Jordan Whitehead (27) <br>Kam Curl (25) <br>Eddie Jackson (30) <br>Jordan Fuller (26) <br>Tracy Walker (29) <br>Julian Blackmon (26) <br>Mike Edwards (28) <br>DeShon Elliott (27) <br>Jayron Kearse (30) <br>Quandre Diggs (31) <br>Marcus Maye (31) <br>Jamal Adams (28) <br>Rayshawn Jenkins (30) <br>Vonn Bell (29) <br>Keion Crossen (28) <br>Adrian Phillips (32) <br>Tashaun Gipson (34) </p>
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https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/2024/3/13/24099521/nfl-free-agency-2024-top-remaining-players-available-list-ryan-tannehill-jk-dobbins-calvin-ridleyChet Gresham2024-03-13T07:22:33-07:002024-03-13T07:22:33-07:00Report: Vikings won’t trade WR Justin Jefferson
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<img alt="Justin Jefferson #18 of the Minnesota Vikings competes against the Green Bay Packers in the second half at U.S. Bank Stadium on December 31, 2023 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Packers defeated the Vikings 33-10." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/fBV9eFM2sV299L36diuiaCQKIpc=/0x0:3406x2271/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73203841/1950848215.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by David Berding/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Vikings plan on keeping their star WR around for the long-term.</p> <p id="XCBfyn">The <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/minnesota-vikings--odds" data-source="encore">Minnesota Vikings</a> are on the hunt for a new quarterback after letting Kirk Cousins walk in free agency, but that move hasn’t changed their plans with star wide receiver Justin Jefferson. General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah appears settled in his stance that they plan on keeping Jefferson, <a href="https://twitter.com/DMRussini/status/1767915430629253137">per Dianna Russini</a>. This likely means they don’t plan on a full rebuild as they look to replace Cousins.</p>
<p id="ShU1y7">Jefferson has been an instant star in Minnesota, accumulating 392 receptions for 5,899 yards ad 30 touchdowns in just four seasons, one of which he missed a big chunk due to a hamstring injury. He’s very much in the best wide receiver conversation and the Vikings will look to continue building their offense around him.</p>
<p id="xqojBk">With Cousins gone, the Vikings have brought in draft bust Sam Darnold, but they are likely going to add a rookie or at least another veteran to that mix before the season starts. Jefferson himself mentioned Justin Fields as a player he likes, but there have been no reports of interest from the Vikings at this point,</p>
https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/2024/3/13/24099506/justin-jefferson-trade-rumors-vikings-kirk-cousins-free-agency-sam-darnold-justin-fieldsChet Gresham2024-03-12T11:14:35-07:002024-03-12T11:14:35-07:00Derrick Henry lands in best spot for his fantasy football upside
<figure>
<img alt="Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) takes the field before the NFL game between the Tennessee Titans and the Jacksonville Jaguars on January 7, 2024, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/tB9jndh0lFtGuP9xGK32XwbKfHM=/136x0:4203x2711/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73201728/1934975440.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Bryan Lynn/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Ravens were the best spot for Derrick Henry to end up in 2024.</p> <p id="XwIjc6">King Henry has moved his realm to Baltimore, as the <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/baltimore-ravens--odds" data-source="encore">Ravens</a> plan to sign the longtime <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/tennessee-titans--odds" data-source="encore">Titans</a> running back via free agency, <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/1767591767455510996">per ESPN’s Adam Schefter</a>. Henry has topped 2k rushing yards in a single season and put up huge rushing statistics his whole career despite barely working in the passing game. Lamar Jackson gets the best running back he’s ever had on the team and Henry gets another shot at a <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/super-bowl--odds" data-source="encore">Super Bowl</a> run. </p>
<h2 id="qE0xNe">Derrick Henry’s new contract numbers</h2>
<p id="tnE3ag">Derrick Henry is signing a two-year, $16 million deal worth up to $20 million, including $9 million fully guaranteed. It isn’t a huge payday for the 30-year old, but it sets him up as the lead back in 2024 without a doubt. </p>
<h2 id="KfRrbN">2023 statistics</h2>
<p id="JwbzmK">Henry led the league once again in rushing attempts, with 280, which he took for 1,167 yards and 12 touchdowns for a 4.2 yards per carry pace. He also caught 28-of-36 targets for 214 yards. </p>
<h2 id="V33xN0">Henry fits well in the Ravens offense</h2>
<p id="K5GAcf">The Baltimore Ravens are used to not throwing the ball to their running backs, which is fine for Henry, who can catch the ball, but isn’t as adept as other backs at the job. He will be the lead back and get plenty of work behind a Top 10 offensive line. Plus, he’ll have one of the best rushing quarterbacks of all time taking attention away from him on most downs. </p>
<p id="bRHZhB">Last season Ravens running backs had 28 rushing attempts inside the opponent’s 5-yard line, 3rd-most in the league. Their 15 touchdowns from those 28 attempts tied for the most running back touchdowns scored inside the opponent’s 5-yard line. That sets up great for Henry, who should see all of that work this season. Twelve of Gus Edward’s 13 touchdowns came from inside the opponent’s 5-yard line. Henry should be able to get those goal line looks while also bringing more to the table than Edwards outside goal line work.</p>
<p id="SCU26L">Overall, Henry’s fantasy upside remains huge in Baltimore. Yes, he has plenty of wear and tear from a career of carrying the load, but he was still an explosive back in 2023 and as long as he can stay on the field and healthy, he will put up good touchdown numbers without much trouble. </p>
https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/2024/3/12/24094872/nfl-free-agency-2024-derrick-henry-contract-ravens-fantasy-football-lamar-jackson-gus-edwardsChet Gresham2024-03-11T15:17:31-07:002024-03-11T15:17:31-07:00NFL Free Agency grades: Saquon Barkley, Kirk Cousins, Josh Jacobs and more
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<img alt="Kirk Cousins at Radio Row at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center ahead of Super Bowl LVIII on February 09, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/L17eGK1RhfVh2-XWj9rsueluOjY=/0x1:5636x3758/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73199341/1999141874.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Candice Ward/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>How have teams fared early on in free agency? We look at some of the biggest moves from Day 1.</p> <p id="DPu5Vt">NFL free agency is in full swing and we’ve seen plenty of moves through the first day of legal tampering. The running back market has been popping, while Kirk Cousins once again gets a big pay day. We’ll go through some of the bigger moves and grade them out. </p>
<h2 id="rr4izl">RB Saquon Barkley to sign with Eagles</h2>
<p id="Z8oKKd">The <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/philadelphia-eagles--odds" data-source="encore">Eagles</a> ended last season on a down note after a very strong start and it appears they are now ready to put up some real cash for an every down back. Barkley isn’t breaking the bank, but with running backs being devalued of late, his 3-year deal worth $37.75M base value and $26 million guaranteed shows the Eagles really wanted him and plan to use him. </p>
<p id="8zkatL">D’Andre Swift is now in Chicago and nobody else at the position should cut into Barkley’s work unless he needs a rest. And pairing him with Jalen Hurts will make it tough for defenses to key on one rusher. </p>
<p id="4WhoFz">Grade A-</p>
<h2 id="MQIVst">QB Kirk Cousins to sign with Falcons</h2>
<p id="T53Vcl">Cousins signed a 4-year deal worth $180 million if he were to play all four years, but in reality he has $100 million in guaranteed money for the first two seasons. However they got him, it was the best move they could have made at the most important position. I am no Cousins fan, but there’s no doubt he is an above-average and consistent quarterback. And without a Top 3 NFL Draft pick, the <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/atlanta-falcons--odds" data-source="encore">Falcons</a> weren’t going to find another quarterback who was ready to win now with their team. And their team does have some nice offensive pieces to pair with Cousins, like Drake London, Bijan Robinson and Kyle Pitts. </p>
<p id="JrwwRq">It feels a little weird to give Cousins an A for anything, as he is more of a B- quarterback, but the Falcons desperately needed to make a move like this, especially in a division that is very much up for grabs. </p>
<p id="h3pRhu">Grade A</p>
<h2 id="lwRf2D">Josh Jacobs to sign with Green Bay Packers</h2>
<p id="gO51DA">This signing makes sense, as their starting running back Aaron Jones couldn’t stay healthy last season and they are probably letting backup A.J. Dillon walk in free agency. Also, despite Jones having better overall numbers than Jacobs in his career, Jones is three years older than Jacobs. This move is more about staying ahead of Jones’ inevitable drop in production due to age, as the team and fans loved Jones, who has now been released. </p>
<p id="LTqipX">Jacobs has been somewhat injury prone, but also has shown he can be a top-tier every down back. He oddly has never scored a receiving touchdown despite 197 receptions, but he is a good receiving back and has just been unlucky in the touchdown receptions department. The team also isn’t on the hook for his whole contract and can get out of it after one year and $15 million. But, if he can stay healthy and have a strong season, they have him under contract for four seasons. </p>
<p id="eMik0b">For the most part, I rather teams not sign free agent running backs, as the odds aren’t great for a good return. But, this deal looks very team friendly.</p>
<p id="bQu2uD">Grade B+</p>
<h2 id="6zYq41">RB D’Andre Swift to sign with Bears</h2>
<p id="Sq9qvx">The <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/chicago-bears--odds" data-source="encore">Bears</a> already have Khalil Herbert and Roschon Johnson at running back, but have decided to give the lead job to newly acquired D’Andre Swift. Swift was good with the Eagles, but also had a strong offensive line and scheme to help out. It’s tough not to think of the Eagles letting Miles Sanders walk last season only for the Panthers to bench him. </p>
<p id="Lf4SLg">Swift is an explosive runner and can break off big plays, but he’s not exactly a running back you can count on to pick up those extra yards between the tackles. I see Herbert getting more work than expected while sharing snaps with Swift as long as both can stay healthy,</p>
<p id="piaKy3">Grade D</p>
<h2 id="T0AHGK">RB Tony Pollard to sign with Titans</h2>
<p id="7ViJey">Pollard had an extremely down season in 2023, as his explosiveness appeared completely sapped after offseason leg surgery. Thankfully, he did seem to get some of that burst back toward the end of the season. Of course, there is plenty of concern that he just isn’t the extreme playmaker he was just two seasons ago. And it showed in his 3-year deal that gives him $8 million per season. If he was a free agent before his leg injury, he’d have made a lot more. </p>
<p id="iV0Uof">The <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/football/nfl/tennessee-titans--odds" data-source="encore">Titans</a> are letting Derrick Henry walk in free agency and are adding a much different kind of back than Henry in Pollard. The Titans also have RB Tyjae Spears, who showed plenty of spark in his rookie 2023 campaign. Pollard is still the bigger back and likely the lead, but both can catch the ball and have overlapping skills. </p>
<p id="ejP19G">Grade C</p>
<h2 id="5Y2wma">Gabe Davis to sign with Jaguars</h2>
<p id="yGcSwW">Davis will move on from getting passes from Josh Allen to receiving passes from Trevor Lawrence this season. We all remember Davis’ huge 200 yards, 4 touchdown playoff game, but that also reminds us that he’s been incredibly inconsistent overall. And that inconsistency came in one of the better quarterbacks and offenses in the league. </p>
<p id="fQkeN2">The new Jaguars receiver won’t make WR1 money, as his new contract pays him $13 million per year, but it is a decent chunk of change. Davis is a good blocker and deep threat. The Jaguars aren’t getting a lemon, but they also aren’t getting a receiver you can count on all over the field. </p>
<p id="YB89zh">They still could end up keeping Calvin Ridley, as he remains on the market, but by itself, I’d rather they skipped on Davis. </p>
<p id="Kpqr36">Grade C-</p>
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https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/2024/3/11/24097773/nfl-free-agency-2024-grades-contracts-signing-saquon-barkley-kirk-cousins-josh-jacobsChet Gresham