JuJu Smith-Schuster is an open book. Unless you ask the Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver about the left knee issue that's forced him to spend most of the offseason watching workouts instead of participating in them.

"You can talk to Mike Tomlin about that Customized Tennessee Titans Jerseys ," Smith-Schuster said Wednesday.

Smith-Schuster described the injury as something that built up over time and came to a point where he realized he couldn't simply hope it disappeared on his own, so he got it checked out. He offered no details but stressed he will be fully recovered when the team reports to training camp at Saint Vincent College on July 25.

"For sure," he said. "Especially when you get this five-week break. I think I'll be ready."

The AFC North champions need him to be. Smith-Schuster heads into his second season firmly entrenched as the No. 2 receiver behind All-Pro Antonio Brown after the Steelers dealt talented but mercurial Martavis Bryant to Oakland during the NFL draft. Bryant did little to hide his frustration when Smith-Schuster bypassed him on the depth chart.

It's a relationship that plays in stark contrast 鈥?at least in mid-June 鈥?to the way Smith-Schuster has welcomed second-round pick James Washington into the fold.

"We kind of have the same body type, he's playing inside and out (like me)," Smith-Schuster said. "Super excited to see what he can do."

It's a label Smith-Schuster might as well place on himself after becoming a revelation in more ways than one in 2017. He caught 58 passes for 917 yards and seven touchdowns, earned respect in the locker room for his fearless blocking and a social media sensation for his intricate and highly shareable touchdown celebrations. Hide and Seek anyone?

Yet it's the memory of the final touchdown he scored last season that will stick with him. He hauled in a 4-yard toss from Ben Roethlisberger with 1 second left in a 45-42 playoff loss to Jacksonville. All it did was pretty up the final score. By then Authentic Tarvarius Moore Jersey , the game had already been decided and a season filled with typically high aspirations was over.

"I was 'Whatever' about it," Smith-Schuster said. "Like I wanted to celebrate but what is there to celebrate. We took the 'L.'"

Smith-Schuster returned to his native Southern California for a few weeks in the offseason, where the 21-year-old discovered his profile had risen considerably since the time he left. Part of that is by design. Smith-Schuster's social media feeds are a glimpse into a young athlete attempting to live their best life at all times.

He's playing Fortnite. He's at Coachella . He's hanging with his French bulldog Boujee . He's chilling with his family. He spent time at EA Sports last weekend getting a glimpse at the latest edition of the "Madden" football franchise, a version that includes plenty of digital post-touchdown antics by the guy in black-and-gold wearing No. 19. Smith-Schuster figures it's a sign of things to come.

"Got to be No. 1 in celebrations," he said. "But that's going to come after we take care of business though."

Therein lies the challenge for Smith-Schuster. He is no longer an unknown quantity. And he's passed the title as "NFL's Youngest Player" to Buffalo Bills rookie linebacker Tremaine Edmunds. More will be expected of him on the field, and he's well aware there are greater demands of his time off it. Finding balance will be a vital part of his progress.

Brown appeared to reach a breaking point of sorts on Tuesday when he vaguely talked about outside "pressure" during a rambling meeting with reporters. There's none of that on Smith-Schuster Derwin James Chargers Jersey , at least not yet. It may come at some point.

Darrius Heyward-Bey, the elder statesman in Pittsburgh's wide receiver room, isn't concerned about Smith-Schuster's maturation process 鈥?provided he attacks things with the right perspective.

"(I) just let him know that A: you wouldn't have all that stuff if it wasn't for football,'" Heyward-Bey said. "Yes, you've got to have the personality but if you're not the guy scoring touchdowns, making big plays Falcons Elite Jerseys , nobody cares about you so to speak. So if he keeps football first and understands you've got to work harder and always improve on your game each and every year, I think he'll be fine."

Smith-Schuster won't lack for opportunities considering the extra attention Brown and All-Pro running back Le'Veon Bell are sure to attract every week. The way he figures it, that's why he's playing in the first place.

"I mean, I want it," Smith-Schuster said. "I love it. This is why I'm here. This is why I love the game so whatever they put on my shoulders, I'm going to carry and do what I can do for this year."

Free agent cornerback Davon House is returning to the Green Bay Packers after agreeing to terms on a one-year deal.

General manager Brian Gutekunst announced the signing on Friday.

House was Green Bay's fourth-round draft pick in 2011. He's the second former Packers cornerback to return to the defense this offseason Authentic Alex Ovechkin Jersey , joining Tramon Williams.

House started all 12 games he played last year in Green Bay, finishing fourth on the team with nine passes defended. A respected veteran in the locker room, House had shoulder and back injuries in 2017.

He played the previous two seasons in Jacksonville after a four-stint in Green Bay to start his NFL career.

The Packers may still be looking for help at cornerback in this year's draft, which starts April 26.

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A harbor seal that gained some fame by making annual Super Bowl picks usually incorrectly has died at a Connecticut aquarium.

The 35-year-old seal was named Orange and had been at the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk since 2005. The aquarium said Monday that Orange had been undergoing treatment for cancer.

Orange was the aquarium's oldest seal. She was found stranded as a pup in 1982 and was rehabilitated at the National Aquarium in Baltimore before moving to Connecticut.

For the past seven years she would predict a Super Bowl winner by swimming to the window of her tank and putting her nose on a picture of the helmet of one of the two competing teams. She was right only twice: the New England Patriots in 2017 and the Philadelphia Eagles in 2018.

Baker Mayfield intends to conquer Chad Thomas Color Rush Jersey , not divide.

Although drafted by the win-starved Cleveland Browns with the No. 1 overall pick to be their quarterback of the future, Mayfield said Friday he plans to be a leader from the outset even if he doesn't start as a rookie.

Tyrod Taylor is the team's presumptive opening-week starter against Pittsburgh, and while Mayfield intends to compete for the job in training camp, he won't allow personal ambition to get in the way of team goals.

He won't step on any toes.

"It's not about individuals," Mayfield said as the Browns opened their three-day rookie minicamp. "They brought him and I in because we're both team-oriented guys. He's the starter, and all I can do is help us out. So it's not going to be something that separates the locker room. We're not going to be fighting over who's the man in the locker room.

"I'm a team-oriented guy and I just want to win."

Mayfield's leadership and drive were part of the self-assured Oklahoma quarterback's appeal to the Browns, who believe 鈥?in time 鈥?he can turn around a team that has gone 1-31 the past two seasons.

The plan for now is for Taylor to start and Mayfield to learn while watching a quarterback who led the Buffalo Bills to their first playoff appearance in 18 years last season. The Browns traded for Taylor in March before they reached a consensus on taking Mayfield, who won a Heisman Trophy last season while losing some fans for objectionable on-field antics.

But Mayfield's a pro now Youth Alex Cappa Jersey , he claims more mature from his mistakes, and he's got a clean slate and a new set of priorities. At the top of his list: earning the trust of his teammates.

To do that, Mayfield intends to be himself, which means he'll go at it full throttle.

"I've got to continue my strengths, and leadership is one of them," he said. "So when you talk about that, it's earning the respect of the veterans in the locker room. The guys who have been doing it for a while, I have to earn their respect. You can't talk about it and earn their respect. You have to go to work. You have to put the time in. You've got to learn the playbook Trenton Cannon Jersey Elite , and then when you get your opportunity, you've got to show that you're there for a reason."

Mayfield said he met Taylor when the QB stopped in while he was in quarterbacks coach Ken Zampese's office. Mayfield has been impressed with Taylor's commitment and openness.

"Everything I've heard, even when I went on my visit at the Bills, they said the same things about him, he's just an unbelievable guy," Mayfield said. "You see that and then you see him up here, how often he's actually here, it's very transparent who he is."

Mayfield knows he has a lot to learn. He's been digging into Cleveland's playbook Cheap Josh Allen Jersey , so the X's and O's make sense when he's on the practice field. He intends to be physically and mentally fit by the time training camp opens in July.

In the meantime, he's learning about Cleveland while Cleveland learns about him.

On Thursday night, Mayfield and the team's other rookies had dinner with some Browns alumni, including Hall of Famer Jim Brown, quarterback Bernie Kosar and others. They were told about what it's like to play for a fan base longing to see the Browns win again.

"The one thing I keep hearing about is the loyalty of the fans," Mayfield said. "I think about how they deserve a team that's winning, a team they can rally behind and that's what they'll do no matter what. This franchise is built on winning, they've been winning in the past and some of those guys set the tone. So right now we're trying to get back to that."

NOTES: The Browns said their trade on Wednesday with Kansas City JK Scott Jersey Elite , swapping tight end Randall Telfer for Chiefs defensive end Dadi Nicolas, has been voided. The team did not provide any further details. Cleveland waived Telfer, a 2015 sixth-round draft pick.
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Matt Ryan barked out a play Cheap Tremaine Edmunds Jersey , took the snap and zipped a pass to the receiver who played his college ball at Alabama.

Nope, it wasn't Julio Jones.

He's sitting out the team's voluntary offseason program. So it was Calvin Ridley 鈥?a first-round draft pick from the Crimson Tide 鈥?who got a chance to shine during a 90-minute practice Wednesday.

But, for a team with Super Bowl aspirations, it was impossible to ignore the absence of No. 11.

So, where's Julio?

The Falcons say it's no big deal, even as they talk constantly about the importance building camaraderie and trust in each other during the voluntary offseason workouts, a big part of coach Dan Quinn's much-ballyhooed "Brotherhood ."

Jones said his absence has nothing to do with any hard feelings toward the only team he's played with in the NFL, but he's vague about his reasons for staying away and it seems fairly obvious that he's trying to send a message about his desire for a new contract.

While Jones still has three seasons remaining on the last deal he signed 鈥?a five-year, $71.3 million extension with $47 million in guaranteed money 鈥?his average salary is now less than at least a half-dozen receivers around the league. Most tellingly, recent deals with Tampa Bay's Mike Evans and Cleveland's Jarvis Landry seemed to set a whole new financial bar for the NFL's top pass catchers, a list that certainly includes Jones.

In addition, he surely took note when the Falcons made quarterback Matt Ryan the league's NFL's first $100 million man , agreeing to a new deal that assures the quarterback of at least that much in guaranteed money and could average out to as much as $30 million annually over five seasons.

Rarely flustered, Ryan got a bit testy when asked about missing out on a chance to work with his favorite receiver during OTAs.

"We'll have our chances to work together," the QB said. "I'm not going to go into it more than that. It's not really anybody else's business."

Jones has gone silent on social media and hasn't spoken in months to the Atlanta media, but he did provide some reassuring words to Falcons fans when the gossip site TMZ caught up with him last weekend as he was leaving a swanky restaurant in West Hollywood .

"Everyone wants a story right now. There's no story to be told," Jones insisted. "I'm just working on getting myself better. I'm just working on myself right now. That's all that is. There's no bad blood between me and the team or anything like that."

Jones insisted that he plans to remain with the Falcons for the rest of his career Uchenna Nwosu Jersey , echoing a sentiment expressed by owner Arthur Blank.

"Everybody on the outside (is) trying to look in and trying to destroy what we built there," Jones said. "I'm not going nowhere. I'll be there. I love the team. I love the organization. I love everybody there. I'm good."

Still, Jones' decision to skip OTAs has been a major topic of conversation around Atlanta, with fans and sports talk radio weighing in almost daily on his future with a team that reached the Super Bowl during the 2016 season and the second round of the playoffs last season.

Everyone can rest easy, Quinn insisted.

Jones has assured his coach that he'll be at the team's mandatory minicamp, which is scheduled for June 12-14.

"The guys who are really close to him, obviously they keep up," Quinn said outside the locker room after practice. "It's not like they don't hang out and talk on the phone and do stuff together. They may not be spending the amount of time here, in the building, that they normally do. But that doesn't mean they don't spend time away from here. So, no issues on our end.

"I know he's working really hard. I've had contact with him, obviously. We can't wait to get him back, here, with the guys. But he's really putting good work in. I think we'll see the results of that work, hopefully soon."

The 29-year-old Jones is a huge weapon in the Falcons' offense , using his rare combination of speed, size and power to shake off constant double-teams. Last season Cheap Derwin James Jersey , he had 88 catches for 1,444 yards 鈥?his fourth straight season with at least 80 receptions and 1,400 receiving yards. In 2015, he had one of the greatest seasons ever by an NFL receiver 鈥?136 catches (tied for the second most in league history behind Marvin Harrison's 143) and 1,871 yards (surpassed only by Calvin Johnson's record of 1,954) .

Ryan certainly recognizes the bond he has with his favorite receiver.

They've been together since 2011. They won't be any trouble getting back in sync, Ryan said confidently.

As soon as Jones shows up, that is.

"No concern," Ryan said. "He's always been extremely well prepared coming into seasons, going into games. Talk about being on the same page: we've played together for a long time. When he's healthy and he feels good , like he does right now ... it's very easy to get on the same page. He's so talented. So, we're fine."

Follow Paul Newberry on Twitter at pnewberry1963 . His work can be found at s://apnews/search/paul%20newberry

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Portland Trail Blazers must try to slow down Anthony Davis. The New Orleans Pelicans must do what they can to control Damian Lillard.

The seemingly impossible task becomes the ultimate challenge as each player leads his team into a first-round playoff series that opens Saturday night at Moda Center.

Portland (49-33) is the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference and New Orleans (48-34) the No. 6 seed. Only one game separated the teams through a wild, competitive regular season, with spots going down to the final day.

The 6-foot-11 Davis and the 6-foot, 3-inch Lillard play different positions, but they’re both likely first-team All-NBA selections this season. Davis is in the conversation for the Most Valuable Player Award Authentic Sampo Ranta Jersey , too.

Davis finished second in the NBA in scoring at 28.1 points per game, was fifth in rebounds (11.1) and led the league in efficiency rating at 33.0. After fellow “Twin Tower” DeMarcus Cousins was lost for the season in late January with an Achilles tendon injury, Davis carried the load for a New Orleans team that went 20-8 since Feb. 10, winning its last five games.

“Losing a player like DeMarcus changes your team, but they still have Anthony Davis out there,” Lillard said. “That’s a good problem to have. He’s one of the very best players in our league. Anybody guarding him is going to have a tough time. He can handle the ball, shoots the 3, hit pull-ups and floaters and go coast to coast.”

Portland coach Terry Stotts is expected to use both 7-foot center Jusuf Nurkic and 6-foot-9 Al-Farouq “Chief” Aminu to defend Davis, who had 36-point games in the two full contests he played against the Blazers this season. Davis and Aminu played two seasons together in New Orleans in 2012-13 and 2013-14.

“Chief has the height and length to do a good job on (Davis),” Lillard said. “Plus he has the understanding how to guard guys, and he played with him, so he’s familiar with his tendencies. But it’s going to take a team effort. We’re going to have to be ready to play physical with him.”

“There are a lot of good players in this league,” Nurkic said. “He’s one of them. I’m not worried about Anthony Davis. He’s going to make his shots. He’s probably going to get his points. We need to worry about the rest of the team. Some of the other guys, like (Nikila) Mirotic, can have an impact. I’m more worried about one of those guys getting hot, because they have a lot of shooters.”

Lillard tied for fourth in the NBA in scoring at 26.9 points a game, was 10th in assists (6.6) and 11th in efficiency rating at 25.0. He combines with CJ McCollum (21.4-point average Arden Key Jersey Elite , 19th in the NBA) to form one of the most potent backcourt combinations in the league.

“You have to work as hard as you can defensively and hope they are not having one of those great nights they’re capable of having,” New Orleans coach Alvin Gentry said. “Dame is one of the best clutch players in the league. I feel like he’s been an All-Star the last five, six years. He has a way about him, a confidence about him, that he feels like when his team needs a basket the most, he can go get it.”

Davis said he holds great respect for the Blazers but isn’t just happy to be in the playoffs.

“It starts with their guards,” he said. “They are a handful. They can score at will. They’re a good defensive team. We have to make sure we don’t turn the ball over, take care of the defensive boards and play defense.

“Our goal is to not just get in the playoffs, but to make some noise. We want to try to get one, maybe both, of the games (in Portland), then go back home and take care of business.”

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27. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (12-6)

LAST SEASON: Extraordinary 2017 draft yielding offensive rookie of year Alvin Kamara and defensive rookie of year Marshon Lattimore propelled Saints back into ranks of contenders. Fell just seconds short of playing in NFC title game. QB Drew Brees Jaleel Scott Jersey Elite , 39, showed virtually no sign of age, completing NFL-record 72 percent of passes. Offense ranked second in NFL, aided by resurgent running game. Lattimore and rookie safety Marcus Williams considerably improved pass coverage, and veteran DE Cameron Jordan had first All-Pro season, highlighted by 13 sacks, as defense improved considerably.

THEY NEED: DE, TE, OL Customized Tampa Bay Buccaneers Jerseys , DT, WR, LB.

THEY DON'T NEED: RB, QB, S, CB.

POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: DT Da'Ron Payne, Alabama; DE Sam Hubbard, Ohio State; DE Arden Key, LSU; TE Hayden Hurst Authentic Drew Hutchison Jersey , South Carolina; WR D.J. Moore, Maryland; LB Rashaan Evans, Alabama.

OUTLOOK: During free agency, Saints tried to put themselves in position to draft best players available, regardless of position. Bolstered defense by signing S Kurt Coleman, CB Patrick Robinson and LB Demario Davis. Added WR Cameron Meredith and TE Ben Watson to passing game and sought to improve depth on offensive line with veteran Jermon Bushrod. However, Saints were unable to sign big-name DE or DT, so those areas could become draft priorities, particularly in light of coach Sean Payton's recent comments that improving pass rush is "a must."
Shane Ray's ailing left wrist needs another surgery. This one could sideline the pass rusher for several months.

The Denver Broncos outside linebacker is expected to undergo a fourth operation on the wrist Cheap Minkah Fitzpatrick Jersey , a person with knowledge of the situation told The Associated Press on Wednesday. The person spoke to the AP on the condition of anonymity because the team hasn't announced the news.

Ray suffered the injury during training camp last July, which caused him to miss the opening six games in 2017. He had one sack over the next eight contests before going back on injured reserve.

This week, he sat out several days of voluntary workouts with what coach Vance Joseph described as a wrist that was sore. This after Ray spent the offseason bulking up from 219 pounds to around 247 to be a pass-rushing force alongside Von Miller and rookie Bradley Chubb, who was taken with the No. 5 pick.

"Everybody thought I had a simple wrist injury," Ray recently said. "Well, you don't have three surgeries in a season for a simple wrist injury. I dislocated my entire wrist. I had to get it screwed back together and repair the main tendon in my wrist."

The Broncos didn't pick up the fifth-year option on Ray, who was a first-round selection in 2015. His option 鈥?$9.23 million 鈥?would have been worth more than the four-year, $9,118 Devin Hester Bears Jersey ,894 rookie contract he signed after the Broncos selected him.

Ray said he understood the business decision by the Broncos. But it adds fuel. So does the team selecting Chubb.

"I always have motivation," said the 25-year-old Ray, who's started just 15 games in three NFL seasons, with 13 sacks and two fumble recoveries. "The option? That's motivation. Chubb coming in? For him to come in and challenge me, I look at that as a motivation. I look forward to all these things coming into this season.

"I'm going to play as hard as I can and do what I was brought here to do."
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Already owning one of the strongest defensive lines in the league Authentic Aleksander Barkov Jersey , the Minnesota Vikings have made another addition to their front four this summer.

He even was a former first-round draft pick.

Anthony Barr has established his place as the strong side linebacker, an integral part of coach Mike Zimmer's pressure-driven scheme. This switch is not by any means complete or permanent, considering the value Barr has given the Vikings while rarely missing a snap in the middle of the defense with former college teammate Eric Kendricks. With Brian Robison capably spelling Everson Griffen and Danielle Hunter at the defensive end spots, there's not a glaring need for one.

Sliding Barr and his athleticism and speed to the front, though, provides yet another way Zimmer and the Vikings can attack an offense.

"Definitely, it could be a change-up for us," Barr said. "Hopefully I can get a couple more opportunities to do that, and we'll see where it goes. It's something I'm going to continue to work on and get better at. I'm excited for it."

The Vikings have used passing-situation packages this offseason that include cornerback Terence Newman at safety while making Harrison Smith a hybrid linebacker. Put Barr at defensive end Authentic Marcus Davenport Jersey , and Everson Griffen can move inside. Or Barr could simply line up as a fifth down lineman. Either way, that's the potential for quite the fierce pass rush.

"We are just trying to utilize our guys the best way we can," Zimmer said. "If a guy has a skill set of being possibly a pass rusher, then we're going to look at him and see if he can be a pass rusher. If a guy's a great inside cover guy, then we're going to try and look at him there."

Barr has taken plenty of turns with the defensive linemen during individual drills in training camp so far, evidence that this is more than just a token experiment.

"It's a conscious effort in getting him into rush situations where he knows what to do," Zimmer said. "I really don't have any concerns when he's rushing on a back, but sometimes when he gets on a bigger stronger guy and gets in certain positions, he has to know what to do."

Barr was the first player the Vikings drafted after hiring Zimmer in 2014 Cheap Cody Latimer Jersey , the ninth overall selection out of UCLA who spent only two years with the Bruins on defense after beginning his college career as a running back. With 10陆 sacks, six forced fumbles, four fumble recoveries and one interception over four seasons, Barr has left himself plenty of room to improve on such modest statistics. There are many more ways to contribute than those basic measurements, of course, but Zimmer's matter-of-fact assessment in 2016 that Barr "has a tendency to coast a little bit" still hovers over his trajectory.

Across the NFL, Barr is known mostly for his hit on Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers in the sixth game of the year that led to a broken collarbone and set the NFC North rivals on opposite courses in 2017. Interestingly, referee Pete Morelli told reporters at Minnesota's practice facility on Thursday that the league's stricter rules about targeting defenseless players would now make that play a 15-yard penalty.

Barr is the only core player left on an expiring contract, with extensions recently signed by wide receiver Stefon Diggs Logan Woodside Jersey Bengals , defensive end Danielle Hunter and Kendricks. Barr's salary for 2018 is a little more than $12.3 million, and he hinted at disappointment when spring practices began without a new deal. He didn't address the subject in his first remarks to reporters at training camp.

"My focus is here at camp, getting better with the team, and we'll let that figure itself out," he said.

If this defensive end thing works well, Barr's price will only go higher.

"I'll never talk business out in the open or in public," general manager Rick Spielman said. "I'll just tell you he fits everything that we want as a Minnesota Viking."

Oscar Robertson commends the off-court activism of today’s NBA players, although the Hall of Famer wonders why more white athletes aren’t speaking out, too.

Robertson received the Lifetime Achievement Award from presenters Charles Barkley and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar at the NBA Awards on Monday night.

Robertson is the career leader in triple-doubles and was the first player to average one for a season. His antitrust case against the NBA also ushered in free agency for players Cheap Baker Mayfield Jersey , which Robertson said was his most important assist.

The 79-year-old former guard who starred at Crispus Attucks High in Indianapolis and in college at Cincinnati before going to the NBA said it’s time for players to speak out about politics and education, among other issues.

”But the only thing that really bothers me is where are the white athletes when this is happening?” he said backstage. ”This is not a black athlete problem. You see injustice in the world. It’s all around you.”

Robertson’s high school and college career was plagued by racism.

”But it seems that what we have today is a system where you don’t want players to say anything at all,” he said. ”Because years ago they didn’t say anything because they couldn’t say anything. But now I hope they all, the whites and the blacks get together. Even with the football.”

Robertson was referring to NFL players who have taken a knee or sat in silence during the national anthem to protest police brutality and racial inequality.

”What do you think is going to happen when the union gets involved with the owners?” he said ”You think it’s going to be settled really easily? No, it’s not. It’s going to be nothing but a total mess.”

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MIAMI — The Arizona Diamondbacks are in first place in the National League West Authentic Antonio Callaway Jersey , and the Miami Marlins are last in the NL East.

Yet, this four-game series between Arizona and Miami — which started on Monday night with a 9-5 Marlins win — doesn’t have the feel of an elite juggernaut against a helpless loser.

The Marlins have won three games in a row and are 12-11 in June. They arrived home on Monday from their first winning road trip (5-4) of the season.

Miami on Tuesday will return right-hander Elieser Hernandez (0-4, 5.12 ERA) to the rotation after three weeks in the bullpen. He replaces Jose Urena, who is on the disabled list due to a shoulder injury.

Hernandez, a Rule 5 draft pick from the Houston Astros, had a 4.50 ERA during four starts in late May and early June.

The Diamondbacks, who have won four of their past five games, will start right-hander Zack Godley (8-5, 4.64 ERA).

Godley is 3-0 with a 2.95 ERA in his past three starts, striking out 21 batters in 18 1/3 innings.

His arsenal includes a low-90-mph sinker as well as a cutter and curve.

“Velocity is not a huge concern for me with Zack,” Arizona manager Torey Lovullo told The Arizona Republic. “He has so much deception, spin and movement.”

Godley, who made his major league debut in 2015 Authentic Jordan Akins Jersey , is one win away from setting a single-season career high in wins. His career record is 26-19 with a 4.30 ERA. He averages 8.8 strikeouts per nine innings for his career as well as 9.0 in that stat this year.

Meanwhile, the Marlins are hoping to return their top player to the lineup — catcher J.T. Realmuto, who is batting .308 with 18 doubles, three triples, 10 homers, 32 RBIs and a .916 OPS.

Realmuto took a foul ball off his right wrist on Sunday and was rested on Monday.

“That last at-bat (on Sunday), he took a swing,” Marlins manager Don Mattingly said. “You could tell something was bothering him.

“We think it will just be for one day. Let’s see how he feels. He was really sore (on Monday).”

The Marlins managed to win without Realmuto on Monday, in large part because starting pitcher Dan Straily (3-3) allowed just four hits, no walks and three runs in 6 1/3 innings. He struck out six for his first win since May 18.

“It was a good day for me,” said Straily, who was also effective on offense, getting one hit Youth Tracy Walker Jersey , drawing one walk and scoring two runs.

The Marlins had lost his past five starts, before Straily reversed the tide.

On Tuesday, Hernandez will try to keep Miami’s surge moving forward.

The Marlins cranked out 11 hits and nine runs on Monday, and they would love to give Hernandez that type of support on Tuesday.

Arizona, meanwhile, has a dangerous offense of its own. The Diamondbacks usually start quickly — they have scored a first-inning run in six of their past seven games — and they can catch fire from there.

BOSTON — The Philadelphia 76ers and Boston Celtics turn back the clock when they face each other in the Eastern Conference semifinals that begin in Boston Monday night.

Bill Russell. Wilt Chamberlain. Larry Bird. Julius Erving. Kevin McHale. Hal Greer. Bob Cousy. Billy Cunningham.

This is the NBA’s top rivalry in terms of series played. The teams meet for the 20th time in what has always been the Celtics but also been the Syracuse Nationals/Philadelphia Warriors/Sixers.

“They’re playing great. Got a great team, great coach,” Celtics coach Brad Stevens said after his team eliminated the Milwaukee Bucks Saturday night. I think everybody talks about (Joel) Embiid and (Ben) Simmons and rightfully so, but I think it’s … the skill that they’ve added to their team and their other young guys getting better; and, obviously (JJ) Redick’s presence have just opened everything up.

“And they’re a bear to play against; you can tell from the last series. I think (coach) Brett (Brown)’s terrific. On down the line. They’re terrific.”

The Sixers, who have waited through years of tanking to get back to respectability, took care of the Miami Heat in five games of the first round and get the latest shot at their long-time rivals.

Their fans chanted “We want Boston,” during their Game 5 and they have them.

Asked Sunday for keys to defeating the Celtics http://www.cowboysauthorizedshops.com/authentic-connor-williams-jersey , Sixers coach Brett Brown said, “Just how you’re gonna score. … They’re an excellent defensive team. We respect them with what they do defensively and I think they’re clever offensively.

“They’ve got the ability to bother you because the team really can shoot 3s.”

The teams, which first met in the playoffs when the Sixers were the Syracuse Nationals (think Larry Costello), haven’t met in the postseason since 2012 and have played twice since 1985. They have tangled just twice in 1985 and the Celtics have won the last three series. Philly’s last win came in 1982.

The Celtics needed seven games to dispose of Doug Collins’ Sixers in 2012.

If you want to consider thorns in each other’s sides, for Philly it was Boston’s Sam Jones while Bird always considered Andrew Toney poison for the Celtics.

The Celtics, the No. 2 seed in the East, went 3-1 against the Sixers during the regular season, including Boston erasing a 22-point deficit to win the game in London. Philly’s 89-80 victory in the Jan. 18 series finale featured Embiid going off for 26 points, 18 rebounds and six assists.

Markelle Fultz, who was “traded” from the Celtics to the Sixers, who accepted Boston’s first pick in the draft, did not play against the Celtics in the four games but has since returned.

Jaylen Brown, who had two breakout scoring games in the first round Buccaneers Elite Jerseys , tweaked a hamstring in the first half of Saturday’s game. He was pronounced fit to go but Stevens held him out as a precaution. After the game, Brown said, “I’m ready,” adding, when asked if he’ll go in the opener, “That’s my goal.” He was slated for an MRI Sunday and Stevens called him doubtful.

Boston’s Marcus Morris, a Philadelphia native, openly rooted for the Sixers in their first-round series and said Sunday, “If we weren’t playing them I’d be rooting for Philly. But I hope we sweep them.”

The Sixers are the third seed in the conference and are coming off their first series win since 2012.
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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have re-signed backup quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick Cowboys Bo Scarbrough Jersey , who appeared in six games last season.

He is 35 years old and has played 13 seasons in the NFL. He returns on a one-year contract.

Fitzpatrick started three games while filling in for injured Jameis Winston in 2017. He completed 96 of163 passes for 1,103 yards, seven touchdowns and three interceptions.

He also has played for the St. Louis Rams, Cincinnati Bengals, Buffalo Bills, Tennessee Titans, Houston Texans and New York Jets.

Fitzpatrick was drafted by the Rams out of Harvard in 2005 in the seventh round. His 173 passing touchdowns are the most by an Ivy League quarterback.
Offensive coordinator Mike McCoy is building the Arizona Cardinals' offense from scratch and, big surprise, David Johnson is figuring prominently in his plays.

"David's a special back Youth Ronald Jones II Jersey ," McCoy said after the Cardinals practiced in pads in muggy weather outdoors on Tuesday.

"You see how the offensive line worked together the first day in pads (on Monday)," McCoy said. "That was a positive, watching those guys and the way they all work together. We've got a long ways to go still but that's what training camp is for. But we're off to a good start."

McCoy brings plenty of experience to work alongside first-year coach Steve Wilks. McCoy was head coach of the San Diego Chargers as well as two stints as offensive coordinator of the Denver Broncos.

Johnson sat out minicamp in a contract dispute but came back for training camp and, as always, has impressed his coaches.

"I think everybody knows what kind of player he is," McCoy said. "The way he played in the '16 season. He can do it all."

Johnson led the NFL in yards from scrimmage in 2016 but broke his left wrist in last year's opener and missed the remainder of the season. He's fully healthy now.

McCoy said that most running backs are all right out of the backfield, "but he's special."

"He can run every route in the route tree a receiver runs," McCoy said. "Are we going to do that with him? We'll find out come the season, and you just love the way he works all the day."

At quarterback Adidas James Neal Jersey , Sam Bradford is working on chemistry with his receivers, particularly Larry Fitzgerald, who has caught at least one pass from 17 different quarterbacks in his 14-year NFL career.

Bradford and Fitzgerald both were given a veteran's day off from practice on Tuesday.

"He's looked great," McCoy said of Bradford. "He's very intelligent. He goes through the progressions. You can watch thee veterans, different from a young player, when something's not there and it breaks down, there's no hesitation of where to go with the ball. Sam's done a great job of running the show when he's in there."

Quarterback Josh Rosen, meanwhile, is going through a rookie learning curve.

"Josh is like every rookie DJ Moore Jersey Panthers ," McCoy said. "There's the good days, there's the good plays and there's that one or two plays you look at and you say 'OK, I know this is the first time you saw blitz zero with this play or this protection scheme, but didn't we just go over it in the meeting?"

The offense will be designed to take advantage of what the players do best, McCoy said.

And it's clear that he and Wilks want a physical running game.

"That's what training camp's for, really, for the running game," McCoy said. "You try to become a physical football team in training camp."

The Cardinals overhauled the offensive line. D.J. Humphries remains at left tackle, Mike Iupati is still the left guard and A.Q. Shipley is still the center. But the right side is occupied by a couple of free agent signees 鈥?Justin Pugh at right guard and Andre Smith at right tackle.

Now they're strengths are being evaluated.

"Who is the best puller? Who are our best double-team guys? How do our tight ends block certain schemes?" McCoy said "So you find out a lot about your players. That's our job as coaches is to make sure to find out what they do best."

That's especially true of quarterbacks.

If a quarterback doesn't like a play that's on the call sheet Phillip Gaines Jersey Bills , McCoy said, "Give me that red pen, we'll cross off those plays you don't like and we'll be OK if everyone believes in what we're doing."

The biggest competition on offense might be at wide receiver, where a handful of players are vying for the spots behind Fitzgerald.

That won't sort itself out, most likely, until the end of preseason.
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The Jacksonville Jaguars turned to LSU to improve their running game for the second time in as many years.

The Jaguars selected big and speedy receiver DJ Chark from LSU in the second round of the NFL draft Friday night Packers Authentic Jerseys , giving them a proven deep threat and one of the best perimeter run-blockers available.

Jacksonville chose the 6-foot-3 Chark with the 61st overall pick Friday night. General manager Dave Caldwell and top executive Tom Coughlin stayed in the Southeastern Conference for the third round and took Alabama safety Ronnie Harrison at No. 93.

Chark, Harrison and first-round defensive tackle Taven Bryan probably won't even start as rookies. It's the first time since 2006 the Jaguars didn't get a plug-and-play starter in the first three rounds. It's a tribute to the team's roster, which is mostly intact after making the AFC championship game.

"If they come in and play, that's a bonus, too," Caldwell said. "Competition is great. The more depth you can have and be prepared for any situation, the better off we'll be."

Bryan will open his career behind Pro Bowler Malik Jackson. Harrison will be back up starters Barry Church and Tashaun Gipson. Chark will be a rotational player alongside Marqise Lee, Donte Moncrief and Keelan Cole.

The Jaguars expect Chark's speed 鈥?and blocking ability 鈥?to help create more space for bruising runner Leonard Fournette. No team faced more eight- and nine-man boxes than Jacksonville in 2017.

It proved to be a huge problem in the playoffs, especially in the AFC title game. The Jags led New England by 10 points in the fourth quarter and were up 20-17 with a little more than 5 minutes to play, but were unable to do enough offensively to get to the Super Bowl.

"It's a pick not only for our passing game, but also for our running game, too Authentic Brian Allen Jersey ," Caldwell said. "Obviously, when you have a guy with that type of speed, teams have to be cognizant of him making the big plays down the field."

Chark covered the 40-yard dash in 4.34 seconds at the NFL scouting combine, the fastest of any receiver at the event. He also turned heads at the Senior Bowl while catching passes from Richmond's Kyle Lauletta.

"Being able to go over the top and get open, I feel like I am a kid in a candy store right now," Chark said.

Chark was college teammates with Fournette, the fourth overall pick in the 2017 draft. Both wore No. 7 at LSU, which annually gives the number to its top playmaker.

Chark, a Louisiana native, didn't make nearly as many plays for the Tigers as Fournette did, but mostly because he never played alongside a notable quarterback.

He caught 66 passes for 1,351 yards and six touchdowns in three seasons at LSU. He had 40 receptions for 874 yards and three scores as a junior in 2017. He averaged 21.9 yards a reception Browns Game Jerseys , which ranked sixth nationally.

"He's a very good run blocker, which you don't hear much about with wide receivers," Caldwell said. "He's a good fit for what we want to do offensively, and he's got some rare traits."

The Jaguars gave Lee a four-year contract worth $38 million in free agency and signed Moncrief to a one-year, $9.6 million deal. Cole and fourth-rounder Dede Westbrook showed promise as rookies last season.

Caldwell said they considered moving up to as high as No. 50 to draft Chark but were unable to find a trade partner, so they had to wait nervously through a run on receivers.

"I don't know if we struck out of hit a home run because we didn't trade up and we got him," Caldwell joked. "... Nobody likes the Jags. Back when we were 3-13, everybody wanted to make deals with us."

MINNEAPOLIS — When the Minnesota Timberwolves clinched their first playoff berth in 14 years with a win against Denver in the regular-season finale, the home crowd at Target Center erupted in jubilation as the drought ended.

Minnesota went on the road to Houston and lost the first two games of the first-round series. The Timberwolves and their fans hope a return home can get them back in the series.

The Rockets come to Minnesota on Saturday with a 2-0 lead after Wednesday’s dominating 102-82 victory, leaving the Timberwolves wondering how to make their mark and hoping they can get a boost from the home crowd.

“It feels good,” Minnesota forward Andrew Wiggins told the Minneapolis Star Tribune about returning home. “Houston took care of business up there and now we’ve got to do the same up here. I know the fans will be excited, the atmosphere will be crazy and the whole team Customized Atlanta Falcons Jerseys , we’re confident. We’re ready.”

Wiggins believes — maybe hopes — the fans will be as involved as they were during the season finale. The Wolves missed the playoffs for 13 straight seasons before this year. The last home playoff game was in the 2004 Western Conference finals against the Los Angeles Lakers.

“I think it’ll be crazy, kind of like the Denver game,” Wiggins told the Star Tribune. “Fans were just screaming and into the game the whole time. We’re home. The fans will be into it. I’m excited. I know the guys are too.”

Minnesota coach Tom Thibodeau knows a lot is on the line on Saturday.

“You’re trying to erase 14 years of losing,” Thibodeau told the Star Tribune. “It’s not an easy thing to do. This team has fought like crazy all year. We were basically a three-seed when Jimmy (Butler) went down. We finished a game out of the fourth spot. I’m proud of what they’ve done and now our challenge is to win this next game.”

It won’t be easy against Houston.

The Rockets only shot 36.5 percent from the field in Game 2 and James Harden was limited to 12 points in 30:46. Yet, Houston won by 20 after squeaking by with a three-point win in Game 1.

“We haven’t played very well so far,” Rockets coach Mike D’Antoni told the Houston Chronicle. “It’ll be crazy up there. They haven’t been in the playoffs for a long time. It will be a very loud crowd. We have to do our part, play defense and take the crowd out of it. We have to be ready for all they got. Whatever they have left, we’re going to get it full throttle right when we get on the floor to start the game.”

Minnesota actually was the aggressor early in Game 2, leading after the first quarter. But the Wolves shot 38.8 percent from the field. All-Star center Karl-Anthony Towns finished with just five points on 2-of-9 shooting. Butler had 11 points, while Wiggins scored 13.

The Wolves were one of the league’s best teams at home with a 30-11 record, but they lost all four games in the regular season to Houston, including twice at Target Center.

“They have a really good team at home Authentic Robert Golden Jersey ,” Harden told the Chronicle. “Nothing’s changed for us. We’ve been a pretty good road team all year. Go out there, execute, limit our turnovers … and just make it tough, make it tough for every guy on their team. We haven’t shot the ball well yet. Knock down some shots, and we’ll be good.”

Minnesota is looking to possibly change its approach. Point guard Jeff Teague has been outspoken at times this year and said the key on Saturday will be playing up tempo to get the crowd in the game.

“What we’ve been playing like hasn’t worked,” Teague told the Star Tribune. “We lost both games, and we played a slow pace. I think we played right into their hands. Last time we played them here at home (in March), we got out in the second half and picked up the pace and made it a closer game. That’s the only way we can play to be successful against this team.”
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San Francisco 49ers linebacker Reuben Foster was suspended Tuesday without pay for the first two games of the regular season for violating the NFL’s conduct and substance-abuse policy.

The NFL said Foster will also be fined for violations from a weapons offense and misdemeanor drug charge that were resolved earlier this offseason.

Foster will miss San Francisco’s games against Minnesota and Detroit before being allowed to return on Sept. 17 before the Niners play Kansas City.

”I accept the League’s decision and am sorry that my mistakes have hurt my team Brian O'Neill Vikings Jersey ,” Foster said in a statement. ”I have a responsibility to the 49ers, our fans and our community, and I am committed to learning from this situation and making better choices in the future. The support I have received over the last five months has been humbling, and I do not take it for granted.”

Foster was charged in January in Alabama with second-degree marijuana possession. That charge was eventually dismissed after he completed a first-time offender diversion course.

Foster then faced more serious charges for an incident in California in February. He was initially charged in April with felonies for domestic violence, making criminal threats and weapons possession after being accused of beating up his ex-girlfriend.

A judge ruled there was no probable cause on the first two charges after the ex-girlfriend recanted the allegations and the judge found no other evidence to support the charges. The weapons charge was reduced to a misdemeanor and Foster pleaded no-contest to that in June.

He was sentenced to two years’ probation, 232 hours of community service, and $235 in fines. He will not be allowed to own guns while he’s on probation.

The 49ers initially told Foster to stay away from the offseason program after the felony charges were filed in the domestic violence case before welcoming him back after that was resolved in May.

”Our organization understands and supports the League’s decision,” general manager John Lynch said. ”Although we are disappointed that Reuben will not be with our team for the first two games of the season, we will continue to work with him on making better decisions and eliminating unnecessary distractions. We are encouraged to see Reuben take responsibility for his mistakes http://www.seahawksauthorizedshops.com/authentic-sebastian-janikowski-jersey , and hopeful that he has learned from them as well.”

The 49ers drafted Foster 31st overall last year after questions about his health and character caused him to drop from being a possible top 10 pick.

Foster delivered on the field, ranking second on the team with 72 tackles in 10 games as a rookie and looking like a key part of San Francisco’s defensive future.

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Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay took his team across the country in an effort to escape the typically mundane NFL training camp practice that's all too commonplace in August.

He got exactly what he wanted Monday during a two-hour joint session with the Baltimore Ravens.

"It was a good first day," McVay said. "Guys practiced smart, we were able to get a lot out of it."

It was hot. It was humid. There was hard hitting.

And not a single scuffle.

"That was definitely the message," McVay said. "We don't need any of that, especially because some of the things that can happen injury-wise. We always talk about what the intent of practice is out here, and it's to get better and go against another really good football team."

The Rams and Ravens got all the benefits of competition, with less risk of injury because tackling was not allowed.

"I felt like the two teams cooperated very well," Ravens coach John Harbaugh said. "Quite a bit of physicality and just a good Will Dissly Color Rush Jersey , strong football practice."

The teams will do it again Tuesday, then take a break on Wednesday before getting together for a preseason game on Thursday night.

A joint practice provides a welcome relief for players who are tired of banging helmets or throwing passes against their teammates during the dog days of summer.

"It's tough really, what to make of it, but I think it is a good test," Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco said. "You get used to going up against your defense, seeing what they do every day, so it's good to see something else."

McVay knew he was in for something different when he got his first glimpse of the Ravens recently expanded training facility.

"I love it. It's really impressive," he said. "You feel like you're pulling up to a country club."

Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti poured plenty of money into the complex, and he was on hand Monday to watch the practice. So was Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan Cheap Weston Richburg Jersey , who wore shorts but made the mistake of pairing that with a black shirt under a sizzling sun in 90 degree temperatures.

"It's definitely sticky," McVay said. "You feel the difference coming out here. We get spoiled in that California weather where there's no humidity, but I think it's great work for us. The fields are in great condition; today was a good day for us all."

After both teams dressed, the Rams and Ravens warmed up on adjacent fields before pairing off 鈥?Rams offense vs. Ravens defense, Baltimore offense vs. Los Angeles defense.

Special teams got some work, too.

It was so comprehensive, that McVay may change the way he uses his personnel on Thursday night.

Asked if quarterback Jared Goff would see action, the coach replied, "There's a good chance a handful of guys Jason Witten Jersey Womens , if we feel like we get the work that we want, will sit out on Thursday. That's a big part of being able to get good work in here and kind of limit the risk of injuries."

Defensive end Aaron Donald remained a no-show at camp, and McVay said there was no progress on the holdout.

"I don't think anything is going to change with that in the near future," McVay said. "I've had a little bit of dialogue with Aaron, and we're hopeful to get something done. But things remain the same."

Ravens guard Marshal Yanda, however, practiced for the first time since last September, going through individual drills over the first section of practice. He missed the last 14 games of the 2017 season with a fractured ankle and sat out the early part of training camp following shoulder surgery.
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James Harden scored 30 points Browns Baker Mayfield Jersey , Chris Paul had 27 and the Houston Rockets sustained the latest second-half flurry by Stephen Curry, evening the Western Conference finals at two games apiece with a 95-92 victory Tuesday night.

Curry scored 28 points and Kevin Durant added 27 points and 12 rebounds but the defending champions missed their final six shots from the floor and their NBA-record postseason winning streak at home ended at 16 games.

Paul rebounded Klay Thompson’s miss just before the final buzzer sounded for the first time and pounded the ball down in delight. A replay review ensued and it was determined Shaun Livingston fouled Paul before the game ended, so Paul made a free throw with 0.5 seconds left.

Curry couldn’t get off a final attempt before the buzzer.

Game 5 is Thursday night at Houston. Golden State will play its longest playoff round after closing out its first two playoff rounds in five games.

HOCKEY

NEW YORK (AP) – Longtime NHL executive Lou Lamoriello has joined the New York Islanders and will have full authority in all hockey matters.

The team on Tuesday announced the hiring of the 75-year-old Lamoriello as president of hockey operations. He comes to a team that has missed the playoffs eight of the last 12 seasons.

Lamoriello led the New Jersey Devils to three Stanley Cup titles during his 18 years as general manager. He spent the past three seasons as general manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Islanders managing partner Scott Malkin says in a statement the team is ”committed to giving Lou every resource and the full support of the entire organization.” Lamoriello says he is ”excited to join such a storied franchise.”

It was not immediately clear how the move will affect current president and general manager Garth Snow. He has four years left on his contract.

NFL

ATLANTA (AP) – The NFL approved a new owner for the Carolina Panthers, passed a rule to eject players who hit with their helmets, and took steps to spice up the kickoff.

Still to be resolved: a much more contentious issue.

What to do Authentic Jake Guentzel Jersey , if anything, about players who kneel during the national anthem?

At their annual spring meeting on Thursday, league owners welcomed David Tepper to their ranks by signing off on his record $2.2 billion deal to purchase the Panthers from disgraced team founder Jerry Richardson.

During a brief news conference in which he took only a handful of questions, Tepper immediately made a bit of news by seeming to imply he would be willing to listen to offers for a new stadium from other cities in North and South Carolina. The team has made no secret of its desire to replace 22-year-old Bank of America Stadium, and its lease runs only through the upcoming season.

BASEBALL

NEW YORK (AP) – The Mets have signed free agent Jose Bautista Billy Price Bengals Jersey , getting the former home run champion two days after he was cut by the Atlanta Braves.

They made the move before playing Miami on Tuesday night. The team said he was available for the game, but he was not in the starting lineup they posted.

New York listed Bautista as an outfielder. He played only third base in his short stint with Atlanta, starting at the spot eight times. He hit .143 (5 for 35) with two home runs and five RBIs, and fared well against left-handed pitchers.

The 37-year-old Bautista signed for the $545,000 major league minimum. He hit .203 with 23 homers and 65 RBIs in 157 games last season with Toronto Kerryon Johnson Jersey , and went unsigned as a free agent during the winter.

Bautista is a six-time All-Star, and led the AL with 54 homers in 2010 and 43 in 2011. He has hit at least 20 home runs in each of the past eight seasons.

The Mets optioned infielder-outfielder Phillip Evans to Triple-A Las Vegas.

Former Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Johnny Manziel will make his debut in the developmental Spring League on April 7.

The Spring League will play in Austin, Texas, from March 28 to April 15. The league is designed for players hoping to impress NFL scouts.

Manziel also threw at a Texas A&M pro day Tuesday.

Manziel won the Heisman as a freshman with Texas A&M in 2012 and left school after his sophomore season for the NFL. He was drafted in the first round by the Cleveland Browns but was cut in 2016 and hasn't played since.

Manziel played nine games with the Browns in two seasons, passing for 1 Darius Leonard Youth Jersey ,675 yards with seven touchdowns and seven interceptions.

His Spring League debut will be broadcast on Turner Sports new streaming service "Bleacher Report Live," which will launch in April.

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The Tennessee Titans have agreed to terms on deals with quarterback Blaine Gabbert and offensive lineman Xavier Su'a-Filo.

Both deals were announced Tuesday.

The 28-year-old Gabbert is expected to replace Matt Cassel as Marcus Mariota's backup. The Titans announced March 9 they intend to release Cassel .

Gabbert Nyheim Hines Jersey Colts , the No. 10 overall pick in the 2011 draft, started 27 games with the Jacksonville Jaguars from 2011-13. He played the next three seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, making eight starts in 2015 and five in 2016.

Gabbert spent 2017 with the Arizona Cardinals and started five games, including a 12-7 victory over the Titans . He went 95 of 171 for 1,086 yards with six touchdowns and six interceptions.

He has completed 55.9 percent of his passes for 1,397 yards with 44 touchdowns and 43 interceptions during his career.

Su'a-Filo, an offensive guard Royce Freeman Jersey Elite , started 41 games for the Houston Texans over the last four seasons. The former second-round draft pick made 16 starts last season and 15 in 2016.

The Titans' addition of Su'a-Filo continues their efforts to boost their offensive line.

The Titans announced Thursday they had agreed to terms offensive lineman Kevin Pamphile , who had started 33 games over the last four years with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Titans also agreed this month on a new deal to keep right guard Josh Kline .
In a game that didn’t feel much like the postseason, the Washington Capitals gave future playoff opponents fair warning about how they handle tight games.

Outshot by a team eliminated from contention, Washington stayed close before tying it late and beating the New York Rangers 3-2 in overtime on Wednesday night. Braden Holtby stopped 35 of 37 shots, Lars Eller forced overtime and Evgeny Kuznetsov won it to push the Metropolitan Division-leading Capitals closer to their fourth consecutive playoff appearance.

Even if it wasn’t the kind of showing the Capitals would like to have come playoff time, Eller’s goal with 1:50 left and Kuznetsov’s 38 seconds into overtime showed what they could do when it matters.

”I think we play better when it’s close,” Holtby said. ”With our skill Authentic Joaquin Benoit Jersey , I think it forces us to turn things on late in the game and I think guys take that as a challenge. That’s I think a reason why you can see us bring it to a next level to try and force the other team into feeling a bit of panic and open up space.”

There was little panic in the Rangers, who were playing their first game with no playoff implications since 2004, and they turned that looseness into a 37-33 shot advantage. Henrik Lundqvist made 30 saves and Kevin Hayes and Ryan Spooner scored, but New York lamented a defensive miscue on Eller’s goal that let the game slip away.

”So frustrating,” Lundqvist said after his first game with no hope of playoffs in his NHL career. ”When you’re tied up that late after playing so hard and doing so many good things, it doesn’t matter where you are in the standings, you want to win games and sit in here and feel good about a win. They came back and got it. It bothers me.”

After the Capitals came back and got two valuable points Nick Chubb Jersey , they can clinch with help around the league or by picking up a point Friday at home against Carolina. There are lower expectations on Washington this year after back-to-back Presidents’ Trophies and second-round exits, but Holtby said making the playoffs was a goal at the start of the season.

It’s within reach now.

”It’s the first step on the way,” Eller said. ”We want to win our division and go into the playoffs on a high note.”

Holtby looks like he could be heading into the playoffs on a high note after almost two months of struggles and a minor lower-body injury. He would have liked to stop Spooner’s third-period goal on a shot that beat him clean, but with a question of whether Holtby or Philipp Grubauer will start, it helped that the 2016 Vezina Trophy winner finally looks like his normal self again.

”I felt comfortable,” Holtby said. ”It’s something I’m not used to – not playing much. The stamina and such was a little different than I was used to, but it felt good to go out there and just get to work and play in a high-intensity game.”

There are many more high-intensity games to come for the Capitals Rashaad Penny Jersey Elite , who can soon exhale about making the playoffs and prepare for the next step.

”The NHL how it is, it doesn’t really matter where you are in the standings,” Holtby said. ”The guys should be proud. We should be proud we’re in a position like that.”

NOTES: Rangers assistant Lindy Ruff missed the game after hitting his head on the ice at practice Thursday. Coach Alain Vigneault said Ruff was hospitalized and diagnosed with a concussion but was in good spirits and expected to be back with the team in a few days. … F Shane Gersich, a 2014 fifth-round pick who signed with Washington last week after his season at North Dakota ended, made his NHL debut. … Pheonix Copley backed up Holtby because Grubauer felt a ”tweak” in the Capitals’ game at the Rangers on Tuesday, according to coach Barry Trotz.

UP NEXT

Rangers: Return home to face the playoff-bound Tampa Bay Lightning on Friday night.

Capitals: Host the Carolina Hurricanes on Friday night.

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The New York Jets shook up the NFL draft on Saturday by soaring three spots to No. 3 overall in a stunning swap with the Indianapolis Colts.

The Jets acquired the third pick in a strong sign that they intend to get one of the top quarterbacks available. They sent the Colts their first-rounder 鈥?No. 6 overall 鈥?along with two second-rounders this year and a second-rounder next year to complete the massive deal.

Colts general manager Chris Ballard said the teams had been discussing a potential trade since early in the week.

"They had an interest to move up to (No.) 3 and kind of went back and forth for the last four or five days http://www.falconsauthorizedshops.com/authentic-justin-bethel-jersey ," Ballard said in a video posted on the Colts' website. "Talked to a couple other teams, but we still wanted to stay in position in that top 10 where we could still get a premium player. We feel like at (No.) 6, we'll still be able to get a premium player."

After losing out to Minnesota in the Kirk Cousins sweepstakes at the start of free agency, New York re-signed veteran Josh McCown and agreed to terms with Teddy Bridgewater, both on one-year deals. But it was believed the Jets would still focus on finding a quarterback of the future with their first-round pick in next month's draft.

By moving up to No. 3, New York assures itself of getting one of the top-rated quarterbacks available. USC's Sam Darnold, UCLA's Josh Rosen, Wyoming's Josh Allen and Oklahoma's Baker Mayfield are all considered potential top-five selections.

Moving on up. pic.fm2BSLylso

鈥?New York Jets (@nyjets) March 17, 2018

General manager Mike Maccagnan has been zeroing in on the QBs up close, attending the pro days of both Mayfield and Rosen. He also plans to attend the pro days for Darnold and Allen.

The Jets have been very active during the first few days of the NFL's free agency period , which officially began Wednesday. In addition to the moves with McCown and Bridgewater, New York signed cornerback Trumaine Johnson , running back Isaiah Crowell, kicker Cairo Santos and linebacker Avery Williamson , and agreed to terms with center Spencer Long. The Jets also re-signed cornerback Morris Claiborne, defensive lineman Mike Pennel Authentic Justin Bethel Jersey , offensive tackle Ben Ijalana and safety Terrence Brooks.

The flurry of activity comes as the Jets look to improve on two straight 5-11 seasons and try to end a seven-year playoff drought. Getting a quarterback to build around was a priority entering this offseason 鈥?familiar territory for a franchise that mostly has struggled to find sustained success under center since the days of Joe Namath. The Jets have had 30 starting quarterbacks since Broadway Joe's last game for them in 1976. The last time New York took a quarterback with a high first-round pick was 2009, when it drafted Mark Sanchez. After helping lead the Jets to the AFC championship game his first two seasons, Sanchez mostly struggled, and the likes of Greg McElroy, Geno Smith, Michael Vick, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Bryce Petty and McCown have all started games in the years since.

With this deal, New York has a chance to find its new face of the franchise. But Maccagnan & Co. know there will be big-time pressure on them to make the correct choice at No. 3. The last time the Jets had the third pick was 1981, when they took UCLA running back Freeman McNeil, who made three Pro Bowls during his 12-year NFL career and was inducted into the team's Ring of Honor.

For the Colts, they now have nine picks overall and appear to be in a rebuilding phase after going 4-12 and missing the playoffs for the third straight year. Getting extra picks from the Jets will surely help, giving Indianapolis four selections in the top 50 in this year's draft.

Pleasure doing business with you, @nyjets! pic.oAgpEudDWj

鈥?Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) March 17, 2018

Questions still surround the status of quarterback Andrew Luck's surgically repaired right shoulder, leading rusher Frank Gore is a free agent and Indianapolis still needs to fix a leaky offensive line. The Colts also need improvements on defense after finishing 30th overall and 31st in sacks.

The Colts had done very little in free agency 鈥?until Saturday. They signed backup defensive end Denico Autry from Oakland to a three-year deal and already have lost two other key players: receiver Donte Moncrief Brandon Parker Color Rush Jersey , an occasional starter, and emerging cornerback Rashaan Melvin.

It is widely believed that the Colts were very interested in N.C. State defensive end Bradley Chubb with the No. 3 pick. Indianapolis still might be able to land the promising pass rusher at No. 6, especially if three or more quarterbacks are taken in the first five spots. That is, if the Colts don't do some more wheeling and dealing before the April 26-28 draft with their plethora of picks.

"We'll still be open if an opportunity 鈥?the right opportunity 鈥?presents itself at six to move down," Ballard said. "But right now, we feel pretty good. It would have to be a pretty attractive offer for us to move away from six because of the player we think we're going to get."

AP Sports Writer Michael Marot in Indianapolis contributed to this report.

Masai Ujiri believes Dwane Casey deserves to be recognized as the best coach in the NBA, but the Toronto president doesn’t think Casey should be leading the Raptors.

So the Raptors fired Casey, praising him on his way out the door.

Hours after the Raptors announced they were parting ways with Casey on Friday – days after the team was swept in the playoffs by the Cleveland Cavaliers for the second straight season – Ujiri said he doesn’t think he will ever work with a better person.

”Nothing in particular that coach Casey did wrong, but I think it was time for this to happen,” he said.

Casey led the Raptors to a franchise-record 59 wins this season as Toronto earned the top seed in the Eastern Conference for the first time. He posted a 320-238 record in seven seasons and is the franchise’s winningest coach.

”I hope coach Casey gets coach of the year, because he deserves it,” Ujiri said. ”I saw everything he did here. I saw the job he did this year. He deserves it.”

But that wasn’t enough for Casey to keep his job.

James and Cavaliers coach Tyronn Lue said it was disappointing to hear that Casey had been fired, especially after the year the Raptors had.

”Probably within the last five years, I bet they’ve improved in winning percentage every single year,” James said. ”But I guess their front office wants playoff success. That’s what it boils down to.”

On Tuesday, Casey was named coach of the year by the National Basketball Coaches Association Josh Jackson Packers Jersey , an award voted on by NBA head coaches. A media panel voted separately for the NBA’s coach of the year award, which will be announced June 25.

Under Casey, the Raptors won four Atlantic Division titles and advanced to the playoffs in five consecutive seasons. But Toronto couldn’t get past Cleveland, losing to LeBron James and the Cavs in each of the past three playoffs.

Ujiri said he spent ”countless hours” evaluating the team in the days following this year’s defeat before deciding to fire Casey. It was the first time he’d had to fire a coach in more than a decade as an NBA executive.

”It’s the hardest thing I’ve done in my life,” Ujiri said. ”In terms of collaboration, I don’t think I’ll work with a better person. Maybe my dad. This guy is phenomenal. A listener, a learner, a performer and a real person.”

Ujiri had little to say about who his next head coach might be, but said he would be ”open” to considering a wide range of potential candidates.

”We’ll start that process right after I finish here,” Ujiri said. ”We’ll look everywhere. I’m not ruling out anything. We’ll do a thorough job.”

Ujiri denied reports that Casey had precipitated his firing by seeking a contract extension. Casey had one year remaining on a three-year, $18 million dollar extension he received in June, 2016.

Toronto’s assistant coaches remain in their roles, Ujiri said.

”All of them are with us for now,” Ujiri said. ”Obviously some of them will get interviews. We’re going to go through that.”

After Toronto’s playoff exit last spring, Ujiri demanded a ”culture reset,” leading a greater emphasis on ball movement Cheap Jihad Ward Jersey , depth, and 3-point shooting. On Friday, Ujiri said he wants his new coach to continue that style moving forward.

”I hope we can because you try to get those kind of players to fit that mode,” Ujiri said. ”Hopefully there’s a smooth transition but a new coach is going to have his style, he’s going to have his voice.”

Earlier this week, as they cleaned out their lockers, All-Star guards Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan spoke positively about Casey.

DeRozan credited Casey with all of his success while Lowry called Casey ”one of the best coaches out there.”

Still, Lowry was dejected by the team’s playoff performance, calling it a ”wasted year” after a third straight elimination at the hands of James and the Cavs.

”We felt like we could possibly make the NBA Finals,” Lowry said. ”That was our goal.”

On Wednesday, Casey insisted ”the gap is closing” between the Raptors and Cavaliers.

”A lot of folks have run up against Cleveland in the last few years and had the same challenge and it went down the same way,” he said. ”That’s the mountain this organization has to climb.”

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AP Sports Writer Tom Withers in Cleveland contributed to this report.

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The New York Giants have started fixing their woeful offensive line.

A person familiar with the negotiations says the team has an agreement with offensive tackle Nate Solder. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the Giants did not announced the deal with the former New England Patriots left tackle when free agency kicked off Wednesday.

NFL Network reported the Giants will give Solder a four-year Authentic Clayton Keller Jersey , $62 million deal.

The 29-year-old Solder was considered the top offensive lineman available in free agency. He will be the NFL’s highest-paid offensive lineman.

His signing is a major accomplishment for new general manager Dave Gettleman, who has taken over a team that went 3-13 last season. The O-line was one of the team’s biggest weaknesses. Former general manager Jerry Reese’s failure to address the problem in free agency last year led to his firing in December.

Solder will probably take over at left tackle and 2015 first-round draft pick Ereck Flowers will be moved to the right side.

The Giants announced late Wednesday afternoon the signing of former Carolina Panthers cornerback Teddy Williams, who did not play in 2017 after being waived/injured with a shoulder problem.

The 17th player taken in the 2011 draft, Solder has started 95 career games, and he has been relatively injury free in his career.

The Giants still have work to do on the line. The team was 26th in the league in rushing (96.8 yards), 28th in first downs (271), 30th on third downs (32.6 percent), 29th in time of possession (28:27), and 31st in points (246).

Part of the problem was injuries. Center Weston Richburg only played four games because of a concussion and the versatile Justin Pugh was in eight at left guard and right tackle because of back problems.

New York used 10 starting line combinations and only had two games in which a runner gained at least 100 yards Cheap James Washington Jersey , both by Orleans Darkwa.

Richburg is expected to sign with San Francisco. Pugh is a free agent. Veteran guard John Jerry, who started all 16 games last season, is under contract. Brett Jones, a restricted free agent who received a second-round qualifying offer, started the final 12 games at center. Jon Halapio, who started the final six games at right guard, re-signed with the Giants recently.

Williams is the second former Panther Gettleman brought aboard in two days. The former Carolina GM got running back Jonathan Stewart on Tuesday.

Since entering the NFL as a rookie free agent in 2012, Williams has played 36 games for Indianapolis, Arizona Youth Roquan Smith Jersey , Chicago, Jacksonville and Carolina.

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CINCINNATI BENGALS (7-9)

OPEN CAMP: July 26, Paul Brown Stadium

LAST YEAR: Missed playoffs for second straight season. Coach Marvin Lewis got two-year contract extension despite 0-7 playoff mark, worst in NFL history. He’s entering 16th season with Bengals, who have yet to win playoff game since 1990 season, longest active postseason drought in NFL and sixth longest in league history. Bill Lazor was promoted to interim offensive coordinator two games into season and retains role, given freedom to overhaul unit that finished last in yards. Teryl Austin was hired as defensive coordinator, replacing Paul Guenther, who joined Jon Gruden with Raiders.

IMPORTANT ADDITIONS: Lazor Hayden Hurst Jersey , LT Cordy Glenn, C Billy Price, QB Matt Barkley, LB Preston Brown.

IMPORTANT LOSSES: LB Vontaze Burfict (suspended for first four games for violating NFL’s policy on performance enhancers), QB AJ McCarron, C Russell Bodine, CB Adam ”Pacman” Jones, RB Jeremy Hill.

CAMP NEEDS: Getting adjusted to Lazor’s overhauled offense and getting new pieces in place on line are overriding concerns. Austin is expected to stay with similar defense, but there will be competition for spots in line rotation. Once again http://www.newyorkgiantsteamonline.com/landon-collins-jersey , Bengals will spend preseason planning for Burfict’s absence – third straight season he’s been suspended by league. Bengals took gamble and signed TE Tyler Eifert to one-year deal loaded with incentives, hoping he can add to group that was subpar last season, but he was hurt again for training camp.

EXPECTATIONS: Two straight losing seasons led to significant drop in attendance at Paul Brown Stadium and reduced expectations for a team in decline. Bengals will have slightly different look with new coordinators, but overall direction won’t change much. If offensive line isn’t significantly better, redesigned playbook won’t much matter. By keeping Lewis for 16th season despite lack of playoff win, owner Mike Brown gave fans little reason to think things will be different. Brown would rather stay with coach and coaching philosophy that are familiar.

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Bobby Wagner reacted as though he was hoping the question would come.

With all the changes on the Seattle Seahawks defense – the leaders http://www.raidersauthorizedshops.com/authentic-p.j.-hall-jersey , the voices, the veterans no longer around – will there be a new focus on a group of linebackers that at times has seemed underappreciated?

”It has always been about the guy in the middle,” Wagner said emphatically. ”So for me, it’s not no different because that’s how I look at it, but from the outside maybe it is different because those guys are gone and you guys are looking for someone who is going to be that leader. Y’all ain’t got to look. You’re looking at the guy right here. I will be that guy and we’re going to be fine.”

And with that, any question about who the leading voice is on Seattle’s defense was quickly answered.

For most of the past half-decade, Seattle’s highly regarded defense was defined by the secondary with the catchy nickname and the flashy personalities. From there, attention often shifted to the defensive line and the type of chaos Michael Bennett and others created on – and sometimes off – the field.

Then there was Wagner and fellow linebacker K.J. Wright. They have been regarded as two of the best in the league at their positions and sometimes have received that level of recognition. But they were often relegated to a secondary role on their own team in terms of recognition even with Wagner being voted first-team All-Pro three times and Wright being a Pro Bowl selection.

”The attention has gone elsewhere, I guess,” Wright said. ”Nothing will change. We’ll still be the bad-ass linebackers on this team. We’ll still lead the way. Stuff will still be run in order. We’ll still make plays and it’ll be fun out there.”

Seattle’s offseason defensive overhaul saw Bennett Shaquem Griffin Jersey Elite , Richard Sherman and Sheldon Richardson find new homes; Cliff Avril and Kam Chancellor step away from the game due to neck injuries, and Earl Thomas hold out in search of a new contract. There are changes everywhere across Seattle’s defensive alignment, with the exception of the linebackers.

Wagner has been calling Seattle’s defense from the moment he arrived in the NFL and became a starter as a rookie. His partner the entire time has been Wright. With the departures, those voices they’ve used together for the past six seasons will be even louder.

”Yeah, they had the name, they got a lot of the attention and now the attention may shift to the linebackers,” Wagner said. ”But we pride ourselves on being the guys that lead this team and that has been my mindset since I stepped in. I had coach Norton teach me the way.”

Ken Norton Jr. has returned to Seattle to be the defensive coordinator. He was a mentor for Wagner and Wright as the linebackers coach when both arrived in the NFL. Now he’s returned with an even bigger imprint on what Seattle does defensively.

”He’s the linebackers guy and he put that responsibility more on us. He calls on me in the meeting room to answer most of the questions, calls on Bobby to answer the questions because he knows that we’re all on the same page,” Wright said. ”He knows that we’re the guys that can share our leadership abilities, share our knowledge of the game. He’s putting that on us.”

There may also be some schematic tweaks that give Wagner and Wright more freedom defensively. Wright said he believes the adjustments will make Seattle more fundamentally sound defensively and the linebackers could be the benefactors.

”I think this defense is hungry Authentic Durham Smythe Jersey ,” Wright said. ”We have a lot to prove. Myself, the secondary with all the guys leaving, the (defensive) line with the guys leaving. It’s going to be fun because you’ve got guys who want to come and show who they are.”

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To get back to the playoffs, the Green Bay Packers' defense needs to improve against the pass.

Adding three tall receivers to the offense for quarterback Aaron Rodgers can't hurt either.

The two-time NFL MVP got help in the passing game on the third day of the NFL draft after the Packers prioritized pass defense in the early rounds.

They took Louisville's Jaire Alexander in the first round and Iowa's Josh Jackson, who led the nation with eight interceptions last year, in the second.

"Their ball skills are exceptional," coach Mike McCarthy said Saturday. "I think they're a great fit to how we want to play defense."

Pass defense was a problem again for a team that finished 7-9 last season. The Packers didn't make the playoffs for the first time since 2008.

The setback set up an offseason of change. Longtime executive Brian Gutekunst was promoted to general manager to succeed the retired Ted Thompson in January. McCarthy overhauled the coaching staff, including the hiring of Mike Pettine to replace Dom Capers as defensive coordinator.

Cornerback was the top priority. Besides drafting Alexander and Jackson, the Packers brought Tramon Williams back as a free agent to add another presence in the secondary.

"With the competition in the cornerback room, and the defensive back room Cheap Byron Maxwell Jersey , it's vastly improved," McCarthy said.

The focus shifted to offense for the late rounds on Saturday. The passing attack slipped to 25th in the league last season after Rodgers was limited to seven games because of a broken collarbone.

Gutekunst drafted three wideouts, starting with Missouri's J'Mon Moore in the fourth round. The 6-foot-3 senior had team highs of 65 catches and 1,082 yards last season.

Opportunities abound in the receiving group behind Davante Adams and Randall Cobb after veteran Jordy Nelson was cut in the offseason.

Other highlights from the Packers' draft class:

CATCHING ON: Besides Moore, the Packers also took two 6-5 receivers in South Florida's Marquez Valdes-Scantling in the fifth round and Notre Dame's Equanimeous St. Brown in the sixth round. Valdes-Scantling offers an intriguing blend of size and speed after he ran the 40-yard dash at the NFL combine at 4.37 seconds. Brown played with Packers backup quarterback DeShone Kizer for two seasons at Notre Dame.

CREATING COMPETION: By taking three receivers, the Packers stockpiled prospects to fill depth at a skill position for a second straight year. The strategy worked at running back in 2017, when fourth-round pick Jamaal Williams and fifth-rounder Aaron Jones emerged as solid contributors.

"You hope the guys embrace it and are pros about it and try to get better," scout Matt Malaspina said. "The whole group gets better as each guy gets better."

THAT'S SPECIAL: There might be competition at punter, too, after the Packers drafted JK Scott from Alabama. Scott had just five punts returned as a senior Youth Justin Reid Jersey , crediting the success to a renewed focus on hang time. Last year's punter, Justin Vogel, was seventh in the NFL in net punting average at 41.6 yards.

Green Bay also took a long snapper with the second of their three seventh-round picks in Mississippi State's Hunter Bradley.

LATE PICKS: The selection of offensive lineman Cole Madison from Washington State in the fifth round addressed another position of need. The 6-5 Madison played tackle in college. But the Packers like his versatility and plan to use him at guard. Green Bay has questions on the right side of the line.

Green Bay returned to defense with its two other seventh-round picks, selecting end James Looney from California and edge rusher Kendall Donnerson from Southeast Missouri State.

STILL NEED: Unless Looney or Donnerson prove to be late steals, the Packers will still need help in the pass rush. Clay Matthews turns 32 this year, while Nick Perry was limited to 12 games last season because of injuries. They could use more production out of third-year backup Kyler Fackrell. Vince Biegel should start the season healthy after missing the first seven games of his rookie season with a foot injury.

"The biggest gains that we've always made have been our returning players," McCarthy said.
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Los Angeles Chargers defensive end Joey Bosa set an NFL record with 19 sacks in his first 20 career games.

He recorded at least 10 1/2 sacks in each of his first two seasons Edwin Diaz Seattle Mariners Jersey , but Bosa and the Chargers insist the best is yet to come.

”I think there’s so much I have to work on that I have an idea in my head of what I want things to look like and how I want to be as a player, and I’m not anywhere near those things, but I know I’m making the right steps in that direction,” Bosa said Sunday.

Cornerback Casey Hayward has never been shy in sharing his belief that Bosa could become the best defender in football. It was only reinforced last season as Bosa’s pass rush skills helped contribute to Hayward intercepting four passes.

”Made my life a lot easier,” Hayward said. ”A couple of my picks last year came off Joey hitting the guy, wobbly ball, I take all of them.”

Entering his third season, the next step in Bosa’s development could come from a better understanding of coordinator Gus Bradley’s 4-3 defense. The Chargers were productive in 2017 while transitioning to Bradley’s system, finishing third in points per game allowed, tied for fifth in sacks, and sixth in takeaways. Those rankings could improve as the coaches, players and front office are more comfortable with what will allow the defense to succeed in this iteration.

The Chargers added depth in the draft Cassius Marsh Jersey 49ers , with Bosa praising defensive lineman Justin Jones and linebacker Uchenna Nwosu for their ability to get to the quarterback. The progression of second-year defensive end Isaac Rochell could result in Bosa staying fresh by allowing Bradley to rotate more. The 280-pound Bosa could play inside if Rochell is capable of creating pressure off the edge consistently, allowing Bradley to use his most disruptive players together in obvious passing situations.

Bosa, who had 12 1/2 sacks last season as the bookend to Melvin Ingram, could cause more havoc if opponents cannot focus all their attention on stopping the two standout defensive ends.

”Joey can improve,” coach Anthony Lynn said. ”I don’t think he has reached his peak yet at all, and the better we get on that defensive line and create more one-on-one matchups, that’s going to help his success as well.”

But Bosa will never put a target on his individual production going into his season after recognizing that chasing personal goals often comes at the expense of both the individual and the team.

”If you want to get 15 sacks and you’re out there doing your own things to get sacks, more than likely you’re going to hurt the team and not get a sack rather than you just doing your job and you falling into one,” Bosa said. ”I’ve come to realize when I’m really out there trying to make a play like that, I do something wrong and they’ll break a run or whatever. But if I I stay within myself and the defense, it usually works out pretty well.”

Bosa’s zen mentality carries over to his offseason workouts. He stresses developing his overall athleticism rather than addressing any particular football technique. That regiment makes the first week of training camp something of a transition period, with Bosa joking he is focused on ”lining up right.”

Still Baker Mayfield Jersey , Hayward sees how Bosa approaches the game spilling over to the rest of the team. If Bosa can improve on his momentous initial returns, that bodes well for the Chargers as a whole.

”That’s definitely contagious. You see that, you want to work just as hard as he does,” Hayward said.

NOTES: Rookie tight end Austin Roberts tore his ACL on Saturday, Lynn said. . The Chargers will practice in full pads for the first time Monday.

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Well, it turns out that maybe Panthers four-time All-Pro middle linebacker Luke Kuechly may have a minor flaw in his game.

Who knew?

The 27-year-old Kuechly, considered one of the best players in the league at his position, said after Sunday's practice his pass rushing ability needs to improve "by leaps and bounds."

And Panthers coach Ron Rivera was quick to agree.

"Yes, he does" need to improve, Rivera said. "Like Cam (Newton) likes to tell you, 'Superman has his Kryptonite.'"

Kuechly has been akin to Superman for the Panthers defense over the past six seasons.

He has 818 tackles and 15 interceptions during that span, and has staked his claim as the most productive middle linebacker ever to play for the Panthers 鈥攚ith a realistic chance to go down as one of the NFL's all-time bests along with Ray Lewis Braden Smith Color Rush Jersey , Jack Lambert, Dick Butkus and Mike Singletary.

Rivera has repeatedly said Kuechly is like having a coach on the field with his ability to call out an opponent's play call to teammates before the ball is ever snapped. He's seemingly always around the ball and his mistakes are few and far between.

Getting to the quarterback has rarely been one of Kuechly's strengths.

He has 10陆 career sacks, including just one last season. By comparison, Seattle middle linebacker Bobby Wagner 鈥?whom Kuechly is often compared to in the NFC 鈥?has 15陆 sacks during that same span.

Kuechly is working with new linebackers coach Steve Russ to improve his explosiveness and ability to penetrate the line of scrimmage, a skillset that could potentially elevate the 2013 NFL Defensive Player of the Year to a whole new level.

"Coach Russ has a planned attack for (improving) that and hopefully it will translate into a game," Kuechly said.

Kuechly joked that he has to get better at pressuring the quarterback because his longtime buddy Thomas Davis, the team's outside linebacker, "beats me in that (category) every year 鈥?and I have to try to get him back."

This may be Kuechly's year to get the best of Davis, who will start the season serving a four-game suspension for testing positive for a banned substance.

It's not anything new for Kuechly to target an area to improve. For the past couple of years Kuechly spent extra energy working on his pass coverage skills, an area in which he has shown noticeable improvement.

Of course, the biggest concern for Kuechly will be avoiding another concussion. He has sustained a concussion in each of the past three seasons, causing him to miss 10 games.

The Panthers simply can't afford to lose him.

His speed and ability to chase down ball carriers from sideline to sideline still amazes Rivera Cheap Barkevious Mingo Jersey , who played linebacker for nine seasons for the Chicago Bears and won a Super Bowl in the 1985 season.

Rivera said he's "seen everything" from Kuechly, but pointed to a play he made last week in practice that caused the coach to pause the game film and replay it in slow motion several times. As Rivera describes it, Kuechly was chasing down a ball carrier to the outside when a blocker stepped in his way to cut him off.

But that didn't keep Kuechly from making the play though.

"The position he was in, he should have been cut off," Rivera said. "But he made a step in and the blocker came down with him and he jumped around him and accelerated to the outside and made the play. It's one of those where you just sit there and go, 'Wow.'"

While the focus this summer will be on improving as a pass rusher, Rivera said Kuechly remains a special player.

"He has that kind of ability and I think a big part of it is just how smart he is as a football player," Rivera said.

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