Guest of the League
Quarterbacks Est. 2023
Dynasty $125 - FFL: Preseason | NFL: Week 1

Jets ‘Ring of Honor’ DE Gerry Philbin dies at 83

Wed Jun 25 11:33pm ET
Field Level Media

Gerry Philbin, a member of the New York Jets' Super Bowl III championship team and a two-time All-Pro over a 10-year career, has died at the age of 83, the Jets announced Wednesday.

The former defensive end was first-team All-Pro in 1968 and '69, and also named to the Pro Bowl those two seasons.

With Philbin hunting quarterbacks and Joe Namath making guarantees, the Jets famously upset the Baltimore Colts for a surprise Super Bowl championship at the conclusion of the 1968 season.

"I really believe he should've been a Hall of Famer," teammate and linebacker Ralph Baker said. "He was just a good guy, a regular guy who worked hard and shared his feelings. When teammates needed to be set straight, Gerry was the guy to do it."

A third-round (19th overall) draft pick out of Buffalo, Philbin termed himself undersized at 6-foot-2 and 245 pounds. Despite his smaller size, over 123 games (112 starts) in New York and Philadelphia, where he played his final year, Philbin record 66 1/2 sacks and seven fumble recoveries.

No. 81 was named to the AFL's all-decade team for the 1960s and later inducted into New York's Ring of Honor.

"I got the most out of how hard I worked, because I was a little disadvantaged with size and overcame it," Philbin told NewYorkJets.com in 2018. "And then just accomplishing most of my goals that I set. I wanted to be an All-Star. I wanted to win the Super Bowl.

"And the personal goals of getting elected to the All-Time AFL Team. And then finally, becoming a Ring of Honor recipient with the Jets. All those things I cherish a lot."

Top Headlines
The Paur Report

Fantasy Life Championship Live Stream (6-25)

Player Notes
Shaquill Griffin Jun 26 7:53am CT
Shaquill Griffin

Veteran cornerback Shaquill Griffin is signing with the Seattle Seahawks, reported by NFL insider Jordan Schultz. Griffin began his career with Seattle after the organization selected him in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft out of the University of Central Florida. He spent four seasons in Seattle, earning a Pro Bowl nod in 2019. He joined the Jacksonville Jaguars during the 2021 offseason before shorter stints with the Houston Texans, Carolina Panthers, and the Minnesota Vikings. Overall, Griffin has tallied 407 tackles (323 solo), 70 pass deflections, nine interceptions, 11 run stuffs, one sack, and one forced fumble in 106 career games. In Seattle, he'll join a talented CB room featuring Devon Witherspoon and Riq Woolen. He'll also practice against quarterback Sam Darnold for the second straight season.

Cooper Kupp Jun 26 12:23am CT
Cooper Kupp

Seattle Seahawks WR Cooper Kupp 'looked the part' of 'a legitimate complementary piece' to WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba during minicamp and OTAs, in the opinion of Michael-Shawn Dugar of The Athletic, who writes that Kupp 'still has enough wiggle, understanding of leverage and quickness' to make things difficult for defenses both in underneath routes and the red zone.

Fantasy Spin: Before we get too carried away, let's point out that Dugar writes that Kupp is obviously not the same guy he was in 2021 when he led the league in catches, yards, and TDs. That version of Kupp is gone, but the one Seattle signed may have more juice left than his 67-710-6 effort last year suggests. The veteran is an elite route runner, and if the Seahawks feed him the ball on short routes he could rack up the receptions in 2025. Still, at 32 and having missed 18 games combined over the past three seasons, Kupp is more of a risk-reward option as your fourth or fifth receiver.

From TheHuddle

Aaron Rodgers Jun 25 11:43pm CT
Aaron Rodgers

Pittsburgh Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers plans to spend time with offensive coordinator Arthur Smith to find a 'middle ground' between Rodgers' 'pass-happy' approach and Smith's 'run-heavy' play-calling, according to The Athletic's Mike DeFabo. Rodgers finished second in the NFL in pass attempts last season while Smith called the fourth-most running plays.

Fantasy Spin: Rodgers' move to Pittsburgh is one of the NFL's more compelling storylines heading into 2025. As has been mentioned in numerous spaces, the veteran should be the best quarterback the team has had since the days of Ben Roethlisberger, though Smith and Rodgers striking a balance between their divergent approaches will be an interesting subplot. The veteran projects as a low-end QB2 in the same area as other immobile signal callers like Matthew Stafford and Tua Tagovailoa.

From TheHuddle

Justin Fields Jun 25 11:40pm CT
Justin Fields

New York Jets quarterback Justin Fields is impressing the coaching staff this offseason with his work ethic as he heads into his first season with the team. "He's going out there and he's busting his a-; trying to be the best quarterback he can be for this team. Everybody sees that and I like that," head coach Aaron Glenn said. The biggest knocks on the former first-rounder in 2021 by the Chicago Bears were accuracy issues and his processing at the line of scrimmage. "The biggest takeaway I would say is that this guy is just a workaholic," offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand said. If Fields can improve his accuracy and decision-making while throwing to college teammate Garrett Wilson, he could become the long-term answer in New York and give fantasy managers clear QB1 upside given his elite rushing abilities. The 26-year-old has a high floor as a QB2 because of his rushing prowess.

From RotoBaller

Mykel Williams Jun 25 6:00pm CT
Mykel Williams

San Francisco 49ers rookie first-round defensive end Mykel Williams has earned positive early reviews for his willingness to learn from veteran pass-rusher Nick Bosa and linebacker Fred Warner, according to ESPN's Nick Wagoner. "He's got a lot of talent, a lot of eagerness to learn, more so than I've seen probably from any young guy," Bosa said. "He just wants to learn as much as he can, and I'm excited to give all the knowledge I can to him." Defensive line coach Kris Kocurek has been pleased with Williams' approach, and the 20-year-old 11th overall pick should have a substantial role in Year 1 opposite Bosa. With that said, the 6-foot-5, 260-pounder could be more of a developmental project for the Niners in his first year with the team. The Georgia product is unlikely to be a must-roster player in IDP fantasy leagues in 2025.

From RotoBaller

Ashton Jeanty Jun 25 5:20pm CT
Ashton Jeanty

Las Vegas Raiders rookie first-round running back Ashton Jeanty has made a strong impression within the organization, according to ESPN's Ryan McFadden. Head coach Pete Carroll said Jeanty was "every bit" of what the team hoped for during offseason workouts as he showcased his pass-catching abilities and understanding of the offense. The Boise State product received most of the first-team reps during OTAs and minicamp, an indication that he's already established himself as the team's RB1. "He's such a strong and dynamic back," left tackle Kolton Miller said. "Even if he gets hit, he's still balanced, and that's super unique." There's been talk that the Raiders could use a committee backfield in 2025, but they didn't draft Jeanty sixth overall for that. He's going to cost a pretty penny in fantasy drafts and is already considered a top-five fantasy back going into his rookie campaign.

From RotoBaller

Abdul Carter Jun 25 5:10pm CT
Abdul Carter

ESPN's Jordan Raanan writes that New York Giants rookie first-round defensive end Abdul Carter has looked explosive during offseason workouts, and it was evident from the moment he first set foot on the field. "He looks quick," veteran middle linebacker Bobby Okereke said of Carter. The 21-year-old third overall pick in this year's NFL draft was used as an edge rusher, defensive tackle and inside linebacker during spring practices and didn't look out of place physically or mentally. Defensive coordinator Shane Bowen has already noted Carter's versatility, so the rookie's usage early in his first year in the league will be worth watching. Carter could be on the IDP fantasy radar sooner than later in 2025, and the combination of him, Kayvon Thibodeaux, Dexter Lawrence and Brian Burns could make the Giants defense one of the best pass-rushing units in the NFL.

From RotoBaller

Zay Jones Jun 25 2:53pm CT
Zay Jones

Arizona Cardinals WR Zay Jones likely will serve as the No. 3 receiver for the Cardinals this upcoming season, in the opinion of CardsWire's Jess Root.

From TheHuddle

George Kittle Jun 25 2:30pm CT
George Kittle

During a recent appearance on the "Bussin' With The Boys" podcast, San Francisco 49ers George Kittle said he feels great physically and mentally, and he is not putting a timeline on his retirement. The former fifth-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft out of Iowa said he will play "Literally until I don't have fun anymore." The Pro Bowl and All-Pro fixture recently signed a four-year extension to remain with the Niners long term following a 78-catch, 1,106-yard, and eight-touchdown season in 2024. "The one benefit of not making the playoffs is you get an entire month off," Kittle said. "I haven't had January off since 2020." This sounds like a great development for Kittle fantasy managers and his upside in 2025, especially after the departure of Deebo Samuel Sr., who was traded to the Washington Commanders. Kittle is currently being priced as the TE3 in half-PPR ADP, and it would be a surprise if he's not in contention for the overall TE1 once again in his ninth NFL campaign.

From RotoBaller

RJ Harvey Jun 25 2:00pm CT
RJ Harvey

Denver Broncos running back RJ Harvey was selected in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, which was a surprise to many. Most draft analysts projected Harvey to be a third or fourth-round pick, so Sean Payton's conviction to select him early immediately increased his fantasy football value. However, the recent signing of veteran ball carrier J.K. Dobbins brought a new factor to Harvey's perceived value. Broncos reporter Nick Kosmider said that should not be the case. [Dobbins] signing had nothing to do with a souring outlook on Harvey." Kosmider wrote. "If anything, Harvey has exceeded expectations during his early days in Denver. He's in tremendous shape and has shown a natural feel as a receiver. Truer tests of his progress and his immediate readiness to contribute will come in training camp and the preseason, but the Broncos have been pleased with his progress to this point and plan to have him be a significant part of the offense." Kosmider said the Broncos targeted Dobbins well before April's draft, and Payton prefers a 1-2 punch approach. While Dobbins' presence somewhat lowers Harvey's ceiling, he should retain his RB2 upside in 2025. Dobbins is entering his age-26 season and has dealt with a multitude of significant injuries. If he gets banged up again, Harvey could be an RB1 with league-winning upside.

From RotoBaller

Quintez Cephus Jun 25 1:40pm CT
Quintez Cephus

The Los Angeles Rams released veteran wide receiver Quintez Cephus on Wednesday, according to NFL.com. The former fifth-round pick by the Detroit Lions out of Wisconsin in 2020 has not appeared in an NFL game since 2022 but has spent time with the Buffalo Bills, Houston Texans, and Los Angeles Rams since being released by Detroit. Overall, the 27-year-old has 37 receptions for 568 yards and four touchdowns to his name (all with Lions). He was forced to sit out the entire 2023 campaign after violating the league's policy against gambling. Based on his career trajectory and recent developments, it would be a surprise if he's on the fantasy football radar moving forward.

From RotoBaller

Shaquill Griffin Jun 25 1:33pm CT
Shaquill Griffin

Free-agent CB Shaquill Griffin (Vikings) agreed to terms on a one-year contract with the Seattle Seahawks Wednesday, June 25, worth as much as $4 million, according to a source.

From TheHuddle

George Kittle Jun 25 12:23pm CT
George Kittle

San Francisco 49ers TE George Kittle said he believes he will continue his career until it feels no longer fun to play. 'I don't know, I think if I get to 35 and it hurts to put pants on in the morning, I think I'll be like, 'Ah, this isn't that much fun anymore,' and I'll have a conversation with myself. But I'm feeling great right now,' Kittle said.

Fantasy Spin: Kittle seems in no hurry to finish playing and will continue to be a big part of the 49ers passing game as long as he is in uniform. He should be a weekly starting option in all fantasy leagues.

From TheHuddle

Travis Hunter Jun 25 12:00pm CT
Travis Hunter

Jacksonville Jaguars players and coaches have been impressed by rookie first-round wide receiver/defensive back Travis Hunter's endless motor, with quarterback Trevor Lawrence saying he can run all day. Hunter's ball skills and football IQ have also stood out during offseason workouts, according to ESPN's Michael DiRocco. The second overall pick in this year's NFL draft catches the ball easily and has shown good body control when he's had to go up for an errant pass. Jacksonville has mostly had the former Colorado star focus on offense, but his defensive coaches like his retention level despite spending more time on the offensive side of the ball so far. Hunter is an elite athlete and should be the Jags' No. 2 receiver sooner than later, but fantasy managers should be careful not to overspend for a player that will be playing both sides of the ball.

From RotoBaller

Cam Ward Jun 25 11:40am CT
Cam Ward

ESPN's Turron Davenport writes that Tennessee Titans rookie first-round quarterback Cam Ward is already emerging as a leader heading into his first season in the NFL. Ward organized a group of rookie receivers to come into the building at 5 am for film study and hasn't been hesitant to tell a veteran wideout how he wants a route run. Additionally, the first overall pick has bounced back quickly from his mistakes during offseason workouts. "It certainly didn't shy him away from throws," head coach Brian Callahan said. "You want to see a guy just kind of get ready and throw it again." The 23-year-old is certainly showing maturity early on, but whether it translates to immediate production on the field when games count will be another story. With limited options beyond receiver Calvin Ridley to throw to, Ward is expected to have an up-and-down rookie season, especially since he's not much of a runner.

From RotoBaller

Cooper Rush Jun 25 11:20am CT
Cooper Rush

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Cooper Rush struggled during offseason workouts and put the ball in harm's way far too often as he learns a new offense, according to The Athletic's Jeff Zrebiec. Rush was thrust into a starter's role during OTAs with Lamar Jackson missing all but one of the team's nine practice sessions, which shortened his learning curve. The former Dallas Cowboy signal-caller will be Baltimore's No. 2 QB with second-year quarterback Devin Leary competing for a spot on the practice squad. If Jackson misses time due to injury during the 2025 regular season, the Ravens will surely be hoping that Rush has cleaned up some of the mistakes that he's showing early on as he learns the offense. The 31-year-old started nine games for Dallas in 2024 with Dak Prescott injured and threw for 12 TDs and four interceptions. He has the experience but lacks the mobility that Jackson has in spades.

From RotoBaller

Jayden Daniels Jun 25 11:20am CT
Jayden Daniels

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels is pretty excited to work with new wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. in 2025, and the two have already developed some nice chemistry this offseason. "I'm excited to throw him a little screen and hopefully on the stat sheet it says a touchdown for 80 yards and I didn't have to do any of the work," Daniels said while laughing. Samuel once again battled through injuries in a 2024 campaign that saw him catch just 51 passes for 670 yards and three touchdowns on 81 targets while the Niners offense fell apart without running back Christian McCaffrey. The 29-year-old will be an interesting fit in Kliff Kingsbury's offense, but it's quite possible Samuel's physical style of play has taken a toll on him and caused him to lose a step. Samuel is going to need to be productive after the catch to retain value in fantasy. RotoBaller has him ranked as the WR43 going into the 2025 season.

From RotoBaller

Dallas Goedert Jun 25 11:10am CT
Dallas Goedert

Philadelphia Phillies tight end Dallas Goedert said on ESPN's NFL Live that new offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo is expanding the ways that quarterback Jalen Hurts can get him the ball. "I'm really excited for Kevin," Goedert said. "He's been with us since Nick Sirianni got here. He's waited his turn to get this opportunity. Throughout OTAs, I've really loved what he's doing with the offense. Little changes here and there and I'm really excited for the opportunity just to with the connection I grew with him the last four years. What he sees in me in different ways that he's going to get me the ball I'm really excited for." It's worth taking note of, but at best, Goedert will remain the No. 3 target for Hurts behind wideouts A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, while running back Saquon Barkley will also remain heavily involved. Goedert played in only 10 regular-season games due to injuries in 2024 and will be on the TE1/2 borderline in fantasy drafts this fall.

From RotoBaller

Dallas Goedert Jun 25 10:53am CT
Dallas Goedert

Philadelphia Eagles TE Dallas Goedert is excited for new offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo's system and believes he'll be featured more in it. 'I've really loved what he's doing with the offense,' Goedert said. 'Little changes here and there and I'm really excited for the opportunity just to -- with the connection I grew with him the last four years. What he sees in me in different ways that he's going to get me the ball I'm really excited for.'

Fantasy Spin: Goedert had a 42-496-2 line in 10 games last season and has always been a midrange TE1 with some injury concerns. He'll be a low-end option that will be a matchup play this year.

From TheHuddle

Patrick Mahomes Jun 24 11:43pm CT
Patrick Mahomes

Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes noted it's a big advantage to have WRs Rashee Rice, Hollywood Brown, Xavier Worthy, and JuJu Smith-Schuster all back and healthy, per The Athletic's Zak Keefer, and that depth at receiver is a driving force behind head coach Andy Reid making it a point to push the ball deep down the field more during the upcoming season.

Fantasy Spin: You needn't get into advanced metrics to see the team's lack of big plays. In 2022, Mahomes threw for 5,250 yards and 41 TDs while averaging 8.1 yards per attempt. That fell to 4,183 yards and 27 TDs (7.0 YPA) in 2023, and then 3,928 yards and 26 TDs (a career-low 6.8 yards per attempt) last year. Clearly, the lack of available talent was a big factor -- Rice did not play in 2024, Brown missed 15 games, and Smith-Schuster missed three -- so having that foursome, along with Travis Kelce, should help reinvigorate the offense. Mahomes is a midrange QB1 with some legitimate rebound potential for 2025.

From TheHuddle