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Falcons sign QB Easton Stick

Mon Apr 21 7:36pm ET
Field Level Media

The Atlanta Falcons signed free agent quarterback Easton Stick on Monday. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Stick, 29, spent the past six seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers after they selected him in the fifth round of the 2019 draft.

Stick has gotten into six career games and made four starts in 2023 while Justin Herbert was injured. He has career totals of 1,133 yards, three touchdowns and one interception on 64 percent passing.

The Falcons' move comes amid speculation that they could trade quarterback Kirk Cousins, with owner Arthur Blank saying the team would be happy to have him as their backup to Michael Penix Jr. in 2025 but would also listen to the right trade offer. Cousins also has a no-trade clause that he must waive for a deal to go through.

The Falcons benched Cousins in favor of Penix midway through 2024. Penix is the team's No. 1 quarterback entering the new season, and 2024 undrafted free agent Emory Jones is also on the depth chart.

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Player Notes
C.J. Stroud Apr 21 6:10pm CT
C.J. Stroud

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud said he'll be "taking full ownership, running the show" in new offensive coordinator Nick Calley's system and appreciates how Calley is already putting trust in him. Stroud didn't look at all like a rookie in 2023 under previous offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik, but he came back down to Earth a bit in 2024 in his sophomore campaign and finished as the QB17 in fantasy while throwing for 3,727 yards, 20 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in 17 regular-season games. Protection was the biggest issue, as the former second overall pick took a whopping 52 sacks in 2024 after being sacked 38 times in 15 regular-season games as a rookie. Stroud could be more effective again with more control of the offense, particularly before the snap, leaving him as a fine midrange QB1 bounce-back target in fantasy.

From RotoBaller

Fred Warner Apr 21 6:00pm CT
Fred Warner

There is some uncertainty as to whether San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner will take part in the team's offseason program (which begins on Tuesday) as he seeks a long-term contract extension, according to The Athletic's Michael Silver. Warner and the 49ers have yet to have substantive contract talks this offseason, but Silver reports that he's likely to report for voluntary activities. The 28-year-old had another All-Pro season in 2024 and finished as a top-10 fantasy linebacker in IDP formats with 131 tackles (76 solo), one sack, five tackles for loss, two interceptions (one returned for a touchdown), seven pass breakups and four forced fumbles in 17 starts. He was a Pro Bowler for the fourth time in his career and for the third straight season. Regardless of his contract situation, Warner should be an every-week IDP starter as long as he's healthy. He's had 100-plus total tackles in all seven of his NFL seasons.

From RotoBaller

J.J. McCarthy Apr 21 6:00pm CT
J.J. McCarthy

Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell said on Monday that quarterback J.J. McCarthy (knee) is "full" with "no limitations" during the team's voluntary offseason program. McCarthy suffered a meniscus tear in his knee in the preseason last year that required surgery and caused him to miss his entire rookie campaign after being taken in the first round (10th overall) in 2024. But now that both Sam Darnold and Daniel Jones left in free agency, the 22-year-old signal-caller will be given the starting reigns in 2025. Minnesota could revisit signing Aaron Rodgers later this offseason if they aren't happy with McCarthy's progress, but that's probably unlikely. McCarthy will have one of the best receiver duos in the league with Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, but fantasy managers should still expect ups and downs in his first full season as the starter. Those holding McCarthy in dynasty leagues have to be pleased with how this offseason has played out.

From RotoBaller

George Kittle Apr 21 5:50pm CT
George Kittle

There is some uncertainty as to whether San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle will attend voluntary activities as he seeks a new contract, according to The Athletic's Michael Silver. Kittle is heading into the final year of a five-year, $75 million deal and is considered much more of a long shot to get something done because he and the team remain far apart in contract discussions. Even though Kittle is on the wrong side of 30 and is an injury risk, he was the TE2 in half-PPR scoring in 2024 thanks to 78 catches on 94 targets for 1,106 yards and eight touchdowns in 15 games played. It was even more impressive due to the fact that he played much of the season with cracked ribs. Because of his production last year, Kittle will continue to be a high-end tight end target in fantasy drafts this fall, but the risk is also high given his propensity for injuries.

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Brock Purdy Apr 21 5:40pm CT
Brock Purdy

There is some uncertainty about whether San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy, who is seeking a new long-term contract, will show up for voluntary activities, according to The Athletic's Michael Silver. The 49ers' offseason program begins on Tuesday. Silver also reports that there has been some progress toward a multi-year extension for Purdy that will likely pay him more than $50 million per season. However, it remains to be seen just how much progress has been made. If the 25-year-old shows up on Tuesday, it will be a sign that he and his agent think they are close to reaching a deal. If the former seventh-rounder is absent, it will probably indicate that some obstacles remain. Purdy wasn't quite as good in 2024, but the Niners also dealt with some key injuries to playmakers around him on offense. He could easily bounce back in 2025, though, and will be in play as a low-end QB1 in fantasy drafts this fall.

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Sauce Gardner Apr 21 5:30pm CT
Sauce Gardner

The New York Jets are picking up cornerback Sauce Gardner's $20.1 million fifth-year option for the 2026 season, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. It's no surprise after Gardner, the former fourth overall pick in 2022 out of Cincinnati, made two Pro Bowls and was named a first-team All-Pro in two of his first three NFL seasons. The 24-year-old defensive back has quickly become one of the best lockdown cornerbacks in the league and could be in line for a long-term contract extension before he even begins his fifth year in the NFL next season. Gardner ended the 2024 season on Injured Reserve due to a hamstring injury, but he still started 15 games and recorded 49 tackles (36 solo), his first career sack, an interception and nine pass breakups. He should be ready for the start of the 2025 season and will be a tough matchup for opposing No. 1 wideouts when they face the Jets.

From RotoBaller

Garrett Wilson Apr 21 5:20pm CT
Garrett Wilson

The New York Jets are picking up the fifth-year option on wide receiver Garrett Wilson, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. It will cost the Jets $16.8 million for the 2026 season. The 24-year-old former first-rounder (10th overall) out of Ohio State could work out a long-term contract extension this offseason that would make his fifth-year option basically a mute point, though. Despite dealing with inconsistent quarterback play in his three years in the NFL, Wilson has been productive with three straight 1,000-yard receiving seasons and 14 touchdowns on 279 catches (469 targets) in 51 games played (46 starts). Even though there are questions about how much the Jets will throw the ball with dual-threat QB Justin Fields now in town, Wilson has excellent chemistry with Fields from their days at Ohio State and should be heavily targeted as the unquestioned WR1 in 2025.

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Jayden Daniels Apr 20 6:20pm CT
Jayden Daniels

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels recently expressed his desire to continue improving as a player in 2025 on "Gruden Goes Long." "For me, last year was last year. That's great, but it's a whole new year now," said the 24-year-old. "I still got to go out there, I've got to prove myself to my teammates, the organization, each and every day that I'm getting better." Daniels took the league by storm in 2024, capturing Offensive Rookie of the Year honors and guiding Washington to its first NFC Championship appearance since 1991. Encouragingly, the LSU product refuses to rest on his laurels heading into his second year, and the Commanders are building around their young star. The offseason acquisitions of wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. and offensive lineman Laremy Tunsil already serve to boost Daniels' prospects. Furthermore, Washington can stock up on more talent in the draft later this week.

From RotoBaller

Tre Harris Apr 20 11:50am CT
Tre Harris

Ole Miss wide receiver Tre Harris rounded off his final day of visits with the Washington Commanders last Wednesday. NFL.com's Ian Rapoport reported the news. The 23-year-old was far more productive during his two years as a Rebel, logging eight more receptions, 498 more yards, and one more touchdown catch in 11 fewer games than he did as a Bulldog at Louisiana Tech. Harris was typically an X-receiver in college, but he moved around the formation in 2024 and played more off the line and in the slot. While he doesn't profile as a high-volume option at present, he should still impact the game with his field-flipping ability. The Louisiana native averaged 16.1 yards per catch throughout his collegiate career. The Commanders' need for a receiver isn't as pressing since the acquisition of Deebo Samuel Sr. Still, Harris would be a good investment for the team, considering they probably wouldn't have to spend a first-round pick on him.

From RotoBaller

Talanoa Hufanga Apr 20 11:20am CT
Talanoa Hufanga

The Denver Broncos have signed safety Devon Key to a one-year exclusive rights free agent tender per the league's transaction log. Key entered the league as an undrafted free agent out of Western Kentucky, signing with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2021. He'd bounce around to Atlanta before finding his way to the Broncos' practice squad in 2022. The 27-year-old competed for playing time over the next two seasons but finally broke through in 2024 -- logging 17 games with the team. On less than a quarter of Denver's snaps, Key notched 33 tackles (17 solo) with one sack and one tackle for loss. Furthermore, in each instance he was given over 50% of the snaps in a single contest, he recorded at least four takedowns. He's currently slotted second on the team's depth chart behind free agent acquisition Talanoa Hufanga.

From RotoBaller

Irv Smith Jr. Apr 19 11:30am CT
Irv Smith Jr.

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that the Houston Texans have re-signed former Kansas City Chiefs tight end Irv Smith Jr. to a one-year contract. The financial details have not been disclosed. Smith Jr., a former second-round pick by the Minnesota Vikings in 2019, came into the league with much excitement surrounding him. However, he could never get it going as many injuries hampered his playing time early on. The last time he saw in-game action was back in 2023, and he's only played one full season in his six years in the league. Currently, he'll compete with teammates Brevin Jordan and Cade Stover for playing time behind the incumbent starter, Dalton Schultz. Besides deep dynasty formats, Smith Jr. can likely be left off fantasy rosters.

From RotoBaller

James Bradberry Apr 18 7:00pm CT
James Bradberry

Per the team, the Buffalo Bills have waived tight end Armani Rogers and defensive lineman Branson Deen. Buffalo is trimming down its roster ahead of the NFL Draft, perhaps to sign free agent defensive back James Bradberry, with whom the team met this past Wednesday. Rogers, 28, logged 11 appearances (three starts) with the Washington Commanders in 2022, catching five passes for 64 yards on six targets. Despite three seasons in the league, the Ohio product has garnered no further stats. On the other hand, Deen registered one appearance with the Bills in 2024, playing nine snaps in their matchup against the Houston Texans in Week 5. Both players will clear waivers on Monday and be free to sign with any organization.

From RotoBaller

Ross Blacklock Apr 18 6:20pm CT
Ross Blacklock

The New York Giants have terminated the contract of defensive lineman Ross Blacklock. Blacklock joined the team's practice squad last December and signed a reserve/futures contract in January. The TCU product was a second-round pick by the Houston Texans in 2020, and spent two seasons with the team before serving time with the Vikings, Titans, and Jaguars from 2022 to 2023. He hasn't appeared in a game since his time with Tennessee, and has garnered just three starts since entering the league. In 44 career outings, Blacklock has registered 40 tackles (27 solo) with three sacks and five tackles for loss. The Texas native has spent minimal time during his career in the special teams phase of the game, so if he finds a new home, it'll likely be as defensive line depth.

From RotoBaller

Irv Smith Jr. Apr 18 4:50pm CT
Irv Smith Jr.

The Houston Texans have re-signed tight end Irv Smith to a one-year deal on Friday. Smith spent most of the 2024 season on the practice squad in Houston. He did end up playing five games with the Texans, but didn't contribute anything on offense. The 26-year-old is a former second-round pick of the Minnesota Vikings. Smith was never really able to live up to the hype or establish himself as a starter in the NFL. He figures to serve as a backup in Houston once again which probably won't amount to much or any fantasy value.

From RotoBaller

Mark Andrews Apr 18 4:20pm CT
Mark Andrews

Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews is reportedly on the trade block. The organization would reportedly like to trade Andrews during the upcoming NFL draft weekend. It's worth noting that the organization wants strong value in return for Andrews. That being said, it seems unlikely that an organization would be willing to pay top dollar for an aging tight end. The 29-year-old hasn't finished with over 70 receptions or 700-plus receiving yards in a single season since 2022. Andrews is still a capable tight end, but the big mistakes in the playoffs certainly aren't going to help his case. There aren't a ton of reliable tight ends available right now, so maybe a team will make a move for Andrews.

From RotoBaller

Greg Dortch Apr 18 4:20pm CT
Greg Dortch

Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Greg Dortch has agreed to a new contract with the organization. The two sides have come to terms on a one-year, $3.3 million contract for the upcoming 2025 season. The 26-year-old was a solid rotational player for the Cardinals last season. He finished with 37 receptions, 342 receiving yards, and three touchdowns in 17 games (four starts) in 2024. Right now, Dortch is penciled in as the third wideout on the roster. However, that could change with the NFL Draft coming up later this month. This doesn't mean too much in terms of fantasy football, but Dortch is a nice depth piece for this roster.

From RotoBaller

Jalen Ramsey Apr 18 4:00pm CT
Jalen Ramsey

Miami Dolphins defensive back Jalen Ramsey might've already played his last snap as part of the organization. The organization recently went public by saying they wanted to trade Ramsey in a move that would be in the best interest of the team as a whole. Basically, the Dolphins gave Ramsey a hefty extension and now they regret it. The biggest problem is that Ramsey is owed $21.1 million in guaranteed money for the upcoming season. It's going to be tough to find a buyer for an aging veteran defensive back on a big deal. However, the Las Vegas Raiders and Atlanta Falcons are being named as potential landing spots for Ramsey. The Dolphins are unlikely to get much of a return if they want the other team to take on the salary. It sounds like Miami wants to get a deal done during draft weekend, so we'll see if they can find a suitable candidate.

From RotoBaller

Ashton Jeanty Apr 18 3:50pm CT
Ashton Jeanty

The Las Vegas Raiders are reportedly in love with Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty. The Raiders have the No. 6 overall pick in the draft and it sounds like they plan to take Jeanty. This would be a huge upgrade for the Raiders who currently rank as one of the worst in the league at the running back position. They added Raheem Mostert over the offseason, but Jeanty would come in as a Day 1 starter. The expectation is that Jeanty would see a heavy workload on any team that drafts him. It wouldn't be surprising if Jeanty holds first-round value in fantasy drafts if he lands in Las Vegas. This seems like a good fit as new head coach Pete Carroll looks to quickly turn around this roster.

From RotoBaller

Rome Odunze Apr 18 3:40pm CT
Rome Odunze

Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze didn't have the ideal rookie season. The Bears used the 9th overall pick from last year's draft on Odunze, which came with high expectations. The 22-year-old finished with 54 receptions, 734 receiving yards, and three touchdowns in 17 games (12 starts) with Chicago. It sounds like the Bears believe Odunze can take a big step forward in his second season. Bears assistant head coach Antwaan Randle El is a big believer in Odunze. He recently said he wants to get Odunze the ball in a bunch of different ways. New head coach Ben Johnson is going to bring in a new scheme that should hopefully open up Odunze to do more work than just catching screens. It sounds like the Bears have big plans for Odunze, so dynasty managers should dump him yet.

From RotoBaller

James Cook Apr 18 3:20pm CT
James Cook

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook has been vocal about wanting a contract extension. Cook reportedly wants an extension worth $15 million per season. It doesn't seem that the Bills and Cook are seeing eye-to-eye on that topic. That being said, it wouldn't be shocking to see Cook stay away from voluntary workouts. It seems unlikely that Cook will sit out actual regular season games, but possibly he'll miss workouts to increase the pressure on the organization. Cook is deserving of a new contract after rushing for 1,009 yards with a career-high 16 touchdowns this past season. The Bills have already handed out extensions to other players, so maybe Cook isn't as valued to Buffalo as he thinks. Ultimately, the two sides should get a deal done, but it wouldn't be shocking to see Cook try to leverage the situation.

From RotoBaller