The Las Vegas Raiders are sitting at 2-12 and staring at the number one pick in the draft. The team has 10 draft picks in total, with hopes of rebuilding the franchise. Two of those picks came via a trade with the Jacksonville Jaguars. After demanding a trade before the start of the season, the […] The Las Vegas Raiders are sitting at 2-12 and staring at the number one pick in the draft. The team has 10 draft picks in total, with hopes of rebuilding the franchise. Two of those picks came via a trade with the Jacksonville Jaguars. After demanding a trade before the start of the season, the Raiders moved wide receiver Jakobi Meyers to North Florida for a fourth and sixth-round pick. Since joining the Jaguars, Meyers has flourished with 27 catches, 355 yards, and three touchdowns. His production has lifted Treveor Lawrence to another level, and the team is 6-1 since he joined. All of this led to what Meyers was seeking this offseason: a new contract. Meyers was rewarded for his play with a three-year, $60 million contract extension. The former NC State Wolfpack receiver has a chance to help his new football team win the AFC South this year and for years to come. In other Raiders links: Raiders Week 16 injury report after Thursday: Check out the injury report from Thursday as Maxx Crosby returns to practice. Geno Smith still ‘expecting to win a lot of games’: Smith has faith he will be the quarterback for the Raiders in 2025. Raiders Hit New Valuation Milestone in 2025: While the Raiders are not performing on the field, they are hitting a new valuation milestone off the field. See More: Las Vegas Raiders News
Jakobi Meyers signs extension with the Jacksonville Jaguars
Previewing Bengals/Dolphins matchup – The Splash Zone 12/20/25
The last time the Miami Dolphins and Cincinnati Bengals met was back in 2022. If you remember, that was the game where Tua Tagovailoa suffered that scary looking concussion. We fast forward to now and Tua will be serving as QB3 while Quinn Ewers gets his first NFL start at quarterback. With the Dolphins out […] The last time the Miami Dolphins and Cincinnati Bengals met was back in 2022. If you remember, that was the game where Tua Tagovailoa suffered that scary looking concussion. We fast forward to now and Tua will be serving as QB3 while Quinn Ewers gets his first NFL start at quarterback. With the Dolphins out of playoff contention, it’s actually going to be nice to see someone different at quarterback as Tua was abysmal this season. Ewers gets a pretty bad Bengals defense to play against, so let’s see what he can do. You can check out that story here, and the rest of the day’s round-up below. Setting the Stage for the Week 16 Dolphins-Bengals MatchupBreaking down all the details for the Miami Dolphins-Cincinnati Bengals matchup at Hard Rock Stadium Mike McDaniel Mike McDaniel’s job security, Denver’s built-in advantage and what sources are saying around the NFLWhy the Dolphins are leaning toward continuity, how Denver’s built-in advantage could shape the playoffs and what sources are saying as the season winds down. Mike McDaniel used one word to explain what he needs from the Dolphins’ QB — and it guarantees an entertaining offense for better or worseExpect Miami’s offense to be entertaining one way or another on Sunday. Miami Dolphins’ Mike McDaniel sees signs that Quinn Ewers is readyMiami Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel met with reporters for the final time before this weekend’s game against the visiting Cincinnati Bengals. Dolphins’ Fitzpatrick won’t play vs. Bengals; McDaniel responds to Tua-RamseyDolphins safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, who sustained a calf injury late in Monday night’s 28-15 loss at Pittsburgh, won’t play Sunday against Cincinnati, coach Mike McDaniel said Friday. Dolphins Quarterbacks Gunslinging rookie Quinn Ewers prepared for first Miami Dolphins startThe first professional pass of Quinn Ewers’ Miami Dolphins career was nearly intercepted. The second pass was completed for a loss. The third snap was fumbled. What Should We Expect From Quinn Ewers’ 1st Start?The Miami Dolphins officially named rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers the starter for Sunday’s Week 16 game versus the Cincinnati Bengals. Should Dolphins Go the Wilson Route with Tua or Osweiler or Neither?The Miami Dolphins will have a tough decision to make regarding QB Tua Tagovailoa after the season What History Suggests Ewers Debut Will Look LikeThe rookie seventh-round pick is set to make his first NFL start against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday Breaking Down Veteran QB Options for Dolphins if They Move on From TuaThe Tua Tagovailoa era might be over in Miami. What free agent and trade options could the team explore this offseason? Lack of Foresight Got Dolphins to this PointThe Tua Tagovailoa benching is the latest symptom of a major problem afflicting the Miami Dolphins Dolphins 2025 Season 5 Biggest Reasons the Dolphins Didn’t Make the PlayoffsIt’s another year without a playoff appearence for the Miami Dolphins. Dolphins’ rookie draft class unspectacular but gaining valuable experienceWhen rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers takes the field Sunday against Cincinnati at Hard Rock Stadium, he’ll be the sixth member of the Dolphins’ eight-man 2025 draft class to start a game this season. Phinsider News You May Have Missed Dolphins bench Tua, Quinn Ewers to start – The Splash Zone 12/18/25Welcome to the Splash Zone, the quickest way to get your day started off right. We bring you a rundown of Miami Dolphins news from the last 24 hours. Fins Up, Fins Down | Week FifteenTua Tagovailoa loses job while playing poorly; Julian Hill shows why he can be impactful moving forward. Three teams that should trade for Dolphins QB Tua TagovailoaThe Miami Dolphins are trading Tua Tagovailoa…soon. Mike McDaniel talks Quinn Ewers starting, Tua Tagovailoa third stringMiami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel talked about the quarterback change, benching Tua Tagovailoa and starting Quinn Ewers. Dolphins fan confidence poll Week 16: How do you expect the season to finish under Quinn Ewers?The Miami Dolphins embarrassingly lost to the Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday Night Football to close out Week 15. Former NFL star critical of Tua Tagovailoa’s actions following MNF lossJ.J. Watt criticizes Tua Tagovailoa for postgame interaction with Jalen Ramsey. Miami Dolphins WR Tyreek Hill Reacts to Tua Tagovailoa’s BenchingMIami’s star wide receiver posted a cryptic message on social media shortly after Tua Tagovailoa’s benching. Dolphins kicker Jason Sanders returns to practice, designated for returnThe Miami Dolphins could soon get back former All-Pro selection Jason Sanders. Why Mike McDaniel decided to give rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers a chanceRookie gunslinger Quinn Ewers will get his shot this Sunday. Miami Dolphins Safety Minkah Fitzpatrick Ruled OUT vs. Cincinnati BengalsThe Miami Dolphins will be without one of their top defensive players as the team looks to build momentum towards 2026. Miami Dolphins expected to keep HC Mike McDaniel; GM still undecidedThe Miami Dolphins may have already made a decision on Mike McDaniel’s future.
Rams still seen as favorite to win NFC
The Los Angeles Rams had 90% of a great win on the road without one of their top players, but unfortunately sometimes those small differences in a game amount to a huge difference in the standings. Although the Rams blew a 16-point fourth quarter lead and gave up eight points in overtime to lose to […] The Los Angeles Rams had 90% of a great win on the road without one of their top players, but unfortunately sometimes those small differences in a game amount to a huge difference in the standings. Although the Rams blew a 16-point fourth quarter lead and gave up eight points in overtime to lose to the Seattle Seahawks, not everybody sees L.A. as dead in the water. On ESPN’s Get Up, betting analyst Joe Fortenbaugh pointed out just how many weird things had to happen for the Rams to lose and he still believes that L.A. should be the betting favorite to come out of the NFC and reach the Super Bowl: Fortenbaugh notes that the Rams had to win this game without Davante Adams and they still scored 30 points in regulation against Seattle’s defense and then another touchdown to Puka Nacua in overtime to take a lead. He notes, as many have, that Matthew Stafford had 457 yards and 3 touchdowns with no interceptions despite not having Adams. He didn’t mention that the Rams also lost Kevin Dotson in the middle of the game. On The Athletic Football Show, Robert Mays and Derrick Klassen discuss how Stafford is still the MVP and that his argument may have only gotten stronger on Thursday despite the loss: The Rams loss almost totally crushes their hopes of winning the number one seed, which is so odd to say given that a win would have all but guaranteed it. L.A. still has a one-in-four chance of earning the one seed, but it would necessitate for the Seahawks and 49ers to have a really bad next 10 days and then the Rams would have to win their own games. Either Seattle or San Francisco is going to win in Week 18 because they play each other. It’s not even very possible for the game to end in a tie because the 49ers and Seahawks aren’t going to intentionally tie unless they know it eliminates the Rams from contention of winning the division. Even so, are the Rams not still the best team in the NFL and the most dangerous potential wild card in football? Fortenbaugh reminded the Get Up crew that even if the Rams are a wild card, they probably would face the winner of the NFC South in round 1 and be favored by a touchdown, then they could end up going on the road in round two to play a Bears team or an Eagles team that has not looked unbeatable in 2025, and then L.A. could possibly end up right back in Seattle for an NFC Championship knowing that as of yesterday, the Rams were the better team for most of the game without Adams or Dotson. He also thinks that Nacua has nearly caught up to Jaxon Smith-Njigba in the Offensive Player of the Year race and that Stafford is still the betting favorite to win MVP. The Rams ended up losing a game that they had control for three and a half quarters. Worst case scenario, they proved that they can go on the road and be in a great position to beat the team that is the current number one seed. They also proved that they can go to Santa Clara and beat the other team that could get the number one seed. The Rams know that they can beat any team, in any stadium, in the NFL. So going on the road is anything but the final nail in L.A.’s coffin. Managing how to put those teams away for good is the question that Sean McVay has to answer this week, but it’s far from over. See More:
Minnesota Vikings at New York Giants: Final Injury Reports
The final injury reports of the week are out for both the Minnesota Vikings and the New York Giants ahead of this Sunday’s contest at MetLife Stadium. Let’s see which players have been given injury designations for this week, shall we? Minnesota Vikings Hargrave is the only one who will definitely be sitting this one […] The final injury reports of the week are out for both the Minnesota Vikings and the New York Giants ahead of this Sunday’s contest at MetLife Stadium. Let’s see which players have been given injury designations for this week, shall we? Minnesota Vikings DL Javon Hargrave – OUT (thigh) TE Gavin Bartholomew* – QUESTIONABLE (back) RB Ty Chandler* – QUESTIONABLE (knee) OT Brian O’Neill – QUESTIONABLE (heel) Hargrave is the only one who will definitely be sitting this one out. The Vikings also had Christian Darrisaw listed as “out” for this one, but shortly after that they placed him on injured reserve. Both Bartholomew and Chandler are in their 21-day windows to return to the active roster. The team has to make a decision on Chandler by 24 December, while Bartholomew’s window opened just a couple of days ago. It’s worth noting that the Vikings have three open spots on the 53-man roster, as they haven’t made any moves yet to fill the spots that opened up when they placed Darrisaw, Jonathan Greenard, and Joshua Metellus on injured reserve. They’ll be filling those spots when they make their final moves of the week tomorrow afternoon, so we’ll be keeping an eye out for those. New York Giants WR Beaux Collins – OUT (concussion/neck) OL Evan Neal – OUT (hamstring/neck) DL Rakeem Nunez-Roches – OUT (ankle) OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux – OUT (shoulder) OL Joshua Ezeudu – QUESTIONABLE (calf) LB Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles – QUESTIONABLE (illness) CB Art Green – QUESTIONABLE (illness/hamstring) CB Rico Payton – QUESTIONABLE (back) It will be a fifth straight missed game for Thibodeaux, which will benefit a Vikings team that will definitely be without Darrisaw and could potentially be without O’Neill. Neal has not played a snap this season for the Giants and is in his window to return to the roster after being designated to return from injured reserve. If he does come back, it won’t be this week against the Vikings. Those are the final injury reports for this week, folks. We’ll see what moves the Vikings make to round out the roster on Saturday afternoon before they depart for the East Coast. See More:
Chiefs News 12/19: Jaylen Watson knows that his draft class is about to be separated
The latest Business of Football: End of Chiefs’ Run Is How the NFL Works | SI And from a business point of view, the future does not look bright. Mahomes carries a $78.2 million cap charge for next year, one that will obviously be restructured to push a large chunk of those cap charges into the […] The latest And from a business point of view, the future does not look bright. Mahomes carries a $78.2 million cap charge for next year, one that will obviously be restructured to push a large chunk of those cap charges into the future. They have the second-worst cap table in the league next year, better than only the Cowboys, and Travis Kelce’s future is uncertain. This could be the end of an era. Having been around the NFL for decades, I was constantly reminded of the one overriding feature that the league prides itself on: competitive balance. It is baked into the system with the salary cap, draft, free agency restraints and equal revenue sharing, creating an atmosphere where bad teams can improve faster and good teams have a hard time staying good. While we didn’t make a Super Bowl in my decade in Green Bay, we won our division four times, which I am very proud to be a part of. I know how hard that sustained success was then, and is now; thus my continued admiration and fandom for the Packers. But at some point circumstances, fortune and the pull of competitive balance overtake teams. That happened to the Chiefs this year. Kansas City Chiefs defensive lineman George Karlaftis spoke with reporters on Wednesday, commenting on practice without quarterback Patrick Mahomes. “Yeah, absolutely, he’s (Patrick Mahomes) one of the things that makes this thing go,” said Karlaftis. “Definitely different without him being here, just like with any other position, it’s next man up, and I know Gardner’s (Minshew) going to do a great job. But yeah, it’s for sure different. I got here today, (and) it was the first time since I’ve been here that I haven’t seen him or his car here. It was different.” The Chiefs will likely be using players from the practice squad or those with limited experience as they play out the rest of the 2025 schedule. Karlaftis described what he’s seen from the younger guys this season. He’s part of a heralded group — the Chiefs’ draft class of 2022 — that is likely to split apart this offseason while facing free agency for the first time. “Those are my brothers for life,” Watson told The Athletic on Wednesday. “We’ve been through so much — just blood, sweat and tears and hard work together. It’s gonna be tough, everyone going in their different paths. But I enjoyed the time we had together.” Watson, a seventh-round pick, is one of many pending free agents who remain on the Chiefs’ roster as part of a draft class that reshaped it. Others include second-round safety Bryan Cook, third-round linebacker Leo Chenal, fourth-round cornerback Joshua Williams, seventh-round running back Isiah Pacheco and seventh-round cornerback Nazeeh Johnson. The group won championships in its first two years before also reaching the Super Bowl last season. That was all before a disappointing 2025, as K.C. has struggled to a 6-8 record and is already eliminated from playoff contention. Why Dan picked the Chiefs: My, how things have changed in the last week. For the first time in a decade, I have no grasp of what to expect from the Chiefs. They’ve lost Patrick Mahomes for at least the rest of the season and have already been eliminated from playoff contention. After such a monstrous buzzkill, I’m interested to see if they can muster the energy to go on the road and beat a Titans team that should be hungry to kick the reigning AFC champions when they’re down. It doesn’t help matters for Andy Reid that Rashee Rice is in concussion protocol as of this writing. The only thing keeping me from picking Tennessee is Kansas City’s defense. It’s still playing relatively well, despite the team’s downturn, and Steve Spagnuolo should have a plan to make life difficult on rookie Cam Ward. If Mahomes’ replacement, Gardner Minshew, gets loose with the ball — he has more interceptions than touchdown passes in his last 13 games dating back to last season — the upset will absolutely be in play. Around the NFL The Colts are opening Richardson’s 21-day practice window, coach Shane Steichen announced Thursday. “As I mentioned last week, Anthony returned for physical activity, but he still has some vision limitation in his eye,” Steichen explained. “So we’re gonna get him back on the practice field, get him throwing, doing some scout team reps. It’s just something that he’ll have to manage through the process.” Richardson’s return to practice does not indicate he’s nearing a return to the lineup in any of the Colts’ remaining three games. When asked if Richardson would start at quarterback if healthy, Steichen replied succinctly: “Right now, Philip’s our starter.” On Thursday night, the Seattle Seahawks beat the Los Angeles Rams 38-37 in overtime to clinch a spot in the playoffs. Through the first 15 weeks, the Seahawks looked like one of the best teams in the NFL while compiling an 11-3 record. On Thursday night, with so much on the line in one of the biggest regular-season games in recent memory, they looked like a team of destiny. The story was all but written about how Seattle would have to take the long road in the playoffs, with two losses to the Rams all but ending its hopes of winning the NFC West and claiming the conference’s top seed, with the first-round bye and home-field advantage that comes with it. But the Seahawks are now in the driver’s seat for both after an utterly improbable comeback. Seattle erased a 16-point deficit in the fourth quarter, after the game was turning into a blowout following two Sam
PFF grades: Poona Ford dominant against former team
Still shocked and stung by the Los Angeles Rams’ 37-38 loss to the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday Night Football? It might take some time for the wounds to heal. The Rams are in danger of losing the NFC West division race and losing their grip on first place in the NFC conference, though they still […] Still shocked and stung by the Los Angeles Rams’ 37-38 loss to the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday Night Football? It might take some time for the wounds to heal. The Rams are in danger of losing the NFC West division race and losing their grip on first place in the NFC conference, though they still have time to take both accolades. Let’s take a step back and look at the game through an objective, data-driven lens. These are the Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades and metrics from the game. Top five grades on offense 1 – Puka Nacua, WR: 92.5 Puka Nacua was a one-man show on offense. He was the engine that tore through a very good Seattle defense. Nacua caught 12 of 16 targets for 225 yards and two scores. He was busy on Thursday in light of Davante Adams’ absence. There’s simply not much more to say about the Rams’ star receiver. 2 – Matthew Stafford, QB: 79.9 The production Matthew Stafford had against Seattle was eye-popping. He threw for 457 yards and three scores. According to PFF, this was a below average game for the veteran QB in terms of his output this season. This was his second outing with five big-time throws (season-high of six) and he managed only one turnover-worthy play. But even after adjusting for four drops by pass catchers, Stafford’s adjusted completion rate was just 71.7. He’s at 74.3% on the season. Three percent doesn’t sound like much, except for Stafford threw 49 passes. There were a few big plays missed in the passing game that ultimately could have turned this into a win for the Rams, especially in the fourth quarter. Did Stafford leave meat on the bone, even with his monster production in mind? 3 – Jordan Whittington, WR: 72.3 Whittington was only targeted one time and he caught the pass for 19 yards. His positive receiving grade of 73.0 tells us he was separating. He didn’t make too strong of a mark in the run game with a blocking grade of 56.4. 4 – Kevin Dotson, RG: 71.7 Do the Rams win if Kevin Doston doesn’t get hurt? We’ll never know the answer but it’s a worthwhile question to contemplate. We watched Justin Dedich negate a Terrance Ferguson touchdown shortly after replacing Doston, though he mostly held his own for the remainder of the game. Dotson is one of the best guards in the NFL. Let’s hope he doesn’t miss extended time into the playoffs. 5 – Xavier Smith, WR: 70.9 Smith caught both of his targets for 57 yards. He was wide open and could have possibly scored a touchdown on his 48-yard reception with a better throw. Smith has effectively replaced Tutu Atwell (who was healthy and occasionally on the field) in this offense. He also contributed with a couple longer punt returns. Other notes on offense Related to leaving meat on the bone offensively, Rams receivers were guilty of four drops: Colby Parkinson: 2 Blake Corum: 1 Davis Allen: 1 Top five grades on defense 1 – Poona Ford, DT: 89.6 Ford did everything he could to help the Rams beat his former team. Braden Fiske came into the game with a questionable tag and played only 21 snaps (15 against the pass). This expanded Ford’s role to 43 plays. He notched four pressures as a pass rusher and led the Los Angeles defense with a 75.2 run grade. 2 – Jared Verse, OLB: 80.0 It’s been the case for most of the season, but Jared Verse has taken a step back in run defense and it also was true in this game. He finished with a grade in this facet of 55.6. On a positive note, he fared better as a pass rusher with a grade of 82.0 and a team-leading seven pressures. Verse pressured Sam Darnold on what became an interception by Kobie Turner. 3 – Kobie Turner, DT: 79.2 Turner also had a nice day rushing the passer. He finished with two sacks (PFF does not credit half sacks) and was second in pressures with five. His run defense was less than stellar at 54.7. 4 – Josh Wallace, SCB: 75.4 The Rams defense has been up and down since Quentin Lake was injured. Wallace seems to be good one week and then down the next. This game was a positive outing. Wallace did not miss a tackle (something he’s struggled with recently). In coverage he allowed catches on both of his targets for 37 yards with an interception. The pick was great defensive scheme by coordinator Chris Shula. 5 – Omar Speights, MLB: 70.2 Speights was also stingy in coverage. He allowed catches on all three of his targets for just 22 yards. His coverage grade of 70.3 was his most positive contribution. He also recorded a key pressure on Darnold that resulted in a dropped interception by Nate Landman. Other notes on defense Rookie Ty Hamilton continues to grade poorly. He earned a mark of just 37.2 in this game and played a (bad) role in Kenneth Walker’s long touchdown run. Hamilton has been a gameday inactive (healthy scratch) in recent weeks. The Rams should reconsider why he’s even on the roster at all. On other negative notes, Kamren Kinchens received a PFF defensive grade of 29.3 with a run grade of 30.4. In coverage he was targeted three times, allowing three catches for 64 yards (long of 26) with a touchdown and a perfect passer rating of 158.3. Fiske, as mentioned, came into this game banged up and earned a defensive grade of 26.7. He struggled in run defense (only six plays) with
Pair of NFL insiders weigh in on Philip Rivers performance from league buzz
According to ESPN NFL Insiders Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano, the feedback from league circles regarding unretired longtime veteran quarterback Philip Rivers’ first return performance in nearly five years was largely positive (relatively speaking) following this past Sunday’s tough road loss to the Seattle Seahawks: Fowler: The overall feedback was that he was reasonably good, all […] Fowler: The overall feedback was that he was reasonably good, all things considered. “He played about as well as he could have,” an NFL offensive coach said. And that’s the challenge of playing a 44-year-old off the couch — “as well as he could have” equals 120 passing yards. And he had to strain for that 120. The football wasn’t exactly popping out of his right hand. The Colts were never expecting fireworks from Rivers. But he ran a clean operation against an elite Seahawks defense on the road and seemed to get the Colts in the proper plays. He was ready to dirt the ball when pressure collapsed and made a few timely throws. That’s all Colts coach Shane Steichen can ask at this stage. Driving the ball deep downfield will be a struggle, and I’m curious to see how Rivers responds physically after back-to-back games. Do you have the Colts sneaking into the playoffs with Rivers? Graziano: I do not, largely because of the way the teams in front of them are playing. The Jaguars and Texans have turned it on in the latter half of the season and look considerably better than the Colts right now. I understand what Indianapolis is trying to do with Rivers, and I’m hearing the same things you are about how pleased the Colts were with his ability to get them in and out of the right looks, change protections and all those things he needs to do to manage a game. But it does not appear as if he will elevate them, and they’re going to need some help to get in — even if they can run the table. That won’t be easy, as they need to beat the 49ers this week and win their head-to-head matchups against the Jags and Texans to finish the regular season. The 44-year-old veteran quarterback’s biggest contributions to the Colts offense may have come before the snap. The now 18-year veteran consistently got the Colts in the right play call, picked up the opposing pass rush and coverage, and was able to progress through his passing reads quickly against an elite NFL defense in one of the toughest and loudest road environments in the game. While Rivers showed considerable shortcomings with his limited arm strength, he was able to deliver the ball fairly accurately—albeit the Colts receivers were forced to make more contested catches than usual. Now, with the San Francisco 49ers defense fully understanding those limitations with a week of film, as well as a better idea of the Colts new offensive identity and game plan, and it’ll be interesting to see if Rivers can replicate the same degree of success on primetime come Monday night at home. The Colts offense didn’t exactly light up the scoreboard in Seattle against a stingy unit, but their offense avoided turnovers and bad plays, controlled the ball, and largely won the field position battle. The grizzled veteran and 8x NFL Pro Bowler is very much in the game manager and quarterback caretaker mold at this laaaaaaaaate stage of his renewed borderline future Hall of Fame playing career. That being said, with no timetable for Anthony Richardson’s return after being medically cleared for physical activity, and the Colts clearly believing that rookie Riley Leonard isn’t ready, and Rivers remains their best bet… For now. Whether that holds true for the Colts final three games, we’ll just have to see, but Indianapolis clearly brought Rivers back to start, not sit on the bench, as Indianapolis head coach Shane Steichen indicated earlier this week. See More: Indianapolis Colts News
2026 Las Vegas Raiders Draft Scouting: Rueben Bain
Position: EDGE Rusher Height: 6’3 Weight: 275 Stats: 2025 (12 games) – 37 tackles, 7.5 TFL, 4.5 sacks, INT, PBU, 2 FF | 58 pressures, 11 QB Hits, 27 stops, 19.8% win rate Class/Age: Junior, 20 Team: Miami (FL) Positives: Bain has an exceptional first step where he consistently explodes into the rep and engages […] Position: EDGE Rusher Height: 6’3 Weight: 275 Stats: 2025 (12 games) – 37 tackles, 7.5 TFL, 4.5 sacks, INT, PBU, 2 FF | 58 pressures, 11 QB Hits, 27 stops, 19.8% win rate Class/Age: Junior, 20 Team: Miami (FL) Positives: Bain has an exceptional first step where he consistently explodes into the rep and engages with the tackle immediately creating pass rush nightmare matchups for offensive coordinators. Bain’s movement skills continue to show within the rep where he has exceptional ankle flexibility and hip movement that allows him to bend the edge and explode laterally or horizontally to pressure the pocket. Bain moves well in space as well showing the ability to get through a block and chase down backside runners or a scrambling QB. Bain pairs his athleticism and explosive playstyle with good natural raw strength allowing him to convert speed to power while also winning with a variety of moves. Bain has heavy strong hands at the POA which allow him to make lethal contact quickly and violently. As a smaller framed pass rusher, Bain does understand leverage and utilizes it well while also having an ability to stay low and play outside of his frame at the same time. He’s demonstrated a variety of pass rush moves which include a swim, club, chop swipe, and some bull rush technique. Bain isn’t going to be overmatched athletically or physically in the NFL with elite anchor ability and a strong thick lower half that allows him to anchor back and drive through the rep or contain the edge in run support as well. His handwork is active and quick with strength as well and he dices the run game just as well as he does the pass game showing consistent stack, shed, and readjustment techniques. Bain worked well when lined up at 7/9 tech but also showed the ability to work at a 4/5 tech and be an effective stunt loop player in the NFL with above average lateral movement. Bain has shown consistent progression with his technique and football IQ through three years instead of relying solely on his natural athleticism and power. Bain is a high IQ run defender, knowing opposing rushing plays well with good discipline and strength to set and hold an EDGE. He’s able to defeat blocks in space and has true sideline to sideline motor consistently breaking down plays backside or chasing defenders far downfield. Weakness: Bain isn’t lack weight/muscle wise but height wise he does fall below NFL averages and his arm length is also just about average which could limit his ability to plant his arm into a tackles chest and turn the corner while also being outmatched by similar height athletic tackles. Additionally, he suffered an elbow and calf injury that caused his 2024 season to essentially be over before it could start due to lingering issues. Bain does get washed out in the run game at times due to his lack of length and over aggression where he constantly attempts to make up for his physical profile by extending himself too far and having clips of over pursuit in OZ run or true IZ situations. Bain also struggles at times to utilize his strength vs double teams getting washed out despite his anchor ability and becoming a non factor. Bain will win every rep off the LOS but he does struggle when tackles are able to plant on his inner shoulder causing him to have to adjust to his non dominant hand where he’s not as refined with his pass rush technique. Bain takes consistent bad angles in space and will whiff a good bit of tackles outside the tackles or TE in the NFL till he’s able to adjust better into space laterally and understand pursuit angles. Multiple clips of Bain making the wrong read, failing to set the edge, or getting washed out result in him making a play near the LOS due to his athletic ability but that will be exposed more in the NFL where Bain does struggle making the right read in option concepts or RPO instances. Bain is listed at 6’3, but there’s a real world he’s barely 6’2 or just over the mark which will cause some concerns into the NFL. From a pure box score line in three seasons, Bain has registered 104 tackles, 25.5 TFL, and 15.5 sacks with just 9 sacks in the last two seasons which is below average for a prospect his level though his pressure rate and win rate are highly above average to counter that. Grade: 1.41- Mid Round 1 Pro-Comp: Tuli Tuipulotu (LAC) Bain is going to be a fascinating prospect. he’s got the athletic traits and strength to blow anyone away and should be dominant the combine if he chooses to participate. The true junior will be knocked for his very below average height and questionable arm length but he does showcase the ability to make up for this vs NFL caliber competition though how often he’ll be able to do the same things he does at Miami in the NFL are going to be a massive question. Bain is a high motor, high effort edge rusher with natural strength and advanced technique for his age, the main point is to not overthink how effective, efficient, and impactful he is due to measurables. Teams will have to “risk” things when considering him but he will reward that risk and likely go on to have a multi 10+ sack stretch a few points in his career. The Raiders need to get a running mate with Maxx Crosby, as Malcolm Koonce and Tyree Wilson have struggled and Bain
Rams on Draft: Players to watch during College Football Playoff
The Los Angeles Rams have clinched a playoff spot, but the NFL draft process is getting started with bowl games already beginning. With over 40 games to be played over the next month, there will be plenty to watch in preparation for the NFL Draft. This list could change with players opting to stay in school or not to play […] The Los Angeles Rams have clinched a playoff spot, but the NFL draft process is getting started with bowl games already beginning. With over 40 games to be played over the next month, there will be plenty to watch in preparation for the NFL Draft. This list could change with players opting to stay in school or not to play in the game at all. This is simply a potential list players to keep an eye on throughout the draft process. Most of these players will be from the consensus top-300. This is a good starting point to get us ready for draft season. As a note, this list will get updated with more bowl games over the coming weeks. Oklahoma vs. Alabama (Dec. 19) QB Ty Simpson, Alabama OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama EDGE L.T. Overton, Alabama WR Germie Bernard, Alabama LB Deontae Lawson, Alabama CB Domani Jackson, Alabama iOL Parker Brailsford, Alabama S Keon Sabb, Alabama DL Tim Keenan III, Alabama S Bray Hubbard, Alabama iOL Jaeden Roberts, Alabama TE Josh Cuevas, Alabama RB Jamarion Miller, Alabama EDGE R Mason Thomas, Oklahoma WR Deion Burks, Oklahoma QB John Mateer, Oklahoma DL Gracen Halton, Oklahoma RB Jaydn Ott, Oklahoma TE Jared Kanak, Oklahoma Ty Simpson is going to be an interesting one to watch. With a solid College Football Playoff, the Alabama quarterback may decide to declare for the draft. This is expected to be a thin quarterback class at the top. If Simpson garners some first-round buzz, he should declare. The Rams may not need a starting offensive tackle, but Kadyn Proctor is a top name to watch. On the Oklahoma side, Deion Burks is an electric player. Miami vs. Texas A&M (Dec. 20) EDGE Rueben Bain, Miami OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami EDGE Akheem Mesidor, Miami QB Carson Beck, Miami CB Keionte Scott, Miami WR CJ Daniels, Miami DL Ahmad Moten Sr., Miami EDGE Cashius Howell, Texas A&M WR Kevin Concepcion, Texas A&M iOL Chase Bisontis, Texas A&M CB Will Lee III, Texas A&M LB Taurean York, Texas A&M S Dalton Brooks, Texas A&M OT Dametrious Crownover, Texas A&M OT Trey Zuhn III, Texas A&M DL Albert Regis, Texas A&M RB Le’Veon Moss, Texas A&M Carson Beck is another player that will have a lot to prove during the College Football Playoff. If he can lead Miami to a National Championship, it would prove a lot. Francis Mauigoa is a prototypical left tackle and one of the best tackles in the class. Will Lee III is a day two cornerback with good size and length. That size makes him one of the better man corners in the draft class. Tulane vs. Ole Miss (Dec. 20) DL Zxavian Harris, Ole Miss LB Suntarine Perkins, Ole Miss QB Trinidad Chambliss, Ole Miss Zxavian Harris is a player I’ll be watching throughout the draft process. He’s an intriguing prospect because of his size and versatility. He can line up inside. Ole Miss will use him as an edge rusher because of his explosiveness off the ball. We’ll see how Ole Miss performs without their head coach. James Madison vs. Oregon QB Dante Moore, Oregon TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon EDGE Matayo Uiagalelei, Oregon DL A’Mauri Washington, Oregon iOL Emmanuel Pregnon, Oregon OT Isaiah World, Oregon S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon iOL Iapani Laloulu, Oregon DL Bear Alexander, Oregon OT Alex Harkey, Oregon TE Jamari Johnson, Oregon The Oregon player that I’ll be watching is Dante Moore. This is one of the two quarterbacks that I would be fine with the Rams drafting in the first-round, even in a trade-up scenario. My comparison for him is CJ Stroud and that’s a quarterback worth building around. He’s only 20 years old and the perfect option to sit behind Stafford. With the Rams running more 13 personnel, Kenyon Sadiq can’t be ruled out as an option for the Rams. However, if the Rams do go tackle, Isaiah World may be one to watch. Bye Week Teams: Indiana, Ohio State, Georgia, Texas Tech Indiana Ohio State Georgia Texas Tech QB Fernando Mendoza LB/EDGE Arvell Reese LB CJ Allen EDGE David Bailey WR Elijah Sarratt S Caleb Downs DL Christen Miller EDGE Romello Height OT Carter Smith WR Carnell Tate WR Zachariah Branch iOL Sheridan Wilson CB D’angelo Ponds LB Sonny Styles CB Daylen Everette LB Jacob Rodriguez WR Omar Cooper Jr DL Kayden McDonald TE Oscar Delp DL Lee Hunter S Amare Ferrell OT Austin Siereveld OT Monroe Freeling TE Terrance Carter EDGE Mikail Kamara TE Max Klare P Brett Thorson WR Caleb Douglas LB Aiden Fisher EDGE Kenyatta Jackson TE Lawson Luckie CB Davison Igbinosun OT Earnest Greene S Keenan Nelson Jr. QB Gunner Stockton EDGE Beau Atkinson CB Jermaine Matthews EDGE Caden Curry Ohio State is probably the most talented team in the country and that’s seen by how many players they have in the consensus top-300. If the Rams are picking inside the top-10, Caleb Downs could be the most ‘sure thing’ at safety. The Rams do a good job developing safeties, but Downs provides exactly what they need if they can’t bring back Quentin Lake. Austin Siereveld is a day two tackle with guard versatility who consistently finds ways to win his matchups. Indiana wide receiver Elijah Sarratt is a big-bodied wide receiver that I could see the Rams liking. Lastly, Lee Hunter may end up being one of my favorite players in this class. He’s a nose tackle, but does a lot of underappreciated dirty work. See More: Los Angeles Rams Draft
Bengals vs. Dolphins Friday Injury Report: Tee Higgins questionable; Shemar Stewart good to go
The Cincinnati Bengals are getting some help on the defensive line this week, but will still be missing a couple of key pieces, per the teams’ injury report. Rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart will be back in the lineup Sunday after missing time with what has just been revealed to be a torn PCL. The […] The Cincinnati Bengals are getting some help on the defensive line this week, but will still be missing a couple of key pieces, per the teams’ injury report. Rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart will be back in the lineup Sunday after missing time with what has just been revealed to be a torn PCL. The rookie missed time with an ankle injury earlier in the season, but is now back in the fold and able to prove himself in the final three games. Wide receiver Tee Higgins (concussion) practiced on Friday, but remains in the NFL’s concussion protocol, per Head Coach Zac Taylor. It seems that Higgins intends to play, but it would all be dependent on clearing concussion protocol. He is listed as questionable. Per Taylor, Defensive tackle B.J. Hill (ankle) will attempt to play and is listed as questionable, while Kris Jenkins Jr. (ankle) will head to injured reserve, ending his season. Pass rusher Joseph Ossai (ankle) will be out, as will Noah Fant (ankle), Charlie Jones (ankle) as ankle injuries seem to ravage the Bengals’ roster. For Miami, safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (calf ) is out, sidelining one of their best defensive players. After a lengthy injury report on both sides, Miami has Fitzpatrick out, five other players questionable and the rest of the players have no game designation. Full Bengals vs. Dolphins Injury Report: See More: Cincinnati Bengals injuries