The San Francisco 49ers placed offensive lineman Andre Dillard on injured reserve after a recent ankle surgery, ending his season before it started. They also signed defensive linemen William Bradley-King and Demone Harris, while waiving Michael Dwumfour, as part of ongoing roster adjustments amid injuries and recovery concerns.
The Pittsburgh Steelers' Day 4 training camp highlighted rookie Kaleb Johnson's strong start and focus on pass protection, standout performances from new cornerback Brandin Echols and rookies Derrick Harmon and Yahya Black, as well as emerging players like Roc Taylor and Juan Thornhill, indicating promising developments for the team.
Following Aaron Donald's retirement, the Los Angeles Rams are considering several defensive linemen as potential draft prospects to fill the void left by the NFL legend. These prospects include Jer’Zhan Newton, a player with a similar playstyle to Donald, Byron Murphy II, known for his athleticism and versatility, T’Vondre Sweat, an explosive and powerful player, Laiatu Latu, an edge rusher with strong pass-rushing abilities, and Keith Randolph Jr., a project player with potential to develop into a disruptive force on the defensive line.
The Cleveland Browns are re-signing defensive linemen Za'Darius Smith and Maurice Hurst, with Smith's new deal being for two years and $23.5 million, and Hurst returning on a one-year deal worth up to $3.2 million. Smith, who finished second on the team with 5.5 sacks last season, was acquired from the Minnesota Vikings last offseason, while Hurst had a strong season with the Browns in 2023 before suffering a season-ending pectoral injury in December.
The San Francisco 49ers are considering options to bolster their pass rush, including potential inquiries about Philadelphia Eagles' defensive linemen Josh Sweat and Haason Reddick. However, the high cost in terms of draft picks and salary for these players, who have just one year left on their contracts, raises questions about the feasibility of such a move. While the 49ers may have interest in making a big splash in free agency, the potential trade for these players presents financial and contractual challenges.
The NFL Combine showcased top EDGE, DL, and LB prospects with impressive athletic performances, including standout showings from Dallas Turner, Laiatu Latu, Byron Murphy II, Jared Verse, and Chop Robinson. Other winners included DT Braden Fiske, DT Ruke Orhorhoro, LB Payton Wilson, LB Edgerrin Cooper, and LB Trevin Wallace. However, some prospects like Patrick Mahomes, DT Johnny Newton, and EDGE Austin Booker faced setbacks. The 2024 NFL Draft is set for April 25-27 in Detroit.
The 2024 NFL Scouting Combine showcased the athleticism of defensive linemen and linebackers, with standout performances from prospects like Braden Fiske, Chop Robinson, and Payton Wilson. Fiske impressed with his speed and agility, while Robinson dominated with his athletic traits. Wilson emerged as a top performer, running the fastest 40-yard dash among linebackers. However, some prospects like Nathaniel Watson struggled to showcase explosive numbers, impacting their draft stock.
The 2024 NFL Scouting Combine has begun in Indianapolis, with the first day focusing on defensive linemen and linebackers. Top prospects include T’Vondre Sweat, Johnny Newton, and a host of other talented players. The event is being covered live on NFL Network and NFL+ streaming service, with on-field drills scheduled over the next few days.
The 2024 NFL Combine kicks into high gear on Wednesday with draft prospects going through media interviews, including defensive linemen and linebackers in the morning. On-field workouts at Lucas Oil Stadium are scheduled for Thursday, with the focus on the defensive front. SB Nation writers are providing live coverage and analysis from various team perspectives at the event.
The Senior Bowl's second day of practice showcased standout performances from quarterbacks, wide receivers, and defensive linemen. Quarterbacks like Bo Nix and Joe Milton III showed promise, while a talented group of wide receivers, including Roman Wilson and Ricky Pearsall, impressed with their playmaking abilities. Defensive linemen Darius Robinson and Braden Fiske stole the show with dominant performances, and the secondary also had strong showings. Overall, the event highlighted the depth of talent in this year's draft class, setting the stage for an exciting NFL Draft season.
The Senior Bowl's first day of practice showcased strong performances from quarterbacks, wide receivers, and defensive linemen. Standout wide receivers included Roman Wilson, Brenden Rice, and Jamari Thrash, while defensive linemen like Laiatu Latu and Darius Robinson impressed with disruptive play. Defensive backs like Quinyon Mitchell and Khyree Jackson also made their mark, while other standout players included RB Dylan Laube and OT Christian Jones.
Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle BJ Hill, weighing in at 311 pounds, made an impressive interception while lying on his back during a game against the Minnesota Vikings. The pass hit Hill in the face, and he managed to bat it in the air before juggling and ultimately securing the interception. This rare feat prevented the Vikings from scoring before halftime and left viewers amazed at the sight of a 300-pound man making such a play.
Multiple interior defensive linemen, including Popo Aumavae and Keyon Ware-Hudson, were absent from Oregon's ninth practice of fall camp. Offensive lineman Michael Wooten, as well as receivers Justius Lowe and Josh Delgado, remained absent. Quarterbacks and centers worked on under-center snaps against defensive tackles, with some fumbled exchanges. Punter rotation and punt returns were also observed during practice.
Philadelphia Eagles defensive lineman Jordan Davis is showing encouraging signs of growth in his second year of training camp. Davis, who struggled with fitness and injuries in his rookie season, has impressed his teammates with his improved conditioning and performance. The 23-year-old is expected to make a significant impact on the team's defensive line alongside fellow rookie Jalen Carter. The Eagles have high hopes for Davis, who was the 13th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.
The Detroit Lions have several under-the-radar players to watch in the upcoming NFL season, including defensive linemen Josh Paschal and Alim McNeill, tight end James Mitchell, wide receiver Josh Reynolds, and linebacker Jack Campbell. These players have shown potential and could make significant contributions to the team.