Tag: 2025 NFL Season

Mitchell Tinsley shines in Bengals preseason win with two touchdowns

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Mitchell Tinsley made the most of his opportunity Monday night, strengthening his bid for a roster spot in a 31-17 preseason victory over Washington.

The former undrafted free agent caught two first-half touchdowns and led Cincinnati with five receptions for 73 yards. His performance caught the attention of head coach Zac Taylor, who had already made him a captain for the matchup against his former team.

“Baller,” Taylor told NFL.com’s Kevin Patra after the game. “Yeah, he just works hard. He’s become a guy that everybody really respects in the locker room. I don’t know that I’ve ever heard him speak… He just goes out there and just works, and we respect that. And again, he created the opportunities for himself… He rewarded himself with touchdowns and catches and extending drives and someone that’s reliable for the quarterbacks in August.”

From practice squad to preseason standout

Tinsley’s road to Monday’s breakout has been anything but easy. After appearing in two games for Washington in 2023, he spent all of 2024 on their practice squad. The Bengals signed him to a futures deal this offseason, giving him another chance to prove himself at the NFL level.

Against his former club, the 25-year-old delivered. His second touchdown came just before halftime, a toe-tapping grab in the corner of the end zone that showcased his awareness and ball skills.

“It’s a step in the right direction, but for me, I try not to focus on all that,” Tinsley said after the game. “I know I put a lot of work in during the offseason and into my craft. Really, it all just came down to me coming out here and executing.”

Burrow’s endorsement

Quarterback Joe Burrow was asked postgame if he thought Tinsley had done enough to make the roster. His answer was simple: “Sure hope so.”

Cincinnati’s wide receiver group is among the deepest in the league, led by Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Andrei Iosivas. Young players like Jermaine Burton and Charlie Jones are also competing for depth roles, making the competition fierce.

Still, Tinsley’s preseason production and Taylor’s praise suggest he has carved out a real chance to stick. Even if the Bengals’ depth chart proves too crowded, his showing may be enough to earn him a spot somewhere in the league.

What’s next

With roster cuts looming, Tinsley’s name is one to watch. His ability to separate, high-point the ball, and finish plays in the end zone has stood out in August. Whether in Cincinnati or elsewhere, he has shown he belongs on an NFL roster in 2025.

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Brian Robinson Jr. trade rumors: 2 potential landing spots for Commanders RB

A young running back could soon be on the move. The Washington Commanders are reportedly shopping Brian Robinson Jr. as he enters the final year of his rookie contract, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz.

Robinson has been a steady contributor in Washington’s backfield since arriving as a third-round pick out of Alabama in 2022, but with Austin Ekeler entering his second year with the team and rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt impressing in camp, the franchise appears ready to move forward without him.

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, here are two teams that make sense as trade destinations for the 26-year-old.

Houston Texans

The Houston Texans may have an immediate need at running back. KPRC2’s Aaron Wilson reported last week that Joe Mixon is “not considered a lock to be ready” for the team’s Week 1 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams as he continues to rehab an ankle and foot injury.

With Mixon’s status uncertain, Houston could look to acquire Robinson as a stopgap starter. The Texans are coming off back-to-back AFC South titles and are hoping to take the next step toward Super Bowl contention behind quarterback C.J. Stroud. A reliable lead back like Robinson would stabilize the rushing attack and provide insurance until Mixon is healthy.

Adding Robinson not only addresses a short-term need but also gives Houston another physical runner who fits well into an offense built around balance and efficiency.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Another potential landing spot could be Jacksonville, where the Jaguars appear to be reevaluating their backfield situation. SI.com’s John Shipley reported last month that 2023 third-round pick Tank Bigsby “looked like the focal point at running back” over Travis Etienne Jr. during training camp.

After opening his career with back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, Etienne took a step back in 2024, rushing for just 558 yards in 15 games. The Jaguars seem prepared to shift toward Bigsby, but adding Robinson would bring experience and toughness to complement their young back.

For quarterback Trevor Lawrence and an offense looking to re-establish consistency, Robinson could provide a spark. Whether used as the lead runner or in a one-two punch with Bigsby, he would give Jacksonville much-needed flexibility and depth at a critical position.

Outlook

Robinson’s power running style and proven production make him an intriguing option for teams seeking help in the backfield. With Washington looking to reset its roster, the coming weeks could determine whether he finds a new home in Houston, Jacksonville, or elsewhere as the season approaches.

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Justin Jefferson returning to Vikings practice amid hamstring injury rehab

The Minnesota Vikings received encouraging news this week when head coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed Justin Jefferson will return to practice as he continues rehabbing a hamstring injury.

“It will be kind of a ramp-up,” O’Connell told reporters in a clip posted to the Vikings’ official X account, formerly known as Twitter. “You’ll see him take part in bits and pieces of it.”

Jefferson’s return is significant for Minnesota, especially with wideout Jordan Addison suspended for the first three games of the season after violating the NFL’s substances of abuse policy. With rookie quarterback JJ McCarthy preparing for his first professional start, having Jefferson available gives the offense stability and star power during a crucial stretch.

Key boost before Week 1

Minnesota kicks off its season on September 8 against the Chicago Bears, and Jefferson’s presence on the field suggests he will be ready for the regular-season opener. Easing him back during camp ensures he is healthy when the games matter most.

The LSU product has already built a resume as one of the league’s premier receivers. His accolades include an Offensive Player of the Year award, two First-Team All-Pro selections, and four Pro Bowl nods in just five seasons.

Consistent dominance

Jefferson has never posted fewer than 1,000 receiving yards in a season, even when missing seven games in 2023 due to injury. Last year, he recorded 103 catches for 1,533 yards and 10 touchdowns, cementing his place among the NFL’s elite playmakers.

As he returns to practice, the Vikings’ focus is on ensuring long-term availability rather than preseason reps. The priority is clear: get Jefferson fully ready to support McCarthy and lead the offense once Week 1 arrives.

Outlook moving forward

If Jefferson can remain healthy, Minnesota’s offense will be far more dangerous, especially once Addison returns from suspension. The combination of a proven superstar and young talent gives McCarthy a strong supporting cast to navigate his rookie year.

For now, Jefferson’s return to the practice field provides a major lift for the Vikings and signals positive momentum as the 2025 season approaches.

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This Bengals X-Factor will determine how far Cincy can go

This Bengals X-Factor Will Determine How Far Cincy Can Go

When Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow scanned the field in their preseason opener, his first two reads — Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins — were covered. So, he dumped the ball off to running back Chase Brown.

Brown took what could have been a neutral play and turned it into a gain, stiff-arming a defender before scooting down the sideline for nine yards. On the surface, it was a routine preseason snap. In reality, it was a reminder of how important Brown and the Bengals’ running backs will be to the offense this year.

According to ESPN’s Ben Baby, running backs coach Justin Hill tells his players before the summer break:

“Obviously we’re going to run the ball when we can, but we’re going to throw the ball and win games. And if you can’t protect and if you’re not a viable option in the pass game, you’re going to have a hard time being successful in this offense as a running back.”

That approach puts a premium on versatility — and it’s why Brown, entering his third season, could be the offense’s true X-factor.

Building Around Brown

The Bengals were 14th in running back receiving yards last year, well behind Detroit’s league-leading 904. But when Zack Moss went down with a season-ending neck injury, Brown stepped up as the featured back.

Now entrenched in that role, Cincinnati added rookie Tahj Brooks from Texas Tech and brought back veteran Samaje Perine — valued for his receiving skills and pass protection during past playoff runs.

Brown spent the offseason refining his pass-catching ability in Atlanta with trainer Drew Lieberman, going head-to-head with NFL defenders like Jets cornerback Michael Carter II.

“I’m just always keeping my eyes on [Burrow] and being ready for anything,” Brown said. “I mean, he’s the best in the world at what he does. He’s going to figure out a way to get you the ball.”

More Than First-and-10

Hill said evaluating a back goes beyond rushing ability:

“What else do you do if it’s not first-and-10? If it’s third-and-5, can we count on you in pass protection? That’s one of the first things I watch — is he a liability or can he do it? Can he take on a big role on third down?”

For Brooks, Cincinnati’s sixth-round pick, that’s already a point of pride. The Red Raiders’ all-time leading rusher, he also excelled in pass protection in college.

“I love breaking linebackers off in pass protection and then not afraid to gash them whenever that time is presented,” Brooks said.

With Burrow’s elite arm and the Bengals’ loaded receiver corps, the offense will always be pass-first. But the backs’ ability to protect, catch, and create yards after contact could be the detail that determines how far Cincinnati goes in 2025.

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Ranking Rookie QB Debuts from NFL Preseason Week 1: Sanders, Dart Impress

Ranking Rookie QB Debuts from NFL Preseason Week 1

The opening weekend of the NFL preseason gave fans their first look at this year’s rookie quarterback class under live fire. Eleven first-year signal-callers saw the field in Week 1, each at different stages of development — from first-round hopefuls to late-round flyers fighting for a roster spot.

Some, like Cameron Ward, are gearing up to start immediately. Others, like Jaxson Dart, are learning behind veterans. And then there’s Shedeur Sanders, who took advantage of an unexpected opportunity and delivered.

Here’s how the rookies ranked after their preseason debuts.

1. Jaxson Dart – New York Giants

Stats: 12-of-19, 154 yards, 1 TD; 24 rush yards
Dart showed poise against Buffalo’s starters, leading three scoring drives in four possessions. His 28-yard touchdown to Lil’Jordan Humphrey came under pressure, showcasing both accuracy and toughness.

2. Shedeur Sanders – Cleveland Browns

Stats: 14-of-23, 138 yards, 2 TD; 19 rush yards
With Joe Flacco resting and two other QBs sidelined, Sanders started and played nearly three quarters. He flashed mobility and arm talent, highlighted by a perfectly placed touchdown to Kaden Davis and a 30-yard strike to Luke Floriea under duress.

3. Cam Miller – Las Vegas Raiders

Stats: 6-of-7, 76 yards, 1 TD
Miller came in late but was efficient and confident, including a 41-yard touchdown toss. He nearly set up a game-winning field goal before a block ended the chance.

4. Jalen Milroe – Seattle Seahawks

Stats: 6-of-10, 61 yards; 38 rush yards
Known for his legs, Milroe added flashes as a passer, including a tight-window throw to Ricky White III.

5. Cam Ward – Tennessee Titans

Stats: 5-of-8, 67 yards
The No. 1 overall pick played two series, finding early rhythm with Calvin Ridley on a drive that ended in six points.

6. J.J. McCarthy – Minnesota Vikings*

Stats: 4-of-7, 30 yards
Returning from a season-ending injury in 2024, McCarthy led a methodical opening drive capped with a field goal.

7. Tyler Shough – New Orleans Saints

Stats: 15-of-22, 165 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
A pick-six marred Shough’s day, but he responded with a 54-yard touchdown strike.

8. Riley Leonard – Indianapolis Colts

Stats: 12-of-24, 92 yards, 1 INT; 34 rush yards
Leonard’s dual-threat ability was on display in a touchdown drive, though his late interception stalled momentum.

9. Quinn Ewers – Miami Dolphins

Stats: 5-of-18, 91 yards, 2 fumbles lost
Turnovers and sacks derailed Ewers’ debut, despite flashes in the hurry-up offense.

10. Kyle McCord – Philadelphia Eagles

Stats: 1-of-5, 8 yards, 1 INT
Struggled with timing and comfort in limited fourth-quarter action.

11. Graham Mertz – Houston Texans

Stats: 7-of-14, 27 yards, 3 INT
Three straight interceptions ended a nightmare debut for the sixth-rounder.

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Shedeur Sanders shares message after Browns’ Preseason win

Despite being listed as the fourth-string quarterback on the depth chart, Shedeur Sanders seized his moment in the Cleveland Browns’ preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers.

With Kenny Pickett and Dillon Gabriel sidelined by hamstring injuries and veteran Joe Flacco resting, the Browns turned to the fifth-round pick out of Colorado — and son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders. Sanders delivered, completing 14 of 23 passes (60%) for 138 yards, two touchdowns, and adding 19 rushing yards in a 30-10 win.

After the game, the 23-year-old took to X (formerly known as Twitter) with a familiar three-word post.

Sanders Uses Limited Reps as Motivation

Throughout camp, Sanders has received few first-team snaps, but he said he used the challenge as fuel.

“I mean God’s patient with us as humans,” Sanders said. “We mess up at times, but I don’t feel like he throws us away as individuals… it’s really just a test, you know, I feel like, from God.”

Sanders expressed gratitude to the Browns for the opportunity to play and inspire others.

Overcoming Draft Slide

Once projected as a top-10 pick, Sanders fell to Cleveland at No. 144 in the 2025 NFL Draft after reports of a rocky pre-draft process. Despite that slide, his arm talent, accuracy, and decision-making were on full display against Carolina.

Stefanski Confirms More Reps Ahead

Although it’s unclear if Sanders will start next Saturday against the defending champion Philadelphia Eagles, head coach Kevin Stefanski praised his poise and playmaking.

“The situations were invaluable for Shedeur,” Stefanski said. “By design, he got a ton of reps in this game, and he’ll get a ton of reps next week.”

Cleveland will practice with Philadelphia leading up to the matchup, giving Sanders another chance to prove himself.

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8 Second-Year NFL defenders poised to break out in 2025

The leap from rookie contributor to breakout star often defines a young defender’s career trajectory. As the 2025 NFL season approaches, these eight second-year defenders have positioned themselves for stardom with strong rookie campaigns and growing roles within their defenses.

1. Jared Verse, EDGE, Los Angeles Rams

The 2024 Defensive Rookie of the Year already looks like a franchise cornerstone. Verse played all 17 games as a rookie, racking up 66 total tackles, 4.5 sacks, 11 tackles for loss, 18 quarterback hits, and a staggering 77 pressures—fourth-most in the NFL. He also forced two fumbles and recovered two more, showing off his game-wrecking potential.

While his sack total didn’t match his pressure rate, Verse admitted he left “around 10 sacks on the field.” His elite speed-to-power conversion and violent hands earned him a Pro Bowl nod. With another year under his belt and improved finishing ability, Verse could crack double-digit sacks in 2025 and join the ranks of elite edge rushers.

2. Terrion Arnold, CB, Detroit Lions

Arnold endured early growing pains in 2024, logging seven pass interference penalties in his first four games. But he steadily improved, breaking up 10 passes while allowing a 55.6% completion rate. He finished with 60 total tackles and allowed a passer rating of 99.2, which undersells his physical, man-heavy responsibilities in Detroit’s defense.

His ability to hold up on an island in man coverage—where he led all rookies with 290 such snaps—shows clear long-term potential. With Carlton Davis III now a free agent, Arnold is expected to shadow top receivers in Year 2. A leap in discipline and ball production could push him into breakout territory.

3. Nate Wiggins, CB, Baltimore Ravens

Wiggins’ rookie tape popped with flashes of lockdown ability. In 15 games (six starts), he allowed just a 50.0% completion rate and a 66.7 passer rating, while breaking up 13 passes. He even returned his lone interception for a touchdown.

Although he split snaps with Tre’Davious White, Wiggins clearly outperformed expectations. Now slated to be Baltimore’s CB1 with Brandon Stephens gone, Wiggins’ sticky coverage and elite change-of-direction skills could anchor the Ravens’ secondary in 2025.

4. Kamari Lassiter, CB, Houston Texans

Lassiter might have been the most underrated rookie defender in 2024. Targeted often while playing opposite Derek Stingley Jr., the Texans’ second-round pick allowed just a 54.4% completion rate and 58.6 passer rating when targeted. He also recorded three interceptions and 10 pass breakups across 14 starts.

He thrived in DeMeco Ryans’ physical scheme, earning high marks for run support and coverage alike. Now firmly entrenched as Houston’s CB2, Lassiter’s instincts and toughness make him a breakout candidate in a rising defense.

5. Kris Jenkins Jr., DT, Cincinnati Bengals

Jenkins missed the first two games of 2024 due to a thumb injury but still flashed run-stopping power across 15 appearances (9 starts). He totaled 31 tackles and 3 sacks, with his best performance coming in Week 16 against Cleveland, where he notched two sacks.

With B.J. Hill’s future uncertain, Jenkins could see a starting role on a retooling Bengals front. Nicknamed “the Mutant” for his strength and motor, Jenkins has the tools to become a disruptive force in the trenches with a more consistent workload.

6. Cole Bishop, S, Buffalo Bills

After battling a shoulder injury early in training camp, Bishop worked his way into the rotation and made four starts in 2024. He posted 40 total tackles, a forced fumble, and two pass breakups across 16 games. Most notably, he led Buffalo with 10 tackles in the AFC Championship Game and played every defensive snap.

Now healthy, Bishop enters 2025 as a frontrunner to start next to Taylor Rapp. His range and athletic upside give the Bills a much-needed coverage boost on the back end.

7. Cam Hart, CB, Los Angeles Chargers

Despite being a fifth-round pick, Hart made his presence felt in 2024. He appeared in 14 games (6 starts), broke up seven passes, forced a fumble, and allowed just 5.4 yards per target—seventh-best among all corners.

Injuries limited his snap count, but Hart showed he could hang in both man and zone coverage. With more opportunity and improved durability, the 6-foot-3 corner could emerge as a top coverage option in Jesse Minter’s defense.

8. Mike Sainristil, CB, Washington Commanders

Sainristil played like a seasoned vet as a rookie, logging 93 tackles, 14 pass breakups, and two interceptions in the regular season. He added two more picks in the playoffs, proving he shines in big moments.

Though often targeted due to his 5-foot-10 frame, Sainristil’s former background as a receiver helps him read and jump routes. He’s expected to slide into a full-time nickel role in 2025, where his instincts and physicality could make him one of the NFL’s most impactful slot defenders.

Bottom line

Each of these second-year defenders brings unique upside to the field in 2025. Whether it’s Jared Verse’s relentless pressure, Nate Wiggins’ shutdown potential, or Sainristil’s playmaking instincts, these eight rising stars are poised to make a name for themselves this season—and potentially reshape their franchises’ defensive identities.

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Titans’ Rebuilt Offensive Line Faces Ferocious Broncos Pass Rush in 2025 NFL Opener

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Titans’ Rebuilt Offensive Line Faces Ferocious Pass Rush in 2025 NFL Opener

The Tennessee Titans have aggressively overhauled their offensive line in preparation for the 2025 NFL season, aiming to provide solid protection for No. 1 overall pick Cam Ward. However, this new unit faces an immediate and brutal challenge in Week 1 against the Denver Broncos, who led the NFL with a jaw-dropping 63 sacks in 2024—outpacing every other team by a wide margin (Jon Heath, Yahoo Sports).

To strengthen their trenches, the Titans signed left tackle Dan Moore Jr. to a four-year, $82 million contract with $50 million guaranteed (Reuters). Moore’s arrival allows JC Latham, last year’s first-round pick, to shift to his natural position at right tackle, thereby upgrading both edges of the offensive line. The team also brought in veteran Kevin Zeitler at right guard to provide leadership and consistency, while 2025 fifth-round draft pick Jackson Slater adds depth to the interior.

Despite these moves, the unit’s chemistry remains a concern. Center Lloyd Cushenberry III is returning from a season-ending Achilles injury and may not be fully up to speed. With multiple new pieces and Latham making his NFL debut at right tackle, the offensive line is still learning how to operate as one.

Meanwhile, the Broncos’ defensive front, coordinated by Vance Joseph, remains intact from last season and looks just as dangerous. Their top eight sack producers—including Nik Bonitto (13.5), Jonathon Cooper (10.5), and Zach Allen (8.5)—are all returning, making Denver’s pass rush arguably the most fearsome in the NFL.

For the Titans, this Week 1 contest isn’t just a game—it’s a stress test. If the offensive line can hold its ground against Denver’s elite defense, it would validate the aggressive offseason strategy. If not, it could be a rude awakening for Cam Ward and a wake-up call for Tennessee’s front office.

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