MORE FROM David Steele

Raiders fan takeover means Chargers fans voting with their feet

Chargers fans are telling the owners as the L.A. move gets closer: You want to abandon us? Enjoy your rivals' fans in your stadium.

David Steele

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Vikings' defense falling apart is last straw for lost season

While all else failed around them, the Vikings counted on their defense to hold them together. It crashed against the Colts, and so did their playoff hopes.

David Steele

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Devin Hester is who we thought he was — the best return man of all time

He got the ultimate praise from "Prime Time," struck fear into special-teams coaches for a decade and helped push Dennis Green over the edge. Devin Hester did it all.

David Steele

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As long as Brady's carrying Patriots, it's no Gronk, no problem

Best receivers missing. Shoddy kick returners. No-name offensive weapons. Tom Brady can still take down a contender and keep the Patriots on track.

David Steele

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Seahawks say goodbye to Earl Thomas — and best chance at Super Bowl

An NFC title game pitting the young Cowboys against the "Legion of Boom" would have been nice. Without Earl Thomas, that won't end well for Seattle.

David Steele

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Jeff Fisher seems to be channeling George Costanza in effort to get fired

Another year of mediocrity with the Rams hasn't put Jeff Fisher on the hot seat, and somehow neither have the foolish distractions this week.

David Steele

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Even with 0-16 in sight, give Browns leadership benefit of the doubt

Rome wasn't built in a day, and the Browns are a bigger ruin than that. Hue Jackson and Sashi Brown never misled anyone about the rebuild in store.

David Steele

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Bruce Arians plays with fire by throwing Cardinals players under the bus

Bruce Arians pointed at his Cardinals players' "selfishness,'' but ignored the fingers pointing back at him. He'll get away with it if they start winning again.

David Steele

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For Patriots, no Gronk, big problem as AFC chase hits home stretch

The Patriots barely squeezed by the Jets without Rob Gronkowski, but his health is their Achilles' heel when they face real Super Bowl contenders.

David Steele

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Bengals' season bombed long before A.J. Green injury

There's no one reason the bottom fell out of the Bengals' season, but their latest frustrating loss all but signals an end to their playoff streak.

David Steele

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Angry Texans fans should boo Bill O'Brien, not just Brock Osweiler

Brock Osweiler engineered another Texans offensive debacle, but Bill O'Brien's the one who handed him the job. He's struck out on a QB three straight years.

David Steele

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Kirk Cousins comes up big vs. Packers, but revenge against Cowboys will be bigger

Kirk Cousins was at his best against Green Bay. Earlier this season against his Thanksgiving opponent, the Cowboys, he played his worst.

David Steele

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Andrew Luck plays like franchise player against Titans, has Colts on the move

The Colts have won two straight, are back at .500, and Andrew Luck is the big reason. In a so-so division, he's the X-factor, and he's playing like it.

David Steele

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With Jared Goff in and Rams still losing, who won the RG3 trade after all?

That fleecing of Washington in 2012 was supposed to set the Rams up long-term. Five seasons later, they're still the Rams, with another new QB.

David Steele

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Packers' biggest problem is false expectations, not declining Rodgers

The Packers got away with a lot on their playoff run last year. This year, their flaws are too much to overcome, even when Aaron Rodgers is hot.

David Steele

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Cardinals handling 49ers this season, but not much else

The Cardinals still looked unconvincing even while winning, barely over the awful 49ers. They're a shadow of the team that reach the NFC title game.

David Steele

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Steelers look like they should be winning, but keep losing

The Steelers looked like world-beaters in Week 1, but now they've lost four in a row. Even in a weak division, their season is slipping away.

David Steele

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Wanting Richard Sherman castrated says a lot about Kaela Carpenter

Dan Carpenter's wife knew what she was tweeting about Richard Sherman, and so does anyone else who knows the history of this country.

David Steele

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Blueprint for stopping Antonio Brown? Triple coverage and a lot of luck

Shutting down Antonio Brown goes a long way toward beating the Steelers, and the Ravens figured out how. But the Steelers helped them do it.

David Steele

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Fans turned off and tuning out after latest officiating blunder

You can admit it: that mess at the end of the first half of Bills-Seahawks was the last straw. Why should fans waste time on a sport that gets calls wrong this bad this often?

David Steele

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Steve Smith returns to lift Ravens up, tear Mike Mitchell down — again

Who's better in the NFL at what Steve Smith does, at 37, running routes, running his mouth and raising the temperature every time he plays?

David Steele

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With Ben Roethlisberger hurting, Steelers gambled big and lost

The Steelers say they don't regret playing Ben Roethlisberger against the Ravens, but they got nothing out of it now and could feel more pain later.

David Steele

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Ravens' Mike Wallace blows up Steelers for 95-yard TD

Mike Wallace hit his former team like a bolt of lightning, going 95 yards with a Joe Flacco pass to put the Ravens up on the Steelers early.

David Steele

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Teddy Bridgewater's injury keeps wrecking Vikings' season, and takes down Norv Turner

The repercussions of Teddy Bridgewater's season-ending injury keep coming in Minnesota, turning its season desperate at the midway point.

David Steele

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In Washington, Trent Williams suspension breaks trust and hearts

Williams' drug-related suspension kills this team on the field. But it also left the fans feeling betrayed after he'd made up for the last ban.

David Steele

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At NFL's halfway point, no free-agent move looks worse than Brock Osweiler signing

So far, Brock Osweiler has not lived up to his contract or the Texans' faith in him. Meanwhile, the Panthers blew it by not paying someone. These are among the observations at the NFL's halfway point.

David Steele

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Matt Ryan put Falcons' losing streak, doubts and Aaron Rodgers on ice

Yes, you can still talk about Matt Ryan as an MVP candidate. That's how big that comeback win over the Packers and Aaron Rodgers was.

David Steele

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76ers' anthem singer Sevyn Streeter took the stand NBA players backed away from

NBA players were expected to bring the heat on player protests. The 76ers' knee-jerk move should make them regret not coming on stronger than they did.

David Steele

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NBA commissioner Adam Silver faces the nation; why can't Roger Goodell do the same?

Adam Silver and Michele Roberts' joint TV appearance should give Roger Goodell and DeMaurice Smith their cue. Do they hear it?

David Steele

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While Cleveland celebrates, the Browns are winless but not hopeless

The Browns should feel left out in Cleveland's sports euphoria today, but as bleak as things are now, there actually are a few silver linings.

David Steele

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Falcons and Dan Quinn fail big, and not just on fourth-and-one call

After beating the Panthers and Broncos, the Falcons looked so inviting. Not any more, especially after making such a mess against the Chargers.

David Steele

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Big-man touchdown alert: Titans tackle Taylor Lewan catches one

The Titans jumped ahead of the Colts on Sunday when Marcus Mariota hit one of his favorite receivers for a score ... tackle Taylor Lewan.

David Steele

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Colin Kaepernick's Afro is drawing out racists like no hairdo since Allen Iverson

Colin Kaepernick's choice of hairdo sends a message, just as his kneeling does. Those who oppose him react predictably every time.

David Steele

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With Josh Brown, Giants and NFL fumble another Ray Rice moment

The newly released police documents should destroy Josh Brown's career the way the elevator video ruined Ray Rice's. The Giants and the NFL blew it again.

David Steele

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Oakland fans deserve better than two years of lame-duck Raiders

If Mark Davis really plans to move the Raiders to Las Vegas in two years, the fans he's abandoning in Oakland have every right to abandon him.

David Steele

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Just like Dale Earnhardt Jr., Su'a Cravens needs glasses because of concussion, expert says

Concussions can affect vision greatly, so Washington's Su'a Cravens does need glasses, says an eye expert. The good news is that it's probably not permanent.

David Steele

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Colin Kaepernick retaking 49ers job means karma still undefeated

Team executives did everything they could to undermine Colin Kaepernick and his former coach. Now, Kaepernick is on the rise while the team keeps sinking.

David Steele

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Once-feared Panthers defense coming up short in 1-4 season

The Panthers couldn't force a turnover or stop the Bucs when they needed to Monday night, the latest signs that their vaunted defense is missing a beat.

David Steele

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Ravens' constant changes leave Joe Flacco out in the cold

Joe Flacco has changed offensive coordinators a lot for a quarterback this good and this valuable. Some stability there could take him a long way.

David Steele

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Broncos' defense needs QBs to stay healthy, not let them down

Paxton Lynch did his best when pressed into service. But no matter who the quarterback, the Broncos' offense has to get a lot better.

David Steele

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Donald Trump is following the Donald Sterling path of self-destruction

Recordings they never thought they'd have to answer for. Protection and support by their rich, enabling peers. Donald Sterling can relate to Donald Trump.

David Steele

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FS1 picks worst time to run Donald Trump, NRA ads during MLB playoffs

When the notorious Donald Trump tape went public, FS1's NRA ad during the NLDS suddenly made them all look like strange bedfellows, or worse.

David Steele

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Good for the NFL to let players protest — now, let them twerk, too

It's still a small miracle that the league that counts pelvic thrusts on celebrating players keeps its distance as players protest injustice before games.

David Steele

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Player protests aren't the problem for NFL; a poor product is

If you waited until players started kneeling before you stopped watching the NFL, you're awfully forgiving of every other problem the league has had.

David Steele

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Derek Carr, Michael Crabtree building an incredible connection years in the making

The longer Derek Carr plays with Michael Crabtree, the stronger their connection gets. It peaked against the Ravens Sunday.

David Steele

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By bypassing Carson Wentz, Browns did him and his health a favor

Keep laughing at the Browns for passing on Carson Wentz. You'd be crying for him over the beating he would take had he landed in Cleveland.

David Steele

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Sports' most influential faces look too much alike, but Colin Kaepernick would change that

White, male and rich: That's who dominates SN's Most Influential list. But right now, who has more influence than one backup quarterback?

David Steele

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Another catch-no-catch gaffe erases Washington interception, gives Giants points

The Giants got a gift from the continued mess that is the catch rule, when an Eli Manning interception was ruled and confirmed as an incompletion.

David Steele

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Washington DB injuries are bad, clock management is even worse

Somehow, after losing Bashaud Breeland and DeAngelo Hall, Washington stayed close to the Giants, then blew a chance to score before halftime.

David Steele

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Cam has spoken on police shooting, so now it's time for Panthers, owner to speak up, too

The Panthers and owner Jerry Richardson have more power in Charlotte than Cam Newton. Call them all out when talking about the latest shooting by police.

David Steele

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There's power in NFL players' raised fists

More players are joining Colin Kaepernick by raising fists, not kneeling. Tommie Smith did the same in 1968 and sees the more direct message it sends.

David Steele

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After another police shooting, silence from Kaepernick's critics speaks volumes

The Trent Dilfers, Drew Breeses and Kate Uptons of the world had lots to say about Colin Kaepernick before another police shooting surfaced. Now, not so much.

David Steele

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Without Adrian Peterson, Vikings need luck, plus Bradford and toughness

The Vikings' season isn't over if Adrian Peterson misses a lot of time. But everybody, including Sam Bradford, is much better off with him.

David Steele

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With Giants next, will Josh Norman follow orders about following receivers?

It's Week 3, they play Odell Beckham Jr. and the Giants, and Washington needs to figure out how to use Josh Norman, now, before it's too late.

David Steele

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Cowboys' Alfred Morris delivers loss to ex-fans, but no hard feelings

Alfred Morris scoring the game-winning touchdown for the Cowboys in FedEx Field was an extra twist of the knife for fans wishing he had stayed.

David Steele

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Jerry Jones says Tony Romo's back is on track, will return when he's ready

Dak Prescott is still keeping Tony Romo's seat warm, Jerry Jones reminded everybody Sunday, after saying a pre-game exam on his back went well.

David Steele

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Instead of stepping up, Kirk Cousins steps way back against Cowboys

Washington can blame a lot of players for being 0-2, but Kirk Cousins is the one being paid like a franchise quarterback, and falling far short of it.

David Steele

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Jerry Jones gushes over Dak Prescott, compares rookie QB to Brady, Aikman

The Cowboys, including Jerry Jones, were hoping Dak Prescott could step up to the challenge. He did, in his first road start against a division rival.

David Steele

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Cowboys dodge bullet after botched onside kick against Redskins

An onside kick right after taking the lead, in the third quarter? Jason Garrett goes for the element of surprise and fails — then gets lucky.

David Steele

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John Wall's Cowboys fandom tests loyalty of D.C. fans at FedEx

Is there a traitor loose in the nation's capital? The Wizards' John Wall dared wear Cowboys' gear in Washington's stadium with the rivals in town.

David Steele

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In Bengals-Steelers, the refs are the team on the hot seat

It's only Week 2, and officials are under the gun to maintain order. Officiating boss Dean Blandino laid down the law for Sunday's game in Pittsburgh.

David Steele

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NBA players are on deck to spread protests as baseball shies away

The NBA is not limited by being "a white man's sport.'' Training camp is coming, and no league is more equipped to keep the protest momentum going.

David Steele

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Antonio Brown rewards Steelers' trust vs. Washington; that's what MVPs do

Antonio Brown played against Washington without a lot of his usual help, and he destroyed them anyway. Until further notice, he's the league's MVP.

David Steele

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As Chiefs and Seahawks link arms, Peters, four Dolphins gesture during anthem

Arian Foster and three teammates knelt, and the Chiefs' Marcus Peters raised his fist. The Chiefs and Seahawks players sent collective messages as well.

David Steele

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With new Saints deal, Drew Brees might get the finish he deserves

A great player getting the money he's due and finishing his career where he wants to? It's not as common as you think. Drew Brees may get it all.

David Steele

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Eagles keep deleting Chip Kelly's players while borrowing more of Andy Reid's blueprint

Two more trades put Chip Kelly further in the Eagles' rearview mirror, yet by starting a rookie quarterback, they're riding into the future in an Andy Reid model.

David Steele

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Ben Utecht's new book chronicles memories concussions threaten to take away

The former Colts and Bengals tight end wrote his post-career book for his family, but fans also learn plenty about the true toll football takes.

David Steele

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Bishop Sankey, first RB drafted in 2014, leads notable cuts to final 53

Two promising picks from two years ago, Bishop Sankey and Aaron Murray, are out as the final roster cuts begin. The deadline is Saturday.

David Steele

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Cam Newton runs from chance to stand up by taking no sides on Colin Kaepernick

Cam Newton talked about the Colin Kaepernick situation, but he might as well have stayed silent. The stage proved to be too big for him.

David Steele

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Coaches finding preseason games useless, so get rid of them

The NFL keeps scheduling four (or five) preseason games a year, yet star players get onto the field less and less. Once again, what's the point?

David Steele

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Ethiopia's Feyisa Lilesa takes a stand with protest while winning marathon silver

Feyisa Lilesa used the Olympic spotlight to speak against atrocities at home. Finally, someone echoed Tommie Smith and John Carlos.

David Steele

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Adding Dion Lewis, others to pile of Patriots injuries could actually doom them this time

No team can withstand losing this many key players, not even the chronically resilient Patriots. Bad news about three starters will test them again.

David Steele

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Shakur Stevenson shines even in defeat, as so few U.S. Olympic boxers do now

Shakur Stevenson was the U.S. men's brightest boxing hope, but his tears weren't a sign of failure.

David Steele

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Simone Manuel won for every American ever told that the water was off-limits

For decades, pools and beaches were as segregated as lunch counters. Simone Manuel's gold medal was a triumph over a wet, ugly history.

David Steele

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Cam Newton respects how Michael Phelps makes the great ones stop and look

In Newton's mind, if you can get the attention of the NFL MVP and his Super Bowl teammates, during a game, you're truly special.

David Steele

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Ravens fans take timeout in preseason game to watch Michael Phelps bring home gold

How do you spice up a meaningless preseason NFL game? Insert Michael Phelps' run at another gold medal for his hometown fans.

David Steele

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Cam Newton's celebration steals touchdown from own teammate

Never one to restrain himself, Newton was premature in the Panthers' preseason opener — and got a 95-yard pick-six called back because of it.

David Steele

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Time to put Jerry Kramer in Canton, while he's here to enjoy it

Posthumous inductions are an unfortunate part of Hall of Fame ceremonies, but it would be a shame for Packers great Jerry Kramer to suffer that fate.

David Steele

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Likable young, Mariners-era A-Rod shouldn't be forgotten at the end

The Alex Rodriguez most will remember wore pinstripes. The A-Rod that's more fun to remember played for the Mariners as a thrilling kid.

David Steele

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Tony Dungy stood on many shoulders to become Hall of Fame's first black coach

Tony Dungy knows where he came from and how his path to Canton was cleared for him.

David Steele

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Tyrann Mathieu is the cautionary tale with a happy ending

With Rolando McClain, Randy Gregory and others falling by the wayside, Tyrann Mathieu's success after a troubled start should be celebrated.

David Steele

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Fitzpatrick got paid, Geno got played; Jets had better make it all worth it

It's not just Ryan Fitzpatrick's $12 million salary, it's the drama that didn't match his career output. Another 10-6 season won't be enough.

David Steele

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Jerry Jones and his Cowboys can do whatever they want, it doesn't matter

The Cowboys and Jerry Jones aren't going to change just because another "second-chance" player got in trouble again. The NFL won't, either.

David Steele

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Jaelen Strong has cast off weight of extra pounds, bad rookie season in Houston

Injured, out of shape and underachieving as a rookie, a lighter Jaelen Strong is now part of a made-over, dynamic Texans offense.

David Steele

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Michael Jordan had a voice all along, and never used it

Yes, better late than never. But we'll never know what the world would look like now had Michael Jordan spoken up when he still ruled it.

David Steele

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NFL free agency rumors: Greg Hardy pays Jaguars curious visit

The Jaguars brought in the toxic Greg Hardy, the Jets may be preparing for life without Ryan Fitzpatrick, and more free-agency rumors.

David Steele

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For Dennis Green, loss by '98 Vikings altered coaching legacy

If the 1998 Vikings had won it all, Dennis Green would be remembered differently today, says former VP and SN contributor Jeff Diamond.

David Steele

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Dungy, Tomlin, other coaches of color are Dennis Green's greatest legacy

For Green, the victories he earned in minority coach hiring were at least as important as the ones on the sidelines.

David Steele

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N.C.'s hard history lesson: The NBA has muscle and isn't scared to flex it

Did North Carolina not know the NBA doesn't like rewarding bigotry with All-Star games? The league once said no to Arizona, and it's saying it again.

David Steele

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Aaron Hernandez, legal 'dream team' go to court for double-murder case

Already serving life for one slaying, the former Patriot still faces charges for killing two other men in 2012. His new lawyer represented Casey Anthony.

David Steele

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Tiger Woods isn't finished playing majors, and maybe even winning them

Three golfers age 40 or older won majors the past five years. Tiger Woods will sit out all four this year, but counting him out now is crazy.

David Steele

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NFL free agency rumors: Could Ryan Fitzpatrick really spurn Jets for Patriots?

Training camp is around the corner, and there are notable names available. Anquan Boldin seems close to signing, but who's next?

David Steele

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Deflategate victory leaves Roger Goodell all powerful in kingdom of NFL

Roger Goodell can cross everything off his Deflategate checklist now. After more than a year of lunacy, the commissioner's power is absolute.

David Steele

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Chiefs, NFL giving safeties like Eric Berry short end of salary stick

All things considered, the money it would take for the Chiefs to lock up Eric Berry isn't that much.

David Steele

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Tony Dungy to Jimmy Garoppolo: Don't try to be Tom Brady

Without Tom Brady for four games (for now), the Patriots will "do fine," according to Tony Dungy, who's seen enough of the Patriots to know.

David Steele

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Le'Veon Bell wants a $15M contract, but the Steelers should know better

To Le'Veon Bell, a fat contract would be music to his ears. But the NFL still hates paying running backs, and change is a long way off.

David Steele

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Blazers' Damian Lillard victim-blames in police shootings, then gets set straight

After misguided tweets, Damian Lillard had to be reminded that African-Americans don't have to negotiate with society for the right to live.

David Steele

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Stop making Von Miller, others take back seat to QBs when it comes to salaries

Quarterbacks are important, but not that much more than every other position. It's time to shake up the salary structure. Start with Von Miller.

David Steele

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Marvin Miller and Curt Flood, who opened door for Durant, still aren't in Hall of Fame

Love it or hate it, free agency is part of the foundation of pro sports. Marvin Miller and Curt Flood, who helped create it, aren't being honored for it.

David Steele

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NFL players angry about NBA contracts really should be angry about their own

Mike Conley signed for nearly double what Andrew Luck got, and NFL players noticed. Many have some uncomfortable questions for their union.

David Steele

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Cowboys' Rolando McClain should be out of chances, even with enabler Jerry Jones

Two-time bust Rolando McClain got a typical Cowboys' reprieve, with typical results. No wonder so many think Johnny Manziel is a natural for them.

David Steele

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Give Herschel Walker, USFL their due: put him in the Hall of Fame

Maybe Herschel Walker can still do MMA at 54, maybe not. But there's no maybe about whether he belongs in Canton: he does.

David Steele

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Andrew Luck, as great as he is, will never play up to contract, or Manning's ghost

For all that money, Andrew Luck will be expected to outdo what Peyton Manning did for the Colts.He won't be able to, and no contract can change that.

David Steele

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Muhammad Ali was 'The People's Champ' as much as 'The Greatest'

The ring was Muhammad Ali's stage, and he used it to tell the people of the world they could be whoever they wanted to be.

David Steele

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NFL's 'hypocrisy' shows with Vegas push and gambling fight, says N.J. politician

You're opposing sports betting, but considering putting a team in Las Vegas? One legalization advocate says the NFL is busted again.

David Steele

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Cam Newton is the world's most famous NFL quarterback, but nowhere near the best

The stars of the NFL's glamour position aren't very high on ESPN's list ranking 100 of the world's most famous athletes. They're not ranked by how good they are, either.

David Steele

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Kevin Durant is the victim, according to foolish NBA conspiracy theorists

Those who insist the NBA manipulates its playoffs can't quite explain why a player as universally popular as Kevin Durant was left out of the Finals.

David Steele

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Draymond Green's kick was unnecessary proof the NBA hasn't gone soft after all

Nostalgia for the 1990s is fun, but not when it comes to plays like Draymond Green's groin kick.

David Steele

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Draft snub driving Vernon Adams to NFL tryouts and CFL options

Vernon Adams isn't letting his size, or going undrafted, discourage him. His dream might come true, but not on this side of the border.

David Steele

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Unlucky break with Shaq Lawson may doom Bills' Rex Ryan, Doug Whaley

Shaq Lawson might miss his entire rookie season, ruining the Bills' hopes already. Still feel good about those way-too-early draft grades?

David Steele

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LeBron James is the king of mind games, as the Warriors already are finding out

Once again, what LeBron James says, even about Stephen Curry and Steve Kerr, isn't as important as what he doesn't say. Start the Finals, already.

David Steele

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Bad officiating making cursed NBA playoffs even worse

As if the injuries and lopsided series aren't bad enough, all the rotten calls are dragging this postseason even deeper through the mud.

David Steele

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Don't fight it, legends, embrace it: Stephen Curry belongs in your club

Fighting Stephen Curry and his art is just pure willful stubbornness. With Monday's magical OT performance, he shut up the wave of Hall of Fame critics denouncing him.

David Steele

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Dial it back on bloated NFL pregame shows — less is more

When is the last time anyone connected to the NFL tried to do less? The networks should try it, starting with the pregame shows.

David Steele

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Another tone-deaf Penn State president wrong about who the victims are

Is Penn State ever going to get it right? Their current president sure got it wrong with his letter aiming at the media over the new Sandusky reports.

David Steele

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Ovechkin's save when Caps needed him was even bigger than Holtby's

Alex Ovechkin's rep for not showing up in the playoffs took a hit, as hard as his shot that spurred the Caps to a do-or-die win over the Penguins.

David Steele

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Ode to 'Beast Mode': Marshawn Lynch was a grounded star in a pass-heavy era

There will be other great runners, but as passing keeps eclipsing rushing, Marshawn Lynch's legacy and accomplishments will only grow.

David Steele

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Ready to predict the 2017 draft already? Be ready to be wrong

Predicting the NFL Draft a year in advance is bold. Last year's way-too-early mock drafts prove it: lots of Shawn Oakman, no Carson Wentz.

David Steele

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Colin Kaepernick's last hope to get away from 49ers is to skip OTAs

Colin Kaepernick's shoulder is improving, but he's still on a team he doesn't want to be on. It's time to use the only leverage he has left.

David Steele

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Dolphins' plan for helping rookies like Laremy Tunsil is already better than NFL's

The NFL has handed rookie orientation off to the teams. For the Dolphins and Laremy Tunsil, it wasn't a moment too soon.

David Steele

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Refs will get called out for blowing Thunder-Spurs, and that's a great thing

The NBA's officiating report won't turn a Thunder win into a loss, but the idea of shining a light on bad refs is a runaway win for the sport.

David Steele

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49ers, others come out of draft with same problems, or worse

The 49ers had lots of quarterback drama, and after the draft, they still do. Sometimes, the draft isn't the solution for everything.

David Steele

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At new position, Keenan Reynolds is just what Ravens need at right time

If the Navy allows Keenan Reynolds to play right away, the Ravens may have stolen a crucial piece to their offense in the sixth round.

David Steele

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Dak Prescott falls to Cowboys, who finally may have Romo's replacement

The Cowboys don't want to repeat their quarterback debacle of last year. They shouldn't, with Dak Prescott on board to groom for the future.

David Steele

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Cardale Jones waited a year too long to go to NFL

From hot prospect and possible second-day pick to bottom of the fourth round, Cardale Jones blew it by staying in school an extra year.

David Steele

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Browns cashed in No. 2 pick better than Titans did with No. 1

The new Browns front office was dedicated to piling up picks, and they managed to collect more with a lower pick than the Titans did.

David Steele

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With No. 1 pick and LA up for grabs, heat is on Rams' Fisher, Snead

The returning Rams and the franchise quarterback they're picking can own La-La land. Coach Jeff Fisher and GM Les Snead better not blow it.

David Steele

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Braxton Miller, QB turned WR, ready for Ochocinco Experience after NFL Draft

Switching positions has Braxton Miller seeking all the help he can find. He and Chad Johnson plan to connect after Miller's expected high draft selection.

David Steele

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Deflategate will finally cost Patriots on draft day

More than a year after Deflategate began, the Patriots suffer their first real punishment: no first-round pick Thursday. They're going to miss it.

David Steele

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Deflategate ruling confirms Roger Goodell has all the power, and the players have none

At least when the NFLPA has challenged Roger Goodell in court before, they've found cracks in his armor. This latest ruling made him all but bulletproof.

David Steele

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Five years later: One great QB, two duds, defensive line greats from 2011 draft

In an otherwise loaded 2011 draft, only the teams that reached for quarterbacks truly lost out. Should the Rams and Eagles be taking notes?

David Steele

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It's time the NFL made the Prince-painkiller connection that Eugene Monroe did

Like football players, Prince beat his body up for the world's entertainment. The cost of his choice to deal with it may finally open the NFL's eyes.

David Steele

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Josh Norman not worth it? To defense-poor Washington, he's worth every penny

Washington is better now, and the Panthers aren't. But by breaking the bank and beating the tag system, Josh Norman is the biggest winner.

David Steele

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Another tired NFL tradition returns: mistaking 'voluntary' for 'mandatory'

You thought this would be the year some player wouldn't be disparaged for not showing up at a "voluntary" workout? You thought wrong.

David Steele

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Pearl Washington made unforgettable moments any time, any place

Pearl Washington didn't need the bright lights of the Garden to make magic. One night in Buffalo in 1985, he did it in a summer tournament that doesn't even exist anymore.

David Steele

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Dominant? Sure, but Caps haven't escaped hideous history

To follow the Caps in the playoffs is to live with big letdowns after high expectations. This year shows every sign of being different, though ... doesn't it?

David Steele

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J.J. Watt's tough pose disrespects concussion crisis and those fighting it

J.J. Watt thinks players worried about concussions are "mad at the world." Football's future is worse off because players of Watt's magnitude still think that.

David Steele

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NFL could have been the sport celebrating Jackie Robinson Day

Had the NFL been more progressive at the time, it could have laid claim to Jackie Robinson's legacy. Early on, he was far better in football than baseball.

David Steele

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Is Josh Gordon a dope, or the victim of a dopey policy?

The rules say Josh Gordon has to stay clean to get back into the NFL, and he can't. Maybe what needs to be cleaned up is the NFL's marijuana policy.

David Steele

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If you choose Kobe Bryant's finale over the Warriors, prepare to miss true history

Sure, there's only one last game for Kobe Bryant. But there will only be one 73rd win, ever. Don't even think about blowing off the Warriors' big moment.

David Steele

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Raiders won't break if Aldon Smith can't keep himself together

The best-case scenario for the Raiders and Aldon Smith is that he contributes to a playoff run. The worst-case is bad for Smith, but not so much for the team.

David Steele

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The Masters no longer must-see TV without Tiger

The Masters began Thursday, and chances are you know who's not playing — Tiger Woods — more than who is. The stars have dropped the torch that was there for the taking.

David Steele

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Greg Hardy should be kept out of NFL until he shows he can act like a man

ESPN did everybody a favor by interviewing Greg Hardy. He proved beyond a shadow of a doubt he's too immature for an adult league.

David Steele

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Steve Smith's takedown of Greg Hardy means players' pushback on domestic violence is real

The Ravens' Steve Smith is the latest player to say that domestic violence won't get a free pass. Their voices mean more than any others in the NFL.

David Steele

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No charges in LeSean McCoy brawl, but NFL might punish him just because it can

Since figuring out ways to punish players is a sport in itself for the NFL, everything's in play with LeSean McCoy despite no charges being filed.

David Steele

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Is RGIII a prospect or pawn for Broncos and Jets?

So far, the only reported interest in Robert Griffin III is from teams openly courting other quarterbacks. It's the latest cruel twist in RGIII's decline.

David Steele

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Embrace the Washington stadium's excess ... it's so very NFL

Why make fun of the stadium Dan Snyder wants to build, complete with a moat? The NFL is over the top, so its home fields should be, too.

David Steele

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If guards matter in NCAA tournament, then write in Paige, Berry and North Carolina

In Marcus Paige and Joel Berry II, North Carolina, the East's top seed, has a backcourt most would envy, and it's peaking at the right time.

David Steele

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ACC champ North Carolina is a sure No. 1, but give Virginia one, too

North Carolina proved its worth in the ACC title game, but so did Virginia. Did Villanova's loss open the door for another No. 1 seed? It should have.

David Steele

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Virginia's defense ready to drive one last team mad as it pushes toward ACC crown

It's tough to slow down North Carolina, but if any team can, it's Virginia, which reached the ACC Tournament final by rattling another opponent with its defense.

David Steele

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Twist of fate kept ex-Pittsburgh star from becoming a real ACC 'legend'

More tales from the ACC-Big East mash-up: former Pitt star Charles Smith was once one recruitment change of plans from committing to Maryland.

David Steele

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Virginia's defense is tough to crack, but Larranaga, Miami have done it

Does Miami have the key to solving Virginia's frustrating defense in the teams' ACC Tournament semifinal? The Hurricanes had it last month when they stunned the potential No. 1 seed.

David Steele

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Now it gets tough for UNC; Notre Dame up next in ACC Tournament

Roy Williams lashed out at claims the Tar Heels' conference schedule was easy. His team can disprove those claims by beating the Irish in the tournament semis.

David Steele

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No N.C. rematch: Notre Dame boots Duke from ACC Tournament

Even short-handed, Duke had enough energy to take a 16-point second-half lead on the Irish. But they couldn't hold it, and Notre Dame moved on.

David Steele

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ACC Tournament, or Big East challenge? To many, it's still both

Day 3 of the ACC Tournament features old vs. new, as the Big East imports face the longtime members, highlighted the split loyalties to both leagues.

David Steele

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ACC Cinderella? Look at Georgia Tech against Virginia, again

Georgia Tech stormed back against Clemson to force overtime and win in the ACC Tournament. It will now face a UVA team it has already beaten.

David Steele

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Duke playing the underdog card? Don't believe the hype

Duke looked vulnerable again in the ACC tournament, so Mike Krzyzewski is selling them as scrappers battling the odds. Don't buy it.

David Steele

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Duke dodges last-minute disaster, stays alive in ACC Tournament

Duke, underwhelming all season and low-seeded in the ACC Tournament, barely avoided an upset against North Carolina State.

David Steele

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Syracuse's last-second loss to Pitt might have burst NCAA bubble

After falling in the final seconds in the ACC tournament, Syracuse is left hoping the NCAA selection committee is kind to them on Sunday.

David Steele

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Duke's second-round ACC tourney game serves as a wake-up call

The ACC Tournament usually doesn't serve up one of the blueboods on Day 2, but Duke, which is down from its lofty standards, is in the spotlight Wednesday.

David Steele

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ACC Tournament in D.C.? Take that with you to the Big Ten, Maryland

Washington hosting the ACC Tournament four years after Maryland left the conference is a thumb in the eye of its ex-partner and its fans.

David Steele

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After tossing out Chip Kelly, Eagles are tossing all his players out, too

The new Eagles management is hosing out the stables, proving how much they think Chip Kelly's personnel decisions stunk.

David Steele

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NFL's changing nature could make Manning's records unbreakable

In a few years, the NFL will look far different than it did in Peyton Manning's prime. That will keep anyone from breaking his records for a long time.

David Steele

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After all the records, Peyton Manning still needed one more Super win

Year after year, Peyton Manning piled up records, but Tom Brady collected rings. Has any great player ever won so much without being defined as a "winner"?

David Steele

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Elliott, Henry lead big rush away from NFL's passing era

For a league dominated by the pass, it's becoming easier to find elite running backs. Ezekiel Elliott, Derrick Henry and others are coming.

David Steele

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Quick change may get Navy QB Reynolds into NFL, even with military obligation

Switching positions on the fly, getting snubbed by the Combine, serving in the Navy: Keenan Reynolds's path to the NFL is unlike any other's.

David Steele

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Some team will panic and reach for a QB in the draft, but which one?

The state of NFL quarterbacking is so desperate, some poor prospect will get drafted too early and become the next Blaine Gabbert or Christian Ponder.

David Steele

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Jonathan Papelbon's apology for choking Bryce Harper proved who needed humbling

Jonathan Papelbon's "lesson" to Bryce Harper last season backfired badly. His spring-training apology confirmed who's in charge, and why.

David Steele

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Roger Goodell fiddles while another player's career burns out early

Jerod Mayo has joined an ever-growing list of players walking away at or before age 30. Roger Goodell is wrong: that is a bad thing for the NFL.

David Steele

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RGIII to Elway's Broncos would be gutsiest, smartest move of offseason

Robert Griffin III to the Broncos is more than a super story. It's exactly what Griffin needs, and it's the boldest move the champs could make.

David Steele

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Time for Manning to walk away with what's left of his rep

With the latest report on a sexual assault from his college days, Peyton Manning's luck may have run out. Retiring from the spotlight is the smart move.

David Steele

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History should have taught Derek Fisher where to draw the line

Some lines should never be crossed, but Derek Fisher may have crossed one. Did he learn nothing from past tales of players and the wives and girlfriends of teammates?

David Steele

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Breaking down T.O.'s competition for Hall of Fame Class of '17, including one old rival

Can't wait to see if Terrell Owens makes the cut for the Hall of Fame next year? OK, you have to wait, but here's who might and might not make it.

David Steele

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John Elway built champion Broncos from rubble of Super blowout by Seahawks

The Super Bowl win over the Panthers validated the big-risk, big-reward moves John Elway made for two years after the humiliation by Seattle.

David Steele

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One voter's NFL Honors ballot: Panthers keep pounding awards, too

Here's one voter's ballot for the major regular-season awards to be presented at Saturday's NFL Honors ceremony. Hint: The Panthers had a good year.

David Steele

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Forget his football future — why isn't Johnny Manziel in jail?

This is now over the heads of the Browns and the NFL. Johnny Manziel twice has gotten passes from the police on ugly domestic violence and alcohol-related incidents. Why?

David Steele

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To Lynn Swann, the catch of his life was 'business as usual'

Lynn Swann made that incredible catch in Super Bowl X, and 40 years later, it's still his defining moment. Swann talks to Sporting News all about it.

David Steele

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Super Bowl pick straight up: Newton, Panthers take the 'D' out of Denver

The defenses will rule in Super Bowl 50. But the Broncos won't have enough answers for Cam Newton, and the Panthers will take the crown.

David Steele

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AFC, NFC championship picks straight up: Defense drives Broncos, Panthers silence doubters

With the Super Bowl at stake, the Broncos' defense will overshadow the Manning-Brady rivalry, and the Panthers will fend off one last challenger. Here's why.

David Steele

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'Elder' Larry Fitzgerald reminds Packers of his greatness

It's hard to forget Larry Fitzgerald is as great as he is, but the Packers got the most painful reminder possible, and the Cardinals are in the NFC title game because of it.

David Steele

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Randall Cobb ruled out of Packers-Cardinals game with chest injury

The Packers' Randall Cobb injured his chest after a sensational catch against the Cardinals, and had to leave their playoff game for X-rays.

David Steele

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Why the Packers can put memory of Cardinals' rout behind them

The Cardinals stopped Aaron Rodgers and the Packers' offense cold last month. This time, the Packers say that the result will be different. That in key facets, they're better now.

David Steele

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Hue Jackson must remember Johnny Manziel is symptom of Browns' problems, not cause

The Browns are adding Hue Jackson and reportedly subtracting Johnny Manziel. But Johnny Football is only part of the problem that he has to solve.

David Steele

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St. Louis lost the Rams, but Kroenke, owners are still losers

The NFL wanted to get back to LA so badly, it didn't matter whose hearts it trampled. St. Louis fans got it this time, and Rams owners Stan Kroenke was more than willing to do the stomping.

David Steele

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Redskins had Kirk Cousins' back, now will back up armored truck to pay him

Kirk Cousins couldn't have picked a better time to have a breakout year. Does he deserve a breakout contract? It doesn't matter: he'll get one, flaws or not.

David Steele

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Bucs owners show zero patience in their coach, and they're not alone

Burning through a new coach every year or two is no way to build a winner. But too many owners, including Tampa Bay's, haven't learned that yet.

David Steele

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After 10 years, Sean Payton and Saints know there's no place like home

Sean Payton and the Saints have been great to each other, and now they know for sure that they're worth more to each other than to anyone else.

David Steele

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Two coaches later, 49ers' York on the clock to learn his lesson

49ers CEO Jed York says he knows he got a lot wrong the last two years, and won't repeat his mistakes. But why should anyone trust him?

David Steele

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Give Vikings' D a hand for slapping NFC North crown from Rodgers' grasp

Teddy Bridgewater, Cordarelle Patterson and Adrian Peterson kept trying to give the Packers chances to win the division. Their defense kept saying no.

David Steele

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For Broncos, a little bit of Peyton Manning could still be legendary

Peyton Manning could write a storybook ending without being the Manning of old. Beating the Chargers gave a glimpse of how.

David Steele

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Mike Pettine and Ray Farmer go, but Browns' problem is still the owner

No matter who the coach or GM is, the Browns are always a mess. Owner Jimmy Haslam once said he's still learning, but he's not getting it fast enough.

David Steele

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Peyton Manning returns to field for Broncos in Brock Osweiler's place

Peyton Manning is back. He returned to the Broncos lineup in the third quarter of their finale against the Chargers, with the offense having committed five turnovers.

David Steele

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Get your NFC Least jokes out now, because they won't be funny in 2016

What didn't go wrong in the the league's most clownish division? A long list of things that can't help but go better next year — if they're all lucky.

David Steele

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Chip Kelly was wrong for the Eagles all along, and players like LeSean McCoy knew it

It was too easy for the football world to believe Chip Kelly's way was the right way. LeSean McCoy, DeSean Jackson and so many others knew better. Vindication is theirs.

David Steele

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Steelers were team to fear in playoffs, and now could miss them

In an NFL season full of letdowns, the Steelers are just the latest team to blow a golden opportunity. The playoffs are now in doubt because they lost to a 10-loss Ravens team.

David Steele

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Peyton Manning sounds mad, but he doesn't sound innocent yet

The denials by Peyton Manning and his supporters have been angry and emotional, but not much more than that. There are better reasons to believe the report instead.

David Steele

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Baltimore play takes 'Concussion' topic even deeper, with help of ex-NFL star

Before "Concussion" hit theaters, "X's and O's" hit the stage. One of its stars, ex-49er Dwight Hicks, wants you to see both and get a bigger picture.

David Steele

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Don't sleep on the Chiefs, who continue to roll without Justin Houston

The Chiefs stretched their winning streak to eight by thumping the Ravens, and showed again that their defense can survive without injured pass rusher Justin Houston.

David Steele

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Ravens burn Chiefs at end of half with Hail Mary

The Ravens caught the Chiefs napping on the last play of the first half, and Jimmy Clausen and Kamar Aiken made them pay with a 48-yard Hail Mary.

David Steele

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Fake punt fail: Ravens' Koch come up short, and Chiefs cash in

Teams that are 4-9 have to take risks, but the Ravens' try at a fake punt blew up in their faces, and set up a Chiefs touchdown.

David Steele

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