Bengals Sign DT Dexter Lawrence to One-Year, $28M Extension Defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II completed his physical with the Cincinnati Bengals and has agreed to a one-year, $28 million contract extension, according to the Win Sports Group, which shared the news with ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Sunday. The deal, which was finalized after Lawrence passed his medical exam, ensures he will remain with the Bengals through the 2025 season. The move marks the first time in the Bengals’ history they have traded a top-10 draft pick for a player since the common draft era began in 1966. Lawrence, 28, was acquired by the Bengals in a trade with the New York Giants for the No. 10 overall pick in this year’s NFL draft. The Giants had reached an impasse with Lawrence over a new contract, prompting him to request a trade after seven seasons with New York. The Giants, who now hold the rights to the No. 5 and No. 10 first-round picks, finalized the deal to move on from Lawrence, who had been a key part of their defense but had grown frustrated with the lack of progress in negotiations. Lawrence’s extension with Cincinnati comes as the Bengals aim to bolster their defense, which struggled during the 2024 season. The team missed the playoffs for the third consecutive year, and general manager Duke Tobin emphasized the importance of Lawrence’s role in their plans. “Dexter fits the vision we have on our defense and will also elevate others around him,” Tobin said in a statement. “We are confident in Dexter and can’t wait to see the positive effects he and the other players we have acquired this offseason have on our football team. We are excited to turn to the draft and our remaining picks to further enhance our team.#new_york_giants #adam_schefter #cincinnati_bengals #dexter_lawrence #win_sports_group
Calais Campbell Reunites with Ravens for 19th NFL Season Veteran defensive end Calais Campbell, who previously played for the Baltimore Ravens from 2020 to 2022, has signed a one-year contract with the team, according to a source shared with ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The deal marks Campbell’s return to the Ravens, where he will enter his 19th season in the NFL. The 40-year-old player will turn 40 on September 1, making this his longest tenure in the league to date. Campbell’s recent season with the Arizona Cardinals saw him exceed expectations, logging 643 snaps—surpassing the team’s initial target for his workload. Despite the increased playing time, he maintained strong performance, appearing in all 17 games. His output included 6.5 sacks, matching his highest single-season total since 2018 when he recorded 10.5 sacks with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Additionally, he contributed two passes defended, 43 tackles (nine for loss), and 16 quarterback hits. Beyond his on-field production, Campbell’s leadership was a key asset for the Cardinals. Drafted in the second round by Arizona in 2008, he spent his first nine seasons with the team and became a mentor to the defensive line. His guidance extended to both rookies, such as 2025 first-round pick Walter Nolen III, and veteran players like Dalvin Tomlinson. His influence was widely recognized within the organization, highlighting his role as a cornerstone of the defensive unit. Campbell’s decision to return for a 19th season came after contemplating retirement. However, his commitment to the game and desire to continue competing led him to re-sign with the Ravens. The move reunites him with a team that has a history of valuing his experience and contributions.#baltimore_ravens #arizona_cardinals #adam_schefter #calais_campbell #walter_nolen_iii
Bengals Sign Safety Kyle Dugger to One-Year Contract The Cincinnati Bengals have finalized a one-year agreement with safety Kyle Dugger, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The move marks the team’s effort to bolster its secondary ahead of the 2025 season. Dugger, 30, will join the Bengals after spending the second half of the 2024 season with the Pittsburgh Steelers. During his time with Pittsburgh, he started nine games and contributed significantly to the defense, recording 42 total tackles, five passes defensed, and two interceptions. Dugger’s journey to the Bengals began with his tenure in New England. A second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, he spent his first five-plus seasons with the New England Patriots, where he became a key rotational player. Over his career, Dugger has appeared in 90 games, with 78 starts, and has accumulated 11 interceptions and 29 passes defensed. His ability to read the game and make plays in critical moments has made him a reliable option for teams seeking defensive depth. The Bengals’ decision to sign Dugger reflects their strategy to address weaknesses in their secondary. While the team has a strong foundation with players like Jessie Bates III and Tre Flowers, adding Dugger provides flexibility and competition. His experience in both the Patriots’ and Steelers’ systems could help him adapt quickly to Cincinnati’s defensive schemes. Dugger’s trade to the Steelers in the offseason was a notable move, as he had been with the Patriots for nearly six years. The trade allowed him to gain more playing time and showcase his skills in a different system. His performance with Pittsburgh, particularly his ability to step into a starting role, has positioned him as a valuable free agent for teams looking to strengthen their defense.#new_england_patriots #adam_schefter #pittsburgh_steers #cincinnati_bengals #kyle_dugger
Former Bills DE AJ Epenesa Signs One-Year Deal with Browns Former Buffalo Bills defensive end AJ Epenesa is set to sign a one-year contract with the Cleveland Browns, according to a source shared with ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Wednesday. The deal, which could be worth up to $5 million, marks Epenesa’s return to the NFL after spending his entire six-year career with the Bills. Epenesa, 27, was selected in the second round of the 2020 NFL draft by Buffalo and became a consistent presence on the team’s defensive line. Over his NFL career, he has appeared in 91 games, starting 19 of them. Known for his ability to disrupt opposing offenses, Epenesa has accumulated 24 sacks in his career. However, his production dipped in 2025, as he recorded just 2.5 sacks in 16 games, compared to 19 sacks over the previous three seasons. Despite the decline in sack numbers, Epenesa has remained a threat through his arm usage. He has registered 14 batted passes and four interceptions throughout his career, including two in 2025. His ability to disrupt quarterbacks has also translated to the postseason, where he has played in 14 games. While he has yet to record a sack in the playoffs, Epenesa has contributed with three quarterback hits and three batted passes. The move to the Browns represents a new chapter for Epenesa, who has spent his entire NFL career with the Bills. The deal comes as the Browns look to bolster their defensive line, adding depth and experience to a unit that has seen significant changes in recent years. Epenesa’s versatility and ability to impact games through both sacks and pass-rushing techniques make him a valuable addition to the team’s roster. ESPN’s Alaina Getzenberg contributed to this report.#buffalo_bills #espn #adam_schefter #cleveland_browns #aj_epenesa
NFL Free Agency: Dolphins WR Nick Westbrook-Ikhine Signs With Colts The Indianapolis Colts have added wide receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine to their roster, marking his return to the NFL after being released by the Miami Dolphins earlier this offseason. The move comes as the Colts seek to bolster their receiving corps following the trade of Michael Pittman, their former standout wideout. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Westbrook-Ikhine has signed with the Colts, positioning him to contribute to a team looking to strengthen its offensive options. The 28-year-old receiver, who played collegiately at Indiana from 2015 to 2019, joined the Tennessee Titans as an undrafted free agent in 2020. After five seasons with the Titans, he signed a two-year deal with the Dolphins in 2024. Westbrook-Ikhine’s 2025 season with the Dolphins was his least productive in recent years. In 15 games, he recorded just 11 receptions for 89 yards, a significant drop from his earlier career output. His performance marked a return to the struggles he faced during his rookie season with the Titans, when he caught only three passes for 33 yards. The Dolphins’ decision to cut him in February reflects concerns about his consistency and impact on the field. Now, with the Colts offering a fresh opportunity, Westbrook-Ikhine aims to reestablish himself in the league. The AFC South remains a competitive division, and his ability to contribute in key moments could be crucial for Indianapolis as it navigates the 2026 season. The Dolphins, meanwhile, face the challenge of addressing multiple roster gaps after releasing Westbrook-Ikhine and other players during the early stages of free agency.#indianapolis_colts #miami_dolphins #adam_schefter #afc_south #nick_westbrookikhine
Free agent D.J. Wonnum signs one-year deal with Detroit Lions Free agent defensive end D.J. Wonnum has agreed to a one-year contract with the Detroit Lions, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The deal is worth up to $6 million and marks Wonnum’s return to the NFL after a two-year stint with the Carolina Panthers. Wonnum joined the Panthers in 2023 but did not make an impact during his time with the team. He was sidelined for much of the 2024 season due to a quad injury sustained while playing for the Minnesota Vikings in 2023. The injury limited his playing time, and he was only able to record four sacks during the 2024 campaign despite starting all 15 games. His lack of production stood out, especially given the Panthers’ struggles on defense. The team ranked near the bottom of the NFL in sacks and quarterback pressures, and Wonnum’s contributions were minimal. This made him a potential trade asset, as the Panthers would have had to pay him $825,000 in dead money if they re-signed him. Wonnum was selected by the Vikings in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Over his six seasons with the team, he recorded 30 career sacks, including eight in both 2021 and 2023. His departure from Carolina signals a move to a new opportunity with the Lions, where he aims to regain his form and contribute more effectively. ESPN’s David Newton contributed to this report.#minnesota_vikings #detroit_lions #carolina_panthers #adam_schefter #d_j_wonnum
Raiders Sign Colts Free Agent Segun Olubi The Las Vegas Raiders have signed linebacker Segun Olubi, a free agent who previously played for the Indianapolis Colts. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported the move, though details of the contract have not been disclosed. Olubi, who spent three seasons with the Colts, is now set to join the Raiders for the 2026 NFL season. Olubi became an unrestricted free agent after the Colts non-tendered him, a decision that allowed him to pursue opportunities with other teams. During his time with the Colts, he was a key contributor on special teams, playing over 300 snaps in each of the past three seasons. His role on special teams was consistent, with him participating in multiple phases of the game regularly. Defensively, Olubi’s playing time was limited. According to Pro Football Focus, he totaled just 142 career defensive snaps, with 115 of those coming in 2023. His defensive contributions were minimal compared to his special teams impact. The Colts’ linebacker corps has faced challenges this offseason, particularly after the trade of Zaire Franklin. The team’s most experienced linebacker at the position is Jaylon Carlies, who has accumulated just over 200 career defensive snaps. This lack of depth has left the Colts with a significant need at the position, prompting general manager Chris Ballard to prioritize addressing the linebacker room. Olubi’s departure from Indianapolis highlights the competitive nature of free agency, as teams like the Raiders saw an opportunity to bolster their roster. The Colts’ decision to non-tender him may have been a strategic move to manage salary cap space, but it left them without a reliable option at the linebacker position.#las_vegas_raiders #indianapolis_colts #adam_schefter #segun_olubi #chris_ballard
Las Vegas Raiders Sign Former Colts LB Segun Olubi The Las Vegas Raiders have officially signed former Indianapolis Colts linebacker Segun Olubi, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The 26-year-old player, standing 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 233 pounds, brings four seasons of NFL experience to the team. During his time with the Colts, Olubi recorded 50 total tackles, two forced fumbles, and one interception across 51 career games. Olubi will serve as a depth player and key contributor on special teams for the Raiders. A former undrafted prospect from San Diego State, he is known for his speed, highlighted by a 4.45 40-yard dash time. His athleticism was recently showcased when he blocked a punt by AJ Cole during a game against the Raiders in 2025. Raiders public relations highlighted additional details about Olubi’s performance: in 2025, he tallied 11 total tackles and one forced fumble on special teams, joining an elite group of 13 NFL players who achieved 10+ tackles and a forced fumble in that category. Since the 2023 season, he has accumulated 21 solo special teams tackles, ranking ninth in the league. Over his time with the Colts from 2022 to 2025, he recorded 30 total special teams tackles, the highest on the team during that period. Raiders special teams coordinator Joe DeCamillis expressed enthusiasm about the addition, noting Olubi’s potential to strengthen the unit. Olubi himself shared his excitement for joining the team, stating, “What’s up Raider Nation, super excited to get to work man. I love it out here, it’s a beautiful place. Time to do it.” Raiders general manager John Spytek emphasized an open-minded approach to free agency, aiming to build a competitive roster.#las_vegas_raiders #indianapolis_colts #adam_schefter #segun_olubi #john_spytek
Chicago Bears Re-Sign Cornerback Jaylon Jones to One-Year Deal The Chicago Bears have re-signed cornerback Jaylon Jones to a one-year contract, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The move comes after the team claimed Jones off waivers in August 2025. Last season, Jones appeared in 15 games, starting one, and recorded 16 tackles along with a forced fumble. The Bears originally signed Jones in 2022 after he went undrafted, and he spent three seasons with the team, making 41 appearances and starting five games. Following the 2024 season, Jones became a free agent and joined the Arizona Cardinals, but he did not make their final roster and returned to Chicago. The Bears’ pass defense struggled during the 2025 season, allowing 227.2 passing yards per game, which ranked 22nd in the NFL. Jones’ re-signing is part of the team’s efforts to strengthen its secondary ahead of the 2026 season. The Bears also added defensive back Coby Bryant and linebacker Devin Bush with three-year deals this week. General manager Ryan Poles highlighted the common thread among the new signings, emphasizing the team’s focus on speed, explosiveness, and leadership. Poles stated, “We wanted to get faster and more explosive, and I know we did that. We want guys that are passionate about football, that play our style and our brand of football, and I know we did that. And then especially the leadership, [we wanted] to continue to enhance our roster so that we can continue to push forward [and] be a championship-caliber team. I know we got better through this phase.” He added that the team’s postseason performance and late-season play underscored the need for quicker coverage, and the new additions addressed that gap. “Watching those guys’ tape, we answered that,” Poles concluded.#chicago_bears #arizona_cardinals #adam_schefter #jaylon_jones #ryan_poles
Bears Re-Signing CB Jaylon Jones The Chicago Bears are re-signing cornerback Jaylon Jones to a one-year contract, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. The move comes after Jones spent the 2025 season with the team, appearing in 15 games and contributing with 16 tackles and a forced fumble. Jones, 28, was initially undrafted in the 2022 NFL Draft after playing college football at Mississippi. He joined the Bears as an undrafted free agent and signed a three-year rookie contract with the team. Following his rookie season, Jones was released by the Bears in 2023 but returned to the organization in 2024. During that time, he signed a one-year, $1.2 million deal with the Arizona Cardinals in free agency. However, he was waived by Arizona during the preseason and subsequently claimed off waivers by the Bears. The Bears’ decision to re-sign Jones appears to be a strategic move to retain his experience and contributions on the defensive backfield. His performance in 2025, despite limited playing time, suggests he remains a valuable asset for the team as they prepare for the 2026 season. Other notable signings in the NFL include the Washington Commanders re-signing guard Chris Paul, the Cleveland Browns adding defensive lineman Kalia Davis on a one-year deal, and the New York Jets retaining safety Andre Cisco. The Pittsburgh Steelers have also signed defensive lineman Sebastian Joseph-Day, while the Detroit Lions have added cornerback Roger McCreary. The Miami Dolphins are reportedly bringing back edge rusher David Ojabo. These signings reflect teams’ efforts to solidify their rosters ahead of the 2026 NFL season, with many focusing on adding depth and experience to their defensive units.#chicago_bears #nfl #adam_schefter #jaylon_jones #2026_nfl_season
Titans to Release CB L’Jarius Sneed The Tennessee Titans are parting ways with veteran cornerback L’Jarius Sneed, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The move marks the end of a two-year stint with the team, during which Sneed faced significant challenges due to recurring injuries. The 29-year-old player, who was acquired in a trade in 2024, will not be retained for the 2026 season. Sneed joined the Titans after a successful two-year run with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he contributed to their 2023 Super Bowl victory. However, his time with Tennessee has been limited by health issues. Over the past two seasons, he played in just 12 games combined, with only seven contests available in 2025. During that span, Sneed recorded 26 total tackles and three passes defensed. The Titans’ decision to release Sneed comes with financial implications. The team will save $11.4 million in salary cap space for 2026, though they will face an $8.1 million dead cap charge. Additionally, the move will free up $16.4 million in cap space for 2027, with a $4.1 million dead cap charge. These figures reflect the long-term financial impact of releasing a player with a multi-year contract. Sneed’s career has been defined by his defensive prowess. Drafted in the fourth round in 2020, he has accumulated 43 passes defensed and 10 interceptions across 69 NFL games. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses made him a valuable asset during his peak years, though injuries have hampered his consistency. The Titans’ decision underscores the team’s focus on addressing their defensive needs through more reliable options. With Sneed’s release, the club will likely explore other avenues to bolster its secondary, particularly as they aim to compete in the league’s increasingly competitive landscape.#kansas_city_chiefs #adam_schefter #tennessee_titans #l_jarius_sneed #super_bowl_2023
Indianapolis Colts Add Veteran Safety Jonathan Owens to Strengthen Depth The Indianapolis Colts have signed veteran free agent Jonathan Owens to bolster their safety depth ahead of the 2026 season. The move comes as the team looks to address a lack of experience at the position following the departure of Nick Cross to the Washington Commanders. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Colts have finalized a one-year contract with Owens, though specific terms have not been disclosed. Owens, a 28-year-old safety, brings versatility and experience to the roster. Over his seven-year NFL career, he has appeared in 82 games, including 35 starts. His journey has included stints with the Houston Texans from 2019 to 2022, followed by a two-year tenure with the Chicago Bears and a single season with the Green Bay Packers. In 2024, his first season with the Bears, Owens played in five games and contributed 427 defensive snaps. Last season, he was primarily utilized on special teams, though he has remained active in that role throughout his career. Owens’ defensive contributions have been most notable in recent years. From 2022 to 2023, he started 28 games, with a majority of his snaps coming as a deep safety—a role previously filled by Cam Bynum. PFF data highlights his experience playing both free safety and in the box, though his primary role has been as a deep coverage player. The Colts’ decision to sign him suggests they see value in his ability to provide depth and flexibility, even if his immediate impact is uncertain. Owens’ career totals include two interceptions, 10 pass deflections, two forced fumbles, and 295 total tackles. While his production has not been consistently high, his durability and adaptability across different defensive schemes make him a potential asset.#chicago_bears #indianapolis_colts #adam_schefter #jonathan_owens #houston_texas
Atlanta Falcons Add High-Upside Free Agent Edge Rusher FLOWERY BRANCH – The Atlanta Falcons have signed edge rusher Samson Ebukam in free agency, according to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The terms of the deal are not yet disclosed, though his previous contract averaged $8 million annually. The Falcons’ new agreement is expected to be in the range of $5-6 million. Ebukam, who will turn 31 before the 2025 season begins, has been a consistent starter in the NFL for the past eight seasons. His career took a significant turn in 2023 when he joined the Indianapolis Colts, where he recorded 9.5 sacks in 16 games. However, he suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon during training camp and missed the entire 2024 season. In 2025, Ebukam returned but played in just 14 games (one start), tallying 2.0 sacks. The 31-year-old edge rusher was originally selected in the fourth round (No. 125 overall) by the Los Angeles Rams in 2017. He started as a reserve behind Robert Quinn but took over the role by his second season. Over four years with the Rams, he appeared in 64 games (35 starts), accumulating 150 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, 14.0 sacks, six forced fumbles, one interception, four fumble recoveries, and one touchdown return. After his time with the Rams, Ebukam signed a $12 million contract with the San Francisco 49ers in 2021. There, he started 26 games over two seasons, posting 9.5 sacks. His performance with the 49ers marked a strong chapter in his career. For the Falcons, Ebukam’s addition provides immediate depth and rotational potential. He joins a pass rush that set a franchise record for sacks in 2025 but will face the challenge of replacing several key contributors.#indianapolis_colts #los_angeles_rams #atlanta_falcons #adam_schefter #samson_ebukam
Atlanta Falcons Set to Sign Edge Rusher Samson Ebukam in Free Agency The Atlanta Falcons are anticipated to finalize a free agency deal with edge rusher Samson Ebukam, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The team has already reached an agreement with Azeez Ojulari, and Ebukam’s addition would bolster the Falcons’ defensive line for the 2026 NFL season. Ebukam, a fourth-round draft pick, has played in 111 games across eight NFL seasons, accumulating 314 tackles (198 solo), 35 sacks, 77 quarterback hits, and 11 forced fumbles. His most productive season came in 2023 with the Indianapolis Colts, where he recorded a career-high 9.5 sacks. However, he suffered a torn Achilles in 2024, leading to his absence for the entire season. Ebukam returned in 2025 but struggled to replicate his previous performance, tallying just two sacks in 14 games (one start) for the Colts. The Falcons are likely offering him a one-year contract to prove his value, though the exact terms remain undisclosed until the deal is officially announced. The team’s need for edge rushers has intensified due to the uncertain future of James Pearce Jr., who faces five felony charges. Pearce’s legal situation remains unresolved, leaving the Falcons in search of reliable pass-rushing options. The Falcons’ free agency efforts are being closely followed through a dedicated tracker, which details all transactions related to the 2026 NFL season. This move underscores the team’s focus on strengthening its defensive front to compete in the upcoming campaign.#indianapolis_colts #atlanta_falcons #adam_schefter #james_pearce_jr #samson_ebukam
Atlanta Falcons Sign Former Colts DE Samson Ebukam The Atlanta Falcons have finalized a contract with former Indianapolis Colts defensive end Samson Ebukam, according to his agent, Cameron Foster, who confirmed the deal to ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Thursday. Ebukam, 30, had struggled to regain his previous form during the 2024 season with the Colts, as his recovery from a torn Achilles injury progressed more slowly than anticipated. Despite the setback, Ebukam managed to contribute in limited playing time, recording two sacks—a career low—while also posting five tackles for losses and 22 solo tackles. These numbers placed him among the top performers on the Colts’ defensive line, even though he played just 43% of the team’s defensive snaps. Ebukam’s performance this season marked a departure from his standout 2023 campaign, during which he recorded a career-high 10 sacks. The injury and subsequent rehabilitation process hindered his ability to maintain that level of production. However, his ability to generate pressure and make plays in key moments highlighted his value as a defensive end. The Falcons’ decision to sign Ebukam suggests they see potential in his experience and physical tools, despite the challenges he faced in 2024. A 2017 fourth-round pick by the Los Angeles Rams, Ebukam has spent eight seasons in the NFL, accumulating 35 sacks, 11 forced fumbles, and six fumble recoveries throughout his career. His versatility as a pass-rusher and ability to disrupt opposing offenses have made him a reliable asset for teams looking to bolster their defensive line. While his 2024 season with the Colts was marred by injury, his track record of production and resilience indicates he could still be a valuable addition to the Falcons’ roster.#indianapolis_colts #atlanta_falcons #adam_schefter #samson_ebukam #cameron_foster
Dolphins to sign WR Tutu Atwell, CB Marco Wilson The Miami Dolphins have finalized deals with wide receiver Tutu Atwell and cornerback Marco Wilson, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The signings were announced on Thursday afternoon as part of the team’s efforts to bolster its roster ahead of the 2026 season. Atwell, 26, was selected in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Rams. Over his first five seasons with the team, he played in 10 games in 2025, recording six receptions for 192 yards and one touchdown. Throughout his career, Atwell has appeared in 64 games, including 27 starts, and has totaled 105 catches for 1,535 yards with five touchdowns. Wilson, 27, joined the Cincinnati Bengals in 2025 but appeared in only four games during the season. A fourth-round pick in 2021, Wilson has accumulated 20 passes defensed and three interceptions across 64 career games. His experience as a defensive back could provide depth to the Dolphins’ secondary. The moves are part of a broader offseason overhaul for the Dolphins, who aim to strengthen their receiving corps and defensive backfield. Atwell’s ability to stretch the field and Wilson’s playmaking skills on the backend are seen as valuable additions. Schefter’s report highlights the Dolphins’ active pursuit of free agents to address key areas of need. The signings underscore the team’s commitment to improving its roster ahead of the upcoming season, with both players expected to contribute immediately. The Dolphins’ front office has emphasized the importance of adding versatile talent that can adapt to different schemes, and both Atwell and Wilson fit that profile. Their arrivals signal a strategic shift toward building a more balanced and competitive team for the 2026 campaign.#los_angeles_rams #miami_dolphins #adam_schefter #tutu_atwell #marco_wilson
Miami Dolphins Add Veteran Wide Receiver Tutu Atwell in 2026 Free Agency The Miami Dolphins have finalized a one-year contract with wide receiver Tutu Atwell during the 2026 NFL free agency period, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The deal marks the Dolphins’ latest addition as they continue to bolster their roster with experienced talent. Atwell, a 27-year-old native of Miami, will join the team after spending the past five seasons with the Los Angeles Rams. Atwell, who played college football at Louisville, was selected in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft and has since become a key contributor for the Rams. Over his five-year tenure with the team, he has appeared in 64 games, starting 27 of them. His career totals include 105 receptions for 1,535 yards and five touchdowns. The 2024 season marked a career milestone for Atwell, as he set personal bests with 42 receptions and 562 receiving yards. Despite his strong performance in 2024, Atwell’s 2025 season was limited to just 10 games due to injury. During that time, he recorded six receptions for 192 yards and a touchdown. After the Rams released him, Atwell signed a one-year, $10 million contract with the team, but the deal was short-lived. The Dolphins’ new agreement with Atwell will serve as his next opportunity to contribute at the professional level. The Dolphins’ contract with Atwell is structured as a one-year deal, with no additional compensation reported. This approach aligns with the team’s strategy of acquiring veteran players on short-term contracts to add depth and experience without long-term financial commitments. Atwell’s arrival is expected to provide the Dolphins with a reliable target in the passing game, particularly as they aim to strengthen their offensive capabilities for the upcoming season.#los_angeles_rams #miami_dolphins #adam_schefter #louisville #tutu_atwell
Miami Dolphins Sign Wide Receiver Tutu Atwell to One-Year Contract The Miami Dolphins have agreed to a one-year deal with free agent wide receiver Tutu Atwell, according to a source shared with ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Thursday. The move marks a return to his hometown, as Atwell was born and raised in Miami. Atwell, a second-round draft pick in 2021, spent the first five seasons of his NFL career with the Los Angeles Rams. Last season, he signed a one-year, $10 million contract with the Rams but saw limited playing time. He recorded just six catches for 192 yards and a touchdown in 2025. His playing time was affected by a hamstring injury and the Rams’ shift toward using more 13 personnel (three tight ends on the field) under head coach Sean McVay, which reduced opportunities for wide receivers. Despite the challenges, Atwell had a standout moment during the 2025 season. In Week 4 against the Indianapolis Colts, he made an 88-yard catch-and-run down the sideline for a touchdown, giving the Rams a crucial lead with less than two minutes remaining in the game. Over his six seasons with the Rams, he totaled 105 receptions for 1,535 yards and five touchdowns in 64 regular-season games. The Dolphins’ decision to sign Atwell comes as they look to bolster their receiving corps. His experience and track record of producing in key moments could provide value, even as he faces adjustments to a new system and potential role changes. ESPN’s Sarah Barshop contributed to this report.#los_angeles_rams #miami_dolphins #adam_schefter #tutu_atwell #sean_mcvey
Vikings to Release Javon Hargrave The Minnesota Vikings are set to release defensive tackle Javon Hargrave, according to a report from Adam Schefter of ESPN. The decision, which was first mentioned earlier this month, marks the end of Hargrave’s two-year contract with the team. The move will free up approximately $11 million in salary cap space, though nearly $10.5 million will remain as dead money due to the terms of his contract. Hargrave, who signed with the Vikings in 2023, played in 16 games for the team last season. During that time, he recorded 52 tackles, 3.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. His contributions were part of a defensive unit that faced challenges throughout the season, but his performance highlighted his value as a rotational player. The Vikings’ decision to part ways with Hargrave comes as the team looks to manage its salary cap and reshape its roster for the upcoming season. While running back Aaron Jones has confirmed he will remain with the team, Hargrave’s release signals a shift in the organization’s priorities. The move also underscores the financial complexities of free agency, as teams often balance the need to reduce cap commitments with the potential long-term impact of dead money. Schefter’s report suggests that the Vikings have been actively considering this move for several weeks, indicating that the decision was not made hastily. The timing of the release may also align with the team’s broader strategy to address other areas of need, particularly in the defensive line. With the 2025 NFL season approaching, the Vikings’ management is likely focused on making adjustments that could improve their competitiveness in the league.#minnesota_vikings #nfl #adam_schefter #salary_cap #javon_hargrave
Vikings to Release Javon Hargrave on Wednesday The Minnesota Vikings are set to cut ties with Javon Hargrave on Wednesday, marking the first day of the new NFL league year, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The move comes as the Green Bay Packers, seeking defensive line reinforcements, aim to sign Hargrave without triggering an offsetting compensatory draft pick in 2027. This opportunity arises because Hargrave would qualify as a street free agent, having been released rather than allowing his contract to expire naturally. Hargrave, a former defensive lineman under Jonathan Gannon, received a 68 overall grade from Pro Football Focus (PFF) in 2025, placing him 35th among 134 qualifying interior defensive linemen. PFF typically evaluates nose tackles more leniently compared to other interior positions, and Hargrave primarily played the nose tackle role for the Vikings. However, his versatility could make him a valuable asset for the Packers, who may deploy him as a nose tackle in nickel packages. In base defensive schemes, he is likely to function as a 3-4 defensive end, operating as a three-technique player. Despite playing the nose tackle full-time with the Vikings, Hargrave’s role was shaped by Brian Flores’ stunt-heavy system, which does not traditionally demand nose tackles to perform as traditional “true nose tackles.” Throughout his career, Hargrave has alternated between nose tackle and three-technique roles, including during his time with the Eagles under Gannon. This adaptability suggests he could seamlessly transition into the Packers’ system, where he might pair with Devonte Wyatt as the team’s starting “ends” in base looks. If signed, Hargrave would address one of two gaps in the Packers’ starting defensive line, leaving the team to focus on finding a dedicated nose tackle.#green_bay_packers #minnesota_vikings #pro_football_focus #adam_schefter #javon_hargrave
