MORE FROM David Steele

Even in defeat vs. Rams, Chiefs' Patrick Mahomes earns notch in gunslinger belt

One can only criticize Patrick Mahomes so much for the Chiefs' epic Monday night loss to the Rams. Has anyone with five turnovers in one game ever glowed as brightly?

David Steele

After Further Review: With Jaguars officially broken, overdue changes are in order

Jacksonville's sixth loss in a row was the worst yet, and it won't get better soon. That and more, including how Alex Smith's broken leg tangles the NFC East and Lamar Jackson doing what he does best, in this week's After Further Review.

David Steele

'Distraught' Maryland players, even in defeat, should be proud after tumultuous season

The mess Maryland made of itself in Jordan McNair's death put a load on the players' shoulders. They nearly carried it all the way through an epic upset of Ohio State in their final home game.

David Steele

Week 11 NFL picks straight up: Rams overpower Chiefs; Falcons blow out Cowboys

In our Week 11 NFL picks and predictions, the Rams edge the Chiefs in what could be a Super Bowl preview. Plus, the Falcons dominate the Cowboys in Atlanta for the second consecutive year.

David Steele

After Further Review: Titans, Dion Lewis make Patriots feel the burn

No hard feelings, Dion Lewis? Yes, hard feelings, to go with the thrill of victory over New England. That and more in this week's After Further Review, the biggest takeaways from Week 10 in the NFL.

David Steele

Week 10 NFL picks straight up: Eagles bury Cowboys; Packers handle Dolphins

In our Week 10 NFL picks and predictions, Philadelphia ruins any chance Dallas still has in the NFC East race. Plus, Green Bay bounces back at home against Miami.

David Steele

Week 9 NFL picks straight up: Rams dodge Saints; Lions beat Vikings

In our Week 9 NFL picks and predictions, undefeated Los Angeles survives yet another scare, this time in New Orleans. Plus, Detroit upsets Minnesota on the road.

David Steele

After Further Review: Saints prove Rams' defense is far from perfect

The Rams spent the offseason loading up their defense, but it turned into a disaster waiting to happen. That and more in this week's After Further Review.

David Steele

Maryland is late doing the right thing with DJ Durkin, so it's still wrong

Maryland's reason for firing DJ Durkin on Wednesday was just as good as the reason the day before — or months before. It gets no credit for doing it late.

David Steele

DJ Durkin disaster reminds Maryland that Big Ten is too big for it

Hiring DJ Durkin three years ago was one of many examples of Maryland — as a university and an athletic department — biting off more than it could chew.

David Steele

At Maryland, no accountability, only shame as DJ Durkin gets absolved

Maryland is letting DJ Durkin try again, and the bar couldn't be any lower: Don't let a player die on your watch. No one in charge paid any serious consequences, so now the entire university is.

David Steele

After Further Review: Eagles eventually will outlast NFC East rivals

The Eagles may be fighting Washington and Dallas, but Philadelphia ended the first half of its season looking more like a champ than it has all year. That and more in this week's After Further Review.

David Steele

Week 8 NFL picks straight up: Saints outscore Vikings; Raiders' chagrin continues

In our NFL picks and predictions for Week 8, New Orleans gets revenge in Minnesota after last season's heartbreaker. Plus, Indianapolis further buries an Oakland team that does not seem interested in contending this year.

David Steele

Lakers' LeBron James, Lonzo Ball find much-needed chemistry with tough road ahead

The Lakers weren't going to finish 0-82 with LeBron James on board, but there were concerns about team chemistry. It all worked in Phoenix, but the Lakers' next test is never far away.

David Steele

After Further Review: Eagles better keep believing the hype

Coach Doug Pederson might think playing the "nobody believes in" the Eagles card will work, but it will not take the heat off his team. That and more in this week's After Further Review.

David Steele

Cardinals' Byron Leftwich is in minority coaching pipeline, but few others are

Last year, Byron Leftwich was one of just two black NFL QB coaches; now he's one of just two who are offensive coordinators. That path to a head-coaching job is mostly blocked.

David Steele

Week 7 NFL picks straight up: Ravens slow down Saints; Jets upset Vikings

In our Week 7 NFL picks and predictions, Baltimore secures a win over New Orleans in a close game. Plus, Minnesota's trip to New York is spoiled by a loss to the Jets.

David Steele

After Further Review: Tom Brady still edging new stars, crushing Father Time

The Patriots-Chiefs showdown lived up to the hype because Tom Brady, all these years later, still wins shootouts with rising stars nearly half his age. That and more in this week's After Further Review.

David Steele

Week 6 NFL picks straight up: Chiefs conquer Patriots; Rams rout Broncos

In our NFL picks and predictions for Week 6, Kansas City overcomes New England on the road to remain undefeated. Plus, speaking of unbeaten teams, Los Angeles keeps it rolling in Denver.

David Steele

Eric Reid, Panthers prove double-threat players can live, win in NFL

Being blackballed did not water down the activism of Eric Reid, and the Carolina locker room is surviving and thriving with him. The NFL survived him, too, but one more protestor is still being shunned.

David Steele

Week 5 NFL picks, predictions: Falcons recover against reeling Steelers; Chiefs, Rams stay perfect

David Steele predicts the Rams and Chiefs will stay perfect in his Week 5 NFL picks.

David Steele

After Further Review: Earl Thomas has no reason to apologize for own emotion

Do not begrudge Earl Thomas for his reason for offering his own sideline a middle-finger salute while being carted off the field in what might be his last game as a Seahawk. That and more in this week's After Further Review.

David Steele

Week 4 NFL picks straight up: Browns win again; Ravens edge Steelers

In our Week 4 NFL picks and predictions, Cleveland actually starts a winning streak with a victory in Oakland. Plus, Baltimore heads to Pittsburgh and spoils the Steelers' newfound promise in the division.

David Steele

Panthers' Eric Reid signing required new blood to wash away old ownership culture

Is there even a tiny chance former Panthers owner Jerry Richardson would have brought Eric Reid to Carolina? David Tepper did, though, bucking the mindset that embraced Richardson but exiled Reid.

David Steele

After Further Review: With Jimmy Garoppolo injury, 'next man up' does not apply for 49ers

Jimmy Garoppolo's injury is the latest reminder, in case there had not been enough lessons about players knowing their worth and understanding their leverage. The QB leaves the 49ers with a hole they can't fill. That and more in this week's After Further Review.

David Steele

Week 3 NFL picks straight up: Buccaneers bury Steelers; Patriots handle Lions

In our Week 3 NFL picks and predictions, red-hot Tampa Bay plays a rude host to a struggling Pittsburgh team. Plus, New England's trip to Detroit results in a comfortable win for the Patriots.

David Steele

After Further Review: Vontae Davis walked out on Bills ... but do you blame him?

A Buffalo player retired at halftime of a game. The entire Washington team seemed to quit before kickoff. Several NFL kickers deserve to be unemployed. That and more in this week's After Further Review.

David Steele

Week 2 NFL picks straight up: Vikings halt Packers; Jaguars overcome Patriots

Our Week 2 NFL picks and predictions feature another close NFC North game in Green Bay. Plus, Jacksonville gets revenge against New England, this time at home against the Patriots.

David Steele

After Further Review: Aaron Rodgers teaches NFL viewers a lesson about value

Still think NFL players are interchangeable, are selfish for wanting their worth and can afford to wait on their paydays? Aaron Rodgers, Khalil Mack and, yes, Le'Veon Bell should've changed your minds in Week 1. That and more in this week's After Further Review.

David Steele

'Fitzmagic' makes Jameis Winston's job security disappear in Bucs' win over Saints

Saying during camp that Ryan Fitzpatrick might keep the Buccaneers' starting QB job after Jameis Winston returns from suspension is one thing. Fitzpatrick laying claim to the job against the Saints is something else.

David Steele

Week 1 NFL picks straight up: Bears stun Packers; Vikings edge 49ers

Our Week 1 NFL picks and predictions feature a stunner in Green Bay. Plus, Philadelphia gets off to a good start at home against Atlanta in the season opener.

David Steele

Maryland players' grief over Jordan McNair not mitigated by Texas upset

Maryland players did not put Jordan McNair aside in the Terrapins' opener against Texas. They kept his memory alive.

David Steele

Texas' bad start — and finish — look all too familiar for Herman, Longhorns

The last thing expected of Texas in the Tom Herman era was to see it run in place. But the Longhorns fell flat against Maryland, again.

David Steele

Adrian Peterson looks like old self, instead of just old, in Washington

Adrian Peterson didn't look washed up, or like he'd been out of work since March. His first game with Washington offered a glimpse of what he once was. Now he has to prove he can keep doing it.

David Steele

As RB position rises from dead, new NFL stars struggling to revive benefits

The likes of Ezekiel Elliott, Todd Gurley and others have proved running backs are not obsolete in the NFL, and Adrian Peterson does not represent the end of an era. But RBs still have short careers and get no respect on the job market.

David Steele

Lamar Jackson ready to move forward, fast, as Ravens meet Rams

Lamar Jackson is thinking less about having won his preseason debut and more about his rookie mistakes. How much the Ravens QB learned will become clear against the Rams on Thursday night.

David Steele

Extra year, extra weapons put Rams QB Jared Goff in driver's seat

Jared Goff enters his second season in coach Sean McVay's offensive system and adds Brandin Cooks to his wealth of supporting talent. The Rams' franchise quarterback is being set up for success.

David Steele

Aaron Donald holdout casts cloud over otherwise positive Rams training camp

Aaron Donald's holdout is the "yeah, but" in every training camp update from coach Sean McVay and Los Angeles players. But, for now, Donald's coaches and teammates are remaining patient.

David Steele

In joint practice, Rams defense proves it's good on more than just paper

If you like the Rams' offense, wait until you see their new, loaded defense. It's still missing Aaron Donald, but when he joins Aqib Talib, Ndamukong Suh and Marcus Peters, the sky will be the limit.

David Steele

Ravens' image, identity still Ray Lewis, even as he enters Hall of Fame

When you think of the Ravens, you still think Ray Lewis ... and the Ravens do, too. Well into retirement, the Hall of Famer is still the face of the franchise.

David Steele

Five teams closest to winning their first Super Bowl

With the Eagles' win in Super Bowl 52, the dungeon of teams that have never won the big game is less crowded. Here are the five teams in best position to escape next.

David Steele

This early in LeSean McCoy investigation, no need for exempt list

LeSean McCoy will be at Bills training camp on time despite still being investigated by police and the NFL. The league has not had to put a player on the exempt list in a while, but it remains an option.

David Steele

As Ravens fast-forward to Lamar Jackson, Joe Flacco feels the heat

After drafting Lamar Jackson and now entering training camp, the Ravens are figuring out whether their quarterback future is now. Joe Flacco is making sure Baltimore remembers he is still here.

David Steele

Bidwill, Cardinals help clarify what NFL really thinks about mixing sports, politics

Yet another NFL team official flexed his muscle behind a Supreme Court nominee. It's another example of the league declaring that the owners make the rules, and the players obey them — period.

David Steele

By NFL standards, Seahawks' Legion of Boom had long run before it busted

With Earl Thomas trade rumors coming on the heels of Kam Chancellor's presumed retirement, the breakup of the Seahawks' secondary is proof that the NFL in this era tears everything down sooner or later.

David Steele

Eagles beware: Carson Wentz's fast track to Week 1 return is risky

Philadelphia seems to have the ambitious rehab of QB Carson Wentz in perspective. Still, the Robert Griffin III fiasco in Washington a few years ago serves as a needed cautionary tale.

David Steele

For D.C. fans and Capitals' long-suffering faithful, the agony is finally over

Of all the demons haunting Washington sports fans in their title drought, none was more haunting than those following the Capitals. It made the redemption for the Caps and Alex Ovechkin even sweeter.

David Steele

Stanley Cup Final 2018: Capitals carrying hopes of championship-starved Washington, D.C.

The Capitals have put their fans through agony, but that's no different than the fans of every other D.C. team since the 1991 Super Bowl. Now the Caps are a win away from ending the drought.

David Steele

Signs, words, actions prove Eagles not shaken by White House snub

Malcolm Jenkins wrote his thoughts down, and his teammate spoke theirs, but their messages Wednesday were the same. Donald Trump's spin on the aborted White House visit is not true ... or their problem.

David Steele

Eagles White House visit: NFL's anthem policy, Trump's words stir the pot

The traditional White House visit that has become contentious with Donald Trump in office has managed to become even more volatile as the Eagles' trip approaches.

David Steele

Ravens have hope after needed changes at wide receiver

Ravens wide receivers made everybody, including Joe Flacco, look bad last season. Will the QB look better throwing to Michael Crabtree, Willie Snead and John Brown?

David Steele

Jack Johnson has been pardoned; now it's time to immortalize him

He's the spiritual father of every defiant black athlete up to the NFL players protesting today. But Jack Johnson's pardon may have removed a major reason he's still remembered.

David Steele

Ravens coach John Harbaugh 'not sitting in judgment' of protests, players

John Harbaugh wondered aloud who gets to decide what is a "respectful" way to freely express one's opinion. The NFL's national anthem policy provides no answer.

David Steele

NFL's new anthem policy: an ominous 'solution' to a problem that didn't exist

The NFL could have (and should have) done nothing about silent gestures during the national anthem. Instead, the league turned peaceful protest into a crime against the sport. Its new anthem policy is not the end.

David Steele

As OTAs arrive, NFL flunks another English test with word 'voluntary'

The NFL dictionary has already claimed more than one player, and it's only May. The pressure to attend voluntary sessions is still strong.

David Steele

NHL playoffs 2018: Capitals fighting own playoff history after series lead vanishes

The Capitals arrived home with a 2-0 series lead; they depart with the baggage of past coughed-up playoff series. They played just well enough in Game 4 to lose a frustrating nailbiter.

David Steele

NHL playoffs 2018: Nicklas Backstrom's return biggest Game 4 question facing Capitals, Lightning

The Lightning woke up from their two-game slumber against the Capitals and looked more like the team favored in the East finals. That could change when, or if, Nicklas Backstrom returns

David Steele

With Andrei Vasilevskiy stopping fall, Lightning begin climb back into East finals vs. Caps

Tampa Bay was in a 2-0 hole as the series moved to Washington. Another loss would have all but finished the Bolts. Goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy, with a little help from his teammates, didn't let it happen.

David Steele

NHL playoffs 2018: Capitals' incessant ability to fill holes has Lightning in deep for Game 3

The Capitals are at home, with a 2-0 lead over the Lightning, and are surviving and thriving without Nicklas Backstrom. The omens are in their favor, so far.

David Steele

NFL loves and hates gambling, and court ruling complicates things

The NFL, which punished players for their Las Vegas activities but also moved a team there, is not going to wrap its arms around the Supreme Court betting ruling that easily.

David Steele

Matt Patricia's 22-year pass is typical NFL, but still doesn't make sense

Think a sexual-assault indictment slips past NFL teams if it's on a prospective player's record, instead of an up-and-coming coach like Matt Patricia? So many people owe so many explanations.

David Steele

Union's Eric Reid grievance hints at more than collusion by NFL, teams

The NFLPA's entry into Eric Reid's possible blackballing is raising questions about what other rules teams are breaking, and with which players, says Sporting News' sports law expert.

David Steele

After first rookie camp, Ravens like Lamar Jackson a lot: 'He’s a naturally talented thrower'

Lamar Jackson made the right first impression on his new coach and teammates, leaving them, and himself, anticipating what all he's capable of doing.

David Steele

Patriots leave NFL Draft without Brady's heir apparent despite rare opportunity

New England clearly is not going to rush the end of Tom Brady's career or its decision on how to replace him. The Patriots could have done it in the 2018 NFL Draft, and they didn't.

David Steele

Mocking way-too-early mock drafts: Everybody whiffed on Baker Mayfield

The perils of presenting an NFL Mock Draft right after a real draft ends are back on display. Everyone was wrong on this year's No. 1 pick. SN's Eric Galko, though, was on target more than once.

David Steele

NFL Draft 2018: Teams set up to kick themselves after rare run on specialists

Suddenly, grabbing kickers and punters became a high priority at the NFL Draft, with teams trading up to get them. Are they worth it all? History isn't on the side of the four teams that made picks.

David Steele

NFL Draft 2018: Colts up front about where trade with Jets beefed up roster

The Colts made a predraft trade with the Jets because they needed players, not a franchise quarterback. Their offensive and defensive lines, plus Andrew Luck, benefited most.

David Steele

NFL Draft 2018: Teams in so-called 'passing league' pass on WRs in Round 1

Why were NFL teams suddenly showing tremendous restraint with the receiver class in Round 1?

David Steele

NFL Draft 2018: Bills will soon learn if they won long game with new QB Josh Allen

The Bills made it clear last year they wanted a new quarterback, and they traded up to get him without breaking the bank. But is Josh Allen worth it?

David Steele

During NFL Draft, believe rumors on Gronk, Dez and others at your own risk

NFL teams are deploying smokescreens on the eve of the draft, so be careful trusting what you hear about whether Rob Gronkowski and others are staying or going.

David Steele

Best, worst of 2018 NFL schedule: Spotlight hits Jaguars, misses Cam Newton

What happened to the 2018 NFL schedule? The Jaguars are suddenly the team to watch, while Cam Newton and the Panthers are barely seen in prime time.

David Steele

Larissa Boyce, victim of Larry Nassar, refuses to stay silent on culture protecting molesters

Larissa Boyce will not let anyone ever forget that Larry Nassar could have been stopped when she reported him 21 years ago.

David Steele

Dez Bryant rumors: Eric Weddle 'reached out' to sell WR on Ravens

Eric Weddle acknowledged Tuesday that he is recruiting Dez Bryant to sign in Baltimore, where he says the wide receiver can get the respect and appreciation he has been missing.

David Steele

Robert Kraft's Meek Mill visit puts both of NFL owners' two faces on display

As admirable as Robert Kraft's prison trip to visit Meek Mill was, it also exposed NFL owners' double standard on the issues that inspired players to kneel during the national anthem.

David Steele

Bengals don't bungle message to Eric Reid, protestors: No kneeling, or else

Eric Reid got the message. So did every other NFL player who ever did or ever might think about protesting. And it was Mike Brown and the Cincinnati Bengals who sent it. Go figure.

David Steele

Ravens signing RGIII does not make backup QB spot less complicated

The Ravens are taking a risk with Robert Griffin III, a dangerous one with Joe Flacco's play and health both shaky as of late. At least Baltimore handled things better than it did last offseason.

David Steele

Rule out a Rob Gronkowski trade from Patriots at your own risk

Rob Gronkowski trade rumors should be put to rest as New England sends other pass-catchers packing, right? Wrong, SN's David Steele writes. Guessing what the Patriots will do around the draft is foolish.

David Steele

'Not a quitter': Su'a Cravens' Broncos career starts with image rehab

As Su'a Cravens arrives in Denver via trade, he must convince everybody he truly wants to continue his abruptly interrupted NFL career. The Broncos seem to have a player with a new perspective.

David Steele

Lamar Jackson is a QB only, and everybody understands ... or do they?

Lamar Jackson at his Pro Day reinforced the point that he has no desire to feed the notion that he could play wide receiver in the NFL. Regardless, four weeks before the draft, it's still being debated.

David Steele

As Seahawks purge roster, they purge their identity, too

What happened to the Seahawks we used to know? Every move Seattle makes, including dealing with a backup QB's domestic-violence problem, shows that it's turning into just another NFL team.

David Steele

Players Coalition agrees: Eric Reid, Colin Kaepernick out of work for being 'outspoken'

Eric Reid and Colin Kaepernick may be acting separately from the Players Coalition, but Devin McCourty told Sporting News it's clear the two former 49ers are suffering the consequences of protesting.

David Steele

Players Coalition flexes advocacy muscles at Harvard, state house

By actively engaging in changing laws and policies, the Players Coalition has showed again that they were doing more than protesting at games and getting owners to open their checkbooks.

David Steele

Ravens say their hands are clean on Ryan Grant physical, Michael Crabtree interest

Ravens president Ozzie Newsome denies that anything shady went on with Ryan Grant suddenly flunking his physical just as Michael Crabtree became an option.

David Steele

NFL quarterback market is anybody but Colin Kaepernick — again

Colin Kaepernick is a year older, in the midst of a collusion case and no closer to being signed to an NFL roster than he was last year. But Mike Glennon has another job. And Tom Savage. And Chase Daniel.

David Steele

NFL free agency: Five potential landing spots for Tyrann Mathieu

The Cardinals' loss can be a contender's gain, and there is no shortage of teams that will contend if they sign Tyrann Mathieu, who was released Wednesday.

David Steele

NFL free agency: Titans issue loud warning to rest of AFC, division

The Titans had a sneaky-good start to NFL free agency, as GM Jon Robinson made splashes by luring Malcolm Butler and Dion Lewis away from his former employer.

David Steele

NFL free agency: Eagles rebound from disastrous 2015 class under Chip Kelly

How deep a hole did the eventual Super Bowl champion Eagles have to climb out of? Look back at their free-agent moves of 2015, the year Chip Kelly was in charge.

David Steele

NFL free agency lesson from Suh, Murray, others: Only guarantees matter

Did you really need to learn again about those big, splashy NFL free-agent contract announcements? Ndamukong Suh's three years in Miami tells all ... or tells half.

David Steele

Jones-Goodell settlement means NFL owners can focus on common enemy — the players

Why squabble with each other when there are players to strong-arm, instead? Jerry Jones, Roger Goodell and the NFL owners can now focus on their natural enemy.

David Steele

With Eagles, Michael Bennett is where he belongs, not where he no longer fits in

The Eagles embrace a player with gas in his tank, fire in his belly about speaking out ... and a hefty contract. That keeps them ahead of Michael Bennett's old team on all counts.

David Steele

Protest planted seeds for U.S. women's hockey gold, will keep flowering later

Less than a year after nearly boycotting for better treatment, the U.S. women's hockey players are celebrating two groundbreaking wins, on and off the ice.

David Steele

Alex Ovechkin making it easy to take another brilliant season for granted

Alex Ovechkin is hard to overlook, and so is the season he's having and the career milestone he's approaching. But in his 13th year, the Capitals superstar isn't getting the Hart love he deserves.

David Steele

Outdoors, at Navy, without Auston Matthews, Maple Leafs get in over their heads

The Leafs' ship sank in a Stadium Series rout by the Capitals, and their downfall went far beyond missing their best young player.

David Steele

NHL Stadium Series 2018: Newcomer Plekanec gives Matthews-less Leafs breathing room in stretch run

Tomas Plekanec arrives at an important time for the Maple Leafs: while they're riding out Auston Matthews' absence and gearing up to catch the Lightning and Bruins.

David Steele

NHL Stadium Series 2018: Wind rattling outdoor game at Naval Academy, but hasn't blown it off schedule

The NHL, the Maple Leafs and Capitals are all preparing as if Saturday night's outdoor game will not be shut down by weather. Affecting play is another question.

David Steele

Think you know cream of 2018 QB draft class? History says you're wrong

The fates of quarterbacks from a recent NFL Draft class are lessons to all who believe they have the likes of Josh Rosen, Baker Mayfield, Sam Darnold, Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson figured out.

David Steele

LeBron James' platform can't be torn down by Fox News hosts — or anyone else

Slander him, insult him, try to erase him. But LeBron James earned his platform, picked his lanes and still gets to use them all however and whenever he pleases.

David Steele

Sebastian Janikowski kept career, Raiders legacy alive and kicking after shaky start

Sebastian Janikowski always kicked them long, but he didn't always stay on the straight path. Once he did, though, he carved out a unmatched career.

David Steele

Andrew Luck's prime still trickling away between injury and Colts' chaos

Never mind Josh McDaniels, Chris Ballard or whether the rivalry is "back on." Where do the Colts' coaching shenanigans leave Andrew Luck and his stalled career?

David Steele

Protests a 'distraction'? No for Eagles, still yes for NFL

The way the Eagles expressed their views and still won a Super Bowl will not make the issue of social activism go away. For example, Colin Kaepernick is still unemployed.

David Steele

Why Saints will win Super Bowl 53 in Atlanta

Sporting News is not wasting any time in making its initial prediction for the winner of Super Bowl 53 next year. Here is why the Saints are the pick.

David Steele

Patriots benching Malcolm Butler among worst coaching mistakes in Super Bowl history

If Bill Belichick's inexplicable decision to sit Malcolm Butler against the Eagles isn't the worst coaching mistake ever in a Super Bowl, it's very close.

David Steele

Super Bowl 52: Eagles overcome all obstacles to scale ultimate height

The Eagles finally check the "Super Bowl champion" box by edging the Patriots 41-33. They do it despite a series of late-season setbacks.

David Steele

Super Bowl 52 predictions: Eagles equipped to upset Patriots in a classic

Are the Eagles good enough to beat the Patriots in Super Bowl 52? SN's David Steele says yes in his predictions for the big game.

David Steele

Mother of Minnesota police shooting victim who inspired Kaepernick keeps spotlight on his death

Philando Castile suffered a public death at the hands of a policeman. His mother is using the Super Bowl to keep his memory alive.

David Steele

Protesters will kneel as Super Bowl, Minnesota and police killing cross paths

The Super Bowl takes place near where Philando Castile was killed by police, an action that moved Colin Kaepernick to start kneeling. Activists aren't letting the moment pass.

David Steele

NFL still can't figure out catches — but proves it can still cash checks

Roger Goodell had few good answers to the league's ongoing problems, including one at the root of the sport itself. "Fine with us," say the TV networks.

David Steele

In Chiefs-Redskins trade, Kendall Fuller gives KC runaway win, upends QB market

The Chiefs acquiring a rising young cornerback in the "Alex Smith trade" is so extraordinary in today's NFL, the deal might some day become known as the "Kendall Fuller trade."

David Steele

Washington gets quarterback it wanted: Not Kirk Cousins

Kirk Cousins' days in Washington have long been numbered. Now his exit has begun. It's Alex Smith's turn to feel the dysfunction.

David Steele

Super Bowl 52: Eagles challenge Patriots with another elite defense

Even though the Eagles won't have Carson Wentz to make Super Bowl 52 a QB meeting of the "ages," Tom Brady will have Philadelphia's stellar defense on his mind.

David Steele

NFL players vote Alvin Kamara Sporting News Rookie of the Year for 2017

Saints running back Alvin Kamara was the best rookie player in the NFL for the 2017 season, according to his peers.

David Steele

NFL players vote Keenan Allen Comeback Players of the Year for 2017

After returning from a torn AFC for a career season with the Chargers, Keenan Allen's peers voted him Sporting News Comeback Player of the Year for 2017.

David Steele

NFL playoffs: Picks, odds for Jaguars vs. Patriots AFC championship game

The Jaguars and Patriots play Sunday for a chance to advance to Super Bowl LII. Here are our picks and predictions for the AFC championship game.

David Steele

Between Raiders and Browns, NFL's Rooney Rule is being mocked

The Rooney Rule was supposed to shake up the NFL's old-boy network. The Raiders and Browns are acting like the old ways are just fine with them, though.

David Steele

Drew Brees' playoff heroics become devastating footnote — again

NFL playoff heroics reduced to a trivia question — it's something Drew Brees has faced before. The Saints QB's almost-game-winning drive won't be forgotten, but it was overshadowed.

David Steele

Advancing MLK Day an important part of Super Bowl history

Super Bowl XXVII is memorable in part because it was removed from Arizona, which was one of the states that initially refused to observe Martin Luther King's birthday as a holiday.

David Steele

Stefon Diggs' biggest play ever keeps Vikings on path toward Super Bowl

Stefon Diggs has been a danger to break something big ever since arriving in Minnesota, so engineering a playoff miracle was no big surprise.

David Steele

Blake Bortles' clutch fourth quarter gives him, Jaguars the last laugh

Four years of Blake Bortles jokes are well-deserved, but so is the credit he gets for two huge drives that saved the Jaguars' shocking win over the Steelers in Pittsburgh.

David Steele

NFL playoffs: Picks, odds for Saints vs. Vikings divisional game in Minneapolis

The Saints and Vikings play Sunday for a chance to advance to the NFC championship game. Here are our picks and predictions for the divisional-round game in Minneapolis.

David Steele

Once again, Falcons will regret letting playoff game get away

The Eagles tried to give the game to the Falcons, and the Falcons refused to accept it. All the blown chances will haunt them like the ones last offseason.

David Steele

NFL playoffs: Picks, odds for Titans vs. Patriots divisional game in Foxborough

The Patriots and Titans play Saturday night for a chance to advance to the AFC championship game. Here are our picks and predictions for the divisional-round game in Foxborough.

David Steele

Jon Gruden, Raiders need to embrace present more than glorify past

The trip down memory lane by Jon Gruden and the Raiders was enticing, but the less they stay in the 2000s, the better they'll make their final years in Oakland.

David Steele

After season of falling back, Titans' Marcus Mariota leaps forward against Chiefs

The talk of Marcus Mariota regressing in his third season grew in the first half against the Chiefs, then were silenced as he led an epic rally.

David Steele

After season of falling back, Titans' Marcus Mariota leaps forward against Chiefs

The talk of Marcus Mariota regressing in his third season grew in the first half against the Chiefs, then were silenced as he led an epic rally.

David Steele

Chiefs' Alex Smith-Pat Mahomes QB shuffle starts early after playoff collapse

The time and market are right for the Chiefs to move Alex Smith and promote Patrick Mahomes, as planned. Kansas City just didn't expect the time to arrive so fast.

David Steele

Panthers' year of giving Cam Newton help ends with him getting no help

Drew Brees spread the wealth around for the Saints, while Cam Newton was almost all the wealth the Panthers had. That's why the Panthers are done.

David Steele

NFL playoffs: Picks, odds for Bills vs. Jaguars wild-card game

The Bills and Jaguars are set for an AFC wild-card showdown. Here are our picks and predictions for Sunday's playoff game.

David Steele

NFL playoffs: Picks, odds for Falcons vs. Rams wild-card game in L.A.

The Falcons and Rams play Saturday for a chance to advance in the playoffs. Here are our picks and predictions for the NFC wild-card game in Los Angeles.

David Steele

Bruce Arians' Carson Palmer-or-bust plan leaves Cardinals busted at QB

Finding a new quarterback will be harder for the Cardinals than replacing Bruce Arians, because they never had anyone to take the reins from Carson Palmer.

David Steele

Colts' eight best coaching candidates to replace Chuck Pagano

The Colts have had lots of time to ponder who will replace Chuck Pagano as head coach. Don't be shocked if team owner Jim Irsay shoots for the moon, also known as Alabama's Nick Saban.

David Steele

Lions' eight best coaching candidates to replace Jim Caldwell

Now that Jim Caldwell is out after four years, here's who the Lions could be looking for to be their next head coach. Hint: Think inside the state, and in the college ranks. And khaki.

David Steele

Ravens' present, future up in air as Baltimore continues to run in place

What do the Ravens, with John Harbaugh and Joe Flacco in place for 10 years, do next? Sunday's crushing loss left them out of the playoffs for a third straight year.

David Steele

From tanking to trading to benching, Bills survive themselves, reach playoffs

All year, the Bills looked like they couldn't get out of their own way. After the Nathan Peterman debacle, they came on strong and ended 17 years of futility.

David Steele

Week 17 NFL picks straight up: Seahawks, Chargers get help they need, make playoffs

Our NFL picks and predictions for Week 17 feature the exact scenarios Seattle and Los Angeles need to make the playoffs.

David Steele

Mitchell Trubisky's rise to franchise QB timed well for Bears in 2018, beyond

Those who have watched Mitchell Trubisky develop as a rookie are impressed by how quickly he has taken command. The Bears might just have themselves a special quarterback.

David Steele

Eagles' QB problem can't be sugarcoated as NFC greats await in playoffs

The Eagles needed to prove they could stay afloat with Nick Foles on Monday night, and they failed. Four possible playoff foes and their QBs surely noticed.

David Steele

Jaguars crash back to Earth, now have to figure out how to rise again

All the fun the Jaguars had beating up Seattle and Houston was washed away by the 10-loss 49ers. It didn't convince anyone they were ready for the playoffs.

David Steele

Rams started from the bottom, now might have MVP and Coach of the Year

The Rams, Todd Gurley and Sean McVay have gotten better as the season has evolved, and with the NFC West clinched, more rewards should be coming.

David Steele

Week 16 NFL picks straight up: Falcons sweep Saints; Browns finally win

Our Week 16 NFL picks and predictions feature a happy holiday for Cleveland, except for those planning an 0-16 parade. Atlanta will be festive, too, after the Falcons beat their arch-rivals in New Orleans.

David Steele

Seahawks losing poise, chemistry worse than losing playoff hopes

The scoreboard the last two weeks doesn't tell the story of how the Seahawks have mentally melted down. That's now who they've been, so they need to fix it.

David Steele

Don't count on NFL to give Jerry Richardson full Donald Sterling treatment

What Jerry Richardson reportedly did as owner of the Panthers makes him at least as foul as Donald Sterling. The NBA finally threw Sterling out. How brave is the NFL?

David Steele

Week 15 NFL picks straight up: Seahawks overtake Rams; Panthers edge Packers

Our Week 15 NFL picks and predictions feature lead changes in both West divisions, as both the Los Angeles Chargers and Seattle get massive wins over division rivals.

David Steele

For Carson Wentz's recovery, history of mobile QB knee injuries is encouraging

There have been few examples of running QBs who have come back from blown ACLs, and with mixed results. But the history is mostly good news for Carson Wentz and the Eagles.

David Steele

Antonio Brown, Steelers showing they can outscore anyone, even the Patriots

Antonio Brown and the Steelers' offense rained points on the Ravens on Sunday night. Would you bet against them in a shootout, in Week 15 or in the playoffs?

David Steele

Tom Savage mess proves again NFL can't be trusted with players' heads

NFL watchers should not still be asking, "Do they even have a concussion protocol?" The Texans' handling of Tom Savage raised too many questions and provided too few answers.

David Steele

As John Dorsey steps in, Browns show they're closer than they look

The Browns' first game after John Dorsey's hiring was a heartbreaker. It also was a reminder that Cleveland's new general manager is in position to reap his predecessor's harvest.

David Steele

Week 14 NFL picks straight up: Cowboys bully Giants; Jaguars edge Seahawks

Our Week 14 NFL picks and predictions feature more embarrassment for New York. Plus, Jacksonville establishes itself as a legit playoff contender with a big win.

David Steele

Steelers vs. Bengals is a painful, expensive rivalry, not just 'AFC North football'

These teams have gone overboard every time they've met since 2015, to the tune of nearly $300,000 in fines, multiple suspensions and catastrophic injuries.

David Steele

Giants shakeup signals biggest crisis in four decades, no easy solution

No matter which path the Giants take to fix the mess they created, New York could struggle to fill the coach and GM jobs with its preferred people.

David Steele

Blow to Ravens' defense means bad offense has to get better fast

A Ravens defense that has caught lots of breaks had a big one go against it with Jimmy Smith's injury. Joe Flacco and the offense, time to join the party.

David Steele

Eagles' failed gamble sign of how NFC is gaining on them

The gap between the Eagles and the rest of the NFC seemed so big at times this season, but not any more. One play in Seattle epitomized the gap closing.

David Steele

Week 13 NFL picks straight up: Can Panthers overcome Saints in New Orleans?

In our Week 13 NFL picks and predictions, the schedule gives us a post-Thanksgiving feast. The main dish will be the Panthers-Saints rematch in the NFC South.

David Steele

Seven NFL coaching moves that could cost (or earn) a playoff spot

Bench your quarterback when you're still a wild-card team? Onside kick in the season opener? The difference between being in and out of the playoffs is that thin.

David Steele

Death of Cowboys' offense without Ezekiel Elliott is greatly exaggerated

The Cowboys' offense was better in the second half against Washington, than in all three games Ezekiel Elliott had missed. Hello, Dak Prescott and Alfred Morris.

David Steele

Eli Manning becomes latest scapegoat in Giant failure of Ben McAdoo's tenure

It started falling apart for the Giants when they shoved out Tom Coughlin. His replacement, Ben McAdoo, is adept at finding human shields, even a franchise icon like Eli Manning.

David Steele

Chances for Browns to avoid 0-16 shrink as Packers make unexpected leap

As late as Sunday afternoon, the Packers loomed as a good bet to be the Browns' first victim. Then Brett Hundley went crazy and altered the schedule.

David Steele

Alex Smith KC's QB, but history says Andy Reid won't let sentiment prevent change

Alex Smith might be Andy Reid's guy in KC even in tough times, but Donovan McNabb was once his guy, and Reid benched him. Stay loose, Patrick Mahomes.

David Steele

Blake Bortles always a threat to sink Jaguars by, well, being Blake Bortles

It was a matter of time before the Jaguars' No. 1 defense couldn't hold up Blake Bortles any longer. But he's all Jacksonville has, and so it will sink or swim with him.

David Steele

Week 12 NFL picks straight up: Chiefs handle Bills; Raiders best Broncos

Here are our Week 12 NFL picks and predictions.

David Steele

For Chargers, winless did not mean hopeless; now they have playoffs in sight

Starting 0-4 did not doom the Chargers; with the thorough beating they handed the Cowboys on Thursday, they've crept back into the AFC West race.

David Steele

Nathan Peterman joins parade of futility as AFC East foes flop against Brady, Patriots

Nathan Peterman's flop in Buffalo is just the latest example: The Patriots' AFC East rivals continue to embarrass themselves while chasing an answer to Tom Brady.

David Steele

Pete Carroll has Seahawks where they shouldn't be — on playoffs' fringe

Fake field goals. Real kickers who miss field-goal kicks. Pete Carroll is on the hook for both. He also should get credit for having the Seahawks in contention despite so many injuries.

David Steele

Inexcusable lack of preparation costing Raiders an opportunity in AFC West

The Raiders are too talented and have too much motivation to have come out so flat in their blowout loss to the Patriots. Oakland is wasting its slim playoff hopes.

David Steele

Comeback win proves Saints can march a long way, in any way

The Saints' upcoming schedule will test them, but they've passed every one over the last eight weeks, and none were tougher than Sunday's against Washington.

David Steele

Week 11 NFL picks straight up: Rams outscore Vikings; Seahawks slow Falcons

Our NFL picks and predictions for Week 11 feature a shootout in Minnesota, plus a key NFC tilt in Seattle.

David Steele

If Bills don't want Tyrod Taylor, it's their loss and another team's gain

Honk if you'd take Tyrod Taylor over your team's quarterback right now. Too bad the Bills are, once again, unsatisfied with him.

David Steele

Giants' problems are entangled with Odell Beckham Jr.'s future

The Giants might tear things up and start all over again, but how (or if) they do it depends on whether they commit to Odell Beckham Jr. They have to decide soon.

David Steele

Washington blows first chance to step over Cowboys when they're down

Sunday was the first of several weeks Dallas would be without Ezekiel Elliott. But Washington couldn't capitalize, and that's par for the course.

David Steele

Saints are living large with less Drew Brees, more rushing and defense

It's an unfamiliar formula the Saints are using, but it worked perfectly Sunday in Buffalo, and now the Saints are breathing down the Eagles' necks in the NFC.

David Steele

Week 10 NFL picks straight up: Patriots shut out Broncos; 49ers, Browns stay winless

Our picks and predictions for Week 10 of the NFL season feature a blowout in Denver, plus more demise for San Francisco and Cleveland.

David Steele

Buccaneers' step backwards puts Jameis Winston, Dirk Koetter under microscope

The Buccaneers have raised a lot of questions as they have gone from 9-7 last year to 2-6 halfway through this season. Tampa Bay can no longer hide from its issues.

David Steele

Bengals are a mess again, so no wonder A.J. Green snapped

Was the state of the Bengals the reason A.J. Green went after Jalen Ramsey Sunday? You can't blame him if it was. They're falling and dragging him down with them.

David Steele

Seahawks' margin for error proves dangerously thin in loss to Redskins

The Seahawks need to play perfect to win, and they're far from perfect. Their home loss to Washington highlighted every shortcoming they have.

David Steele

Week 9 NFL picks straight up: Chiefs roll in Dallas; Eagles' trade pays off

Our NFL picks and predictions for Week 9 feature a close win for Kansas City in Dallas, plus a blowout win for Philadelphia over Denver.

David Steele

Three NFL teams passed Brock Osweiler around; did any of them come out winners?

Brock Osweiler is back where he began in the NFL: starting for the Broncos. Three teams have had a piece of him since March, but did any of them benefit?

David Steele

Jimmy Garoppolo the latest to cash in on backing up Tom Brady with Patriots

The Patriots keep running a quarterback development program and flipping the prospects. Tom Brady still excels while his backups become assets.

David Steele

Kelvin Benjamin trade doesn't help Cam Newton or make Panthers better

One more time: Do the Panthers even like Cam Newton? They took away yet another offensive weapon, in the middle of a season that could go either way.

David Steele

Kirk Cousins' door to 49ers closes, but opens to other teams, including his own

Kirk Cousins and the 49ers seemed like the perfect match ... until they weren't. He could still stay where he is next year, but lots of teams should now look.

David Steele

Seahawks' Duane Brown trade is an early Thanksgiving for Russell Wilson

It's a miracle (better known as Russell Wilson) that the Seahawks are in the hunt with their terrible offensive line. The Duane Brown trade improves Seattle instantly.

David Steele

Bob McNair's insults, Texans' kneeldown change protest game for good

NFL player protests took on a new dimension Sunday when the Texans hit back at team owner Bob McNair. There's no more delusion about the gulf between the two sides.

David Steele

Patriots just good enough in AFC even with offense now lagging, too

Tom Brady admits the Patriots are leaving points on the field, as they did against the Chargers. But New England is still near the top of the AFC entering its bye.

David Steele

Week 8 NFL picks straight up: Chargers stun Patriots; 49ers, Browns stay winless

Our picks and predictions for Week 8 of the NFL season feature a major upset in New England, plus more woes for San Francisco and Cleveland.

David Steele

Officials' head-scratching response to Kiko Alonso hit now NFL's headache

Does the NFL want to get rid of hits like Kiko Alonso's to the head of Joe Flacco on Thursday night, or doesn't it? It's hard to tell after officials let Alonso stay in the game.

David Steele

As Kaepernick waits, Dolphins', Ravens' backup QBs flop on national stage

Thursday night was a quarterback emergency, but both the Dolphins and Ravens passed on Colin Kaepernick as a solution months ago. Their decisions could still haunt them.

David Steele

Carson Wentz keeps lifting Eagles past injuries and to top of NFL

The way Carson Wentz played Monday night, the sky might be the limit for the Eagles. Before and after star left tackle Jason Peters went down, Wentz kept them up.

David Steele

John Fox has Bears winning, playing defense and saving his reputation

The Bears' two years of ineptitude made many forget about John Fox's resume. Two straight wins and a 3-4 record are reminders that the Chicago coach knows his stuff.

David Steele

Carson Palmer goes down, and Cardinals' run of contention goes with him

The Cardinals tried to wring one more year out of Carson Palmer, and with him, one more run at a Super Bowl. They can stop running now that Palmer is injured again.

David Steele

Week 7 NFL picks straight up: Patriots get Falcons again; Cowboys sneak by 49ers

Our Week 7 NFL picks straight up feature some déjà vu for Atlanta in New England, plus a game of survival for Dallas against San Francisco.

David Steele

49ers' Jed York is voice of reason among NFL owners on protests, Kaepernick

The NFL should have followed Jed York's lead on kneeling and raising awareness long ago. The owners can still do right by everybody if they listen to him now.

David Steele

Ezekiel Elliott gets another reprieve, and courts remain NFL's Kryptonite

The NFLPA has taken a beating at the negotiating table, but when it comes to judges the union has the edge on the NFL. The latest delay in Ezekiel Elliott's suspension proves it.

David Steele

No 'smoking gun' in Colin Kaepernick grievance, but don't assume he doesn't have one

Peel away all the drama around player protests, and Colin Kaepernick still needs hard evidence of collusion. But chances are he hasn't shown all his cards yet.

David Steele

Raiders losses starting to feel like the new norm in 2017

Were the Raiders' first two games an illusion? They have been a mess in the four games since, and cleaning it up before Thursday's game against the Chiefs won't be easy.

David Steele

Beathard upstaging Cousins' 'audition' is plot twist in 49ers' QB drama

The 49ers are still expected to chase Kirk Cousins next offseason, but C.J. Beathard's debut against Cousins' current team threw a surprise wrench into those plans.

David Steele

Week 6 NFL picks straight up: Packers handle Vikings; Giants continue skid

Our picks and predictions for Week 6 of the NFL season feature a battle of NFC powers in Carolina on Thursday night, as well as Green Bay taking a commanding lead in the NFC North.

David Steele

Eagles' rise comes ahead of schedule as rest of NFC East falls

The surprising 4-1 Eagles have a chance to separate from the rest of the division in the next two weeks.

David Steele

Giants fooled themselves on Odell Beckham Jr., everything else in 2017

After going to the playoffs last year, the Giants thought the only thing holding them back was Odell Beckham Jr.'s immaturity. They thought very wrong.

David Steele

Colts, Andrew Luck are copying wrong part of Peyton Manning's career

The return of Andrew Luck is a positive for the Colts, who have not had many. But even their guest of honor this weekend, Peyton Manning, is an object lesson for Luck and Indianapolis.

David Steele

Week 5 NFL picks straight up: Chiefs edge Texans; Raiders handle Ravens

Our Week 5 NFL picks and predictions feature a big AFC matchup between Kansas City and Houston, plus a damning loss for Baltimore in Oakland.

David Steele

NFL must silence fan slurs at Pryor, but should not mute players protesting racism

Reacting to Terrelle Pryor's claim by punishing the offensive fans in Kansas City is good. Grasping the big picture of player protests would be much better.

David Steele

Alex Smith maintains elite QB status in keeping Chiefs unbeaten

Against Washington, Alex Smith looked almost as good as he did in the opener against the Patriots. He and the Chiefs still look like the real thing.

David Steele

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