Ohio State offensive coordinator Chip Kelly is in the mix to fill the same role with the Houston ...

Ohio State offensive coordinator Chip Kelly is in the mix to fill the same role with the Houston Texans and Jacksonville Jaguars, according to <a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/ohio-states-chip-kelly-at-top-of-list-for-several-nfl-teams-in-need-of-offensive-coordinator/">CBS Sports' Jonathan Jones</a>.Kelly, who won a national championship with Ohio State this week, has ties to the Texans' coaching staff, with head coach DeMeco Ryans playing linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles from 2013-15 when Kelly was the team's sideline boss.Houston fired offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik on Friday after losing to the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC divisional round. Other top candidates for the position include Houston quarterback coach Jerrod Johnson and New Orleans Saints offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, Jones adds.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Jaguars are reportedly looking to pair Kelly with new head coach Liam Coen. However, Coen is considered a play-calling head coach, and it's unclear how involved Kelly would be in calling plays during games, per Jones.Under Slowik, Houston generated mediocre offensive numbers during the 2024 regular season, finishing 19th in points per game and 22nd in yards per game. The team's production largely regressed from Slowik's first year in charge when it ranked 13th and 12th in those categories.Kelly also worked as a head coach for the San Fransisco 49ers for the 2016 season and UCLA from 2018-23.

COLUMBUS, OHIO - MARCH 05: Ohio State Buckeyes Offensive Coordinator Chip Kelly during at Woody Hayes Athletic Center on March 05, 2024 in Columbus, Ohio.

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Report: Texans, Jaguars considering Chip Kelly for OC job

The NFL is expected to expand replay assist to include plays involving quarterback slides for the...

The NFL is expected to expand replay assist to include plays involving quarterback slides for the 2025 season, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43559941/sources-nfl-expected-include-qb-slides-expanded-replay-assist">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.The league's competition committee will likely discuss adding quarterback slides to replay assists throughout the offseason before voting on any rule changes at the NFL's annual meeting in late March, Schefter adds.The report comes a week after referees flagged Houston Texans linebacker <a href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188268">Henry To'oTo'o</a> for unnecessary roughness late in the third quarter of a divisional-round matchup after he attempted to hit Patrick Mahomes as the star Kansas City Chiefs quarterback slid. The penalty helped set up a Chiefs touchdown that extended their lead en route to a 23-14 win.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Henry To’oTo’o was called for a penalty after this hit on Patrick Mahomes. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HOUvsKC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HOUvsKC</a> | ESPN, ABC, ESPN+ <a href="https://t.co/w4E4cSI3FF">pic.twitter.com/w4E4cSI3FF</a>— ESPN (@espn) <a href="https://twitter.com/espn/status/1880759722090913807?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Former senior vice president of officiating Walt Anderson <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3194904" href="https://thescore.com/news/3194904">said</a> the penalty was the correct call. Mahomes also <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3197561" href="https://thescore.com/news/3197561">defended</a> his team, saying Kansas City doesn't receive special treatment from referees.Officials can use replay assist in specific game situations, such as enforcing penalties and marking the spot of the ball. The league expanded replay assist for the 2024 season to include roughing the passer calls, intentional grounding, and late hits out of bounds.The Chiefs take on the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Championship Game on Sunday.

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - NOVEMBER 4: Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs slides to the ground on a QB scramble during overtime against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on November 4, 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri.

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Report: NFL expanding replay assist to include QB slides

Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady has withdrawn from the New Orlean Saints’ head coac...

Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady has withdrawn from the New Orlean Saints’ head coaching search, sources told <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1883289503735116084">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero</a>.Brady is electing to stay in Buffalo as offensive coordinator for another season, Rapoport reports. He had already completed his first virtual interview with the Saints.New Orleans is currently the only team with a head coaching vacancy. The Saints had a second interview with New York Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka on Saturday and plan on meeting with former Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy and Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Brady has helped build the Bills’ offense into one of the strongest in the league. Buffalo ranked second in average points per game and ninth in average passing yards per contest in 2024. The Bills finished 13-4 and were ranked second in the AFC.The Saints, in contrast, were one of the weakest teams in the league and fired head coach Dennis Allen after the team started 2-7. New Orleans finished 5-12 under interim coach Darren Rizzi and was last in the NFC South.Brady and the Bills will face off against the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC conference championship Sunday at 6:30 p.m. ET.

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 29: Offensive Coordinator Joe Brady of the Buffalo Bills looks on prior to a game against the New York Jets at Highmark Stadium on December 29, 2024 in Orchard Park, New York.

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Report: Bills OC Brady withdraws from Saints' coaching search

Quarterback Shedeur Sanders doesn't see anything wrong with the involvement of his father, Deion,...

Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/160938" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/160938">Shedeur Sanders</a> doesn't see anything wrong with the involvement of his father, Deion, in his career."I ain't know your parents being involved and wanting the best for you is a problem," Shedeur told reporters Saturday, including <a href="https://x.com/TDavenport_NFL/status/1883248077479542855">ESPN's Turron Davenport</a>. "I think as parents, each and every one of 'em want the best for their kids."Deion coached Sanders, as well as Heisman Trophy winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/179519" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/179519">Travis Hunter</a>, at Colorado. He <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2875776" href="https://thescore.com/news/2875776">said</a> in March 2024 that he had an idea of where he wanted both players to go in the 2025 draft and that there are "certain cities that ain't gonna happen."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"The fact that he has an opportunity to do that for me and he has the best quarterback in the country, he's supposed to do that," Sanders said.Sanders is one of the most high-profile prospects and top signal-callers in the draft. He's currently meeting with teams at the East-West Shrine Bowl in Arlington, Texas. Sanders has already spoken with the Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, and New York Giants, who have the top three picks in the draft. Both he and Hunter are expected to go early in the first round.Sanders isn't participating in the Shrine Bowl and hasn't decided whether to throw at the NFL combine.The signal-caller is coming off the best season of his college career, throwing for 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns with a 74% completion rate. The Buffaloes finished 9-4 and qualified for their first bowl since the 2020 season."I'm the most guaranteed risk you take," Sanders said, per <a href="http://https://x.com/TDavenport_NFL/status/1883245554391777666">Davenport</a>.

ORLANDO, FL - SEPTEMBER 28: Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders (2) gets loose during warm ups before a college football game between the Colorado Buffaloes and the UCF Knights on September 28th, 2024 at FBC Mortgage Stadium in Orlando, FL.

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Shedeur: Nothing wrong with Deion's involvement in my career

The New York Jets hired Denver Broncos assistant general manager Darren Mougey to be their new GM...

The New York Jets hired Denver Broncos assistant general manager Darren Mougey to be their new GM, the team announced Saturday.Mougey beat out Cincinnati Bengals senior personnel executive Trey Brown and Washington Commanders assistant GM Lance Newmark for the gig.The announcement comes three days after New York hired Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn as head coach. Broncos head coach Sean Payton has worked with both Mougey and Glenn, with the latter playing and coaching for him on the New Orleans Saints.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Mougey, 39, began his executive career with the Broncos in 2012, winning Super Bowl 50 in 2016. He was promoted to assistant GM in 2022.He'll be tasked with addressing the Jets' quarterback room, among other responsibilities. Mougey will have to decide whether to retain veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/747" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/747">Aaron Rodgers</a>, who struggled mightily this season. Rodgers threw for 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 picks, one of his poorest seasons as a starter.Mougey will have $20.7 million in cap space to begin the offseason, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/salary-cap/new-york-jets">Over the Cap</a>.The Jets went 5-12 in 2024. They've missed the postseason for 14 straight years, making it the longest active playoff drought of the four major sports leagues in North America.

CENTENNIAL, CO - APRIL 22: Denver Broncos assistant GM Darren Mougey during a pre-draft press conference at the Pat Bowlen Fieldhouse April 22, 2022. "n

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Jets hire Broncos' Darren Mougey as GM

Former Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus will be interviewed for the Dallas Cowboys' defensi...

Former Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus will be interviewed for the Dallas Cowboys' defensive coordinator job, a source told <a href="https://x.com/calvinwatkins/status/1882996915522154630">Dallas Morning News' Calvin Watkins</a>.Eberflus is considered a "prime candidate" for the role, <a href="https://x.com/JFowlerESPN/status/1882988381896065439">ESPN's Jeremy Fowler</a> reports. He'd work under Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer, who <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3199622" href="https://thescore.com/news/3199622">was tapped</a> to lead the team Friday. Schottenheimer was Dallas' offensive coordinator for the previous two campaigns.Eberflus was the Bears' sideline boss from 2022-24 but was fired Nov. 29 after amassing a 4-8 record in 2024. The 54-year-old was the first Bears head coach to be fired midseason.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Atlanta Falcons had previously interviewed Eberflus for their defensive coordinator position before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3194205" href="https://thescore.com/news/3194205">hiring</a> former Jets interim coach Jeff Ulbrich.Eberflus previously served as Dallas' linebackers coach from 2011-17 and was also its defensive passing game coordinator beginning in 2016. He joined the Indianapolis Colts as their defensive coordinator for the 2018 season.The Cowboys' defense struggled in 2024, ranking 28th in average yards allowed per game and 31st in average points allowed per contest. Dallas finished 7-10, missing the playoffs.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - NOVEMBER 17: Head coach Matt Eberflus of the Chicago Bears looks on from the sidelines during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers at Soldier Field on November 17, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Report: Eberflus 'prime candidate' for Cowboys DC

The San Francisco 49ers hired Robert Saleh to be their defensive coordinator, the team announced ...

The San Francisco 49ers hired Robert Saleh to be their defensive coordinator, the team announced Friday.This is Saleh's second stint with the 49ers after he served in the same role from 2017-20. Saleh also interviewed for head coaching vacancies with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Dallas Cowboys, and Las Vegas Raiders during this cycle.Saleh planned to become the 49ers' defensive coordinator unless he got a head coaching gig, according to <a href="https://x.com/MikeSilver/status/1882984288234426842">The Athletic's Michael Silver</a>. He reportedly didn't consider any other defensive coordinator job.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Saleh was considered a favorite for the Jaguars head coaching position and was supposed to fly out for a second interview Friday, The Athletic reports. However, he canceled his flight after Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Liam Coen <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3198639" href="https://thescore.com/news/3198639">re-engaged talks</a> with the Jaguars on Thursday.The 49ers struggled on defense in 2024 under first-year coordinator Nick Sorensen, ranking 29th in average points allowed per game. San Francisco finished 6-11 and missed the playoffs.Saleh was the New York Jets head coach from 2021-24, accumulating a 20-36 record with no playoff appearances. The club fired the 45-year-old after posting a 2-3 record to start this campaign.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 29: Head coach Robert Saleh of the New York Jets looks on against the Denver Broncos during the first half at MetLife Stadium on September 29, 2024 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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49ers hire Saleh as DC for 2nd stint

The Dallas Cowboys hired Brian Schottenheimer as their next head coach, the team announced Friday...

The Dallas Cowboys hired Brian Schottenheimer as their next head coach, the team announced Friday.The Cowboys signed Schottenheimer to a four-year deal, a source told <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1883001647972184331">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>.He beat out former Jets head coach Robert Saleh, Seattle Seahawks assistant head coach Leslie Frazier, and Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore for the job. The Cowboys were also rumored to be considering Colorado head coach Deion Sanders.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>This is Schottenheimer's first head coaching gig after spending most of his 25-year career as an offensive coordinator or quarterbacks coach. He joined Dallas in 2022 as a coaching analyst and served as the team's offensive coordinator for the past two seasons."Brian Schottenheimer is known as a career assistant," owner Jerry Jones told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1882982145150574601">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>. "He ain't Brian no more. He is now known as the head coach of the Dallas Cowboys."Schottenheimer replaces Mike McCarthy, who parted ways with Dallas after the sides couldn't agree on a new deal. Schottenheimer is the Cowboys' ninth head coach since Jones bought the franchise in 1989.Former Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus is considered a "prime candidate" for the Cowboys' defensive coordinator vacancy, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3199694" href="https://thescore.com/news/3199694">ESPN's Jeremy Fowler</a> reports. Eberflus had also previously coached in Dallas as the team's linebackers coach and passing game coordinator from 2011-17.Dallas ranked 16th in yards per game and 21st in points per game on offense this campaign, finishing 7-10. The club was without franchise quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/50470" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/50470">Dak Prescott</a> for half of the season after he injured his hamstring in Week 9.

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 28: Dallas Cowboys offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer looks on prior to the game against the New York Giants at AT&T Stadium on November 28, 2024 in Arlington, Texas.

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Cowboys hire Schottenheimer as head coach

The Rams plan on working to keep running back Kyren Williams in Los Angeles for longer.  Rams gen...

The Rams plan on working to keep running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174196" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174196">Kyren Williams</a> in Los Angeles for longer.Rams general manager Les Snead said Friday that discussions with Williams over an extension would be "on the plate" this offseason, with the 24-year-old set to enter the last year of his rookie contract and eligible for a new deal."He would be someone that after three years you could begin discussing, let's call it, renegotiating, starting anew," Snead told reporters, including <a href="https://www.therams.com/news/les-snead-on-possible-kyren-williams-extension-i-think-that-s-something-that-s-going-to-be-on-the-plate-for-discussion-this-offseason">team writer Stu Jackson</a>. "I do think Kyren is someone who is a Ram and has a very impactful role for us."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Los Angeles hasn't signed a running back to an extension since inking Todd Gurley to a four-year, $60-million deal in 2018, which made him the highest-paid rusher at the time. The Rams released Gurley in March 2020 after he struggled with knee injuries.Williams was Los Angeles' go-to running back this campaign, posting 1,299 yards and 14 touchdowns on the ground. However, he struggled with ball security in the regular season, recording five fumbles to tie New York Jets running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174033" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174033">Breece Hall</a> for the second-most at the position.The Rams rushed for 1,765 yards across the 2024 regular season, ranking 24th in the NFL. Williams also added 182 rushing yards across L.A.'s two postseason games but notably fumbled in the fourth quarter of the team's 28-22 divisional-round loss to the Philadelphia Eagles."I think we would probably take the philosophy that you're going to need more than one running back, so we'll always try to keep that room somewhat healthy in terms of depth," Snead said. "There is a possibility, right, where (Williams) needs a partner to take some load off of him. He's probably played more than any running back over the last two years, so that's something to think about."The Rams drafted Williams in the fifth round in 2022.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - NOVEMBER 03: Head coach Sean McVay and Kyren Williams #23 of the Los Angeles Rams celebrate after beating the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on November 03, 2024 in Seattle, Washington.

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Rams GM: Extending RB Williams 'on the plate' for discussion

The Las Vegas Raiders are growing more interested in former Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll, ...

The Las Vegas Raiders are growing more interested in former Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JosinaAnderson/status/1882553226706518207">NFL insider Josina Anderson</a>.Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has also drawn interest from the Raiders, Anderson adds.Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones spoke informally to Carroll recently as well, <a href="https://x.com/SlaterNFL/status/1882553805986021398">NFL Network's Jane Slater</a> reports. Cowboys offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer has met with team brass twice and appears to be a top candidate, per Slater.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Carroll was the head coach of the Seahawks from 2010-23, leading the team to a Super Bowl victory in 2013. The 73-year-old was let go by the organization in January 2024 and took a year off from coaching.The Chicago Bears interviewed Carroll during this coaching cycle but hired Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to lead the team Tuesday.

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - JANUARY 07: Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll looks on from the sideline during the third quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on January 07, 2024 in Glendale, Arizona.

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Report: Carroll in play for Raiders, talks to Jones about Cowboys

The Washington Commanders weren't going to let the naysayers contribute to a second straight year...

The Washington Commanders weren't going to let the naysayers contribute to a second straight year rebuilding year.In fact, the Commanders say they've used that doubt from critics to fuel their first run to the NFC Championship Game since 1991."At some point, I'm sure people will start believing in us, and we'll have that same chip on our shoulder," safety <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/107897" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/107897">Jeremy Chinn</a> told reporters, including <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43525646/commanders-rode-doubters-dismissiveness-all-way-nfc-title-game">ESPN's John Keim</a>. "It is the way that we come into work every single day, the guys in this building, the people in this building, the way we show up to work, people can say whatever they want outside. We know who we have in here and who we are."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>That outside noise seemingly included an associate of Dan Quinn, who apparently told the head coach following Washington's Week 1 loss that it'd be "a long time" before the Commanders would become true contenders."I was like, 'Hey, F you, that's not how it's going to go down,'" Quinn said. "It wasn't disrespect, it was dismissiveness, and I felt some kind of way. ... It was we're going to be a lot better than what we just showed today. And eventually, we'll show that. So not to prove it to everybody else or underdog stories, it's how we get down."The mindset helped the Commanders go from a 4-13 team in 2023 to 12-5 in 2024. Washington also claimed its first postseason victories, including an upset of the No. 1-ranked Detroit Lions, since 2005.The Commanders' offense, in particular, has had one of the biggest turnarounds this season under rookie quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199756" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199756">Jayden Daniels</a>. Washington ranked seventh in average yards and fifth in average points per game in 2024 compared to 24th and 25th in 2023, respectively.The Commanders hope to make their first Super Bowl since 1991 with a win over the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday. The two teams face off at 3 p.m. ET.

LANDOVER, MD - NOVEMBER 24: Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn confers with quarterback Jayden Daniels in the late in the fourth quarter during the Cowboys' defeat of the Commaders 34-26 at the Northwest Stadium in Landover, MD on November 24, 2024.

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Quinn, players credit naysayers for fueling Commanders' underdog season

Tom Brady has nothing but praise for Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels.  "I think ...

Tom Brady has nothing but praise for Washington Commanders quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199756" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199756">Jayden Daniels</a>."I think that fear of failure, instilled in a lot of people in early points of their life, keeps them from the ultimate confidence that they have in themselves, which allows them to grow to their maximum potential," Brady said on the "Let's Go!" podcast with Bill Belichick and Jim Gray, per the <a href="https://x.com/NickiJhabvala/status/1881886008926683218">Washington Post's Nicki Jhabvala</a>. "Even though Jayden Daniels is just a rookie, he has that poise and confidence.Brady continued: "Look at a young Tiger Woods. He had never proven on the big stage that he was ready for the big moments at the Masters in '97. But he proved that to himself in all those junior amateurs that he won. He didn't care who he was playing. It was him versus him."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Daniels is enjoying a standout year. The Commanders are in the NFC championship game for the first time since 1991 after upsetting the top-seeded Detroit Lions. The No. 2 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft turned around a Washington team that went 4-13 the season prior and led the franchise to a 12-5 regular-season record.Daniels is only the sixth rookie quarterback to reach a conference championship, and if the Commanders upset the Philadelphia Eagles, the LSU product will be the first rookie quarterback to reach the Super Bowl.The 24-year-old threw for 3,568 yards and 25 touchdowns in the regular season and rushed for six touchdowns and 891 yards. He holds the record for highest regular-season rookie quarterback completion percentage (69%) and the rookie quarterback rushing record.The Commanders will play the Eagles on Sunday at 3 p.m. ET. Washington beat Philadelphia 36-33 when the teams squared off Dec. 22.

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JANUARY 18: Quarterback Jayden Daniels #5 of the Washington Commanders interacts with Fox Sports commentator Tom Brady prior to an NFL football divisional playoff game against the Detroit Lions, at Ford Field on January 18, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Brady praises Daniels' poise, compares him to young Tiger Woods

The Minnesota Vikings and head coach Kevin O'Connell agreed to a multi-year extension, the team a...

The Minnesota Vikings and head coach Kevin O'Connell agreed to a multi-year extension, the team announced Tuesday."Kevin is exactly who we believed him to be when we named him as our head coach - an innovative play-caller, an excellent communicator, and a strong leader who motivates and connects with his players," Vikings co-owner and president Mark Wilf said in a statement. "He has helped establish a culture that positions us for sustained success, and he will continue to set the standard we need as we pursue a championship for Vikings fans."Terms of the deal weren't disclosed. The Vikings are also working on a contract extension for general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1881816820057088212">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a> reports.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The extension comes in the wake of the Vikings' wild-card loss to the Los Angeles Rams. Fox Sports' Jay Glazer reported in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3180578" href="https://thescore.com/news/3180578">early January</a> that "multiple teams" were considering trading for the coach.O'Connell has been Minnesota's head coach since 2022 and posted a 14-3 record this season. He became the franchise's first coach to lead the team to multiple seasons with 13 or more wins. The 39-year-old would've been entering the last year of his four-year contract in the 2025 season.

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - DECEMBER 29: Head coach Kevin O'Connell of the Minnesota Vikings looks on prior to a game between the Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium on December 29, 2024 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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Vikings give O'Connell multi-year extension

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson didn't mince words when critiquing his performance Sun...

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson didn't mince words when critiquing his performance Sunday against the Buffalo Bills in the AFC divisional round."In the first half, I had two costly turnovers ... throw a BS interception," Jackson told reporters after the loss, including <a href="https://x.com/jamisonhensley/status/1881177833084457013">ESPN's Jamison Hensley</a>. "Turnovers play a factor. Penalties play a factor. We can't have that shit."I'm tired of this shit."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Jackson was 18-for-25 passing against the Bills, throwing for 254 yards and two touchdowns. The 28-year-old turned over the ball twice, losing a fumble and throwing an interception.Despite the costly setbacks, Jackson nearly tied the game after connecting with tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174166" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174166">Isaiah Likely</a> for a 24-yard touchdown with under two minutes to go in the fourth quarter. However, tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/82707" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/82707">Mark Andrews</a> dropped the pass as he fell backward into the end zone on the ensuing two-point conversion to seal the game's 27-25 score.Jackson owns a 1-5 record in the divisional round and conference championship. He's never won multiple contests in a single postseason."I've got to get over this," Jackson said, per <a href="https://x.com/jeffzrebiec/status/1881178055877795945">The Athletic's Jeff Zrebiec</a>. "We're right there. I'm tired of being right there. We need to punch our ticket."Jackson is a favorite to win this season's NFL MVP award, throwing for 4,172 yards and 41 touchdowns in the regular season.

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 19: Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens fumbles the ball against the Buffalo Bills during the second quarter during the AFC Divisional Playoff at Highmark Stadium on January 19, 2025 in Orchard Park, New York.

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Lamar angry with postseason performance: 'Tired of this shit'

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford may be undecided about his NFL future, but he still...

Los Angeles Rams quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/680" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/680">Matthew Stafford</a> may be undecided about his NFL future, but he still believes he can execute at a high level."As far as my future goes ... I'll take some time think about it," Stafford <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-B8gPEiWWI">told</a> reporters after losing Sunday's NFC divisional-round game to the Philadelphia Eagles. "But I feel like I was playing some pretty good ball."The 36-year-old added he "sure feels like" he still has some football left in him.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Rams' offense had a chance to win the contest, as it controlled the ball in Eagles territory with two minutes left in regulation while trailing 28-22. However, Philly sacked Stafford on third down before the veteran quarterback couldn't connect with a receiver on fourth down to seal the game."I love competing. I love being in those moments," Stafford said. "Competed my ass off, and it didn't go the way I wanted to today. Next time I'm out there, line it up. Let's do it again."Stafford said he aggravated a rib injury Sunday that he's been dealing with "for some time." He threw for 324 yards and two touchdowns against the Eagles, tying Kurt Warner for the most postseason passing TDs by a Rams quarterback (15)."I think he epitomizes a lot of the stuff that's right at him in terms of toughness, resilience, (and) ability to overcome adversity," head coach Sean McVay said postgame, per <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43485316/rams-matthew-stafford-says-take-decide-future">ESPN's Sarah Barshop</a>.Stafford finished the 2024 regular season with 3,762 passing yards and 20 touchdowns. He signed a four-year, $160-million contract in March 2022 with $120 million guaranteed, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/player/matt-stafford/1060">Over The Cap</a>. Stafford can become a free agent in 2027.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JANUARY 19: Matthew Stafford #9 of the Los Angeles Rams throws a pass in the third quarter during the NFC Divisional Playoff game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on January 19, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Stafford mum on NFL future: 'I'll take some time'

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts says he's confident he'll play in the NFC Championshi...

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/105247" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/105247">Jalen Hurts</a> says he's confident he'll play in the NFC Championship Game after sustaining a knee injury against the Los Angeles Rams.The quarterback was sacked in the third quarter of Sunday's divisional-round game by defensive end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188321" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188321">Desjuan Johnson</a> and safety <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/200368" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/200368">Jaylen McCollough</a>. He landed awkwardly on his left knee and immediately went into the blue medical tent before re-entering the game on the next play with a knee brace."Tough game. A challenging game. I was able to finish the game and we'll see how the week goes," Hurts said postgame.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Asked by reporters if he expects to play next week, Hurts answered in the affirmative, according to <a href="https://x.com/JeffKerrCBS/status/1881134239976194534">Jeff Kerr of CBS Sports</a>.The 26-year-old relied heavily on running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/99272" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/99272">Saquon Barkley</a> after sustaining the injury and favored his right leg as he walked off the field at the end of the contest.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Judge for yourself Jalen Hurts’ injured knee as Eagles QB walks off the field, finish ott it game to advance to third NFC Championship in two years <a href="https://t.co/jc7PsoLHT6">pic.twitter.com/jc7PsoLHT6</a>— Jori Epstein (@JoriEpstein) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoriEpstein/status/1881122142999441902?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Hurts threw for 128 yards, rushed for 70 yards, and scored the Eagles' first touchdown of the game. He was sacked seven times.The Eagles will play the Washington Commanders in the NFC Championship Game next Sunday at 3 p.m. ET.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JANUARY 19: Jalen Hurts #1 of the Philadelphia Eagles runs with the ball for a touchdown in the first quarter during the NFC Divisional Playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams at Lincoln Financial Field on January 19, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Hurts confident he'll play in NFC title game despite knee injury

Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson wasn't impressed with the officiating in the team's di...

Houston Texans defensive end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188133" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188133">Will Anderson</a> wasn't impressed with the officiating in the team's divisional-round loss to the Kansas City Chiefs."We knew it was going to be us against the refs going into this game," Anderson told reporters, including <a href="https://x.com/WillKunkelFOX/status/1880787613105422723">Fox 26 Houston's Will Kunkel</a>.He added: "We just gotta keep going, man. Next offseason, get the guys together and everybody coming together, and just keep building that team chemistry, and get us past this hump."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Chiefs were the beneficiaries of two questionable penalties: a roughing the passer penalty committed by Anderson, and unnecessary roughness committed by linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188268" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188268">Henry To'oTo'o</a>, both on quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/89514" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/89514">Patrick Mahomes</a>.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Will Anderson was called for roughing the passer on Patrick Mahomes on this play.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HOUvsKC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HOUvsKC</a> | ESPN, ABC, ESPN+ <a href="https://t.co/bTn7Z5XoLZ">pic.twitter.com/bTn7Z5XoLZ</a>— ESPN (@espn) <a href="https://twitter.com/espn/status/1880736730912817254?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Henry To’oTo’o was called for a penalty after this hit on Patrick Mahomes. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HOUvsKC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HOUvsKC</a> | ESPN, ABC, ESPN+ <a href="https://t.co/w4E4cSI3FF">pic.twitter.com/w4E4cSI3FF</a>— ESPN (@espn) <a href="https://twitter.com/espn/status/1880759722090913807?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The former resulted in a Chiefs field goal, and the latter set up a touchdown for tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/23150" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/23150">Travis Kelce</a>. Those 10 points helped Kansas City win 23-14.Referee Clay Martin told reporters, including <a href="https://x.com/AaronWilson_NFL/status/1880790214538625154">KPRC 2 Houston's Aaron Wilson</a>, that he called the penalty on Anderson after seeing "forcible contact to the facemask area." Martin also defended the call on To'oTo'o, noting that there was "forcible contact" to Mahomes' helmet."He slid, obviously, and when he slides, he is considered defenseless," Martin said regarding To'oTo'o's penalty. "The onus is on the defender."Anderson registered four tackles and two sacks in the game. The Texans became the first team in NFL postseason history to outgain their opponent by over 100 yards, commit zero turnovers, and lose.

HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 13: Will Anderson Jr. #51 of the Houston Texans lines up during an NFL wild-card playoff football game against the Cleveland Browns at NRG Stadium on January 13, 2024 in Houston, Texas.

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Texans' Anderson: 'We knew it was going to be us against the refs'

The Atlanta Falcons hired former New York Jets interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich as their defensive...

The Atlanta Falcons hired former New York Jets interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich as their defensive coordinator, the team announced Saturday.Ulbrich takes over for Jimmy Lake, who Atlanta dismissed earlier in January. The Falcons finished 8-9 and second in the NFC South, while the defense allowed 24.9 points per game to rank 23rd in the category this season.Ulbrich joined the Jets in 2021 as their defensive coordinator under Robert Saleh. New York fired Saleh in October after starting the campaign 2-3 and promoted Ulbrich to interim head coach. The team went 3-9 under Ulbrich, missing the playoffs for the 14th straight season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Jets interviewed Ulbrich for their head coaching role, but he was considered a long shot to land the gig.The 47-year-old will reunite with head coach Raheem Morris in Atlanta after serving as Morris' defensive coordinator for 11 games during the 2020 season. Ulbrich was the Falcons' linebackers coach from 2015-19 before being promoted.

FLORHAM PARK, NEW JERSEY - MAY 21: Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich of the New York Jets speaks to media during the New York Jets OTA Offseason Workout at Atlantic Health Jets Training Center on May 21, 2024 in Florham Park, New Jersey.

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Falcons hire Ulbrich as DC

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce reached 100 receiving yards in a playoff game for the n...

Kansas City Chiefs tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/23150" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/23150">Travis Kelce</a> reached 100 receiving yards in a playoff game for the ninth time Saturday against the Houston Texans, setting an NFL record.The 35-year-old broke out of a tie with Jerry Rice for the previous eight-game record.Kelce achieved the feat by catching an 18-yard pass from quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/89514" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/89514">Patrick Mahomes</a>, setting up a first-and-goal. He then topped off the drive with an 11-yard touchdown. Kelce is now one of two players, alongside Rice, to collect 2,000 receiving yards in the postseason.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
MAHOMES TD TO KELCE AS HE FALLS DOWN 📺: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HOUvsKC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HOUvsKC</a> on ESPN/ABC 📱: Stream on <a href="https://twitter.com/NFLPlus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NFLPlus</a> and ESPN+ <a href="https://t.co/ytEUsoGyin">pic.twitter.com/ytEUsoGyin</a>— NFL (@NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1880761636375642228?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Kelce now has 20 receiving touchdowns in his postseason career. He trails Rice by two playoff touchdowns for the most in NFL history."(Kelce's) the greatest tight end there has been," head coach <a href="http://https://x.com/Chiefs/status/1880790515207295310">Andy Reid said</a> after the game.The tight end had his best game of the season thus far, registering seven receptions for 117 yards and a touchdown."Everybody was asking 'Where's Travis Kelce at?' I think he showed the world where he's at," Mahomes said postgame.The win marks the Chiefs' seventh straight AFC Championship appearance. They'll play the winner of the Ravens-Bills game next Sunday at 6:30 p.m. ET.

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JANUARY 18: Travis Kelce #87 of the Kansas City Chiefs carries the ball for a 49 yard first down against the Houston Texans during the second quarter in the AFC Divisional Playoff at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on January 18, 2025 in Kansas City, Missouri.

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Kelce breaks Rice's record with 9th 100-yard playoff game

Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley doesn't appreciate Los Angeles Rams outside lineb...

Philadelphia Eagles running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/99272" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/99272">Saquon Barkley</a> doesn't appreciate Los Angeles Rams outside linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199754" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199754">Jared Verse</a>'s contempt for his team's fans."Probably not the smartest thing to say when you're coming to Philadelphia," Barkley said Friday, per <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43456083/saquon-barkley-questions-jared-verse-calling-eagles-fans">ESPN's Tim McManus</a>. "I've been on the other side (as a New York Giant) and, even if I felt some type of way, I probably wouldn't give them any extra fuel."I'm pretty sure Philly fans have seen that comment. It was already going to be loud and rocking, so it's just only going to add to it."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Verse <a target="_blank" href="https://thescore.com/news/3192726">said</a> Thursday that he "hates" Eagles fans and finds them annoying. He lamented that he could hear the fans' obscenities toward the Rams through his headphones before the two teams faced off in November, a clash the Eagles won 37-20.The rookie didn't walk his comments back Friday, telling Gary Klein of the Los Angeles Times that he wanted to "move on.""What was said was said. That was the past," he <a href="https://x.com/LATimesklein/status/1880369296322490865">said</a>. "We've got a game to handle."Barkley played with the Giants from 2018 to 2023 before signing a three-year contract with the division-rival Eagles in March 2024.The running back has been one of Philadelphia's most impactful additions, rushing for 2,005 yards and 15 touchdowns in 16 games. He was 101 yards shy of Eric Dickerson's single-season rushing record.Verse, meanwhile, will look to add to his 66 tackles and 4.5 sack total.The Eagles and Rams will square off Sunday at 3 p.m. ET.

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 24: Saquon Barkley #26 of the Philadelphia Eagles runs for a touchdown during the third quarter against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium on November 24, 2024 in Inglewood, California.

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Saquon: Verse hating on Eagles fans 'not the smartest thing'

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