Brandon Aiyuk and the 49ers, it’s over
Brandon Aiyuk can pack his bags (they may already be) because he won’t play for the 49ers again! In any case, this is what John Lynch (GM) said during a press conference.
“The plan regarding the transaction will be disclosed in due course. I think it’s safe to say he played his last game for the Niners. It’s unfortunate, the situation has gone badly. I will analyze in depth what could have been done differently, but sometimes it just doesn’t work. I think that’s what happened in this case. »
Aiyuk had a falling out during 2024 training camp before signing a four-year, $120 million contract extension before the start of the season. He appeared in seven games before his injury. This season, the player has never been able to set foot on the pitch again. The 49ers voided the financial guarantee on Aiyuk’s contract last summer after he failed to attend rehab sessions and meetings, and ultimately placed him on the reserve list.
For his part, Kyle Shanahan expressed his incomprehension.
“There is no real explanation, because it is very difficult for us to understand, as it is for everyone. I have never seen that in my 22 years of career. It is therefore regrettable. It’s confusing. But ultimately, we say to ourselves that it is like that. We try as best we can to understand what we don’t understand, but we still don’t really understand it. Finally, we understand that we have to move forward with the team, that’s what is always the most important. »
Brian Flores extends with the Vikings
Brian Flores and the Vikings have agreed to a new contract according to NFL Network. Flores can therefore remain defensive coordinator if he wishes. He has held this position for three seasons and has made the Vikings one of the most successful defenses in the league.
On the other hand, this agreement does not definitively seal the future of Brian Flores. The American media reports that the coach remains in the running for a head coach position. He is notably competing for the position with the Steelers and the Ravens. Flores would have agreed with the Vikings, if a head coach position is offered to him, he will take it. If not, he will return to Minnesota to the delight of the franchise.
Seahawks vs Rams : Sam Darnold limité, Byron Young absent
A few days before the NFC conference finals, the Seahawks and Rams take stock of the status of players in training.
Centle Seahawksaccording to PFT, Seattle will be careful with Sam Darnold (QB) in training this week. The quarterback showed a little warning of an oblique last week. This did not prevent him from playing against San Francisco but Seattle will not take any risks and the pitcher will be limited.
On the other hand, there is a small hint of concern on the side of the left tackle position. Indeed, Charles Cross (foot), Josh Jones (knee) and Amari Knight (knee) did not train this Wednesday! Seattle therefore does not have a left tackle at the moment. A situation to monitor a few days before the NFC final. Also note that George Olani (RB), amissing since week 12 due to ischio injury, comes off the injured list. He will be able to train before potentially being activated in the main squad to replace Zach Charbonnet.
At the Rams, Byron Young (OLB, knee) and Quentin Lake (S, ill) were absent from practice on Wednesday. Sean McVay believes Young will be able to play Sunday but could be limited like last week. Emmanuel Forbes (CB, shoulder) is limited in training. The cornerback only played 4 snaps during the divisional round.
Patriots vs. Broncos: Mack Hollins not returning, JK Dobbins limited
The Patriots were still deprived of Mack Hollins (WR, abdomen), absent for several matches. The New England franchise also had to do without Carlton Davis (CB) absent due to concussion. The participation of both players this weekend is uncertain.
On the Broncos side, JK Dobbins (RB, pied) was back in training for the first time since week 10! The runner was limited but could well make his return for the conference finals. Pat Bryan (WR, commotion), Alex Forsyth (C, cheville) et Troy Franklin (Wr, ischio) were also limited but should be able to hold their place on Sunday. Finally, Denver opened the return window for Luke Wattenberg. Injured since Christmas, the Broncos’ starting center has a small chance of being able to play in the final.
Atlanta has its new offensive coordinator, search continues for general manager
The Falcons and Kevin Stefanski have their new offensive coordinator. This is Tommy Rees. A well-known profile of the head coach since Rees was his offensive coordinator with the Browns last year. The duo did not particularly shine in Cleveland… Let’s hope for the fans that things are different in Atlanta.
Now the Falcons are working to find a general manager. According to PFT, Atlanta has requested permission to meet with assistants Ian Cunningham (Eagles), James Liipfert (Texans), Andy Weidl (Steelers) and Matt Bradway (Chiefs). 49ers scouting and operations manager Josh Williams was also asked.
Second interview for Anthony Campanile with the Cardinals
According to Ian Rapoport (NFL Media), the Cardinals have invited Anthony Campanile (DC, Jaguars) to a second interview for the position of head coach. The Ravens have also shown interest in the coach.
Interview with the Eagles for Matt Nagy
While he may have had an opening at Tennessee for a head coaching job, Matt Nagy saw the Titans offer the job to Robert Saleh. At the same time, the Chiefs brought back Eric Bienemy as offensive coordinator. According to Mike Garafolo Nagy is therefore looking for an opportunity among the vacant positions. He has already spoken with the Eagles.
Brian Daboll doesn’t want the Eagles
Brian Daboll met with the Bills to try to become their new head coach. But if that doesn’t work, the former Giants head coach seems to have an idea of what’s next. According to ESPNDaboll reportedly announced that he does not want to become the Eagles’ offensive coordinator. On the other hand, he would be interested in the position of offensive coordinator of the Titans.
49ers: Gus Bradley favorite for defensive coordinator position
With the departure of Robert Saleh, the 49ers are looking for a new defensive coordinator. And the favorite for the job seems to already be in the house. This is Gus Bradley who joined the franchise this year. Bradley is an experienced coach with 12 years as defensive coordinator (Seahawks, Chargers, Colts, Chargers, Raiders) and 4 as head coach (Jaguars).
Kyle Shanahan (HC) confirmed this at a press conference.
“I would say we cast a wide net, but Gus is the obvious candidate for everyone, and for us as well. Gus would be the leading internal candidate. We are delighted to have selected it. We will follow the whole process. There are obligations to fulfill and wishes to take into account. So we hope that we can finalize the process quickly. »
Nick Caley expected to remain offensive coordinator in Houston
After the offensive disaster in the playoffs against the Patriots, Demeco Ryans (head coach) did not want to comment on the composition of his staff for next season. At a press conference, Nick Caserio (general manager) showed more guarantee. According to PFT, the manager confided that he expected the return of Nick Caley as offensive coordinator.
Brian Callahan meets the Buccaneers for a second time
While his father, Bill, has just joined Atlanta, Brian Callahan is preparing to meet the Buccaneers a second time for the position of offensive coordinator according to Albert Breer. Tampa Bay also spoke with Dan Pitcher (OC, Bengals) and Zac Robinson this Wednesday.
Jake Ferguson au Pro Bowl
The NFL announces that Jake Ferguson (TE, Cowboys) is joining the NFC roster for the next Pro Bowl. The Cowboys tight end replaces George Kittle who suffered an Achilles tendon injury last week.
This is Ferguson’s second Pro Bowl appearance. He will join his Cowboys colleagues: Dak Prescott, George Pickens, Tyler Smith, Quinnen Williams and Brandon Aubrey.
Indianapolis conserve le NFL Scouting Combine
The NFL announces that the NFL Scouting Combine will remain in Indianapolis and at Lucas Oil Stadium for the years 2027 and 2028. The agreement between the city and the NFL ended this year but both camps wanted to continue maintaining the event in Indianapolis.
It must be said that the Indiana city has hosted the Combine since 1987. There is little reason to change a formula that works. This year, the Combine will take place from February 23 to March 2.
