NFL Rumors: Ravens, J.K. Dobbins working on an extension?
Baltimore Ravens running back J.K. Dobbins is currently on the PUP list as he recovers from a knee injury, but could a contract extension be in order for the 24-year-old?
It's a well-known fact that the running back market is ice cold. However, the Ravens system is a unique one that is heavily oriented on the rushing attack. Add in the fact that Dobbins is just 24, rather than on the wrong side of 28, and a new deal could make some sense for both sides.
The one issue holding back a new contract is likely Dobbins injury history. He's incredibly effective when healthy, but he's had a tough time remaining on the field next to Lamar Jackson. If the Ravens want to keep their 1-2 rushing duo in tact, extending Dobbins to a team-friendly deal is the best way to do so.
Dobbins is in the final year of his contract. Any contract extension done before the season would benefit both sides, as Dobbins surely doesn't want this hanging over his head the entire campaign. The Ravens did right by Lamar Jackson, signing him to a then-record deal. They also added capable weapons to his steed in Odell Beckham Jr. and more. Their next step, assuming Dobbins doesn't have unrealistic expectations regarding said new contract, should be to ink Jackson's running mate.
NFL Rumors: Davante Adams avoids disaster at Raiders camp
Las Vegas Raiders star wide receiver Davante Adams has had a turbulent offseason. Adams openly admitted he was not thrilled with the Raiders decision to let Derek Carr walk, or allow Aaron Rodgers to seek a trade to the Jets, rather than Sin City. Jimmy Garoppolo was not his top quarterback choice, but alas. Adams is in camp and ready to register another All-Pro season, barring he can stay healthy.
On Friday, Adams suffered what at the time seemed like a concerning leg injury. Thankfully, Josh McDaniels stated it's not anything of the sort.
"I don't think it was crazy serious," McDaniels said after practice, per The Athletic. "It was a bang-bang play."
Adams has missed just 11 games in nine seasons, so any time out due to injury would be very unlike him. Expect Las Vegas to remain cautious with their top weapon, perhaps keeping him out of preseason action — barring that wasn't their plan already.
In a crowded division featuring the Chiefs, Chargers and Broncos, the Raiders cannot afford any missteps. Adams remaining healthy and forming a new connection with Garoppolo is paramount to establishing the threat of the passing game.
NFL Rumors: Chris Jones receives a contract offer from Chiefs
Chris Jones absence looms large over Kansas City Chiefs training camp. The Chiefs are missing their sack artist, who is in search of a new contract which will make him among the highest-paid defensive tackles in football. It's unclear if Jones himself expects Aaron Donald money — that would make him the highest-paid defensive player in football — or somewhere in the range of what Quinnen Williams received from the New York Jets this offseason.
Jones had 15.5 sacks last season in arguably his best campaign to date. He's on the wrong side of 30 years old, and wants to cash in one last time rather than be forced to play on the franchise tag in 2024. A long-term deal could be beneficial to both sides, but only if it allows Brett Veach the sort of financial flexibility needed to keep adding to the roster. Dynasties are not built overnight, but they can be torn down in one full swoop if the wrong choices are made. Veach doesn't want that on his conscious.
In an appearance on the Pat McAfee show, NFL insider Ian Rapoport disclosed that Jones has received an offer from the Chiefs, though it's unclear if it met Jones high expectations.
For the Chiefs part, Veach and the Hunt family have made it clear they don't intend on trading Jones, and they want him to retire in Kansas City. That would infer a long-term commitment is in their interest, as well.
"He's a remarkable player, aiming for a substantial contract. He absolutely deserves it, and that's not surprising in the least," Veach said, per The Kansas City Star. "Nevertheless, there are certain obstacles we need to surmount in order to ensure the stability of our short- and long-term strategies. But one thing remains steadfast – our commitment to exhaust all avenues to reach an agreement. That's how highly we value him."
That's all fine and good, but unless Kansas City increases their offer — or Jones comes down off his asking price — this holdout won't end anytime soon.