According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Pittsburgh Steelers and linebacker T.J. Watt aren't close to resolving the ongoing contract dispute. The team wants to keep him. However, there are still some glaring issues regarding a new deal, specifically, length and guaranteed money. The 30-year-old is still a top defensive option despite closing in on a decade of service in the National Football League, most recently finishing the 2024 campaign with 11.5 sacks while totaling 61 tackles. With training camp commencing in a few weeks, there is a greater sense of urgency for a deal to get done. If Watt isn't on the field come Week 1, it won't be an ideal scenario for a Steelers defense that is projected to be one of the most potent fantasy units in 2025.

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According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin is still "not happy" with where things stand regarding a new contract. This situation has been ongoing for months, so this is nothing new. Still, with training camp right around the corner, the franchise is running a greater risk of a holdout situation if the wideout doesn't get a pay increase. He is coming off his best season since entering the National Football League, ending the 2024 campaign with 1,096 yards and 13 touchdowns off 82 receptions. McLaurin is currently in line to make $15.5 million this season. However, it will presumably take well over $30 million a year to retain his services moving forward. If McLaurin isn't on the field, it won't be good news for Jayden Daniels, the 2024 NFL Rookie of the Year. McLaurin's potential absence from training camp could also cause his fantasy stock to fall.

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NBCSports.com's Mike Florio reports that Dallas Cowboys wide receiver/kick returner KaVontae Turpin was arrested early Sunday morning on two misdemeanor charges. Turpin faces charges for possession of marijuana and unlawful carrying of a weapon, Florio notes. Not what you want to see. The TCU product was an impactful asset for the Cowboys last season -- particularly in the return game, which garnered him a Pro-Bowl selection. It's unclear whether he'll face repercussions for his crimes, considering the nature of the charges. However, both instances could "trigger potential scrutiny under NFL policies," as Florio states. The 28-year-old's punishment, if any, may not be severe, but what happened undoubtedly diminishes his value currently. It may take some time before we receive a definitive outcome.

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New York Giants tight end Theo Johnson (foot) is hoping the work put in during the offseason will keep him healthy throughout the 2025 campaign. "The big thing for me this year is I want to play 17 games," said Johnson on the Giants Huddle podcast. "That's the number one priority. I've been taking my recovery and my health, what I'm putting in my body and everything, more serious than I ever have." The 24-year-old wasn't a consistent fantasy producer last season. However, he demonstrated some signs of growth and would total 29 catches for 331 yards and one touchdown before sustaining a season-ending foot injury in November. Johnson has more work to do to earn additional snaps, although it appears he has the edge over Greg Dulcich, Daniel Bellinger, among others, to enter Week 1 as the No. 1 tight end on the depth chart. Still, he has a way to go before establishing himself as a week-to-week fantasy starter.

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Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Jermaine Burton continues to make a positive impression on the coaching staff. Head coach Zac Taylor has already touted the wideout's improved growth and maturity this offseason. However, it didn't end there, with offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher being the latest member of the staff to comment on Burton's personal development. "He's got a good look in his eye," stated Pitcher. "He's putting the time in." The 24-year-old, selected with the No. 80 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, had a forgettable rookie campaign, amassing only four catches (14 targets) for 107 yards. He was also held out of three contests while failing to find the end zone. Without question, Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Chase Brown will each command attention from quarterback Joe Burrow. Tight end Mike Gesicki should also be involved. Still, Burton has a chance to climb the depth chart, which could result in fewer snaps for Andrei Iosivas. With that said, Burton has a way to go before earning the trust of fantasy managers, although he's worth monitoring heading into Week 1. His ceiling could rise even more if Chase, Higgins, or Iosivas get injured at some point during the season, giving him streaming potential.

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Tennessee Titans quarterback Cam Ward apparently isn't expecting to be handed the reigns heading into his inaugural campaign. "Cam's not gonna expect it to just be given to him," said offensive tackle JC Latham while speaking of the competition between the rookie and Will Levis. "Will's not just gonna sit over here and say, 'oh, we drafted him, go ahead take it.' Like both of them taking the challenge of trying to really earn the spot and really fight for the spot. It's made them better." Ward, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, has already received praise, especially for his work ethic and leadership. However, it's unknown if his efforts will earn him the right to take over under center come Week 1. With that in mind, Ward's redraft stock isn't as favorable even if he jumps to the top of the depth chart, considering he'll presumably have some growing pains in his first season. On the other hand, he'll likely be the first quarterback off the board in most rookie drafts, even more so for dynasty managers who are willing to be patient as it relates to his development.

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Free-agent wide receiver Chase Claypool (toe) is hoping to sign with an NFL team. The 2020 No. 49 overall pick was spectacular as a rookie, amassing 62 catches for 873 yards and 11 touchdowns. Since then, he hasn't been as productive. finding the end zone only six times. After stops in Pittsburgh, Chicago, and Miami, Claypool was in line to suit up for the Buffalo Bills heading into the 2024 campaign. Unfortunately, he tore a ligament and tendon in his toe before eventually being released by the team. With the injury behind Claypool, he is eager to get back on the field while claiming to be stronger and faster than ever. "I am back to being the strongest and fastest I've ever been and couldn't be more excited to step back out on the field and let my actions speak for themselves," said the 26-year-old. "I deeply and truly believe that the pieces will align, and I will work my way into the position to show off what's been suppressed these last two years." It appears he is more motivated than ever. Although Claypool should see attention from fantasy managers if he signs with a club, he could have a tough time getting close to the level of production he had in his inaugural year. Still, the wideout is worth monitoring in case he ends up inking a deal with a team where he'll have the opportunity to get involved.

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In a recent episode of the 'Locked On Ravens' podcast, former Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Qadry Ismail shared his thoughts on sixth-round rookie wideout LaJohntay Wester, noting he could become a valuable weapon for quarterback Lamar Jackson. Wester reportedly took well to punt returns during OTAs, and also made a few plays in the passing game that caught the eye of the former athlete. Ismail also noted that Wester "hasn't looked overwhelmed by anything thrown at him." The 23-year-old broke out during his final season with Florida Atlantic in 2023 (108/1,168/8) but took a slight step back upon his transfer to Colorado in 2024. Baltimore's pass-catching corps isn't one that projects to have much vacant playing time, but the rookie seems bound for at least a role on special teams. He's little more than a deep dynasty stash currently.

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According to USA Today's Tyler Dragon, the Cincinnati Bengals and rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart have had recent contract discussions. Unfortunately, nothing came from the talks, with Dragon adding that "a resolution doesn't appear to be in sight." Both sides remain at a stalemate regarding "language" in Stewart's contract, which is reportedly different from Cincinnati's selections in previous years. The 2025 No. 17 overall pick refused to participate in mandatory minicamp. It also seems he isn't a lock to show up at training camp. The Bengals made moves to bolster the offense by giving new deals to Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Mike Gesicki. However, the franchise has pumped the brakes on prioritizing contracts on the defensive side of the ball, considering defensive end Trey Hendrickson is also seeking a new deal of his own. With that said, Cincinnati has one of the best offenses in the National Football League. On the other hand, the defense needs work, although things may not improve if Stewart continues to miss out on valuable practice time.

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In a recent appearance on the 'Bussin' with the Boys' podcast, San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle sang the praises of rookie wide receiver Isaiah Neyor. "He's a freak. He was running a route, and he got nine and a half yards in two strides. It was insane," said Kittle. "We watched it ten times in the tight end room. We were like 'how is he doing this?' At the bare minimum, he should make the practice squad. He's a freak." Neyor signed with the 49ers back in April as an undrafted free agent out of Nebraska, and while his college stats won't blow you away, the 24-year-old's athleticism is enough to do so (99th percentile speed score). It won't be easy to find playing time in a crowded room of viable pass-catchers, but the 6-foot-4 rookie should undoubtedly be on fantasy managers' radars in dynasty leagues.

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Nick Harris of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that Dallas Cowboys running back Miles Sanders split first-team work during mandatory minicamp with backfield mate Javonte Williams. Dallas is projected to have one of the worst RB rooms in the league this season, headlined by Sanders, Williams, and fifth-round rookie Jaydon Blue. Blue has apparently taken to the NFL quickly, but one of the veterans projects to begin the season as Dallas' lead back. It seems more likely that this backfield is destined for a running-back-by-committee approach, which would obviously dent the value of all three participants. For now, expect a primary split between the two vets, with Sanders handling passing situations and the Cowboys turning to Williams more often than not for short-yardage work.

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AtoZSports.com's Easton Freeze reports that the Tennessee Titans may alter the role that rookie wide receiver Chimere Dike played on the field during his time at college. The 23-year-old has speed for days and was deployed on a steady diet of nine routes during his tenure at the collegiate level. Rightfully so, when you consider he averaged a whopping 18.6 yards per reception -- good for a top-20 mark in the FBS. However, Freeze notes that Tennessee could opt to use him as a big-slot asset and that it wouldn't be surprising to see him garner a role early on in the offense due to his versatility. Dike's athleticism makes him an enticing option, and the Titans' lack of legitimate receiving weapons only furthers the intrigue. The rookie's playing time could be sparse to start, but he should get a decent chance at snaps eventually. He's an interesting dynasty dart-throw.

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Per Jason Reed of BoltBeat.com, Los Angeles Chargers rookie wide receiver Keandre Lambert-Smith is not guaranteed a spot on the team's 53-man roster. Reed reports that the fifth-round pick in April's draft is currently in a roster battle with four other wideouts for, presumably, the final spot in LA's WR corps. Lambert-Smith profiles as more of a developmental prospect, never having eclipsed 53 receptions or 1,000 yards across five years at two schools (Penn State, Auburn). However, he carries a leg up on fellow pass-catchers Jalen Reagor and Brenden Rice due to his status as a rookie. Reed notes the Chargers could decide to carry seven wide receivers on their active roster, though that'd be a rare occurrence. For now, the 23-year-old will have to show out during training camp to ensure his spot with Los Angeles.

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Despite the fact that Los Angeles Rams outside linebacker Byron Young has already had two strong seasons in the NFL with 15.5 sacks, outside linebackers coach Joe Coniglio said he's noticed how "intentional" Young has been going into his third season in the NFL. Coniglio said he's challenged the former third-rounder to continue to work on his "consistency," because "when he's at his best, it's a lot of fun to watch." "I think he's going to take another step forward in regards to his game, his ability to affect games, his ability to disrupt offenses and be the player that he's capable of being," Coniglio said. The 27-year-old has 123 tackles (76 solo), 15.5 sacks, 20 tackles for loss, 32 QB hits, three forced fumbles and a fumble recovery in 34 games (32 starts) in his first two years. Young is one of the Rams' key young pass-rushers.

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ESPN's Jenna Laine writes that Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker SirVocea Dennis had one of the most impressive offseasons of any defender on the team. "First day of OTAs, made one of the best plays I've ever seen a linebacker make," linebacker Anthony Walker Jr. said. "He's special, man. Very cerebral and knows the game very well. Can really do everything on the field as a pass dropper, a blitzer and a run defender." Dennis only played in four games in 2024 due to a season-ending shoulder injury that he suffered in Week 4, and the middle of Tampa's defense was more vulnerable as a result. The 25-year-old was selected in the fifth round (153rd overall) in 2023 out of Pittsburgh. He looked like he was on his way toward a breakout season last year before his injury, as he had 22 tackles (14 solo) and a sack in essentially only three games.

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Arizona Cardinals rookie fourth-round inside linebacker Cody Simon has caught the attention of head coach Jonathan Gannon in a short amount of time this offseason, according to ESPN's Josh Weinfuss. "He's definitely flashed here," Gannon said. "We got him playing a couple different spots, so that's good. He is playing on fourth down right now, so he is learning all that. He's eager to learn. He doesn't make mistakes twice and he's got juice. He's physical, just like all those guys. Long way to go. But I like where he is at." The 23-year-old has also taken on the responsibility of wearing the green dot, which has added to the steep learning curve heading into his first year in the NFL. The Ohio State product was plenty productive on college for the Buckeyes, but even though he's flashed during the offseason program, he might have to wait for a full-time role in Arizona.

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Pittsburgh Steelers All-Pro pass-rusher T.J. Watt is due to around $21 million in the last year of his current contract, but the question for the Steelers is whether they are willing to pay a player that will turn 31 this fall upwards of $40 million per year on a new extension. NFL Network's Tom Pelissero believes that the two sides will get something done before either training camp or the start of the 2025 regular season, and when it is done, it will reset the edge-rush market. Watt has made the Pro Bowl each of the last seven seasons and has been an All-Pro four times in his career while leading the NFL in sacks in three of the last five years. The downside is he has an extensive injury history and dropped to 11.5 sacks in 17 regular-season starts a year ago. The Steelers and Watt are currently in a stalemate, but with Pittsburgh all-in on 2025, it's highly unlikely that Watt will be traded.

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NFL.com's Coral Smith reports that the Pittsburgh Steelers have signed general manager Omar Khan to a new three-year contract on Thursday. The financial details were not noted. Khan has been a member of the Steelers' organization since 2001, but took over his current role in 2022 from predecessor Kevin Colbert. The 48-year-old, known for his aggressive offseason moves, has undoubtedly been entertaining as the team's GM. However, despite continuing the franchise's winning ways, playoff wins -- particularly deep playoff runs -- have been the issue. The hope is that will change in 2025, with a revamped wide receiver room led by DK Metcalf, veteran signal-caller Aaron Rodgers at the helm, and the recent acquisition of tight end Jonnu Smith. Still, they share a division with two of the more brutal AFC squads (Bengals, Ravens). Pittsburgh hasn't won more than ten games or sat atop the AFC North since 2020, but they're pushing their chips all-in ahead of the upcoming campaign.

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Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver coach Zach Azzanni noted during the team's minicamp that he believes wide receiver Calvin Austin III is poised to step into the offense's No. 2 pass-catching role. "I think that '2' spot is all Calvin's right now," said Azzanni. The Memphis alum put together his best statistical season in 2024 with a decent 36/548/4 line as the team's third-leading wideout. However, even with the departure of ex-teammate George Pickens vacating 103 targets, it won't be an easy path to fantasy relevance. Pickens was replaced by DK Metcalf, who will garner his fair share of looks, and Austin III will now have to contend with two viable options at tight end in Pat Freiermuth and the newly acquired Jonnu Smith. The 26-year-old offers the most juice on the team, but Pittsburgh's propensity to run and productive teammates will likely limit his fantasy value outside of best ball formats.

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ESPN's David Newton writes that it was obvious to teammates that Carolina Panthers second-year linebacker Chau Smith-Wade had a stellar offseason and will be a factor for the team in 2025. "Man, I think he's been the most impressive player," Pro Bowl cornerback Jaycee Horn said. "Chau took advantage of an opportunity," head coach Dave Canales said. "He made tackles. He had an opportunity on an interception, and he made it." Newton adds that Smith-Wade's ability to play corner, nickel and safety makes him even more valuable to a young defense that finished last in the NFL in 2024. The 22-year-old ended his rookie campaign on Injured Reserve in December due to an illness. The former fifth-rounder finished 2024 with 39 tackles (24 solo) an interception and a forced fumble in 14 games (four starts). Smith-Wade had taken over the slot role before his illness sidelined him.

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