Super Bowl star Williams opts out
Running back Damien Williams became the second Chiefs starter to opt out of the 2020 season because of concerns over the coronavirus.
Williams, 28, was the Chiefs’ leading rusher in 2019 with 498 yards on 111 carries. In the Chiefs’ Super Bowl win over the 49ers, Williams ran for 104 yards and scored two touchdowns in the fourth quarter, including the game-clinching 38-yard run. He scored six touchdowns in three postseason games last season.
♦ Giants offensive tackle Nate Solder opted out of the upcoming season, citing family concerns, including his son’s battle with cancer and his own bout with cancer. He also has a newborn son.
Solder has been the starting left tackle for the Giants each of the last two seasons. He will earn $350,000 this season as a high-risk opt out.
Golladay among 5 Lions on COVID-19 list
Lions Pro Bowl receiver Kenny Golladay and tight end T.J. Hockenson, last year’s firstround pick, were put on the COVID-19/reserve list, one day after the team reported to training camp. The two starters were among five Lions players on that list, along with cornerback Amani Oruwariye, undrafted free agent defensive back Jalen Elliott and rookie punter Arryn Siposs.
Eagles star RT Johnson tests positive
Eagles right tackle Lane Johnson tested positive for COVID-19 but feels “strong and ready to go.”
The three-time Pro Bowl selection was one of three Eagles players put on the NFL’s COVID-19 reserve list, which players are subject to after either a positive test or having been in close contact with an infected person.
LB Beasley missing at Titans camp
Titans outside linebacker Vic Beasley was a no-show on the first day of training camp. According to sources, Beasley has not been in contact with the team yet.
Beasley, who signed a one-year, $9.5 million deal in March, has 37oe sacks in five NFL seasons, including a league-leading 15oe in 2016.
This and that
Niners general manager John Lynch agreed to a new five-year contract with the team that will keep him locked up through the 2024 season. Lynch was named executive of the year last season by the Pro Football Writers Association of America.
♦ Dolphins rookie quarterback Tua Tagovailoa passed his physical when he reported to training camp and will practice without restrictions.