Patriots ‘ready to burn some cash’
As the Patriots tumbled to the bottom of the league last season, they simultaneously ranked near the bottom of the NFL in cash spending.
While the Pats may or may not rebound as a winning team in 2024, don’t expect them to remain among the league’s cheaper teams next season.
“We’re bringing in talent, 1,000 percent. We have a lot of cap space — and cash,” Patriots coach Jerod Mayo said. “We’re ready to burn some cash!”
The Patriots are scheduled to have $66 million in cap space this offseason, fourth-most in the NFL.
Titans hire Callahan as coach
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Titans agreed to hire Cincinnati Bengals offensive coordinator Brian Callahan as their head coach, a source said. Callahan replaces Mike Vrabel, who was fired on Jan. 9 after six seasons.
Chargers, Harbaugh talk again
The Chargers are expected to meet with Jim Harbaugh a second time regarding their head coaching position, a source said. The Michigan coach was one of 15 candidates in L.A.’S first round of interviews.
49ers’ Samuel has no fracture
SANTA CLARA, Calif. — The 49ers said the injured left shoulder of wide receiver Deebo Samuel is not fractured, but coach Kyle Shanahan still isn’t sure if he’ll be good to go for the NFC championship game Sunday against the Detroit Lions.
Sirianni staying Eagles coach
The Philadelphia Eagles seem set to run it back with Nick Sirianni.
Sirianni is scheduled to address the media Wednesday at an end-ofseason news conference, indicating the embattled head coach will return for the 2024 season.
Browns GM wants Flacco back
BEREA, Ohio — Joe Flacco's short, surprising stint with the Browns could lead to a second season in Cleveland — maybe as Deshaun Watson's backup.
General manager Andrew Berry said that he would “absolutely love” to re-sign the 39-year-old Flacco, who went 4-1 as a starter and helped the Browns make the playoffs after Watson suffered a season-ending shoulder injury. Berry also made it clear the Browns intend to keep star running back Nick Chubb, who suffered a gruesome, season-ending knee injury in Week 2 at Pittsburgh.
Jags add Nielsen to lead ‘D’
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jacksonville Jaguars hired Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen for the same position.
Panthers promote Morgan
Carolina owner David Tepper promoted Dan Morgan, the team’s former assistant GM, to President of Football Operations and general manager of the Panthers.
Retrial begins in Smith case
NEW ORLEANS — Jury selection was underway in the manslaughter retrial for the man who fatally shot Saints star Will Smith almost eight years ago.
Corey Perry signs with Oilers
EDMONTON, Alberta — The Edmonton Oilers signed Corey Perry for the remainder of the season, adding the veteran winger to the hottest team in the NHL nearly two months since the Chicago Blackhawks terminated his contract for unacceptable conduct. Perry, 38, signed a pro-rated deal for the league minimum $775,000.
Cavs rookie Bates suspended
CLEVELAND — Cavaliers rookie forward Emoni Bates was suspended two games without pay by the NBA G League for going into the stands following his game with the Cleveland Charge over the weekend.