DJ Uiagalelei Transfers to FSU
In the wake of a riveting season that culminated in a rather intense conclusion, Florida State University’s football program received a much-needed boost with some exhilarating news for the upcoming season. The anticipation and optimism for the future soared as DJ Uiagalelei, a standout quarterback from the Hawaiian islands, will join the Florida State Seminoles in 2024. It’s undeniably an electrifying way to usher in the new year for the Seminoles’ faithful.
Photo Cred: Pro Football Network
Having previously showcased his athletic prowess at both Clemson and Oregon State, Uiagalelei brings a wealth of experience and talent to the Seminoles roster. The statistics from his previous season only serve to underscore the immense potential he carries. He accumulating an impressive 2,638 yards, orchestrating 21 touchdowns with a mere seven interceptions. Boasting an 80.6 Quarterback Rating (QBR), Uiagalelei stands as a formidable force on the field. Such a stellar performance suggests he could ascend to greatness in the garnet and gold uniform.
Beyond the numerical achievements, Uiagalelei’s dual-threat capabilities further enhance his allure. His adeptness at passing and rushing sets him apart. He should seamlessly integrate into Coach Mike Norvell’s offensive strategy. With Norvell at the helm, there’s an exciting prospect of witnessing the transformation of Uiagalelei into an even more polished and refined quarterback. Norvell has demonstrated his ability to nurture and develop quarterback talent, evident in the progress of Jordan Travis.
Photo Cred: ESPN
He commands a formidable arm with a throws that defies time. Despite his substantial build, he showcases a streamlined and well-proportioned physique, yet his expertise transcends sheer power. Displaying exceptional finesse, he demonstrates remarkable touch and accuracy, effortlessly maneuvering the football across all three tiers of the field. Moreover, his knack for passing imparts an extraordinary organic quality to his gameplay, propelling him to a pinnacle of quarterbacking excellence that surpasses the sheer strength of his arm.
The synergy between Uiagalelei and Norvell’s coaching prowess is poised to create a formidable quarterback-coach tandem that will undoubtedly captivate fans and opponents in the forthcoming season. As the Seminoles embark on this promising journey, the addition of DJ Uiagalelei adds an extra layer of excitement and anticipation, setting the stage for a potentially remarkable season in 2024.
Top Candidates for NFL Head Coaching Openings
JIM HARBAUGH’S FUTURE IN MICHIGAN UNDER SCRUTINY
Photo Cred: USA Today
As the annual cycle of speculation envelops the future of the University of Michigan’s head football coach, the NCAA may play apart of this. Recent off-the-field controversies, including an alleged sign-stealing scandal and recruiting violations, have injected uncertainty into Harbaugh’s trajectory. These developments may prompt the accomplished coach to contemplate departing from the college coaching arena. Michigan could win the National Championship and fulfill his goal. Actions, many posit, may speak louder than words in Harbaugh’s case. This year could witness the seasoned coach seriously considering a return to the National Football League (NFL), where he previously tasted success as the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers from 2011 to 2014.
BEN JOHNSON, THE COACHING GEM OF DETROIT LIONS
Photo Cred: BR
Ben Johnson has been among the coveted coaching candidates since last year’s cycle. Assuming the OC role in 2022, the 37-year-old swiftly orchestrated a transformation, turning the Lions’ offense into a top-performing unit. Despite fielding inquiries from several teams last year, Johnson opted to remain in Detroit. The Lions have a prolific offense and just secured its division title for the first time in three decades. His diverse coaching experience as a quarterback coach to receivers and tight ends aligns seamlessly with the prevailing preference for bright, young offensive minds as potential head coaching prospects.
THE DAVE CANALES INFLUENCE SPREADS TO TAMPA BAY
Photo Cred: Fox
After spending 13 years in Seattle, Dave Canales transitioned to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as their offensive coordinator in the past offseason. The 42-year-old, renowned for his quarterback expertise, played a pivotal role in Geno Smith’s Comeback Player of the Year season. In Tampa, Canales has replicated his success by assisting Baker Mayfield in revitalizing his career. With an energetic and positive demeanor reminiscent of his former mentor, Pete Carroll, Canales emerges as a compelling candidate in the current coaching cycle. He’ll bring a wealth of experience and success.
MIKE MACDONALD’S DEFENSIVE EXPERTISE IN DEMAND
Photo Cred: Ravens
Mike Macdonald had a successful stint as the defensive coordinator at the University of Michigan in 2021 under the guidance of head coach John Harbaugh. He returned to the Baltimore Ravens last season to be their defensive coordinator. At 36, he has orchestrated a remarkable transformation of the Ravens’ defense into one of the league’s most formidable units. Allowing a league-low 16.4 points per game and accumulating 57 sacks and 29 takeaways, Macdonald’s rapid rise in 2023 positions him as a top candidate, particularly for teams looking for a young and defensive-minded leader.
DAN QUINN’S STRATEGIC APPROACH IN DALLAS
Photo Cred: USA Today
Former Atlanta Falcons head coach Dan Quinn has been a sought-after coaching candidate for the past two years, emphasizing his selective approach to job opportunities. Quinn has overseen a robust defense as the Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator for three years. While an eventual departure seems inevitable, the key question revolves around the timing and whether a desirable job will entice him away from the satisfaction he finds in Dallas, where he ranks among the highest-paid defensive coordinators in the NFL.
RAHEEM MORRIS AND THE RAMS’ UNEXPECTED ASCENT
Photo Cred: USA Today
The Los Angeles Rams have defied expectations this season with their remarkable performance, rebuilding the roster with mid-to-late-round draft picks and undrafted players after a quiet offseason. Raheem Morris serves as the Rams’ defensive coordinator and has shown that, despite roster turnover, he can make a great defense. The team’s unique journey from champions, to bottom feeders, to contenders once again shows Morris’ coaching profile. All of this makes him a noteworthy figure in the coaching landscape and a potential candidate for teams seeking fresh and innovative leadership.
Anticipating a Clash of Titans: Michigan vs. Washington in the College Football Playoff Semifinal
In the upcoming College Football Playoff showdown between Michigan and Washington, fans are gearing up for a great game. The key question looming over this matchup is whether the Washington Huskies can stand their ground against the formidable defensive line of the Michigan Wolverines, especially after Michigan’s dominant performance against Alabama in the Rose Bowl.
Photo Cred: Business Insider
Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. stole the spotlight with an impressive 430 passing yards, surpassing Michigan’s overall offensive output of 351 yards. However, the Wolverines’ defense showcased its prowess by limiting Alabama to 288 yards, including a mere 115 passing yards. Alabama’s Jalen Milroe faced adversity with six sacks orchestrated by Michigan’s strategic defensive plays. If Michigan can replicate this pressure, it could give them a crucial advantage, allowing more players to focus on pass coverage.
J.J. McCarthy, Michigan’s standout passer, has consistently demonstrated reliability. RB Blake Corum has over 3,500 yards rushing in the past three seasons, leads the nation with 25 rushing touchdowns, and set a Michigan single-season record with those rushing TDs. Despite facing a sign-stealing scandal that resulted in a three-game suspension for HC Jim Harbaugh, Michigan consistently have held opponents to fewer than 24 points in a game.
Photo Cred: Fox News
However, Washington’s run game faces challenges, averaging only 3.3 yards per carry against a formidable Texas defense that was ranked fifth in yards per carry allowed. Michigan, entering the Rose Bowl ranked sixth in defensive yards per carry, poses a significant challenge for Washington’s ground game. Can Washington withstand the Wolverines’ trench prowess and disrupt their ground assault, forcing them to rely on aerial attacks?
The Huskies, a team destined for success, have secured five consecutive one-possession games, including a narrow victory over Texas in the semifinals. Penix, a Heisman Trophy finalist, is in his final collegiate season. Partnering with HC Kalen DeBoer, their collaboration from their time together at Indiana, has proven fruitful for Washington. The team boasts an outstanding trio of receivers in Rome Odunze, Ja’Lynn Polk, and Jalen McMillan. While Washington’s No. 1 passing offense defines their identity, the team consistently delivered crucial stops throughout the season.
Photo Cred: Seattle Times
As Michigan aims to replicate its Rose Bowl success, Washington seeks solutions to neutralize the Wolverines’ potent offensive and defensive fronts. The outcome of this clash will likely hinge on each team’s ability to exploit the opposing weaknesses, making this semifinal showdown a must-watch spectacle in the College Football Playoff.
What To Look For – Week 18
Released by the NFL:
NEW YORK –– Jan. 4, 2024 –– Below are among the milestones that can be reached in Week 18 of the 2023 NFL season:
- Rushing quarterbacks (Josh Allen & Jalen Hurts)
- Houston (C.J. Stroud)
- Young quarterbacks with 4,000+ passing yards (five players)
- Miami (Tyreek Hill)
- Dallas (CeeDee Lamb)
- Las Vegas (Davante Adams)
- L.A. Rams (Puka Nacua)
- Detroit (Sam LaPorta)
- Jacksonville (Evan Engram)
ALLEN & HURTS RUSHING INTO THE RECORD BOOKS
Buffalo quarterback JOSH ALLEN and Philadelphia quarterback JALEN HURTS each have 15 rushing touchdowns, tied for the most by a quarterback in a season in NFL history. In total, quarterbacks have rushed for 112 touchdowns this season. This marks the third season all-time with at least 100 rushing touchdowns by quarterbacks, joining 2020 (126) and 2022 (105).
The quarterbacks with the most rushing touchdowns in a season in NFL history are:
| PLAYER | TEAM | SEASON | RUSH TDs |
| Josh Allen | Buffalo | 2023 | 15* |
| Jalen Hurts | Philadelphia | 2023 | 15* |
| Cam Newton | Carolina | 2011 | 14 |
| *Entering Week 18 | |||
Allen has a rushing touchdown in five consecutive games. On Sunday night in Miami (8:20 p.m. ET, NBC), he can become the second quarterback in the Super Bowl era with a rushing touchdown in six consecutive games, joining JUSTIN FIELDS (six consecutive games in 2022).
Allen ranks second among quarterbacks all-time with 53 career rushing touchdowns, trailing only Newton (75 rushing touchdowns). Hurts ranks fourth with 41 rushing touchdowns. With two rushing touchdowns in Week 18 at the New York Giants (4:25 p.m. ET, CBS), he can tie Pro Football Hall of Famer STEVE YOUNG (43 rushing touchdowns) for the third-most rushing touchdowns by a quarterback in NFL history.
Additionally, with two rushing touchdowns, Hurts would become the first quarterback all-time with multiple rushing touchdowns in five games in a season.
The quarterbacks with the most rushing touchdowns in NFL history are:
| PLAYER | RUSH TDs |
| Cam Newton | 75 |
| Josh Allen | 53* |
| Steve YoungHOF | 43 |
| Jalen Hurts | 41* |
| Jack Kemp | 40 |
| *Active | |
Allen enters Week 18 with 3,947 passing yards and 27 touchdown passes. On Sunday night, he can join DREW BREES (nine consecutive seasons from 2008-16) as the only players in NFL history with at least 4,000 passing yards and 30 touchdown passes in four consecutive seasons.
Allen has 42 combined passing and rushing touchdowns this season and had 45 combined touchdowns in 2020. With three touchdowns in Week 18, he can become the fifth quarterback in NFL history with at least 45 combined passing and rushing touchdowns in multiple career seasons, joining TOM BRADY (2007 and 2021), PATRICK MAHOMES (2018 and 2022), Pro Football Hall of Famer PEYTON MANNING (2004 and 2013), and AARON RODGERS (2011 and 2020).
Josh Allen has 165 touchdown passes since entering the NFL in 2018. With three touchdown passes this week, he can surpass Pro Football Hall of Famer PEYTON MANNING (167 touchdown passes) for the third-most by a player in his first six seasons in NFL history. Only Pro Football Hall of Famer DAN MARINO (196 touchdown passes) and PATRICK MAHOMES (192) have more.
The players with the most touchdown passes in their first six seasons in NFL history:
| PLAYER | TEAM | PASS TDs | |
| Dan MarinoHOF | Miami | 196 | |
| Patrick Mahomes | Kansas City | 192 | |
| Peyton ManningHOF | Indianapolis | 167 | |
| Josh Allen | Buffalo | 165* | |
| *In sixth season | |||
Photo Cred: WROC TV
STROUD AND THE TEXANS ON VERGE OF MILESTONES
With a win on Saturday night against Indianapolis (8:15 p.m. ET, ESPN/ABC), the HOUSTON TEXANS, led by first-year head coach DEMECO RYANS and rookie quarterback C.J. STROUD, can become the first team with a rookie head coach and qualifying rookie quarterback to make the postseason since the 2012 INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (CHUCK PAGANO and ANDREW LUCK).
Stroud has 3,844 passing yards this season and, on Sunday, he can become the fifth rookie all-time to reach 4,000 passing yards.
Photo Cred: On3.com
The rookies with the most passing yards in NFL history are:
| PLAYER | TEAM | SEASON | PASSING YARDS | |
| Andrew Luck | Indianapolis | 2012 | 4,374 | |
| Justin Hebert | L.A. Chargers | 2020 | 4,336 | |
| Cam Newton | Carolina | 2011 | 4,051 | |
| Jameis Winston | Tampa Bay | 2015 | 4,042 | |
| C.J. Stroud | Houston | 2023 | 3,844* | |
| *Entering Week 18 | ||||
Stroud has six games with at least 300 passing yards, tied for the most in the league this season. With 300 passing yards in Week 18, Stroud will surpass ANDREW LUCK (six games in 2012) for the second-most 300-yard games ever by a rookie. Only JUSTIN HERBERT (eight in 2020) has more.
C.J. Stroud enters Week 18 with a 99.0 passer rating and can join DAK PRESCOTT (104.9 rating in 2016), ROBERT GRIFFIN III (102.4 in 2012), and RUSSELL WILSON (100.0 in 2012) as the only qualifying rookie quarterbacks with a passer rating of 100 or higher.
YOUNG QUARTERBACKS ON VERGE OF 4,000 YARDS
Two quarterbacks aged 25 or younger – Miami’s TUA TAGOVAILOA (4,451 passing yards, age 25) and San Francisco’s BROCK PURDY (4,280, age 24) – have already reached 4,000 passing yards this season. Five other quarterbacks aged 25 or younger – Houston’s C.J. STROUD (3,844, age 22), Green Bay’s JORDAN LOVE (3,843, age 25), Philadelphia’s JALEN HURTS (3,803, age 25), Washington’s SAM HOWELL (3,793, age 23), and Jacksonville’s TREVOR LAWRENCE (3,736, age 24) are within 300 passing yards of the 4,000-yard mark entering Week 18.
The 2023 season can become the first season in NFL history with five or more quarterbacks aged 25 or younger each registering at least 4,000 passing yards in the same season, surpassing the 2020 season (four quarterbacks).
2023 can also become the first season in history with four or more quarterbacks aged 24 or younger each recording at least 4,000 passing yards in the same season, surpassing the 2018 (three quarterbacks) and 2012 (three) seasons.
HILL CAN BECOME SEVENTH WITH 1,800 RECEIVING YARDS
Miami wide receiver TYREEK HILL leads the NFL with a career-high 1,717 receiving yards and is the first player in NFL history to record at least 1,700 receiving yards in multiple seasons.
With 118 receiving yards in Week 18, Hill can surpass ANTONIO BROWN (1,834 receiving yards in 2015) for the fifth-most receiving yards in a season in NFL history. With 83 receiving yards, he would become the seventh player all-time to reach 1,800 receiving yards in a season.
The players with the most receiving yards in a season in NFL history are:
| PLAYER | TEAM | SEASON | RECEIVING YARDS | |
| Calvin JohnsonHOF | Detroit | 2012 | 1,964 | |
| Cooper Kupp | L.A. Rams | 2021 | 1,947 | |
| Julio Jones | Atlanta | 2015 | 1,871 | |
| Jerry RiceHOF | San Francisco | 1995 | 1,848 | |
| Antonio Brown | Pittsburgh | 2015 | 1,834 | |
| Justin Jefferson | Minnesota | 2022 | 1,809 | |
| Tyreek Hill | Miami | 2023 | 1,717* | |
| *Entering Week 18 | ||||
| | ||||
Photo Cred: Panola Watchman
Hill has 710 receptions for 10,057 yards and has 82 scrimmage touchdowns (75 receiving, seven rushing) in his first eight career seasons. In Week 18, he needs:
- Three receptions to surpass TORRY HOLT (712 receptions) and BRANDON MARSHALL (712) for the fourth-most receptions by a player in his first eight seasons in NFL history.
- Ninety-one receiving yards to surpass Pro Football Hall of Famer RANDY MOSS (10,147 receiving yards) for the fifth-most receiving yards by a player in his first eight seasons in NFL history.
- Two scrimmage touchdowns to surpass Pro Football Hall of Famers MARVIN HARRISON (83 scrimmage touchdowns) and TERRELL OWENS (83) for the third-most scrimmage touchdowns by a wide receiver in his first eight seasons all-time.
Entering Week 18, Hill ranks second in the NFL with 12 touchdown receptions, while teammate RAHEEM MOSTERT leads all players with 18 rushing touchdowns. Miami can join the 2014 DALLAS COWBOYS (DEZ BRYANT and DEMARCO MURRAY) as the only teams since 1970 with the league’s leader in touchdown receptions and rushing touchdowns in the same season.
LAMB CAN BECOME SIXTH WITH 130 RECEPTIONS
Dallas wide receiver CEEDEE LAMB leads the NFL with 122 receptions this season, ranks second with 1,651 receiving yards, and is tied for third with 10 touchdown receptions. Last week, he became the sixth player all-time with four games with at least 10 receptions and 150 receiving yards in a season, joining Pro Football Hall of Famers TIM BROWN (1997), CALVIN JOHNSON (2012), and JERRY RICE (1995), as well as ANTONIO BROWN (2017) and TYREEK HILL (2022).
With eight receptions in Week 18, Lamb can become the sixth player in NFL history with at least 130 receptions in a season, joining MICHAEL THOMAS (149 receptions in 2019), COOPER KUPP (145 in 2021), Pro Football Hall of Famer MARVIN HARRISON (143 in 2002), ANTONIO BROWN (136 in 2015), and JULIO JONES (136 in 2015).
The players with the most receptions in a season in NFL history are:
| PLAYER | TEAM | SEASON | RECEPTIONS | |
| Michael Thomas | New Orleans | 2019 | 149 | |
| Cooper Kupp | L.A. Rams | 2021 | 145 | |
| Marvin HarrisonHOF | Indianapolis | 2002 | 143 | |
| Antonio Brown | Pittsburgh | 2015 | 136 | |
| Julio Jones | Atlanta | 2015 | 136 | |
| CeeDee Lamb | Dallas | 2023 | 122* | |
| *Entering Week 18 | ||||
With three receptions this week, Lamb can become the fourth player all-time with at least 125 receptions and 10 touchdown receptions in a season, joining ANTONIO BROWN (2014 and 2015), Pro Football Hall of Famer MARVIN HARRISON (2002), and COOPER KUPP (2021).
The players with at least 125 receptions and 10 touchdown receptions in a season in NFL history are:
| PLAYER | TEAM | SEASON | RECEPTIONS | REC. TDs |
| Cooper Kupp | L.A. Rams | 2021 | 145 | 16 |
| Antonio Brown | Pittsburgh | 2015 | 136 | 10 |
| Antonio Brown | Pittsburgh | 2014 | 129 | 13 |
| Marvin HarrisonHOF | Indianapolis | 2002 | 143 | 11 |
| CeeDee Lamb | Dallas | 2023 | 122* | 10* |
| *Entering Week 18 | ||||
Lamb has 5,047 receiving yards since entering the NFL in 2020 and with 42 receiving yards in Week 18, can surpass TORRY HOLT (5,088 receiving yards) for the fourth-most by a player in his first four seasons.
Lamb has nine career games with at least 10 receptions and can join MICHAEL THOMAS (18 games) and CHRISTIAN MCCAFFREY (10) as the only players with at least 10 such games in their first four seasons in NFL history.
NACUA LOOKS FOR ROOKIE RECEIVING RECORDS
Los Angeles Rams rookie wide receiver PUKA NACUA ranks fourth in the NFL with 1,445 receiving yards this season and is tied for eighth with 101 receptions. Last week marked his seventh game with at least 100 receiving yards, which is tied for the second-most such games by a rookie in NFL history.
With four receptions at San Francisco (4:25 p.m. ET, FOX), Nacua will surpass JAYLEN WADDLE (104 receptions in 2021) for the most receptions by a rookie in NFL history.
The rookies with the most receptions in NFL history are:
| PLAYER | TEAM | SEASON | RECEPTIONS | |
| Jaylen Waddle | Miami | 2021 | 104 | |
| Anquan Boldin | Arizona | 2003 | 101 | |
| Puka Nacua | L.A. Rams | 2023 | 101* | |
| *Entering Week 18 | ||||
Photo Cred: CNN
With 29 receiving yards, Nacua will surpass BILL GROMAN (1,473 receiving yards) for the most receiving yards by a rookie all-time and with at least 100 receiving yards on Sunday will join Groman (nine games in 1960) as the only rookies all-time with eight games of 100 or more receiving yards.
The rookies with the most receiving yards in history are:
| PLAYER | TEAM | SEASON | RECEIVING YARDS | |
| Bill Groman | Houston Oilers | 1960 | 1,473 | |
| Ja’Marr Chase | Cincinnati | 2021 | 1,455 | |
| Puka Nacua | L.A. Rams | 2023 | 1,445* | |
| *Entering Week 18 | ||||
ADAMS APPROACHES 100 RECEPTIONS
In 2023, 10 players have already eclipsed 100 receptions, with Las Vegas’ DAVANTE ADAMS (98 receptions) and Cincinnati’s JA’MARR CHASE (95) representing the two closest players to reaching the mark in Week 18. If two more players reach 100 receptions, 2023 would become the first season in NFL history with 12-or-more players each having 100-or-more receptions, surpassing the 2018 season (11 players).
With two receptions in Week 18, Adams would become the fourth player in NFL history with at least 100 receptions in four consecutive seasons. He’d be joining ANTONIO BROWN (six consecutive seasons from 2013-18), STEFON DIGGS (four from 2020-23), and Pro Football Hall of Famer MARVIN HARRISON (four from 1999-2002).
Adams has 867 receptions since entering the NFL in 2014 and with three receptions can surpass TORRY HOLT (869 receptions) for the third-most receptions by a player in his first 10 seasons in NFL history. Only Pro Football Hall of Famer MARVIN HARRISON (927 receptions) and BRANDON MARSHALL (882) have more.
LAPORTA SETTING MARKS FOR ROOKIE TIGHT ENDS
Detroit rookie tight end SAM LAPORTA leads all tight ends with nine touchdown receptions, ranks tied for fourth with 81 receptions and sixth with 860 receiving yards this season.
LaPorta can become the third rookie tight end in NFL history to record at least 10 touchdown receptions, joining Pro Football Hall of Famer MIKE DITKA (12 touchdown receptions in 1961) and ROB GRONKOWSKI (10 in 2010).
The rookie tight ends with the most touchdown receptions in NFL history are:
| PLAYER | TEAM | SEASON | TD RECEPTIONS | |
| Mike DitkaHOF | Chicago | 1961 | 12 | |
| Rob Gronkowski | New England | 2010 | 10 | |
| Sam LaPorta | Detroit | 2023 | 9* | |
| Junior Miller | Atlanta | 1980 | 9 | |
| *Entering Week 18 | ||||
Photo Cred: Lions Wire – USA Today
With one reception, LaPorta will surpass KEITH JACKSON (81 receptions in 1988) for the most receptions by a rookie tight end in NFL history.
The rookie tight ends with the most receptions in NFL history are:
| PLAYER | TEAM | SEASON | RECEPTIONS | |
| Keith Jackson | Philadelphia | 1988 | 81 | |
| Sam LaPorta | Detroit | 2023 | 81* | |
| Jeremy Shockey | N.Y. Giants | 2002 | 74 | |
| *Entering Week 18 | ||||
With 40 receiving yards, LaPorta will become the third rookie tight end all-time with at least 900 receiving yards, joining Ditka (1,076 receiving yards in 1961) and KYLE PITTS (1,026 in 2021).
The rookie tight ends with the most receiving yards in NFL history are:
| PLAYER | TEAM | SEASON | RECEIVING YARDS | |
| Mike DitkaHOF | Chicago | 1961 | 1,076 | |
| Kyle Pitts | Atlanta | 2021 | 1,026 | |
| Jeremy Shockey | N.Y. Giants | 2002 | 894 | |
| Keith Jackson | Philadelphia | 1988 | 869 | |
| Sam LaPorta | Detroit | 2023 | 860* | |
| *Entering Week 18 | ||||
ENGRAM CAN CATCH 110
Jacksonville tight end EVAN ENGRAM leads all tight ends with a career-high 104 receptions entering Week 18. With six receptions this week, he can become the fourth tight end in NFL history with at least 110 receptions in a season, joining ZACH ERTZ (116 receptions in 2018), TRAVIS KELCE (110 in 2022), and JASON WITTEN (110 in 2012).
The tight ends with the most receptions in a season in NFL history are:
| PLAYER | TEAM | SEASON | RECEPTIONS | |
| Zach Ertz | Philadelphia | 2018 | 116 | |
| Travis Kelce | Kansas City | 2022 | 110 | |
| Jason Witten | Dallas | 2012 | 110 | |
| Mark Andrews | Baltimore | 2021 | 107 | |
| Darren Waller | Las Vegas | 2020 | 107 | |
| Travis Kelce | Kansas City | 2020 | 105 | |
| Evan Engram | Jacksonville | 2023 | 104* | |
| *Entering Week 18 | ||||
Photo Cred: Jaguars Wire – USA Today
NFL Announces Nominees for 2023 Don Shula High School Coach of the Year Award
Released by the NFL:
NEW YORK — Jan. 4, 2024 — Today, the NFL announced all the high school football coaches nominated by the 32 NFL teams for the 2023 Don Shula High School Coach of the Year Award, representing the best in coaching at the high school level.
These coaches were recognized by their local NFL clubs for the prestigious award – named after Pro Football Hall of Famer Don Shula, the winningest coach in NFL history. The coaches were judged based on areas in which Coach Shula excelled most during his career – character, integrity, leadership, dedication to the community, commitment to player health and safety, and on-field success.
“It is exciting to celebrate the nominees from each NFL club; all 32 represent the integrity, commitment and character of Coach Don Shula,” said Roman Oben, vice president of football development. “High school football coaches help mold the lives of young high school players both on and off the field. They serve as leaders and role models, and this group represents the very best every year.”
Photo Cred: Florida HS Football
The NFL will recognize one winner from the region near an NFL Club in each conference, AFC and NFC. These two winners will be invited to the 2024 Pro Bowl Games in Orlando, Fla., on Feb. 4 and will be recognized in special ways during the NFL’s week-long celebration of football. Throughout the week, coaches will receive VIP access and accommodations to attend the Pro Bowl Games practices for both conferences, on-field access on Sunday for the culmination of the Pro Bowl Games, and a chance to interact and engage with various members of the football community.
The NFL Foundation and Nike have teamed up to provide the two winners a $15,000 award for their high school football programs and a $10,000 cash award. The other 30 club nominees will all receive a $1,000 cash award. The two winners will also attend Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas as special guests of the NFL. The Don Shula Award winners will be announced in the week prior to the 2024 Pro Bowl Games, televised on Sunday, Feb. 4, from 3-6 p.m. ET on ESPN, ABC, Disney XD, ESPN+ and ESPN Deportes. The winners will also be recognized and walk the red carpet at NFL Honors, a two-hour primetime awards special to air nationally on Thursday, Feb. 8, at 9 p.m. ET on CBS.
Photo Cred: Society Awards
The Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year winners are selected by a panel of distinguished individuals:
• 2022 Don Shula NFL Coach of the Year Award AFC Winner Clive Harding
• 2022 Don Shula NFL Coach of the Year Award NFC Winner Matthew Gallagher
• NFL analyst and former front office executive Scott Pioli
• Pro Football Hall of Famer and current ESPN contributor Peyton Manning
• Pro Football Hall of Fame coach and current NBC analyst Tony Dungy
• Executive Director of USA Football Scott Hallenbeck
• Former All-Pro cornerback & NFL consultant Bobby Taylor
• NFL Legend and NFL Network analyst Michael Robinson
• Aplington-Parkersburg High School Principal Aaron Thomas, son of the school’s late football coach Ed Thomas
• NFL Legend, former NFL head coach, and son of the late Coach Shula Dave Shula
• Nike Brand Director of Grass Roots and Team Scott Henson
Photo Cred: View Program
Rosters Announced For 2024 Pro Bowl Games Presented by Verizon
Released by the NFL:
The NFL today announced the AFC and NFC rosters for the 2024 Pro Bowl Games presented by Verizon.
Player selections were determined by the consensus votes of fans, players, and coaches, with each group’s vote counting as one-third toward determining the all-star players who will be selected to this year’s Pro Bowl Games. The NFL is the only sports league that combines voting by fans, coaches, and players to determine its all-star teams. NFL players and coaches voted on Dec. 29.
For the first time in three years, the National Football League will return to Orlando to celebrate the league’s best players at the 2024 Pro Bowl Games presented by Verizon. As in past years, the Pro Bowl Games provides fans with an unmatched opportunity to vote for their favorite players to compete in a multi-day AFC versus NFC competition. It features Pro Bowl Skills and culminating in an action-packed flag football game, led by head coaches Peyton and Eli Manning.
The 2024 Pro Bowl Games, hosted in partnership with Florida Citrus Sports, Orange County, and the City of Orlando, will be a multi-day AFC versus NFC competition culminating on Sunday, Feb. 4, at Camping World Stadium. Fans can visit ProBowl.com/tickets to buy tickets, which start as low as $45, for Sunday’s event. They will also be televised from 3-6 p.m. ET on ESPN, ABC, Disney XD, ESPN+ and ESPN Deportes.
Photo Cred:
In addition to Sunday’s event, ESPN will air the Pro Bowl Skills Show live from 7-8:30 p.m. ET on Thursday, Feb. 1 in the Nicholson Fieldhouse at the University of Central Florida. A made-for-TV event, the Pro Bowl Skills Show will feature the NFL’s top players participating in unique competitions that showcase their on-field and off-field skills. Announced in December, the 2024 Pro Bowl Games will feature new and fan-favorite skills, with cumulative scoring leading up to flag football on Sunday. For more information on the Pro Bowl Games, visit NFL.com/pro-bowl-games/event-
On Location, the official hospitality partner of the NFL, will offer guests elevated hospitality packages for a one-of-a-kind experience at the 2024 Pro Bowl Games. This includes field access throughout the game, access to closed practice sessions, player introductions, and premium seating to the game. Fans interested in tickets and hospitality packages can visit On Location’s website at OnLocationExp.com/probowl.
Twenty-eight teams had at least one player selected to the 2024 Pro Bowl Games roster and 21 clubs had multiple players chosen as all-stars. The SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS led all teams with nine Pro Bowl selections, while the BALTIMORE RAVENS and DALLAS COWBOYS each had seven players chosen. Five additional teams – the CLEVELAND BROWNS (five), DETROIT LIONS (five), KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (five), MIAMI DOLPHINS (six), and PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (six) – each placed at least five players on the Pro Bowl roster.
Representing the AFC quarterbacks are former NFL Most Valuable Players LAMAR JACKSON of the Baltimore Ravens (third Pro Bowl selection) and PATRICK MAHOMES of the Kansas City Chiefs (sixth-consecutive selection), as well as first-time selection TUA TAGOVAILOA of the Miami Dolphins. In the NFC, the league’s top-two leaders in touchdown passes entering Week 18 – DAK PRESCOTT of the Dallas Cowboys (third selection) and BROCK PURDY of the San Francisco 49ers (first selection) – are joined by 15-year NFL veteran MATTHEW STAFFORD of the Los Angeles Rams (third selection).
Purdy and Tagovailoa are both designated as the starting quarterbacks on the initial roster, marking the first time that both starting quarterbacks on the initial Pro Bowl roster were first-time selections since the 2000 Pro Bowl following the 1999 season (Pro Football Hall of Famers Peyton Manning and Kurt Warner).
Photo Cred: X (formerly Twitter)
San Francisco’s TRENT WILLIAMS was selected to his 11th Pro Bowl, the most among players chosen for the initial roster, becoming the eighth offensive lineman ever with at least 11 career Pro Bowl selections.
Los Angeles Rams defensive lineman AARON DONALD was selected to his 10th career Pro Bowl and is the only defensive lineman since 1970 to make the Pro Bowl in each of his first 10 seasons. He also joins Pro Football Hall of Famers Reggie White (13) and Bruce Smith (11) as the only defensive linemen since 1970 with 10 Pro Bowl selections.
Miami’s TYREEK HILL was selected to his eighth Pro Bowl, becoming the first wide receiver ever to make the Pro Bowl in each of his first eight career seasons.
Indianapolis guard QUENTON NELSON became the fourth offensive lineman to be selected to the Pro Bowl in each of his first six career seasons, joining Zack Martin (who was selected to his ninth Pro Bowl this year), Pro Football Hall of Famer Joe Thomas, and Richmond Webb.
Photo Cred: ClutchPoints
Cincinnati’s JA’MARR CHASE and Dallas’ MICAH PARSONS each earned their third-consecutive Pro Bowl selections since entering the NFL in 2021, while the New York Jets’ SAUCE GARDNER was selected to his second-straight Pro Bowl since being chosen No. 4 overall in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Baltimore’s JUSTIN TUCKER was selected to his seventh career Pro Bowl, tying Pro Football Hall of Famer Morten Andersen for the most Pro Bowl selections by a kicker.
Kansas City’s TRAVIS KELCE was chosen to his ninth Pro Bowl, trailing only Pro Football Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez (14) and Jason Witten (11) for the most Pro Bowl selections among tight ends all-time.
San Francisco’s KYLE JUSZCZYK was selected to his eighth Pro Bowl, the most ever by a fullback.
Twenty-eight of the players selected to the Pro Bowl today are first-time all-stars, including rookies SAM LAPORTA (Detroit), MARVIN MIMS JR. (Denver), PUKA NACUA (Los Angeles Rams), and DEVON WITHERSPOON (Seattle).
Photo Cred: NFL.com
Brock Purdy, 49ers Top 2024 Pro Bowl Games Fan Voting
Released by the NFL:
NEW YORK — Jan. 3, 2024 — San Francisco quarterback BROCK PURDY, with 451,864 votes, led all players in balloting for the 2024 Pro Bowl Games Vote presented by Verizon. Fan voting concluded on Monday, Dec. 25.
San Francisco running back CHRISTIAN MCCAFFREY (429,993) ranked second overall, while Miami quarterback TUA TAGOVAILOA (414,502), San Francisco tight end GEORGE KITTLE (373,750), and Kansas City tight end TRAVIS KELCE (327,263) rounded out the top five.
The SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS led all clubs in total votes received, as fans placed 49ers players atop 15 different positions in the final NFC voting. The MIAMI DOLPHINS had the most AFC players, with the most fan votes at 12 positions.
Photo Cred: 49ers.com
The AFC and NFC player rosters for The Pro Bowl Games will be announced tonight, Jan. 3, live on NFL Network’s Pro Bowl special “NFL Total Access: Pro Bowl Players Revealed” and streaming on NFL+ at 8:00 p.m. ET, hosted by Kimmi Chex and Mike Yam.
Player selections were determined by the consensus votes of fans, players, and coaches, with each group’s vote counting as one-third toward determining the all-star players who will be selected to this year’s Pro Bowl Games. The NFL is the only sports league that combines voting by fans, coaches, and players to determine its Pro Bowl teams. NFL players and coaches voted on Friday, Dec. 29.
For the first time in three years, the National Football League will return to Orlando to celebrate the league’s best players at the 2024 Pro Bowl Games presented by Verizon. Just like in past years, the Pro Bowl Games provides fans with an unmatched opportunity to vote for their favorite players to compete in a multi-day AFC versus NFC competition. The event will feature Pro Bowl Skills and culminating in an action-packed flag football game, led by head coaches Peyton and Eli Manning.
Photo Cred: Broncos Wire – USA Today
The 2024 Pro Bowl Games, hosted in partnership with Florida Citrus Sports, Orange County, and the City of Orlando, will be a multi-day AFC versus NFC competition culminating on Sunday, Feb. 4 at Camping World Stadium. Fans can visit ProBowl.com/tickets to buy tickets, which start as low as $45, for Sunday’s event. It will also be televised from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. ET on ESPN, ABC, Disney XD, ESPN+ and ESPN Deportes.
In addition to Sunday’s event, ESPN will air the Pro Bowl Skills Show live from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. ET on Thursday, Feb. 1 in the Nicholson Fieldhouse at the University of Central Florida. A made-for-TV event, the Pro Bowl Skills Show will feature the NFL’s top players participating in unique competitions that showcase their on-field and off-field skills. Announced in December, the 2024 Pro Bowl Games will feature new and fan-favorite skills, with cumulative scoring leading up to flag football on Sunday. For more information on the Pro Bowl Games, visit NFL.com/pro-bowl-games/event-info/.
On Location, the official hospitality partner of the NFL, will offer guests elevated hospitality packages for a one-of-a-kind experience at the 2024 Pro Bowl Games. It includes field access throughout the game, access to closed practice sessions, player introductions, and premium seating to the game. Fans interested in tickets and hospitality packages can visit On Location’s website at OnLocationExp.com/probowl.
Photo Cred: ESPN
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