Panthers officially name Baker Mayfield as starting quarterback, Saints punter hit with 'random' drug test, Brady returns to training camp, Bengals safety Bates expected to sign franchise tag, and more football news.
Panthers officially name Baker Mayfield starting quarterback
The Carolina Panthers officially named Baker Mayfield their starting quarterback for Week 1. Mayfield will face his old team, the Cleveland Browns, when the season begins on September 11, CBSSports reported. Mayfield was acquired via trade in July and has bested former first-round pick Sam Darnold for Carolina's QB job.
Saints punter hit with 'random' drug test
Sometimes booting an 81-yard punt can gain attention in unexpected ways. In less than 36 hours after the booming kick, New Orleans Saints punter Blake Gillikin received a text from the NFL demanding he show up for a "random" drug test and had three hours to arrive at the facility, CBSSports reported. No word on the results of Gillikin's test, which took place on August 21.
Brady returns to training camp
There has been lots of talk and concern about Tom Brady's "Where's Waldo?" absence from training camp, although Tampa Bay head coach Todd Bowles was seemingly unworried all along. At last, the seven-time Super Bowl champ QB returned on Monday, CBSSports reported. Rumor has it Brady was on vacation in the Bahamas with his family, something that had already been scheduled before he decided to un-retire.
Bengals safety Bates expected to sign franchise tag
Cincinnati Bengals All-Pro level safety Jessie Bates arrived at training camp on Tuesday morning and is expected to sign his franchise tag to play for the team in the 2022 season. He is expected to sign a nearly $13 million deal, Sports Illustrated reported. Bates and the Bengals have been at odds over contract extension over the last two offseasons and had been unable to reach an agreement on a long-term deal by July 15.
Bills 'Punt God' Matt Araiza takes starting job from veteran Matt Haack
The so-called 'Punt God' Matt Araiza has taken the starting job away from veteran punter Matt Haack, whom Buffalo released on Monday as the team pares down to the final 53-man roster, CBSSports reports. Araiza booted an 82-yard punt in the preseason opener against the Colts.
Alabama QB Bryce Young signs NIL endorsement with Dr. Pepper
NIL endorsement deals continue to grow for Alabama quarterback Bryce Young, who signed a deal with Dr. Pepper to appear in the soft drink's upcoming "Fansville" campaign of commercials throughout the 2022 season, Sports Illustrated reported. Dr. Pepper has already released a teaser that includes Young's acting debut, which can be seen here.