With the combine just around the corner, the NFL news ticker has been buzzing. Here’s a quick run-down of the biggest stories from around the league this Friday.
Chiefs keep communication with Kelce, nothing doing with Tyreek Hill
After a rare playoff miss and an off-season full of questions, Kansas City head coach Andy Reid told reporters he’s still chatting with Travis Kelce about a 2026 return but there’s nothing concrete yet. Kelce turns 37 this year and after seven straight 1,000-yard seasons he’s fallen short in the last three. Reid said communication is ongoing and he’ll give the veteran tight end space to decide his future. Speculation about a Tyreek Hill reunion popped up when Miami released the receiver, but Reid poured cold water on the idea, noting Hill is still recovering from a serious knee injury and “nothing is happening” on that front.
Browns lure Travis Switzer to reboot run game
New Cleveland head coach Todd Monken has hired Ravens run game coordinator Travis Switzer as offensive coordinator. Switzer spent nine seasons in Baltimore, working his way up from administrative assistant and helping Derrick Henry win the AFC rushing title in 2024. Cleveland’s ground attack ranked 27th in the league last season, so Monken is banking on Switzer to bring some Ravens-style physicality back to Ohio. The Browns also announced Mike Rutenberg as defensive coordinator and Byron Storer for special teams.
Rams promote rising star Nate Scheelhaase
The Los Angeles Rams are elevating 35-year-old pass game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase to offensive coordinator. He’ll replace Mike LaFleur, who left to coach Arizona, after the pair helped power L.A. to the NFC Championship Game and the league’s top offense last season. Scheelhaase interviewed for several head-coach openings during the latest hiring cycle and now gets a chance to run Sean McVay’s high-octane attack. Before joining the Rams, he coached at his alma mater Illinois and Iowa State and played quarterback for the Fighting Illini.
Patriots show class with Mack Hollins bonus
In a rare feel-good contract story, New England added $400,000 to receiver Mack Hollins’ signing bonus after he missed his catch incentive by just four receptions. Hollins needed 50 catches in 2025 to unlock the bonus but finished the year with 46; the Patriots chose to honour the full amount anyway.
Falcons boss Matt Ryan backs Michael Penix Jr., but health comes first
Falcons president – and former Atlanta quarterback – Matt Ryan said on SiriusXM NFL Radio that third-year QB Michael Penix Jr. must focus on getting fully healthy after last year’s ACL tear. Ryan noted the front office is excited about Penix’s ability to “spin the football” but will surround him with seasoned coaches such as Alex Van Pelt and emphasise fundamentals and footwork.
A.J. Brown reflects on tough love from Mike Vrabel
On Rob Gronkowski and Julian Edelman’s “Dudes on Dudes” podcast, Eagles wideout A.J. Brown admitted he once “hated” Titans coach Mike Vrabel and would secretly scribble “I hate Vrabes” in his notebook during meetings. Brown now says he respects Vrabel’s tough coaching because it holds everyone accountable. The anecdote fuels speculation that Brown could reunite with his old mentor in New England if Philadelphia entertains trade offers.
Ravens working to keep star center Tyler Linderbaum
Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said on the Inner Circle Podcast that re-signing All-Pro center Tyler Linderbaum remains a priority and admitted the club has “work to do” on his new deal. Linderbaum could become the highest-paid center in NFL history; Baltimore declined his fifth-year option because it would have cost $23.4 million. With free agency looming, the Ravens will need to bridge the gap quickly.
Stay tuned for more updates as the off-season unfolds.
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