Sep 18, 2011; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez (81) runs the ball in the first quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

While police have yet to officially name New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez a suspect, that charge may not be far off assuming the reports from Fox 25 are accurate.

The Boston based news station is reporting that Hernandez is “directly tied to the homicide” this evening.

Per Fox 25:

A law enforcement official tells FOX 25 Hernandez appears to be directly tied to the homicide which is why authorities executed a search warrant at his home Tuesday night. According to the same source, Hernandez, Lloyd, and two other men were at a bar in Boston the night of the homicide, and at some point, the four men left together in a car driven by Hernandez which was confirmed by a text Lloyd sent another friend, the source says.

The source also says forensic evidence places a vehicle driven by Hernandez at one of the crime scenes in this case.

In addition to trying to find a second vehicle rented in Hernandez’s name, police are reportedly in search of a silver mirror cover which is believed to have been broken off a vehicle used in the murder.

Earlier tonight, a law source confirmed that Hernandez was the driver of a car at a “crime scene” and suggested that the murder could be drug related, specifically marijuana.

Jan 13, 2013; Foxboro, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez (81) runs past Houston Texans free safety Danieal Manning (38) during the second half of the AFC divisional round playoff game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

It is not looking good for New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez.

As we documented earlier today (and yesterday), Aaron Hernandez, while not “officially” a suspect (yet) has been uncooperative with police who searched his home for two plus hours last night and authorities reportedly found a gun at the crime scene where a man was found dead. That man was reportedly dating the sister of Hernandez’s girlfriend.

Police initially were investigating an SUV that Hernandez had apparently rented but later today were looking for a Chrysler 300 and now according to a report say the New England Patriots tight end was at the murder scene, driving one of the two vehicles in question and the murder is potentially “drug related”.

Per Sports Illustrated’s Pete Thamel:

Fox 25 also reports the murder is “drug related, specifically marijuana.”

Ted Daniel of Fox25 has more information:

LAW SOURCE: Aaron Hernandez was driver of a vehicle Odin LLoyd and 2 others in. Lloyd found dead one mile from Hernandez home

2 LAW SOURCES: Homicide victim Odin Lloyd sent text to a friend that included a reference to Aaron Hernandez.

LAW SOURCE: 4 men together in vehicle. Only 3 return to Aaron Hernandez’s home. Odin Lloyd NOT one of them. #fox25

LAW SOURCE: Forensic evidence places vehicle “driven by” Aaron Hernandez at “crime scene”. Don’t know what scene that is.

Hernandez is at home tonight. Police are reportedly reviewing his home security system recordings.

Dec. 23, 2012; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Greg McElroy (14) takes a snap from center Nick Mangold (74) against the San Diego Chargers during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Debby Wong-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Jets’ quarterback controversy continues once again this offseason, albeit a little quieter than it was a year ago with Tim Tebow, but the players involved don’t see it as a battle. Another player believes that Mark Sanchez should be the starting quarterback.

Nick Mangold gave his praise to the quarterback that’s entering his fifth season in the NFL when talking to the New York Post.

Asked if the rest of the locker room also hopes Sanchez will emerge as the starter, Mangold nodded.

“I believe so,” he told The Post. “I haven’t walked around with a pen and paper and taken a poll, but from the feeling I get, the locker room wants to win. Whoever gives us the best chance to do that, we want out there — and at this point, Mark gives us that best chance.”

Almost a week ago, Santonio Holmes also backed up Sanchez for being the team’s upcoming starter.

It’s been a rough couple of seasons for Sanchez after reaching the AFC Championship Game twice in his first two seasons in the NFL. He had his second-lowest quarterback rating of 66.9 percent and had a career-high 14 fumbles last season. He currently averages a 55.1 passing completion percentage and has more interceptions than touchdowns (69-68) in his career.

Jan 29, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; San Francisco 49ers defensive end Justin Smith (94) addresses the press during media day in preparation for Super Bowl XLVII against the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Despite suffering an arm injury late last season and not being able to fully recover in the playoffs, the San Francisco 49ers have signed Justin Smith to a two-year extension.

The USA Today reports that the organization and their star offensive lineman agreed to the new contract earlier this week as he was headed into the final season of his old contract.

On Tuesday, he signed a two-year extension to remain with the team through 2015.

San Francisco general manager Trent Baalke said in a statement that Smith’s extension should allow the 33-year-old defensive tackle to finish his career as a 49er.

Smith was definitely missed, none more so than Aldon Smith who could no longer reach the quarterback when Justin was injured in Week 15. Aldon had 19.5 sacks before that.

Here’s an official statement from the 49ers by general manager Trent Baalke:

“Justin’s All-Pro contributions on the field, as well as his leadership on and off the field, are integral to our success as a team.”

Age is catching up with the lineman, but that won’t stop him from still coming out with the same intensity he’s had throughout his career. When asked if Justin would take a smaller role, he responded that he’ll play full strength until he can’t.

“That’s not going to happen,” Smith said, via Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee. “I’ve said that, I meant that — I won’t be the guy that’s around for 10 snaps, 20 snaps. It’s either,I’m going or I’m not going. If I get my ass out here, I’m going.”

[Source: USA Today, 49ers Spin]

June 12, 2012; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez (81) takes questions from reporters after mini camp at the Gillette Stadium practice facility. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

In addition to looking for the previously known SUV which was rented by New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez, deputies are also searching for another car rented by Hernandez – this time a 2013 Chrysler 300.

Per Sports Illustrated:

Police are investigating the death of a male, whose body was found on Monday at an industrial park less than a mile from Hernandez’s house. A vehicle rented in Hernandez’s name has emerged as a key piece of evidence, and police are trying to locate another vehicle — a 2013 Chrysler 300 — that was also rented under Hernandez’s name.

Why police are looking for this car is unknown.

SI is also reporting conflicting information as to what we’ve heard earlier, as reports hinted this morning that Hernandez was potentially a suspect in the homicide. However, according to Greg Bedard and Pete Thamel that doesn’t appear to be the case – at least not yet:

Hernandez was questioned by police on Monday, a source told SI. His house was searched for more than two and a half hours Tuesday evening by a dozen state police investigators. Hernandez is not believed to be a murder suspect.

August 2, 2011; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis (85) runs in front of offensive coordinator Greg Roman (right) during training camp at the Marie P. DeBartolo Centre. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

According to Ian Rapoport, the San Francisco 49ers have signed offensive coordinator Greg Roman to a two year contract extension.

Per Rapoport:

#49ers have signed offensive coordinator Greg Roman to a two-year contract extension, I’m told. This takes the creative coach through 2015.

There was no talk of contractual figures.

Roman is one of the more highly respected offensive coordinators in the league, consistently in the mix for head coaching jobs and despite the extension it’s difficult to envision Roman sticking in San Francisco for more than this season.

The 49ers Super Bowl run most likely ended any serious offers opposing teams could have offered Roman, though, the New Jersey native will again be near the top of potential coaching candidates come the end of the 2013 season.

For now, the red and gold are happy to have the talented and creative football mind back in the Bay.

Roman has already been hard at work since signing his new deal, apparently trying to mix in tight end Vernon Davis as a wide receiver which our Mike Dyce covered earlier today.

Jan 20, 2013; Foxboro, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez (81) is unable to make the catch in the first half of the AFC championship game against the Baltimore Ravens at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports

While there has been no confirmation that this is linked to New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez, state troopers have apparently found a gun in North Attleboro – the town where Aaron Hernandez lives and where the body of a dead man was discovered Monday.

Per Karen Anderson of WBZ-TV:

Law enforcement sources: State Troopers found a gun in North Attleboro #wbz

Again, there are no direct connections to Hernandez and the found gun at this point and time, however, the gun which was found near the body has obviously been taken in for examination:

Per Peter Wilson:

BREAKING: Law enforcement sources tell @karenreports that troopers found a gun in North Attleboro in the area where body was found.#wbz

Hernandez has been the subject of heavy law investigation the past few days as the body found near his home was that of the boyfriend of Hernandez’s girlfriend’s sister. While he was at first reportedly not deemed a suspect, police have backed off that stance after searching the home of the New England Patriots tight end. He has also become uncooperative with police, according to reports.

Dec 10, 2012; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez (81) reacts during the game against the Houston Texans at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael Ivins-USA TODAY Sports

So you think you’re having a bad week, huh?

How about New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez who not only is in the middle of a murder investigation, but apparently was also sued earlier this week for shooting a man in the face.

Yeah – really.

Per TMZ:

New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez was sued earlier this month for allegedly shooting a man in the face following an altercation at a Miami strip club … TMZ has learned.
Bradley claims … After the dispute, both men left the club — and got into the same car which was heading to Palm Beach. During the ride, Aaron allegedly aimed his weapon at Bradley … and the gun discharged, striking Bradley in the face.

Bradley claims he suffered major injuries from the gunshot … including the loss of his right eye.

Bradley also claimed he required major surgery to reconstruct his face … which required plates and screws. Bradley also claims he suffered damage to his right hand and arm, which also required surgery.

I don’t even.

Hernandez is apparently uncooperative with police who have already searched his home in regards to the ongoing murder investigation. The jogger found dead near Hernandez’s house is reportedly the boyfriend of Hernandez’s girlfriend’s sister.

September 30 2012; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos center J.D. Walton (50) prepares to snap the football during second quarter of the game against the Oakland Raiders at Sports Authority Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

A devastating blow to the Denver Broncos as it’s being reported that center J.D. Walton will miss the entire 2013 season after undergoing another ankle operation.

Per Jeff Legwold:

#Broncos center J.D. Walton has had an additional surgery on his ankle this week. Is expected to miss season. A tough deal for him.

Dan Koppen, who filled in for Walton last season was let go in free agency, leaving the Broncos with few possible alternatives on their roster. Thankfully, Koppen is still available but the backup center was league average at best last year, a significant drop from the talented Walton.

There are rumors that the Broncos could attempt to play Chris Kuper at center, though Kuper’s never played a game at the position and the team is worried about him struggling there.

As for Walton, who never missed a game prior to last year when he was injured in Week 4, his future will certainly get a bit more murky and cloudy after missing nearly two consecutive seasons of action.

Jan 13, 2013; Foxboro, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez (81) reacts against the Houston Texans during the first half of the AFC divisional round playoff game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

Earlier this week it was reported that New England Patriot tight end Aaron Hernandez’s rental car was involved in some way with a dead body found near his home in North Attlesboro, Mass.

And we’re told that Aaron Hernandez hasn’t been ruled out as a suspect yet, despite earlier reports by SI.com that said the tight end was not believed to be a suspect.

From NFL.com:

“ABC News reported Wednesday that Hernandez was cooperative with police Tuesday night. The ABC News report also cited unnamed sources. SI.com later reported that police searched Hernandez’s home Tuesday night, and two men were escorted from the scene separately, but they were not in handcuffs.”

The victim was Odin Lloyd and was a person that Hernandez knew. Lloyd apparently was dating Hernandez’s girlfriend’s sister. ABC News says the victim was a known associate of Hernandez.

ABC News also quoted a New England Patriots official:

“Stacey James, a New England Patriots official, said on behalf of the team, “I am aware of the reports, but I do not anticipate that we will be commenting publicly during an ongoing police investigation.”"

And NFL.com provided an update

“The Associated Press reported Wednesday morning that Massachusetts State Police returned to Hernandez’s home. Two troopers knocked at his door Wednesday morning in North Attleborough, Mass., but no one answered, according to The AP.”

Jun 12, 2013; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (left) talks with quarterback Tim Tebow (right) during minicamp at the practice fields of Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports

When I heard the news about the New England Patriots signing Tim Tebow, I’m pretty sure I reacted just like the rest of you: I called the White House and told Obama that the terrorists had hijacked Bill Belichick’s mind with Inception-style inception, our only hope now being to send in Ellen Page to do nothing remotely helpful. Why in the world would the Patriots want Tim Tebow? I thought I was witnessing one of the best coaching minds of my generation go stark raving mad; it was scary. Then I began to wonder if this wasn’t some sort of underhanded trick, some sort of duplicitous misdirection to gain an advantage on unsuspecting opponents. I dismissed that idea quickly, though, because Belichick would obviously never cheat at anything ever. Yet I kept coming back to the question over the course of the week, unable to shake it from my mind.

Let’s back up a bit. I know it is trendy and “hilarious” to make fun of Tim Tebow, but I kinda like the guy. He and I feel a bit like kindred spirits; we both cry openly, we both retained our respective virginities for far too long, and we both love circumcising babies. He’s a man of God; I’m a god of a man (ask your girlfriend). Tebow gives hope to high school players everywhere; you too can win the Heisman if you’re white, handsome, and playing alongside someone as talented as Percy Harvin. A lot of people like to joke about how Tebow is Jesus, but I won’t consider that a fitting comparison until I see Tebow do the whole water-to-wine thing at the Gatorade dispenser he’ll perpetually be stationed near at the end of the bench. Though the media drooling over his every move grows tiresome, I find it difficult to imagine even though most cynical of people legitimately believing he is a “bad guy.”

Tom Brady, on the other hand, is an antichrist (yes, I know the common phrase is “the” antichrist, but considering Todd Akin exists, we obviously have more than one walking this earth right now). His little sixth-round-pick-to-Super-Bowl-champion narrative is cute, sure, until you remember that there are thousands of NFL-eligible college football players in America, ergo even being picked in the draft is a damn impressive accomplishment. Oh, and his house has a moat around it. People say the water is patrolled by some sort of hideous sea monster, but it’s actually just Vince Wilfork and his mammoth arm fat. I respect the hell out of Tom Brady for all the incredible things he’s accomplished—multiple MVPS, a slew of records, the Super Bowl wins—but I say his greatest achievement of all is tricking Giants fans into believing Eli Manning is anything more than a marginally talented goofball who doesn’t even deserve to share a name with Peyton. Now that takes talent.

It’s clear, then, that having these two opposing forces working together is going to present an enthralling challenge, one that I’m sure ESPN will do only ten-second passing mentions of every Sports Center episode. As much as Tebow “just wins games” (you know, as proven by that one partial season), it is hard to imagine him being a viable backup to Tom Brady. As much as it physically pains me to admit this, Tom Brady is a pretty good NFL quarterback. Belichick is a smart coach, though, and it is unreasonable to think he just signed Tebow on a lark given the disparity in talent between Tom and Tim. He has to have some sort of master plan, and I think—though my tin-foil hat has hampered my normally acute psychic abilities—I know what it is.

During the second game of the 2001 season, Drew Bledsoe suffered the injury that provided Tom Brady the opportunity to shine. The team the Patriots were playing that fateful day? The New York Jets. What team do they Patriots play the second week of this upcoming season? The New York Jets! ALEX JONES COULDN’T EVEN MAKE THAT UP! Don’t be surprised if Brady gets “hurt” at some point in that game so Tebow can come in to face his former team. I know Belichick has a play designed where Tebow, operating from the shotgun, runs forward and commits an intentional “butt-fumble,” only to pick up the loose ball and run it eighty yards for the touchdown. The Patriots will win in a blow-out. Expect adulation for Tebow and tears of shame from Mark Sanchez.

The next few weeks will be utter pandemonium. Tebow will dominate the league, using his magical powers to heal Gronk’s ailing back and his swagger to swipe Samantha Steele from Christian Ponder. There will be innumerable pontifications from hack sports journalists about if Tom Brady is “done” and at least one rumor that Tebow prayed to have Tom Brady injured. Don’t be surprised if the Patriots jump out to an 9-1 record, the only loss coming from the Miami Dolphins, a team so talented and gifted and incredible that I’d never ever conceive of making fun of them.

Of course, the big game of the regular season is clearly the November 24th contest against the Denver Broncos. People will be expecting Tebow to run wild over the team that unceremoniously dumped him, but this is where Belichick’s genius will prevail. I wouldn’t be surprise if the Patriots intentionally gave up points to the Broncos, perhaps letting Wes Welker exert a bit of vengeance. Trailing in the fourth quarter, the Patriots will pull Tebow from the game and put in a seemingly hobbled Tom Brady, who will limp out onto the field with the energy and dexterity of a wounded hound…and then will lead his team on a remarkable comeback that’ll put the final nail in coffin of the Brady versus Manning debate (because, you know, that debate clearly hasn’t been settled yet). It’ll make for great theater, and that’s what Belichick wants. After the game, Tebow will graciously concede his starting position to Brady, and Brady will announce to the media that he could have never made his “recovery” without the magical healing touch of Tim Tebow. They’ll hug, and women across America will swoon (Mark Sanchez will still be weeping).

I unfortunately can’t say how this charade will work once the playoffs begin. My psychic abilities only extend a certain amount into the future, sorry. However, would you really want bet against a team that has both a saint and a devil on the roster, a team that is helmed by a diabolical genius with an impeccable taste for sweatshirts? I wouldn’t, and I don’t even LIKE the Patriots. There is one hope, though, for all you anti-Pats people out there. Thankfully the NFL has one hero who could potentially stop this unholy marriage of Good and Evil, this apocalyptic tandem of saint and Satan. His name is Bernard Karmell Pollard, former safety for the Baltimore Ravens, and his ability to wreck havoc on the Patriots is well established. He plays for the Tennessee Titans now, and if he finds himself facing Brady in the playoffs, expect some serious smiting to occur.

(Oh god, I just realized our only hope is the Tennessee Titans making the playoffs. Damn. Uhh…someone call Ellen Page. I don’t think she’s busy.)

Jan 13, 2013; Foxboro, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez (81) is pursued by Houston Texans safety Daniel Manning (38) in the AFC Divisional Round playoff game at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Texans 41-28. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/USA TODAY Sports

In something out of a movie script, it’s being reported that the dead jogger reportedly found less than a mile from the home of New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez was the boyfriend of Hernandez’s sister.

Per CBS Boston:

Police went to see Hernandez Monday after a jogger found the body of a man in an industrial park near Hernandez’s home.

The man was identified by his family Wednesday as 27-year-old Odin Lloyd of Dorchester.

A neighbor told WBZ they had seen Hernandez in the neighborhood and that Odin dated the sister of Hernandez’s girlfriend.

As reported yesterday, while not initially deemed a suspect, Hernandez was named a person of interest due to the fact a car rented under Hernandez’s name was a key piece of evidence police were examining.

Earlier today, it was reported that Hernandez was now unwilling to cooperate and given the most recent information pertaining to the relationship between Odin and Hernandez, things are looking bleak for Hernandez.

We’ll continue to update the story as information leaks.

June 11, 2013; Irving, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant (88) makes a catch during minicamp at Dallas Cowboys Headquarters. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Dez Bryant insists he is more mature and that he has “found himself.” This has Dallas Cowboys fans breathing a sigh of relief after watching their enigmatic young star get into off field trouble on a regular basis.

And while it might be hard to believe Jerry Jones and Jason Garrett have noticed a change in Dez as well.

“Dez is in a better place relative to anything that the Cowboys are interested in, which is most everything about him,” Jones said earlier this year.

But the turning point could have been when Dez Bryant became the seventh athlete to sign with Nike’s Jordan brand. Bryant credits Michael Jordan for telling him to “stay out of trouble.”

“They almost treat him like a little brother,” Bryant’s mentor David Wells told FOXSportsSouthwest.com. “Dez started listening to older people instead of the young guys. Those guys are both married and have stable lives. And that’s something Dez craves.”

Bryant made waves as a rookie when he refused to carry wide receiver Roy Williams pads, now he finds himself on the other side of the coin and is mentoring third-round draft pick wide receiver Terrance Williams.

“That’s one of the things that Michael Jordan preached to him,” Wells said. “He wants him to develop as a leader.”

Dez seems ready for this upcoming season and has expressed his desire to contest with Calvin Johnson for NFL records, like a 2,000 yard receiving season. But first, he needs to stay out of trouble.

Jun. 11, 2013; Glendale, AZ, USA: Arizona Cardinals safety Tyrann Mathieu (32) during mini camp at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The Arizona Cardinals drafted Tyrann Mathieu in the third round of April’s NFL Draft. Mathieu could end up being a steal in the draft after slipping to the third round. Coming of a season as Heisman Finalist in his sophomore year, he had a huge year projected for his junior season. That included potentially being drafted in the first round.

After some off-field issues and missing his entire junior season to resolve personal issues, Mathieu’s draft stock slipped and the Cardinals got the defensive back in the third round.

Arizona Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians was asked whether Mathieu could make an immediate impact by Steve Wyche of NFL Network’s NFL AM.

“I don’t think there’s any doubt,” Arians said, via NFL.com. “He’s getting his hands on a lot of balls. The guy’s got amazing instincts and closing speed.”

Mathieu is set up to succeed in Arizona. His friend and former teammate Patrick Peterson plays there, and he spent time training with Peterson ahead of the draft earlier in the year.

Right now the Cardinals have Yeremiah Bell and Rashad Johnson listed as the starting safeties on the team’s site.

Beat writer Darren Urban said that Mathieu “is going to play in some way, shape or form, including nickel corner sometimes. You just don’t see it any other way.”

But if he continues to impress he could win the free safety starting job.

Feb 7, 2012; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New Jersey governor Chris Christie (right) applauds as New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning addresses the crowd during the Super Bowl XLVI victory celebration at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports

There technically is no New Jersey NFL team, but two NFL teams play in New Jersey. Both the New York Giants and the New York Jets play at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

And the New York Giants biggest rival arguably is their divisional foe, the Dallas Cowboys.

So New Jersey Governor Chris Christie had a secret he felt he couldn’t hold in any more.

” … my favorite football team is not the New York Giants, it’s not the New York Jets and it’s not the Philadelphia Eagles. Get ready now: My favorite football team (is) the Dallas Cowboys – which, by the way — is not the smartest thing for the governor of New Jersey to want to be, is a fan of the Dallas Cowboys,” Christie said, via NFL.com.

Christie was talking to students at Samsel Upper Elementary School when he discussed his favorite teams that included the New York Mets, New York Rangers and New York Knicks.

Interesting because at one time New Jersey had an NBA franchise, before they moved to Brooklyn. And they currently have a NHL team, the New Jersey Devils.

But Christie tried to explain why he likes the Cowboys to the students.

“I was a big fan when I was your age,” he said. “I was a big fan of Roger Staubach, who was the quarterback for the Cowboys back then. The Giants and the Jets pretty much stunk when I was a kid and my father was a Giants fan. I used to remember watching him when I was eight, nine years old and every Sunday he would watch the Giants and yell at the TV set. I used to think to myself, ‘Why would I want to root for a team that makes you angry?’”

Not a bad move for someone considering a presidential run in 2016. Texas has a lot of electoral votes.

Feb 3, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis (85) catches a pass against the Baltimore Ravens in Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis has been a leader on this team for some time. But despite his leadership skills, he has never had a 1,000 yard receiving season.

Why? Who knows? There was some turbulence in his career with the 49ers as they rotated through offensive coordinators on a seemingly annual basis for a while. But in an effort to get Davis more involved in the San Francisco 49ers offense, he might spread out and play more wide receiver.

Grant Cohn of the Santa Rosa Press Democrat noted that Vernon Davis participated exclusively with the wide receivers during the 49ers past mini-camp.

“The Niners probably need him to play more wide out because their best receiver, Anquan Boldin, is a much better slot receiver than outside receiver at this stage in his career. During team drills, Boldin lined up in the slot the vast majority of the time.”

“The 49ers need an outside receiver who can stretch the field, like Randy Moss and Mario Manningham did last season. Davis may be the best candidate on the roster to fill that role this season.”

Michael Crabtree being injured is also probably playing a role in this move as well. But Vernon Davis could become an interesting FA draft pick if he is listed as a TE but getting time at wide receiver as well. He could have some better numbers.

Dec 16, 2012; Foxboro, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez (81) on the side line during the third quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Gillette Stadium. The San Francisco 49ers won 41-34. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports

New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez is the talk of Boston after authorities in relation to a murder investigation. A man that is described as an “associate” of Hernandez was found dead less than a mile from his house and a car rented in Hernandez’s name has been linked to the crime.

While there were reports last night that Hernandez was not a suspect, that may not be the truth.

In a report Wednesday morning, police are saying that Hernandez has not been ruled out as a suspect and that he is not cooperating with police.

BREAKING: Law enforcement source tells @karenreports that Aaron Hernandez has not been ruled out as a suspect. He is not cooperating. #wbz

— Peter Wilson (@PetesWire) June 19, 2013

This is trouble.

While one tight end is recovering from surgery that could keep him out of the team’s season-opener, the Patriots have to be very concerned with what is in Hernandez’s future.

This is obviously a very fluid situation, but it is beginning to look worse and worse for Hernandez.

Earlier this morning, police spent hours searching his home before emerging with a box that could contain evidence. Two men were also detained when they tried to flee the home as police arrived.

We will keep you updated on the situation as more information becomes available.

Jun. 11, 2013; Glendale, AZ, USA: Arizona Cardinals running back Rashard Mendenhall during mini camp at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

It didn’t take long for free agent signee Rashard Mendenhall to establish himself as the Arizona Cardinals starting running back. Last week, reports emerged that Mendenhall would be the starting tailback and today Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians confirmed the news during an appearance on NFL Network’s “NFL AM”.

Despite coming off of knee surgery, Mendenhall will be ready to go for the start of the season and he will be heavily featured in the offense.

“Rashard is just 25 years old (turns 26 on Wednesday),” Arians said. “He took me personally to a Super Bowl, and I know what he can bring to the table as a runner and a pass protector and also a receiver. He’s an every-down player. And I think he’s looking forward to having an outstanding season.”

It says a lot about Arians’ belief in Mendenhall that he is putting so much confidence in the former first-rounder and that confidence should go a long way with Mendenhall.

If there are no injuries during the preseason, we could finally see the pre-injury Mendenhall that looked like an early star with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Nov 6, 2011; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys former quarterback Roger Staubach enters the field during a halftime ceremony against the Seattle Seahawks at Cowboys Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

At a time when Dallas Cowboys fans and NFL analysts everywhere are still wondering what Tony Romo accomplished to deserve a $100 million contract, one Cowboys legend is coming forward to give a boost of confidence to the team’s starter and is going as far as to say the team is lucky to have him.

Pro Football Hall of Famer Roger Staubach was speaking on the radio, when he gave his full vote of confidence to Romo and said that he truly believes the former undrafted free agent has what it takes to lead this team to a championship.

“I’m a Tony Romo fan…” Staubach told KRLD-FM, per the Dallas Morning News. “I think Tony Romo is a championship quarterback. He can take a team to a championship. He can’t do it by himself, but I really believe he can do it. I just see what he does on the field, the plays he makes, the throws he makes, the sense that he has to move in the pocket so I’m pulling really hard for Tony because I really believe he is one heck of a quarterback, and that’s a feeling from somebody that I didn’t say that about any other quarterbacks except for Troy Aikman.

“I think Tony is the right quarterback, and we’re lucky to have Tony Romo.”

If the rest of the Cowboys fan base can rally behind Romo the way Staubach has, it could go a long way in helping the quarterback find a new comfort level that would allow him to relax and take the team where it needs to go.

This will be an interesting year for the Cowboys with Romo’s alleged “newly found focus”, so let’s see how it all plays out on the field this season.

Mar 8, 2013; Boston, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski watches a game between the Boston Celtics and the Atlanta Hawks during the first half at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports

While an associate of one New England Patriots tight end is allegedly involved in a murder investigation that has resulted in the searching of his home and questioning by police, another Patriots tight end’s doctor is speaking out about a recently successful surgery.

The doctor who performed the surgery on the back of Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski, Dr. Robert Watkins, said that the surgery went well and he has released a statement to confirm that.

“New England Patriots’ tight end Rob Gronkowski underwent a microscopic lumbar discectomy surgery performed by Dr. Robert Watkins at Marina Del Rey Hospital in Los Angeles,” the statement read, according to Christopher Price of WEEI.com. “The surgery went well. The timing of his return to football will depend on his progression through the rehabilitation program.”

It was just the latest in a long line of surgeries for Gronkowski this offseason, so it is good to hear that it all went according to plan.

The bad news is that his status for the team’s season-opener remains in jeopardy.

Typical recovery time from this type of surgery is 12 weeks. That puts a return past the week one date against the Buffalo Bills.

There is no doubt that Gronkowski will be back on the field in 2013 and spiking balls in an endzone near you, but he may just have to wait until further into the season to get his party bus rolling.

Dec 30, 2012; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts running back Vick Ballard (33) runs past Houston Texans outside linebacker Connor Barwin (98) during the game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports

There was few surprises in the NFL larger than the Indianapolis Colts. When they cut Peyton Manning last summer it looked like they were in for a long haul in terms of getting back to the glory days of being a playoff contender. But thanks to Andrew Luck and a resilient spirit the team showed they had, the Colts went from having the first pick in the draft the year prior to an AFC playoff team.

Among the players who stepped up for the Colts in 2012 was running back Vick Ballard. But despite turning in an amazing season which came out of nowhere, it looks like Ballard will once again be starting his season by taking a backseat to another running back. After the Colts signed free agent Ahmad Bradshaw, Evan Silva is reporting that Ballard is going to be relegated to backup duties once again.

 The signing of Ahmad Bradshaw tells you precisely how GM Ryan Grigson felt about his running back situation: It wasn’t good enough. Vick Ballard is a workmanlike, try-hard runner with backup-caliber talent.

It’s harsh to hear but it couldn’t be more true. While Ballard was solid for the Colts in 2012, he was so in a backup role and his worth seemed inflated due to the fact he had no one running behind him and he was the guy coming in as a replacement. Fans love a replacement that does well but the bar isn’t set nearly as high for a backup as it is for a starter.

Bradshaw is the clear cut No. 1 running back in Indianapolis and rightfully so. He’s proven he’s worth it while with the New York Giants and had it not been for an injury and some salary cap concerns, Bradshaw would likely still be there.

But he’s not and he’s going to start for the Colts until either he’s injured or Ballard beats him out of a job but the latter is far less likely to happen than the former.

Dec. 2, 2012; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets cornerback Antonio Cromartie (31) kneels in the endzone before the game against the Arizona Cardinals at MetLife Stadium. Jets won 7-6. Mandatory Credit: Debby Wong-USA TODAY Sports

Ah yes, the poor, poor Antonio Cromartie who suffers from being overly successful. It must be so difficult.

Speaking to the New York Post today, the former Florida State product and current New York Jets corner said that while he’s the best defensive back in the league (when he feels like putting forth the effort, mind you) – it’s not something he wants to be.

No, that’s what he said. Really.

The Jets’ new No. 1 cornerback believes if he can stay consistent he could be the best in the game, even better than you know who in Tampa Bay.

“I think so if I’m playing on a consistent basis and using my techniques and doing the things I need to do,” Cromartie told The Post last week.

Even though he believes he can be the best, Cromartie said that is not his goal heading into the 2013 season.

“Can I be? Yes. Do I care to be? No,” he said. “If we’re winning and I’m doing the things I need to do, then that’s what it’s really all about.”

On one hand, Cromartie should be applauded for his honesty and weird attempt at trying to be a team player but on the other hand, somebody needs to remove the hallucinogenic kool-aid he’s drinking.

That stuff is clearly bad for your brain, but apparently not your fertility.

Jan 13, 2013; Foxboro, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez (81) reacts against the Houston Texans during the first half of the AFC divisional round playoff game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

Yikes. Bad news for both the New England Patriots and Aaron Hernandez as the Pats tight end is currently being questioned by police in a homicide investigation.

As of this moment, Hernandez is not considered a suspect though a car rented in his name has become a key piece of evidence in the investigation.

Per Sports Illustrated:

New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez was questioned by police investigating a possible homicide in this town 40 miles south of Boston. A source with knowledge of the investigation said Massachusetts State police spoke to Hernandez on Monday and were interested in possibly searching his home.

A rented 2013 Chevrolet Suburban is the vehicle in question, which was linked to previously being used by Hernandez.

The investigation is stemming from the discovery of a 27 year old male jogger who was found dead on Monday, less than a mile from Hernandez’s home.

There are no further details available at this time and the Patriots tight end has declined comment.

Jan 20, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) throws in the pocket against the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship game at the Georgia Dome. The 49ers won 28-24. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

The Atlanta Falcons and franchise quarterback Matt Ryan have had “casual” contract negotiations but don’t appear ready to strike a deal just yet.

Pro Football Talk is reporting that while both sides have exchanged figures and have talked occasionally, a deal is more likely to be struck after the Fourth of July.

Per Mike Florio:

Per a source with knowledge of the situation, casual talks currently are occurring, with an expectation that things will heat up after the July 4 holiday.

The Falcons nor Ryan have much reason to rush a deal as the former Boston College quarterback still has a year left on his contract, though, it has been reported that defensive tackle Richard Seymour will not be able to sign with Atlanta until Ryan and the Falcons agree on a new deal.

How much Ryan will get is currently an unknown, though, it’s expected he’s seeking a deal somewhere in the range of Joe Flacco‘s contract which would pay $20 million (give or take) annually.

Jan 20, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons tight end Tony Gonzalez (88) reacts after losing the NFC Championship game against the San Francisco 49ers at the Georgia Dome. The 49ers won 28-24. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Initially upon learning about Tony Gonzalez receiving the 2013 Good Guy Award from the Professional Football Writers of America, many people would react in the same way.

“What is the actual name of the award?”

Well, the title says it all, and Gonzalez’s acknowledgement as the ultimate good guy is just that, as that is the actual name of the award bestowed upon the future Hall-of-Fame Tight End. Gonzalez has been known for years as a tremendous player and person on and off of the field, but this award showcases professionalism in assisting the media in performing their everyday tasks.

On the field, Gonzalez is the best statistical tight end of all-time, having caught 1,242 balls for 14,268 yards and a record-shattering 100 touchdowns in his career. However, all reports are that he is even better off of the field, and he’s been renowned for his work in nutrition, as well as helping the community.

Gonzalez was originally set to retire following the 2012 season, but Thomas Dimitroff (the Falcons GM) and company lured him back for one more season after Atlanta was unceremoniously bounced from the playoffs with an NFC Title Game loss to San Francisco. While Gonzalez’s prospects to repeat as the “Good Guy” award winner are unknown, the Falcons will be competing for their 2nd trip to the Super Bowl in franchise history, and Tony will be right in the middle of the discussion on and off the field.