With the Cleveland Indians bidding adieu to Chief Wahoo, many believed the NFL would see the Washington Redskins change their nickname as well.
The NFL is the biggest pro sports organization in the United States, and have tried their best to be at the forefront of social change. However, Washington Redskins owner Dan Snyder has decided it is best to keep his franchise with the same nickname it has had since its inception. While the Redskins nickname has an obviously racist connotation, Snyder will not be changing it, which is a head-scratching decision at this point.
In AFC West news, it looks like the Kansas City Chiefs may decide to change quarterbacks next season. Alex Smith played superb football for the team this season, but he is unsure of his future with the team. Kansas City traded up to draft Patrick Mahomes in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft, and has the tools to be a solid player at the NFL level, which puts Smith’s tenure in Kansas City in jeopardy.
Staying with the AFC West, it looks like Derek Carr will have a new quarterback’s coach next season. New head coach Jon Gruden plucked Brian Callahan from the Detroit Lions, after Callahan worked the last two seasons with Lions star Matthew Stafford. Carr had a down season in 2017, as he battled back from some major injuries, though he should be in for a standout season in 2018 with Gruden and Callahan coaching him.
The Carolina Panthers made it back to the playoffs after missing out in 2016, just one year after making it to the Super Bowl. Starting center Ryan Kalil will be with the team in 2018, but he plans to retire after the season, which makes adding depth at the position a necessity this offseason. Kalil is a five-time Pro Bowl player, but he is also 33-years old, and the 2018 season will be his 12th and final campaign.
Next: Super Bowl 52: Patriots vs. Eagles preview
In 2018 NFL Draft news, it looks like Shaquem Griffin has finally been invited to the NFL Scouting Combine. Griffin helped lead UCF to an undefeated season in 2017, and was a standout player despite not having a left hand. The 22-year old is the twin brother of Shaquill Griffin, who is a cornerback for the Seattle Seahawks. His invitation is very well deserved, and he should be a player in the league next season.