Fantasy News
Mike Gesicki | Bengals TE
The Dolphins are placing the franchise tag on Mike Gesicki.
While Gesicki might not be a top-tier run blocker in a Mike McDaniel offense that is going to want to run the ball, it’s not a surprise that the Dolphins are tagging an extremely talented tight end target in Gesicki. The former second-round pick would make around $11 million on the franchise tag (though he might argue he should be designated as a wide receiver, which would make him more money on the tag), but we’ll see if he and Miami can agree to a long-term deal by the deadline this summer. Gesicki scored just twice last season, but he’s coming off career-highs in receptions (73) and yardage (780).
Via: Adam Schefter
Calvin Ridley | Titans WR
Calvin Ridley has been suspended indefinitely for gambling on NFL games.
Ridley’s suspension is for at least the 2022 season, and it could last beyond that considering how strict the league is on gambling. The former first-round pick bet on games after leaving the team last season, but it’s still a very serious violation, and the NFL’s letter says his actions “put the integrity of the game at risk.” Ridley can file for reinstatement after next year’s Super Bowl, and he can also appeal the suspension within three days. The former Alabama star will turn 28 in December (he was considered old for a rookie), so the suspension standing would have Ridley back on the field in the final year of his rookie deal for his age-28/29 campaign. This season, the Falcons will have his salary completely off the books, but surely they cannot be happy about Ridley’s suspension knocking out his trade value after he left the team in the middle of last year. From a fantasy perspective, Ridley’s dynasty value has nose-dived over the past several months, but it might not be a bad idea to buy-low from a frustrated owner.
Jack Doyle | Retired TE
Jack Doyle has announced his retirement from the NFL.
The veteran tight end—turning 32 in May—had one year remaining on his deal, but he’s hanging up his cleats after nine seasons in the league. Doyle’s best year came in 2017 when he caught 80 passes for 690 yards and four touchdowns, and overall, the former undrafted free agent had 295 receptions, 2,729 yards, and 24 touchdowns since entering the NFL in 2013. Doyle was a very reliable player for Indy, so they will need to replace him as the franchise tries to get back in the playoffs next year, especially with Mo Alie-Cox set to hit free agency. We wish Doyle all the best in the future.
Andy Janovich | Texans FB
The Browns are declining Andy Janovich’s option.
Janovich will now become an unrestricted free agent when the new league year begins a week from tomorrow. The veteran fullback should get a good look from teams in need of a fullback this offseason.
Via: Ian Rapoport
David Njoku | Browns TE
The Browns have tagged David Njoku.
This is a bit of a surprise considering the Browns have Harrison Bryant and Austin Hooper at tight end, but perhaps Cleveland is set to move on from Hooper. Regardless, Njoku would make around $11 million if he plays on the franchise tag this season, but we’d think the Browns will want to try to agree to a long-term deal with the athletic tight end in the coming weeks.
Via: Ian Rapoport