
<p>On Wednesday, <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-return-to-buccaneers-and-four-other-options-for-tom-brady-20230118-SPD-3332.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tom Brady</a> </strong>announced his retirement from the National Football League. As a player for the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/there-was-no-respect-there-ryan-fitzpatrick-reveals-why-tom-brady-annoys-him-2769-20220916-SPD-2769.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New England Patriots</a></strong> and <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-tom-brady-could-retire-for-good-in-2023-if-bucaneers-win-super-bowl-2204-20220714-SPD-2204.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a></strong>, the GOAT provided fans with many memorable moments over the course of 23 seasons.</p>



<p>The 45-year-social old’s media video retirement announcement was his second consecutive year away from the sport of football. However, this retirement, according to Brady, is “for real” as opposed to the temporary retirement he took last year (which lasted just 40 days).</p>



<p>If this is it for Brady, he will go down in history as the greatest of all time. He leaves the league with several throwing records, including the most in Super Bowl victories, playoff victories, yards, and touchdown passes. Listed below are the four highlights of his professional career.</p>



<h2>4. First Super Bowl victory</h2>



<p>After Drew Bledsoe was injured in 2001, Brady was thrust into the starting lineup. However, at this stage in his career, he was still simply a game manager, and thus, very few people thought that the former sixth-round selection and a strong Patriots defense had a chance against the then-St. Louis Rams and the “Greatest Show on Turf.” In retrospect, it’s clear that Super Bowl XXXVI was only the first of many reminders of why it’s a bad idea to write off Brady</p>



<p>After scoring 14 unanswered points to make the score 17-17 with under a minute to play, the Rams seemed to have momentum on their side. Brady has no intention of postponing his Super Bowl party because of the extra time. The then-second-year professional displayed remarkable composure, completing five of eight throws, and setting the stage for Vinatieri’s game-winning field goal as time expired, giving the Patriots their first Super Bowl victory.</p>



<h2>3. Return to New England</h2>



<p>Every Patriots fan marked October 3, 2021, on their calendars when Brady departed New England. It was Brady’s first home game in Foxborough since his return. It was hoped that this game would allow fans to finally watch Tom Brady go up against Bill Belichick, who has been Brady’s coach for most of his career.</p>



<p>When Tom Brady made his first trip to Gillette Stadium as an opponent, New England fans got to see him one final time. During the thrilling victory, Brady set a new mark for throwing yards. With the 19-17 victory against Bill Belichick’s club, Brady joined an exclusive group of just three other quarterbacks in NFL history who had defeated each of the league’s 32 teams.</p>



<h2>2. Seventh and final Super Bowl victory</h2>



<p>Some speculated that Brady will hand over the reins to a younger star in Super Bowl LV. In any case, Brady’s game-winning effort served as a timely reminder that he was, indeed, the greatest quarterback of all time. While Mahomes struggled, the veteran quarterback was perfect, leading the team to a 31-9 victory against the Kansas City Chiefs.</p>



<p>As of the 2020 season, Brady’s seven Super Bowl victories gave him more Lombardi Trophies than any NFL franchise. After 20 seasons in New England, the quarterback startled the sports world by announcing he was leaving for a new team, where he promptly won the Super Bowl</p>



<h2>1. 2016-17 Super Bowl LI</h2>



<p>By the middle of the third quarter, the Patriots were down 25 points to the Atlanta Falcons, and it seemed like Brady had shown his human side. While the signal-caller may have been brought to earth in the first half, by the time the confetti had settled, they had achieved almost mythological status.</p>



<p>Brady was flawless as he led the Patriots to a 28-28 tie with two minutes remaining in regulation. This is the best comeback by the greatest ever. Brady attained sports immortality by creating a moment that can be internationally remembered with just one simple phrase: “28-3.” This was the crowning achievement in a long series of honors, awards, and victories for Brady.</p>


Top 4 best moments of Tom Brady's NFL career

Top 4 best moments of Tom Brady's NFL career - thesportsdrops NEWS

miniaturas


<p>The <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-return-to-buccaneers-and-four-other-options-for-tom-brady-20230118-SPD-3332.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL divisional playoffs</a></strong> ended many debates over who the top teams were. The league’s four finest clubs will square off in the conference finals. The Philadelphia Eagles defeated the New York Giants by a large margin, proving once again that they are a top-tier NFL club and a legitimate title contender. </p>



<p>The NFC Championship Game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the San Francisco 49ers will be played on January 21 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The 49ers advanced by defeating the Dallas Cowboys, setting up the conference’s top-two seeds against each other.</p>



<p>This year’s AFC Championship Game features a rematch between the Kansas City Chiefs and Cincinnati Bengals, two of the greatest teams in the league. Although Patrick Mahomes played through a high ankle injury to help the Chiefs beat the Jaguars, Joe Burrow led the Bengals to a dominating win against the Bills in Buffalo’s snow.</p>



<h2>AFC Championship – Kansas City Chiefs</h2>



<p>Already, the anticipated rematch between the Chiefs and Bengals from last year’s AFC championship game is exciting. When you add in <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-kickers-in-nfl-history-20221228-SPD-3287.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Patrick Mahomes</a></strong> and Joe Burrow and consider that Mahomes is playing with a high-ankle sprain, you have a recipe for another classic in the NFL.</p>



<p>Mahomes is 0-3 against Burrow in the previous two years, including a 27-24 overtime loss in last year’s AFC Championship Game that Kansas City squandered after leading 21-10 in the second quarter. The average margin of victory in those games has been three points, with Cincinnati outscoring Kansas City 26-6 in the last frame and overtime.</p>



<p>Since they had a winning record at Arrowhead Stadium during the regular season, they have a solid shot of beating the Bengals there. Though the Chiefs eventually prevailed 27-20 against the Jaguars in the Divisional Round, the Chiefs’ offensive line had been the league’s deadliest throughout the regular season.</p>



<h2>NFC Championship – San Francisco 49ers</h2>



<p>Unfortunately for fans of both teams, the 49ers and Eagles have only ever met once in the playoffs (the 49ers won 14-0 in the 1996 NFC Wild Card round). Both of today’s starting quarterbacks, Jalen Hurts and Brock Purdy, weren’t even conceived then. This will be the youngest NFC Championship Game ever, with Hurts (24 years, 175 days) facing off against Purdy (23 years, 33 days).</p>



<p>In his first year as a starter, Purdy became just the fourth quarterback to win a conference title after being taken in the sixth round or later (or going undrafted). It marks the 49ers’ 18th trip to the NFL’s conference championship game (and third in the last four years). As far as we can tell, they are the only NFC club that has never been to Philadelphia for a playoff game.</p>



<p>Kyle Shanahan has played in an NFC Conference Championship game before, in 2021 when his team fell 20-17 to the Los Angeles Rams. Hopes have been raised, their performance has improved, and Purdy seems to be the frontrunner to start next season.</p>


NFL: The 2 heavy favorites to take home 2023 Conference Championship title

NFL: The 2 heavy favorites to take home 2023 Conference Championship title - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>After a miserable 31-14 defeat to the Cowboys on Monday night, <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-tom-brady-could-retire-for-good-in-2023-if-bucaneers-win-super-bowl-2204-20220714-SPD-2204.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tom Brady</a></strong> and the Buccaneers’ playoff hopes for this year are officially over. This was just Brady’s fourth one-and-done performance in his 23 seasons as an NFL starting quarterback, and the loss was the second most lopsided of his career. </p>



<p>The 45-year-old told reporters he would ‘take it one day at a time’ in the wake of Monday’s defeat, being characteristically evasive. Being a free agent, this season marked Brady’s third season with the Bucs, and it very well may have been his last, either by the team’s or his own decision.</p>



<p>It’s possible that Brady may revisit his old stomping grounds in Tampa. It’s possible he’ll look for a new team to play for. He even could decide to call it quits at some point once again. In any case, what choices does he have? Let’s find out.</p>



<h2>Return to Buccaneers</h2>



<p>It’s no secret that Brady gets along well with the team’s higher-ups, especially the Glazer family, who own the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/tom-brady-takes-leave-from-buccaneers-until-august-20-for-personal-matters-2506-20220811-SPD-2506.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Buccaneers</a></strong> and helped lure Brady away from the Patriots in 2020. Compared to other NFL locales, Tampa, Florida, must be a lot more pleasant now that he’s reached the end of his career. And he leaves behind a short but significant legacy as a Buccaneer, ending a decade of club irrelevance with an MVP-caliber championship run.</p>



<h2>Join Jets</h2>



<p>Currently, the Jets’ sole evident need is for a veteran quarterback. Meanwhile, Brady’s arrival would instantly restore respectability to a locker room that cheered Zach Wilson’s demotion that year. For the most part, what’s holding things up is whether or not the Jets would rather have a somewhat longer-term potential.</p>



<h2>Go back to Patriots</h2>



<p>Despite the general public’s disapproval, here is where Brady made his mark, and he is still respected among his peers. The Patriots’ offense may be revamped without a financial problem. Mac Jones has to move over here and regain his bearings. It would also serve as a logical stepping stone for Brady’s eventual transition into full retirement.</p>



<h2>Join Titans</h2>



<p>Prior to re-signing Ryan Tannehill, the Titans explored a free-agent deal with Brady in 2020. The departure of general manager Jon Robinson and the hiring of coach Mike Vrabel gives the quarterback a chance to return to his roots as a quarterback.</p>



<h2>Join 49ers</h2>



<p>On paper, this seems like a match made in heaven: Brady grew up in the Bay Area and has always had a soft spot for the 49ers, and his ability to make split-second decisions and read the field effectively makes him a great fit for a system designed to get the ball to its playmakers as quickly as possible. However, the team may not be able to afford to change a winning recipe only to bring together a renowned name and a legendary team.</p>


NFL: Return to Buccaneers and four other options for Tom Brady

NFL: Return to Buccaneers and four other options for Tom Brady - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>The <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-running-in-nfl-history-20230104-SPD-3304.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pittsburgh Steelers</a></strong> are the seventh-oldest team in the National Football League, having been established in 1933. They have won six Super Bowls, the most recent being in 2008. This puts them in a tie for second place with the New England Patriots.</p>



<p>The Steelers are a football team from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, that plays in the American Football Conference (AFC) North of the National Football League (NFL). The Steelers are the AFC’s oldest team and the seventh-oldest in the NFL, having entered the league in 1933.</p>



<p>The Pittsburgh Pirates, the predecessor of the modern-day Steelers, were founded in the early 1920s as a regional professional football club. They were accepted into the NFL on July 8, 1933. The team’s current home field is Acrisure Stadium, located in the North Shore section of Pittsburgh.</p>



<h2>5. James Farrior</h2>



<p>James Farrior was a crucial element of the Steelers’ defenses and helped the club win two Super Bowls because of his substance rather than his flare. His 104 value points put him well ahead of any other player in his position during his period. You can’t win championships without the players that put in the dirty labor, and Farrior’s name is on that list when you look up team player and contributor.</p>



<h2>4. Casey Hampton</h2>



<p>Big and powerful, Casey Hampton left his mark on the field. He was the mainstay of the 3-4 defense that helped the team win two Super Bowls, despite weighing over 300 pounds. Since defenses are equally as crucial to victory as attacks, Hampton ranks well. A look at his numbers doesn’t provide with an accurate picture of his impact.</p>



<h2>3. Terry Bradshaw</h2>



<p>There is nothing more to be said about Terry Bradshaw. He was the quarterback for four championship teams, was named Super Bowl MVP twice, and had an outsized character to match. The position of quarterback is his forte, and he ranks among the all-time greats. Terry Brady existed long before Tom Brady did.</p>



<h2>2. Ben Roethlisberger</h2>



<p>Ben Roethlisberger, despite some controversy, is ranked higher than Terry Bradshaw because of his superior individual statistics. Roethlisberger has twice led the NFL in passing yards, and he did it in a more technologically sophisticated period than Bradshaw. He led the club to two Super Bowl victories in the modern period, which is no small feat. Big Ben deserves praise for its efficiency.</p>



<h2>1. Joe Greene</h2>



<p><strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-wide-receivers-in-nfl-history-20221231-SPD-3297.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Joe Greene</a></strong> is the best Steeler of all time. Greene is the only one who really nails the city’s work ethic. In the era of the “Steel Curtain,” he dominated the field defensively. Fans of the Pittsburgh Steelers hold him in the highest regard and use him as a standard by which other players are evaluated.</p>


NFL: Top 5 best Pittsburgh Steelers players of all time

NFL: Top 5 best Pittsburgh Steelers players of all time - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>Finding a franchise quarterback who can lead the team to victory is like finding a needle in a haystack during the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-running-in-nfl-history-20230104-SPD-3304.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL Draft</a>.</strong> Offensive quarterbacks often need more time than defensive players to get comfortable with the playbook, the scheme, and their bodies.</p>



<p>Inevitably, there will be an out. Joe Burrow, Kyler Murray, and Justin Herbert have dominated from the start of the season on. Historically speaking, it wasn’t standard practice for clubs to invest early draft selections in quarterbacks.</p>



<p>There are no sure bets since <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/tom-brady-takes-leave-from-buccaneers-until-august-20-for-personal-matters-2506-20220811-SPD-2506.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tom Brady</a></strong> was the 199th choice in his Draft. Nonetheless, the following quarterbacks were widely regarded as future Hall of Famers, but they all but squandered their potential and eventually retired from the NFL due to poor performance.</p>



<h2>3. Akili Smith (1999)</h2>



<p>After his time at Oregon, Smith seemed to be a dangerous dual-threat quarterback with the ability to extend plays with his feet and rack up big yardage totals.</p>



<p>Smith seemed to be completely out of sync with his receivers from day one and was unable to make any necessary adjustments. He stopped playing after the 2002 season with a career-throwing stat line of 2,212 yards, 5 TDs against 13 INTs, and retirement.</p>



<h2>2. Ryan Leaf (1998)</h2>



<p>Ryan Leaf was compared to Peyton Manning very often. He thrived at Washington State and had all the physical qualities to become a lethal passer and the future face of the league. He spent only three seasons in the NFL before being demoted to practice squads.</p>



<p>All of Leaf’s endeavors were failures. He was clumsy, slow, and inaccurate when throwing to open receivers. He left the game with a quarterback rating of 50, 3,666 passing yards, 14 touchdowns, and a shocking 36 interceptions.</p>



<h2>1. JaMarcus Russell (2007)</h2>



<p>Without a doubt, JaMarcus Russell is the most disappointing player in NFL history. Just two years after being selected, he had fallen from LSU legend status and the status of “can’t-miss talent” to the fringes of professional sports.</p>



<p>As he was high on codeine, Russell had stopped watching movies and working out. He was built for greatness and possessed the arm power and accuracy to become a legendary quarterback, but instead, he retired with 4,803 career passing yards, 18 touchdowns, 23 interceptions, and 15 fumbles. Six years and $68 million later, the Raiders still owed him $31.5 million of the total.</p>


Top 3 quarterback flops in NFL draft history

Top 3 quarterback flops in NFL draft history - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>The running back position has been an integral part of the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-wide-receivers-in-nfl-history-20221231-SPD-3297.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a></strong> since its beginnings. In the modern era of American football, where quarterbacks and high-octane speed create the game, a dominant rush assault will prove to be the deciding factor in the outcome of games.</p>



<p>While big passes are exciting to see, nothing beats the joy of a great run defense being carved apart. Even though the running back position has evolved with the modern game of football, the history of the National Football League has a history of great ball carriers.</p>



<p>By the middle of the 2000s, having a backfield standout might be a huge advantage since many of the NFL’s all-time best running backs retired decades earlier. Several current athletes have also achieved legendary status in their respective professions. Check out the top three running backs in NFL history.</p>



<h2>3. Walter Payton</h2>



<p>The NFL record for rushing yards was held by Walter “Sweetness” Payton until 2002 when Emmitt Smith surpassed him. In addition, his 110 rushing touchdowns rank fourth all-time.</p>



<p>He was the 1977 Super Bowl XX winner and was selected to the Pro Bowl nine times. After scoring a touchdown, he was so proud of himself that he threw the ball to the referee instead of continuing the celebration.</p>



<h2>2. Jim Brown</h2>



<p>This 8-time All-Pro and 3-time MVP was more than just a fullback; he played in every game of his NFL career. A fearsome combination of size and speed allowed the massive Brown to run on defenseman with ease, and he did it seven times in all but one season, playing in 12 or 14 games each time.</p>



<p>Throughout his career, Brown scored more than one touchdown each game and set a new NFL record of 5.2 meters per track.</p>



<h2>1. Emmitt Smith</h2>



<p>After 15 years and 226 games in the NFL, <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-kickers-in-nfl-history-20221228-SPD-3287.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Emmitt Smith</a></strong> topped the list of all-time rushers. Smith, who finished last, ran the ball 4,409 times for 18,355 yards in his career.</p>



<p>Averaging 4.2 yards per carry and scoring 175 times. Smith’s career average from scrimmage to reception is 21.579 yards, which he achieved over the course of 13 years with Dallas and two with Arizona.</p>


Top 3 running backs in NFL history

Top 3 running backs in NFL history - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>The <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-centers-in-nfl-history-20221230-SPD-3292.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a></strong> may have had one of the most racially and ethnically diverse rosters after 1985, but professional football has had tremendous popularity since at least the 1930s. At now, the wide receiver position is the most important one in the NFL.</p>



<p>When things go well or wrong for a team, the biggest outs, next to the quarterback, seem to garner the most scrutiny. Many wide receivers (WRs) over the years have won championships and even reigned as “kings” of the sport.</p>



<p>Even superstar athletes like Odell Beckham and Antonio Brown are always in the spotlight these days, as they serve as the public face of their respective teams and the NFL itself. What follows is a ranking of the best three <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-kickers-in-nfl-history-20221228-SPD-3287.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wide receivers</a></strong> in NFL history.</p>



<h2>3. Randy Moss</h2>



<p>The tone for Moss’s career was established early in his debut year when he led the league with 17 goals. Moss led the NFL with five touchdown catches and was selected to the First Team All-Pro four times. He scored 23 touchdowns in a single season in 2007, setting a new record.</p>



<h2>2. Marvin H. Harrison</h2>



<p>Marvin Harrison, an eight-time Pro Bowler who played for 13 years and amassed 14,580 yards and 128 touchdowns, retired from the NFL in 2009. He finished his career with the Indianapolis Colts.</p>



<p>When the Colts beat the Bears in Super Bowl XLI, Harrison got his hands on a ring. He has previously been a Pro Football Hall of Fame finalist in 2014 and 2015.</p>



<h2>1. Jerry Rice</h2>



<p>Having been selected to the Pro Bowl 11 times and to the All-Pro first team 10 times, Rice holds NFL records that will never be broken. Twice he had the most receptions in the league, and on six occasions he had the most receiving yards or touchdowns.</p>



<p>His thirties were a time of great improvement, as he amassed more yards than his twenties had seen. By the time he retired in 2006, Rice had thrown for 1,549 yards and 197 scores.</p>


Top 3 wide receivers in NFL history

Top 3 wide receivers in NFL history - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>While the center’s contributions to an <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-kickers-in-nfl-history-20221228-SPD-3287.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a></strong> team’s offense sometimes go undetected, they are crucial to the success of the team’s overall offense. Only a select few people have ever held this position with such high regard throughout the League’s existence.</p>



<p>Although we are all considering abilities and even mentioning offensive tackles by name if we want to seem particularly sage, centers are vital to any offensive plan.</p>



<p>Even though they play an important role, centers don’t always have the easiest time of it. Centers are underappreciated despite performing one of the few sports roles that require both cerebral and physical prowess. Check out the best centers in NFL history.</p>



<h2>3. Jim Ringo</h2>



<p>Jim Ringo was a key contributor in the Green Bay Packers’ two NFL championship runs in his last three seasons with the team. In 1961, the trio of Jim Taylor, Jim Ringo, and Paul Hornung accounted for an additional 1,800 yards on the ground.</p>



<p>Twenty-three touchdowns were the salt and pepper to the whole dish. After leaving the Packers after the 1963 season, Ringo played for the Philadelphia Eagles for four years, during which time he was named to the Pro Bowl three times.</p>



<h2>2. Mike Webster</h2>



<p>Webster may not have gotten the most recognition for the Pittsburgh Steelers four Super Bowl wins, but he was instrumental in keeping the team’s great offensive line together. To this day, he is still considered one of the finest defensive centers and creates space for Franco Harris. Webster had an integral role in the Pro Bowl every year from 1978 through 1985.</p>



<p>Webster left the Steelers after 16 years with the team. Webster was a major reason why Christian Okoye gained over 2,200 yards in a span of two seasons (1989 and 1990). The game Mike loved so much was finally purchased by him. The 50-year-old Hall of Fame center succumbed to injuries sustained while playing football.</p>



<h2>1. Jim Otto</h2>



<p>No matter the year, the Raiders standout was the top player in his position in the NFL. In order to protect quarterbacks like Tom Flores, Daryle Lamonica, and Ken Stabler, he was the best there was at what he did.</p>



<p>While Otto was a mauler, he also exemplified the league’s shift toward more athletic centers. He played in 308 consecutive games from 1960 to 1974, which is an impressive feat of endurance.</p>


Top 3 centers in NFL history

Top 3 centers in NFL history - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>Although <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-rumors-3-reasons-washington-commanders-playoff-chances-are-real-20221116-SPD-3157.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kickers</a></strong> are sometimes overlooked, they play a crucial role in the success of a football team. Like referees in other sports, kickers are expected to remain unsung heroes on the field.</p>



<p>When watching an <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-rookies-for-2022-23-nfl-season-20221207-SPD-3236.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL game</a></strong>, the sidelines often don’t get much attention. They’re trying to keep warm by repeatedly kicking the ball into the net.<br>They have to sit on the bench for the rest of the game and kick a 55-yard field goal to redeem themselves.</p>



<p>To earn the title of “greatest kicker of all time”, players must maintain a high level of performance in their field for an extended period of time, earning praise and admiration from their peers and building a solid reputation for their family in the process. Check out NFL history’s best kickers.</p>



<h2>3. Lou Groza</h2>



<p>Groza’s career wasn’t a rating winner. However, he made significant changes to the kicking industry. From 40-50 yards out, he was the first kicker to be challenged. Every year, the top kicker in college football receives the Lou Grossa award.</p>



<h2>2. Morten Andersen</h2>



<p>Morten Andersen, who lived a long life, had a career that is only rivaled by a few of the current players. Andersen has set several records over the course of his incredible 25-year career, including the most games played (382), most total field goals (565), and most earned points span (2,544).</p>



<p>He participated in seven Pro Bowls, was selected to the All-Pro team five times, and was just the second pure kicker to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.</p>



<h2>1. Justin Tucker</h2>



<p>With a career field goal percentage of 90.1% and just one point after a touchdown missed, Justin Tucker is the most accurate kicker in NFL history. He played in two Pro Bowls and was named to the First Team All-Pro for three consecutive seasons. He is also an accomplished grab kicker, with several of his kicks landing on the line.</p>


Top 3 kickers in NFL history

Top 3 kickers in NFL history - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>After 13 weeks, the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-rumors-3-reasons-washington-commanders-playoff-chances-are-real-20221116-SPD-3157.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2022 NFL rookie class</a></strong> still looks impressive. It’s possible that a few running backs may finish the season with 1,000 rushing yards, and a few receivers are on track to do the same.</p>



<p>As a group, the rookie defensive unit has recorded 70.5 sacks and 40 interceptions so far this season. Several members of the unit have already reached the three-sack mark. Brock Purdy, who will start for the injured Jimmy Garoppolo of the San Francisco 49ers, is among the quarterbacks with game experience.</p>



<p>At this point of the 2022-23 NFL season, the contenders for Rookie of the Year are dispersed. Only a little before the end of the regular season, and it has already been months since these rookies joined the professional ranks. As of right now, these are the three best NFL rookie players, as per <em>NFL.com.</em></p>



<h2>3. Tariq Woolen</h2>



<p>Despite entering the NFL as a developing prospect, <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-rumors-patrick-mahomes-and-potential-mvp-candidates-of-2022-season-20221108-SPD-3092.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Woolen</a></strong> has been technically sound thus far, which has helped showcase his exceptional athleticism. There have been four interceptions made by the long, nimble corner.</p>



<p>Woolen has kept the young Seahawks’ secondary organized and on the right track. His length and zone coverage have been outstanding, and he is a perfect match for the system. He has exceeded anyone’s expectations heading into the end of the season.</p>



<h2>2. Chris Olave</h2>



<p>With his refined route-running and surprising quickness, Olave has stood out as the most promising rookie wide receiver. The rookie from Ohio State has more receptions (43) and receiving yards than any other player (618).</p>



<p>Olave has improved route-running skills and perimeter speed, allowing him to glide past defenders in the vertical passing game and generate separation on second-level cuts. On the season, Olave has caught 11 balls that turned into big plays, and he has a catch average of over 15 yards.</p>



<h2>1. Sauce Gardner</h2>



<p>Gardner is well on his way to becoming one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL. His two interceptions this season have been game-changers for the Jets, and he had another in their recent upset victory against the Bills.</p>



<p>Gardner has a chance to become the first rookie from the Jets to be picked for the Pro Bowl since safety Erik McMillan in 1988. The amount of times quarterbacks has begun to turn the other way already shows his true stature among his peers, more so than the plays he has made, such as his involvement in restricting Justin Jefferson to 45 yards in Week 13.</p>


Top 3 rookies for 2022-23 NFL season

Top 3 rookies for 2022-23 NFL season - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>Things in the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-rumors-patrick-mahomes-and-potential-mvp-candidates-of-2022-season-20221108-SPD-3092.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Football League</a></strong> can change in the blink of an eye. If not, look at the <strong>Washington Commanders</strong>, who have just defeated the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/robert-quinn-of-eagles-set-to-accomplish-feat-not-witnessed-since-1930-20221028-SPD-3058.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia Eagles</a></strong> on the road against all odds.</p>



<p><strong>Ron Rivera</strong>’s men pulled off a shock on Monday night, taking down the 8-0 Eagles to hand <strong>Nick Sirianni</strong>’s team its first loss of the year and prove why their <strong>playoff hopes are still alive</strong>.</p>



<p>Many seemed to rule Washington out as a playoff contender due to its weak start to the season, which was understandable. But after this win, the outlook has changed and it’s time to see the Commanders <strong>as a potential playoff team</strong>.</p>



<h2>3. Chase Young returns</h2>



<p>In their massive win in Philly, the Commanders set the tempo and their defense made sure of shutting down Jalen Hurts’ offense. To make things even better, <strong>Chase Young</strong> is nearing his return.</p>



<p>The former Defensive Rookie of the Year has been on the sidelines since November 2021, when he suffered a torn ACL. Young is one of the best pass rushers in the league, so his addition would certainly boost an inspired Commanders’ defense.</p>



<h2>2. Favorable schedule</h2>



<p>If the Commanders look at their schedule, they should feel encouraged for what’s next. On the wheels of a promising result, it would make sense if Washington (5-5) gets enough victories in the next seven weeks to make the postseason.</p>



<p>First, they visit the 1-7-1 <strong>Texans</strong>. They’d later have to beat the 4-6 <strong>Falcons</strong>, who currently run from behind in the playoff picture. The following two divisional games against the <strong>Giants</strong> would be crucial, before facing the <strong>49ers</strong>, <strong>Browns</strong>, and <strong>Cowboys</strong>.</p>



<h2>1. Playoff picture wide open</h2>



<p>The <strong>NFC East</strong> is making things complicated for Washington, as right now it’s the only division of the conference with all four teams above .500. Even so, the Commanders are still on pace to clinch a playoff berth.</p>



<p>Washington is currently one place below the 49ers (5-4), who would claim the last Wild Card ticket today. But let’s keep in mind that it still has to face <strong>San Francisco</strong>, <strong>Dallas</strong> and <strong>New York </strong>(twice), who are all in playoff spots. Therefore, the Commanders <strong>depend on themselves</strong>.</p>


NFL Rumors: 3 reasons Washington Commanders playoff chances are real

NFL Rumors: 3 reasons Washington Commanders playoff chances are real - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>Nine weeks into the <strong>2022 NFL season</strong> may not be enough to predict how the year will end, but we may know what to expect. For instance, it’s safe to say <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-travis-kelce-believes-we-have-yet-to-see-the-best-of-patrick-mahomes-2546-20220818-SPD-2546.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Patrick Mahomes</a></strong> is on pace for the MVP award.</p>



<p>Of course, with so many games left, anything can happen. Even so, we can already tell that <strong>Aaron Rodgers</strong> will probably not grab the award for a third consecutive time — unless he does something unreal in the remainder of the campaign.</p>



<p>On the other hand, the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/kadarius-toney-of-giants-traded-to-chiefs-in-exchange-for-draft-picks-20221027-SPD-3054.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kansas City Chiefs</a></strong> superstar is making a case to be in the conversation. After nine weeks, he and other three players have proved they might challenge for the accolade.</p>



<h2>4. Tua Tagovailoa (Miami Dolphins)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" data-id="3115" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.thesportsdrop.com/webp/news/SPD_20221108_SPD_3092_Tua-vs-Bears-Nov-2022-1024x572.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=572" alt="" class="wp-image-3115" srcset="https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Tua-vs-Bears-Nov-2022-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Tua-vs-Bears-Nov-2022-300x168.jpg 300w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Tua-vs-Bears-Nov-2022-768x429.jpg 768w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Tua-vs-Bears-Nov-2022.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div></figure>
<figcaption class="blocks-gallery-caption">Michael Reaves/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



<p>Perhaps the most debatable of the list, <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/tua-tagovailoa-of-dolphins-discharged-from-hospital-after-head-and-neck-injury-scare-20221001-SPD-2873.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tua Tagovailoa</a></strong> has so far had a remarkable season. With him on the field, the <strong>Dolphins</strong> have been ruthless in offense. On top of that, Tua has the <strong>highest QBR</strong> in the league after nine weeks (79.9).</p>



<p>Having completed 69.9% of his passes for 1,980 yards, 15 touchdowns and just three interceptions, the Alabama product is giving <strong>Miami</strong> reasons for optimism. If he continues to produce like this, he should at least be in consideration.</p>



<h2>3. Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills)</h2>



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" data-id="3116" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.thesportsdrop.com/webp/news/SPD_20221108_SPD_3092_Allen-vs-Ravens-Oct-2022-1024x572.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=572" alt="" class="wp-image-3116" srcset="https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Allen-vs-Ravens-Oct-2022-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Allen-vs-Ravens-Oct-2022-300x168.jpg 300w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Allen-vs-Ravens-Oct-2022-768x429.jpg 768w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Allen-vs-Ravens-Oct-2022.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div></figure>
<figcaption class="blocks-gallery-caption">Rob Carr/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



<p>The obvious candidate even before the season started, <strong>Josh Allen</strong> has been living up to the expectations this year — though he can do even better. Currently third at QBR (74.2), the <strong>Bills</strong> star continues to produce both with the arm and with his legs.</p>



<p>Allen has completed 64.1% of his passes this season, throwing for 2,403 yards with 19 touchdowns and eight interceptions, while he has 392 rushing yards with 4 TDs. Buffalo entered the season with <strong>Super Bowl</strong> aspirations, and its QB has only fueled those in the past nine weeks.</p>



<h2>2. Jalen Hurts (Philadelphia Eagles)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" data-id="3119" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.thesportsdrop.com/webp/news/SPD_20221108_SPD_3092_Hurts-vs-Texans-TNF-2022-1024x572.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=572" alt="" class="wp-image-3119" srcset="https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Hurts-vs-Texans-TNF-2022-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Hurts-vs-Texans-TNF-2022-300x168.jpg 300w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Hurts-vs-Texans-TNF-2022-768x429.jpg 768w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Hurts-vs-Texans-TNF-2022.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div></figure>
<figcaption class="blocks-gallery-caption">Carmen Mandato/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



<p>One of the biggest storylines of the season has been the surprising progress <strong>Jalen  Hurts</strong> has made in 2022. No one seemed to believe in him the way the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/robert-quinn-of-eagles-set-to-accomplish-feat-not-witnessed-since-1930-20221028-SPD-3058.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eagles</a></strong> did, and it’s paying off.</p>



<p>Not only is he leading a team that has yet to lose a game this year, but Hurts has also proven his own talent as a <strong>dual-threat</strong> quarterback. 68.2% of passes completed for 2,042 yards with 12 TDs and just 2 INTs, along with 326 rushing yards and six rushing TDs suggest we might have a potential MVP season here.</p>



<h2>1. Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.thesportsdrop.com/webp/news/SPD_20221108_SPD_3092_Mahomes-vs-Titans-Nov-2022-1024x572.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=572" alt="" class="wp-image-3122" srcset="https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Mahomes-vs-Titans-Nov-2022-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Mahomes-vs-Titans-Nov-2022-300x168.jpg 300w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Mahomes-vs-Titans-Nov-2022-768x429.jpg 768w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Mahomes-vs-Titans-Nov-2022.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>David Eulitt/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



<p>Once again, <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/patrick-mahomes-admission-on-chiefs-shocking-loss-to-bengals-in-2022-nfl-playoffs-2485-20220809-SPD-2485.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mahomes</a> is proving why he’s worth every single penny of the multi-year deal he signed with the Chiefs a few years back. Even without <strong>Tyreek Hill</strong>, he’s finding ways to make his opponents feel scared.</p>



<p>While he is only behind Tua in QBR (75.4), Mahomes <strong>leads the NFL in passing yards (2,605) and passing touchdowns (21)</strong>. Besides, he racked up over 100 rushing yards. His six INTs is something to keep an eye on. If his turnovers don’t increase much, then he might be the leading candidate.</p>


NFL Rumors: Patrick Mahomes and potential MVP candidates of 2022 season - thesportsdrops NEWS

NFL Rumors: Patrick Mahomes and potential MVP candidates of 2022 season


<p>After acquiring <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/kadarius-toney-of-giants-traded-to-chiefs-in-exchange-for-draft-picks-20221027-SPD-3054.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Robert Quinn</a></strong> in a trade with the Chicago Bears, the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-russell-wilson-gets-real-on-broncos-locker-room-mood-after-2-4-start-20221019-SPD-2993.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia Eagles</a></strong> wasted no time getting him into the lineup. The veteran edge rusher is expected to make his debut this Sunday, Week 8, against the Pittsburgh Steelers.</p>



<p>Quinn would be one of the few players without a bye week if he plays on Sunday. It’s worth noting that the Bears didn’t have their bye week before trading for Quinn, while the Eagles are fresh off theirs.</p>



<p>With seven games under his belt for the Bears and another 11 on the schedule for the Eagles, Quinn is on pace to play 18 times in a 17-game season. A pair of NFL players, Tony Costos and Cookie Tackwell of the Frankford Yellow Jackets and Minneapolis Red Jackets, respectively, participated in all 18 games that season in 1930.</p>



<h2>Eagles’ Robert Quinn to play 18 games in 17-game schedule</h2>



<p>Before 1933, when the NFL established a set schedule, clubs’ records in non-league contests were included in their overall standings. Since Philadelphia’s Frankford is prohibited by the state’s “Blue Laws” from playing home games on Sundays, the team has to play its non-league or independent games on Saturdays and then travel for Sunday’s game.</p>



<p>If Quinn plays all 18, he would make history as the only player to do so since the league’s 1933 expansion to include divisions and a playoff for the title. Emmanuel Sanders was the final player to appear in all 16 games of the regular season in 2019.</p>


Robert Quinn of Eagles set to accomplish feat not witnessed since 1930 - thesportsdrops NEWS

Robert Quinn of Eagles set to accomplish feat not witnessed since 1930


<p>After a single season with the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-russell-wilson-gets-real-on-broncos-locker-room-mood-after-2-4-start-20221019-SPD-2993.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York Giants</a></strong>, in which he played in only 12 games, <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/odell-beckham-jr-s-return-to-rams-looks-unlikely-after-recieving-lowest-offer-20221012-SPD-2960.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kadarius Toney</a></strong> is leaving the team. According to <em>theScore</em> and <em>CBS Sports NFL </em>source Jonathan Jones, the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/patriots-news-bill-belichick-knows-who-to-thank-for-tying-george-halas-on-career-wins-20221018-SPD-2985.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kansas City Chiefs</a></strong> have acquired former Florida wide receiver and 20th overall pick in the 2021 draft, Corey Coleman.</p>



<p>The 23-year-old had trouble staying on the field during his brief time with the Giants, but he will be catching passes from Patrick Mahomes in Kansas City after being traded there in exchange for a 2023 third-round draft choice and a 2023 sixth-round draft pick.</p>



<p>There are now just five days before the November 1 trade deadline, and this deal comes a day after the Giants’ NFC East rival Eagles acquired pass rusher, Robert Quinn, from the Bears. Toney’s hamstring issue has kept him out of action, thus the Chiefs’ starting quarterback’s availability for Week 9 is in doubt. For the time being, the Kansas City Chiefs do not have a game scheduled.</p>



<h2>Kadarius Toney to continue career in Kansas</h2>



<p>Toney, a versatile offensive threat out of college, showed off his big-play talent as a rookie, exploding for 10 receptions and 189 yards in a game against the Cowboys before being tossed for throwing a punch. However, an oblique injury and numerous trips on the COVID reserve prevented him from playing more than 12 games that year. </p>



<p>Despite the Giants’ severe lack of wide receiver depth and new head coach Brian Daboll’s preference for a pass-oriented offense, he was only involved in four plays through two games before becoming shelved with a hamstring injury.</p>


Kadarius Toney of Giants traded to Chiefs in exchange for draft picks

Kadarius Toney of Giants traded to Chiefs in exchange for draft picks - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>Back in the offseason, the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-russell-wilson-reacts-to-broncos-failed-field-goal-attempt-vs-seahawks-2746-20220914-SPD-2746.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Russell Wilson</a></strong> trade to the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/von-miller-will-root-for-russell-wilson-broncos-while-chasing-super-bowl-ring-with-bills-2163-20220712-SPD-2163.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Broncos</a></strong> seemed like a match made in heaven. However, only six weeks later many are wondering whether it was a mistake.</p>



<p>Though the veteran quarterback’s talent is undeniable, he has struggled to perform as expected since moving to the <strong>Mile High City</strong>. With their loss to the <strong>Chargers</strong> on Monday, the Broncos dropped to 2-4.</p>



<p>While the offense has so far failed to produce, the defense did their job well, which is why many wonder if there exists <strong>some sort of friction</strong> between the units. According to Wilson, <strong>things are just fine</strong> inside the locker room.</p>



<h2>Russell Wilson says Broncos are united</h2>



<p><em><strong>“We don’t have division in our locker room,”</strong></em> Wilson said, via Kevin Patra of Around the NFL. <em>“<strong>You guys saw how hard we played for each other</strong>. It didn’t go our way, but everyone is fighting their butts off every day. The line, the receivers, the running backs, the defense, the defensive line, the linebackers and our safeties and corners, everybody was playing for each other and we felt like we could have won the game.</em></p>



<p><em>“We had that fluke play at the end, but right before that play, we still felt like we could have won the game. It didn’t work out, but <strong>everyone is still together, and we still believe in everything we can do</strong>. We must find ways to continue making plays and score touchdowns and do that. The end of the first quarter and the second quarter to get all the way down there. That’s us. We have to bring that every time, and it can’t be anything less.”</em></p>


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