Player Notes

The Carolina Panthers will open the 2023 regular-season at 1 p.m. Sunday against the Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. But before those NFC South foes can clash to begin the season, our experts wanted to weigh in on what is to come during the first season of the Frank Reich era.Below are The Observer’s predictions for the 2023 Panthers season, from beat writers Mike Kaye and Alex Zietlow ...

Only days before the Titans open the season against New Orleans, Titans coach Mike Vrabel said Monday he hadn’t decided on which young quarterback — Malik Willis or Will Levis — will serve as Ryan Tannehill’s backup.What do we take from that?First, it’s hard to imagine a decision hasn’t actually been reached. What exactly will Willis or Levis show in the next few days of practice that’s different than ...

In drafting Josh Whyle in the fifth round in April, the Titans hoped they’d found a tight end who could boost the position group in a couple of ways.The former University of Cincinnati standout had shown he was a pass-receiving threat in college, making 86 catches over his final three seasons.Standing 6-foot-7 and weighing 248 pounds, Whyle was also big enough to offer at least some help in the running ...

The Tennessee Titans play the New Orleans Saints in Week 1 of the 2023 NFL season.Our game-by-game predictions for the Titans feature early key games vs. the Bengals, Browns and Ravens.Is The Tennessean picking the Titans to reach the playoffs in its 2023 NFL season predictions? It will likely come down to a couple AFC South showdowns at the end of the regular season.There's no such thing as an easy ...

The Steelers open their season against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday at Acrisure Stadium. Here are five things to know about the NFC West foe ahead of Week 1.Nick Bosa is still holding out — As of Tuesday morning, the prolific pass rusher was still nowhere to be seen at Niners facilities as he seeks a long-term extension that would make him one of the highest-paid defensive players in football. ...

Heading into Sunday’s home game against the 49ers at Acrisure Stadium, head coach Mike Tomlin has a healthy roster of players at his disposal.The only significant injury of the preseason was to rookie cornerback Cory Trice, who was injured early in training camp and will spend the year on injured reserve. There were other injuries over the past six weeks, but all appear to be shorter term.“We had a ...

There is so much to like about the Steelers’ offseason, the moves they made and the progress of players like Kenny Pickett. There are so many positive developments and so many reasons for those who follow the Steelers to feel optimistic about this season.I get it, and I also think I’m looking at a playoff team, or at least a team that will make a serious run toward the postseason. I also don’t think ...

There is so much to like about the Steelers’ offseason, the moves they made and the progress of players like Kenny Pickett. There are so many positive developments and so many reasons for those who follow the Steelers to feel optimistic about this season.I get it, and I also think I’m looking at a playoff team, or at least a team that will make a serious run toward the postseason. I also don’t think ...

It was 42 days ago when Mike Tomlin arrived at Saint Vincent College and proclaimed he liked the feel in the air about the 2023 Steelers.Now, after an unbeaten preseason and near-flawless performances by the first-team offense and defense, there is another feeling in the air. This one is laced with unbridled optimism, and it’s so palpable Tomlin’s biggest chore as he begins his 17th season might be ...

Tuesday’s “First Call” has more news about some star San Francisco players who may be out for Sunday’s game against the Steelers.Also, JuJu Smith-Schuster responds to reports about his knee problems, an ex-Steeler is in some hot water legally, and a Duquesne football player receives an NEC honor.Kittle questionNick Bosa isn’t the only star player for the San Francisco 49ers whose status is in doubt ...