Author: Mike Jones, USA TODAY

Lamar Jackson certainly has displayed signs of growth, but Ravens need more from their defense. Plus the latest on CBA talks and Redskins’ QB dilemma.

Freddie Kitchens won’t acknowledge it, but his Browns team entered Sunday’s contest against the Ravens at something of a crossroads.

After lackluster performances in their first three games, the Browns finally showed some of the promise that made them a preseason darling.

The Rams’ 20-13 win against the Browns revealed a team that is more mature and ready for adversity, while Cleveland’s effort shows it’s getting close.

The Rams held firm until the very end to move to 3-0 while dealing Baker Mayfield and the Browns another serious setback.

Merely releasing Antonio Brown shouldn’t mark the end of scrutiny for the Patriots or the wide receiver, USA TODAY Sports’ Mike Jones writes.

Eli Manning’s run with the Giants might be over after the long-time starter lost his job to rookie Daniel Jones. But New York never had a clear plan.

After disappointing, or in some cases embarrassing, NFL season openers, these players and coaches need a bounce-back performance in the worst way.

None of us could blow off assignments from our supervisor, cuss another boss out and then tell them we’re not coming to work and upgrade our situation