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Most of the Broncos’ picks in the era have one thing in common By Nicki Jhabvala Denver Post Feb. 20, 2018

Von Miller has said that he knew he would be a Denver Bronco when he met with Broncos John Elway for 15 minutes at the 2011 NFL scouting combine. Miller’s performance that week, still mind-boggling seven years later, said plenty. But it was in that meeting that Miller said he knew where he was headed.

He was right.

In 2014, when the Broncos were just weeks removed from their XLVIII loss, more clues were dropped about the Broncos’ draft intentions when Elway spoke of the value of “athleticism” and “numbers” in evaluating prospects at the combine. That year he drafted cornerback in the first round, one of the fastest players at the combine and someone who would eventually become a key piece of Denver’s remade defense.

And in 2016, Elway continued to reveal more hints at the combine when he spoke of ‘s impending decision to retire and Brock Osweiler‘s then uncertain future with the team. Elway would lose both a month later, and, after a failed attempt to acquire Colin Kaepernick, out-bid the Cowboys to nab Paxton Lynch in the first round.

While the NFL scouting combine has morphed into an annual spectacle for the league, with around-the- clock coverage and increased fanfare, it has been a constant for the Broncos’ draft selections. Of the 54 players drafted by the Broncos since Elway joined the front office in 2011, 47 have been NFL combine invites.

“I think with 15 minutes there are certain things that you can do. You can’t hide,” Elway said at the combine in last year. “You put a play up on the board and ask them to explain the play or put some tape up there and have them walk you through a play. You can generally find out how much they know about football. There is no question that they are prepared for everything by the way.”

Linebacker Corey Nelson (2014); nose tackle , , cornerback and safety Josh Furman (all in 2015); safety (2016); and quarterback Chad Kelly (2017) are the only picks by Elway who were denied combine invites. Ironic considering Elway skipped the combine as a player back in 1983.

When the Broncos return to the combine this year (Feb. 27-March 5), they’ll do so armed with a different perspective. They have more information, thanks to a week in Mobile, Ala., in late January.

The Broncos’ staff coached more than 50 draft prospects on the Senior Bowl’s North Team, including quarterbacks and . Unlike in years past, where their close-up with players entailed brief combine interviews and pre-draft visits, the Broncos received hours of access to many players expected to participate in Indianapolis.

“They get to know the players. I think that is the biggest part of it. You get to spend time and spend a week with them. Usually you go to the combine and you get 15 minutes with them. Pre-draft, we get 30 visits from young players,” Elway said in Mobile. “This way we get to see 50-55 of them and be around them and coach them a little bit. It’s a big plus to spend a week with them.”

With so much access in Alabama, the Broncos not only head to the combine knowing more than most teams about some of the prospects, but they can also spread out their allotted 60 interviews among players they know less about. And those 15 minutes, while brief, can reveal much about players’ readiness for the next level.

The Broncos have numerous roster holes to fill after a 5-11 finish. And if history is a guide, they’ll see most players of their future in Indianapolis.

Who to Watch Five prospects to keep an eye on in Indianapolis at the 2018 NFL scouting combine:

Josh Rosen, QB, UCLA The Broncos received an up-close look at quarterbacks Josh Allen and Baker Mayfield at the Senior Bowl. The combine will provide a good look at , the standout from UCLA who is regarded by many analysts to be the most starter-ready quarterback in the draft.

Sam Darnold, QB, Southern California Of the four QBs projected to go in the first round, most eyes may be on Darnold at the combine. He has the size (6-foot-4, 220 pounds) and arm strength, and has even drawn comparisons to Andrew Luck. But will his throwing motion and turnovers (13 turnovers and nine in 2017) turn away NFL teams?

Quenton Nelson, G, Notre Dame Though many analysts have the Broncos pegged to draft a quarterback in the first round, Denver’s first move could surprise depending on who they land in free agency. If they get a high-priced veteran QB, they’ll need to improve their offense line protect him. Nelson, a 6-5, 329-pound left guard, could be their answer.

Minkah Fitzpatrick, DB, Alabama With possibly on the outs in Denver, the Broncos will need depth in their secondary. Fitzpatrick could be their answer. With a versatility similar to Bradley Roby — he can play slot, outside, nickel linebacker and even safety — Fitzpatrick could be a key piece of the Broncos’ remade defense for the near and long-term future. And remember: John Elway loves his defense.

Kalen Ballage, RB, Arizona State The Colorado native impressed at the Senior Bowl, where he bulldozed defenders and took advantage of his 6-2, 227-pound frame. With an impressive showing at the combine, Ballage may skyrocket on draft boards.

Redskins safety D.J. Swearinger has an idea of where Kirk Cousins will land in free agency By Nicki Jhabvala Denver Post Feb. 20, 2018

Three days after word got out of ’s impending trade to Washington, Kirk Cousins made the rounds at radio row during Super Bowl LII week to talk of his uncertain — but undoubtedly lucrative — future.

In an interview with Sirius XM NFL, Cousins said that he expects to become a free agent and that “at the end of the day, I want to win.”

“There are a ton of variables that decide, ‘Do we think we can win?’” he added. “But that will ultimately be what makes the decision.”

Cousins’ current teammate, Redskins safety D.J. Swearinger, believes that decision will end with Denver.

“With the situation they have out there on defense, they’re missing their quarterback,” Swearinger said while a guest on NFL Network on Monday. “Kirk is a great quarterback. I wish we could have had different things on that, but the business is the business. I think Kirk will be getting a healthy payday and I think Denver is the team that can do that.”

Rarely does a quarterback of Cousins’ caliber hit free agency, and though it’s been floated that Washington could still use a franchise tag on Cousins and then trade him, doing so would open the Redskins up to an array of issues with the league, the NFL Players’ Association and Cousins.

All signs point to the 29-year-old hitting the open market and landing a record contract by a quarterback-needy team. The Broncos are on the short list of those teams, and they’re expected to pursue Cousins heavily.

San Francisco’s Jimmy Garoppolo reset the quarterback market when he signed a contract worth $27.5 million a year, but Cousins was already projected to draw close to $30 million per year and possibly $100 million in guarantees in his next contract.

Though the Broncos are coming off two playoff-less seasons with mediocre quarterback play, they still have a situation to entice with outside linebacker guiding the defense, a pair of elite receivers in Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders, and a general manager that already made the biggest free-agent splash in team history six years ago.

In 2012, John Elway lured Peyton Manning to Denver on a $96 million contract that ultimately produced a pair of Super Bowl appearances and the franchise’s third Lombardi Trophy. This year many believe Elway will return to the free-agent market to try to right the ship.

Managing changes on coaching staff a big part of Broncos' offseason plan By Jeff Legwold ESPN.com Feb. 20, 2018

Denver Broncos coach Vance Joseph has plenty of things on his to-do list in the months to come, that’s just part of the job.

Among the items Joseph has to wrestle with is one of the quirkier situations in the league, in that he retained his job but will oversee a staff that will have eight new assistants. That total will include a new strength and conditioning coach in Loren Landow, who has long worked with a variety of high-profile athletes in the Denver area, including Olympic swimmer Missy Franklin, Peyton Manning, Christian McCaffrey and a long list of current and former Broncos. Landow is expected to be formally announced in his new job when he completes his pre-draft work with a group of this year's prospects.

When Luke Richesson, who had been the Broncos' strength and conditioning coach since 2012, took the same position with the Texans earlier this month, it marked the eighth change on Joseph's staff since offensive coordinator Mike McCoy was fired in November.

Joseph also fired six assistant coaches at ’s end. With Landow’s agreement, just one spot on the staff remains open -- an assistant to work with the pass-rushers at defensive end and linebacker.

Joseph said at the Senior Bowl last month he expected “to take my time with that one.’’ But it’s all an inordinate amount of change on a coaching staff without a change at the top and it will be part of Joseph’s challenge as the Broncos work through the pre-draft process and into the offseason program.

Joseph, on multiple occasions, has said his handling of his own coaching staff was one of the most significant issues he faced in his first year on the job as the Broncos struggled in a 5-11 season. That was led by a long list of difficulties on offense as the Broncos started three different quarterbacks and Joseph fired McCoy with six games remaining in the season.

Shortly after the season had ended, Joseph explained it this way: “As a first-time head coach, I can say this: Early on in the season, I didn’t do a good job of pushing our coaches to make the proper changes that I thought could have helped us. I allowed guys to coach -- that was my goal -- but I wasn’t very good at coaching the coaches. I’ll get better at that. That was one of my shortcomings.’’

It was a theme Joseph repeated at the Senior Bowl practices in Mobile, Alabama, as Landow's addition means Joseph has made major changes on offensive, defensive and special-teams staffs as well as the strength and conditioning staff.

McCoy had been Joseph’s first hire and was in the first year of a three-year contract. Following the season, two of the Broncos’ longest tenured assistant coaches -- Eric Studesville and Tyke Tolbert -- were among the six assistants who were let go. Studesville had worked for Josh McDaniels, John Fox, Gary Kubiak and Joseph in his time with the team.

It’s all part of the task that awaits Joseph when the players return to work later in the offseason. Some players were vocal about their disappointment at some of the assistant coaches’ departures and the Broncos' woes on offense essentially took three quarterbacks -- as well as the season -- down with them.

Joseph has used the word “culture’’ to describe what he’s looking for, while some of the Broncos' more experienced players have privately said they simply want to do what the team does best on both sides of the ball.

Even the team’s accomplished defense did not escape struggles last season. Just four teams surrendered more passes than the Broncos’ 29, with 18 of those coming during the team’s eight-game losing streak. Joseph and first-year defensive coordinator Joe Woods had tweaked some of the coverages the team was using. And while the Broncos' defense was consistently put in difficult situations because of the team’s turnover troubles on offense and special teams, there were times when those changes in the defense showed up in mistakes made in the red zone.

Both Joseph and president of football operations/general manager John Elway have repeatedly spoken of the need to better fit the team’s personnel into what is in the game plans each week, and to do that they will have to manage the changes they have made.

Broncos don't have a reason to use the tag this time around By Jeff Legwold ESPN.com Feb. 20, 2018

Tuesday is the first day NFL teams can use what some in the league consider the hammer in their toolbox for negotiations with high-profile free agents.

And few, if any, have used the franchise tag as often as the have since John Elway became the team’s top football decision-maker in 2011. But with none of the marquee players up for free agency -- they do have some starters like tight end Virgil Green and linebacker Todd Davis set for the open market -- the Broncos will almost certainly sit out the franchise player gymnastics this time around.

That, as much, as anything else, is another indication of how far the Broncos have tumbled out of the playoff conversation. Because when they were living the playoff life on Elway's watch, the franchise tag was usually part of their offseason work.

The franchise player tender is a one-year deal for an unrestricted free agent that pays the player an average of the top contracts at his position while either allowing a team to match any offers the player gets or prevents the player from negotiating with another team, depending on which designation the team chooses.

In short, the one-year deal is guaranteed the moment the player signs it, but most players would prefer a long-term deal, and they choose not to sign the franchise player tender. It can lead to holdouts and plenty of hard feelings but can also sometimes lead to a long-term deal.

The Broncos, in Elway’s tenure, have certainly been willing to use it. And they have routinely used it on the way to long-term deals. The Broncos designated kicker Matt Prater in 2012, tackle Ryan Clady in 2013, Demaryius Thomas in 2015 and linebacker Von Miller in 2016. In all four of those cases, the Broncos worked out a multiyear deal with the players by July of that same year.

In each case, the Broncos eventually made the player among the highest-paid at their position, including Miller’s six-year, $114.5 million deal which was the largest contract in franchise history and the most leaguewide for a non-quarterback.

The Broncos were coming off an AFC West title in each of those years and trying to stay at the front of the line. In Miller’s case, he was coming off a Super Bowl MVP performance in Super Bowl 50.

In the past, Elway has spoken about not rushing negotiations because the player wants the long-term deal.

“I think when we’ve used it, we were working toward something,’’ Elway has said. “It can be a long process when you’re in the middle of it, but I think you keep working with your plan.’’

“When you’re in the middle of it, it feels like you’re just waiting and waiting,’’ Miller said recently. “I was happy when it was over.’’

Miller’s negotiations, in particular, got a little rocky down the stretch. He skipped the team’s offseason workouts and activities but did participate in the visit to the White House in June, 2015.

However, the two sides were frustrated with the pace of negotiations, and Miller had even cropped Elway out of a photo taken during the visit before posting it on social media. He also posted, at one point, there was “no chance’’ he would play the 2016 season under the franchise player tender.

But a nine-figure deal and two seasons later, Miller has been Elway’s biggest booster as the Broncos try to emerge from their 5-11 finish in 2017. “I trust John Elway to do what we need to do to get back up at the top,’’ Miller has said previously. He's also made it a point to talk to the team’s younger players about handling issues away from the field.

Miller is also the Broncos' franchise player at the moment so they're not compelled to tag another one this offseason.

NFL intrigue goes beyond the quarterbacks By Arnie Stapleton Feb. 20, 2018

The NFL's offseason features plenty of intrigue beyond where Kirk Cousins and dozens of other quarterbacks will land.

As the enjoy the city's first NFL title since 1960 and the smart over their failure to win a sixth ring, 30 other teams are plotting to unseat the conference kings.

That appears to be a tougher task in the AFC than in the NFC, where the Vikings, Saints and Rams all are on the rise and the Pack promises to get back with under center again.

DeShaun Watson's comeback from a torn ACL could put the Texans in the mix along with the resurgent Jaguars to wrest the Trophy from the grasp of , Bill Belichick and Josh McDaniels, whose reneging on the Colts coaching job reignited the animosity between Indy and New England.

At league headquarters, Roger Goodell wants to see the mystery of the NFL's catch rule solved.

Five cities are building their case to host the league's annual draft in 2019 or 2020. This year's extravaganza will be held April 26-28 in Jerry's backyard at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

On Tuesday, teams can designate franchise or transition players and in a week they'll all be at the NFL combine in Indianapolis to take a gander at this year's top college prospects.

Free agency starts March 14 with the new league year and that's when the QB dominoes will start to fall.

Teams that hired a new coach this year — the Cardinals, Bears, Lions, Colts, Giants, Raiders and Titans — get to begin offseason workouts April 2. Everyone else starts two weeks later.

While baseballs soar and basketballs bounce over the next few months, some story lines that will provide a football fix:

KIRK COUSINS' NEXT DESTINATION : With Washington acquiring Alex Smith from the , Cousins will say goodbye to the Redskins and hello to the really big bucks. The Broncos, Jets and Cardinals could jockey to see who will pay Cousins $30 million annually.

JOHN ELWAY'S NEXT COMEBACK : The Broncos boss wants to quit fretting over the position he knows the most about. Landing Cousins or one of the top college QBs will allow him to move on from Paxton Lynch, Brock Osweiler and Trevor Siemian, who all started during Denver's 5-11 face-plant.

WHICH QB WILL GO NO. 1 ? Teams that miss out on one of the prized free agents can look to the draft, which features Baker Mayfield, Josh Allen, and Josh Rosen, who are all expected to be selected in the top 10 picks. But in which order? and Mason Rudolph could join them as first-rounders.

WILL ANDREW LUCK PLAY? Some believe the impetus for McDaniels backing out of the Colts job was the uncertainty surrounding QB Andrew Luck, who missed all of last season following shoulder surgery. Luck hopes to resume his career in 2018, but he still hasn't thrown a football since October

DID INDY LUCK OUT? McDaniels' brush-off led the Colts to hiring ex-Eagles OC , who got glowing endorsements from former team president Bill Polian, ex-coach and former QB Peyton Manning. Reich figured to be atop the list of hot head coaching candidates next winter, so this was a jump-start.

HOW WILL RAIDERS MESH? Last summer, Oakland QB signed a five-year, $125 million contract. This winter, signed a 10-year, $100 million deal to return to the sideline from the broadcast booth. Now, it's time for Gruden and Carr to make it work together.

WILL PATS DEFY TIME? Brady and Belichick failed to win a sixth ring when the Patriots lost the Super Bowl to the Eagles. But McDaniels couldn't leave the soon-to-be 41-year-old QB coming off an MVP season. Opponents continue to wonder when Brady will hit that wall and quit being so frustratingly good.

WHO WILL LEAD MINNESOTA? The Vikings are in an odd situation at quarterback. They have an abundance in , who was a suburb fill-in with and hurt. They're both getting healthy but none of the three are under contract for next season.

WHAT'S THE PANTHERS' FUTURE? While former U.S. attorney Mary Jo White looks into claims of sexual and racial misconduct in the workplace against Panthers owner Jerry Richardson, potential buyers are exploring purchasing the team. Goodell says he wants the team to remain in Charlotte under the new owners.

WHO WILL WOW NFL ?: Denver, Kansas City, Las Vegas, Nashville and Cleveland-Canton are hoping to land the NFL draft in either 2019 or 2020. Representatives for each site will offer presentations before the final selections are made in May at the NFL spring meetings in .

If Broncos fans want a top QB, don't complain about the price tag By Woody Paige KMGH Feb. 20, 2018

The Leonardo da Vinci painting “Salvator Mundi” sold at auction last November to an anonymous bidder for a record $450 million.

Nobody I know said: “I can’t believe the guy paid that much for a da Vinci. It’s not worth anywhere near $450 mil.”

Yet, I hear from people every day: “I can’t believe the Broncos would give Kirk Cousins $30 million a year. He’s not worth it.”

Even though it’s not their money.

Value of a painting or a quarterback is in the eyes of the buyer.

John Elway understands.

At three different junctures during his 16-season career with the Broncos, Elway became the highest- paid player in the NFL.

And I’m certain, because I heard it then, that people said in 1983, Elway’s rookie year: “I can’t believe the Broncos are giving Elway $1 million per year.”

In 1987 signed Elway to a six-year, $12.7 million contract, again putting the quarterback No. 1 among NFL players. “John has earned the right to be the top-paid player,” the franchise owner said.

Others said: “He’s not worth it. Elway hasn’t won a Super Bowl.”

Elway received a four-year deal for $20 million in 1993 and surpassed (five years, $22 mil).

“Not worth it,” the unwashed masses said. “He’s still not won a Super Bowl.” (Although he had gotten the Broncos three.)

Ironically, for the 1997-98 seasons, Elway took a significant pay slice (to just over $2.1 million per) in the short run (with payments stretched out) so the Broncos could sign free agents (defensive ends Alfred Williams and Neil Smith). Years later the Broncos were fined almost a million dollars, and lost a third- round draft choice, because of the deferred payment to Elway and .

Nobody said back then: “Oh, John is worth more than $10 million a year.”

And the majority of Broncos’ backers were giddy when Elway signed Peyton Manning in 2012 to a five- year, $96 million contract (although only the first two years were guaranteed).

Both Elway and Manning were bargains at the price and obviously worth the money the Broncos spent because of seven Super Bowls (three victories).

Here were the seven highest multi-year contracts for NFL quarterbacks (in millions) until a couple of weeks ago:

Matthew Stafford, Lions ($135) Derek Carr, Raiders ($125) Andrew Luck, Colts: ($122.97) Aaron Rodgers, Packers ($110) , Panthers ($103.8) Matt Ryan, Falcons: ($103.75) , Bengals: ($96) Then, Alex Smith was involved in a trade (which can’t be officially final until next month) from Kansas City to Washington and agreed to a $94 million contract.

The price of poke since has gone up. Jimmy Garoppolo, who could have become a free agent, re-signed with the 49ers for $137.5 million.

You could ask San Francisco coach Kyle Shanahan if the team overpaid Garoppolo, who has started only seven games in his NFL career. In fact, you could have. Shanahan was in Denver over the weekend celebrating the anniversary of his father Mike’s restaurant. He’s beyond ecstatic.

And Kirk Cousins soon will become the highest-paid QB in the history of the game. But what has he accomplished? He shares a common bond with eight of the top nine. They haven’t won a Super Bowl. Newton and Ryan each have played in one, and you know the outcome. Aaron Rogers won one.

Cousins will get $150-$175 million from some team, and at least eight (Broncos, Jets, Browns, Cardinals, Jaguars, Vikings, Dolphins and Giants) are considering making an offer.

Value is in the eyes of the beholder.

Cousins is in the right place at the right time with the right arm.

The Jets are reportedly ready to give Cousins everything he wants – and guaranteed. The Vikings have the most-ready Super Bowl team.

However, ’s Peter King, the premier pro football writer in the country, wrote Monday that he thinks Cousins will end up in Denver.

“He’s not worth the money, and the Broncos don’t have the money’’ is the response. Well, it would be Broncos’ money (not yours or mine), and they can come up with it.

Assuming the 2018 salary cap is $178 million, the Broncos have approximately $26 million (below average in the league).

If the Broncos trade or release Aqib Talib, Derek Wolfe, C.J. Anderson, Menelik Watson and Trevor Siemian, they will add almost $29 million (after dead cap losses) and have a total of $55 million to spend on Cousins and three or four other major unrestricted free agents on the offensive line, at wide receiver and on defense.

If the Broncos give Cousins a guaranteed signing bonus of $50 million (spread over five years), his annual salary cap hit wouldn’t be any more extravagant than their other expensive quarterbacks during an eight-year contract.

And “Salvato Mundi” probably will be sold for $1 billion in 2026.

Broncos' mock draft roundup: Feb. 19, 2018 By Ben Swanson DenverBroncos.com Feb. 20, 2018

Todd McShay, ESPN: QB Baker Mayfield, Oklahoma John Elway was at the Senior Bowl and scouted both Mayfield and Josh Allen. This will be a really interesting pick if both are on the board. Mayfield had an impressive week in Mobile and checked the biggest remaining box with his measurements (6-foot, 216 pounds, 9½-inch hand span). He's rising. [Feb. 6, 2018]

Charley Casserly, NFL.com: DE Marcus Davenport, Texas-San Antonio Davenport is an excellent pass rusher; best as a 3-4 OLB. [Feb. 13, 2018]

Chad Reuter, NFL.com: DB , Alabama For now, I'll say Kirk Cousins ends up with Denver, opening a spot for the Broncos to add Fitzpatrick to their defense. [Feb. 6, 2018]

Dan Kadar, SB Nation: G , Notre Dame An offensive tackle would be the preference, but there just isn’t one worth this high of a choice. Nelson is considered by some as the draft’s top player. [Feb. 12, 2018]

Will Brinson, CBS Sports: QB Baker Mayfield, Oklahoma The Broncos spent too much time with Mayfield this offseason for there not to be fire with the smoke. At the very least they definitely need a quarterback since Paxton Lynch does not appear to be the answer and John Elway needs to secure the future at the position. With Kirk Cousins in play here, we'll give the Broncos Mayfield for now. [Feb. 15, 2018]

Pete Prisco, CBS Sports: QB Sam Darnold, USC They have to find a passer if they don't get one in free agency. Darnold has some issues – hand size and motion – but he understands the passing game and can make all the throws. [Feb. 15, 2018]

Chris Trapasso, CBS Sports: G Will Hernandez, UTEP (via mock trade with Arizona) Hernandez reunites with his collegiate head coach, Sean Kugler, who was recently hired as Denver's offensive line coach. This is an ideal pairing. Denver nets a second and the last of three third-round picks the Cardinals have in this draft and send a seventh-rounder -- along with No. 5 overall -- in the trade back. [Feb. 15, 2018]

R.J. White, CBS Sports: DB Minkah Fitzpatrick, Alabama The Broncos seem to be doing their due diligence on Baker Mayfield at the Senior Bowl, but if Rosen falls into their laps I think he has to be the pick, provided the quarterback situation isn't resolved by draft day. Rosen has pro-style experience at UCLA and figures to be the type of high-ceiling talent John Elway is looking for at the position after two years of juggling Trevor Siemian and Paxton Lynch. [Feb. 16, 2018]

America turns its lonely eyes to Peyton Manning, who must return to NFL as TV color commentator By David Ramsey Colorado Springs Gazette Feb. 20, 2018

Open the bank vault, please. We need Peyton Manning in a TV booth for the 2018 season.

Manning can use humor and football’s most beautiful mind to brighten our Thursday or Monday nights and slow, and maybe even halt, the NFL’s steady loss of TV viewers.

ESPN is chasing Manning to serve as color man for , and Fox is on the same chase for .

I’m hoping, along with a millions of my Fellow Americans, that one of the networks persuades Manning to step into a broadcast booth. It’s an ultra-sweet gig. Jon Gruden, merely OK as Monday Night Football’s color man, earned $6.5 million a season before returning to coach the Raiders.

Manning towers as the dream candidate. He would bring the laughs of a Tony Kornheiser, the probing insight of a and the work ethic of, well, a Manning to the booth.

We, as TV viewers, need him. And the NFL, with sagging ratings and draining image issues, requires him.

According to expert number cruncher Austin Karp of Sports Business Daily, the number of viewers for NBC’s Sunday Night Football, ESPN’s Monday Night Football and Thursday Night Football package declined this season. NBC averaged 18.2 viewers, lowest since 2008. Monday Night Football’s ratings were the lowest ever. Ad Age’s Anthony Crup estimates overall NFL viewership fell 9 percent.

Why the plunge?

Millions of Americans have pulled the plug on cable, which helps their bottom line but limits easy access to the NFL. The Cowboys, the NFL’s No. 1 TV draw, were lousy in 2017. The Giants, another big draw, were awful. Aaron Rodgers was injured. Americans have a growing awareness of our savage game’s toll on brains.

And, yes, kneeling by protesting players during our National Anthem chased viewers, too.

Manning’s return will not end the NFL’s woes, but his return will ease many of them. Few American sports superstars are truly beloved. Manning is one of the few.

Years ago, I was sitting in a café a few dozen yards from Pacific Beach the morning of a San Diego State- Air Force football game. A group from Wisconsin at the next table noticed the exotic preparation of my breakfast.

We started talking. I asked why they were visiting San Diego. The water, they said. The sunshine. The zoo.

But mostly they made the trip to watch Manning, then with the Colts, do battle against the Chargers, who should have forever remained in San Diego.

The visitors were not Colts fans. They were devout Manning followers, traveling to two or three games each season to see him play. The friends teased one of the women at their table.

“She’s in love with Peyton,” one said.

The woman blushed, and her eyes revealed the truth.

She did love Peyton.

She’s not alone. Manning, through natural charisma and an expert, calculated campaign, has overwhelmed America with his accurate right arm, old-school southern manners and refusal to surrender after NFL marauders all but destroyed his neck. We admire his taste in sport coats and his ability to thread a 30-yard pass past the hands of three defenders.

Not much in life is a sure thing. Manning working as a color commentator is a sure thing.

If Manning offers his expertise on a football game, hundreds of thousands – and maybe a few million – casual fans will click on their TVs.

He’s been hesitant to make the jump from field to TV booth. If Manning said yes to TV, he would bury himself in every detail, preparing with the same ruthless diligence he embraced as a player. He faces a conflict, one faced by every parent. Manning wants to spend weekends with his twins, who turn 7 in March.

Fox and ESPN will turn to cash, and a lot of it, to tempt him. A source told the Post ESPN planned to “back up” a truck filled with money to lure Manning.

An offer of, say, $12 million per season could persuade Manning to become football’s premier color commentator. Remember, this is a task that never will require him to endure the fast-moving wrath of a blitzing linebacker.

A look at 10 lower-level free agents who could end up being great value signings By CBSSports.com Feb. 20, 2018

In a few weeks, NFL teams will be spending money at a dizzying rate, issuing contract after contract, many of which they will likely end up strongly reconsidering less than a year later. That is the nature of free agency in this sport, and that's not going to change.

And this year's class is particularly thin in terms of star power and difference-makers, especially once the franchise and transition tags are applied. Yes, it is an anomaly in terms of the number of starting quarterbacks available, but aside from that it may go down as the least sexy free-agency period in quite some time. But that's not to say it is bereft of talent, and there will surely be a handful of players who receive a modicum of hype but who quickly become great values for their new teams.

The best utilization of free agency is often in that second tier of players – those not setting the market at their position but falling in line a level or two below them in total compensation. They aren't all household names, but they can raise the overall level of play on their unit and help make others better and, in many cases, bring leadership and character to a new locker room. Some of these guys have already bounced around quite a bit and can make a transition to a new squad in a seamless manner – their reputations preceding them – while others will be changing teams for the first time, but have youth and upside on their side.

Here are 10 players, in no particular order, who I believe can make a difference for their next club in free agency, and do so without setting any spending records:

Tom Savage HOU • QB • 3 Savage has flashed enough to show he can play in this league and I still anticipate him getting an opportunity to win a starting job again at some point down the road. He fell victim to Bill O'Brien's quick hook in Houston this season and then had his season ended by a nasty concussion, but he showed he could run that offense and make some plays. Has a plenty big arm and if I am Baltimore, or Arizona, among others, I want to bring him in as a young backup who could stabilize things as a starter should my guy get hurt. If I can get him on a multi-year deal, all the better.

Austin Seferian-Jenkins NYJ • TE • 88 Seferian-Jenkins has the size, frame and potential that should make teams drool and, with his sobriety now paramount, he gave the Jets plenty to think about last season as he emerged as a play-making tight end. He still has the ability to get unlocked more downfield and New York will continue to try to sign him before free agency. For good reason. You can have Jimmy Graham. Give me this younger, healthier, 6- foot-5 target at half the cost of what Graham has been making. I'll gamble on the potential.

Ryan Jensen BAL • C • 66 The Ravens offensive line looked like it might sink their season, especially after All-Pro guard Marshal Yanda was lost for the season. Instead, it became a position of strength once Jensen emerged from a battle royale for the center spot to anchor the interior. Thrust into starting duty for the first time, and without stud guards to protect him, he more than held his own. Baltimore's run game took off and he fared well enough in pass protection for other teams to notice. Baltimore has lost quality offensive linemen to free agency with some regularity in recent years; Jensen could add to that list.

Kyle Fuller CHI • CB • 23 It wasn't that long ago that people were wondering about this kid's future, with injuries stalling Fuller's development. When he's been healthy, he's been a playmaker. It was obvious in his rookie season and it was on display with plenty of regularity in 2017. He was a big part of why the Bears' no-name defense fared so well, and no doubt coordinator Vic Fangio wants him back. While he won't come cheap by any stretch, given his high-end potential to be a true No. 1 corner, there could still be value for the team that signs him.

Josh McCown NYJ • QB • 15 There isn't a better-liked guy in the league, there isn't a better veteran passer to put around a rookie and, in the AFC last season, until McCown's season-ending injury, there were only a few quarterbacks playing at a higher level. He's a big part of why the Jets – who some thought would go 0-16 – were still hanging around the playoff conversation in December, and I'd much rather take my chances with him, even at this stage of his career, for $8-$10M for 2018 than put a or Brock Osweiler with some supposedly upstart QB at twice the price. Jacksonville or Arizona could make sense, maybe even Denver.

Donte Moncrief IND • WR • 10 I've been waiting for several years for Moncrief to put it all together, and maybe it will never happen at this point. But I'd take a shot on him on a prove-it contract. Wait and see what Jarvis Landry and Mike Wallace get in free agency, let the market settle down and, if I am Baltimore, Cleveland or Buffalo, for instance, see what this kid can do outside He's just 24, he had a very solid 2015 – his last full season – and given the Colts' upheaval at the quarterback spot in two seasons basically without Andrew Luck, I'll give a mulligan and see what he 6-2 pass catcher can do in my offense.

Corey Graham PHI • DB • 24 Graham's no spring chicken, but he does adapt as well as anyone in the game and brings rings and stewardship with him. He can still play nickel corner if you need him to, he transitioned to safety with the Eagles and he just keeps winning. He would be a great addition to a young secondary and while father time will catch him at some point, I'm not betting on it happening in 2018.

Bradley McDougald SEA • DB • 30 McDougald has been something of a journeyman the last few years, but I loved the way he played for the Seahawks and he brings versatility as well. If I can find a guy for a limited expenditure who can wear various hats if forced to do so when injuries invariably occur, that's what I'm prizing in free agency.

Paul Richardson SEA • WR • 10 Richardson's speed is undeniable and he gives you an immediate spark in your return game and the potential to get behind any safety in the league. Yes, there are durability concerns and we'll see if he can turn himself into a receiver who can win all over the field. He lacks ideal size, but even if he turns out to be simply a deep-ball threat, it would make sense for any number of teams in the $7M a year range (while guys like Landry flirt with $16M). Maybe the Jets pair him with Kirk Cousins (given Robbie Anderson's legal trouble)?

Alex Okafor NO • DE • 57 An Achilles injury ended what was a very strong season a year ago in New Orleans, but Okafor's just 27 and given the dearth of pass-rush options, I don't think the injury will matter to some teams. This is exactly the kind of guy someone like Bill Belichick should take a shot on. You can't put a list like this together without trying to identity someone who can get to the quarterback without costing a boatload, and Okafor will have no shortage of suitors, yet can still turn out to be a bargain. That's where I want to do my free-agent shopping.

Will the Jets be Kirk Cousins' landing spot? It appears they're willing to pay By Frank Schwab Yahoo.com Feb. 20, 2018

Kirk Cousins won’t lack suitors.

If the free-agent-to-be quarterback wants as much cash as possible, it appears the are willing to give it to him. The Jets are “willing to pay whatever it takes,” sources told ESPN’s Rich Cimini. And they’ll have the ability to do that.

While the Jets won’t reach the available cap space that the Cleveland Browns will have, they’ll be in the ballpark and that will be more than enough. The Jets have an estimated $76.4 million in cap space now according to Spotrac and can create more by cutting defensive lineman Muhammad Wilkerson, running back Matt Forte, cornerback Buster Skrine, offensive tackle Ben Ijalana and guard James Carpenter. That will put them easily over $90 million in cap space. However much any team can offer Cousins, the Jets can match and probably exceed it. Since most free-agency decisions come down to money, no matter what a player says beforehand, that gives the Jets a chance.

However, Cousins has been adamant he wants to play for a winner, and it’s tough to see the Jets in that class. The Jets overachieved to get to 5-11 last season, and a big reason was that Josh McCown had a good season. It’s not like Cousins would have added many more wins. McCown and Cousins were, statistically, relatively similar last season. Cousins is a better player, and certainly the one you want going forward, but the 2017 Jets wouldn’t have been a playoff contender with Cousins. The 2018 Jets likely won’t be a playoff contender with Cousins, either. There are still significant holes in the roster and they’re a couple years away at least from being a threat to the Patriots in the AFC East. Some issues could be addressed in free agency, and Cousins would be the centerpiece of the building effort. But Cousins would have to want to be part of a building project, when he has said he wants to go to a winner. The Jets would also have to convince him they’re a better long-term option than any other rebuilding team like the Browns, who have a lot of young talent and two of the top four picks of this year’s draft.

Cousins could choose to go to teams closer to the playoff race than the Jets, like the Denver Broncos or Arizona Cardinals. Perhaps the will be interested if they can’t retain Case Keenum. Cousins might have to take a little less money from those teams. The Jets will be in the running too. Nobody is going to be able to overbid them, at least.

Ten quarterbacks worth pursuing in free agency/2018 NFL Draft By NFL.com Feb. 20, 2018

Over the next several months, the rosters of all 32 teams will begin to take shape for the 2018 season. In this series, NFL.com writers and analysts look at the best players available via free agency or the NFL Draft at the following positions: quarterback, running back, wide receiver, defensive back, pass rusher. Today, David Carr looks at the top 10 quarterbacks worth pursuing.

1) , free agent I'm not quite sure why New Orleans still hasn't locked down Brees. He's one of the most accurate quarterbacks I've ever seen and his leadership is off the charts. For the first time in a long time, Brees wasn't the center of the offense in 2017 -- thanks to Mark Ingram and Alvin Kamara in the backfield -- but he was able to dice up defenses when asked (See: NFC Divisional Round). There will be questions about his age (39), but he should be leading a contender as long as he continues to take care of his body.

2) Kirk Cousins, free agent

In a market that resembles a domino game, Cousins is likely to be one of the first QBs to fall off the list. He proved he can be a major player in this league in an organization where he wasn't necessarily valued as such. Cousins, who will be 30 at the start of the 2018 season, has put up big numbers since winning the starting job in 2015, doing it even when he hasn't had a ton of talent around him.

3) Case Keenum, free agent Keenum's not the most talented quarterback on the market, but he did a phenomenal job in Minnesota this season. From taking this team over early in the season to executing a throw that resulted in the Miracle, Keenum proved he can handle any situation. People knocked him all season but he answered the bell each week, leading the Vikings to a 12-3 record as a starter (including playoffs). His accuracy, poise and leadership just might put him in another starting role in 2018.

4) Josh Rosen, draft prospect He's the most pro-ready quarterback in this draft class, and I believe Rosen could win a starting job in a lot of places due to his football IQ and physical ability. I've had conversations with him, and he reminds me of , who I've said countless times is the smartest player I've ever been around. Having that same type of vibe, you get the sense he's almost bored. Some evaluators will see this trait as arrogance, but the teams that aren't intimidated by his intellect will challenge him. Give Rosen a playbook and a few months, and he'll bring it to life.

5) AJ McCarron, free agent He's been a backup in Cincinnati since coming into the league in 2014, making just three starts in the 2015 season -- and one playoff start -- for an injured Andy Dalton. In those four starts, McCarron put up a 5:1 touchdown-to- ratio and proved he can handle big situations. He has the physical ability and demeanor to lead a team. He just needs an opportunity. 6) Chase Daniel, free agent Daniel's been around a long time and although he hasn't made more than two starts in nine seasons, he plays well when he's on the field. Daniel just finished a one-year deal with the Saints, his second stint with the team (the first being 2010-12), and knowing a lot about this league, teams don't bring a guy back if they don't think highly of him. As good as the Saints were in 2017, I think Daniel could've done a fine job leading the offense -- similar to what Case Keenum was able to do in Minnesota. Daniel might not have the talent or elite skill set some of the draft prospects possess, but that doesn't mean he can't execute a game plan.

7) Josh Allen, draft prospect If we were comparing just physical ability here, Allen might be at the very top of this list. He has the size (6-foot-5, 233 pounds) and a rare, elite arm. No throw is too challenging for the Wyoming passer, who was asked to do more than most of the other QBs in his draft class during college. Allen has a ton of upside, but the one unknown here is experience.

8) Sam Darnold, draft prospect

There's a ton to like about USC's young gunslinger. He has freakish physical abilities, which was obvious when he walked into one of the most storied football programs and played well, but his age (20) concerns me. He'll likely be one of the top quarterbacks drafted in April, but I'd like him to sit behind a veteran and stay off the field until he's mentally ready. He tends to be a little loose with the football and is eerily similar to in that regard. I don't want turnovers and bad decisions to become who Darnold is if he's thrust into a starting position right away.

9) Baker Mayfield, draft prospect I'm not condoning his brash behavior, but, from a football standpoint, he's got a lot going for him. I have to give him credit for going from two-time walk-on at two Big 12 schools (Texas Tech and Oklahoma) to winner. He's lower on my list because he's not as physically gifted and doesn't have a big arm that can transcend an offense, but he's athletic and has the "it" factor. Mayfield isn't afraid of the moment and is going to give his team everything he has. Like Keenum, he has that natural energy that will elevate the play of his teammates when he's leading the huddle.

10) Sam Bradford, free agent Bradford will always be in this conversation: Remember that really good game Bradford had two or three years ago? He was so accurate. Remember THAT game? It's unfortunate because he's at the very top of this list if he's healthy. He hasn't played a full 16-game season since 2012. You know what they say: A quarterback's best ability is availability, and Bradford hasn't been regularly available for quite some time.

On the fringe: Teddy Bridgewater, free agent

Since Drew Brees shouldn't even be on this list, I've added one more quarterback for good measure. For Teddy to get back to the Teddy we were all excited to see before his freakish injury, he needs confidence in that knee and a TON of reps. It'll be good for him to go through a full offseason, OTAs and training camp fully healthy. He's an accurate quarterback and won't get an offense into trouble. The biggest concern I have is whether he can put the past behind him and feel comfortable in the pocket with guys flying around him. That said, Teddy has the ability to play in any system and could elevate quarterback play for quite a few teams.

San Francisco 49ers headline desirable free-agent destinations By Adam Schein NFL.com Feb. 20, 2018

After signing Jimmy Garoppolo to a mega-bucks contract, 49ers general manager John Lynch declared that he wanted to make San Francisco a destination for free agents. Well, that was a perfect start.

So what are the best destinations for 2018 free agents, factoring in team, location, weather (Lynch raved about the beautiful sunshine in Northern California), winning culture, up-and-comers, surrounding talent, quarterbacks, ownership, cap room and everything else of consequence?

Well, that's an intriguing question. Allow me to answer -- with a twist ...

Since Lynch's words inspired this piece, let's keep this in the realm of Lynch's 49ers, limiting eligibility to teams that didn't make the playoffs this past season. Free agents have to believe they can be the missing piece, like Calais Campbell and A.J. Bouye with the Jaguars, or Andrew Whitworth with the Rams.

Here are nine desirable spots for free agents in 2018:

1) San Francisco 49ers John Lynch is right about everything. Jimmy G is a franchise quarterback -- he's the pied piper, and thus, worth every single penny. At the end of November, San Francisco was 1-10, playing out the string and eyeing a top slot in the 2018 NFL Draft. Enter Garoppolo, and the 49ers ran off five straight wins to finish the season, averaging 28.8 points per game in the process. In a Week 16 showdown with Jacksonville, Jimmy G and Co. shredded the Jaguars' vaunted defense for a 44-33 win. Suddenly, San Francisco became the most buzzworthy 6-10 team in memory. Garoppolo completely reinvigorated one of the league's most storied franchises -- and he did it with a supporting cast that left much to be desired.

Now, in Year 2, Lynch and Kyle Shanahan have a chance to dominate free agency. According to OverTheCap.com, San Francisco currently has the third-most cap space in the NFL. The Niners possess a true franchise quarterback to build around, and a superb offensive mind to maximize the talents of said signal-caller.

49ers Faithful endured some rough play following 's ouster, but this team is back in the spotlight heading into next season. Free agents, especially on offense, should flock to the beautiful City by the Bay.

2) At the beginning of this year, the Texans smartly gave Bill O'Brien a long-term extension, ending any ambiguity about his future. Consequently, Houston nabs a lofty spot on this list. This is a team with talent on both sides of the ball. And now that everyone's working in the same direction -- and key pieces are on the mend after season-ending injuries in 2017 -- these Texans should appear quite attractive to those hitting the open market.

Before tearing his ACL during an early-November practice, was a revelation in his first pro campaign. Over his final five games, the rookie quarterback produced 18 touchdown passes and a 113.3 quarterback rating. And when Watson joined my SiriusXM show, "Schein on Sports," on radio row at the Super Bowl, he guaranteed that he'd back healthy for the start of training camp. Watson isn't the only difference-maker coming back from the sidelines, either: J.J. Watt and each logged just five games in 2017. Anyone think that had something to do with Houston ranking 23rd in sacks last season?

The Texans have more than $50 million in cap space, according to OverTheCap.com. With the right offseason moves, Houston could easily reach its win total from last season (four) by mid-October.

3) Arizona Cardinals Arizona has become one of the great organizations in the NFL. Team prez Michael Bidwill is a gem. The public relations staff is sensational, something that's obviously important to players. In the wake of Bruce Arians' retirement, GM Steve Keim astutely snatched up Steve Wilks to lead his team -- and then received an extension through 2022, matching the length of his new coach's deal. Wise move by the franchise. Keim started with the team two decades ago as an area scout on the East Coast, going from Maine to Miami. Cardinals football is his way of life. Since taking over as general manager in 2013, he's collected talent on both sides of the ball. Now he needs a new man to steer the offense, with joining Arians in retirement.

One thing that could help attract a capable quarterback in free agency: The iconic signing up for another season. Free agents -- at the QB position and elsewhere -- should want to be the missing piece to get Fitz that coveted ring. Arizona is closer to getting back in contention than most people think.

4) The reason Green Bay isn't at the top of this list is because Mike McCarthy doesn't have the long-term contract that he deserves. The Packers quietly gave their Super Bowl-winning coach a one-year extension through 2019 during the 2017 campaign, so he won't enter this season as a lame duck. Well, technically speaking, at least. The situation remains fluid. Off-putting stuff for free agents looking to establish long-term stability.

That said, Aaron Rodgers is still the best quarterback in the NFL today. That means you can win a Super Bowl every year he plays. And with Ted Thompson out of the GM post, I expect Green Bay to actually seek roster upgrades in free agency. What a concept!

5) Oakland Raiders

Talked to Derek Carr on SiriusXM Radio this past Friday. He is SO energized to work with Jon Gruden. My prediction: With Gruden's acumen and attitude, Carr, Amari Cooper (who, Carr told me, was battling a balky foot last season) and the Raiders will instantly turn things around and get right back in the Super Bowl conversation.

Oakland was one of the biggest letdowns in the NFL this past season, falling from grace (and a whole bunch of preseason hype) to finish 2017 at 6-10. But this roster remains enticing, with talents like Carr and at prime age (both turning 27 this offseason). The only reason the Raiders aren't a tad higher on this list: Vegas looms, and isn't for everyone.

6) has a few more years left of being brilliant. Los Angeles boasts a stud running back (Melvin Gordon), a true No. 1 wideout () and a dynamic pass-rushing duo ( and ). remains grossly underrated as a No. 1 corner, while safety Desmond King provided plenty of playmaking to get excited about during his rookie campaign.

Long story short: The Chargers are close to being great under second-year head coach Anthony Lynn, who overcame some early setbacks (particularly in the kicking game) to win six out of the last seven games and finish at a respectable 9-7 in his debut season.

The issue is the location.

Oh, I love L.A. But the Chargers seemingly played 16 road games last year, with support at the StubHub Center being less than optimal. It's somewhere between a problem and a work in progress.

7) Cleveland Browns BELIEVE! Young talent! Top pick in the draft! No. 4 pick in the draft! Six selections in the first 65 picks! John Dorsey, a widely respected football guy, taking the franchise reins from the Ivy Leaguers and baseball dudes!

Oh, and did I mention more than $110 million in cap space?!

Fresh off the second 0-16 season in NFL history, Cleveland's in position to own this offseason, comfortably boasting the most draft currency and real currency in the entire league. Anyone who helps turn around this long-downtrodden organization will earn heaps of external praise -- and internal satisfaction.

The only question -- and one that could give free agents pause -- is Hue Jackson's future. The guy's 1-31 as head coach of the Browns. How long is his leash in Year 3?

8) I detailed last week -- in my new coach rankings -- how much I love the Matt Patricia hire. He makes Detroit better and more accountable just by walking into the building.

And coming off their second consecutive 9-7 season, the Lions could be just a few key acquisitions away from contending for the division title and beyond. No shortage of cap space, either, as OverTheCap.com has them north of $44 million. Running backs should beg GM Bob Quinn for a meeting!

9) I'd run to Chicago, especially if I were a receiver. Mainly because the Bears don't have any. But I like the Matt Nagy hire a lot. And with flanked by Jordan Howard and , Nagy and new offensive coordinator Mark Helfrich have some fun toys to play with. Now the Bears, who have $40 million-plus in cap space, need to refurbish the O-line and add some talent to the receiver room.

Want first-class treatment? Win in Second City. Gridiron success breeds legendary status in the nation's third-biggest metropolis. Teammate thinks Denver’s the destination for Kirk Cousins By Darin Gantt Pro Football Talk Feb. 20, 2018

Soon-to-be free agent quarterback Kirk Cousins is about to get rich(er) because there are multiple teams who want him.

But one of his recent Washington teammates thinks one team in particular may have an edge in the pursuit.

During an appearance on NFL Network, Washington safety D.J. Swearinger thinks the Broncos have both the cash and the supporting cast to sway Cousins.

“With the situation they have out there on defense, they’re missing their quarterback,” Swearinger said, via the Denver Post. “Kirk is a great quarterback. I wish we could have had different things on that, but the business is the business. I think Kirk will be getting a healthy payday and I think Denver is the team that can do that.”

Cousins has said on a number of occasions that he’s not simply going to be driven by which team piles the most loot in front of him. That may be the Jets’ strategy, but it would be hard to imagine a situation where that puts them closer to winning than the Broncos with competent quarterback play.

Dolphins could pursue C.J. Anderson again if Broncos release him By Charean Williams Pro Football Talk Feb. 20, 2018

C.J. Anderson almost became a Dolphin two years ago. The Broncos, though, matched Miami’s offer sheet.

Now, two years later, the Broncos could make the running back a salary-cap casualty as he has a $4.5 million salary cap number for 2018. His release would free up nearly $5 million for the Broncos to pursue Kirk Cousins.

If the Broncos part ways with Anderson, the Dolphins again could have interest, Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald reports.

Anderson played for Dolphins coach Adam Gase when Gase ran the Denver offense.

Anderson, who turned 27 earlier this month, set career highs in 2017 with 245 carries for 1,007 yards. He also caught 28 passes for 224 yards.

The Dolphins, who traded Jay Ajayi during the season, could lose Damien Williams, who is scheduled to become a free agent.

DirecTV raises price for NFL Sunday Ticket By Michael David Smith Pro Football Talk Feb. 20, 2018

Being a hard-core NFL fan is getting more expensive.

DirecTV is raising prices on its NFL Sunday Ticket package, which is the only way to watch every NFL game. The retail price will reach an all-time high of $293.94 in 2018, with the package that includes Red Zone Channel increasing to $395.95.

Many subscribers don’t pay full price, as DirecTV often offers discounts to entice new subscribers, or to convince current subscribers to renew. But the base price of the package is higher than ever.

And that may point to the future of the NFL on television: For many years, the NFL has thrived by reaching as broad an audience as possible. But with audiences shrinking the last two years and advertising revenue down last year, the league may seek to make more money off fans who are paying more money to see games. That includes fans who buy the Sunday Ticket package and fans who pay for the cable Red Zone Channel.

Although there were scattered reports of people canceling Sunday Ticket last year to protest players protesting during the national anthem, DirecTV can likely continue to raise Sunday Ticket prices for some time and lose few subscribers. It remains a popular package, one that millions of fans think is well worth a few hundred dollars a year.