New England Patriots LB Jamie Collins (oblique) expects to play in the AFC Championship against the Denver Broncos despite dealing with an oblique strain.

New England Patriots LB Jamie Collins (oblique) expects to play in the AFC Championship against the Denver Broncos despite dealing with an oblique strain.

Cleveland Browns QB Johnny Manziel (concussion) has cleared the concussion protocol, according to team official Sashi Brown. Manziel was fined for missing a treatment Jan. 3.

Cleveland Browns QB Johnny Manziel (concussion) has cleared the concussion protocol, according to team official Sashi Brown. Manziel was fined for missing a treatment Jan. 3.

Carolina Panthers RB Jonathan Stewart (ankle) is returning to practice Thursday, Jan. 21, after taking a veteran day off Wednesday, Jan. 20.

Carolina Panthers DE Jared Allen (foot) is at practice without a helmet or cleats Thursday, Jan. 21, and he doesn’t have a noticeable limp. If he can get through practice Thursday and Friday, Jan. 22, without setbacks, he’ll likely get a chance to play in the NFC Championship against the Arizona Cardinals.

Baltimore Ravens QB Joe Flacco (knee) is six weeks removed from surgery to fix two torn knee ligaments, and he said his rehab is ‘going really well.’ He’s confident that he’ll be fully recovered by the start of the regular season in September. ‘I’m coming along great,’ Flacco said. ‘I don’t think there is any way I’m not going out there ready to go right away. Don’t quote me. But that’s just me. I have no timetable. I’m really taking it day by day and getting better and better each week.’

Baltimore Ravens QB Joe Flacco said he’s motivated to restructure his contract this offseason in order to help the team gain extra salary cap space for free agency. Flacco’s cap number moves to $28.55 million in 2016, which ranks third in the NFL. He’ll make $18 million next year even if he doesn’t agree to restructure.

Carolina Panthers DE Jared Allen (foot) is practicing Thursday, Jan. 21, but the team has rendered him doubtful for the NFC Championship game against the Arizona Cardinals.

Seattle Seahawks impending free-agent WR Jermaine Kearse said he won’t offer the team a hometown discount. ‘I love my hometown, but I’ve put in too much hard work to give a discount,’ Kearse said via text message. ‘My number one priority is to take care of my family’s future, so I will consider all opportunities.’