Jets | Christian Hackenberg not expected in ’16

New York Jets QB Christian Hackenberg struggled with his accuracy in offseason workouts, and appeared methodical with his footwork while also making poor decisions. Beat writer Rich Cimini notes the rookie showed his arm strength, though, especially on deep balls. He needs to develop consistency. Hackenberg is not expected to play in 2016.

Lions | Detroit offense tougher for defenses?

Detroit Lions QB Matthew Stafford believes his offense will be tougher to defend without former WR Calvin Johnson. Stafford said defenses won’t know who the Lions will go to on offense, whereas most of the time in previous years Johnson was their go-to guy.

Footballguys View: Yeah, we’ll believe it when we see it. How can you lose a top WR in the game and be BETTER on offense? We’ll be skeptical about this, but at least Stafford is showing confidence as he moves forward without Johnson. Golden Tate and Marvin Jones will be the top two wideouts for the Lions in 2016. We see Tate as a low-end WR2 while Jones is more of a low-end WR3 for fantasy owners. The current ADP for Tate is WR22 (4.04) while Jones is at WR41 (9.03) in 12-team PPR leagues.

Vikings | Bridgewater, Kyle Rudolph connecting

Minnesota Vikings QB Teddy Bridgewater said he and TE Kyle Rudolph talk about how they can improve when they’re not on the field. Bridgewater also said Rudolph studies the plays from a quarterback’s perspective. The young quarterback has learned to trust his tight end more, too, and Bridgewater has counted on Rudolph to come through.

Footballguys View: As Bridgewater continues to develop as a pro QB, he should be more efficient as a passer. We see Bridgewater as a low-end QB2 in this run-heavy offense. Rudolph is always a key piece in the Vikings passing game but only a TE2 for fantasy owners.

Packers | Sam Barrington staying patient

Green Bay Packers LB Sam Barrington (foot) said it has taken an ‘immense amount of patience’ to rehabilitate from a serious foot injury he suffered last season. Barrington said he used the time off to find ways to get better. The expected starting middle linebacker is still focusing on growing as a player. Barrington acknowledged that whether or not he starts will be based on if he prepares himself the right way.

Footballguys View: Barrington had somewhat of a breakout season in 2014 before suffering this foot injury in 2015. He’s almost back in action, but needs to prove that he can stay healthy after twice being placed on Injured Reserve since he came into the league as a run-stuffing seventh-round pick in 2013.