Detroit Lions TE Eric Ebron is ‘functioning better’ this season, according to head coach Jim Caldwell, and Caldwell said Ebron has the talent and ability to continue to improve.

New England Patriots RB LeGarrette Blount has the best conversion rate in the NFL this season on carries from the one-yard line, scoring on 10 of his 16 attempts, and Blount said he has the right mentality to be successful running in the red zone.

The Detroit Lions signed free-agent TE Kennard Backman to the practice squad Saturday, Dec. 31.

Detroit Lions WR Jace Billingsley was signed from the practice squad Saturday, Dec. 31.

New England Patriots WR Malcolm Mitchell (knee) has been downgraded to out and won’t play against the Miami Dolphins in Week 17.

The San Francisco 49ers are expected to fire head coach Chip Kelly and general manager Trent Baalke, according to sources.

New England Patriots CB Cyrus Jones said it has been harder than he anticipated to adjust to returning kicks in the NFL, but he said the team still believes in him and he will be ready to make plays when the opportunity arises.

Chicago Bears WR Cameron Meredith was praised for his consistency and versatility by offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains, and Loggains said Meredith has earned the trust of his quarterbacks with his play this season.

Detroit Lions WR Marvin Jones had 408 receiving yards in the first three games but just 446 yards over the last 11 games, and Jones said double-coverage and an offense designed to spread the ball around has resulted in his lack of production.

Cleveland Browns QB Robert Griffin III has roughly a 50 percent chance at returning as the starter for the team in 2017, according to ESPNCleveland’s Tony Grossi.