The New England Patriots will not be allowed to place the franchise tag on impending free-agent OT Nate Solder this offseason because it is prohibited as part of his expiring contract. Solder is expected to take some time before deciding on if he wants to play in 2018.

Miami Dolphins CB Tony Lippett (Achilles’) said his rehab is going well and that he expects to be ready for offseason workouts.

Denver Broncos WR Demaryius Thomas has a $1 million option in his contract that would trigger the final two years of the contract if exercised, and the Broncos have until the middle of March to make a decision on the option. The team would take on $3.1 million in dead money if they decide to decline the option. Thomas would count around $12 million and $17.5 million in the cap space over the next two seasons if the option is picked up.

The Houston Texans parted ways with assistant director of pro personnel Larry Wright, senior director of player engagement Sean Washington, director of sports science Erik Korem and pro scout Tolu Lasaki Friday, Feb. 9, according to multiple sources.

New York Giants general manager Dave Gettleman has hired former Carolina Panthers director of player development Mark Koncz as a consultant.

The Denver Broncos have hired Rob Grosso to serve as an assistant to head coach Vance Joseph. Grosso was an operations intern with the organization during the 2017 season.

The Washington Redskins hired Phil Rauscher to be their new assistant offensive line coach Friday, Feb. 9. He had served as an assistant to Denver Broncos head coach Vance Joseph during the 2017 season.

The Pittsburgh Steelers had expressed interest in South Florida defensive backs coach Blue Adams for the same position with their organization before ultimately settling upon Tom Bradley for the job.

The Houston Texans hired Luke Richesson to be their new strength and rehabilitation coach Friday, Feb. 9. He had served in the same capacity with the Denver Broncos for the last six seasons.

Iowa C James Daniels has good size, power and quickness, according to an NFC executive. ‘He would come in and challenge for best center in our division right away,’ the executive said.