NFL Player News

Richardson hurt his hamstring during the Ravens' offseason program last week.

Among the latest teams to hold its first OTA on Thursday, the Ravens were bound to reveal the news due to Richardson's lack of participation in front of assembled media. In his attempted NFL comeback, any reps missed puts him behind the eight ball, though plenty of time remains to continue making an impression on the fourth organization of his career. Helping his cause is a more toned physique, as he's whittled down his weight to 218 pounds from its reported maximum of 240 pounds, but a reserve gig is likely the best he can expect in a backfield led by Justin Forsett (arm) and Javorius Allen.

Abdullah underwent shoulder surgery in January to repair a torn labrum and could miss the remainder of the offseason as he continues to rehab, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports.

Abdullah is coming off a rookie campaign with the Lions in which he led the team in rushing yards with 597 on 143 carries, while he played the final two games of the season with an injured shoulder that would eventually require surgery. The team has elected to proceed cautiously during their potential starting running back's rehab until training camp, but he appears to be ahead of schedule. Abdullah's Week 1 status isn't currently in doubt, while Theo Riddick, Stevan Ridley, Zach Zenner (chest), and incoming rookie Dwayne Washington should see additional opportunities this offseason with Abdullah sidelined.

Anderson currently weighs just over 220 pounds, after reporting to OTAs at 240 pounds last season, ESPN reports.

The stocky running back started slow in 2015, only to become the most effective part of Denver's offense by the playoffs. A lighter, quicker Anderson could bode well for a faster start, but he'll also be facing stiffer competition than last season. Last year's leading rusher, Ronnie Hillman, returns, and fourth-round pick Devontae Booker's skill set appears tailor-made for Denver's one-cut scheme. Anderson should see more consistent production in 2016, is almost certain to share plenty of carries.

Gordon (knee) is participating in individual drills at the start of OTAs, Michael Gehlken of the San Diego Union-Tribune reports.

Ahead of schedule in his recovery from January microfracture surgery, Gordon may be limited during OTAs, but he hopes to be a full participant at June minicamp. He's a clear favorite to handle most of the early-down workload, but both Danny Woodhead and Branden Oliver represent serious competition for snaps and touches. The San Diego offense operated best last season when it abandoned the run and used Woodhead over Gordon. This may have partially been due to questionable running by the rookie, but a slew of injuries on the offensive line was likely the bigger factor. Improved health up front would at least give Gordon the opportunity to break out, though he still needs to prove that he brings more than straight-line speed to the table.

Chargers running backs coach Ollie Wilson expects Oliver (turf toe) to have a big role in 2016, the Chargers' official website reports.

Oliver, a 2014 UDFA, seems to have made a full recovery from the toe injury that landed him on IR after eight games. Melvin Gordon (knee) and Danny Woodhead figure to get most of the snaps, but Oliver could also mix in. His roster spot appears secure, and he might eventually challenge for a leading role if Gordon isn't up to the task. It's also worth noting that Gordon is still recovering from January microfracture surgery, though he is expected to be ready for training camp.

Elliott, the fourth overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, signed a four-year, $24.9 million contract with the Cowboys on Wednesday, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports.

As is the case for all first-round selections, Elliott's contract includes a fifth-year team option. He's expected to step right in as the lead back behind an elite offensive line, potentially handling a heavy three-down workload from the get-go. Given his combination of talent and ideal team context, Elliott may be an immediate fantasy star. Darren McFadden, Alfred Morris and Lance Dunbar (knee) could also get some work in the Dallas backfield.

Taliaferro will likely have to compete for a roster spot, CSN Mid-Atlantic reports.

With Justin Forsett, Javorius Allen and Kenneth Dixon all considered roster locks, Taliaferro may end up competing with Trent Richardson, Terrence West and others for what will likely be just one roster (or practice squad) spot. Of course, there's always a chance injuries could take a toll on Baltimore's running back depth during training camp and the preseason. The 230-pound Taliaferro might be the most powerful runner on the roster, but he's been plagued by injuries since the Ravens selected him in the fourth round of the 2014 NFL Draft. He seems to have made a full recovery from the foot injury that landed him on IR last last season.

Despite having microfracture surgery Jan. 5, Gordon (knee) is targeting a full return by June minicamp, the San Diego Union-Tribune reports.

Microfracture surgery often requires an extended absence with possible complications, but Gordon's procedure reportedly wasn't too invasive. He's already taking part in some offseason workouts, and he said he has no doubt that he'll be a full participant at the start of training camp. Assuming no setbacks, Gordon has a clear path to the lead-back role in San Diego, following a rookie season in which he averaged just 3.5 yards per carry behind an injury-ravaged offensive line. Danny Woodhead also figures to have a significant role, particularly in obvious passing situations.

Gordon says he's ahead of schedule in his recovery from January knee surgery and expects to be ready for training camp, Michael Gehlken of the San Diego Union-Tribune reports.

Gordon had surgery to repair torn cartilage in his left knee, but has taken part in the Chargers' offseason workouts thus far. While that suggests Gordon's recovery has gone well, he confirmed that notion Monday, adding that he isn't worried about being ready once training camp rolls around. After a disappointing rookie season, a healthy Gordon will aim to make a more meaningful impact in 2016, when San Diego's recent signing of offensive lineman Matt Slauson should help clear more lanes in the running game.

Magee was released by the Ravens on Friday, Jeff Zrebiec of the Baltimore Sun reports.

Magee was an undrafted free agent in 2015 and played just 23 snaps for the Ravens in his rookie campaign. His release is relatively unsurprising given that he was buried on the team's depth chart and unlikely to see much, if any, time in 2016. Without Magee, Baltimore is left with five running backs currently under contract.