NFL Notes: Saquon Barkley, Chargers, Chiefs, Colts

Saquon Barkley

An NFL college scouting director tells Lance Zierlein of NFL.com that while Ezekiel Elliott is the obvious comp for Penn State RB Saquon Barkley, the number of big hits he takes is a concern and an area where Elliott has a leg up on him.

“He’s as good as Ezekiel Elliott and I thought Elliot was the best player in the draft when he came out,” the scouting director said. “The one thing that really worries me about (Saquon) Barkley is the hits he takes. (He’s in) big collisions all the time. He has to learn how to slip some of those to preserve his career. That’s where Elliott has a leg up on him.”

Chargers

Last week, there was some talk that people in the NFL including commissioner Roger Goodell didn’t want to see the Chargers leave San Diego and the league was at least talking about the possibility of forcing the team to consider going back (NFLTR).

However, NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy downplayed Eric D. Williams of ESPN that suggestion and said they’re committed the team’s long-term success in Los Angeles.

“We are committed to and confident of the long-term success of the two teams in Los Angeles,” McCarthy told Williams.

Meanwhile, sports business consultant Marc Ganis, who works closely with the NFL on relocation issues told Williams that he can’t see the NFL pressuring the Chargers to move back.

“The NFL helped them to try and get the deal approved in San Diego,” Ganis said. “It didn’t happen. And as a result, I have not heard and do not envision anyone to try and force the Chargers to look at San Diego again.

“If the Chargers choose to on their own look at San Diego or someplace else, I’m sure the league, as it has done for other teams, would be supportive. But I have heard of no one that has or is considering trying to force the Chargers to re-look at San Diego.”

Chiefs

• Chiefs HC Andy Reid said Thursday that there’s a chance they could bring back K Cairo Santos from the injured reserve list later on this season. (Terez A. Paylor)

Colts

• Colts C Ryan Kelly (foot) put in a limited practice on Thursday, but Stephen Holder mentions that he’s still unlikely to suit up against the Seahawks in Week 4.