4 days ago
This could be interesting. Rookie running back CJ Donaldson is expected to come up from the New Orleans Saints practice squad for Week 1's road game with the Detroit Lions, reports Nick Underhill for NewOrleans.Football. While the Saints will have Travis Etienne Jr. and Kendre Miller in the lineup, veteran rusher Alvin Kamara is questionable to play and Audric Estime has been preemptively ruled out with a thigh injury. This would be one of three times the Saints can elevate Donaldson from the practice squad before they're required to promote him to the 53-man roster.
Donaldson is a bigger back, listed at 6-foot-1 and 230 pounds, and the Saints took time to figure out what he could do during the preseason and training camp by moving him around the formation as a fullback and halfback. That's a role he's familiar with dating back to his time in college with Ohio State and West Virginia. We know that rookie tight end Oscar Delp isn't playing in Week 1 due to a hamstring injury so maybe Donaldson does more than take some handoffs in short-yardage situations. He could get some opportunities to pave the way as a lead blocker and stand up blitzing defenders in the backfield.
But that doesn't mean he won't get some carries. Even if Etienne is going to take the lion's share of rushing attempts, Kamara isn't likely to see many touches if he does get the green light, being so soon removed from a preseason knee injury. Miller has missed 30 of his 51 possible games with New Orleans because of injuries. It makes sense to have Donaldson available in case of an emergency, if for no other reason than to keep Kamara from being rushed into some unfavorable situations.
This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: Report: Rookie RB to be called up from Saints practice squad vs. Lions
#rookie #squad #injury
Donaldson is a bigger back, listed at 6-foot-1 and 230 pounds, and the Saints took time to figure out what he could do during the preseason and training camp by moving him around the formation as a fullback and halfback. That's a role he's familiar with dating back to his time in college with Ohio State and West Virginia. We know that rookie tight end Oscar Delp isn't playing in Week 1 due to a hamstring injury so maybe Donaldson does more than take some handoffs in short-yardage situations. He could get some opportunities to pave the way as a lead blocker and stand up blitzing defenders in the backfield.
But that doesn't mean he won't get some carries. Even if Etienne is going to take the lion's share of rushing attempts, Kamara isn't likely to see many touches if he does get the green light, being so soon removed from a preseason knee injury. Miller has missed 30 of his 51 possible games with New Orleans because of injuries. It makes sense to have Donaldson available in case of an emergency, if for no other reason than to keep Kamara from being rushed into some unfavorable situations.
This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: Report: Rookie RB to be called up from Saints practice squad vs. Lions
#rookie #squad #injury
5 days ago
New Orleans Saints RB Alvin Kamara (knee) practiced fully on Friday, Sept. 11, and is listed as questionable for Week 1 against the Detroit Lions.
SOURCE: NewOrleansSaints.com
Why It Matters: With Kamara listed as questionable and practicing fully, he could factor into the backfield. He could be used as a flex play in leagues or an RB2 or RB3 in deeper ones. He will be a volatile play, though, with the team signing Travis Etienne Jr. this offseason, it leaves a lot up in the air with their backfield.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Alvin Kamara questionable for Week 1
#kamara #Alvin
SOURCE: NewOrleansSaints.com
Why It Matters: With Kamara listed as questionable and practicing fully, he could factor into the backfield. He could be used as a flex play in leagues or an RB2 or RB3 in deeper ones. He will be a volatile play, though, with the team signing Travis Etienne Jr. this offseason, it leaves a lot up in the air with their backfield.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Alvin Kamara questionable for Week 1
#kamara #Alvin
5 days ago
The Jacksonville Jaguars are facing the Cleveland Browns in Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season, and while experts are widely expecting the Jaguars to walk away with an easy win, that doesn't mean Jacksonville shouldn't take this game seriously.
The Jaguars have been extremely underrated this offseason, despite their success last year, and ***** ysts had already all but decided Jacksonville will not only not win the AFC South again, but will miss the playoffs altogether.
While the Browns may not pose much of a challenge in Week 1, the stretch of games following it are much tougher, which makes it all the more important for the Jaguars to send a strong statement to open the season. Here are five keys to a Jacksonville victory in the game.
The Jaguars' run game is one of the biggest question marks going into 2026, but pushing the run game will be more important than just proving Jacksonville still has a good running back room without Travis Etienne. Cleveland's defense was better against the pass than the run, so the Jacksonville offense should avoid playing into the Browns' strength. Jared Verse is an elite pass rusher, and he and the secondary will almost certainly be gunning for Trevor Lawrence.
Establishing the new look backfield will keep the offense out of obvious passing situations, and prevent Cleveland's pass rush and secondary from dictating the game.
#Browns #season #important
The Jaguars have been extremely underrated this offseason, despite their success last year, and ***** ysts had already all but decided Jacksonville will not only not win the AFC South again, but will miss the playoffs altogether.
While the Browns may not pose much of a challenge in Week 1, the stretch of games following it are much tougher, which makes it all the more important for the Jaguars to send a strong statement to open the season. Here are five keys to a Jacksonville victory in the game.
The Jaguars' run game is one of the biggest question marks going into 2026, but pushing the run game will be more important than just proving Jacksonville still has a good running back room without Travis Etienne. Cleveland's defense was better against the pass than the run, so the Jacksonville offense should avoid playing into the Browns' strength. Jared Verse is an elite pass rusher, and he and the secondary will almost certainly be gunning for Trevor Lawrence.
Establishing the new look backfield will keep the offense out of obvious passing situations, and prevent Cleveland's pass rush and secondary from dictating the game.
#Browns #season #important
8 days ago
The 2026 NFL season is finally here and you've likely got your fantasy football rosters all drafted for the upcoming campaign. With that, the time is now to start looking at rankings for Week 1.
Join or create a Yahoo Fantasy Football league for the 2026 NFL season
The running back landscape hasn't changed too drastically, though there are a few things to consider from the offseason. Jeremiyah Love was the top back taken off the board in the 2026 NFL Draft to the Arizona Cardinals. We saw a couple big-name free agents land in favorable spots with Kenneth Walker III joining the Chiefs and Travis Etienne Jr. in New Orleans.
Subscribe to Fantasy Ultra to unlock our Strategy Lab, 150+ page Draft Playbook and more!
While you won't have a difficult time plugging Jahmyr Gibbs into your starting lineup for Week 1, there will be plenty of tough lineup calls. Let us help you out with our consensus RB rankings for Week 1.
#Football #season #join
Join or create a Yahoo Fantasy Football league for the 2026 NFL season
The running back landscape hasn't changed too drastically, though there are a few things to consider from the offseason. Jeremiyah Love was the top back taken off the board in the 2026 NFL Draft to the Arizona Cardinals. We saw a couple big-name free agents land in favorable spots with Kenneth Walker III joining the Chiefs and Travis Etienne Jr. in New Orleans.
Subscribe to Fantasy Ultra to unlock our Strategy Lab, 150+ page Draft Playbook and more!
While you won't have a difficult time plugging Jahmyr Gibbs into your starting lineup for Week 1, there will be plenty of tough lineup calls. Let us help you out with our consensus RB rankings for Week 1.
#Football #season #join
10 days ago
TORONTO (AP) — Derrick Etienne Jr. scored the tying goal in second-half stoppage time and Josh Sargent recorded his first career hat trick as Toronto FC rallied for a 4-4 draw against the Chicago Fire on Saturday night.
Toronto (5-7-11) allowed the first goal and came back to earn at least a draw for the eighth time this season.
Chicago (11-6-5) played to a draw for the third straight match.
Sargent scored his first goal on a strike from the center of the box in the 27th minute. Nine minutes later, Sargent sent a shot past Chicago goalkeeper Chris Brady for a 2-1 lead. Sargent broke a 2-all tie in the 54th for Toronto's first hat trick since Federico Bernardeschi did so against Montreal on May 18, 2024.
But a pair of defensive breakdowns led to Chicago reclaiming the lead.
#sargent #toronto #time #lead
Toronto (5-7-11) allowed the first goal and came back to earn at least a draw for the eighth time this season.
Chicago (11-6-5) played to a draw for the third straight match.
Sargent scored his first goal on a strike from the center of the box in the 27th minute. Nine minutes later, Sargent sent a shot past Chicago goalkeeper Chris Brady for a 2-1 lead. Sargent broke a 2-all tie in the 54th for Toronto's first hat trick since Federico Bernardeschi did so against Montreal on May 18, 2024.
But a pair of defensive breakdowns led to Chicago reclaiming the lead.
#sargent #toronto #time #lead
12 days ago
Liverpool have completed a £4.3m deal for French forward Djylian N'Guessan from St-Etienne.
The 18-year-old will spend the first half of this season on loan at Ligue 1 side Brest, officially joining the Reds in January, when his situation will be reviewed.
N'Guessan is a product of the St-Etienne academy. He made his debut in January 2025 and featured 13 times, scoring one goal. St-Etienne have a sell-on clause in the deal with Liverpool.
As with goalkeeper Lucca Brughmanns, who was signed on transfer deadline day in a deal that could be worth up to £30m, the move for N'Guessan is a result of work from Liverpool's global talent department that is led by Matt Newberry.
The forward featured seven times for France at the 2025 U20 World Cup and was also named in the team of the tournament at last summer's U17 European Championship.
#etienne #january #featured #times
The 18-year-old will spend the first half of this season on loan at Ligue 1 side Brest, officially joining the Reds in January, when his situation will be reviewed.
N'Guessan is a product of the St-Etienne academy. He made his debut in January 2025 and featured 13 times, scoring one goal. St-Etienne have a sell-on clause in the deal with Liverpool.
As with goalkeeper Lucca Brughmanns, who was signed on transfer deadline day in a deal that could be worth up to £30m, the move for N'Guessan is a result of work from Liverpool's global talent department that is led by Matt Newberry.
The forward featured seven times for France at the 2025 U20 World Cup and was also named in the team of the tournament at last summer's U17 European Championship.
#etienne #january #featured #times
13 days ago
The Yahoo Expert League was a 12-team live draft streamed on YouTube. You can watch our **** ysis and pick-by-pick reactions for full context, but after taking part in the draft myself, I learned some things that will help you during draft weekend. Here are the top-five lessons learned from this half PPR league, one we will be playing out as a real league.
You can watch the full draft here.
Everyone in the room expressed nervousness about missing out on RBs. This was evident as high as third overall, when Justin Boone drafted Jonathan Taylor, even though it disagreed with his own and everyone's raw rankings. He knew (and was right) that the RB options at the Round 2/3 turn were going to be ugly, and he didn't want to go Zero RB.
Ditto for Scott Pianowski when he took Kyren Williams at 2.07 over literally any of the WRs in the Round 2 tier. Travis Etienne Jr. went 3.02, and Javonte Williams went 3.05. I've seen those players in the fourth round more often than the third round, but in a room full of full-time fantasy **** ysts, the RBs went at a premium early on.
Josh Allen went at 3.07. That's even after his Yahoo ADP, but his selection was instantly met with live roasts from all of the veteran drafters. Allen has been 18th and 30th overall in my half-PPR fantasy points over replacement per game metric in four straight seasons, but this was more of a supply-and-demand **** ysis done by the rest of the league.
#went #here
You can watch the full draft here.
Everyone in the room expressed nervousness about missing out on RBs. This was evident as high as third overall, when Justin Boone drafted Jonathan Taylor, even though it disagreed with his own and everyone's raw rankings. He knew (and was right) that the RB options at the Round 2/3 turn were going to be ugly, and he didn't want to go Zero RB.
Ditto for Scott Pianowski when he took Kyren Williams at 2.07 over literally any of the WRs in the Round 2 tier. Travis Etienne Jr. went 3.02, and Javonte Williams went 3.05. I've seen those players in the fourth round more often than the third round, but in a room full of full-time fantasy **** ysts, the RBs went at a premium early on.
Josh Allen went at 3.07. That's even after his Yahoo ADP, but his selection was instantly met with live roasts from all of the veteran drafters. Allen has been 18th and 30th overall in my half-PPR fantasy points over replacement per game metric in four straight seasons, but this was more of a supply-and-demand **** ysis done by the rest of the league.
#went #here
15 days ago
The full-back has joined French top-flight club OGC Nice until the end of the season. The deal does not include a purchase option.
Eintracht Frankfurt have agreed to loan full-back Niels Nkounkou to French top-flight club OGC Nice until the end of the 2026/27 campaign. The deal does not include a purchase option.
Nkounkou has made 63 appearances in all competitions for Eintracht since moving to Frankfurt from AS St.-Étienne three years ago, registering three goals and three ******* ists in that time. The Frenchman, who spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan at Torino FC and who remains under contract at Eintracht until 2028, was involved in the majority of the Eagles' pre-season preparations and training camps this summer.
Sporting director Timmo Hardung: "We hope Niels rediscovers his form of old and gets regular playing time in France. We're currently unable to guarantee him the game time needed to do so here, which is why we're convinced that Nice is the right place for him to continue his development in a good environment."
#nice #french #niels
Eintracht Frankfurt have agreed to loan full-back Niels Nkounkou to French top-flight club OGC Nice until the end of the 2026/27 campaign. The deal does not include a purchase option.
Nkounkou has made 63 appearances in all competitions for Eintracht since moving to Frankfurt from AS St.-Étienne three years ago, registering three goals and three ******* ists in that time. The Frenchman, who spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan at Torino FC and who remains under contract at Eintracht until 2028, was involved in the majority of the Eagles' pre-season preparations and training camps this summer.
Sporting director Timmo Hardung: "We hope Niels rediscovers his form of old and gets regular playing time in France. We're currently unable to guarantee him the game time needed to do so here, which is why we're convinced that Nice is the right place for him to continue his development in a good environment."
#nice #french #niels
16 days ago
Compared to last year's initial 53-man roster, the Jacksonville Jaguars have a number of newcomers on this year's initial 53.
The first change is at the quarterback position, with Quinn Ewers now listed as the backup, whereas last season it was Nick Mullens. With the departure of Travis Etienne Jr, the running back room has also changed with additions Chris Rodriguez and Ameer Abdullah.
At wide receiver, Jakobi Meyers was not on the initial roster last season because Jacksonville traded for him mid-season. Besides Meyers, there are two other additions in the wide receiver room - CJ Williams and Josh Cameron. Williams and Cameron are both rookies the Jaguars drafted in the sixth round.
The tight end position is also much different. Jacksonville had three tight ends last year, and Brenton Strange is the only one of those three who is still on the roster. The Jaguars now have four tight ends, with their three new additions being Nate Boerkircher, Tanner Koziel, and Quintin Morris. Boerkircher was the Jaguars' second-round pick in this most recent draft, while Koziel was a fifth-rounder. Morris started last season on Jacksonville's practice squad but was later elevated to the active roster and played in 14 games last season.
On the offensive line, there are two new additions - rookie third-round pick Emmanuel Pregnon, who is expected to be the starting left guard, and Daniel Faalele, who spent the past four years with the Baltimore Ravens and is expected to be a depth piece for the Jaguars.
#jaguars #season #additions #round
The first change is at the quarterback position, with Quinn Ewers now listed as the backup, whereas last season it was Nick Mullens. With the departure of Travis Etienne Jr, the running back room has also changed with additions Chris Rodriguez and Ameer Abdullah.
At wide receiver, Jakobi Meyers was not on the initial roster last season because Jacksonville traded for him mid-season. Besides Meyers, there are two other additions in the wide receiver room - CJ Williams and Josh Cameron. Williams and Cameron are both rookies the Jaguars drafted in the sixth round.
The tight end position is also much different. Jacksonville had three tight ends last year, and Brenton Strange is the only one of those three who is still on the roster. The Jaguars now have four tight ends, with their three new additions being Nate Boerkircher, Tanner Koziel, and Quintin Morris. Boerkircher was the Jaguars' second-round pick in this most recent draft, while Koziel was a fifth-rounder. Morris started last season on Jacksonville's practice squad but was later elevated to the active roster and played in 14 games last season.
On the offensive line, there are two new additions - rookie third-round pick Emmanuel Pregnon, who is expected to be the starting left guard, and Daniel Faalele, who spent the past four years with the Baltimore Ravens and is expected to be a depth piece for the Jaguars.
#jaguars #season #additions #round
20 days ago
VfL Bochum 1848 has bid farewell to Ibrahim Sissoko who has completed his transfer to Muğlaspor in the Turkish TFF 1. Lig.
Along with the side from the second highest division in Türkiye, Bochum have agreed to keep the transfer details confidential.
Ibrahim Sissoko initially joined Bochum from AS Saint-Étienne in France in the summer of 2025 after his contract expired.
The eight-time Mali international only made six appearances in total for Bochum, scoring one goal in the 2. Bundesliga last season.
Bochum released a statement that wished the 30-year-old all the best for the future and much success in his new challenge.
#along
Along with the side from the second highest division in Türkiye, Bochum have agreed to keep the transfer details confidential.
Ibrahim Sissoko initially joined Bochum from AS Saint-Étienne in France in the summer of 2025 after his contract expired.
The eight-time Mali international only made six appearances in total for Bochum, scoring one goal in the 2. Bundesliga last season.
Bochum released a statement that wished the 30-year-old all the best for the future and much success in his new challenge.
#along
23 days ago
Saints quietly make late-night trade with 49ers for ex-Raiders fourth-round RB originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New Orleans Saints made some huge upgrades to the roster this offseason, one of those being the big free-agent signing of Travis Etienne Jr.
He's now the starter, and Alvin Kamara is the RB2, with Keandre Miller the third-string RB. But after adding Etienne, this room got a bit crowded. And yet, the Saints reportedly added another back late on Sunday night.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Saints traded linebacker Deion Jones to the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for Zamir White. This is an interesting addition for the Saints, as it might reveal where a few of their injured tailbacks stand.
"Trade: the Saints are sending veteran LB Deion Jones to San Francisco in exchange for RB Zamir White, per sources," Schefter reports.
#deion #francisco #trade
The New Orleans Saints made some huge upgrades to the roster this offseason, one of those being the big free-agent signing of Travis Etienne Jr.
He's now the starter, and Alvin Kamara is the RB2, with Keandre Miller the third-string RB. But after adding Etienne, this room got a bit crowded. And yet, the Saints reportedly added another back late on Sunday night.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Saints traded linebacker Deion Jones to the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for Zamir White. This is an interesting addition for the Saints, as it might reveal where a few of their injured tailbacks stand.
"Trade: the Saints are sending veteran LB Deion Jones to San Francisco in exchange for RB Zamir White, per sources," Schefter reports.
#deion #francisco #trade
23 days ago
Elye Wahi touched down in Nice late last night ahead of his loan move to Le Gym from Eintracht Frankfurt. The Ivory Coast international also spent last season on loan at OGC Nice.
Fans gathered at Nice Airport late on Sunday night to welcome Wahi. The former Olympique de Marseille, RC Lens, and Montpellier HSC forward spent the second half of last season on loan at the Allianz Riviera. It was his goals that ultimately kept the club in Ligue 1. After netting in the promotion/ relegation playoff against AS Saint-Étienne, keeping Nice in the top flight, Wahi gave an interview in which he was very emotional and grateful to the club.
However, due to Nice's finances, it was not possible to include a buy option. Another loan move would be beyond Nice, it was thought, however, they have succeeded in reaching an agreement with their German counterparts. Wahi has arrived on the Côte d'Azur ahead of his medical. This time, his loan will include a buy option valued at €15m, Nice-Matin understands.
Speaking in a press conference attended by Get French Football News on Saturday night, following a 0-0 draw against FC Lorient, Olivier Pantaloni said that he was "impatient to have a signing" in attack. He added that he would be having talks with his superiors to understand the status of any deal(s). And just hours later, Wahi is in Nice and expected to complete a return.
GFFN | Luke Entwistle – reporting from Nice
#late #ahead #move
Fans gathered at Nice Airport late on Sunday night to welcome Wahi. The former Olympique de Marseille, RC Lens, and Montpellier HSC forward spent the second half of last season on loan at the Allianz Riviera. It was his goals that ultimately kept the club in Ligue 1. After netting in the promotion/ relegation playoff against AS Saint-Étienne, keeping Nice in the top flight, Wahi gave an interview in which he was very emotional and grateful to the club.
However, due to Nice's finances, it was not possible to include a buy option. Another loan move would be beyond Nice, it was thought, however, they have succeeded in reaching an agreement with their German counterparts. Wahi has arrived on the Côte d'Azur ahead of his medical. This time, his loan will include a buy option valued at €15m, Nice-Matin understands.
Speaking in a press conference attended by Get French Football News on Saturday night, following a 0-0 draw against FC Lorient, Olivier Pantaloni said that he was "impatient to have a signing" in attack. He added that he would be having talks with his superiors to understand the status of any deal(s). And just hours later, Wahi is in Nice and expected to complete a return.
GFFN | Luke Entwistle – reporting from Nice
#late #ahead #move
25 days ago
Preseason is only the preseason. But for some players, it's a matter of life or death . . . or at least a matter of making a roster.
The Carolina Panthers' 34-17 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars on Friday night may have livened the cases for a number of individuals—whether they're fighting for a job or a spot on the Week 1 program.
Here are six players who improved their stock during the team's victorious stop at EverBank Stadium . . .
The preseason has been a mostly quiet affair for the Panthers' running backs, at least outside of garbage time. They finally got an exception to the rule tonight, with second-year back Trevor Etienne.
Etienne flashed as a returner, picking up 15 yards on a punt and 34 on a kickoff. He was also efficient on the ground, totaling 24 yards on five carries in the first half.
#etienne #matter #carolina #jaguars
The Carolina Panthers' 34-17 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars on Friday night may have livened the cases for a number of individuals—whether they're fighting for a job or a spot on the Week 1 program.
Here are six players who improved their stock during the team's victorious stop at EverBank Stadium . . .
The preseason has been a mostly quiet affair for the Panthers' running backs, at least outside of garbage time. They finally got an exception to the rule tonight, with second-year back Trevor Etienne.
Etienne flashed as a returner, picking up 15 yards on a punt and 34 on a kickoff. He was also efficient on the ground, totaling 24 yards on five carries in the first half.
#etienne #matter #carolina #jaguars
29 days ago
As far as preseason performances go, the Carolina Panthers' showing in Buffalo on Saturday couldn't have gone much worse.
The 29-14 loss looked rougher on the field than it did on the scoreboard, as both starting units faltered throughout the first quarter. Carolina's already-battered offensive line couldn't do much for the ground game—as running backs Jonathon Brooks, Trevor Etienne and Miles Davis all averaged fewer than 2.0 yards per carry.
Quarterback Bryce Young also suffered as a result of the make-do trench, as he was often hurried through his progressions and wound up completing three of his five passes for 18 yards. As a whole, the starting offense went three and out, three and out and three and out on all three of their possessions.
If this is how the 2026 season is going to go, the Panthers could make a huge mistake and wind up blaming Young for their issues. In ESPN's new Future Power Rankings, ***** yst Louis Riddick warned them against this:
Quarterback Bryce Young had some singularly great games in 2025 (see: Week 13 win over the Rams) when he showed he was cool under pressure. He needs help to continue his development trajectory, but 2026 could be rough given the health of the offensive line and lack of a dependable WR2 behind McMillan. That could cause the organization to ***** ign the blame to Young, and I think that would be inappropriate.
#three #panthers #quarterback #line
The 29-14 loss looked rougher on the field than it did on the scoreboard, as both starting units faltered throughout the first quarter. Carolina's already-battered offensive line couldn't do much for the ground game—as running backs Jonathon Brooks, Trevor Etienne and Miles Davis all averaged fewer than 2.0 yards per carry.
Quarterback Bryce Young also suffered as a result of the make-do trench, as he was often hurried through his progressions and wound up completing three of his five passes for 18 yards. As a whole, the starting offense went three and out, three and out and three and out on all three of their possessions.
If this is how the 2026 season is going to go, the Panthers could make a huge mistake and wind up blaming Young for their issues. In ESPN's new Future Power Rankings, ***** yst Louis Riddick warned them against this:
Quarterback Bryce Young had some singularly great games in 2025 (see: Week 13 win over the Rams) when he showed he was cool under pressure. He needs help to continue his development trajectory, but 2026 could be rough given the health of the offensive line and lack of a dependable WR2 behind McMillan. That could cause the organization to ***** ign the blame to Young, and I think that would be inappropriate.
#three #panthers #quarterback #line
29 days ago
Saints get brutal two-month injury update on Jordyn Tyson originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New Orleans Saints made it a goal of theirs this offseason to build the offense around Tyler Shough. They added Travis Etienne Jr. in free agency, and then in Round 1 of the NFL Draft, they took Jordyn Tyson.
With the No. 8 pick, the Saints drafted Tyson to join Chris Olave in the wide receiver room. It was a bit of a risky pick with Tyson's injury history, but the upside is massive.
Unfortunately for the Saints, the worst fears have come true. According to Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football, Tyson's hamstring injury is a serious one, and he's going to miss potentially upwards of two months with this issue.
"Jordyn Tyson is likely to miss time to start the season, possibly deep into September, per source," Underhill reports. "Different hamstring than last time but it's going to take time."
#injury
The New Orleans Saints made it a goal of theirs this offseason to build the offense around Tyler Shough. They added Travis Etienne Jr. in free agency, and then in Round 1 of the NFL Draft, they took Jordyn Tyson.
With the No. 8 pick, the Saints drafted Tyson to join Chris Olave in the wide receiver room. It was a bit of a risky pick with Tyson's injury history, but the upside is massive.
Unfortunately for the Saints, the worst fears have come true. According to Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football, Tyson's hamstring injury is a serious one, and he's going to miss potentially upwards of two months with this issue.
"Jordyn Tyson is likely to miss time to start the season, possibly deep into September, per source," Underhill reports. "Different hamstring than last time but it's going to take time."
#injury
1 month ago
Kyrie Irving appears ready for his much anticipated return in the 2026-27 NBA season. The Dallas Mavericks star guard impressed during a recent open run and showed no signs of being hampered by his ACL injury.
He showed off his handles and finished layups with his signature flare. Irving also showcased his speed and ball control by eluding defenders off the dribble and in the air with tough finishes.
MORE: Stephen A. Smith vows to 'do better' after past criticism of Kyrie Irving
The nine-time All-Star played against some NBA players and other professionals like Kyle Anderson, Eli Carter and Tyson Etienne, among others.
Dallas traded for Irving on Feb. 6, 2023, and he has suited up for team in 108 regular-season games. He suffered a torn ACL on March 3, 2025, missing the entire 2025-26 season. However, he is back to 100% and will form a dynamic duo with reigning NBA Rookie of the Year Cooper Flagg.
#dallas #star #kyle
He showed off his handles and finished layups with his signature flare. Irving also showcased his speed and ball control by eluding defenders off the dribble and in the air with tough finishes.
MORE: Stephen A. Smith vows to 'do better' after past criticism of Kyrie Irving
The nine-time All-Star played against some NBA players and other professionals like Kyle Anderson, Eli Carter and Tyson Etienne, among others.
Dallas traded for Irving on Feb. 6, 2023, and he has suited up for team in 108 regular-season games. He suffered a torn ACL on March 3, 2025, missing the entire 2025-26 season. However, he is back to 100% and will form a dynamic duo with reigning NBA Rookie of the Year Cooper Flagg.
#dallas #star #kyle
1 month ago
The Carolina Panthers' starting offense ended their day against the Buffalo Bills on Saturday with a resounding thud. Quarterback Bryce Young managed just 18 yards in the first half on five pass attempts, with the unit failing to pick up a single first down on any of their three possessions.
Fortunately, the second-string offense proved a little more lively—albeit against backups for Buffalo's defense. In his first possession of the game, backup quarterback Kenny Pickett led a 10-play, 83-yard touchdown drive to get Carolina on the scoreboard just before the break.
Along the way, Pickett completed 11-yard passes to running back Trevor Etienne and wide receiver Jimmy Horn Jr. The Bills helped with a 15-yard face mask penalty, as Pickett got clobbered by several defenders at once.
Pickett finished the drive with a well-placed ball to wide receiver Ja'seem Reed on a slant route.
Pickett ended the first half having completed all three of his throws for 28 yards and a 145.1 passer rating.
#quarterback #offense #ended
Fortunately, the second-string offense proved a little more lively—albeit against backups for Buffalo's defense. In his first possession of the game, backup quarterback Kenny Pickett led a 10-play, 83-yard touchdown drive to get Carolina on the scoreboard just before the break.
Along the way, Pickett completed 11-yard passes to running back Trevor Etienne and wide receiver Jimmy Horn Jr. The Bills helped with a 15-yard face mask penalty, as Pickett got clobbered by several defenders at once.
Pickett finished the drive with a well-placed ball to wide receiver Ja'seem Reed on a slant route.
Pickett ended the first half having completed all three of his throws for 28 yards and a 145.1 passer rating.
#quarterback #offense #ended
1 month ago
We're almost there -- the New Orleans Saints released their first unofficial depth chart ahead of Saturday's preseason game with the Jacksonville Jaguars, and for the most part, it's what you expect. The starting offensive line looks like what we've seen at training camp. It's the same pecking order at running back with Kendre Miller at RB3, even while he's missed several days of practice reps with an injury. Backups like Audric Estime and Devin Neal need to do more with their own reps to unseat him (and in Neal's case, also get healthy). But there are some points of note and takeaways from this first depth chart. It's important to remember this is an unofficial document made for media purposes, not a set-in-stone reflection of how the team is operating at practice every day. Coaches are going to stack some of these positions differently.
And here is what we learned:
There isn't much of a buffer between Simpkins (an undrafted free agent last year) and Wright (a rookie fourth-round pick) and the opportunity to play under the bright lights. Both backups are listed on the second-string offense behind Erik McCoy and Cesar Ruiz, respectively. And that's before Dillon Radunz goes on injured reserve. The Saints listed Radunz as the backup left guard but he's been practicing ahead of Wright until his recent knee injury. We may see William Sherman get the nod in a pinch, but look for Wright to log a ton of snaps this preseason.
This may not be too surprising if you've been keeping up with the daily highlight reels from practice, but being drafted in Round 6 doesn't mean you're a slam dunk to make the team. Brown followed that up by making some big catches in team drills, routinely getting open in one-on-one sessions, and standing out during special teams periods. He's listed as the immediate backup behind Chris Olave on the second-team offense as well the primary returner on both punts and kickoffs. He's still behind Jordyn Tyson and Devaughn Vele, sure. Brown is on the fast track to not just make the 53-man roster but to see meaningful snaps on Sundays.
The workload for respected veterans like Cameron Jordan and Alvin Kamara has been obvious. Jordan practiced with the second-string defense behind Chase Young and Carl Granderson (before his hamstring injury flared up) while Kamara mainly worked in passing situations and third downs with Travis Etienne Jr. seeing early-down work. Both of them have taken a backseat to new arrivals and younger teammates. But that isn't reflected on this unofficial depth chart. Jordan is listed as a starter with Young "or" Granderson starting at the other edge rusher spot. Kamara has the same "or" designation with Etienne. It's a symbol of respect for the vets but it doesn't reflect the team's plans for them. Young and Etienne are going to play as many snaps as they can handle.
#wright
And here is what we learned:
There isn't much of a buffer between Simpkins (an undrafted free agent last year) and Wright (a rookie fourth-round pick) and the opportunity to play under the bright lights. Both backups are listed on the second-string offense behind Erik McCoy and Cesar Ruiz, respectively. And that's before Dillon Radunz goes on injured reserve. The Saints listed Radunz as the backup left guard but he's been practicing ahead of Wright until his recent knee injury. We may see William Sherman get the nod in a pinch, but look for Wright to log a ton of snaps this preseason.
This may not be too surprising if you've been keeping up with the daily highlight reels from practice, but being drafted in Round 6 doesn't mean you're a slam dunk to make the team. Brown followed that up by making some big catches in team drills, routinely getting open in one-on-one sessions, and standing out during special teams periods. He's listed as the immediate backup behind Chris Olave on the second-team offense as well the primary returner on both punts and kickoffs. He's still behind Jordyn Tyson and Devaughn Vele, sure. Brown is on the fast track to not just make the 53-man roster but to see meaningful snaps on Sundays.
The workload for respected veterans like Cameron Jordan and Alvin Kamara has been obvious. Jordan practiced with the second-string defense behind Chase Young and Carl Granderson (before his hamstring injury flared up) while Kamara mainly worked in passing situations and third downs with Travis Etienne Jr. seeing early-down work. Both of them have taken a backseat to new arrivals and younger teammates. But that isn't reflected on this unofficial depth chart. Jordan is listed as a starter with Young "or" Granderson starting at the other edge rusher spot. Kamara has the same "or" designation with Etienne. It's a symbol of respect for the vets but it doesn't reflect the team's plans for them. Young and Etienne are going to play as many snaps as they can handle.
#wright
1 month ago
The future of French football?
This Saturday evening, Ligue 2 returns with an enticing multiplex.
As every year, plenty of talents are just waiting to make their mark in the antechamber of French football.
So here's a quick overview of the gems to watch this season.
Already impressive with AS Saint-Étienne last season, the young right-back is hoping to play a major role in Les Verts' push for promotion.
#ligue #saint #verts
This Saturday evening, Ligue 2 returns with an enticing multiplex.
As every year, plenty of talents are just waiting to make their mark in the antechamber of French football.
So here's a quick overview of the gems to watch this season.
Already impressive with AS Saint-Étienne last season, the young right-back is hoping to play a major role in Les Verts' push for promotion.
#ligue #saint #verts
1 month ago
Where to watch Saints preseason games 2026: Full schedule, times, TV channels, live streams for New Orleans originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Saints head into the 2026 preseason with second-year quarterback Tyler Shough officially taking the reins as the full-time starter. Shough provided a noticeable spark late in 2025 after taking over for Spencer Rattler and should be able to build on his performance with second-year head coach Kellen Moore.
The pressure is on Shough to produce quickly, especially after the first-round selection of receiver Jordyn Tyson and free-agent pickup Travis Etienne
The Saints will be without Demario Davis in the middle of the defense but did get Cam Jordan back for another year.
New Orleans hopes it can turn a late-season surge from a year ago into a division-winning formula early this season.
#preseason #head
The Saints head into the 2026 preseason with second-year quarterback Tyler Shough officially taking the reins as the full-time starter. Shough provided a noticeable spark late in 2025 after taking over for Spencer Rattler and should be able to build on his performance with second-year head coach Kellen Moore.
The pressure is on Shough to produce quickly, especially after the first-round selection of receiver Jordyn Tyson and free-agent pickup Travis Etienne
The Saints will be without Demario Davis in the middle of the defense but did get Cam Jordan back for another year.
New Orleans hopes it can turn a late-season surge from a year ago into a division-winning formula early this season.
#preseason #head
1 month ago
2 Saints training camp battles fantasy football managers must have their eye on appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Every fantasy football season is shaped by a handful of training camp battles that quietly determine league-winning value before Week 1 ever kicks off. Savvy fantasy managers know that the biggest draft bargains often emerge from unsettled depth charts. The New Orleans Saints enter the 2026 season with a promising young quarterback under center and an influx of offensive talent. They have a coaching staff intent on creating fierce competition throughout the roster. As such, opportunities abound for players who can seize meaningful snaps. Two position battles, in particular, have the potential to dramatically reshape fantasy draft boards.
Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
The Saints spent the offseason restructuring its offensive identity. Their main goal was to accelerate their transition into a new era built around quarterback Tyler Shough.
The front office made one of its boldest moves by signing Travis Etienne Jr to a lucrative four-year contract. That immediately injects explosive speed into the backfield while simultaneously restructuring Alvin Kamara's contract to preserve roster flexibility.
#battles #clutchpoints #season
Every fantasy football season is shaped by a handful of training camp battles that quietly determine league-winning value before Week 1 ever kicks off. Savvy fantasy managers know that the biggest draft bargains often emerge from unsettled depth charts. The New Orleans Saints enter the 2026 season with a promising young quarterback under center and an influx of offensive talent. They have a coaching staff intent on creating fierce competition throughout the roster. As such, opportunities abound for players who can seize meaningful snaps. Two position battles, in particular, have the potential to dramatically reshape fantasy draft boards.
Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
The Saints spent the offseason restructuring its offensive identity. Their main goal was to accelerate their transition into a new era built around quarterback Tyler Shough.
The front office made one of its boldest moves by signing Travis Etienne Jr to a lucrative four-year contract. That immediately injects explosive speed into the backfield while simultaneously restructuring Alvin Kamara's contract to preserve roster flexibility.
#battles #clutchpoints #season
1 month ago
The Jacksonville Jaguars had things go just about as well as they possibly could in their first season under Liam Coen in 2025 – and part of that had to do with the performance by Travis Etienne at running back.
Etienne posted 1,107 rushing yards and seven touchdowns for the Jaguars this past season, but now the franchise will need to look for a new star running back, as Etienne is off to join the New Orleans Saints. The powers that be in Jacksonville likely are hoping that player will be Bhayshul Tuten, who the Jaguars selected in the 2025 NFL Draft.
And it appears that Tuten also has serious designs on not only being the top back for the Jaguars, but one of the best players at his position in the league. Reports out of Jacksonville indicate that Tuten expects to be the starter all season long and is targeting 1,500 yards and 16 touchdowns for his final stat line.
If Tuten is able to make these numbers happen, he would without a doubt be among the best rushers in the NFL this coming year. These numbers would have placed him fourth overall in the league in rushing yards and tied for second in rushing touchdowns in 2025. But he has a way to go to get there: in 15 games this past season, he managed just 307 yards and five touchdowns.
This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Rising AFC South RB could post breakout season by reaching 2026 goals
#tuten #etienne #back #running
Etienne posted 1,107 rushing yards and seven touchdowns for the Jaguars this past season, but now the franchise will need to look for a new star running back, as Etienne is off to join the New Orleans Saints. The powers that be in Jacksonville likely are hoping that player will be Bhayshul Tuten, who the Jaguars selected in the 2025 NFL Draft.
And it appears that Tuten also has serious designs on not only being the top back for the Jaguars, but one of the best players at his position in the league. Reports out of Jacksonville indicate that Tuten expects to be the starter all season long and is targeting 1,500 yards and 16 touchdowns for his final stat line.
If Tuten is able to make these numbers happen, he would without a doubt be among the best rushers in the NFL this coming year. These numbers would have placed him fourth overall in the league in rushing yards and tied for second in rushing touchdowns in 2025. But he has a way to go to get there: in 15 games this past season, he managed just 307 yards and five touchdowns.
This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Rising AFC South RB could post breakout season by reaching 2026 goals
#tuten #etienne #back #running
1 month ago
The New Orleans Saints are still in the early stages of training camp, but one of the team's newest additions, former Buffalo Bills guard David Edwards, believes the offense is already beginning to establish its identity on the ground.
Speaking with the media after practice, the veteran offensive lineman said the biggest strength of the Saints' backfield is that every running back brings something different, giving the coaching staff plenty of options when building the rushing attack.
He pointed to new Saints running back Travis Etienne Jr. as a player whose patience separates him.
"I think the beauty of Travis is his ability to start and stop and kind of have this patience behind the line of scrimmage as well as at the line of scrimmage," he said. "Then make a decision and go is really special and unique."
He also praised Alvin Kamara's ability to change a game with one touch.
#travis #back #buffalo
Speaking with the media after practice, the veteran offensive lineman said the biggest strength of the Saints' backfield is that every running back brings something different, giving the coaching staff plenty of options when building the rushing attack.
He pointed to new Saints running back Travis Etienne Jr. as a player whose patience separates him.
"I think the beauty of Travis is his ability to start and stop and kind of have this patience behind the line of scrimmage as well as at the line of scrimmage," he said. "Then make a decision and go is really special and unique."
He also praised Alvin Kamara's ability to change a game with one touch.
#travis #back #buffalo
2 months ago
DETROIT, MICHIGAN - OCTOBER 16: Chaz Lanier #20 of the Detroit Pistons tries to drive around Will Riley #27 of the Washington Wizards in the second half during a preseason game at Little Caesars Arena on October 16, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) Getty
DETROIT, MICHIGAN - OCTOBER 16: Chaz Lanier #20 of the Detroit Pistons plays against the Washington Wizards during a preseason game at Little Caesars Arena on October 16, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) Getty
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 07: John Collins #20 of the Los Angeles Clippers goes to the basket against John Poulakidas #1 and Ryan Nembhard #9 of the Dallas Mavericks during the first quarter of the NBA game at Intuit Dome on April 07, 2026 in Inglewood, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images) Getty
As the Detroit Pistons prepare for the 2026-2027 NBA season, their second-year guard decided to make a change, doing a favor for the team's new addition.
According to Etienne Catalan, Chaz Lanier is giving up No. 20 to his new teammate, John Collins.
#getty #michigan #lanier #pistons
DETROIT, MICHIGAN - OCTOBER 16: Chaz Lanier #20 of the Detroit Pistons plays against the Washington Wizards during a preseason game at Little Caesars Arena on October 16, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) Getty
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 07: John Collins #20 of the Los Angeles Clippers goes to the basket against John Poulakidas #1 and Ryan Nembhard #9 of the Dallas Mavericks during the first quarter of the NBA game at Intuit Dome on April 07, 2026 in Inglewood, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images) Getty
As the Detroit Pistons prepare for the 2026-2027 NBA season, their second-year guard decided to make a change, doing a favor for the team's new addition.
According to Etienne Catalan, Chaz Lanier is giving up No. 20 to his new teammate, John Collins.
#getty #michigan #lanier #pistons
2 months ago
As head coach Liam Coen pointed out, it's all about consistency in Year 2 under his tutelage. It certainly helps that the Jaguars are returning nearly their entire offense, Travis Etienne aside. It's especially key at the quarterback and receiver positions, offering Trevor Lawrence the chance to further connect and build relationships with his wideouts.
To close out last season, the Jaguars' passing attack was about the best in the business. Lawrence threw for nearly 2,400 yards and 20 touchdowns after the bye, including 36 explosive gains. All three of those figures ranked inside the Top-5 at the position.
Part of what made the Jaguars particularly dangerous down the stretch was that opposing teams just never knew which receiver would be the one to take over the game any given week. In 2025, the Jaguars had six different receivers lead the team in yards across the season, four of whom did so three or more times.
Lawrence spoke on that very thing in a recent interview with Action Sports Jax's Brent Martineau and Austen Lane.
"It's a huge weapon for an offense to be balanced. There's a lot of great receivers in this league and a lot of good offenses, but as far as the balance that we have, I think we are up there at the top of the league," said Lawrence.
#lawrence #yards #receivers
To close out last season, the Jaguars' passing attack was about the best in the business. Lawrence threw for nearly 2,400 yards and 20 touchdowns after the bye, including 36 explosive gains. All three of those figures ranked inside the Top-5 at the position.
Part of what made the Jaguars particularly dangerous down the stretch was that opposing teams just never knew which receiver would be the one to take over the game any given week. In 2025, the Jaguars had six different receivers lead the team in yards across the season, four of whom did so three or more times.
Lawrence spoke on that very thing in a recent interview with Action Sports Jax's Brent Martineau and Austen Lane.
"It's a huge weapon for an offense to be balanced. There's a lot of great receivers in this league and a lot of good offenses, but as far as the balance that we have, I think we are up there at the top of the league," said Lawrence.
#lawrence #yards #receivers
2 months ago
Last season, the New Orleans Saints were reportedly fielding trade offers for Chris Olave. Now they've made him one of the NFL's highest paid wide receivers.
Olave, headed into the final year of his rookie contract, reportedly signed a four-year extension that will keep him as Tyler Shough's huckleberry through the foreseeable future. At $132 million and $90 million guaranteed, it wasn't able to reset the wideout market but pays him slightly more in annual average salary than former Ohio State teammate Garrett Wilson. The New York Jets gave Wilson a four-year, $130 million deal last offseason, making him the league's seventh-highest paid WR.
It's a big bet on a player who has emerged as an engine in the Saints offense when available. The Saints are locked in to $90 million for a receiver coming off his finest season. His 100 catches were seventh-best in the NFL en route to second-team All-Pro honors. But he also missed more than half the 2024 season due to concussion concerns and his 2.0 yards per route run (YPRR) were a career low. Will the Saints regret a great commitment for a player who may merely be good?
This offseason has been predicated on bringing weapons into the fold as New Orleans figures out whether Shough's ability to exceed expectations as a rookie was an outlier or a sign of things to come. The Saints signed running back Travis Etienne for $12 million annually and used the eighth overall pick of the 2026 NFL Draft on Jordyn Tyson. Keeping Olave fits with that philosophy.
At the same time, it's fair to wonder if Olave can keep up his 2025 pace when he's not the surefire focus of the offense. Last year's New Orleans offense couldn't run the ball (31st in rushing expected points added). Only two other players on the team had more than 40 targets and one, Rashid Shaheed, was traded mid-season. His target share of just under 30 percent was a career high and his 8.7 air yards per catch were a career low, leading to modest impacts despite his prolific nature.
#year #wilson
Olave, headed into the final year of his rookie contract, reportedly signed a four-year extension that will keep him as Tyler Shough's huckleberry through the foreseeable future. At $132 million and $90 million guaranteed, it wasn't able to reset the wideout market but pays him slightly more in annual average salary than former Ohio State teammate Garrett Wilson. The New York Jets gave Wilson a four-year, $130 million deal last offseason, making him the league's seventh-highest paid WR.
It's a big bet on a player who has emerged as an engine in the Saints offense when available. The Saints are locked in to $90 million for a receiver coming off his finest season. His 100 catches were seventh-best in the NFL en route to second-team All-Pro honors. But he also missed more than half the 2024 season due to concussion concerns and his 2.0 yards per route run (YPRR) were a career low. Will the Saints regret a great commitment for a player who may merely be good?
This offseason has been predicated on bringing weapons into the fold as New Orleans figures out whether Shough's ability to exceed expectations as a rookie was an outlier or a sign of things to come. The Saints signed running back Travis Etienne for $12 million annually and used the eighth overall pick of the 2026 NFL Draft on Jordyn Tyson. Keeping Olave fits with that philosophy.
At the same time, it's fair to wonder if Olave can keep up his 2025 pace when he's not the surefire focus of the offense. Last year's New Orleans offense couldn't run the ball (31st in rushing expected points added). Only two other players on the team had more than 40 targets and one, Rashid Shaheed, was traded mid-season. His target share of just under 30 percent was a career high and his 8.7 air yards per catch were a career low, leading to modest impacts despite his prolific nature.
#year #wilson
2 months ago
The Jacksonville Jaguars had their first day of training camp, and before it even started, all eyes were on running back Bhayshul Tuten. With Travis Etienne having left in free agency, Tuten is the presumed RB1, but he has competition in LeQuint Allen and Chris Rodriguez, particularly the latter. What will happen in the Jaguars running back room has been one of the biggest storylines surrounding training camp.
Tuten had an immediate leg up over Rodriguez, who suffered an offseason foot injury and had to undergo surgery, forcing him to miss out on minicamp and OTAs. While Rodriguez has fully recovered, he is being eased back, giving Tuten an early opportunity to prove what he's got. And judging by initial reports from training camp, he didn't waste that chance.
SI.com's John Shipley reported that Tuten not only impressed today at practice, but was the strongest offensive player, period.
"[T]uten got the bulk of the first-team reps with the offense, just like he did during the offseason program. In fact, Tuten was frankly the most impressive offensive player of the entire day considering the sputtering moments the unit had. While other players had some down moments, Tuten produced several big runs and showed the same exciting traits that made him look like an ascending player this spring."
Tuten has put in impressive performances throughout the offseason, and has already been named a potential breakout player for 2026. During his rookie season, Tuten similarly played well enough in training camp that the Jaguars felt comfortable letting Tank Bigsby go, with Tuten taking over at RB2. While Etienne took the majority of snaps on offense, he did well enough nonetheless, gaining 83 carries for 307 yards and five touchdowns with his limited snaps.
#training #rodriguez #first
Tuten had an immediate leg up over Rodriguez, who suffered an offseason foot injury and had to undergo surgery, forcing him to miss out on minicamp and OTAs. While Rodriguez has fully recovered, he is being eased back, giving Tuten an early opportunity to prove what he's got. And judging by initial reports from training camp, he didn't waste that chance.
SI.com's John Shipley reported that Tuten not only impressed today at practice, but was the strongest offensive player, period.
"[T]uten got the bulk of the first-team reps with the offense, just like he did during the offseason program. In fact, Tuten was frankly the most impressive offensive player of the entire day considering the sputtering moments the unit had. While other players had some down moments, Tuten produced several big runs and showed the same exciting traits that made him look like an ascending player this spring."
Tuten has put in impressive performances throughout the offseason, and has already been named a potential breakout player for 2026. During his rookie season, Tuten similarly played well enough in training camp that the Jaguars felt comfortable letting Tank Bigsby go, with Tuten taking over at RB2. While Etienne took the majority of snaps on offense, he did well enough nonetheless, gaining 83 carries for 307 yards and five touchdowns with his limited snaps.
#training #rodriguez #first
2 months ago
The Jacksonville Jaguars had their first training camp practice with new running back Chris Rodriguez in attendance, though head coach Liam Coen said it offered only a small glimpse into what Rodriguez can offer.
Rodriguez missed much of Jacksonville's offseason program while recovering from surgery on a foot injury, delaying his opportunity to begin fighting for a role in the backfield.
The Jaguars signed the former Commanders running back after Travis Etienne departed in free agency, but Rodriguez's value is tied largely to a bruising style that is difficult to evaluate before the pads come on.
"What he brings to this team, I don't think any of us are going to see throughout the entire training camp, honestly," Coen said. "Until we play tackle football, it's going to be very difficult for all of us here to gain a true appreciation for who he is and what he does. I've seen it, so I do appreciate his skill set and what he brings. But just as a pro, he's a good dude. He doesn't say a ton, but he's tough. He's one of those glass-eaters. He is. He's going to run through a wall for his teammates, for his coaches, for this organization when the time comes."
Coen also said it had been difficult for Rodriguez to miss earlier training opportunities in the offseason as he rehabbed from surgery.
#difficult #going #running #back
Rodriguez missed much of Jacksonville's offseason program while recovering from surgery on a foot injury, delaying his opportunity to begin fighting for a role in the backfield.
The Jaguars signed the former Commanders running back after Travis Etienne departed in free agency, but Rodriguez's value is tied largely to a bruising style that is difficult to evaluate before the pads come on.
"What he brings to this team, I don't think any of us are going to see throughout the entire training camp, honestly," Coen said. "Until we play tackle football, it's going to be very difficult for all of us here to gain a true appreciation for who he is and what he does. I've seen it, so I do appreciate his skill set and what he brings. But just as a pro, he's a good dude. He doesn't say a ton, but he's tough. He's one of those glass-eaters. He is. He's going to run through a wall for his teammates, for his coaches, for this organization when the time comes."
Coen also said it had been difficult for Rodriguez to miss earlier training opportunities in the offseason as he rehabbed from surgery.
#difficult #going #running #back
