2 months ago
The Miami Dolphins weren't impressed by their trio of quarterbacks battling to back up Malik Willis this preseason, which led the team to trade Quinn Ewers and cut both Cam Miller and Mark Gronowski over the weekend.
While these moves left Miami without a quarterback, they quickly pivoted and completed a trade with the Green Bay Packers to acquire Kyle McCord, who completed 65.7% of his passes for 446 yards and four touchdowns in the preseason.
Speaking with the media this week, Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst explained the decision to move on from the 23-year-old.
"He played so well during the preseason. We were contemplating, do we keep three? Do we try to get him to the practice squad, what's the likelihood of that? When somebody calls you and starts talking about a trade, the likelihood of getting him to the practice squad probably isn't strong," Gutekunst said. "It's always (tough), whenever you trade a player that you like and you think has an upside, but he wasn't going to be the No. 2 here most likely, and heading into next year, who knows? It's our job to find the next guy, and develop the next guy. That's what we do. That's what we'll do moving forward."
Instead of rolling with McCord as Jordan Love's backup, the Packers took the sixth-round pick they got in return and will have Tyrod Taylor step in if their starter goes down in 2026.
#Miami #gutekunst
While these moves left Miami without a quarterback, they quickly pivoted and completed a trade with the Green Bay Packers to acquire Kyle McCord, who completed 65.7% of his passes for 446 yards and four touchdowns in the preseason.
Speaking with the media this week, Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst explained the decision to move on from the 23-year-old.
"He played so well during the preseason. We were contemplating, do we keep three? Do we try to get him to the practice squad, what's the likelihood of that? When somebody calls you and starts talking about a trade, the likelihood of getting him to the practice squad probably isn't strong," Gutekunst said. "It's always (tough), whenever you trade a player that you like and you think has an upside, but he wasn't going to be the No. 2 here most likely, and heading into next year, who knows? It's our job to find the next guy, and develop the next guy. That's what we do. That's what we'll do moving forward."
Instead of rolling with McCord as Jordan Love's backup, the Packers took the sixth-round pick they got in return and will have Tyrod Taylor step in if their starter goes down in 2026.
#Miami #gutekunst
2 months ago
The Green Bay Packers had little reason to keep Kyle McCord with Jordan Love firmly established as the starter and veteran Tyrod Taylor ahead of him on the depth chart. With limited room in the quarterback room, Green Bay opted to move McCord to the Miami Dolphins rather than keep him buried behind the team's top two options.
The Packers have moved quickly to add another quarterback, bringing a new arm into the practice squad, according to The Athletic's Matt Schneidman.
"Packers are adding Kedon Slovis as QB3 on the practice squad, Gutekunst says. He just played for the Cardinals here on Friday." wrote the NFL insider.
Sep 11, 2022; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love (10) in the huddle against the Minnesota Vikings in the fourth quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
Slovis began his college career at USC before later stops at Pittsburgh and BYU, but he went undrafted in 2024. The Indianapolis Colts gave him a chance as an undrafted free agent, only to release him during their final roster cuts.
#mccord #keep
The Packers have moved quickly to add another quarterback, bringing a new arm into the practice squad, according to The Athletic's Matt Schneidman.
"Packers are adding Kedon Slovis as QB3 on the practice squad, Gutekunst says. He just played for the Cardinals here on Friday." wrote the NFL insider.
Sep 11, 2022; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love (10) in the huddle against the Minnesota Vikings in the fourth quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
Slovis began his college career at USC before later stops at Pittsburgh and BYU, but he went undrafted in 2024. The Indianapolis Colts gave him a chance as an undrafted free agent, only to release him during their final roster cuts.
#mccord #keep
2 months ago
The Miami Dolphins had to clear nearly 40 roster spots this weekend to make sure they were down to 53 players by the league's deadline, but during that process, general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan swung a trade.
On Sunday, Sullivan called up his old team and acquired quarterback Kyle McCord from the Green Bay Packers for a 2028 sixth-round pick. The 23-year-old just completed 65.7% of his passes for 446 yards and four touchdowns in his three preseason appearances.
Speaking to the media on Monday, Sullivan explained his decision to acquire the former Ohio State Buckeye.
"I've always been a fan of his," Sullivan said. "I feel like when you watch the kid play, he's a keep the train on the tracks kind of guy. I think he processes the game quick. I think he throws an accurate catchable football. He runs the offense, and I know he's a smart guy. I know he's a competitive guy. Scouted him in college, obviously followed him and tracked him through the preseason, and I thought he had an opportunity to come in here. We obviously want No. 2 out there, but if something happened, I thought he could run the offense and help give us a chance to win games."
Interestingly, the Dolphins had three other quarterbacks on their roster that they let go of over the weekend, as they released Cam Miller and Mark Gronowski and traded Quinn Ewers, who served as the team's backup last year, to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
#weekend #three #preseason
On Sunday, Sullivan called up his old team and acquired quarterback Kyle McCord from the Green Bay Packers for a 2028 sixth-round pick. The 23-year-old just completed 65.7% of his passes for 446 yards and four touchdowns in his three preseason appearances.
Speaking to the media on Monday, Sullivan explained his decision to acquire the former Ohio State Buckeye.
"I've always been a fan of his," Sullivan said. "I feel like when you watch the kid play, he's a keep the train on the tracks kind of guy. I think he processes the game quick. I think he throws an accurate catchable football. He runs the offense, and I know he's a smart guy. I know he's a competitive guy. Scouted him in college, obviously followed him and tracked him through the preseason, and I thought he had an opportunity to come in here. We obviously want No. 2 out there, but if something happened, I thought he could run the offense and help give us a chance to win games."
Interestingly, the Dolphins had three other quarterbacks on their roster that they let go of over the weekend, as they released Cam Miller and Mark Gronowski and traded Quinn Ewers, who served as the team's backup last year, to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
#weekend #three #preseason
2 months ago
J.J. McCarthy stays on the Vikings 53 — and the injury story still doesn't add up. The Minnesota Vikings set their 53-man roster with J.J. McCarthy still on it, then spent Monday shuffling the edges. On The Real Forno Show, Tyler Forness and Dave Stefano unpacked the leak that McCarthy's ankle is suddenly "week to week," Ben Goessling's report that McCarthy himself chose not to play Friday, the Max Brosmer and Dillon Bell cuts, waiver claims of Trevor Keegan and Nick Samac, and a practice squad still taking shape.
Forness opened with the elephant in the room: he expected Minnesota to move on from McCarthy before the deadline. Then Adam Schefter said on Pat McAfee that the ankle is a multi-week injury — 10 days after the sprain, after McCarthy practiced fully Monday and Tuesday. "I don't buy it for a second," Forness said. "If it really was a multi-week injury… now we're calling it a week-to-week injury after he goes out and practices in full?" Stefano called a grade-one deltoid sprain "100% playable" and asked why sitting Friday or leaking "week to week" would help trade stock. Forness noted other backups (Quinn Ewers, Kyle McCord) already moved for sixth-rounders, and that waiting only shrinks the market. Goessling reported the sit-out was McCarthy's call, not the organization's. "It was him not being comfortable playing in the game," Forness quoted. "The whole thing just smells rotten."
Monday's moves were clearer. Minnesota claimed interior linemen Keegan and Samac after trading Walter Rouse, then waived Brosmer and Bell to make room. Forness said if McCarthy can't go Week 1, Kevin O'Connell will want a third active-roster quarterback because an emergency QB must be on the 53, not the practice squad. They also ran the rest of the roster: four tight ends with T.J. Hockenson in a contract year; Tyler Batty's torn ACL thinning the edge; Caleb Banks as a long-term "unicorn" pick, not a Year 1 finished product. "You drafted him for '27, '29, and '30," Forness said. "Trading him now would be incredibly shortsighted."
J.J. McCarthy saga: McCarthy practiced fully Monday and Tuesday before sitting out Wednesday. He chose not to play Friday's preseason finale despite the plan being for him to start the first half. Trade talks reportedly occurred but no deal materialized. Tyler expects a new quarterback added if McCarthy can't play Week 1.
Offensive line: The Vikings claimed Trevor Keegan (fourth-ranked PFF guard) and Nick Samac (top PFF preseason center), both with center versatility. Walter Rouse was traded for a sixth-round pick. Max Brosmer and Dillon Bell were waived.
#injury #bell
Forness opened with the elephant in the room: he expected Minnesota to move on from McCarthy before the deadline. Then Adam Schefter said on Pat McAfee that the ankle is a multi-week injury — 10 days after the sprain, after McCarthy practiced fully Monday and Tuesday. "I don't buy it for a second," Forness said. "If it really was a multi-week injury… now we're calling it a week-to-week injury after he goes out and practices in full?" Stefano called a grade-one deltoid sprain "100% playable" and asked why sitting Friday or leaking "week to week" would help trade stock. Forness noted other backups (Quinn Ewers, Kyle McCord) already moved for sixth-rounders, and that waiting only shrinks the market. Goessling reported the sit-out was McCarthy's call, not the organization's. "It was him not being comfortable playing in the game," Forness quoted. "The whole thing just smells rotten."
Monday's moves were clearer. Minnesota claimed interior linemen Keegan and Samac after trading Walter Rouse, then waived Brosmer and Bell to make room. Forness said if McCarthy can't go Week 1, Kevin O'Connell will want a third active-roster quarterback because an emergency QB must be on the 53, not the practice squad. They also ran the rest of the roster: four tight ends with T.J. Hockenson in a contract year; Tyler Batty's torn ACL thinning the edge; Caleb Banks as a long-term "unicorn" pick, not a Year 1 finished product. "You drafted him for '27, '29, and '30," Forness said. "Trading him now would be incredibly shortsighted."
J.J. McCarthy saga: McCarthy practiced fully Monday and Tuesday before sitting out Wednesday. He chose not to play Friday's preseason finale despite the plan being for him to start the first half. Trade talks reportedly occurred but no deal materialized. Tyler expects a new quarterback added if McCarthy can't play Week 1.
Offensive line: The Vikings claimed Trevor Keegan (fourth-ranked PFF guard) and Nick Samac (top PFF preseason center), both with center versatility. Walter Rouse was traded for a sixth-round pick. Max Brosmer and Dillon Bell were waived.
#injury #bell
2 months ago
The Green Bay Packers don't have a third quarterback, and that's weird. Half of the NFL kept three players at the position (four of them kept four, if you can believe it) at the cutdown deadline, when rosters shrank from 91 to 53 on Sunday. So for the Packers to have only rostered two players at the position and have no internal option to even add to the practice squad sticks out like a sore thumb, but that's the offset when the Miami Dolphins are willing to give you a draft pick for a guy you signed off the street in January.
I'm sure a lot of you are thinking, "Wait, who am I going to see under center if Jordan Love or Tyrod Taylor ever go down, God forbid?" I don't know the answer to that, but I'm going to throw a couple of options out for you today.
This is probably the least inspired of our options. The Packers signed Kyron Drones to a deal worth $5,000 guaranteed as an undrafted free agent this offseason, and he was beat out for the QB3 job (at least in the summer) by Kyle McCord (who, again, is now a Dolphin). Drones was outright waived by the team — with the Packers not even needing to fill his roster spot for several days — after a four-dropback performance against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the preseason opener. Drones was sacked on three of those plays, including a screen. It seemed like they were just over the experience.
Alright, here's where I did a lot of legwork. We're going to have to use different fonts to mean different things, because I want you to be able to take one glance and understand the full landscape at the position.
Players whose names are bolded were cut from teams that kept three or more quarterbacks. These are the players who are most likely to be available for the Packers, as these teams are less likely to need a practice squad arm for the scout team.
#packers #players #even
I'm sure a lot of you are thinking, "Wait, who am I going to see under center if Jordan Love or Tyrod Taylor ever go down, God forbid?" I don't know the answer to that, but I'm going to throw a couple of options out for you today.
This is probably the least inspired of our options. The Packers signed Kyron Drones to a deal worth $5,000 guaranteed as an undrafted free agent this offseason, and he was beat out for the QB3 job (at least in the summer) by Kyle McCord (who, again, is now a Dolphin). Drones was outright waived by the team — with the Packers not even needing to fill his roster spot for several days — after a four-dropback performance against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the preseason opener. Drones was sacked on three of those plays, including a screen. It seemed like they were just over the experience.
Alright, here's where I did a lot of legwork. We're going to have to use different fonts to mean different things, because I want you to be able to take one glance and understand the full landscape at the position.
Players whose names are bolded were cut from teams that kept three or more quarterbacks. These are the players who are most likely to be available for the Packers, as these teams are less likely to need a practice squad arm for the scout team.
#packers #players #even
2 months ago
GREEN BAY – The Green Bay Packers are trading Kyle McCord to the Miami Dolphins, sources confirmed to PackersNews.
ESPN initially reported the Packers will receive a 2028 sixth-round draft pick.
After trading Quinn Ewers to the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Dolphins needed a backup for ex-Packers quarterback Malik Willis.
This leaves the Packers with Jordan Love leading the quarterback room with veteran Tyrod Taylor as the backup.
(This story will be updated.)
#dolphins #backup #kyle
ESPN initially reported the Packers will receive a 2028 sixth-round draft pick.
After trading Quinn Ewers to the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Dolphins needed a backup for ex-Packers quarterback Malik Willis.
This leaves the Packers with Jordan Love leading the quarterback room with veteran Tyrod Taylor as the backup.
(This story will be updated.)
#dolphins #backup #kyle
2 months ago
Kyle McCord's dazzling preseason with the Green Bay Packers is ending with a trade to South Florida. According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, the Packers are trading the second-year quarterback to the Miami Dolphins in exchange for a sixth-round pick in the 2028 NFL draft.
In Miami, McCord will slot in as the backup quarterback behind former Packers backup Malik Willis.
The Packers, meanwhile, will need to find a third quarterback to develop behind Jordan Love and Tyrod Taylor, the only two quarterbacks left on the roster.
The Packers signed McCord, a 2025 draft pick of the Philadelphia Eagles, to a futures deal in January. He emerged as the third quarterback in training camp and was excellent during the preseason, throwing four touchdown passes without an interception or turnover. He played the entire preseason finale, and he led the Packers back from an 11-point deficit late in the fourth quarter with a pair of touchdown passes to Kisean Johnson.
The trade solves a problem for both the Packers and Dolphins. McCord proved he could play this summer but was stuck behind Taylor, a veteran who was brought in as the top backup. Instead of keeping a third quarterback on the 53-man roster, the Packers are getting a draft pick back for a player in demand. The Dolphins, meanwhile, get to skip the waivers claim process while adding a young developmental quarterback to a young, developing roster under former Packers coach Jeff Hafley.
#packers #dolphins #preseason #behind
In Miami, McCord will slot in as the backup quarterback behind former Packers backup Malik Willis.
The Packers, meanwhile, will need to find a third quarterback to develop behind Jordan Love and Tyrod Taylor, the only two quarterbacks left on the roster.
The Packers signed McCord, a 2025 draft pick of the Philadelphia Eagles, to a futures deal in January. He emerged as the third quarterback in training camp and was excellent during the preseason, throwing four touchdown passes without an interception or turnover. He played the entire preseason finale, and he led the Packers back from an 11-point deficit late in the fourth quarter with a pair of touchdown passes to Kisean Johnson.
The trade solves a problem for both the Packers and Dolphins. McCord proved he could play this summer but was stuck behind Taylor, a veteran who was brought in as the top backup. Instead of keeping a third quarterback on the 53-man roster, the Packers are getting a draft pick back for a player in demand. The Dolphins, meanwhile, get to skip the waivers claim process while adding a young developmental quarterback to a young, developing roster under former Packers coach Jeff Hafley.
#packers #dolphins #preseason #behind
2 months ago
The Green Bay Packers finished the preseason on Friday night at Lambeau Field, and now attention turns to finishing the initial 53-man roster before Sunday afternoon's cutdown. Strong performances during training camp and the preseason will create some difficult choices for Brian Gutekunst and Matt LaFleur in creating the initial roster, which is due by 5:00 p.m. CT on Sunday.
Toughest decisions awaiting the Packers on their path to 53 players:
Matt LaFleur wasn't able to confirm the injury timelines for defensive tackle Warren Brinson, receiver Savion Williams or edge rusher Collin Oliver, who were all injured within the last week and could be candidates to start the season on injured reserve. The roster math changes pretty quick if any of those three miss the start of the season. Any player placed on IR to start the season has to miss at least the first four games.
To his credit, Kyle McCord turned this into a legitimate question over three excellent preseason games. Tyrod Taylor is going to be the backup behind Jordan Love, but are the Packers willing to risk McCord to waivers? He looks like the right long-term developmental option, and teams don't like risking good quarterbacks. But keeping three quarterbacks would be a roster luxury for a team with a settled situation at the top.
J. Michael Sturdivant and Will Sheppard both made terrific final arguments on Friday night, and Isaiah Neyor was one dropped touchdown pass away from doing the same. The battle between these three has been raging all summer, and now the Packers must decide: Is there room on the roster for a seventh receiver? It's possible one of the three makes it comfortably if Savion Williams goes on IR. The Packers have all the boxes checked with their top six receivers, but Sturdivant and Sheppard can both play a role on special teams. Sturdivant might be too good to risk, especially after prioritizing him as a free agent following the draft and his 112-yard performance on Friday night.
#packers #roster #Friday #sunday
Toughest decisions awaiting the Packers on their path to 53 players:
Matt LaFleur wasn't able to confirm the injury timelines for defensive tackle Warren Brinson, receiver Savion Williams or edge rusher Collin Oliver, who were all injured within the last week and could be candidates to start the season on injured reserve. The roster math changes pretty quick if any of those three miss the start of the season. Any player placed on IR to start the season has to miss at least the first four games.
To his credit, Kyle McCord turned this into a legitimate question over three excellent preseason games. Tyrod Taylor is going to be the backup behind Jordan Love, but are the Packers willing to risk McCord to waivers? He looks like the right long-term developmental option, and teams don't like risking good quarterbacks. But keeping three quarterbacks would be a roster luxury for a team with a settled situation at the top.
J. Michael Sturdivant and Will Sheppard both made terrific final arguments on Friday night, and Isaiah Neyor was one dropped touchdown pass away from doing the same. The battle between these three has been raging all summer, and now the Packers must decide: Is there room on the roster for a seventh receiver? It's possible one of the three makes it comfortably if Savion Williams goes on IR. The Packers have all the boxes checked with their top six receivers, but Sturdivant and Sheppard can both play a role on special teams. Sturdivant might be too good to risk, especially after prioritizing him as a free agent following the draft and his 112-yard performance on Friday night.
#packers #roster #Friday #sunday
2 months ago
The Green Bay Packers got a pair of late touchdown passes from Kyle McCord to complete a comeback win over the Arizona Cardinals in what turned out to be an epic preseason shootout at Lambeau Field. The two teams combined for 80 points, and the Packers held on for a 42-38 win despite trailing 38-27 with under five minutes to go.
Roster cuts are coming, and the Packers must trim the roster down to 53 players by Sunday afternoon.
Here's who helped their 53-man roster chances on Friday night:
QB Kyle McCord: Will the Packers keep three quarterbacks? McCord has made the decision a difficult one. With the long-term backup situation unsettled, the Packers may not want risk McCord to waivers after three mostly excellent preseason performances, including Friday night's comeback win. His passer rating this preseason was 102.4. McCord tossed four touchdown passes against the Cardinals, including excellent down-the-field throws to J. Michael Sturdivant and Kisean Johnson for scores.
WR J. Michael Sturidvant: He caught six of seven passes, created a two-play solo touchdown drive, had multiple contested catches and finished with 112 receiving yards, the team's first 100-yard receiver during a preseason game since 2011. His immense potential as a receiver was finally giving a chance to shine, and it shone brightly. Kyle McCord had a 158.3 passer rating when targeting Sturdivant on Friday night. On one drive, Sturdivant caught a 36-yard pass to open the drive and then a 29-yard touchdown a play later. He looks close to claiming the seventh receiver spot, if one exists. It's also possible he'll make it if Savion Williams (ankle injury) starts the season on IR.
#kyle #passes
Roster cuts are coming, and the Packers must trim the roster down to 53 players by Sunday afternoon.
Here's who helped their 53-man roster chances on Friday night:
QB Kyle McCord: Will the Packers keep three quarterbacks? McCord has made the decision a difficult one. With the long-term backup situation unsettled, the Packers may not want risk McCord to waivers after three mostly excellent preseason performances, including Friday night's comeback win. His passer rating this preseason was 102.4. McCord tossed four touchdown passes against the Cardinals, including excellent down-the-field throws to J. Michael Sturdivant and Kisean Johnson for scores.
WR J. Michael Sturidvant: He caught six of seven passes, created a two-play solo touchdown drive, had multiple contested catches and finished with 112 receiving yards, the team's first 100-yard receiver during a preseason game since 2011. His immense potential as a receiver was finally giving a chance to shine, and it shone brightly. Kyle McCord had a 158.3 passer rating when targeting Sturdivant on Friday night. On one drive, Sturdivant caught a 36-yard pass to open the drive and then a 29-yard touchdown a play later. He looks close to claiming the seventh receiver spot, if one exists. It's also possible he'll make it if Savion Williams (ankle injury) starts the season on IR.
#kyle #passes
2 months ago
Aug. 29—In a high-scoring preseason affair, host Green Bay got four touchdown passes from Kyle McCord, including two in the final four minutes, to nip Arizona 42-38 at Lambeau Field on Friday night and finish 2-1 in the preseason.
McCord, a second-year player out of Syracuse who spent last season on the Philadelphia Eagles' practice squad, completed 22 of 35 passes for 226 yards and no interceptions. He was the only Packers quarterback to see action in a game contested by mostly reserves.
McCord connected with Kisean Johnson on a 28-yard scoring play with 3:19 left before directing a 44-yard scoring drive in the closing seconds. He and Johnson connected again from 10 yards out with 20 seconds left.
J. Michael Sturdivant pulled in six passes for 112 yards and a 29-yard touchdown in the second quarter immediately after a 36-yard connection with McCord. Will Sheppard had a touchdown catch and returned a punt 81 yards to the house for the Packers. Kicker Trey Smack converted two more field goals for a 9-for-9 preseason.
Arizona's Evan Hull rumbled for 107 yards and two touchdowns on 16 carries, while Simi Fehoko produced 94 yards and two touchdowns on five catches.
#preseason
McCord, a second-year player out of Syracuse who spent last season on the Philadelphia Eagles' practice squad, completed 22 of 35 passes for 226 yards and no interceptions. He was the only Packers quarterback to see action in a game contested by mostly reserves.
McCord connected with Kisean Johnson on a 28-yard scoring play with 3:19 left before directing a 44-yard scoring drive in the closing seconds. He and Johnson connected again from 10 yards out with 20 seconds left.
J. Michael Sturdivant pulled in six passes for 112 yards and a 29-yard touchdown in the second quarter immediately after a 36-yard connection with McCord. Will Sheppard had a touchdown catch and returned a punt 81 yards to the house for the Packers. Kicker Trey Smack converted two more field goals for a 9-for-9 preseason.
Arizona's Evan Hull rumbled for 107 yards and two touchdowns on 16 carries, while Simi Fehoko produced 94 yards and two touchdowns on five catches.
#preseason
2 months ago
Packers third-string quarterback Kyle McCord had an excellent game in the preseason finale, throwing for four touchdown passes and leading a fourth-quarter comeback as the Packers beat the Cardinals 42-38. And it was Packers first-string quarterback Jordan Love's voice in McCord's helmet during that comeback.
Love was given the play calling duties by Packers head coach Matt LaFleur, who delegated the duties to offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich for the first half and surprised Love by making it his job in the second half.
"Steno called the first half, did an outstanding job, and then we had J-Love call the second half," LaFleur said. "That was pretty cool, to hear his demeanor on the headset and how calm, cool and collected he was throughout the entire game, especially during those critical moments. That's what we see on the field, too."
It was the first time Love had called plays, and LaFleur didn't tell him he would have the job until they were on the field before the game.
"I just went up to him. It's not like he had time to prep. I was just like, 'Hey, you want to call the second half?'" LaFleur said. "He said, 'Sure. Yeah, I'll do it.' And he did it and he did an outstanding job."
#lafleur #half
Love was given the play calling duties by Packers head coach Matt LaFleur, who delegated the duties to offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich for the first half and surprised Love by making it his job in the second half.
"Steno called the first half, did an outstanding job, and then we had J-Love call the second half," LaFleur said. "That was pretty cool, to hear his demeanor on the headset and how calm, cool and collected he was throughout the entire game, especially during those critical moments. That's what we see on the field, too."
It was the first time Love had called plays, and LaFleur didn't tell him he would have the job until they were on the field before the game.
"I just went up to him. It's not like he had time to prep. I was just like, 'Hey, you want to call the second half?'" LaFleur said. "He said, 'Sure. Yeah, I'll do it.' And he did it and he did an outstanding job."
#lafleur #half
2 months ago
AnnaLynne McCord has married Danny Cipriani after the couple publicly asked fans to help fund their wedding. The 90210 alum shared the news in an Instagram Reel on Sunday. McCord said she married "the love of my life" the day before. She also called the wedding a blessing.
McCord and Cipriani launched a Honeyfund page last month to raise money for their wedding. The couple asked fans to give any amount toward their dream wedding and honeymoon. They quoted $100 for the marriage license, $1,000 for the rehearsal dinner and $1,200 for the flowers. The registry also allowed donations from $10 to $5,000.
The couple had raised $14,200 by Friday, according to The U.S. Sun. McCord told the outlet that she received "death threats" after launching the page. Some people called her "despicable," and she said others accused her of trying to get money from wedding guests. She also said some people donated $10 just to leave negative messages.
McCord confirmed her marriage in her Instagram video and called it "incredibly timeless." She praised every part of the event, from the rituals to the moments she shared with Cipriani. "Happy first day being AnnaLynne Cipriani to me," she said. The couple reportedly plans to hold two more wedding ceremonies in London and Cambodia.
After a long and on-and-off dating relationship, Cipriani proposed to McCord on Christmas Day 2025. The couple met on Raya, the celebrity dating app, and dated for years until 2020 when they parted ways. They reunited in 2024, and Cipriani shared their romance on Instagram in April. He called McCord his "Miracle" and wrote, "Loving you is the easiest thing in the world."
#wedding #Instagram
McCord and Cipriani launched a Honeyfund page last month to raise money for their wedding. The couple asked fans to give any amount toward their dream wedding and honeymoon. They quoted $100 for the marriage license, $1,000 for the rehearsal dinner and $1,200 for the flowers. The registry also allowed donations from $10 to $5,000.
The couple had raised $14,200 by Friday, according to The U.S. Sun. McCord told the outlet that she received "death threats" after launching the page. Some people called her "despicable," and she said others accused her of trying to get money from wedding guests. She also said some people donated $10 just to leave negative messages.
McCord confirmed her marriage in her Instagram video and called it "incredibly timeless." She praised every part of the event, from the rituals to the moments she shared with Cipriani. "Happy first day being AnnaLynne Cipriani to me," she said. The couple reportedly plans to hold two more wedding ceremonies in London and Cambodia.
After a long and on-and-off dating relationship, Cipriani proposed to McCord on Christmas Day 2025. The couple met on Raya, the celebrity dating app, and dated for years until 2020 when they parted ways. They reunited in 2024, and Cipriani shared their romance on Instagram in April. He called McCord his "Miracle" and wrote, "Loving you is the easiest thing in the world."
#wedding #Instagram
2 months ago
AnnaLynne McCord and Danny Cipriani married on Aug. 22 at their Los Angeles home
The couple's "elegant bohemian"-themed wedding took place in their backyard and was attended by 81 guests
The celebration featured handfasting, spontaneous vows, and live music
AnnaLynne McCord is married!
The 90210 alum, 39, exchanged vows with former rugby player Danny Cipriani, 38, in an "elegant bohemian"-themed backyard wedding at their Los Angeles home on Saturday, Aug. 22. They were joined by 81 guests, all of whom AnnaLynne warmly refers to as her "soul family."
#danny #angeles #married
The couple's "elegant bohemian"-themed wedding took place in their backyard and was attended by 81 guests
The celebration featured handfasting, spontaneous vows, and live music
AnnaLynne McCord is married!
The 90210 alum, 39, exchanged vows with former rugby player Danny Cipriani, 38, in an "elegant bohemian"-themed backyard wedding at their Los Angeles home on Saturday, Aug. 22. They were joined by 81 guests, all of whom AnnaLynne warmly refers to as her "soul family."
#danny #angeles #married
2 months ago
The Green Bay Packers left Denver on Friday night with a 33-13 win over the Broncos in the second week of the 2026 preseason. Three different quarterbacks led touchdown drives, while rookie kicker Trey Smack hit all seven of his kicks, accounting for 15 of the team's 33 points. More importantly, a bunch of players competing for roster spots impressed against the Broncos.
So, who improved their chances of making the Packers' roster in Denver? A stock watch coming out of Friday night's win:
Say ***** o to your new backup slot defender behind Javon Bullard. Hadden, who played in his first game since suffering a gruesome ankle injury in late December of last year, made five tackles, including three notable open-field stops and two tackles for loss. Defending the run from the slot is a priority, and Hadden had one play where he diagnosed the run, shot the gap and made the play in the backfield. There were no obvious lapses in coverage, either. Hadden's stock is way up after a terrific week overall.
The top three running backs all look like roster locks, but it's possible Strong has made a compelling enough case for the Packers to keep four at the position. On Friday night, Strong turned eight rushes into a team-high 37 rushing yards while creating a 12-yard run and forcing several missed tackles. He also produced a highlight special teams play on a nifty kickoff return gaining 68 yards. Strong looks like a natural runner, with wiggle, burst and vision. While more likely a priority practice squad player at this point, Strong greatly improved his stock in Denver with an impressive all-around performance.
Is there any competition for QB2? McCord played well again on Friday night, while Tyrod Taylor has only been so-so as the true backup behind Jordan Love. McCord completed 12 of 19 passes and led the Packers to 13 points over four drives, including another two-minute drive resulting in points before the half. His completion percentage would have been higher had the Packers backups not dropped a pass or two. Cutting capable quarterbacks is always tough, and McCord is looking more and more capable as the preseason continues on.
#denver #points
So, who improved their chances of making the Packers' roster in Denver? A stock watch coming out of Friday night's win:
Say ***** o to your new backup slot defender behind Javon Bullard. Hadden, who played in his first game since suffering a gruesome ankle injury in late December of last year, made five tackles, including three notable open-field stops and two tackles for loss. Defending the run from the slot is a priority, and Hadden had one play where he diagnosed the run, shot the gap and made the play in the backfield. There were no obvious lapses in coverage, either. Hadden's stock is way up after a terrific week overall.
The top three running backs all look like roster locks, but it's possible Strong has made a compelling enough case for the Packers to keep four at the position. On Friday night, Strong turned eight rushes into a team-high 37 rushing yards while creating a 12-yard run and forcing several missed tackles. He also produced a highlight special teams play on a nifty kickoff return gaining 68 yards. Strong looks like a natural runner, with wiggle, burst and vision. While more likely a priority practice squad player at this point, Strong greatly improved his stock in Denver with an impressive all-around performance.
Is there any competition for QB2? McCord played well again on Friday night, while Tyrod Taylor has only been so-so as the true backup behind Jordan Love. McCord completed 12 of 19 passes and led the Packers to 13 points over four drives, including another two-minute drive resulting in points before the half. His completion percentage would have been higher had the Packers backups not dropped a pass or two. Cutting capable quarterbacks is always tough, and McCord is looking more and more capable as the preseason continues on.
#denver #points
2 months ago
When Kyron Drones committed to the Virginia Tech Hokies out of the transfer portal in December 2022, it was a big deal. A former four-star quarterback from Pearland, Texas, Drones played his first two seasons for Baylor.
He'd then play three seasons for the Hokies, starting 32 of 34 games in which he played before his eligibility expired after last season. After going undrafted in the 2026 NFL Draft, the 6-foot-2, 226-pound Drones signed with the Green Bay Packers as an undrafted free agent. After Green Bay's first preseason game on Thursday, the Packers waived Drones.
In his preseason debut, Drones went 0-for-1 and was sacked three times. After his release, Green Bay will stick with three quarterbacks: starter Jordan Love, Virginia Tech legend and longtime NFL vet Tyrod Taylor and former Ohio State and Syracuse QB Kyle McCord.
Drones is now free to sign with another team.
In his three seasons with the Hokies, Drones completed 480 of 824 passes (58.3%), for 5,566 yards with 44 touchdowns and 18 interceptions. Drones also rushed for 1,798 yards and 20 touchdowns during his time in Blacksburg.
#drones #hokies #three #virginia
He'd then play three seasons for the Hokies, starting 32 of 34 games in which he played before his eligibility expired after last season. After going undrafted in the 2026 NFL Draft, the 6-foot-2, 226-pound Drones signed with the Green Bay Packers as an undrafted free agent. After Green Bay's first preseason game on Thursday, the Packers waived Drones.
In his preseason debut, Drones went 0-for-1 and was sacked three times. After his release, Green Bay will stick with three quarterbacks: starter Jordan Love, Virginia Tech legend and longtime NFL vet Tyrod Taylor and former Ohio State and Syracuse QB Kyle McCord.
Drones is now free to sign with another team.
In his three seasons with the Hokies, Drones completed 480 of 824 passes (58.3%), for 5,566 yards with 44 touchdowns and 18 interceptions. Drones also rushed for 1,798 yards and 20 touchdowns during his time in Blacksburg.
#drones #hokies #three #virginia
2 months ago
The last time Rod Moore played a fully healthy snap for the Michigan Wolverines was in the National Championship in 2023. Two and a half years later, there's optimism the program is finally getting him back in full force. After everything Moore has accomplished, being the face of conquering the Ohio State Buckeyes on the Wolverines' run to the national ***** le, his final season is about cementing his legacy and getting back the two years that injuries took away from him.
Moore was a three-star prospect in the 2021 class, and Jim Harbaugh went into enemy territory in Ohio to earn his commitment. As a true freshman in 2021, Moore appeared in 11 games and started four of them. He made his first career appearance in the Week 1 win vs Western Michigan, eventually starting against Ohio State in Michigan's first series win in nearly a decade and a half.
After starting in the Wolverines' first College Football Playoff appearance against Georgia, it was clear the coaching staff had a ton of confidence in Moore at such a young age. That led to a sophomore season where Moore went from a fringe starter to a consistent, bookend safety for the Wolverines. He made 13 starts in 14 games, leading all defensive backs in tackles with 71 and a team-high four interceptions. Moore became a star in late-season performances, recording 14 tackles, a career high, against Purdue in the Big Ten Championship, as well as 12 tackles and an interception in the CFP loss to TCU. For the second season in a row, Moore performed his best in the moments when Michigan needed him the most.
Then came the true moment of Moore's career, against the Buckeyes at home. With Ohio State driving down seven at the end of the game, Moore stepped in front of a Kyle McCord pass to seal the win and secure a spot in the Big Ten Championship and CFP:
It capped off Moore's second-straight All-Big Ten season, where he recorded 38 tackles and two interceptions en route to being crowned a national champion.
#michigan #state #national
Moore was a three-star prospect in the 2021 class, and Jim Harbaugh went into enemy territory in Ohio to earn his commitment. As a true freshman in 2021, Moore appeared in 11 games and started four of them. He made his first career appearance in the Week 1 win vs Western Michigan, eventually starting against Ohio State in Michigan's first series win in nearly a decade and a half.
After starting in the Wolverines' first College Football Playoff appearance against Georgia, it was clear the coaching staff had a ton of confidence in Moore at such a young age. That led to a sophomore season where Moore went from a fringe starter to a consistent, bookend safety for the Wolverines. He made 13 starts in 14 games, leading all defensive backs in tackles with 71 and a team-high four interceptions. Moore became a star in late-season performances, recording 14 tackles, a career high, against Purdue in the Big Ten Championship, as well as 12 tackles and an interception in the CFP loss to TCU. For the second season in a row, Moore performed his best in the moments when Michigan needed him the most.
Then came the true moment of Moore's career, against the Buckeyes at home. With Ohio State driving down seven at the end of the game, Moore stepped in front of a Kyle McCord pass to seal the win and secure a spot in the Big Ten Championship and CFP:
It capped off Moore's second-straight All-Big Ten season, where he recorded 38 tackles and two interceptions en route to being crowned a national champion.
#michigan #state #national
4 months ago
Height/Weight: 6-foot-2, 215 pounds
Hometown/High School: Aliquippa, PA (Hopewell H.S.)
Ranking: ★★★★ (90 Rivals — No. 101 overall, No. 9 QB)
Notable Offers: Auburn, Florida State, Georgia, Kentucky, Pitt, West Virginia
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It’s not often Pennsylvania produces a Top 100 caliber prospect at quarterback, but when it has in recent times (Kyle McCord, Matt Zollers) they ended up elsewhere (Ohio State, Missouri). Fortunately, that’s not the case here as Penn State was able to secure an early-ish commitment from James Armstrong. I say “early-ish” because it is before his junior season, but quarterback recruiting has been sped up in recent times as quarterbacks want to lock in their place in a class. Schools like Texas, Georgia, and Notre Dame all have a 2028 quarterback committed, and now Penn State joins the list.
Armstrong is a dual-threat, lefty quarterback who is coming off a prolific sophomore season at Hopewell (alma mater of Tony Dorsett and Paul Posluszny) where he threw for 2,232 yards and had 21 passing TDs to just 3 interceptions, all the while running for 799 yards and adding in 16 touchdowns on the ground. That — on top of being a standout basketball and baseball player — earned him the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Athlete of the Year Award, being the first sophomore to ever win it.
Beyond my affinity for lefties, what makes Armstrong particularly intriguing his is dual-threat capabilities. Penn State hasn’t had statues at quarterback — Sean Clifford was a solid runner before he would have to stop running because he’d be hurt, and Drew Allar was a better runner than given credit for — but it hasn’t been since Trace McSorley that they had someone truly dangerous with their legs. Now, I am not saying Armstrong is Michael Vick 2.0 and is going to break the sport with tantalizing runs. But his athleticism and size is going to be an ******* et, both when a play breaks down and on designed-QB runs.
Hometown/High School: Aliquippa, PA (Hopewell H.S.)
Ranking: ★★★★ (90 Rivals — No. 101 overall, No. 9 QB)
Notable Offers: Auburn, Florida State, Georgia, Kentucky, Pitt, West Virginia
View Link
It’s not often Pennsylvania produces a Top 100 caliber prospect at quarterback, but when it has in recent times (Kyle McCord, Matt Zollers) they ended up elsewhere (Ohio State, Missouri). Fortunately, that’s not the case here as Penn State was able to secure an early-ish commitment from James Armstrong. I say “early-ish” because it is before his junior season, but quarterback recruiting has been sped up in recent times as quarterbacks want to lock in their place in a class. Schools like Texas, Georgia, and Notre Dame all have a 2028 quarterback committed, and now Penn State joins the list.
Armstrong is a dual-threat, lefty quarterback who is coming off a prolific sophomore season at Hopewell (alma mater of Tony Dorsett and Paul Posluszny) where he threw for 2,232 yards and had 21 passing TDs to just 3 interceptions, all the while running for 799 yards and adding in 16 touchdowns on the ground. That — on top of being a standout basketball and baseball player — earned him the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Athlete of the Year Award, being the first sophomore to ever win it.
Beyond my affinity for lefties, what makes Armstrong particularly intriguing his is dual-threat capabilities. Penn State hasn’t had statues at quarterback — Sean Clifford was a solid runner before he would have to stop running because he’d be hurt, and Drew Allar was a better runner than given credit for — but it hasn’t been since Trace McSorley that they had someone truly dangerous with their legs. Now, I am not saying Armstrong is Michael Vick 2.0 and is going to break the sport with tantalizing runs. But his athleticism and size is going to be an ******* et, both when a play breaks down and on designed-QB runs.
4 months ago
The first data point for predicting the Green Bay Packers’ 53-man roster in 2026 has come and gone, with the team completing their offseason program, which included multiple practices at OTAs and minicamp that were open to the media.
While training camp and the preseason will be the true decider, here is a look at how Green Bay’s roster could look for the upcoming season as things stand today:
It is difficult to envisage one of Kyron Drones or Kyle McCord making a legitimate push for a roster spot. One of them should win a place on the practice squad, with Green Bay’s quarterback room anchored by Love and seasoned veteran Tyrod Taylor.
There is no new information on Josh Jacobs’ legal situation, and although he has still not formally been charged, there is a good chance this rolls into the season, and the Packers may need to protect themselves by having extra depth at the running back position.
Everyone is holding their breath to see if MarShawn Lloyd can stay healthy in 2026, but it should not be taken as a given by any means.
While training camp and the preseason will be the true decider, here is a look at how Green Bay’s roster could look for the upcoming season as things stand today:
It is difficult to envisage one of Kyron Drones or Kyle McCord making a legitimate push for a roster spot. One of them should win a place on the practice squad, with Green Bay’s quarterback room anchored by Love and seasoned veteran Tyrod Taylor.
There is no new information on Josh Jacobs’ legal situation, and although he has still not formally been charged, there is a good chance this rolls into the season, and the Packers may need to protect themselves by having extra depth at the running back position.
Everyone is holding their breath to see if MarShawn Lloyd can stay healthy in 2026, but it should not be taken as a given by any means.
