4 days ago
The Commodity and Futures Trading Commission on Thursday paved the way to expand prediction markets and cryptocurrency trading on certain online platforms. DraftKings led a retreat for sports betting stocks Thursday.
The CFTC's Market Participation division issued a no-action letter, saying it will not take enforcement action against providers of what the agency called "passive software."
These passive software providers include companies and developers that offer prediction market, derivatives or crypto trading services, but do not take custody of user ***** ets.
"Subject to certain specified conditions, MPD will not recommend the Commission take enforcement action against any such provider or their relevant personnel for failure to register as an introducing broker or an ***** ociated person of an introducing broker," the regulator said in its announcement. However, this only applies to the "provision and marketing of software to facilitate trading" between users and registered futures commission merchants, introducing brokers, and designated contract merchants.
The decision follows a similar no-action letter from the CFTC in March, which responded to a request from self-custody crypto wallet provider Phantom Technologies, Bloomberg reported. Phantom Technologies partnered with Kalshi to offer predictions market trading to its more than 20 million crypto wallet holders.
#action
The CFTC's Market Participation division issued a no-action letter, saying it will not take enforcement action against providers of what the agency called "passive software."
These passive software providers include companies and developers that offer prediction market, derivatives or crypto trading services, but do not take custody of user ***** ets.
"Subject to certain specified conditions, MPD will not recommend the Commission take enforcement action against any such provider or their relevant personnel for failure to register as an introducing broker or an ***** ociated person of an introducing broker," the regulator said in its announcement. However, this only applies to the "provision and marketing of software to facilitate trading" between users and registered futures commission merchants, introducing brokers, and designated contract merchants.
The decision follows a similar no-action letter from the CFTC in March, which responded to a request from self-custody crypto wallet provider Phantom Technologies, Bloomberg reported. Phantom Technologies partnered with Kalshi to offer predictions market trading to its more than 20 million crypto wallet holders.
#action
6 days ago
Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL) is increasing the expected cost of its fiscal 2026 restructuring plan by about $700 million to roughly $2.8 billion as it simultaneously ramps up spending to capture demand for AI cloud services. The additional costs include severance, contract terminations and other exit expenses, with some restructuring directly linked to adopting AI across parts of the organization.
Oracle had already recorded $1.8 billion of restructuring expenses in fiscal 2026, compared with $299 million in fiscal 2025, showing how materially the company is accelerating its operational transformation. The restructuring comes alongside an unusually large AI investment cycle. Oracle booked more than $30 billion of new AI cloud contracts in its latest quarter, lifting its remaining performance obligations/revenue backlog to $664 billion, while roughly half of that backlog is expected to convert into revenue over the next 36 months.
The strongest bull argument is that the additional restructuring expense is part of a broader shift toward a higher-growth cloud and AI business rather than simply a deterioration in cost control. Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL)'s restructuring program is explicitly aimed at improving efficiency while reallocating resources toward cloud-based offerings and second-generation cloud infrastructure. If the $2.8 billion restructuring program reduces lower-growth costs and enables Oracle to redirect personnel and capital toward AI infrastructure, the near-term earnings pressure could support stronger operating leverage later as cloud revenue scales.
More importantly, the restructuring is occurring against evidence that AI demand is already translating into contracted revenue. Oracle added more than $30 billion of AI cloud contracts in one quarter, pushing its backlog to $664 billion, above the $639.89 billion ******* yst estimate. Management said most of the newly contracted revenue would not require substantial incremental capital because customers are using prepayments or supplying their own hardware. That is particularly important because Oracle's biggest weakness has been the mismatch between rapid infrastructure investment and current cash generation. If customer-funded capacity continues to reduce Oracle's upfront capital burden, the company could convert its huge backlog into revenue without proportionally increasing its cash burn.
The early financial evidence also supports the possibility that the AI strategy is beginning to improve Oracle's growth profile. Revenue in the recent quarter rose 30% year over year to $19.3 billion, adjusted EPS reached $1.92 versus the $1.74 ******* yst consensus, and Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL) raised its fiscal 2027 adjusted EPS forecast from $8.05 to $8.10. Meanwhile, first-quarter free cash flow of negative $5.4 billion was substantially better than both the expected negative $9.56 billion and the previous-quarter negative $11.48 billion. If this trajectory continues, the $700
Oracle had already recorded $1.8 billion of restructuring expenses in fiscal 2026, compared with $299 million in fiscal 2025, showing how materially the company is accelerating its operational transformation. The restructuring comes alongside an unusually large AI investment cycle. Oracle booked more than $30 billion of new AI cloud contracts in its latest quarter, lifting its remaining performance obligations/revenue backlog to $664 billion, while roughly half of that backlog is expected to convert into revenue over the next 36 months.
The strongest bull argument is that the additional restructuring expense is part of a broader shift toward a higher-growth cloud and AI business rather than simply a deterioration in cost control. Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL)'s restructuring program is explicitly aimed at improving efficiency while reallocating resources toward cloud-based offerings and second-generation cloud infrastructure. If the $2.8 billion restructuring program reduces lower-growth costs and enables Oracle to redirect personnel and capital toward AI infrastructure, the near-term earnings pressure could support stronger operating leverage later as cloud revenue scales.
More importantly, the restructuring is occurring against evidence that AI demand is already translating into contracted revenue. Oracle added more than $30 billion of AI cloud contracts in one quarter, pushing its backlog to $664 billion, above the $639.89 billion ******* yst estimate. Management said most of the newly contracted revenue would not require substantial incremental capital because customers are using prepayments or supplying their own hardware. That is particularly important because Oracle's biggest weakness has been the mismatch between rapid infrastructure investment and current cash generation. If customer-funded capacity continues to reduce Oracle's upfront capital burden, the company could convert its huge backlog into revenue without proportionally increasing its cash burn.
The early financial evidence also supports the possibility that the AI strategy is beginning to improve Oracle's growth profile. Revenue in the recent quarter rose 30% year over year to $19.3 billion, adjusted EPS reached $1.92 versus the $1.74 ******* yst consensus, and Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL) raised its fiscal 2027 adjusted EPS forecast from $8.05 to $8.10. Meanwhile, first-quarter free cash flow of negative $5.4 billion was substantially better than both the expected negative $9.56 billion and the previous-quarter negative $11.48 billion. If this trajectory continues, the $700
6 days ago
Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL) is increasing the expected cost of its fiscal 2026 restructuring plan by about $700 million to roughly $2.8 billion as it simultaneously ramps up spending to capture demand for AI cloud services. The additional costs include severance, contract terminations and other exit expenses, with some restructuring directly linked to adopting AI across parts of the organization.
Oracle had already recorded $1.8 billion of restructuring expenses in fiscal 2026, compared with $299 million in fiscal 2025, showing how materially the company is accelerating its operational transformation. The restructuring comes alongside an unusually large AI investment cycle. Oracle booked more than $30 billion of new AI cloud contracts in its latest quarter, lifting its remaining performance obligations/revenue backlog to $664 billion, while roughly half of that backlog is expected to convert into revenue over the next 36 months.
The strongest bull argument is that the additional restructuring expense is part of a broader shift toward a higher-growth cloud and AI business rather than simply a deterioration in cost control. Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL)'s restructuring program is explicitly aimed at improving efficiency while reallocating resources toward cloud-based offerings and second-generation cloud infrastructure. If the $2.8 billion restructuring program reduces lower-growth costs and enables Oracle to redirect personnel and capital toward AI infrastructure, the near-term earnings pressure could support stronger operating leverage later as cloud revenue scales.
More importantly, the restructuring is occurring against evidence that AI demand is already translating into contracted revenue. Oracle added more than $30 billion of AI cloud contracts in one quarter, pushing its backlog to $664 billion, above the $639.89 billion ****** yst estimate. Management said most of the newly contracted revenue would not require substantial incremental capital because customers are using prepayments or supplying their own hardware. That is particularly important because Oracle's biggest weakness has been the mismatch between rapid infrastructure investment and current cash generation. If customer-funded capacity continues to reduce Oracle's upfront capital burden, the company could convert its huge backlog into revenue without proportionally increasing its cash burn.
The early financial evidence also supports the possibility that the AI strategy is beginning to improve Oracle's growth profile. Revenue in the recent quarter rose 30% year over year to $19.3 billion, adjusted EPS reached $1.92 versus the $1.74 ****** yst consensus, and Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL) raised its fiscal 2027 adjusted EPS forecast from $8.05 to $8.10. Meanwhile, first-quarter free cash flow of negative $5.4 billion was substantially better than both the expected negative $9.56 billion and the previous-quarter negative $11.48 billion. If this trajectory continues, the $700 mi
Oracle had already recorded $1.8 billion of restructuring expenses in fiscal 2026, compared with $299 million in fiscal 2025, showing how materially the company is accelerating its operational transformation. The restructuring comes alongside an unusually large AI investment cycle. Oracle booked more than $30 billion of new AI cloud contracts in its latest quarter, lifting its remaining performance obligations/revenue backlog to $664 billion, while roughly half of that backlog is expected to convert into revenue over the next 36 months.
The strongest bull argument is that the additional restructuring expense is part of a broader shift toward a higher-growth cloud and AI business rather than simply a deterioration in cost control. Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL)'s restructuring program is explicitly aimed at improving efficiency while reallocating resources toward cloud-based offerings and second-generation cloud infrastructure. If the $2.8 billion restructuring program reduces lower-growth costs and enables Oracle to redirect personnel and capital toward AI infrastructure, the near-term earnings pressure could support stronger operating leverage later as cloud revenue scales.
More importantly, the restructuring is occurring against evidence that AI demand is already translating into contracted revenue. Oracle added more than $30 billion of AI cloud contracts in one quarter, pushing its backlog to $664 billion, above the $639.89 billion ****** yst estimate. Management said most of the newly contracted revenue would not require substantial incremental capital because customers are using prepayments or supplying their own hardware. That is particularly important because Oracle's biggest weakness has been the mismatch between rapid infrastructure investment and current cash generation. If customer-funded capacity continues to reduce Oracle's upfront capital burden, the company could convert its huge backlog into revenue without proportionally increasing its cash burn.
The early financial evidence also supports the possibility that the AI strategy is beginning to improve Oracle's growth profile. Revenue in the recent quarter rose 30% year over year to $19.3 billion, adjusted EPS reached $1.92 versus the $1.74 ****** yst consensus, and Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL) raised its fiscal 2027 adjusted EPS forecast from $8.05 to $8.10. Meanwhile, first-quarter free cash flow of negative $5.4 billion was substantially better than both the expected negative $9.56 billion and the previous-quarter negative $11.48 billion. If this trajectory continues, the $700 mi
6 days ago
Oregon billionaires Phil and Penny Knight committed $1.1 billion to the Providence St. Vincent Medical Center and the Providence Heart Institute to build Oregon's first hospital dedicated to women's health, the medical center announced Tuesday.
Phil Knight, co-founder of Nike, and his wife, have supported the institute for more than a decade, previously giving it more than $200 million, including a $75 million gift earlier this year. Along with creating the new women's hospital, their new donation will help the medical center expand cardiovascular care and clinical research and training programs for the heart institute's medical personnel. It will also make it easier to integrate patient care across the medical center.
"Women's health needs change throughout life, and too often patients are asked to navigate multiple specialties and care settings on their own," Ray Moreno, the medical center's CEO, said in a statement. "The Knights' gift is an opportunity to bring these resources together, expanding access for women across Oregon and creating a strong foundation to bridge care gaps in women's health."
The donation is particularly significant because it comes at a moment when U.S. hospitals are seeing far more pregnant patients who are also managing chronic health conditions like diabetes, hypertension, addiction, and behavioral and mental health issues. It also lands at the same time healthcare organizations are struggling with the impact of government funding cuts.
"Resources are scarce, and healthcare is increasingly looking to philanthropy to fill in the gaps," Dan Oseran, the heart institute's executive medical director, told the Chronicle. "A gift like this reduces that friction a little bit and provides the ability to do things we wouldn't otherwise be able to do."
#center #oregon #knight #providence
Phil Knight, co-founder of Nike, and his wife, have supported the institute for more than a decade, previously giving it more than $200 million, including a $75 million gift earlier this year. Along with creating the new women's hospital, their new donation will help the medical center expand cardiovascular care and clinical research and training programs for the heart institute's medical personnel. It will also make it easier to integrate patient care across the medical center.
"Women's health needs change throughout life, and too often patients are asked to navigate multiple specialties and care settings on their own," Ray Moreno, the medical center's CEO, said in a statement. "The Knights' gift is an opportunity to bring these resources together, expanding access for women across Oregon and creating a strong foundation to bridge care gaps in women's health."
The donation is particularly significant because it comes at a moment when U.S. hospitals are seeing far more pregnant patients who are also managing chronic health conditions like diabetes, hypertension, addiction, and behavioral and mental health issues. It also lands at the same time healthcare organizations are struggling with the impact of government funding cuts.
"Resources are scarce, and healthcare is increasingly looking to philanthropy to fill in the gaps," Dan Oseran, the heart institute's executive medical director, told the Chronicle. "A gift like this reduces that friction a little bit and provides the ability to do things we wouldn't otherwise be able to do."
#center #oregon #knight #providence
8 days ago
Law Murray: Notably, the LA Clippers did not "announce" this trade via a personnel executive, which is what they did for all other transaction releases this offseason, whether it had statements or not.
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Notably, the LA Clippers did not "announce" this trade …
#hype
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Notably, the LA Clippers did not "announce" this trade …
#hype
8 days ago
The Eagles left their season opener with a victory, but the offensive line's uneven performance has now been followed by a significant personnel change. Philadelphia placed Landon ****** erson on injured reserve after the veteran left guard played through multiple ailments against Washington. Drew Kendall and Willie Lampkin are the leading candidates to replace him, although the Eagles could consider changing more than one position.
Here are four takeaways from the move.
Dickerson rarely looked comfortable against the Commanders. He played all 55 offensive snaps but surrendered three pressures, including a quarterback hit, and was penalized for holding. Those problems were part of a difficult afternoon for Philadelphia's interior protection. Washington repeatedly generated pressure through the middle and finished with three sacks.
Dickerson's performance should be viewed in the context of the physical issues he was trying to manage. He remained on the field for every offensive play, but he did not resemble the powerful and dependable blocker the Eagles have come to expect.
Kendall appears to be one of the most logical candidates to enter the starting lineup. His ability to play both center and guard gives Philadelphia flexibility, especially if the coaching staff wants to limit changes at once. The Eagles could place Kendall directly at left guard and leave Cam Jurgens at center and Tyler Steen at right guard. That would preserve continuity at four of the five starting positions.
#played
Here are four takeaways from the move.
Dickerson rarely looked comfortable against the Commanders. He played all 55 offensive snaps but surrendered three pressures, including a quarterback hit, and was penalized for holding. Those problems were part of a difficult afternoon for Philadelphia's interior protection. Washington repeatedly generated pressure through the middle and finished with three sacks.
Dickerson's performance should be viewed in the context of the physical issues he was trying to manage. He remained on the field for every offensive play, but he did not resemble the powerful and dependable blocker the Eagles have come to expect.
Kendall appears to be one of the most logical candidates to enter the starting lineup. His ability to play both center and guard gives Philadelphia flexibility, especially if the coaching staff wants to limit changes at once. The Eagles could place Kendall directly at left guard and leave Cam Jurgens at center and Tyler Steen at right guard. That would preserve continuity at four of the five starting positions.
#played
8 days ago
NEW DELHI: India pacer Kranti Gaud has been fined 10 per cent of her match fee for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the Women's Asia Cup final against Sri Lanka in Dubai on Sunday.
Gaud was found guilty of a Level 1 breach of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel.
Gaud breached Article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which relates to "using language, actions or gestures which disparage, or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an International Match."
The incident took place in the first over of Sri Lanka's innings. After dismissing opener Imesha Dulani, Gaud gestured in the direction of the pavilion.
Gaud admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by Supriya Rani Das of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees. As a result, there was no need for a formal hearing.
On-field umpires Saleema Imtiaz and Shathira Jakir Jesy, third umpire Rokeya Sultana and fourth umpire Humaira Farah levelled the charge.
Along with the 10 per cent fine, one demerit point has been added to Gaud's disciplinary record.
It was her first offence in a 24-month period.
Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand and a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of a player's match fee. They can also result in one or two demerit points.
Pakistan have been fined five per cent of their match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate during their Women's Asia Cup semifinal against Sri Lanka on Friday.
G.S. Lakshmi of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees imposed the sanction after Pakistan were found to be one over short of the target after time allowances were taken into consideration.
Under Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which deals with minimum over-rate offences, players are fined five per cent of their match fee for every over their team fails to bowl in the allotted time.
Pakistan captain Fatima Sana pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction. Therefore, there was no need for a formal hearing.
On-field umpires Vrinda Rathi and Shathira Jakir Jesy, third umpire Rokeya Sultana and fourth umpire Rabab Ahsan levelled the charge.
#code #conduct #cent #umpire
Gaud was found guilty of a Level 1 breach of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel.
Gaud breached Article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which relates to "using language, actions or gestures which disparage, or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an International Match."
The incident took place in the first over of Sri Lanka's innings. After dismissing opener Imesha Dulani, Gaud gestured in the direction of the pavilion.
Gaud admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by Supriya Rani Das of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees. As a result, there was no need for a formal hearing.
On-field umpires Saleema Imtiaz and Shathira Jakir Jesy, third umpire Rokeya Sultana and fourth umpire Humaira Farah levelled the charge.
Along with the 10 per cent fine, one demerit point has been added to Gaud's disciplinary record.
It was her first offence in a 24-month period.
Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand and a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of a player's match fee. They can also result in one or two demerit points.
Pakistan have been fined five per cent of their match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate during their Women's Asia Cup semifinal against Sri Lanka on Friday.
G.S. Lakshmi of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees imposed the sanction after Pakistan were found to be one over short of the target after time allowances were taken into consideration.
Under Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which deals with minimum over-rate offences, players are fined five per cent of their match fee for every over their team fails to bowl in the allotted time.
Pakistan captain Fatima Sana pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction. Therefore, there was no need for a formal hearing.
On-field umpires Vrinda Rathi and Shathira Jakir Jesy, third umpire Rokeya Sultana and fourth umpire Rabab Ahsan levelled the charge.
#code #conduct #cent #umpire
10 days ago
EAST LANSING — Michigan State coach Pat Fitzgerald thinks he may have his most important defensive player back for next week's game against Notre Dame.
In his postgame press conference after a 35-7 win over Eastern Michigan on Saturday, Sept. 12, Fitzgerald said that starting middle linebacker Jordan Hall was not cleared for the game by medical personnel but could be available for Week 3's rivalry game in South Bend.
"Jordan was really close playing today," Fitzgerald said. "Medical team told us that he was not cleared here late in the week. We made that decision collectively together to make sure that we think about his health, safety, and well-being. And I expect if we practice tomorrow that he'll be ready to go."
Hall made 88 tackles last season to lead Michigan State's defense and is a two-time captain. The senior made four tackles in 25 snaps in Week 1's win over Toledo but came on and off the field with a right elbow injury sustained on the second drive of the season. He walked into Spartan Stadium on Saturday with a brace on that right arm.
MSU LB Jordan Hall with a brace on his right elbow as he takes the Spartan Walk.
Saw him wince on a couple of handshakes. We’ll see how he looks in warmups.detroitnews pic.twitter.com/qklOKEfVbs
#game #spartan
In his postgame press conference after a 35-7 win over Eastern Michigan on Saturday, Sept. 12, Fitzgerald said that starting middle linebacker Jordan Hall was not cleared for the game by medical personnel but could be available for Week 3's rivalry game in South Bend.
"Jordan was really close playing today," Fitzgerald said. "Medical team told us that he was not cleared here late in the week. We made that decision collectively together to make sure that we think about his health, safety, and well-being. And I expect if we practice tomorrow that he'll be ready to go."
Hall made 88 tackles last season to lead Michigan State's defense and is a two-time captain. The senior made four tackles in 25 snaps in Week 1's win over Toledo but came on and off the field with a right elbow injury sustained on the second drive of the season. He walked into Spartan Stadium on Saturday with a brace on that right arm.
MSU LB Jordan Hall with a brace on his right elbow as he takes the Spartan Walk.
Saw him wince on a couple of handshakes. We’ll see how he looks in warmups.detroitnews pic.twitter.com/qklOKEfVbs
#game #spartan
10 days ago
The Indianapolis Colts are one of a number of NFL teams in attendance at Saturday's Ohio State vs. Texas game, according to Ryan Fowler.
It's no surprise that the Colts have representatives at this game, given the high-profile matchup between two top-five teams.
Fowler did not specify who from the Colts is at the game.
The following NFL teams will have reps present at Ohio State - Texas tonight:
• Eagles
• Cowboys
• Seahawks
• 49ers
• Broncos
• Colts
• Patriots
• Panthers
• Lions
• Chargers
• Texans
• Ravens
• Rams
• Dolphins
• Jets
• Browns
Scouts and/or personnel executives attending college football games in person is common practice in the NFL. It is a regular part of the evaluation process.
#teams #ryan
It's no surprise that the Colts have representatives at this game, given the high-profile matchup between two top-five teams.
Fowler did not specify who from the Colts is at the game.
The following NFL teams will have reps present at Ohio State - Texas tonight:
• Eagles
• Cowboys
• Seahawks
• 49ers
• Broncos
• Colts
• Patriots
• Panthers
• Lions
• Chargers
• Texans
• Ravens
• Rams
• Dolphins
• Jets
• Browns
Scouts and/or personnel executives attending college football games in person is common practice in the NFL. It is a regular part of the evaluation process.
#teams #ryan
10 days ago
Early big-time college football matchups are all the rage, and the Philadelphia Eagles will have representatives in Austin for one of the most talent-rich games on the early college football schedule.
Philadelphia is among 16 NFL organizations expected to have scouts present when No. 1 Ohio State visits No. 4 Texas on Saturday night at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. The game will begin at 7:30 p.m. ET on ABC. The Eagles will join the Cowboys, Seahawks, 49ers, Broncos, Colts, Patriots, Panthers, Lions, Chargers, Texans, Ravens, Rams, Dolphins, Jets and Browns in evaluating two rosters loaded with potential NFL talent.
Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith is expected to become one of the most coveted prospects in the 2027 draft. His matchup against Texas' secondary will give evaluators another opportunity to study his releases, route running, and ability to produce against top competition.
The following NFL teams will have reps present at Ohio State - Texas tonight:
• Eagles
• Cowboys
• Seahawks
• 49ers
• Broncos
• Colts
• Patriots
• Panthers
• Lions
• Chargers
• Texans
• Ravens
• Rams
• Dolphins
• Jets
• Browns
Buckeyes quarterback Julian Sayin and Texas quarterback Arch Manning will receive plenty of attention, even from organizations without an immediate need at the position. Comprehensive quarterback evaluations remain valuable because their eventual landing spots can influence the entire draft board. Texas edge defender Colin Simmons is another prospect capable of commanding the attention of Philadelphia's personnel department. His ability to pressure the quarterback and defend the run fits the athletic profile the Eagles have consistently valued along the defensive front.
#texas #state #philadelphia #colts
Philadelphia is among 16 NFL organizations expected to have scouts present when No. 1 Ohio State visits No. 4 Texas on Saturday night at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. The game will begin at 7:30 p.m. ET on ABC. The Eagles will join the Cowboys, Seahawks, 49ers, Broncos, Colts, Patriots, Panthers, Lions, Chargers, Texans, Ravens, Rams, Dolphins, Jets and Browns in evaluating two rosters loaded with potential NFL talent.
Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith is expected to become one of the most coveted prospects in the 2027 draft. His matchup against Texas' secondary will give evaluators another opportunity to study his releases, route running, and ability to produce against top competition.
The following NFL teams will have reps present at Ohio State - Texas tonight:
• Eagles
• Cowboys
• Seahawks
• 49ers
• Broncos
• Colts
• Patriots
• Panthers
• Lions
• Chargers
• Texans
• Ravens
• Rams
• Dolphins
• Jets
• Browns
Buckeyes quarterback Julian Sayin and Texas quarterback Arch Manning will receive plenty of attention, even from organizations without an immediate need at the position. Comprehensive quarterback evaluations remain valuable because their eventual landing spots can influence the entire draft board. Texas edge defender Colin Simmons is another prospect capable of commanding the attention of Philadelphia's personnel department. His ability to pressure the quarterback and defend the run fits the athletic profile the Eagles have consistently valued along the defensive front.
#texas #state #philadelphia #colts
10 days ago
The Houston Rockets recently teamed up with Toyota for an annual day of service, where they honored both first responders and military personnel. Some of Houston's attendees included Reed Sheppard, Jae'Sean Tate, head coach Ime Udoka and general manager Rafael Stone. While there, Stone spoke to the media about his relationship with star center Alperen Sengun, revealing that he went to visit him in Turkey this summer.
"We had some good conversations at the end of last year. Part of it was Alpi putting pressure on me [to communicate better]." Stone went on to say that he spent nearly two weeks with Sengun in Turkey, spending time with one another each day. This is, of course, a great sign for Rockets fans, as Sengun and the front office appear to be on the same page.
Last season, Sengun made his second consecutive all-star appearance, averaging 20.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, 6.2 ******* ists, 1.2 steals and 1.1 blocks.
For more NBA content, check out the BasketBaltes podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/@B...
#stone #basketbaltes #last
"We had some good conversations at the end of last year. Part of it was Alpi putting pressure on me [to communicate better]." Stone went on to say that he spent nearly two weeks with Sengun in Turkey, spending time with one another each day. This is, of course, a great sign for Rockets fans, as Sengun and the front office appear to be on the same page.
Last season, Sengun made his second consecutive all-star appearance, averaging 20.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, 6.2 ******* ists, 1.2 steals and 1.1 blocks.
For more NBA content, check out the BasketBaltes podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/@B...
#stone #basketbaltes #last
10 days ago
Steelers news: AFC executive hits Joey Porter Jr. with humbling take amid contract dispute appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Ahead of Sunday's season opener against the Atlanta Falcons, Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. spoke to reporters about the status of his contract negotiations, hoping for an agreement to be reached before kickoff. He explicitly dismissed rumors suggesting he demanded to become the NFL's highest-paid cornerback while trying to manage outside expectations about his contract demands.
Despite Porter's efforts to temper expectations, personnel evaluators around the league are skeptical about his true market value. There is a high-stakes standoff in Pittsburgh, with front-office executives questioning whether the 26-year-old cornerback has earned the right to command top compensation alongside the league's elite defensive players.
An in-depth report from The New York Times included a sobering **** sment from a rival AFC executive on Porter's leverage and standing: "Is Joey Porter as good as maybe he values himself? I would **** ume he wants to be on par with Surtain/Horn, maybe even higher. But he isn't at that level as a player. Perhaps the Steelers are willing to accept a compensatory pick or a franchise tag instead of committing to what might be an overestimate."
Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)
#steelers #contract
Ahead of Sunday's season opener against the Atlanta Falcons, Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. spoke to reporters about the status of his contract negotiations, hoping for an agreement to be reached before kickoff. He explicitly dismissed rumors suggesting he demanded to become the NFL's highest-paid cornerback while trying to manage outside expectations about his contract demands.
Despite Porter's efforts to temper expectations, personnel evaluators around the league are skeptical about his true market value. There is a high-stakes standoff in Pittsburgh, with front-office executives questioning whether the 26-year-old cornerback has earned the right to command top compensation alongside the league's elite defensive players.
An in-depth report from The New York Times included a sobering **** sment from a rival AFC executive on Porter's leverage and standing: "Is Joey Porter as good as maybe he values himself? I would **** ume he wants to be on par with Surtain/Horn, maybe even higher. But he isn't at that level as a player. Perhaps the Steelers are willing to accept a compensatory pick or a franchise tag instead of committing to what might be an overestimate."
Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)
#steelers #contract
10 days ago
The Indianapolis Colts open the regular season at home against the Baltimore Ravens.
To help us preview this matchup, Glenn Erby, the managing editor of Ravens Wire, answered a handful of our questions to provide some insights into this Baltimore team.
Ravens Wire: Minter has been organized, direct, and consistent since taking over. He brings energy without manufacturing it, and players have responded to his detailed but collaborative approach. He has also allowed his coordinators to establish their identities while remaining heavily involved with the defense. The biggest takeaway is that he appears comfortable leading the entire operation rather than simply functioning as a defensive-minded head coach. The regular season will present different challenges, but the transition from John Harbaugh has been smoother than many expected.
Ravens Wire: Baltimore's defensive front should be its biggest strength. The Ravens added Trey Hendrickson to a group that could regain Nnamdi Madubuike while also featuring Calais Campbell, Travis Jones, and second-round pick Zion Young. Roquan Smith and Kyle Hamilton give the defense elite talent behind that front. If Madubuike remains healthy, Baltimore should be able to stop the run without sacrificing its ability to pressure quarterbacks.
Ravens Wire: The interior offensive line is the primary concern. Baltimore will start Jovaughn Gwyn at center and rookie first-round pick Vega Ioane at right guard. Gwyn has never started an NFL game, while Ioane will make his regular-season debut against DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart. The Ravens are also installing Declan Doyle's offense, so communication and protection errors could occur early. Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry can cover plenty of weaknesses, but Indianapolis has the personnel to test that inexperienced interior.
#Ravens
To help us preview this matchup, Glenn Erby, the managing editor of Ravens Wire, answered a handful of our questions to provide some insights into this Baltimore team.
Ravens Wire: Minter has been organized, direct, and consistent since taking over. He brings energy without manufacturing it, and players have responded to his detailed but collaborative approach. He has also allowed his coordinators to establish their identities while remaining heavily involved with the defense. The biggest takeaway is that he appears comfortable leading the entire operation rather than simply functioning as a defensive-minded head coach. The regular season will present different challenges, but the transition from John Harbaugh has been smoother than many expected.
Ravens Wire: Baltimore's defensive front should be its biggest strength. The Ravens added Trey Hendrickson to a group that could regain Nnamdi Madubuike while also featuring Calais Campbell, Travis Jones, and second-round pick Zion Young. Roquan Smith and Kyle Hamilton give the defense elite talent behind that front. If Madubuike remains healthy, Baltimore should be able to stop the run without sacrificing its ability to pressure quarterbacks.
Ravens Wire: The interior offensive line is the primary concern. Baltimore will start Jovaughn Gwyn at center and rookie first-round pick Vega Ioane at right guard. Gwyn has never started an NFL game, while Ioane will make his regular-season debut against DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart. The Ravens are also installing Declan Doyle's offense, so communication and protection errors could occur early. Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry can cover plenty of weaknesses, but Indianapolis has the personnel to test that inexperienced interior.
#Ravens
10 days ago
Pakistan great Wasim Akram has expressed frustration over the country's continued struggles in Test cricket, arguing that the lack of quality batting talent emerging through the system has become a major concern.
Speaking to the media in Lahore on Friday, the former fast bowler said Pakistan's home-and-away Test series defeat to Bangladesh should have prompted the authorities to take immediate corrective measures. Instead, he felt little changed after what should have been a warning sign.
Akram pointed towards the Pakistan Super League (PSL), which has been running for a decade, and questioned whether the tournament had produced any significant batting talent for the national team.
"It has been 10 years since the PSL started, but has a single batter been produced by the PSL? Yes we have produced a few bowlers but tell me have we produced any noteworthy batting talent," he questioned.
Akram also highlighted the emergence of a 15-year-old batting talent in neighbouring India, an apparent reference to Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, as an example of the kind of player Pakistan needs to produce.
"I think when we produce a batting talent like the 14-year old then we will see improvement coming through," Akram said.
While he felt Pakistan remained competitive in white-ball cricket, the former pacer was far less optimistic about the team's position in the longer format, describing the state of Test cricket as "bad".
Akram also played down the importance of who takes charge as Pakistan's coach, saying that whether the PCB appoints him or Gary Kirsten, the fundamental challenge would remain because the coach would still be working with the same pool of players.
Rather than repeatedly changing personnel, Akram called for the PCB's domestic structure to be given time to produce results. He believes the system should be allowed to operate for three to four years, with patience and long-term planning essential to any improvement.
Akram admitted that he was just as disappointed as any other Pakistani by the team's recent performances.
"Club cricket needs to be revived if we want improvement in red ball cricket. The PCB should spend 100 million rupees each in Karachi and Lahore, as talent comes from club cricket."
He also called for greater consistency in the national side, pointing out that Pakistan have continued to rotate players without addressing the underlying problems.
He said there should be consistency in the team, but the players remain the same -- they just keep coming and going.
Pakistan's ongoing Test series in England also came under scrutiny, with Akram criticising the team's approach against the home bowlers.
"In England in the ongoing series they didn't move their front foot forward, playing bowlers like Ollie Robinson while standing rooted in the crease. You need to play with courage, but for that, talent is essential."
Akram also offered his ******* sment of Pakistan's fast-bowling resources, arguing that raw pa
Speaking to the media in Lahore on Friday, the former fast bowler said Pakistan's home-and-away Test series defeat to Bangladesh should have prompted the authorities to take immediate corrective measures. Instead, he felt little changed after what should have been a warning sign.
Akram pointed towards the Pakistan Super League (PSL), which has been running for a decade, and questioned whether the tournament had produced any significant batting talent for the national team.
"It has been 10 years since the PSL started, but has a single batter been produced by the PSL? Yes we have produced a few bowlers but tell me have we produced any noteworthy batting talent," he questioned.
Akram also highlighted the emergence of a 15-year-old batting talent in neighbouring India, an apparent reference to Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, as an example of the kind of player Pakistan needs to produce.
"I think when we produce a batting talent like the 14-year old then we will see improvement coming through," Akram said.
While he felt Pakistan remained competitive in white-ball cricket, the former pacer was far less optimistic about the team's position in the longer format, describing the state of Test cricket as "bad".
Akram also played down the importance of who takes charge as Pakistan's coach, saying that whether the PCB appoints him or Gary Kirsten, the fundamental challenge would remain because the coach would still be working with the same pool of players.
Rather than repeatedly changing personnel, Akram called for the PCB's domestic structure to be given time to produce results. He believes the system should be allowed to operate for three to four years, with patience and long-term planning essential to any improvement.
Akram admitted that he was just as disappointed as any other Pakistani by the team's recent performances.
"Club cricket needs to be revived if we want improvement in red ball cricket. The PCB should spend 100 million rupees each in Karachi and Lahore, as talent comes from club cricket."
He also called for greater consistency in the national side, pointing out that Pakistan have continued to rotate players without addressing the underlying problems.
He said there should be consistency in the team, but the players remain the same -- they just keep coming and going.
Pakistan's ongoing Test series in England also came under scrutiny, with Akram criticising the team's approach against the home bowlers.
"In England in the ongoing series they didn't move their front foot forward, playing bowlers like Ollie Robinson while standing rooted in the crease. You need to play with courage, but for that, talent is essential."
Akram also offered his ******* sment of Pakistan's fast-bowling resources, arguing that raw pa
11 days ago
The 2026 edition of the Bell Game between Pueblo Central and Pueblo Centennial played out on Friday at historic Dutch Clark Stadium.
The famous rivalry game started with a tribute to the country on the 25th anniversary of September 11. The teams, coaches, personnel and fans in the stadium all joined in a moment of silence to celebrate and honor all who were lost.
As far as the game goes, the Wildcats entered the game with a 1-1 record, having just beaten Discovery Canyon on the road 22-21. The Bulldogs came into the game suffering two back-to-back shutout losses and were looking to get back on track against their oldest rivals.
The Wildcats had a seven-game win streak in the Bell Game coming into this matchup, and that momentum would continue this year as they started the game off with a 15-yard touchdown run by Dontez Maes to go up 8-0.
Another touchdown run later in the first quarter by Sonny Vigil increased the score to 16-0. Maes added another in the second quarter and Cordell Hayes also scored in the second to make it a 30-0 game at half.
#bell #quarter
The famous rivalry game started with a tribute to the country on the 25th anniversary of September 11. The teams, coaches, personnel and fans in the stadium all joined in a moment of silence to celebrate and honor all who were lost.
As far as the game goes, the Wildcats entered the game with a 1-1 record, having just beaten Discovery Canyon on the road 22-21. The Bulldogs came into the game suffering two back-to-back shutout losses and were looking to get back on track against their oldest rivals.
The Wildcats had a seven-game win streak in the Bell Game coming into this matchup, and that momentum would continue this year as they started the game off with a 15-yard touchdown run by Dontez Maes to go up 8-0.
Another touchdown run later in the first quarter by Sonny Vigil increased the score to 16-0. Maes added another in the second quarter and Cordell Hayes also scored in the second to make it a 30-0 game at half.
#bell #quarter
11 days ago
When you are fighting injuries on both the offensive and defensive lines, the level of difficulty increases exponentially.
That is precisely what the Fowlerville Gladiators were dealing with in a 10-7 loss against Williamston on Friday, Sept. 11.
"They (the offensive line) stepped up great." Fowlerville coach Zack Douglass said. "We got a couple of guys back there who are still banged up a little bit we got guys back who are going to be trending in the right direction."
Defensively it was a similar story for Fowlerville.
"We had some injuries come up defensively," he said. "We have had a different defensive every single week this year. Usually, you get into a defensive and that is what you master and go forward with but because of personnel and what opponents are doing we are literally switching our fronts every single week so far."
#offensive #every #week
That is precisely what the Fowlerville Gladiators were dealing with in a 10-7 loss against Williamston on Friday, Sept. 11.
"They (the offensive line) stepped up great." Fowlerville coach Zack Douglass said. "We got a couple of guys back there who are still banged up a little bit we got guys back who are going to be trending in the right direction."
Defensively it was a similar story for Fowlerville.
"We had some injuries come up defensively," he said. "We have had a different defensive every single week this year. Usually, you get into a defensive and that is what you master and go forward with but because of personnel and what opponents are doing we are literally switching our fronts every single week so far."
#offensive #every #week
11 days ago
Arizona Cardinals tight end Trey McBride will play with a refined passion in 2026. With the 2025 season in his rearview mirror and the Los Angeles Chargers ahead, McBride is hoping that his passion and premier pass-catching can spark the beginning of a new chapter for the franchise.
The Chargers lost defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, who moved on to a head coaching position with the Baltimore Ravens. Still, Chargers safety Derwin James Jr. is on the roster and his skillset poses a significant opposition for McBride. Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur still has plans on making McBride the focus of the team offense and it'll come down to pure will to determine whether or not McBride can muscle up.
The Cardinals seem to have a competent offensive personnel group at the skills positions but time will tell how their offensive line fares in 2026. Play-action and the quick passing game are both strategies where LaFleur and offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett are likely to call on McBride's jersey number. McBride is quick and physical, plus his route running makes him a mismatch for most opposing linebackers and safeties.
Ultimately, if the Cardinals are to stand a chance on Sunday, they will rely on their passing attack to propel the offense and that'll mean that McBride must be exceptionally magnificent. The Chargers allowed just 19.8 points per game in 2025, but without the mastermind of Minter, McBride might locate a few breaches that can be exploited.
Get more Cardinals and NFL coverage from Cards Wire's Jess Root and others by listening to the latest on the Rise Up, See Red podcast. Subscribe on Spotify, YouTube or Apple Podcasts.
#play #passion #coordinator
The Chargers lost defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, who moved on to a head coaching position with the Baltimore Ravens. Still, Chargers safety Derwin James Jr. is on the roster and his skillset poses a significant opposition for McBride. Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur still has plans on making McBride the focus of the team offense and it'll come down to pure will to determine whether or not McBride can muscle up.
The Cardinals seem to have a competent offensive personnel group at the skills positions but time will tell how their offensive line fares in 2026. Play-action and the quick passing game are both strategies where LaFleur and offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett are likely to call on McBride's jersey number. McBride is quick and physical, plus his route running makes him a mismatch for most opposing linebackers and safeties.
Ultimately, if the Cardinals are to stand a chance on Sunday, they will rely on their passing attack to propel the offense and that'll mean that McBride must be exceptionally magnificent. The Chargers allowed just 19.8 points per game in 2025, but without the mastermind of Minter, McBride might locate a few breaches that can be exploited.
Get more Cardinals and NFL coverage from Cards Wire's Jess Root and others by listening to the latest on the Rise Up, See Red podcast. Subscribe on Spotify, YouTube or Apple Podcasts.
#play #passion #coordinator
11 days ago
First Citizens BancShares, Inc. (NASDAQ:FCNCA), through its First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company subsidiary, completed the acquisition of 138 BMO Bank N.A. branches on September 4. The locations span 11 states across the Midwest, Great Plains and West.
The completion announcement did not disclose final transferred balances. At the announcement, First Citizens BancShares, Inc. (NASDAQ:FCNCA) expected to ****** ume approximately $5.7 billion of deposits and acquire $1.1 billion of loans. Its July 2026 update lowered those estimates to $5.3 billion and $700 million, respectively. Both estimates imply roughly $4.6 billion of net liquidity. That difference represents funding capacity, not transaction income, and remains subject to final balances and acquisition accounting.
The deposit franchise could be the transaction's most valuable ****** et. At announcement, the acquired deposits carried a weighted average rate of 1.43%, with 21% in noninterest-bearing demand accounts. First Citizens BancShares, Inc. (NASDAQ:FCNCA) reported a 2.07% average total deposit cost in the second quarter of 2026. Retaining the acquired accounts near their original pricing could lower the consolidated funding cost.
The 138 branches also establish or deepen a presence across 11 states. The original transaction presentation identified approximately $1.0 billion of wealth ****** ets under management, creating opportunities to cross-sell commercial lending, treasury services, and wealth products. Retaining branch personnel could help preserve local relationships.
First Citizens BancShares, Inc. (NASDAQ:FCNCA) can deploy the surplus funding in several ways. As of June 30, 2026, the company held $151.03 billion of loans and $32.19 billion of borrowings, including a $28.42 billion purchase money note owed to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The acquired liquidity could support loan growth, replace more expensive funding, or be invested in securities. The original presentation projected immediate earnings-per-share accretion and an approximately 27-basis-point reduction in the Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio.
#billion #first #citizens
The completion announcement did not disclose final transferred balances. At the announcement, First Citizens BancShares, Inc. (NASDAQ:FCNCA) expected to ****** ume approximately $5.7 billion of deposits and acquire $1.1 billion of loans. Its July 2026 update lowered those estimates to $5.3 billion and $700 million, respectively. Both estimates imply roughly $4.6 billion of net liquidity. That difference represents funding capacity, not transaction income, and remains subject to final balances and acquisition accounting.
The deposit franchise could be the transaction's most valuable ****** et. At announcement, the acquired deposits carried a weighted average rate of 1.43%, with 21% in noninterest-bearing demand accounts. First Citizens BancShares, Inc. (NASDAQ:FCNCA) reported a 2.07% average total deposit cost in the second quarter of 2026. Retaining the acquired accounts near their original pricing could lower the consolidated funding cost.
The 138 branches also establish or deepen a presence across 11 states. The original transaction presentation identified approximately $1.0 billion of wealth ****** ets under management, creating opportunities to cross-sell commercial lending, treasury services, and wealth products. Retaining branch personnel could help preserve local relationships.
First Citizens BancShares, Inc. (NASDAQ:FCNCA) can deploy the surplus funding in several ways. As of June 30, 2026, the company held $151.03 billion of loans and $32.19 billion of borrowings, including a $28.42 billion purchase money note owed to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The acquired liquidity could support loan growth, replace more expensive funding, or be invested in securities. The original presentation projected immediate earnings-per-share accretion and an approximately 27-basis-point reduction in the Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio.
#billion #first #citizens
11 days ago
By Nate Raymond
BOSTON, Sept 11 (Reuters) - A federal judge on Friday blocked U.S. President Donald Trump's administration from continuing to ask applicants for civil service jobs throughout the government to respond to what unions described as a partisan "loyalty question."
U.S. District Judge George O'Toole in Boston sided with three unions representing government workers who sued last year after the administration began asking applicants for nonpartisan federal jobs to write essays explaining how they would help advance Trump's policies and executive orders.
The unions, including the American Federation of Government Employees, argued the question mandated by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) unlawfully politicized the hiring process for career government workers by attempting to **** s their support for the Republican president.
O'Toole, an appointee of Democratic President Bill Clinton, said the question had been asked of applicants to positions ranging from an air traffic control specialist to a crane operator to a nuclear materials courier.
#applicants #unions #question #boston
BOSTON, Sept 11 (Reuters) - A federal judge on Friday blocked U.S. President Donald Trump's administration from continuing to ask applicants for civil service jobs throughout the government to respond to what unions described as a partisan "loyalty question."
U.S. District Judge George O'Toole in Boston sided with three unions representing government workers who sued last year after the administration began asking applicants for nonpartisan federal jobs to write essays explaining how they would help advance Trump's policies and executive orders.
The unions, including the American Federation of Government Employees, argued the question mandated by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) unlawfully politicized the hiring process for career government workers by attempting to **** s their support for the Republican president.
O'Toole, an appointee of Democratic President Bill Clinton, said the question had been asked of applicants to positions ranging from an air traffic control specialist to a crane operator to a nuclear materials courier.
#applicants #unions #question #boston
11 days ago
Union Berlin head coach Mauro **** rinelli acknowledged that his side's continued defensive problems extend well beyond one system or one centre-back partnership after Friday evening's 1-3 home defeat against Schalke 04. The result leaves Union with one point from their opening three Bundesliga fixtures and, considerably more concerningly, ten goals conceded.
Lustrinelli's side opened the campaign with a chaotic 3-3 draw against Eintracht Frankfurt before suffering a comprehensive 4-0 away defeat at Bayer Leverkusen last weekend. Schalke then became the third consecutive opponent to exploit a defensive unit still attempting to adjust to significant tactical and personnel changes.
"It's a lot of small things," **** rinelli told Sky Germany when asked about the ten goals conceded. "We're too undisciplined. We're not keeping up with the opponent. And the opponent profits. They exploit it. And we need too many chances to score goals. The two things are decisive over the course of 90 minutes."
The warning signs predate the Bundesliga campaign.
GGFN highlighted Union's defensive instability throughout preseason, with **** rinelli experimenting with multiple formations while attempting to move the club away from the three-centre-back structures that had defined the era of Urs Fischer and his successors.
#goals #bundesliga #centre
Lustrinelli's side opened the campaign with a chaotic 3-3 draw against Eintracht Frankfurt before suffering a comprehensive 4-0 away defeat at Bayer Leverkusen last weekend. Schalke then became the third consecutive opponent to exploit a defensive unit still attempting to adjust to significant tactical and personnel changes.
"It's a lot of small things," **** rinelli told Sky Germany when asked about the ten goals conceded. "We're too undisciplined. We're not keeping up with the opponent. And the opponent profits. They exploit it. And we need too many chances to score goals. The two things are decisive over the course of 90 minutes."
The warning signs predate the Bundesliga campaign.
GGFN highlighted Union's defensive instability throughout preseason, with **** rinelli experimenting with multiple formations while attempting to move the club away from the three-centre-back structures that had defined the era of Urs Fischer and his successors.
#goals #bundesliga #centre
11 days ago
The NFL has suspended free agent linebacker Xavier Thomas for the first three weeks of the season, according to the league's personnel notice.
It is unclear why the NFL suspended Thomas.
Thomas, 26, was waived from injured reserve by the 49ers on Aug. 26.
He spent time in the offseason with the Texans before reaching an injury settlement with the team May 20. He signed with the 49ers on Aug. 12.
The Cardinals picked Thomas in the fifth round in 2024, and he played 14 games as a rookie and four last season.
#xavier #texans #agent
It is unclear why the NFL suspended Thomas.
Thomas, 26, was waived from injured reserve by the 49ers on Aug. 26.
He spent time in the offseason with the Texans before reaching an injury settlement with the team May 20. He signed with the 49ers on Aug. 12.
The Cardinals picked Thomas in the fifth round in 2024, and he played 14 games as a rookie and four last season.
#xavier #texans #agent
11 days ago
Kris Jenner's security team detained a man suspected of stalking her before he could reach her Los Angeles-area property.
Zenwilliam Robson, 25, was detained near Jenner's Calabasas-area residence on Monday, Sept. 7, after security personnel spotted him in the neighborhood. Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department deputies subsequently arrested him on suspicion of stalking.
Robson was ultimately charged with one misdemeanor count of trespassing and refusing to leave private property.
Jenner's security personnel told authorities that he had allegedly tried to contact the 70-year-old reality star and businesswoman several times before the latest incident.
The encounter happened Monday evening in the area surrounding Jenner's home in the Santa Monica Mountains northwest of Los Angeles.
#area #detained
Zenwilliam Robson, 25, was detained near Jenner's Calabasas-area residence on Monday, Sept. 7, after security personnel spotted him in the neighborhood. Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department deputies subsequently arrested him on suspicion of stalking.
Robson was ultimately charged with one misdemeanor count of trespassing and refusing to leave private property.
Jenner's security personnel told authorities that he had allegedly tried to contact the 70-year-old reality star and businesswoman several times before the latest incident.
The encounter happened Monday evening in the area surrounding Jenner's home in the Santa Monica Mountains northwest of Los Angeles.
#area #detained
11 days ago
By Steve Holland and David Shepardson
WASHINGTON, Sept 9 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump departed Washington for Texas on Wednesday aboard the Air Force One plane gifted by Qatar after an emergency slide was accidentally deployed and was removed.
Military personnel accidentally triggered the slide, a person briefed on the matter told Reuters.
The slide was activated shortly before Trump was due to board for a flight to Dallas for the first-ever Republican midterm convention. The issue briefly delayed Trump's departure.
Asked by a journalist whether he was sure that the plane was safe to fly, Trump said: "Yeah, I am, or I wouldn't be on it."
#slide #steve #holland
WASHINGTON, Sept 9 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump departed Washington for Texas on Wednesday aboard the Air Force One plane gifted by Qatar after an emergency slide was accidentally deployed and was removed.
Military personnel accidentally triggered the slide, a person briefed on the matter told Reuters.
The slide was activated shortly before Trump was due to board for a flight to Dallas for the first-ever Republican midterm convention. The issue briefly delayed Trump's departure.
Asked by a journalist whether he was sure that the plane was safe to fly, Trump said: "Yeah, I am, or I wouldn't be on it."
#slide #steve #holland
12 days ago
Hello! I'm back this year with BGN, as always, and I'll have two review articles and two preview articles every week. If you missed the first preview of the year, make sure you check it out here.
The same Week 1 warning applies here. Washington's new offensive coordinator, David Blough, has never called an NFL offense, so there is no real film that tells us exactly what Vic Fangio will be preparing for. We can make educated guesses based on Blough's background and what Blough has said publicly, but anyone claiming to know precisely what this offense will look like is guessing.
It's really hard for me not to spend the whole article comparing Sean Mannion and David Blough, but the similarities are so obvious. Blough only stopped playing quarterback recently and spent the past two seasons as Washington's ******* istant quarterbacks coach under Kingsbury. Before that, his playing career put him around a wide range of offensive coaches, including Ben Johnson in Detroit and Kevin O'Connell in Minnesota. Washington has also been open about wanting to move away from some of the philosophical elements of Kingsbury's offense, particularly by becoming more balanced and using more under-center play action. Sound familiar?!
Blough's challenge is deciding how much to change. Daniels has already spent two seasons getting comfortable in Kingsbury's system, particularly operating from shotgun, using tempo, and using his legs a lot. Daniels looks like someone suited to a shotgun, spread-heavy RPO offense.
Throwing all of that away would make very little sense. At the same time, Washington didn't change coordinators because it wanted the exact same offense, so I would expect the eventual structure to keep some of the shotgun and RPO elements Daniels already excels at while adding more motion, heavier personnel, under-center formations, and a more connected run and play-action game. Once again… sound familiar?!
#offense #same #washington
The same Week 1 warning applies here. Washington's new offensive coordinator, David Blough, has never called an NFL offense, so there is no real film that tells us exactly what Vic Fangio will be preparing for. We can make educated guesses based on Blough's background and what Blough has said publicly, but anyone claiming to know precisely what this offense will look like is guessing.
It's really hard for me not to spend the whole article comparing Sean Mannion and David Blough, but the similarities are so obvious. Blough only stopped playing quarterback recently and spent the past two seasons as Washington's ******* istant quarterbacks coach under Kingsbury. Before that, his playing career put him around a wide range of offensive coaches, including Ben Johnson in Detroit and Kevin O'Connell in Minnesota. Washington has also been open about wanting to move away from some of the philosophical elements of Kingsbury's offense, particularly by becoming more balanced and using more under-center play action. Sound familiar?!
Blough's challenge is deciding how much to change. Daniels has already spent two seasons getting comfortable in Kingsbury's system, particularly operating from shotgun, using tempo, and using his legs a lot. Daniels looks like someone suited to a shotgun, spread-heavy RPO offense.
Throwing all of that away would make very little sense. At the same time, Washington didn't change coordinators because it wanted the exact same offense, so I would expect the eventual structure to keep some of the shotgun and RPO elements Daniels already excels at while adding more motion, heavier personnel, under-center formations, and a more connected run and play-action game. Once again… sound familiar?!
#offense #same #washington
0.00$ raised of 0.00$ goal
0 donations
0.00$
to go
12 days ago
The Los Angeles Rams and the San Francisco 49ers are ready to renew their annual rivalry, this time with both team's kicking off their season in Melbourne, Australia. While the location has many excited about the game, along with the rivalry's intensity, these three storylines are ones to watch.
This is a multi-layered question due to Kyle Shanahan's offensive brilliance, along with how his scheme has populated the league. The immediate questions revolve around the Rams' defense and whether they have the tools to contain Shanahan's zone-blocking scheme. On top of that, do they have the ability to stop Shanahan's layered passing attack, in which he uses short underneath passes to open up the rest of the field?
Schematics aside, the Seahawks and Cardinals also utilize Shanahan's offensive scheme, as their offensive play-callers are ex-Shanahan ****** istants.
Then, we have to account for Shanahan's tactical brilliance. If I'm Shanahan, I'm using the early portions of the game to figure out how the Rams match up against San Francisco's multi-tight end personnel, and once Chris Shula deploys multiple linebackers, the 49ers should use a fast-tempo offense to take advantage of the Rams' linebackers having to cover ****** e while depleting their energy, with the Rams being unable to substitute.
Shanahan has tricks like that in his bag to control the pen. Is Shula finally wise enough not to fall for it?
#Rams #offensive #scheme #brilliance
This is a multi-layered question due to Kyle Shanahan's offensive brilliance, along with how his scheme has populated the league. The immediate questions revolve around the Rams' defense and whether they have the tools to contain Shanahan's zone-blocking scheme. On top of that, do they have the ability to stop Shanahan's layered passing attack, in which he uses short underneath passes to open up the rest of the field?
Schematics aside, the Seahawks and Cardinals also utilize Shanahan's offensive scheme, as their offensive play-callers are ex-Shanahan ****** istants.
Then, we have to account for Shanahan's tactical brilliance. If I'm Shanahan, I'm using the early portions of the game to figure out how the Rams match up against San Francisco's multi-tight end personnel, and once Chris Shula deploys multiple linebackers, the 49ers should use a fast-tempo offense to take advantage of the Rams' linebackers having to cover ****** e while depleting their energy, with the Rams being unable to substitute.
Shanahan has tricks like that in his bag to control the pen. Is Shula finally wise enough not to fall for it?
#Rams #offensive #scheme #brilliance
0.00$ raised of 0.00$ goal
0 donations
0.00$
to go
12 days ago
On August 5, Cytek Biosciences (NASDAQ:CTKB) reported financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, and the report reads like two different companies at once. Revenue climbed, margins widened, and the installed base of instruments kept expanding. At the same time, the net loss more than doubled from a year earlier and adjusted EBITDA swung negative. For a company selling hardware into cell ***** ysis labs, that split between growing revenue and growing losses is the story investors need to untangle.
Total revenue reached $48.1 million in the second quarter of 2026, up 6% from the second quarter of 2025, and the growth came from more than one source. Cytek expanded its installed base to 3,933 instruments as of June 30, 2026, adding 142 units in the quarter, and each new machine tends to pull in service and reagent sales over time. That dynamic already shows up in the numbers: recurring revenue from service and reagents hit $18.5 million in the quarter, and on a trailing 12-month basis it now makes up 35% of total revenue, up from 32% a year earlier.
Gross profit told a similar story, climbing 19% to $28.3 million, with GAAP gross margin rising to 59% from 52% and adjusted gross margin reaching 61% from 56%. Some of that lift came from a one-time tariff refund, but even stripped of it, adjusted gross margin still improved to 56%. Cytek also launched the Borealis, a 7-laser flow cytometer built for 60-color panels, and rolled out more automated configurations of its Aurora Evo line, giving the sales team new hardware to sell into the rest of 2026. Full-year revenue guidance moved up to a range of $207 million to $212 million, raising the midpoint by $1 million.
The same quarter that grew revenue also widened the losses. Operating expenses rose 15% year over year to $39.7 million, with general and administrative costs jumping 24% to $16.8 million because of litigation-related expenses, severance, and other personnel costs. R&D spending grew 10% to $9.7 million, and sales and marketing rose 9% to $13.2 million, so the increase was not confined to one line item. The loss from operations widened to $11.4 million from $10.6 million a year earlier, and net loss more than doubled to $12.2 million from $5.6 million.
Adjusted EBITDA, which strips out stock-based compensation and currency swings, swung to a $1.5 million loss from a positive $1.3 million a year earlier, after also adjusting for a write-off tied to an early-stage technology investment. The tariff refund that boosted this quarter's headline gross margin also means the underlying figures, 53% GAAP and 56% adjusted, are the more honest baseline going forward. Cash and marketable securities held roughly flat at $262.0 million as of June 30, 2026, down only slightly from $262.2 million three months earlier, so the balance sheet has not yet felt the strain.
#quarter #adjusted
Total revenue reached $48.1 million in the second quarter of 2026, up 6% from the second quarter of 2025, and the growth came from more than one source. Cytek expanded its installed base to 3,933 instruments as of June 30, 2026, adding 142 units in the quarter, and each new machine tends to pull in service and reagent sales over time. That dynamic already shows up in the numbers: recurring revenue from service and reagents hit $18.5 million in the quarter, and on a trailing 12-month basis it now makes up 35% of total revenue, up from 32% a year earlier.
Gross profit told a similar story, climbing 19% to $28.3 million, with GAAP gross margin rising to 59% from 52% and adjusted gross margin reaching 61% from 56%. Some of that lift came from a one-time tariff refund, but even stripped of it, adjusted gross margin still improved to 56%. Cytek also launched the Borealis, a 7-laser flow cytometer built for 60-color panels, and rolled out more automated configurations of its Aurora Evo line, giving the sales team new hardware to sell into the rest of 2026. Full-year revenue guidance moved up to a range of $207 million to $212 million, raising the midpoint by $1 million.
The same quarter that grew revenue also widened the losses. Operating expenses rose 15% year over year to $39.7 million, with general and administrative costs jumping 24% to $16.8 million because of litigation-related expenses, severance, and other personnel costs. R&D spending grew 10% to $9.7 million, and sales and marketing rose 9% to $13.2 million, so the increase was not confined to one line item. The loss from operations widened to $11.4 million from $10.6 million a year earlier, and net loss more than doubled to $12.2 million from $5.6 million.
Adjusted EBITDA, which strips out stock-based compensation and currency swings, swung to a $1.5 million loss from a positive $1.3 million a year earlier, after also adjusting for a write-off tied to an early-stage technology investment. The tariff refund that boosted this quarter's headline gross margin also means the underlying figures, 53% GAAP and 56% adjusted, are the more honest baseline going forward. Cash and marketable securities held roughly flat at $262.0 million as of June 30, 2026, down only slightly from $262.2 million three months earlier, so the balance sheet has not yet felt the strain.
#quarter #adjusted
0.00$ raised of 0.00$ goal
0 donations
0.00$
to go
14 days ago
The Philadelphia Eagles are less than ten days away from opening up the 2026 regular season, and it wouldn't be shocking to see the defense far ahead of a revamped offensive unit. Vic Fangio's defense is among the NFL's best, and his personnel will change with the situation, making a traditional 11-player depth chart less useful than identifying his primary packages.
Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, and Moro Ojomo should anchor the defensive line, with Ty Robinson and Byron Young rotating heavily enough to receive meaningful snaps. Carter will remain the interior pass-rush centerpiece, while Davis' conditioning should allow him to handle another substantial workload.
Nolan Smith is projected to start on one edge. Jonathan Greenard was acquired to start opposite him, but his uncertain Week 1 availability could push Jalyx Hunt into the opening lineup. Epenesa and Ebiketie provide experienced rotational depth. Zack Baun and Jihaad Campbell give the Eagles two linebackers capable of rushing, covering, and defending the run. Trotter should remain involved, particularly in packages that allow Campbell to move toward the line of scrimmage.
Riq Woolen and Quinyon Mitchell project as the outside cornerbacks, with Cooper DeJean operating from the slot. DeJean's versatility also allows Fangio to move him to safety and insert Carter into the nickel role. Mukuba and Epps are the projected starting safeties, but Philadelphia's actual secondary could contain six defensive backs on obvious passing downs.
The depth gives Fangio several options. The primary Week 1 question is whether Philadelphia can generate enough edge pressure if Greenard is unavailable.
#fangio
Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, and Moro Ojomo should anchor the defensive line, with Ty Robinson and Byron Young rotating heavily enough to receive meaningful snaps. Carter will remain the interior pass-rush centerpiece, while Davis' conditioning should allow him to handle another substantial workload.
Nolan Smith is projected to start on one edge. Jonathan Greenard was acquired to start opposite him, but his uncertain Week 1 availability could push Jalyx Hunt into the opening lineup. Epenesa and Ebiketie provide experienced rotational depth. Zack Baun and Jihaad Campbell give the Eagles two linebackers capable of rushing, covering, and defending the run. Trotter should remain involved, particularly in packages that allow Campbell to move toward the line of scrimmage.
Riq Woolen and Quinyon Mitchell project as the outside cornerbacks, with Cooper DeJean operating from the slot. DeJean's versatility also allows Fangio to move him to safety and insert Carter into the nickel role. Mukuba and Epps are the projected starting safeties, but Philadelphia's actual secondary could contain six defensive backs on obvious passing downs.
The depth gives Fangio several options. The primary Week 1 question is whether Philadelphia can generate enough edge pressure if Greenard is unavailable.
#fangio
14 days ago
Sept 8 (Reuters) - Russia's defence ministry wants to claim back part of a one-off payout from contract service personnel found guilty of criminal offences at home, a document showed, amid increasing cases of domestic violence among those fighting Russia's war on Ukraine.
Russia provides a minimum one-off payment of 400,000 roubles ($4,640) for soldiers signing at least a one-year contract to fight in the war with Ukraine that Moscow calls "a special military operation". Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.
In practice, one-off payouts may reach a few million roubles per soldier, depending on the region, in addition to a monthly salary. Russia is also reducing sentences for those serving time in prison in exchange for signing up for the war, among other benefits, as it seeks to bolster army numbers.
Russia has seen a rise in domestic violence as fighters return home for leave, and the defence ministry wants to claim part of the one-off payments "in order to increase the motivation of military personnel to comply with the law", in case of a criminal offence, a draft law published on Monday showed.
If active contract service members are found guilty of a criminal offence which does not imply a prison sentence, they should pay back a portion of the one-off payout based on the months of the service left, the document showed.
#defence
Russia provides a minimum one-off payment of 400,000 roubles ($4,640) for soldiers signing at least a one-year contract to fight in the war with Ukraine that Moscow calls "a special military operation". Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.
In practice, one-off payouts may reach a few million roubles per soldier, depending on the region, in addition to a monthly salary. Russia is also reducing sentences for those serving time in prison in exchange for signing up for the war, among other benefits, as it seeks to bolster army numbers.
Russia has seen a rise in domestic violence as fighters return home for leave, and the defence ministry wants to claim part of the one-off payments "in order to increase the motivation of military personnel to comply with the law", in case of a criminal offence, a draft law published on Monday showed.
If active contract service members are found guilty of a criminal offence which does not imply a prison sentence, they should pay back a portion of the one-off payout based on the months of the service left, the document showed.
#defence
14 days ago
Sept 7 - The US National Transportation Safety Board will hold a media briefing at 4 p.m. EDT (2000 GMT) on Monday to share its latest updates about Sunday's deadly Amazon Prime Air cargo plane crash at Miami International Airport, the agency said in a post on X.
Prime Air Flight 7598 overran the airport's diagonal runway shortly before 2 p.m. EDT and struck multiple vehicles on the ground, killing 5 people and injuring 5 more, including 3 who are in critical condition, officials said during a news conference on Sunday afternoon.
At least two people were trapped in vehicles that were struck by the plane, and the pilot and co-pilot were trapped inside the plane by the crash, said Miami-Dade Fire Chief Ray Jadallah.
More than 60 rescue units and about 200 personnel responded to the incident, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue said in a statement. As of late Sunday afternoon, emergency personnel were still dealing with a fuel leak from the aircraft, according to Jadallah.
The NTSB said in a post on X on Sunday afternoon that it had "launched a go team" to investigate the accident.
#prime
Prime Air Flight 7598 overran the airport's diagonal runway shortly before 2 p.m. EDT and struck multiple vehicles on the ground, killing 5 people and injuring 5 more, including 3 who are in critical condition, officials said during a news conference on Sunday afternoon.
At least two people were trapped in vehicles that were struck by the plane, and the pilot and co-pilot were trapped inside the plane by the crash, said Miami-Dade Fire Chief Ray Jadallah.
More than 60 rescue units and about 200 personnel responded to the incident, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue said in a statement. As of late Sunday afternoon, emergency personnel were still dealing with a fuel leak from the aircraft, according to Jadallah.
The NTSB said in a post on X on Sunday afternoon that it had "launched a go team" to investigate the accident.
#prime
14 days ago
Michael Reschke believes Max Eberl has done enough to justify his new contract at Bayern Munich, and his ***** sment carries plenty of weight given his own history at the club.
Reschke joined Bayern Munich in 2014 as the club's first technical director, following 35 years at Bayer Leverkusen. He spent three seasons in Munich before leaving in 2017 to become sporting director at VfB Stuttgart. During his time with Bayern Munich, he was heavily involved in squad building and scouting.
Now, Reschke is backing Eberl after Bayern Munich extended his contract through 2029.
"If I look purely at Max's record, then we have a top team that plays exciting football. He's brought in one of the best coaches in the world, someone you simply have to admire, and who is a gift to FC Bayern. Overall, his transfer policy is sound. That there are internal discussions about one or two personnel decisions is just business as usual at a club like FC Bayern. The squad is extremely well-planned and of the highest European standard. There's a lot I really like about it," Reschke told Abendzeitung.
Reschke's argument is ultimately about looking at the bigger picture.
#bayern #like
Reschke joined Bayern Munich in 2014 as the club's first technical director, following 35 years at Bayer Leverkusen. He spent three seasons in Munich before leaving in 2017 to become sporting director at VfB Stuttgart. During his time with Bayern Munich, he was heavily involved in squad building and scouting.
Now, Reschke is backing Eberl after Bayern Munich extended his contract through 2029.
"If I look purely at Max's record, then we have a top team that plays exciting football. He's brought in one of the best coaches in the world, someone you simply have to admire, and who is a gift to FC Bayern. Overall, his transfer policy is sound. That there are internal discussions about one or two personnel decisions is just business as usual at a club like FC Bayern. The squad is extremely well-planned and of the highest European standard. There's a lot I really like about it," Reschke told Abendzeitung.
Reschke's argument is ultimately about looking at the bigger picture.
#bayern #like