3 hours ago
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Seahawks fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
The Seattle Seahawks don't have a starting quarterback debate right now. What a relief to finally say that after enduring "Geno Smith vs. Drew Lock and "Can Sam Howell be the guy?" in those first three post-Russell Wilson seasons. This is Sam Darnold's team until further notice.
But this week's Seahawks Reacts survey question and poll is all about second-year quarterback Jalen Milroe, whose rookie season intrigue fizzled out by Week 5 after an ill-fated option play led to a turnover. The former Alabama star was restricted to third-team offense throughout training camp and preseason, slotting in as the third-string quarterback behind Darnold and Drew Lock.
Sam Darnold's continued success lessens the quarterback worries for now, but it's still fair to wonder how Milroe's development will come along. Is he somehow going to make enough strides to be QB2 over veteran Drew Lock and his expiring contract? Or will he once again be QB3 and subject to some healthy scratches? Could he be QB3 but still feature in the offense more often? Worst case scenario (for him): Is his Seahawks tenure already in jeopardy?
Vote in the poll below! What lies ahead for Milroe entering Week 1? Note that "starting QB" is not an option because we live in the real world and it would take extraordinary circumstances for him to earn the starting spot this year.
#lock #fans #year #milroe
The Seattle Seahawks don't have a starting quarterback debate right now. What a relief to finally say that after enduring "Geno Smith vs. Drew Lock and "Can Sam Howell be the guy?" in those first three post-Russell Wilson seasons. This is Sam Darnold's team until further notice.
But this week's Seahawks Reacts survey question and poll is all about second-year quarterback Jalen Milroe, whose rookie season intrigue fizzled out by Week 5 after an ill-fated option play led to a turnover. The former Alabama star was restricted to third-team offense throughout training camp and preseason, slotting in as the third-string quarterback behind Darnold and Drew Lock.
Sam Darnold's continued success lessens the quarterback worries for now, but it's still fair to wonder how Milroe's development will come along. Is he somehow going to make enough strides to be QB2 over veteran Drew Lock and his expiring contract? Or will he once again be QB3 and subject to some healthy scratches? Could he be QB3 but still feature in the offense more often? Worst case scenario (for him): Is his Seahawks tenure already in jeopardy?
Vote in the poll below! What lies ahead for Milroe entering Week 1? Note that "starting QB" is not an option because we live in the real world and it would take extraordinary circumstances for him to earn the starting spot this year.
#lock #fans #year #milroe
5 hours ago
The New York Yankees offense is struggling right now, and Cody Bellinger's injury only makes things worse.
The Yankees are currently without Aaron Judge, Bellinger and Giancarlo Stanton. On top of that, they seem to have no actual solution for third base and shortstop, where Anthony Volpe and Ryan McMahon continue to struggle. Knowing Judge, Bellinger and Stanton could return soon, the Yankees are unlikely to add a superstar outfielder or designated hitter. However, adding an infielder could do wonders for the offense if that infielder were Luis Arraez.
Luckily for the Yankees, the San Francisco Giants will be sellers at the deadline, and Arraez is a rental they could look to deal away. He is hitting .326 with an .811 OPS on the year. He has improved his slugging while maintaining a high average. Not to mention, he is having an elite year defensively at second base. Defense was always seen as a downside for Arraez, but that is not the case this year.
How would Arraez fit in on the Yankees? Well, for starters, he would slot in at second base. That would allow the Yankees to move Chisholm to third base or shortstop, getting rid of either Volpe or McMahon as a regular. McMahon has already started to lose at-bats, so perhaps it's time the Yankees make a permanent change.
Looking for the perfect gift for a baseball player in your life? Check out our brand new baseball lifestyle brand!
#stanton #volpe #offense
The Yankees are currently without Aaron Judge, Bellinger and Giancarlo Stanton. On top of that, they seem to have no actual solution for third base and shortstop, where Anthony Volpe and Ryan McMahon continue to struggle. Knowing Judge, Bellinger and Stanton could return soon, the Yankees are unlikely to add a superstar outfielder or designated hitter. However, adding an infielder could do wonders for the offense if that infielder were Luis Arraez.
Luckily for the Yankees, the San Francisco Giants will be sellers at the deadline, and Arraez is a rental they could look to deal away. He is hitting .326 with an .811 OPS on the year. He has improved his slugging while maintaining a high average. Not to mention, he is having an elite year defensively at second base. Defense was always seen as a downside for Arraez, but that is not the case this year.
How would Arraez fit in on the Yankees? Well, for starters, he would slot in at second base. That would allow the Yankees to move Chisholm to third base or shortstop, getting rid of either Volpe or McMahon as a regular. McMahon has already started to lose at-bats, so perhaps it's time the Yankees make a permanent change.
Looking for the perfect gift for a baseball player in your life? Check out our brand new baseball lifestyle brand!
#stanton #volpe #offense
5 hours ago
Evan Williams is one of the Green Bay Packers' biggest draft success stories in recent times as a fourth-round pick who had an impact on their defense almost immediately as a rookie and has since settled in as a valued starter.
Not one of the more heralded draft prospects, the Packers traded up to get Williams back in 2024 and were proven right in their conviction on the former Oregon and Fresno State safety.
After a strong first year, Williams followed it up in 2025, as shown by his percentile ranks at the safety position in his first and second seasons.
Williams only started seven games as a rookie, as he was originally behind Javon Bullard, before he made the move to the slot. From there, Williams never gave up the starting safety spot opposite Xavier McKinney, starting all but one game in 2025.
His snap count almost doubled from 533 to 979 between his first and second year, and even with the larger workload, there was no dip in Williams' performance.
#draft
Not one of the more heralded draft prospects, the Packers traded up to get Williams back in 2024 and were proven right in their conviction on the former Oregon and Fresno State safety.
After a strong first year, Williams followed it up in 2025, as shown by his percentile ranks at the safety position in his first and second seasons.
Williams only started seven games as a rookie, as he was originally behind Javon Bullard, before he made the move to the slot. From there, Williams never gave up the starting safety spot opposite Xavier McKinney, starting all but one game in 2025.
His snap count almost doubled from 533 to 979 between his first and second year, and even with the larger workload, there was no dip in Williams' performance.
#draft
6 hours ago
The company spent the past year going from survival questions to one of the market's biggest gainers, which makes its retreat from the high the more interesting story.
What Changed To Send Intel (INTC) Up More Than Fourfold?
Over the past year, Intel stock more than quadrupled, climbing about 308%, while the broader market managed nearly 18%. The move was not built on hope. By the company's own account, the conversation flipped from whether Intel could survive to how fast it can add capacity to keep up with demand. Revenue over the last twelve months reached about $57 billion and grew 7.5%, an acceleration from a three-year average near 2%. The businesses tied to AI now make up about 60% of revenue and grew 40% year over year, and management says the CPU is reclaiming ground inside AI systems, with the ratio of processors to accelerators shifting from one-in-eight toward one-in-four.
Is This Just The AI Chip Trade Lifting Everything?
Only partly. AMD rode the same wave and roughly tripled, up about 222%, but Nvidia gained only about 19% and Qualcomm about 7% over the same stretch, a fraction of that. The gains concentrated in the two biggest movers, and Intel outran even AMD. What set it apart was progress in its own factories: management says its 18A manufacturing process is yielding ahead of internal plans, and the company has pointed to multiyear deals with customers such as Google, a slot for its Xeon server chips inside Nvidia's flagship AI systems, and a headline tie-up with Elon Musk's ventures.
#year #inside
What Changed To Send Intel (INTC) Up More Than Fourfold?
Over the past year, Intel stock more than quadrupled, climbing about 308%, while the broader market managed nearly 18%. The move was not built on hope. By the company's own account, the conversation flipped from whether Intel could survive to how fast it can add capacity to keep up with demand. Revenue over the last twelve months reached about $57 billion and grew 7.5%, an acceleration from a three-year average near 2%. The businesses tied to AI now make up about 60% of revenue and grew 40% year over year, and management says the CPU is reclaiming ground inside AI systems, with the ratio of processors to accelerators shifting from one-in-eight toward one-in-four.
Is This Just The AI Chip Trade Lifting Everything?
Only partly. AMD rode the same wave and roughly tripled, up about 222%, but Nvidia gained only about 19% and Qualcomm about 7% over the same stretch, a fraction of that. The gains concentrated in the two biggest movers, and Intel outran even AMD. What set it apart was progress in its own factories: management says its 18A manufacturing process is yielding ahead of internal plans, and the company has pointed to multiyear deals with customers such as Google, a slot for its Xeon server chips inside Nvidia's flagship AI systems, and a headline tie-up with Elon Musk's ventures.
#year #inside
11 hours ago
Liverpool's summer has reached the point where the shape of the squad starts to come into view, and the message from The Athletic is clear enough. The headline issue is at the top end of the pitch. Bradley Barcola is the one they want, the one they rate highest, and the one who would signal ambition at the beginning of Andoni Iraola's reign.
That matters, because this is not a normal reset. Liverpool are trying to recover direction after a turbulent campaign, move on from the post-Arne Slot fallout, and hand a new head coach the tools to build something that looks fast, aggressive and dangerous. There is no point dressing it up. They need quality, they need depth, and they need clarity.
According to the report, "Bradley Barcola remains Liverpool's top target as they look to recruit an elite replacement for Mohamed Salah." That line lands heavily because it frames the whole market for Liverpool. Replacing Salah is not a standard bit of squad maintenance. You do not replace years of goals, ******* ists, fear factor and reliability with a hopeful punt. You need a player with real pedigree, and Barcola clearly fits the bill in Liverpool's thinking.
There is a seriousness to this pursuit. The report states, "Signing the 23-year-old France international would represent a major statement of intent at the start of new head coach Andoni Iraola's reign, but agreeing a deal with Paris Saint-Germain won't be straightforward." That feels like the truth of it. Liverpool can identify the right player, they can make him a priority, but getting him away from Paris Saint-Germain is another matter entirely.
The wider market context in the same report explains why. PSG have set an eye-watering valuation and Liverpool are far from alone in coveting elite attacking talent this summer. Even so, if Liverpool are serious about refreshing the frontline properly, there is no use blinking at the hard part. You either pay for top-class potential and production or you settle for less and hope. Liverpool have done enough hoping over the years to know how risky that can be.
#barcola #bradley #saint
That matters, because this is not a normal reset. Liverpool are trying to recover direction after a turbulent campaign, move on from the post-Arne Slot fallout, and hand a new head coach the tools to build something that looks fast, aggressive and dangerous. There is no point dressing it up. They need quality, they need depth, and they need clarity.
According to the report, "Bradley Barcola remains Liverpool's top target as they look to recruit an elite replacement for Mohamed Salah." That line lands heavily because it frames the whole market for Liverpool. Replacing Salah is not a standard bit of squad maintenance. You do not replace years of goals, ******* ists, fear factor and reliability with a hopeful punt. You need a player with real pedigree, and Barcola clearly fits the bill in Liverpool's thinking.
There is a seriousness to this pursuit. The report states, "Signing the 23-year-old France international would represent a major statement of intent at the start of new head coach Andoni Iraola's reign, but agreeing a deal with Paris Saint-Germain won't be straightforward." That feels like the truth of it. Liverpool can identify the right player, they can make him a priority, but getting him away from Paris Saint-Germain is another matter entirely.
The wider market context in the same report explains why. PSG have set an eye-watering valuation and Liverpool are far from alone in coveting elite attacking talent this summer. Even so, if Liverpool are serious about refreshing the frontline properly, there is no use blinking at the hard part. You either pay for top-class potential and production or you settle for less and hope. Liverpool have done enough hoping over the years to know how risky that can be.
#barcola #bradley #saint
14 hours ago
Texas A&M's No. 1-ranked 2027 recruiting class features a nation-high six five-star commitments, led by the program's top prospect, five-star offensive tackle Mark Matthews, who is widely considered the best pass protector with the potential to become a future first-round NFL Draft selection.
Combined with fellow OL Kennedy Brown, safety Kamarui Dorsey, Edge Zyron Forstall, cornerback Raylaun Henry, and wide receiver Eric McFarland, third-year coach Mike Elko and his staff are very close to locking down the No. 1-ranked 2027 cycle.
After landing four-star linebacker Mikahi Allen, five-star running back Landen Williams-Callis, who will announce his commitment on August 1, remains the lone priority prospect, but is expected to land with the Texas Longhorns after his OV to Austin this summer. Even if the Aggies don't secure Williams-Callis's commitment, Texas A&M's 2027 running back room will be in good shape regardless.
At wide receiver, three-star Demani Warren and four-star Jayden Upshawn complement Eric McFarland's elite speed and versatility as the likely future starting slot receiver once Mario Craver departs for the NFL, and will immediately compete for a starting role in 2027 with second-year receiver Madden Williams in the slot.
Among the top-ranked wide receiver prospects in the 2027 cycle, McFarland comes in at No. 7 in MaxPreps writer Zach Poff's top-10 rankings, which is quite impressive given the site's sole dedication to covering high school prospects.
#ranked #wide #mcfarland
Combined with fellow OL Kennedy Brown, safety Kamarui Dorsey, Edge Zyron Forstall, cornerback Raylaun Henry, and wide receiver Eric McFarland, third-year coach Mike Elko and his staff are very close to locking down the No. 1-ranked 2027 cycle.
After landing four-star linebacker Mikahi Allen, five-star running back Landen Williams-Callis, who will announce his commitment on August 1, remains the lone priority prospect, but is expected to land with the Texas Longhorns after his OV to Austin this summer. Even if the Aggies don't secure Williams-Callis's commitment, Texas A&M's 2027 running back room will be in good shape regardless.
At wide receiver, three-star Demani Warren and four-star Jayden Upshawn complement Eric McFarland's elite speed and versatility as the likely future starting slot receiver once Mario Craver departs for the NFL, and will immediately compete for a starting role in 2027 with second-year receiver Madden Williams in the slot.
Among the top-ranked wide receiver prospects in the 2027 cycle, McFarland comes in at No. 7 in MaxPreps writer Zach Poff's top-10 rankings, which is quite impressive given the site's sole dedication to covering high school prospects.
#ranked #wide #mcfarland
16 hours ago
Eintracht Frankfurt's previously reported signing of Brazilian centre back Otávio has been officially confirmed. Almost all reliable German footballing media sources confirm that the Bundesliga club has paid €4.5m to secure the 20-year-old's services. Otávio's new contract in Hessen runs through 2031. The new signing shall receive a chance to work directly ahead of his countryman Kaua Santos, who currently competes with Michael Zetterer for the No. 1 slot in goal.
"With Otávio, we're bringing in a young and highly talented center back with a lot of potential for development," SGE sporting director Timmo Hrdung noted in a club statement. "He's left-footed, tall, athletic, and fast, and combines that with a strong defensive mindset—something we specifically want to strengthen in our squad. We're convinced that he'll enjoy plenty of success here at Eintracht."
"Joining a club with such a rich tradition – one that regularly competes in major tournaments – is a dream come true and a very important step in my career," the player himself added. "I'd like to thank everyone who believes in me and has been part of my journey so far. Now a new challenge begins. I arrive with a strong determination and am ready for this challenge."
GGFN | Peter Weis
#we 're #brazilian
"With Otávio, we're bringing in a young and highly talented center back with a lot of potential for development," SGE sporting director Timmo Hrdung noted in a club statement. "He's left-footed, tall, athletic, and fast, and combines that with a strong defensive mindset—something we specifically want to strengthen in our squad. We're convinced that he'll enjoy plenty of success here at Eintracht."
"Joining a club with such a rich tradition – one that regularly competes in major tournaments – is a dream come true and a very important step in my career," the player himself added. "I'd like to thank everyone who believes in me and has been part of my journey so far. Now a new challenge begins. I arrive with a strong determination and am ready for this challenge."
GGFN | Peter Weis
#we 're #brazilian
19 hours ago
Former India wicketkeeper-batter Farokh Engineer believes teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has already done enough to earn an ODI call-up and wants the 15-year-old to open alongside Rohit Sharma ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
Engineer feels India should reshuffle their batting order by moving Shubman Gill to No. 4, allowing Sooryavanshi to partner Rohit at the top while Virat Kohli slots in at No. 3.
"The ideal situation is Shubman Gill and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Gill is a class player. Gill, I think, is the best batsman in the team now. So, Gill should come at four," Engineer told PTI.
The former India star said the combination of a right-handed Rohit and left-handed Sooryavanshi would provide the ideal balance in ODI cricket.
"Gill is not a guy who lifts the ball. So, a left-right combination would be ideal in ODIs. So, if Rohit is playing, and I think he should be playing, let him open with Sooryavanshi.
"A batsman like him (Sooryavanshi) is much better at opening because he finds bigger gaps in the field. Virat Kohli can come third. Gill can come fourth and then we've got a solid batting line-up," he said.
Engineer's remarks come after Sooryavanshi enjoyed a breakthrough T20I series against Zimbabwe. The youngster finished as the leading run-scorer with 151 runs, including two half-centuries, and was named Player of the Series as India completed a 3-0 clean sweep.
According to Engineer, those performances are enough to fast-track the teenager into India's 50-over plans.
"This is probably the right time to draft Sooryavanshi into India's ODI side. I don't know why people distinguish so much between ODI and T20 because for me, a half-volley is a half-volley. He's been getting runs and he's got the confidence to open the innings.
"He'll win more matches for you than lose you. When he gives a start like that, the other players can have time to consolidate the innings and put on a big score," Engineer noted.
While Sooryavanshi struggled during India's T20I tour of England earlier this month, the Zimbabwe series showcased his ability to adapt. He produced a measured 81 off 49 ***** in the final T20I on a slow Harare surface after blasting a rapid half-century in the series opener.
The teenager has also shown areas that still require improvement, including handling short-pitched bowling, adapting quickly to overseas conditions and refining his shot selection. However, Engineer urged India not to overburden the youngster with technical changes, insisting his natural game is what makes him special.
"Anything which is slightly short of length, in Sooryavanshi's curve, is going to go for a six. He learned from his mistakes, he has learned to curb himself. But don't try to over-coach him. He's not from the MCC book of manual, which is completely out of date.
"He's a genius. Nor was Viv Richards. Viv was the best batsman I've ever seen play. But persevere with Sooryavanshi. He'll be a tremendous ***** et for In
Engineer feels India should reshuffle their batting order by moving Shubman Gill to No. 4, allowing Sooryavanshi to partner Rohit at the top while Virat Kohli slots in at No. 3.
"The ideal situation is Shubman Gill and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Gill is a class player. Gill, I think, is the best batsman in the team now. So, Gill should come at four," Engineer told PTI.
The former India star said the combination of a right-handed Rohit and left-handed Sooryavanshi would provide the ideal balance in ODI cricket.
"Gill is not a guy who lifts the ball. So, a left-right combination would be ideal in ODIs. So, if Rohit is playing, and I think he should be playing, let him open with Sooryavanshi.
"A batsman like him (Sooryavanshi) is much better at opening because he finds bigger gaps in the field. Virat Kohli can come third. Gill can come fourth and then we've got a solid batting line-up," he said.
Engineer's remarks come after Sooryavanshi enjoyed a breakthrough T20I series against Zimbabwe. The youngster finished as the leading run-scorer with 151 runs, including two half-centuries, and was named Player of the Series as India completed a 3-0 clean sweep.
According to Engineer, those performances are enough to fast-track the teenager into India's 50-over plans.
"This is probably the right time to draft Sooryavanshi into India's ODI side. I don't know why people distinguish so much between ODI and T20 because for me, a half-volley is a half-volley. He's been getting runs and he's got the confidence to open the innings.
"He'll win more matches for you than lose you. When he gives a start like that, the other players can have time to consolidate the innings and put on a big score," Engineer noted.
While Sooryavanshi struggled during India's T20I tour of England earlier this month, the Zimbabwe series showcased his ability to adapt. He produced a measured 81 off 49 ***** in the final T20I on a slow Harare surface after blasting a rapid half-century in the series opener.
The teenager has also shown areas that still require improvement, including handling short-pitched bowling, adapting quickly to overseas conditions and refining his shot selection. However, Engineer urged India not to overburden the youngster with technical changes, insisting his natural game is what makes him special.
"Anything which is slightly short of length, in Sooryavanshi's curve, is going to go for a six. He learned from his mistakes, he has learned to curb himself. But don't try to over-coach him. He's not from the MCC book of manual, which is completely out of date.
"He's a genius. Nor was Viv Richards. Viv was the best batsman I've ever seen play. But persevere with Sooryavanshi. He'll be a tremendous ***** et for In
4 days ago
The Tennessee ***** ans needed to make some significant moves during the offseason to build around quarterback Cam Ward, and did just that.
Tennessee spent big when adding diminutive slot receiver Wan'Dale Robinson in free agency and followed that by selecting Carnell Tate fourth overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. But these weren't the only moves in rebuilding the roster and building a solid foundation.
Eva Geitheim of Sports Illustrated took a look at all of the ***** ans' moves and found one that could haunt them moving forward.
Tennessee ***** ans: Overpaying Wan'Dale Robinson
The ***** ans were in desperate need of receiver help, and thus turned to Wan'Dale Robinson in free agency, signing the 5'8" receiver to a four-year, $70 million deal. While Robinson's deal is far from what the best receivers are making, and there are only $38 million in guarantees in his contract, it's still a steep price for a receiver who narrowly surpassed 1,000 yards for the first time last season and has an injury history. Robinson, of course, can be a net positive for the ***** ans, particularly if he proves to be the reliable playmaker Ward needs, but this is also a move that might not age well.
#Titans #tennessee
Tennessee spent big when adding diminutive slot receiver Wan'Dale Robinson in free agency and followed that by selecting Carnell Tate fourth overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. But these weren't the only moves in rebuilding the roster and building a solid foundation.
Eva Geitheim of Sports Illustrated took a look at all of the ***** ans' moves and found one that could haunt them moving forward.
Tennessee ***** ans: Overpaying Wan'Dale Robinson
The ***** ans were in desperate need of receiver help, and thus turned to Wan'Dale Robinson in free agency, signing the 5'8" receiver to a four-year, $70 million deal. While Robinson's deal is far from what the best receivers are making, and there are only $38 million in guarantees in his contract, it's still a steep price for a receiver who narrowly surpassed 1,000 yards for the first time last season and has an injury history. Robinson, of course, can be a net positive for the ***** ans, particularly if he proves to be the reliable playmaker Ward needs, but this is also a move that might not age well.
#Titans #tennessee
4 days ago
On Tuesday, the Pittsburgh Steelers will report to Saint Vincent College for training camp. It will be the 59th year the Steelers have held camp at Latrobe, missing only during COVID. We already gave you the rundown of five storylines to watch and now we offer up four more storylines we have to keep an eye on.
Despite the addition of veteran Michael Pittman Jr., the Steelers still need to see a significant ***** p in production from the team's slot receiver. This will come down to rookie Germie Bernard and veteran Roman Wilson. We want to see the two of them duke it out in practice reps and in the preseason and see if the rookie can hold off the veteran with something to prove.
We had hoped the Steelers and Porter would have already agreed to terms on a contract extension but unless they announce something on Monday, we expect Porter Jr. to "hold in" at training camp until the two sides agree, even if it means the Steelers have to restructure some contracts to get it done.
We know that defensive coordinator Patrick Graham has said he plans to move Jalen Ramsey back to a slot cornerback, hybrid linebacker in his defense but we want to see if the lack of depth at safety shows itself and forces him back to safety again in 2026.
There's no doubt offensive tackle Broderick Jones will start training camp on the PUP list and we wonder if he will be available at all, but there is speculation that defensive tackle Sebastian Joseph-Day will also be on the PUP when training camp kicks off, which shuffles the defensive line rotation.
#veteran #porter #storylines #slot
Despite the addition of veteran Michael Pittman Jr., the Steelers still need to see a significant ***** p in production from the team's slot receiver. This will come down to rookie Germie Bernard and veteran Roman Wilson. We want to see the two of them duke it out in practice reps and in the preseason and see if the rookie can hold off the veteran with something to prove.
We had hoped the Steelers and Porter would have already agreed to terms on a contract extension but unless they announce something on Monday, we expect Porter Jr. to "hold in" at training camp until the two sides agree, even if it means the Steelers have to restructure some contracts to get it done.
We know that defensive coordinator Patrick Graham has said he plans to move Jalen Ramsey back to a slot cornerback, hybrid linebacker in his defense but we want to see if the lack of depth at safety shows itself and forces him back to safety again in 2026.
There's no doubt offensive tackle Broderick Jones will start training camp on the PUP list and we wonder if he will be available at all, but there is speculation that defensive tackle Sebastian Joseph-Day will also be on the PUP when training camp kicks off, which shuffles the defensive line rotation.
#veteran #porter #storylines #slot
4 days ago
The 2026 Formula 1 calendar has been in a state of flux since the Middle East conflict forced the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix earlier this year. Now, the scramble to fill the void is reaching a climax, and a fan-favorite circuit is on the verge of an unexpected return.
According to a recent update from F1 Speed Indonesia, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has officially addressed the rumors surrounding the Sepang International Circuit. Responding to press inquiries regarding F1's request to have Malaysia replace the canceled Bahrain GP, Ibrahim confirmed that a definitive answer is imminent.
"Regarding F1, we will make an announcement on Sunday," the Prime Minister stated, setting a July 26 deadline for the decision.
This aligns with recent confirmations from Malaysia's Youth and Sports Ministry, which has been actively ***** sing the feasibility, costs, and logistics of hosting a Grand Prix at short notice.
The aggressive push for Malaysia comes after F1's initial contingency plans fell apart. Organizers had originally hoped to reschedule the Bahrain GP for early October—slotting it right between the Azerbaijan and Singapore races. However, with geopolitical tensions flaring up once again, the FIA and F1 management have been forced to abandon the Middle East makeup dates entirely.
#Bahrain #prix #malaysia #circuit
According to a recent update from F1 Speed Indonesia, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has officially addressed the rumors surrounding the Sepang International Circuit. Responding to press inquiries regarding F1's request to have Malaysia replace the canceled Bahrain GP, Ibrahim confirmed that a definitive answer is imminent.
"Regarding F1, we will make an announcement on Sunday," the Prime Minister stated, setting a July 26 deadline for the decision.
This aligns with recent confirmations from Malaysia's Youth and Sports Ministry, which has been actively ***** sing the feasibility, costs, and logistics of hosting a Grand Prix at short notice.
The aggressive push for Malaysia comes after F1's initial contingency plans fell apart. Organizers had originally hoped to reschedule the Bahrain GP for early October—slotting it right between the Azerbaijan and Singapore races. However, with geopolitical tensions flaring up once again, the FIA and F1 management have been forced to abandon the Middle East makeup dates entirely.
#Bahrain #prix #malaysia #circuit
4 days ago
One prominent Liverpool reporter has dismissed the prospect of Stefan Bajcetic being considered as a makeshift right-back for the Reds in the upcoming campaign.
The Spanish midfielder made his long-awaited comeback to team training this week, having not played for the club since May 2024 and not made it onto the pitch at all last season due to persistent injury troubles.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL EMPIRE OF THE KOP APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Arne Slot frequently played midfielders at right-back in 2025/26 whenever Conor Bradley and/or Jeremie Frimpong were ruled out injured, with Dominik Szoboszlai, Curtis Jones and Wataru Endo all deployed in that unfamiliar role.
However, in response to a reader's question for the Liverpool Echo as to whether Andoni Iraola might do the same with Bajcetic, Ian Doyle opined that such a scenario would be highly unlikely and that the 21-year-old could plausibly depart on loan again.
#Liverpool #back #spanish
The Spanish midfielder made his long-awaited comeback to team training this week, having not played for the club since May 2024 and not made it onto the pitch at all last season due to persistent injury troubles.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL EMPIRE OF THE KOP APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Arne Slot frequently played midfielders at right-back in 2025/26 whenever Conor Bradley and/or Jeremie Frimpong were ruled out injured, with Dominik Szoboszlai, Curtis Jones and Wataru Endo all deployed in that unfamiliar role.
However, in response to a reader's question for the Liverpool Echo as to whether Andoni Iraola might do the same with Bajcetic, Ian Doyle opined that such a scenario would be highly unlikely and that the 21-year-old could plausibly depart on loan again.
#Liverpool #back #spanish
4 days ago
It goes without saying that Liverpool's main goal this summer should be to try and win the Premier League.
Most people expected them to easily retain the ***** le last term but, since Arne Slot decided to completely change things, that was far from the case.
Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo's strengths weren't played to which led to the duo barely contributing to the Reds' attack and having some of their worst-ever seasons for the Anfield outfit.
And, now that Salah has left and Andoni Iraola is in charge, it feels like now is the best time for the new era of Liverpool to arise.
A club of the Reds' size deserves to be competing for ***** les every season and, if they're not, there's clearly something massively wrong.
#premier
Most people expected them to easily retain the ***** le last term but, since Arne Slot decided to completely change things, that was far from the case.
Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo's strengths weren't played to which led to the duo barely contributing to the Reds' attack and having some of their worst-ever seasons for the Anfield outfit.
And, now that Salah has left and Andoni Iraola is in charge, it feels like now is the best time for the new era of Liverpool to arise.
A club of the Reds' size deserves to be competing for ***** les every season and, if they're not, there's clearly something massively wrong.
#premier
4 days ago
Liverpool's first pre-season outing of the summer was already going to carry curiosity, because a new head coach always brings questions, fresh ideas and a sense of reset. Yet Saturday's meeting with Sunderland now carries something far more important. As reported by BBC Sport, both clubs will honour Kevin Keegan with black armbands and a minute's applause before kick-off.
That feels fitting. Keegan belonged to an era when footballers seemed larger than life, full of energy, swagger and personality, and he left a mark on every club lucky enough to call him their own. He died this week at the age of 75, months after it was announced that he had been diagnosed with stage four cancer. For many supporters, particularly those of a certain vintage, the news landed with real force.
At Liverpool, Keegan was central to one of the club's great periods of growth. Nearly 750 club appearances came across his wider career, but the six years on Merseyside remain a huge part of why he is remembered with such affection. Three league ****** les, the European Cup, two UEFA Cups and the FA Cup tell their own story. So do the Ballon d'Or wins in 1978 and 1979, achieved while he was with Hamburg, proof that his standing stretched well beyond English football.
He was a footballer who played with urgency and emotion, and those are qualities supporters always respond to. Trophies matter, of course, but connection matters too. Keegan had both.
This match also opens the Andoni Iraola chapter. After the collapse of last season and the end of Arne Slot's reign in May, Liverpool head into 2026-27 needing clarity and momentum. Iraola's first game arrives with notable absentees after Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate departed at the end of last term.
#keegan #head #always #club
That feels fitting. Keegan belonged to an era when footballers seemed larger than life, full of energy, swagger and personality, and he left a mark on every club lucky enough to call him their own. He died this week at the age of 75, months after it was announced that he had been diagnosed with stage four cancer. For many supporters, particularly those of a certain vintage, the news landed with real force.
At Liverpool, Keegan was central to one of the club's great periods of growth. Nearly 750 club appearances came across his wider career, but the six years on Merseyside remain a huge part of why he is remembered with such affection. Three league ****** les, the European Cup, two UEFA Cups and the FA Cup tell their own story. So do the Ballon d'Or wins in 1978 and 1979, achieved while he was with Hamburg, proof that his standing stretched well beyond English football.
He was a footballer who played with urgency and emotion, and those are qualities supporters always respond to. Trophies matter, of course, but connection matters too. Keegan had both.
This match also opens the Andoni Iraola chapter. After the collapse of last season and the end of Arne Slot's reign in May, Liverpool head into 2026-27 needing clarity and momentum. Iraola's first game arrives with notable absentees after Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate departed at the end of last term.
#keegan #head #always #club
4 days ago
The Detroit Tigers have signed another draft pick.
Shortstop Tyson LeBlanc signed with the Tigers for a $1.6 million bonus – approximately $85,000 over the slot value – as first reported by MLB.com's Jim Callis. The Tigers drafted LeBlanc in the second round of the 2026 MLB Draft at No. 61 overall on July 11.
LeBlanc was first-team All-Big 12 in his only season with the Kansas Jayhawks in 2026, slashing .341/.425/.706 with 25 home runs and 69 RBIs. He was named the 2026 Big 12 Tournament's Most Outstanding Player after marking 7 RBIs in three tournament games.
ON THE FIELD: Tigers takeaways: A.J. Hinch doing whatever it takes for needed wins
LeBlanc was one of Detroit's three remaining undecided draft picks as of Friday, with right-handed pitcher Jack Byers (17th round) and right-handed pitcher Will Zielinski (20th round) still having yet to sign. First-round pick Cameron Flukey, a right-handed pitcher out of Coastal Carolina, signed with the Tigers on July 15.
#tigers #leblanc #draft #right
Shortstop Tyson LeBlanc signed with the Tigers for a $1.6 million bonus – approximately $85,000 over the slot value – as first reported by MLB.com's Jim Callis. The Tigers drafted LeBlanc in the second round of the 2026 MLB Draft at No. 61 overall on July 11.
LeBlanc was first-team All-Big 12 in his only season with the Kansas Jayhawks in 2026, slashing .341/.425/.706 with 25 home runs and 69 RBIs. He was named the 2026 Big 12 Tournament's Most Outstanding Player after marking 7 RBIs in three tournament games.
ON THE FIELD: Tigers takeaways: A.J. Hinch doing whatever it takes for needed wins
LeBlanc was one of Detroit's three remaining undecided draft picks as of Friday, with right-handed pitcher Jack Byers (17th round) and right-handed pitcher Will Zielinski (20th round) still having yet to sign. First-round pick Cameron Flukey, a right-handed pitcher out of Coastal Carolina, signed with the Tigers on July 15.
#tigers #leblanc #draft #right
4 days ago
The Detroit Tigers have signed another draft pick.
Shortstop Tyson LeBlanc signed with the Tigers for a $1.6 million bonus – approximately $85,000 over the slot value – as first reported by MLB.com's Jim Callis. The Tigers drafted LeBlanc in the second round of the 2026 MLB Draft at No. 61 overall on July 11.
LeBlanc was first-team All-Big 12 in his only season with the Kansas Jayhawks in 2026, slashing .341/.425/.706 with 25 home runs and 69 RBIs. He was named the 2026 Big 12 Tournament's Most Outstanding Player after marking 7 RBIs in three tournament games.
ON THE FIELD: Tigers takeaways: A.J. Hinch doing whatever it takes for needed wins
LeBlanc was one of Detroit's three remaining undecided draft picks as of Friday, with right-handed pitcher Jack Byers (17th round) and right-handed pitcher Will Zielinski (20th round) still having yet to sign. First-round pick Cameron Flukey, a right-handed pitcher out of Coastal Carolina, signed with the Tigers on July 15.
#leblanc #first #right #july
Shortstop Tyson LeBlanc signed with the Tigers for a $1.6 million bonus – approximately $85,000 over the slot value – as first reported by MLB.com's Jim Callis. The Tigers drafted LeBlanc in the second round of the 2026 MLB Draft at No. 61 overall on July 11.
LeBlanc was first-team All-Big 12 in his only season with the Kansas Jayhawks in 2026, slashing .341/.425/.706 with 25 home runs and 69 RBIs. He was named the 2026 Big 12 Tournament's Most Outstanding Player after marking 7 RBIs in three tournament games.
ON THE FIELD: Tigers takeaways: A.J. Hinch doing whatever it takes for needed wins
LeBlanc was one of Detroit's three remaining undecided draft picks as of Friday, with right-handed pitcher Jack Byers (17th round) and right-handed pitcher Will Zielinski (20th round) still having yet to sign. First-round pick Cameron Flukey, a right-handed pitcher out of Coastal Carolina, signed with the Tigers on July 15.
#leblanc #first #right #july
4 days ago
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — The Cleveland Guardians activated outfielder Angel Martinez from the 10-day injured list and left-handed reliever Tim Herrin from the 15-day IL on Friday before the start of a series against the AL East-leading Tampa Bay Rays.
To make room on the roster, left-hander Will Dion and utility man Daniel Schneemann were optioned to Triple-A Columbus.
Cleveland (54-50) enters the weekend series against Tampa Bay 1 1/2 games behind the Chicago White Sox for the top spot in the AL Central.
Martinez, slotted in the leadoff spot to open the series against the Rays, missed 32 games with a fracture in his left foot after fouling a ball off the foot against Detroit on June 13. Martinez was placed on the injured list on June 16 with a non-displaced fracture and missed 32 games. The 24-year-old is hitting .239 with 33 RBIs and is tied for the team lead with 11 home runs.
Martinez appeared in four games on a rehab ******* ignment, playing twice with Double-A Akron and two games with Columbus, combining to go 5 for 12 with a home run and two doubles before joining the Guardians for a pregame workout on Thursday.
#martinez #series #rays #columbus
To make room on the roster, left-hander Will Dion and utility man Daniel Schneemann were optioned to Triple-A Columbus.
Cleveland (54-50) enters the weekend series against Tampa Bay 1 1/2 games behind the Chicago White Sox for the top spot in the AL Central.
Martinez, slotted in the leadoff spot to open the series against the Rays, missed 32 games with a fracture in his left foot after fouling a ball off the foot against Detroit on June 13. Martinez was placed on the injured list on June 16 with a non-displaced fracture and missed 32 games. The 24-year-old is hitting .239 with 33 RBIs and is tied for the team lead with 11 home runs.
Martinez appeared in four games on a rehab ******* ignment, playing twice with Double-A Akron and two games with Columbus, combining to go 5 for 12 with a home run and two doubles before joining the Guardians for a pregame workout on Thursday.
#martinez #series #rays #columbus
4 days ago
If you've been to one of those sports bars with 25 screens, you've seen what happens when a fight breaks out in the middle of a hockey game. People pause a second to watch it play out, the way they do when strolling past somebody on a slot machine in Vegas who's hit an unexpected bonus.
There's no guarantee that a fight will break out in a hockey game, of course, but it always feels a little lucky when one does.
This is what the Bare Knuckle Ice Wars, which officially debuted in 2022, built its premise on. To do away with the hockey and focus just on the fights. Some people go in for the toe drags and odd man rushes and game-altering shorthanded chances, but the only goal here is to do away with the puck. To give people just the fights they crave, the game within the game, without the distraction of a game.
To some this might seem like just extracting the cream filling from a Hostess Twinkie. But you know who understands a good on-ice fight, which has been a bonus attraction to the professional hockey ranks for more than 100 years?
ESPN, that's who.
#you 've #away #fights
There's no guarantee that a fight will break out in a hockey game, of course, but it always feels a little lucky when one does.
This is what the Bare Knuckle Ice Wars, which officially debuted in 2022, built its premise on. To do away with the hockey and focus just on the fights. Some people go in for the toe drags and odd man rushes and game-altering shorthanded chances, but the only goal here is to do away with the puck. To give people just the fights they crave, the game within the game, without the distraction of a game.
To some this might seem like just extracting the cream filling from a Hostess Twinkie. But you know who understands a good on-ice fight, which has been a bonus attraction to the professional hockey ranks for more than 100 years?
ESPN, that's who.
#you 've #away #fights
4 days ago
The Atlanta Falcons reached their first training camp milestone on Friday, with rookies officially reporting to Flowery Branch. The team's 19-player rookie class, which includes six draft picks and 13 undrafted free agents, will get a head start before the veterans arrive next week.
Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski has his work cut out for him, but July is the time for optimism in the NFL. For now, each team, including Atlanta, is on equal footing.
In today's Falcons Wire Recap, ESPN breaks down the underrated right tackle competition, CBS Sports ranks the Robinsons as the top running back duo in the league, The Athletic makes a free-agent suggestion, and the NFL sets a date for Super Bowl LXII in Atlanta.
The Falcons are still a good fit for the top available wide receiver on the market. Daniel Popper at The Athletic listed Atlanta as the best landing spot for free-agent Stefon Diggs.
"The Falcons drafted Zachariah Branch in the third round. Branch is explosive and projects as a YAC threat," wrote Popper. "Diggs can play inside and outside, which would leave slot snaps available for Branch. London, Diggs and Branch would form a well-rounded trio for whichever quarterback wins the starting job between Michael Penix and Tua Tagovailoa."
#diggs #free
Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski has his work cut out for him, but July is the time for optimism in the NFL. For now, each team, including Atlanta, is on equal footing.
In today's Falcons Wire Recap, ESPN breaks down the underrated right tackle competition, CBS Sports ranks the Robinsons as the top running back duo in the league, The Athletic makes a free-agent suggestion, and the NFL sets a date for Super Bowl LXII in Atlanta.
The Falcons are still a good fit for the top available wide receiver on the market. Daniel Popper at The Athletic listed Atlanta as the best landing spot for free-agent Stefon Diggs.
"The Falcons drafted Zachariah Branch in the third round. Branch is explosive and projects as a YAC threat," wrote Popper. "Diggs can play inside and outside, which would leave slot snaps available for Branch. London, Diggs and Branch would form a well-rounded trio for whichever quarterback wins the starting job between Michael Penix and Tua Tagovailoa."
#diggs #free
4 days ago
Peter Schrager's 2 p.m. show seems to be sports media's worst-kept secret at this point.
OutKick's Bobby Burack reported that ESPN is expected to announce a new 2 p.m. show hosted by Schrager in the coming week(s). The show itself has been the expected outcome of ESPN's afternoon lineup shuffle since at least May, when The Athletic's Andrew Marchand reported that a program built around Schrager was the leading candidate to replace the 2 p.m. edition of SportsCenter.
Schrager's name has been tied to ESPN's afternoon shakeup since almost the moment Around the Horn was canceled. When CNBC's Alex Sherman first reported that ESPN was considering replacing the 2 p.m. SportsCenter, he described the concept as an "all-sports" show rather than another NFL-only hour, and Marchand reported last spring that Schrager doing a show at 2 or 5 p.m. was "pretty likely," floating the idea that he could be "a central figure in some sort of ensemble" rather than a solo act.
Schrager joined ESPN from NFL Network and Fox Sports last April after nearly a decade as one of the faces of Good Morning Football, and quickly became a fixture across Get Up, First Take, NFL Live, and The Pat McAfee Show. He stole the show at McAfee's NFL Draft Spectacular that spring, launched The Schrager Hour podcast with Omaha Productions in the fall, and stepped in as a guest host for Mike Greenberg on Get Up, a run that gave ESPN executives confidence he could anchor an hour of his own, per Marchand's reporting. He's also been candid about missing the three-hour daily runway he had at Good Morning Football, where he could spend eight minutes on whatever topic interested him that day. A solo show would hand him something close to that format again.
The 5 p.m. hour, by contrast, looks like it's staying put. That slot has also been filled by SportsCenter since Around the Horn's cancellation, and while Scott Van Pelt was floated for months as a candidate to take it over, he confirmed on his own podcast in April that he's staying in his late-night role rather than moving. ESPN executive Burke Magnus had pushed hard for a reunion between Van Pelt and Ryen Russillo to anchor the new hour, telling Andrew Marchand it was "a bit of a selfish concept by me" given how big a fan he'd been of their old radio pairing, but Russillo's own schedule — and later move to Barstool — made the setup unlikely. Without a concept he could actually build around, Van Pelt opted to stay with the format that's already earned his SportsCenter 10 Emmy nominations and regularly lands him timely interviews with players and coaches in the immediate aftermath of major games, interviews that simply wouldn't be available to a show airing at 5 p.m. instead of after primetime.
#show #sportscenter #marchand #sports
OutKick's Bobby Burack reported that ESPN is expected to announce a new 2 p.m. show hosted by Schrager in the coming week(s). The show itself has been the expected outcome of ESPN's afternoon lineup shuffle since at least May, when The Athletic's Andrew Marchand reported that a program built around Schrager was the leading candidate to replace the 2 p.m. edition of SportsCenter.
Schrager's name has been tied to ESPN's afternoon shakeup since almost the moment Around the Horn was canceled. When CNBC's Alex Sherman first reported that ESPN was considering replacing the 2 p.m. SportsCenter, he described the concept as an "all-sports" show rather than another NFL-only hour, and Marchand reported last spring that Schrager doing a show at 2 or 5 p.m. was "pretty likely," floating the idea that he could be "a central figure in some sort of ensemble" rather than a solo act.
Schrager joined ESPN from NFL Network and Fox Sports last April after nearly a decade as one of the faces of Good Morning Football, and quickly became a fixture across Get Up, First Take, NFL Live, and The Pat McAfee Show. He stole the show at McAfee's NFL Draft Spectacular that spring, launched The Schrager Hour podcast with Omaha Productions in the fall, and stepped in as a guest host for Mike Greenberg on Get Up, a run that gave ESPN executives confidence he could anchor an hour of his own, per Marchand's reporting. He's also been candid about missing the three-hour daily runway he had at Good Morning Football, where he could spend eight minutes on whatever topic interested him that day. A solo show would hand him something close to that format again.
The 5 p.m. hour, by contrast, looks like it's staying put. That slot has also been filled by SportsCenter since Around the Horn's cancellation, and while Scott Van Pelt was floated for months as a candidate to take it over, he confirmed on his own podcast in April that he's staying in his late-night role rather than moving. ESPN executive Burke Magnus had pushed hard for a reunion between Van Pelt and Ryen Russillo to anchor the new hour, telling Andrew Marchand it was "a bit of a selfish concept by me" given how big a fan he'd been of their old radio pairing, but Russillo's own schedule — and later move to Barstool — made the setup unlikely. Without a concept he could actually build around, Van Pelt opted to stay with the format that's already earned his SportsCenter 10 Emmy nominations and regularly lands him timely interviews with players and coaches in the immediate aftermath of major games, interviews that simply wouldn't be available to a show airing at 5 p.m. instead of after primetime.
#show #sportscenter #marchand #sports
4 days ago
Every Florida baseball player and signee taken in the 2026 MLB Draft has officially signed.
The Gators had six players chosen in this year's draft, along with one of their high school signees. UF has now produced 21 first-round picks in program history and has had at least four picks in 17 of the last 18 years.
The program has also produced at least five draft picks in each of the past four years.
Here's a breakdown of every UF player that has signed a deal this offseason.
The Gators' top pick in the draft was the final player to agree to a deal on Friday, July 24. Peterson was taken No. 19 overall by the Cleveland Guardians. The right-hander received the full slot value of his pick of $4,530,500.
#picks #gators
The Gators had six players chosen in this year's draft, along with one of their high school signees. UF has now produced 21 first-round picks in program history and has had at least four picks in 17 of the last 18 years.
The program has also produced at least five draft picks in each of the past four years.
Here's a breakdown of every UF player that has signed a deal this offseason.
The Gators' top pick in the draft was the final player to agree to a deal on Friday, July 24. Peterson was taken No. 19 overall by the Cleveland Guardians. The right-hander received the full slot value of his pick of $4,530,500.
#picks #gators
4 days ago
As NBA free agency dies down and the Summer League comes to an end, there’s less going on in the basketball world. Which means there’s going to be a lot more opinions and predictions. There have been countless blockbuster trades and signings this offseason, leaving people with plenty to talk about.
Undoubtedly, the biggest move of the offseason was Boston sending former Finals MVP Jaylen Brown to Philadelphia in exchange for Paul George and a couple of second-round picks. The majority of **** ysts and talking heads have already written the Celtics off, but is it a bit premature?
MORE: 3 NBA teams who are most improved entering 2026-2027 season
People are acting like Boston moving on from Jaylen Brown is the end-all, be-all. Boston did downgrade at the shooting guard position, slotting an aging Paul George into his place, but they also improved in other areas.
Their most significant upgrade came at center. It’s no secret that Boston has been searching for a reliable, physical center. They have brought in several players, but none could meet their expectations. They finally signed Knicks center Mitchell Robinson this offseason in hopes that he can solve that issue.
#paul
Undoubtedly, the biggest move of the offseason was Boston sending former Finals MVP Jaylen Brown to Philadelphia in exchange for Paul George and a couple of second-round picks. The majority of **** ysts and talking heads have already written the Celtics off, but is it a bit premature?
MORE: 3 NBA teams who are most improved entering 2026-2027 season
People are acting like Boston moving on from Jaylen Brown is the end-all, be-all. Boston did downgrade at the shooting guard position, slotting an aging Paul George into his place, but they also improved in other areas.
Their most significant upgrade came at center. It’s no secret that Boston has been searching for a reliable, physical center. They have brought in several players, but none could meet their expectations. They finally signed Knicks center Mitchell Robinson this offseason in hopes that he can solve that issue.
#paul
4 days ago
The amount of young talent in the Pittsburgh Penguins organization is filling up quickly. CapWages has 21 players on Pittsburgh’s reserve list for unsigned drafted players and the team has 22 others under contract that will be playing in the pro ranks next season. Once upon a time, finding 25 players to even rank was a tall task, now there are some decent enough names that won’t draw a mention at all for this year’s list considering that there are over 40 options between signed players and the reserve list. Today hopes to appease that with an honorable mention of five players on the cusp of making the list, all of whom show the potential to be ranked next year with favorable upcoming seasons.
Earlier in the week we kicked off Top 25 Under 25 season by looking at the players that won’t be a part of this year’s list due to aging out, being traded or otherwise leaving the organization. As a loose rule, we’re saying for now that 2019 draftees like Elmer Soderblom (who turned 25 earlier this summer) and Nick Robertson (who has his 25th birthday in September) are ineligible this year. 2020 draftees that are under the age of 25 currently, like Hendrix Lapierre and Joel Blomqvist meet the cut-off as fair game this year.
The top 25 under 25 series was a staple within the SBN Hockey blogs a decade ago, around here it’s morphed into what I like to think about as a snapshot in time for value and importance within the organization. It’s not meant to be purely predictive of which player may be the best pro in three, five or seven years but show how the young players currently stack up against one another.
In many ways it’s an impossible task, and a very subjective one. How does one weigh a 24-year old that figures to have a short leash at making an NHL impact (like a Phil Tomasino or Sam Poulin last year) against a fresh-faced 18 year old that was just drafted and doesn’t figure to turn pro for several years? Not to mention everything in between. It’s certainly a balancing act where guaranteed contributions to the NHL level count for something, even with the real possibility of a short shelf life and some projections also have to be taken into account for expected/hoped for futures.
Since this is a value-based snapshot in time, another handy tool may be to consider a hypothetical trade. If you **** ume a trade is going to happen and the other side wants either prospect X or young player Y to finalize the deal, which **** et would the organization be better off holding onto? The answer to that judgement can go a long way towards determining where the young players will slot in against each other for this list, though it isn’t a strict rule of thumb since some player profiles (puck moving defenseman) might have more trade value than organizational value than other spots (goalie, small winger). That consideration is at least some factor in aligning the rankings.
#players #like #mention
Earlier in the week we kicked off Top 25 Under 25 season by looking at the players that won’t be a part of this year’s list due to aging out, being traded or otherwise leaving the organization. As a loose rule, we’re saying for now that 2019 draftees like Elmer Soderblom (who turned 25 earlier this summer) and Nick Robertson (who has his 25th birthday in September) are ineligible this year. 2020 draftees that are under the age of 25 currently, like Hendrix Lapierre and Joel Blomqvist meet the cut-off as fair game this year.
The top 25 under 25 series was a staple within the SBN Hockey blogs a decade ago, around here it’s morphed into what I like to think about as a snapshot in time for value and importance within the organization. It’s not meant to be purely predictive of which player may be the best pro in three, five or seven years but show how the young players currently stack up against one another.
In many ways it’s an impossible task, and a very subjective one. How does one weigh a 24-year old that figures to have a short leash at making an NHL impact (like a Phil Tomasino or Sam Poulin last year) against a fresh-faced 18 year old that was just drafted and doesn’t figure to turn pro for several years? Not to mention everything in between. It’s certainly a balancing act where guaranteed contributions to the NHL level count for something, even with the real possibility of a short shelf life and some projections also have to be taken into account for expected/hoped for futures.
Since this is a value-based snapshot in time, another handy tool may be to consider a hypothetical trade. If you **** ume a trade is going to happen and the other side wants either prospect X or young player Y to finalize the deal, which **** et would the organization be better off holding onto? The answer to that judgement can go a long way towards determining where the young players will slot in against each other for this list, though it isn’t a strict rule of thumb since some player profiles (puck moving defenseman) might have more trade value than organizational value than other spots (goalie, small winger). That consideration is at least some factor in aligning the rankings.
#players #like #mention
5 days ago
Rookies for the Kansas City Chiefs will be reporting to the team’s training camp at Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph later today. When we are able to see the full squad next week, rookie cornerback Mansoor Delane will be among the players under the most scrutiny. Because of the price the Chiefs gave up moving up three slots to sixth overall for Delane, there will be little patience for talk of a rookie curve.
When **** sing his camp, we will need to remember that cornerback mistakes are often magnified, and the position is rarely noticed when a player is performing well. That said, Delane needs to establish himself as one of the best in the league at his position quickly.
Five Chiefs players with something to prove in training camp | The Athletic
Mansoor Delane
There are two truths when it comes to rookie cornerback Mansoor Delane:
#mansoor #camp #training #rookies
When **** sing his camp, we will need to remember that cornerback mistakes are often magnified, and the position is rarely noticed when a player is performing well. That said, Delane needs to establish himself as one of the best in the league at his position quickly.
Five Chiefs players with something to prove in training camp | The Athletic
Mansoor Delane
There are two truths when it comes to rookie cornerback Mansoor Delane:
#mansoor #camp #training #rookies
5 days ago
Former Washington Commanders wide receiver Deebo Samuel became a free agent earlier this year, and he has yet to sign with any team. There have been conversations about his return to the Commanders, as well as a potential return to the San Francisco 49ers, but nothing has come of it yet.
On a recent episode of the "Speakeasy" podcast, hosted by Emmanuel Acho and LeSean McCoy, the two discussed Samuel's potential return to the 49ers. McCoy said that the Niners were missing a "spark" in 2025, something Samuel used to provide for the team. Acho vehemently disagreed with McCoy.
“I’m not gonna pay a glorified mascot top-tier money…I’m paying you to get 1,400 yards. Deebo had 700 last year and 670 the year before,” exclaimed Acho. “At the end of the day, Deebo has had 1-1,000-yard receiving season. ONE! JUST ONE!”
While he's technically not wrong, Samuel has had only one 1,000-yard season; he's missing what Samuel actually brings to the table, and ignoring what he has been asked to do on the field. Not every receiver is going to get 1,000 yards every year, especially if he's not WR1.
Last year, Samuel was supposed to be the slot guy, the utility receiver who can also run with the ball and provide a distraction. The Commanders were not asking him for 1,000 yards. And with the injuries to Jayden Daniels, we'll never know what kind of a season he could have had.
#year #Commanders
On a recent episode of the "Speakeasy" podcast, hosted by Emmanuel Acho and LeSean McCoy, the two discussed Samuel's potential return to the 49ers. McCoy said that the Niners were missing a "spark" in 2025, something Samuel used to provide for the team. Acho vehemently disagreed with McCoy.
“I’m not gonna pay a glorified mascot top-tier money…I’m paying you to get 1,400 yards. Deebo had 700 last year and 670 the year before,” exclaimed Acho. “At the end of the day, Deebo has had 1-1,000-yard receiving season. ONE! JUST ONE!”
While he's technically not wrong, Samuel has had only one 1,000-yard season; he's missing what Samuel actually brings to the table, and ignoring what he has been asked to do on the field. Not every receiver is going to get 1,000 yards every year, especially if he's not WR1.
Last year, Samuel was supposed to be the slot guy, the utility receiver who can also run with the ball and provide a distraction. The Commanders were not asking him for 1,000 yards. And with the injuries to Jayden Daniels, we'll never know what kind of a season he could have had.
#year #Commanders
5 days ago
The Tennessee ***** ans kicked off the opening salvo of training camp when rookies reported on Thursday and are just days away from taking the field.
The ***** ans changed almost everything during the offseason, with an upgraded staff led by head coach Robert Saleh, a retooled roster, and even a new organizational brand, setting higher expectations heading into the 2026 season. With so many new faces, it will be interesting to watch the team come together and build a solid foundation.
This is also true of the staff, the new coordinators, and the position coaches. Where Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic believes new nickelback coach Dalton Hilliard could be a coach to watch on Saleh’s staff.
Tennessee ***** ans: Dalton Hilliard, defensive backs/nickels
Hilliard will be in his first NFL coaching season after a decade in college football. While Tennessee’s new coaching staff is a bit of a wild card, its structure shows real potential — and part of my reasoning starts with Hilliard. To split the three DBs coaches (safeties, cornerbacks, nickels) into more specific designations is interesting in itself and extremely in tune with the modern game. But to have a coach in Hilliard who will specialize in nickel players (whether corner, safety, or hybrid linebacker) speaks even further to how head coach Robert Saleh wants to react to the latest offensive evolutions that force defenses to cover “move” players of all sizes, from tight ends (including out of heavier personnel groupings) to fullbacks and large slot receivers. This might be a really smart way to structure a defensive staff in this era, and Hilliard will play a key role in that.
#hilliard #staff #coach #tennessee
The ***** ans changed almost everything during the offseason, with an upgraded staff led by head coach Robert Saleh, a retooled roster, and even a new organizational brand, setting higher expectations heading into the 2026 season. With so many new faces, it will be interesting to watch the team come together and build a solid foundation.
This is also true of the staff, the new coordinators, and the position coaches. Where Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic believes new nickelback coach Dalton Hilliard could be a coach to watch on Saleh’s staff.
Tennessee ***** ans: Dalton Hilliard, defensive backs/nickels
Hilliard will be in his first NFL coaching season after a decade in college football. While Tennessee’s new coaching staff is a bit of a wild card, its structure shows real potential — and part of my reasoning starts with Hilliard. To split the three DBs coaches (safeties, cornerbacks, nickels) into more specific designations is interesting in itself and extremely in tune with the modern game. But to have a coach in Hilliard who will specialize in nickel players (whether corner, safety, or hybrid linebacker) speaks even further to how head coach Robert Saleh wants to react to the latest offensive evolutions that force defenses to cover “move” players of all sizes, from tight ends (including out of heavier personnel groupings) to fullbacks and large slot receivers. This might be a really smart way to structure a defensive staff in this era, and Hilliard will play a key role in that.
#hilliard #staff #coach #tennessee
5 days ago
Andoni Iraola says he was in talks with other clubs before taking over as Liverpool manager.
The 44-year-old replaced Arne Slot as head coach this summer, after stepping down as Bournemouth manager following a three-year stay.
"It happened quite fast," he said. "Yes, it was true that I was talking with some clubs. It was the first or second week after the season ended when Liverpool contacted me, and it didn't take a lot [to say yes]."
Iraola's arrival was seen by Liverpool as a means of trying to deliver an attacking brand of football.
In his introductory news conference last week, he spoke about wanting to give fans "a team to be proud of".
#manager #year #week #slot
The 44-year-old replaced Arne Slot as head coach this summer, after stepping down as Bournemouth manager following a three-year stay.
"It happened quite fast," he said. "Yes, it was true that I was talking with some clubs. It was the first or second week after the season ended when Liverpool contacted me, and it didn't take a lot [to say yes]."
Iraola's arrival was seen by Liverpool as a means of trying to deliver an attacking brand of football.
In his introductory news conference last week, he spoke about wanting to give fans "a team to be proud of".
#manager #year #week #slot
5 days ago
When the Buffalo Bills open up training camp at the end of July, there are going to be a handful of battles at position groups, but the most important might be at wide receiver.
The Bills did a solid job updating their receiving core this offseason with the big move of trading for Chicago Bears wide receiver DJ Moore, but there are still a handful of other roster spots that need upgrades at the position.
One of the key areas to watch during training camp is who will be named the two outside starting receivers. Fansided's NFL insider, Jason La Canfora, identified the Bills' receiving competition as one of the eight biggest training camp battles.
"In most of these instances we are drilling down at a particular spot on the depth chart, and we certainly figure DJ Moore is the top guy here given what it took to get him, but this is kind of jumped. Keon Coleman has been a bit of a scapegoat for the Bills coming up short as an organization and Joshua Palmer is a nice depth signing with upside and Khalil Shakir has probably been overexposed and asked to do too much; maybe he settles into a slot-exclusive role now," La Canfora wrote on Thursday. "This group needs to step up its overall production, and they need Moore to be a legit go-to guy. I believe he will."
Moore is going to win one of the jobs if everything goes according to plan, which means not suffering any injury. However, the No. 2 outside receiver spot is going to be a test.
#bills
The Bills did a solid job updating their receiving core this offseason with the big move of trading for Chicago Bears wide receiver DJ Moore, but there are still a handful of other roster spots that need upgrades at the position.
One of the key areas to watch during training camp is who will be named the two outside starting receivers. Fansided's NFL insider, Jason La Canfora, identified the Bills' receiving competition as one of the eight biggest training camp battles.
"In most of these instances we are drilling down at a particular spot on the depth chart, and we certainly figure DJ Moore is the top guy here given what it took to get him, but this is kind of jumped. Keon Coleman has been a bit of a scapegoat for the Bills coming up short as an organization and Joshua Palmer is a nice depth signing with upside and Khalil Shakir has probably been overexposed and asked to do too much; maybe he settles into a slot-exclusive role now," La Canfora wrote on Thursday. "This group needs to step up its overall production, and they need Moore to be a legit go-to guy. I believe he will."
Moore is going to win one of the jobs if everything goes according to plan, which means not suffering any injury. However, the No. 2 outside receiver spot is going to be a test.
#bills
5 days ago
The offseason is nearly down for the New York Knicks and they're close to fully realizing their roster, but with just NBA roster spot remaining for New York, how the team manages that roster spot will be crucial.
One glaring need for the Knicks before the season begins is to land another center to replace Ariel Hukporti, who signed with the Philadelphia 76ers this offseason. Without Hukporti, the Knicks don't have a solid third option at center to back up Karl-Anthony Towns and Andre Drummond, so addressing that deficit in their roster is critical.
The same could be said about the power forward slot. Beyond OG Anunoby, the Knicks can rely on Towns to slot in at power forward, running a double big setup that relies on Towns' ability to ****** e the floor with his shooting ability, but having more support at the four would serve the Knicks well.
The free agent market may be limited, and the Knicks' desire to stay under the second apron should be considered, so with all of that in mind, there are three free agents that the Knicks could reasonably target to full out their roster in time for the pursuit of another championship.
Mason Plumlee has bounced around the NBA the last few seasons, playing with the Charlotte Hornets on a minimum contract during the 2024-25 season before being traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder, then subsequently waived by the Thunder. Plumlee didn't play again until the San Antonio Spurs signed him to a 10-day contract in February 2026, then being signed to a rest-of-season contract.
#towns #york
One glaring need for the Knicks before the season begins is to land another center to replace Ariel Hukporti, who signed with the Philadelphia 76ers this offseason. Without Hukporti, the Knicks don't have a solid third option at center to back up Karl-Anthony Towns and Andre Drummond, so addressing that deficit in their roster is critical.
The same could be said about the power forward slot. Beyond OG Anunoby, the Knicks can rely on Towns to slot in at power forward, running a double big setup that relies on Towns' ability to ****** e the floor with his shooting ability, but having more support at the four would serve the Knicks well.
The free agent market may be limited, and the Knicks' desire to stay under the second apron should be considered, so with all of that in mind, there are three free agents that the Knicks could reasonably target to full out their roster in time for the pursuit of another championship.
Mason Plumlee has bounced around the NBA the last few seasons, playing with the Charlotte Hornets on a minimum contract during the 2024-25 season before being traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder, then subsequently waived by the Thunder. Plumlee didn't play again until the San Antonio Spurs signed him to a 10-day contract in February 2026, then being signed to a rest-of-season contract.
#towns #york
5 days ago
Next up on our training camp preview is the tight end position. There are fix tight ends on the roster, but after the departure of David Njoku, all we really have confidence in is Harold Fannin, who had an outstanding rookie season. Who is the next man up, though? We also check out the team's fullback candidates heading into camp.
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 241 lbs | Age: 22
Experience: 2 years | College: Bowling Green
Browns fans are expecting big things from Harold Fannin this year. After his impressive rookie season with 731 yards receiving, fans are predicting him to be in the 800-1,000 yard receiving range. For some of the league's elite tight ends, that's not too far-fetched. In fact, Travis Kelce has done it all 11 seasons he's been in the NFL. However, David Njoku, who was viewed as an explosive receiving tight end for Cleveland, only surpassed 800 yards once in his 9 years with the team. It's easy to jump to that being more indicative of the Browns' quarterback situation as opposed to the talent of the tight end himself.
Nonetheless, the most important part here is that Fannin is viewed as a big-time weapon for this offense. As a rookie, he showed a nice mix of acrobatic catches and the strength to generate yards after the catch that didn't seem like they were even there. If there's one negative on his receiving game as a rookie, it would be that, in my opinion, he sometimes dropped the easy ones.
To grow his game over time, he'll need to be a better in-line blocking tight end. It took Njoku a few years to get to that point. For now, we'll see how Todd Monken's offense utilizes Fannin. Will he be kept in the slot more often like he was as a rookie, with one of the other guys on the depth chart taking on a heavier blocking role?
#tight #yards #david
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 241 lbs | Age: 22
Experience: 2 years | College: Bowling Green
Browns fans are expecting big things from Harold Fannin this year. After his impressive rookie season with 731 yards receiving, fans are predicting him to be in the 800-1,000 yard receiving range. For some of the league's elite tight ends, that's not too far-fetched. In fact, Travis Kelce has done it all 11 seasons he's been in the NFL. However, David Njoku, who was viewed as an explosive receiving tight end for Cleveland, only surpassed 800 yards once in his 9 years with the team. It's easy to jump to that being more indicative of the Browns' quarterback situation as opposed to the talent of the tight end himself.
Nonetheless, the most important part here is that Fannin is viewed as a big-time weapon for this offense. As a rookie, he showed a nice mix of acrobatic catches and the strength to generate yards after the catch that didn't seem like they were even there. If there's one negative on his receiving game as a rookie, it would be that, in my opinion, he sometimes dropped the easy ones.
To grow his game over time, he'll need to be a better in-line blocking tight end. It took Njoku a few years to get to that point. For now, we'll see how Todd Monken's offense utilizes Fannin. Will he be kept in the slot more often like he was as a rookie, with one of the other guys on the depth chart taking on a heavier blocking role?
#tight #yards #david
