Caitlin Clark shares honest take on rookie after Fever loss originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

There’s a natural tendency to focus on the scoreboard, especially in a preseason game that didn’t go the Indiana Fever’s way. But inside the locker room, the conversation was a little different. For Caitlin Clark, Thursday’s loss wasn’t just about what went wrong. It was also about what’s starting to come together. That includes rookie guard Raven Johnson.

The Fever fell 95-80 to the Dallas Wings in preseason action, a game that featured flashes of what this roster could become but also the kind of growing pains expected from a team still finding its rhythm. Clark was efficient in her limited run, finishing with 21 points in just 16 minutes before exiting in the third quarter following a collision. The decision to hold her out the rest of the way was precautionary, but it opened the door for Johnson to step into a larger role.

And that’s where things got interesting.

Raven Johnson steps into the moment

Johnson didn’t light up the box score, but she didn’t need to. The rookie finished with three points and five assists in 21 minutes, taking on primary ball-handling duties against a Wings team that applied steady pressure. It wasn’t perfect, but it was steady. Composed. Exactly the kind of showing you want from a first-year guard still adjusting to the pace and physicality of the WNBA. That adjustment period is real, and Clark didn’t shy away from saying it.

“The WNBA is a completely different style than what you play in college,” Clark said postgame. “Coach expects us to help younger players, and that’s what we’re going to do.”

It wasn’t framed as criticism. It was perspective. Johnson arrived with a strong résumé as a two-time national champion at South Carolina, which played a major role in Indiana selecting her with the No. 10 pick in the 2026 draft. But the transition to the pro level, especially at point guard, comes with a different kind of responsibility.

Clark knows that better than anyone.

Caitlin Clark’s message is simple but telling

Rather than overloading Johnson with technical advice, Clark kept her message direct. Ask questions. Stay curious. Keep learning. It sounds basic, but it reflects how Clark approaches her own development. Even as one of the faces of the league, she made it clear she’s still figuring things out in real time.

“I still ask questions every single day,” Clark said. “Trying to be that for Raven and the rest of the new people on this team.”

That mentorship piece matters more than it might seem on the surface. The Fever aren’t just building around star power. They’re trying to establish a system where young players can grow quickly without being overwhelmed. Johnson’s willingness to engage in that process has already stood out.

“She asks a lot of really great questions,” Clark added. “As a point guard, it’s a whole other load to carry.”

More: Cameron Brink’s throwback look grabs attention as Sparks hope for healthy reset

Why this matters for Indiana moving forward

For Indiana, this isn’t just about one preseason game. It’s about building depth behind Clark and creating stability at the guard position. Johnson’s early reps, especially in situations where she’s forced into a lead role, are part of that long-term equation.

There will be uneven moments. That’s expected. But if Thursday showed anything, it’s that the foundation is there. Johnson looks comfortable enough to run the offense in stretches, and with Clark guiding the process, the learning curve could speed up.

The Fever wrap up preseason play Saturday against the Nigeria Women’s National Team before turning their attention to the regular season.

And if Clark’s comments are any indication, Johnson’s development is going to be one of the more important storylines to watch early on.

More WNBA news:

• Cameron Brink’s throwback look grabs attention as Sparks hope for healthy reset
• Caitlin Clark’s early dominance overshadowed by injury scare in Fever loss
• Sophie Cunningham’s off-court moment with Brittany Mahomes says more about her Fever return than the stat line
• Fever’s Caitlin Clark shares message that speaks to bond with Stephanie White
• Sophie Cunningham situation takes turn as Fever GM declines to clarify contract decision

Pep Guardiola has confirmed that Rodri is improving after injury, though he’s still yet to train with the team ahead of Manchester City’s trip away to Everton.

Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images

Manchester City midfielder Rodri picked up an injury during his team’s recent win over Arsenal, forcing him out of their next couple of games against Burnley and Southampton.

But Pep Guardiola has now revealed that the 29-year-old’s problem is improving, and whilst the player is yet to rejoin training, the manager feels confident about his chances ahead of City’s next match on Monday.

“[Rodri] is getting better,” Guardiola confirmed. “Still he hasn’t trained so we will see in the next few days. Always I am confident.”

Photo by George Wood/Getty Images

City’s other injury issues include Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol, with Guardiola again confirming that the defenders are improving, but not taking part in full training so far.

“Ruben [Dias] is not yet with the team,” Guardiola said. “Him, Josko [Gvardiol] and Rodri are getting better.”

Excluding those three, City have a clean bill of health going into the final month of the season, a luxury for any club with something to play for at this stage. West Ham United are the only club in the Premier League with fewer injury doubts at the time of writing.

Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images

City will need their full squad for the coming weeks, as they’re set to play six matches in 21 days to round out the season. Five of those are Premier League fixtures, as they try to pip Arsenal to the title. The other is the FA Cup final on May 16th.

In another enthralling and close matchup between Penn State and Maryland, defense yet again ruled the day, with the same result: in favor of the Nittany Lions. The 15th ranked and second seeded Nittany Lions took down the Terps for the second time this season, this time with a Big Ten tournament finals berth on the line. It was an 8-6 result that saw another brilliant defensive performance, with a new star leading the charge.

Sophomore Hunter Aquino was excellent as always, scoring three goals to lead the team. However, the charge was led by a defensive unit that forced seven turnovers on the night and saw freshman goalie Preston Hawkins have yet another fantastic performance in net, recording eight saves. While Penn State went down early in the first quarter, Aquino made sure they had the lead headed into the second. From there, the defense held Maryland goalless for a 28 minute stretch in the second quarter.

Another shocking development that helped the Blue and White was in the faceoff dot. Of the 18 faceoffs throughout the game, the Nittany Lions won eleven of them, which was no mean feat going up against one of the country's most dominant faceoff winners in Maryland's Henry Dodge.

The Nittany Lions will now go on to face the top-seeded Johns Hopkins Blue Jays in the championship match tomorrow at noon ET. Coverage will be broadcast on the Big Ten Network.

This article originally appeared on Nittany Lions Wire: Penn State lacrosse bests Maryland in Big Ten semifinal

They arrive at Destin every year on the heels of Memorial Day weekend, the power brokers of the most popular conference in college sports typically hanging out for some fun and sun during a semi-working trip to Florida’s panhandle. 

But not this time around. Not with so much at stake, and the clock ticking on defining decisions.   

This is shaping up to be the most consequential spring meetings in the history of the SEC. So much on the table, so many different ideas and opinions. 

So much uncertainty. 

Sports Seriously CFB Show: Brendan Sorsby betting 'just tip of the iceberg.' Our experts dissect scandal

And hanging over the entire week’s proceedings is the reality the Big Ten has become a significant threat. For the SEC’s 20-year perch atop the college football world, and more important, for future revenue generation.

There are fractures within the SEC about what to do with the iconic SEC championship game, and where to go with potential expansion of the College Football Playoff.

Coaches want CFP expansion, especially after the SEC moved to nine conference games for future media rights leverage, and with the idea that moving to nine games would extend the CFP format to 16 teams. 

But now that the Big Ten wants 24 teams — and the SEC hasn't shown any proclivity to move off 16 teams — SEC coaches feel as though they were duped into agreeing to a nine-game schedule. Though they really had no choice in the matter, anyway. 

Because the show is run by the 16 presidents and chancellors of the league. They receive information and options from commissioner Greg Sankey, and they make decisions. 

Opinion: Integrity for thee, casinos for me: The NCAA’s gambling lie

So forget about ridiculous social media narratives that Sankey is ruining college football, or that the league is running from competition. The presidents and chancellors make the decisions, and they’re typically based on revenue. 

How to get it, how to keep it.

Which should be an early indicator about where the conference is headed with the uncertainty of the SEC championship game. The idea of eliminating a wildly popular game that could potentially be sold as a stand alone property in future media rights deals, goes directly against the almighty hunt for cash. 

Unless, that is, the presidents and chancellors tire of CFP negotiations, and the frustrations of five years of uncertainty from the NIL era — and a complete failure of the Power conferences to agree on just about any big picture idea — and decide to go on their own and produce their own eight-team SEC playoff. 

Everything is on the table, and nothing is too far-fetched.

For so long, these meetings have been more about provincial small projects within each sport, and less about heavy lifting for the conference as a whole.

There has been drama in the past, but it typically revolved around football and coaches behaving poorly. Like when Lane Kiffin first arrived in 2009 as the coach at Tennessee and made outlandish accusations, and Florida coach Urban Meyer and South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier — and former SEC commissioner Mike Slive — let him know he was out of line during the closed door coaches meetings. 

Or in 2022, when Jimbo Fisher and Nick Saban publicly squabbled about how Texas A&M landed the No.1-ranked recruiting class in the nation.

Sankey would do backflips to have those problems now, instead of the current unstable landscape.       

In these rare and uncertain times of shared revenue and the inability of college sports to get legal arms around private NIL deals and free player movement, it may just take another paradigm shift to set a fiscally prudent and structurally sound future course.

It all begins in a month at the SEC spring meetings. Big change won’t happen quickly, but the seeds of future moves will be planted. 

The only question is just how far the SEC will go? 

Matt Hayes is the senior national college football writer for USA TODAY Sports Network. Follow him on X at @MattHayesCFB. 

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: SEC is one month from most important spring meetings ever

The Dallas Cowboys are no strangers to criticism, so when the occasional compliment surfaces, it’s important to acknowledge it with open arms. One particular post-draft compliment comes on the heels of Dallas’ handling of the linebacker position.

After striking out in free agency, the natural instinct for the Cowboys would have been to panic. The linebacker position was in desperate need of starting talent, and the 2026 NFL draft offered a decent amount of inside linebacker depth. But Dallas didn’t panic, they adjusted to the dynamic circumstances of the draft and pivoted accordingly, ultimately landing praise from a podcast duo who are normally critical.

On the Check the Mic podcast with Steve Palazzolo and Sam Monson (both formerly of PFF), they pointed out the Cowboys needs at linebacker and complimented Dallas’ way of not forcing the issue in the first round.

As everyone now knows, instead of trading up early for Sonny Styles, the Cowboys waited patiently for star safety Caleb Downs to fall within striking distance. Later in the first, instead of reaching on players like C.J. Allen, Jacob Rodriguez or Anthony Hill, Dallas resisted the urge and stuck to their board, selecting edge rusher Malachi Lawrence at pick No. 23. Without another pick until late in the third round, it would have natural and even understandable if they forced the issue at linebacker but instead, they pivoted to Plan B and based on Check the Mic reviews, they showed “good process.”

The Cowboys' handling of the linebacker position wasn’t praised just because they stuck to their board, but also because they worked other channels in the background. They had a flow of conversation open with the San Francisco 49ers ever since the Osa Odighizuwa trade. Previously, they expressed their interest in veteran linebacker Dee Winters, so when they reengaged conversation during the draft, things were able to move quickly.

Adding Winters in exchange for a fifth-round pick allowed the Cowboys to get a plug-and-play starter without burning top draft capital to get it. It gave the Cowboys the power to stick to their board and fill and important need in the process. It was basically a master class in draft day discipline and offseason contingency plans.

As luck would have it, Jaishawn Barham would fall to the Cowboys in the third round. The Michigan edge rusher was a projected inside linebacker by the Cowboys coaching staff and offered exceptional value to Dallas at pick No. 92.

Under normal circumstances Barham might have been a gamble given his questionable experience inside. But with a veteran like Winters plugged in ahead of him, the Cowboys can bring the rookie along slowly, keeping the big picture in mind. Again, Winters allowed the Cowboys to stick to their board and not draft solely on who can help the most on Day 1.

Cowboys fans will tell you the inside linebacker spot is far from perfect and could still use additional personnel. But as far as how the Cowboys handled linebacker during the offseason, the Cowboys showed “good process” in their restraint, discipline and adaptability.  

You can follow Reid on X @ReidDHanson and be sure to follow Cowboys Wire on Facebook to join in on the conversation with fellow fans!

This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: Cowboys praised for ‘good process’ in trade-and-draft LB strategy

The loss of eight reserves along the Oregon Ducks' defensive line via the transfer portal in January was well covered, as the Ducks return a star quartet of starters. They then added depth in the portal, positioning themselves to be solid along the defensive line this fall.

But that's not to say that the talent that walked out the door was easy to stomach for head coach Dan Lanning and defensive coordinator Chris Hampton. One of the highest-impact defenders among those eight departures was Tionne Gray, who landed with the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.

Gray was named by The Athletic's Sam Khan Jr. as the 14th-best transfer portal defensive lineman, a list that's highlighted by Miami's Damon Wilson II and LSU's Princewill Umanmielen. Here's what Khan had to say about the former Duck:

"Gray played in a rotational role last season (275 snaps), but he showed a lot of promise, given his massive size and strength," he wrote. "He has no problem occupying multiple offensive linemen and holding the point of attack in the interior defensive line. Gray and fellow transfer Brewu will give Notre Dame an impressive defensive tackle duo going into 2026."

As a redshirt freshman in 2025, Gray registered 18 total tackles and impressed behind starters Bear Alexander and A'Mauri Washington. He has a massive 6-foot-6, 336-pound frame, allowing Gray to take on multiple blockers and allow opportunities for his teammates.

He would've commanded an even bigger role in 2026 for the Ducks, but not as big of a role as he'll fill with the Fighting Irish, where he's expected to start at defensive tackle.

Gray's situation is simply another instance of the talent up and down Oregon's roster, where there ultimately isn't enough snaps to go around and make everyone happy. While it may seem like a negative in the short-term, as a bevy of Ducks departed in the portal, it should act as a positive of the recruiting work of Lanning and Hampton that a rotational piece like Gray is headed to start at Notre Dame, another premier program in college football.

Contact/Follow @Ducks_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oregon Ducks news, notes, and opinions.

This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: Former Oregon DL Tionne Gray expected to blossom at Notre Dame

MIAMI, Fla. — There is a version of the McLaren Golf story that works.

The clubs are real, and the performance is there. I have hit the Series 3 irons and you feel it immediately. At impact, there is a clean, solid sensation, along with the kind of feedback that makes better players nod quietly and reach for another ball. They look the part, too. While they are a better-player’s distance iron, when you look down at them in the address position, you see a sleek sedan and aesthetics that seem built rather than assembled. For a company playing its first round in the equipment game, that’s a great start.

But the golf world has seen this movie before, and the portion that contains the opening credits is always the same. Big name. Bold pricing. Talk of disruption and the promise of something new. A launch event featuring loud videos, splashes of colors and plenty of promises. And then, somewhere around the 18 to 24-month mark, the real test begins.

McLaren Golf has hired enough industry veterans to know what it’s walking into. It has been careful to distance itself from the co-branding arrangements the golf world has seen before. This isn’t Oracle Red Bull Racing x TaylorMade. It isn’t Ferrari x Cobra Golf from back in 2012. McLaren Golf wants to be a golf company, full stop, not a licensing deal dressed up in carbon fiber and papaya orange.

That’s the right instinct, but the problem is that the market doesn’t make that distinction yet. When people see the McLaren name on a hosel, the first thing they think about is Zak Brown and the Monaco paddock, not a metal injection molded iron built for a golfer who wants more feel and forgiveness.

That’s the gap McLaren Golf has to cross, and it’s wider than it looks.

More: McLaren Golf releases the Series 1 and Series 3 irons

Justin Rose is the right man to help close it. At 45, Rose has become something of a sympathetic figure in professional golf after finishing second to Rory McIlroy at the 2025 Masters. He’s a player known for precision, attention to detail, preparation. When he had briefly had the lead at 2026 Masters a few weeks ago, before he finished T-3, people rooted for him. He’s likable, media-savvy and his game translates perfectly with what McLaren Golf is trying to say about itself.

If Rose contends in majors with McLaren irons in his bright orange bag, it will create the kind of visibility and validation that startup brands dreams of.

Ian Poulter and Michelle Wie West, who are also brand ambassadors and equity holders, feel like a different calculation. Poulter, now on LIV Golf, isn’t playing in majors and isn’t on network television. He’s a recognizable name, but recognition fades when the camera stops following you. Wie West is iconic, genuinely, but she hasn’t been a competitive presence in years. Both signings feel less like performance endorsements and more like additions to McLaren’s social media infrastructure. Reach over relevance. That’s not necessarily wrong for a brand in launch mode, but it puts more weight on Rose’s shoulders than any one player might want to carry.

And then there’s the price.

The $375 per iron cost is real money. A set of seven clubs clears $2,500 before you’ve thought about a fitting or a bag. For a certain kind of golfer, the one who leases a new new luxury SUV every three years and keeps a locker at two or three private clubs, that price isn’t an issue. That player buys them because they’re good and because they’re McLaren. It’s a market that exists and PXG proved it. But PXG also proved something else: that you can’t live there forever.

McLaren launch event. pic.twitter.com/GbFRqFFUkm

— David Dusek (@Golfweek_Dusek) April 29, 2026

PXG launched as the maker of some of the most expensive gear in golf at a time when a lot of brands were still licking their wounds from the recession of 2008 and its fallout. It was built around the idea that extraordinary performance commanded extraordinary prices. The clubs were good, the buzz was real, and for several years, the ultra-premium positioning held. Then, quietly, the prices started coming down. Not dramatically, but meaningfully. Today, PXG drivers and irons are priced in line with companies like Callaway, Ping, TaylorMade and Titleist.

Fanboys buy once, but serious golfers buy on performance and value, even when value is relative.

McLaren Golf is at the beginning of that arc right now. The racing faithful will come. The company’s launch event in Miami was filled with beautiful people admiring Formula One cars, sipping champagne and watching splashy videos. They took selfies standing next to those impressive machines, often holding a club. They’ll admire the Series 1 blades, and many will buy the Series 3 irons. That’s the idea of a launch event, but those are not the people who will turn McLaren Golf into a success, thriving, long-term business.

The business is what happens after the launch event is over.

pic.twitter.com/Z4YejGbrJ6

— David Dusek (@Golfweek_Dusek) April 29, 2026

It’s what happens when McLaren needs to fill out those remaining categories. The drivers, the fairway woods, the wedges, the putters. All of those clubs, like the irons that were just released, are going to be compared not just to other premium clubs, but to the expectations set by the name McLaren. Given that name, and the positioning of the brand, golfers are going to want to know if McLaren gear outperforms stuff made by Cobra, Mizuno, and brands that cost less and carry decades of credibility.

McLaren’s clubs are good. The strategy of limited distribution, with direct-to-consumer sales and with sales through premium fitting partners makes sense. The Tour presence with Rose is smart. The ambition to be a 14-club brand is the right ambition.

But the challenge ahead isn’t making great clubs. McLaren can do that. The challenge is becoming a great golf company. One that people think about the way they think about Mizuno or Titleist or Ping, not because of what the name means in auto racing, but because of what it means on the range, in a fitting bay, and out on a course where the only thing that matters is what the ball does when you hit it.

McLaren Golf needs to be known for its clubs, not cars. Achieving that is a long race.

This article originally appeared on Golfweek: McLaren Golf can make golf clubs, but real test is just starting

It’s clear now, but when it was happening it was unknown exactly how the Los Angeles Rams were approaching the latest NFL Draft. The Rams didn’t exactly need to address cornerback or special teams through the draft, as they opted to try and address those moves through free agency.

Will the strategy work? Tune into this NFL season to find out.

The Rams had a chance to add a player in the draft who could’ve helped in 2026, even in a limted role, insteady they chose a player in Ty Simpson who they hope doesn’t take the field in 2026.

I think I’ve written these next two words more than once over the last week in relation to the Rams choosing Simpson at pick 13: It’s fascinating.

Is it logical? it is illogical? I do not know, but it’s fascinating.

Thank you for checking out Turf Show Times, happy Friday! Hope it’s a good one.

Why Jaylen Watson was the Rams’ key signing of the offseason (ramswire)

“However, what will make Watson great in 2026 isn’t the scheme or his teammates. It’s timing. The only way to beat Shula’s scheme, unless you have a generational running back, is to attack the underneath early with the pass, to then force Shula into having a single-high safety. Whichever safety drops, whether it’s Kam Curl or Kam Kinchens, they would often have to be reactionary, messing up the timing of their attack. There were fears that the outside would get beaten to the punch for receivers coming inside, allowing a seam for players to advance the ball upfield.”

Why the Rams Passed on Makai Lemon, Kenyon Sadiq in Order to Draft Ty Simpson (si.com)

“Could Sadiq or Lemon have been valuable depth pieces? Certainly, Lemon in particular, who could be a valuable addition to the wide receiver room, especially with Davante Adams having dealt with hamstring injuries last season. Simpson, however, has the potential to be an invaluable piece of Los Angeles’s football, and it’s hard to imagine that the Rams would’ve been picking early enough in the draft in any of the next few seasons to grab one of the top quarterbacks in the class of 2027 or ’28. Getting Simpson now addresses the quarterback position for the long haul, and secures a talent the Rams may not have had the chance to draft down the line.”

Why the Rams see Simpson as Stafford’s heir apparent (espn.com)

“In Simpson, the Rams noticed “his intelligence” and watched him play in the pro-style system that Alabama uses.

“He makes a lot of pro-style throws, and it was very easy to see the translation,” Blake said.

Although Simpson made only 15 college starts after sitting behind Bryce Young and Jalen Milroe, the Rams thought he was the right player to draft as the likely successor to Matthew Stafford. Los Angeles selected Simpson with the No. 13 pick in last weekend’s NFL draft.

Those 15 career starts are the fourth fewest by any first-round quarterback over the past 25 years, according to ESPN Research. Only Anthony Richardson Sr. (13), Mitchell Trubisky (13) and Dwayne Haskins (14) had fewer.“

Nuer Gatkuoth has several football paths ahead of him.

The most prestigious path would be to play in the NFL. The Wake Forest edge defender has accepted an invite to attend Denver Broncos rookie minicamp on a tryout basis, hoping to impress enough to win a spot on the 90-man offseason roster.

If the 23-year-old pass rusher doesn't receive a roster offer from the Broncos, he could return to his home country to continue his football career. The Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the Canadian Football League selected Gatkuoth with the fourth overall pick in the first round of the CFL draft on Tuesday evening.

The Bombers select Nuer Gatkuoth at the fourth spot! #CFLDraftpic.twitter.com/13GgPzZm91

— CFL (@CFL) April 28, 2026

Gatkuoth (6-3, 237 pounds) was born in Edmonton, and he played high school football in Alberta and Toronto before moving to Atlanta. At the college level, he spent three years at Colorado State before transferring to Wake Forest in 2025. Gatkuoth totaled 21 tackles, two sacks, one interception and one pass breakup with the Demon Deacons last fall.

Social: Follow Broncos Wire on Facebook and Twitter/X! Did you know: These 25 celebrities are Broncos fans.

This article originally appeared on Broncos Wire: NFL news: CFL team drafts Broncos minicamp invitee Nuer Gatkuoth

WWE Backlash is just over a week away and the blue brand is in Tulsa, Oklahoma to put the finishing touches on the upcoming premium live event's scheduled matches. We know Ricky Saints will make his debut, but we might also hear a little more about CM Punk and Cody Rhodes' program as well as Jacob Fatu's upcoming title shot against Roman Reigns. Let's get into it.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Show: WWE Friday Night SmackDown
• Date: Friday, May 1, 2026
• Venue: BOK Center, Tulsa, Oklahoma
• Start Time: 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT
• U.S. Broadcast: USA Network
• International Broadcast: Netflix

How to Watch WWE SmackDown

There is no special start time for this week's episode of SmackDown.

The show airs live at 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT on USA Network from the BOK Center in Tulsa, with Netflix carrying the broadcast across most major international markets including Canada, the UK, Australia, and Mexico. Peacock subscribers can stream the episode on-demand after it airs.

Ricky Saints Makes His Main Roster Debut

Saints put Shiloh Hill over on his way out of the door in NXT. We will see if Saints can make an impact on the main roster.

The former NXT Champion’s debut tonight is expected to be a showcase squash match against an unannounced opponent, with WWE laying the groundwork through a vignette package on last week's SmackDown. Given how the company has handled the rollout, expect a star-making presentation right out of the gate.

Charlotte Flair vs. Jacy Jayne

Jacy Jayne and Fatal Influence made a memorable debut last week as the trio was booed out of the building. Jayne is the real deal, so I expect her to bounce back and WWE is likely serious about giving her and her faction a push.

Jayne, Fallon Henley, and Lainey Reid attacked Charlotte Flair, Alexa Bliss, Brie Bella, and Paige during last week’s Women's Tag Team Championship match, costing them the title shot. Flair told Bliss backstage she'd handle Jayne herself this week, which sets the table for plenty of Fatal Influence interference and a likely Backlash payoff.

What Should Fans Expect on the Road to Backlash?

With three matches confirmed, it is very possible we see at least one more added on Friday. Punk vs. Rhodes is likely built to play out down the road like Money in the Bank or SummerSlam.

The Raw side of Backlash is already locked with Roman Reigns vs. Jacob Fatu, Seth Rollins vs. Bron Breakker, and Asuka vs. IYO SKY, but the SmackDown half is wide open. With Cody Rhodes still recovering from the orbital injury Randy Orton inflicted at WrestleMania 42, expect tonight to clarify exactly what direction WWE takes the Undisputed WWE Championship picture.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

In the midst of the scandal revolving around the alleged affair between NFL insider Dianna Russini and New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel came a truly bizarre twist in the story.

Just one day after Russini defiantly resigned from The Athletic while defending her character and integrity, the New York Post’s Page Six (which published the original pictures of Russini and Vrabel together at a swanky Arizona resort) published a very different story about her.

The exclusive headline of the story from Oli Coleman was, “Dianna Russini mounts daring rescue of elderly man, dog trapped in car crash a week after Mike Vrabel scandal.” The story detailed the reporter somehow finding herself at the scene of an accident in suburban New Jersey where a Jeep had flipped over. An eyewitness told Page Six that a man had lifted Russini on top of the rolled over Jeep to help pull the driver and his dog out of the car. What are the odds that someone going through a career crisis would suddenly commit such a heroic act that would help salvage at least some of her public reputation?

However, that story is now coming under serious doubt.

Page Six filed a major update two weeks later with Coleman writing a new story entitled, “Bizarre twist in Dianna Russini crash story as witness claims she didn’t save driver.” The new story details that a second person stepped forward to say that Russini did not climb the vehicle to rescue the driver. She was indeed at the scene to help, but she held onto the dog’s leash while the second witness’ husband was the one who ripped open the canvas of the Jeep to free the driver and dog.

Weird, right? What could explain the near complete backtrack? That’s where a 49ers and sports betting podcaster comes in.

Tony Farmer has been posting several videos with what he has been hearing throughout the saga involving Mike Vrabel and Dianna Russini. Just after the Page Six update was published, Farmer posted an article on his X page detailing his own research into the car crash story.

Farmer found the police report from the accident that does not mention Russini by name. He then showed his own correspondence with Farmer and a PR rep asking questions about his reporting in the first story about the incident. After Farmer’s inquiries, the Post published the new Page Six story.

I made 2 @PageSix employees including @OliJColeman aware that I was dropping a story tomorrow that contradicted their reporting of the Russini “rescue”

Oli wouldn’t talk on record and 4 Hours later published essentially my version.

[My phone and Email are on Pacific Time] pic.twitter.com/X6WmLFwWOZ

— Tony Farmer (@Tonysmarkettips) May 1, 2026

In a follow-up post on Friday morning, Farmer went into further detail when looking at pictures from the accident scene why climbing on top of the Jeep was impractical from the start.

When it comes to the when, how, and why of the new Page Six story, it appears that Farmer has the goods in documenting what happened behind the scenes. But the question that has to be asked now is why this story would come to light in the first place and how Dianna Russini rescuing someone from a car crash made it into national headlines if that wasn’t actually the case? Russini deleted her social media accounts last week, so it’s unlikely that we will be getting an explanation from her about this story, or anything else for that matter, for the foreseeable future.

The post New reporting casts Dianna Russini car crash heroine story into doubt appeared first on Awful Announcing.

The Boston Celtics have built their teams in a number of ways over the decades, but few if any methods have born more fruit than through the NBA draft. The best players to suit up for the Celtics have, by and large, come to Boston either through being taken directly in the annual event, or via trades made that night.

And it is not just the top stars who have been picked up by the Celtics via the draft. Countless members of the storied ball club's alumni have been taken by the team via that annual event, and some schools are better represented than others. We can see blue blood programs and some very small schools both delivering top talent to Boston's rosters over the years, so we decided to take a look at which players came from which schools overall.

So without further ado, let's take a look at every player who has been drafted by the Celtics out of Franciscan University of Steubenville.

Jimmy Smith - forward

Draft year and position: second round (eighth pick, 16th overall), 1958 NBA Draft

Seasons at Franciscan University of Steubenville: unknown

Seasons played with Celtics: did not make the team

All stats and data courtesy of Basketball Reference.

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This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: Every Franciscan University of Steubenville player drafted by the Celtics

Tom Lowery has already swallowed the bitter pill of relegation once in his career and doesn't want to taste it again.

The 28-year-old was at Crewe when the Lancashire club dropped into League Two in England in 2022.

The midfielder once nicknamed 'Miniesta' came through the Crewe youth academy and felt the pain of relegation keenly.

"It's a horrible feeling," he said. "It's something that I definitely don't want to go through again.

"Those sorts of feelings and what it does for football clubs, it sticks with you and you don't want to experience that ever again."

Although Crewe were relegated, Lowery stayed in League One, signing for Portsmouth on a three-year contract, but his time there was blighted with injuries and he was loaned back to his boyhood club before being released at the end of the 2024-2025 season.

He signed for Kilmarnock last July and has found himself in another relegation battle as the 11th-placed Ayrshire side try to avoid the play-off spot.

Neil McCann's men will attempt to end a three-game winless run on Saturday at home to Dundee United.

"We've been playing well recently, maybe not got the results that we deserve, but everyone's feeling confident going into the last four games," added Lowery.

"The manager's message is to carry on with the performances that we've been producing but take our chances and not concede avoidable goals."

One of those avoidable goals was the difference between the teams at Pittodrie last weekend when Aberdeen scored in their first attack.

It was the third consecutive away game in which Killie had conceded in the opening minute, and Lowery says the players are working to cut out such lapses.

He said: "We're all feeling that and we're all really eager to put that right on Saturday, because that's the only thing we can do now is try and put it right in the next game."

We now know who the Phillies manager for the rest of this already beleaguered 2026 season will be, as Don Mattingly is serving in the interim role following the dismissal of Rob Thomson. But quickly after reports of Thomson’s firing hit the internet, more reports linking the Phillies to recently fired Red Sox manager Alex Cora that began over the weekend began to resurface. It was first Tuesday by USA Today’s Bob Nightengale that the Phillies officially offered the job to Cora, but he declined. That report and many after it were confirmed by Dave Dombrowski himself, who said in his press conference that Cora was offered the job Sunday morning, but Cora opted to spend the rest of this summer with his family.

So, the Phillies are Don Mattingly’s team for the remainder of 2026. But anything after that is completely up in the air. Mattingly had previously asserted when he took the Phillies bench coach job that he believed that he didn’t have the energy to be a manager again. Mattingly, who turned 65 last week, hasn’t been a full-time manager since 2022 when he led the Miami Marlins to a 69-93 record.

However, it does certainly appear that Alex Cora is the favorite to be in the dugout when the Phillies begin the 2027 season. Cora was fired last week by the Boston Red Sox who are off to their own dismal start. Cora, who previously worked under Dombrowski in Boston, had been the manager in Boston since 2018 with the exception of 2020. He was suspended for the entirety of the pandemic season for his central role in the 2017 Houston Astros sign stealing scandal when he was serving as bench coach under A.J. Hinch. Cora also won the 2018 World Series in his first year as manager with the Red Sox under Dombrowski. If Cora decides to be manage again by the time this season ends, he figures to be one of the hottest available candidates this offseason.

So, who will be the Phillies manager on Opening Day 2027? Will Dombrowski get his man with Cora? Will Mattingly perform well enough and get talked into coming back? Or is there another mystery candidate that you feel confident will be at the helm for the Phillies by then?

In Today’s Links: q and a from the desk of Seaside Joe, the Seattle Seahawks have signed six of their eight 2026 draft picks, more on the chisme surrounding the sale of our beloved squad, more on the fallout of our division rivals’ controversial picks, Thomas Rawls in the house, and more! Happy Friday! Thanks for being here. Go, ‘Hawks!

#np WASSUP by Young Miko

Seahawks News

Answers & Questions – Seaside Joe
IN HERE: Wisdom, advice, and queries from other Seahawks fans

Seahawks Sign Six Of Eight 2026 Draft Picks – Seahawks.com
The Seahawks signed six of their eight 2026 draft picks on the day rookies reported for this weekend’s rookie minicamp.

Seahawks introduce first-round pick Jadarian Price to Seattle – The Seattle Times
The Seahawks’ Jadarian Price did one of happy rituals for a first-round NFL draft pick — holding up his new jersey flanked by his new coach and general manager.

Seahawks’ ‘Jadarian Price Day’? Why the 1st-round pick already had one in Texas – The News Tribune
John Schneider wanted a celebration befitting a team holiday for their new, prized rookie. “Cool! All right, Jadarian Price Day!” the Seahawks general manager proclaimed to begin a press conference for the team’s first-round draft choice Thursday.

Seahawks sale: Mark Zuckerberg, Tim Cook reportedly not interested – The Spokesman-Review
The first report stating names who might be interested in buying the Seahawks surfaced Thursday and was refuted a few hours later.

‘Class Act’: Jadarian Price Brings Professional Approach, Rare Traits to Seahawks’ Backfield – Emerald City Spectrum
No matter where a prospect starred, even in an era now defined by NIL and the transfer portal that has blurred the lines between amateur and professional considerably, there’s no such thing as a college football player being 100% prepared for jumping up to the highest level of the sport in the NFL.

My thoughts on the rest of the NFC West in the 2026 NFL Draft – Seahawks Draft Blog
For starters, I’m not bothered that the Cardinals — in drafting a running back third overall — will guarantee Jeremiyah Love $50.5M, the most ever guaranteed to a player at his position.

Seahawks’ Tyrone Broden Makes Position Change to Cornerback – si.com
Tyrone Broden could see the field more for the Seattle Seahawks from wide receiver to cornerback.

Execs unfiltered on NFL Draft for every NFC team: Did the Rams get it right with Ty Simpson? – The Athletic
With the 2026 NFL Draft still fresh, it’s a good time to check in with team executives for perspectives on what they found most interesting.

Thomas Rawls Breaks Down Jadarian Price: Can He Be Seahawks RB 1? | Pass Pro, Scheme & More – Sea Hawkers Podcast
Former Seahawks RB Thomas Rawls joins the podcast to break down Seattle’s first-round draft pick, Jadarian Price out of Notre Dame.

NFC West News

Need to Know! Meet new Cardinals LB Karson Sharar – Revenge of the Birds
There is a need for good tacklers

Is it an issue that the 49ers deviate from consensus in drafts? – Niners Nation
The 49ers had a polarizing draft last week.

Rams 2026 draft reaction: Fans give “C” grade to picks – Turf Show Times
The majority of Rams fans are not keen of how Les Snead and Sean McVay used the 2026 draft picks

2027 Spanish Fork (Utah) Maple Mountain edge rusher Uhila Wolfgramm recently told Rivals he will be only taking five official visits before announcing a commitment. One of which will be to Michigan, as the Wolverines work to lock in a return date after the junior visited in April.

“It was great, loved it,” Wolfgramm told Maize n Brew. “Coach Powell is like an uncle to me, so it was a great time. I knew the coaches from here in Utah when they recruited me at Utah and BYU, so it felt like home. Great academics and community.”

The trip occurred not too long after Wolfgramm was offered by defensive ends coach Lewis Powell at the end of March. Wolfgramm made the cross-country trek alongside fellow 2027 edge rusher target Jag Ioane.

Along with Powell, head coach Kyle Whittingham is also actively involved in prioritizing Wolfgramm.

“It’s great, even talking with the players and how much it’s changed for the better at Michigan, you can feel it,” Wolfgramm said. “He’s had a great career at Utah and will take that to Michigan.”

So far, there are three schools Wolfgramm has set an official visit to before the start of the summer dead period. He’ll be at UCLA (May 15), Oklahoma (June 12) and BYU (June 19), while others like Utah, North Carolina and Arizona State are also in the running.

The next step is to schedule another visit to Michigan, with the program eyeing another Utah native to commit to the 2027 class. Currently, two pledges this cycle are West Region prospects, including four-star quarterback Kamden Lopati.

“Michigan is currently one of my top teams,” Wolfgramm said. “I’ll be returning for an official visit but need to find the date that will work best, but will take an OV for sure.”

The Arizona Cardinals, just a few short months ago, had a running back issue: they didn’t have hardly any.

Starter James Conner was out all season when he suffered a foot injury in Week 3. His sidekick was Trey Benson, who was selected in the third round of the 2024 NFL draft. In the following game, Benson went down with a meniscus injury.

RELATED: CARDINALS LAND JEREMYIAH LOVE

Suddenly, the third-string running back, Emari Demercado, was suddenly the starting back. Bam Knight had made the final roster as a return man, and now was being used to supplement Demercado. Practice squad player Michael Carter was elevated to the main roster, and Corey Kiner was grabbed off the practice squad of the Minnesota Vikings when Knight was injured later in the year. Two practice squad running backs, Sincere McCormick and Montrell Johnson Jr., were waived.

Backups and practice squad guys. That was Arizona’s running game. At season’s end, this group was ranked #31.

During the offseason, Carter signed with the Tennessee Titans to be reunited with his former coach, and Demercado was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs in free agency. Knight was re-signed, and Kiner was retained.

All the while, the Cardinals got a new running back coach, Matt Merritt. At this point, there weren’t many healthy bodies on the roster.

It was thought that Benson would return last season after being placed on IR. His 21-day practice window was opened on November 19. However, he didn’t look good at any of the practice sessions, and the coaching staff decided not to activate him. This went on for several weeks as the franchise had until December 10 to activate him, and finally, he remained on IR.

Going forward

From Week 4 to the end of the year in 2025, the Cardinals did not have a true starting running back on the roster. They were forced to use backups and guys claimed off of a practice squad to finish out the season.

Meanwhile, both Conner and Benson continued to rehab.

The problem with Benson was that he had a setback with joint effusion. This is typically a sterile, low-grade inflammatory process that can persist for weeks or even months. It all depends on whether the patient returns to stressful activity too soon or experiences repetitive loading. Basically, he had inflammation of the knee, which was causing a prolonged recovery.

While getting ready for the free agency market in March, what was the status of each back? After all, if one or both running backs weren’t going to be ready and available in time for training camp, GM Monti Ossenfort would need to bring in a new guy who has had starting experience in this league.

With both Conner and Benson being unknown, Ossenfort reached out and signed veteran Tyler Allgeier away from the Atlanta Falcons in free agency.

Which means what exactly?

If both Conner and Benson are completely healthy, all of their rehab is done, and they have the green light from the doctors, it should be back to last year’s plan, right? Conner as the bruising starter, with Benson as the quick sidekick, with a dose of Knight sprinkled in on occasion?  

It would seem that Allgeier was the safety valve. He is a starting-caliber back who had his job taken away from him. In his rookie year, he started just seven games and ran for 1,035 yards on 210 carries with 53 first down conversions, three TDs, a 4.9 yards per attempt average, plus had 16 receptions for 139 yards and another score.

The following April, Atlanta drafted Bijon Robinson out of Texas with the eighth overall pick, two spots after Arizona took OT Paris Johnson. So long, Allgeier, welcome to the NFL, young Bijon was the Falcons’ new attitude.

Allgeier signed with the Cardinals to retake his place as a starting NFL running back, instead of being relegated to the pine and a carry here and there.

The love nest

With so many months before the 2026 NFL draft, the Cardinals were linked to several players, mostly OT Francis Mauigoa, EDGE David Bailey, and EDGE Arvell Reese. As April approached, suddenly the name of RB Jeremyiah Love of Notre Dame began to surface.

With a running back room of Conner, Benson, Knight, and now Allgeier, certainly Arizona would go in a different direction, correct?

If they choose Love, they are stating that he is the starting running back in Week 1. There is a saying: The NFL draft shows your actual worth, and not your perceived value. If the Cardinals took Love with the #3 pick, they are saying that he is not only the future of this offense, but he is the present as well.

Arizona ditched its defensive-minded head coach and hired Mike LaFleur from the Los Angeles Rams, an offensive guy. In no time, the Cardinals will resemble both the Rams and the 49ers on that side of the ball. Which is a very good thing.

And LaFleur wanted Love. So, Ossenfort drafted him. Now, would LaFleur have insisted on Love if Conner and Benson weren’t injured last year? Probably. That is a good tandem.

Benson has 4.39 speed. He gained almost 1,000 yards in each of his last two seasons at Florida State and scored 24 touchdowns. He is a very good receiver and has that extra gear. He demonstrates serious strength and balance and will use his frame to run aggressively. Is he a good pass blocker? No. Does he exhibit improved understanding of angles and block following? Yes indeed.    

Conner, on the other hand, is a beast of a blocker. He is able to pick up blitzes and will not shy away from any linebacker, safety, or even a rogue defensive lineman. He runs in a direct line, and if a defender is in his lane, then he deals with it. About the same height as Love, but he has an extra 20 pounds of punch behind his running. Before the injury last year, he rushed for over 1,000 yards in the past two seasons and was an exceptional part of the passing attack.

Love is an exceptional running back. Some media outlets have used the word “generational” to describe his abilities, which probably is giving the talented back too much credit. But he is pretty damn good.

He was a prevailing back in college football in 2025. How long has Notre Dame been offering and playing football? With this in mind, Love broke or tied seven school records in the sport:

Consecutive Games with a Rushing TD: 13 games (set in 2024)

Single-Season Total Touchdowns: Broke the record for most total TDs (21)

Single-Season Rushing Touchdowns: Tied the school record (18)

Longest Rushing TD (CFP): 98-yard touchdown run

Single-Game Rushing Yards at Notre Dame Stadium: 228 yards

First player in Notre Dame history to record multiple seasons with 17+ rushing touchdowns: 17 (2024), 18 (2025)

Recorded 495 career touches without a fumble

For decades, the pinnacle of college football has been Notre Dame. How many running backs have come and gone from this storied program? And suddenly, Love comes along and not only dominates college football for two years, but sets longtime school records?

They have Connor, Benson, Allgeier, and now Love.

Expectations

What is going to happen from this point going forward? Most clubs only keep three running backs. Occasionally, a team will retain four, but that means one less defensive lineman, offensive lineman, or defensive back will be on the roster.  

Bam Knight might find a roster spot as a kickoff returner if he can show his worth in this regard. But currently, the depth chart lists WR Devin Duvernay as both punt and kickoff returner. He was signed as a return man.

But what about Benson? The team has had high hopes since taking him in the third round, and he has great speed. Benson is awesome, but he honestly can’t compete with Love. If he can stay healthy, he will most likely become RB3 or get traded. He still has trade value.

Unfortunately, when Conner went down last year, that was Benson’s time to shine. It was very unfortunate that only one week went by before he sustained his own injury that eliminated him from the entire season. Not his fault, but also an untimely opportunity.

And Conner? Does he become a permanent backup, or will he be traded as well? In training camp, he will be fighting for the backup RB role with Allgeier and probably Benson. In March, he restructured his contract that kept him on the roster with one year remaining on his deal. He is known as a leader, a fan favorite, and a key locker room presence. The nine-year veteran has rushed for 6,065 yards with a ton of catches (289) for 2,255 yards in his NFL career, so he has an advantage with the passing game. Conner has 72 total touchdowns, of which 60 were on the ground.

Conner faces a competitive backfield and will turn 31 this spring. He has two Pro Bowls, one while with Arizona. He is the former ACC Offensive Player of the Year and a First Team All-American, so he has juice. He has been present in the Cardinals’ offseason program.

He was excellent on the field when healthy, but when he returns, what will become his status as an NFL running back? Will he be able to cut as before? Will he become more tentative with cuts? Will he still have that secondary gear when he pops free?

All of these questions can be asked of Benson as well, who has had a rough time with this recovery and rehab. For the Cardinals, who do they keep?

And any conversation on what to keep and what to get rid of, just might begin with financials for the upcoming season:

• James Conner: Year 2 of two-year extension, cap hit of $4.83 million
• Trey Benson: Year 3 of a four-year rookie deal, cap hit of $1.65 million
• Tyler Allgeier: Year 1 of two-year deal, cap hit of $4.35 million
• Bam Knight: Year 1 of one-year deal, cap hit of $1.195 million
• Corey Kiner: Year 2 of two-year deal, cap hit of $1.05 million    

We all know Love will be a key component in the transition from Jonathan Gannon to LaFleur in 2026.

The only question remains: Who will become Love’s running mates?

Carlos Prates is laser-focused on Saturday’s big fight against Jack Della Maddalena, but if he wins, there’s only one thing in his eyes that makes sense.

Prates faces Della Maddalena in the main event of this weekend’s UFC Perth event. After knocking out Leon Edwards in his most recent bout at UFC 322 this past November, “The Nightmare” feels getting back-to-back victories over former world titleholders should put him over the top to fight for the UFC welterweight championship next.

“The title shot [is next],” Prates told MMA Fighting. “Because I’m going to beat two former champs in a row, you know? So yeah, nobody [else] did it. You have Morales, but he didn’t [beat] any former champ. You have Ian [Machado Garry], he’s going to fight now against Makhachev. So the next gonna be Carlos Prates.”

The welterweight division is quite interesting at the moment with Islam Makhachev still waiting for his title defense to be announced, with Morales and Garry at the top of the contender list.

Another name that has been calling for a title shot is former champion Kamaru Usman following his lopsided decision win over Joaquin Buckley at UFC Atlanta a little less than a year ago. Prates was asked if a fight with Usman could be next considering the magnitude of that opportunity, and with all due respect to Usman, Prates shut that down quickly:

“No, [Kamaru Usman doesn’t make sense], it’s going to be a title shot. No chance. After that fight, I’m just going to fight for the belt.”

The most intriguing name in the 170-pound title conversation is a man who has never competed in the division in the UFC: current lightweight champion and former 145-pound titleholder Ilia Topuria.

“El Matador” is set to defend his title for the first time against interim champ Justin Gaethje in the main event of the UFC White House card in June. Should Topuria get his hand raised, many believe he’ll vacate that title as well and move up to welterweight to face Makhachev.

Prates was asked how he would react to watching Topuria jump him, and the rest of the line for the belt, and his response was hilarious.

“OK, so then I go to the lightweights, I’m going to fight to the lightweight belt,” Prates said. “I can do 155. Of course, I can. Normally I have 85 kg, 84, so I can do lightweight. But I’m kidding.

“I don’t want to do too much diet anymore. But, yeah, let’s see. I’m not thinking about that, but let’s see. If it’s happening, I’m going to wait.”

The Avalanche’s second-round opponent has been determined. The first game of the second round is scheduled for this weekend. Also, Lady Byng Trophy finalists were announced, and three other series could either end tonight or extend to a Game 7.

All that and more on this edition of Deen’s Daily — May 1.

The Colorado Avalanche are facing the Minnesota Wild in the second round! Please consider donating to the Colorado Hockey Now Playoff Travel Fund via PAYPAL BY CLICKING HERE or VENMO BY CLICKING HERE to help our beat writer continue to provide road coverage during a must-see second-round series.

Colorado Hockey Now

The Avalanche and Minnesota Wild will battle for the right to represent the Central Division in the Western Conference Final.

Earlier in the day, the Avalanche practiced at Family Sports. It was their second day in a row on the ice, but they’ll take Friday off as they prepare for what might be a Game 1 on either Sunday or Monday. Are they watching other hockey games while waiting? I asked some of the guys in the room. Here’s what they had to say.

Stanley Cup Playoffs Recap

Game 6 Recap —Stars 2 at Wild 5 — (MIN wins 4-2)

The Wild eliminated the Dallas Stars in six games after trailing the series 2-1 after Game 3. Minnesota advances to the second round for the first time since 2015. Meanwhile, the Stars have played in the Western Conference Final for three consecutive seasons. The last time they were eliminated in the first round was in 2022.

Game 6 Recap — Oilers 2 at Ducks 5 — (ANA wins 4-2)

We are going to have a completely different Western Conference Final this year. After two consecutive years of Edmonton vs. Dallas in the third round, both teams were eliminated on the same day. Anaheim joins Minnesota as a second-round team for the first time in years. The Ducks’ last appearance was in 2018.

Meanwhile, the Avalanche last played in the second round in 2024, while the Vegas Golden Knights, who could advance with a win tonight over Utah, were in the second round last year.

Tonight’s Schedule

• Game 6: Tampa Bay Lightning at Montreal Canadiens (5 pm MT on ESPN 2)
• Game 6: Buffalo Sabres at Boston Bruins (5:30 pm on ESPN)
• Game 6: Vegas Golden Knights at Utah Mammoth (8 pm MT on ESN)

Around The NHL

Pittsburgh Hockey Now: It might be time for sweeping changes in Pittsburgh after falling to the Flyers in six games.

Montreal Hockey Now: The Lady Byng Trophy finalists were announced, and one of the Canadiens’ forwards was among them.

Boston Hockey Now: The latest on Viktor Arvidsson, who was injured in Game 5.

Carolina Hockey Now: We now know when the second round will officially begin. Philly and Carolina will play on Saturday, even though the first round could extend until Sunday. The NHL was smart to do this. Dallas and Edmonton both falling on Thursday means that there wouldn’t have been any games scheduled for tomorrow. There was no reason to let Saturday remain open without games.

The post Deen’s Daily: A Shift In The West; Carolina Plays Saturday, What About Colorado?; Lady Byng Finalists appeared first on Colorado Hockey Now.

Harry Kane has continued to set the standard at Bayern Munich, scoring and creating goals for fun. It’s no surprise, therefore, that the Englishman has drawn level with Giovane Élber’s 139 goals and has already moved into the top 10 of Bayern’s all-time goal scorers. Kane has done it in just three seasons:

The former Tottenham Hotspur striker is averaging almost a goal per game (0.98 to be precise). If you look at those rankings, you can already see that his average is clear of the known goal scorers like club legend Gerd Müller (0.93) and Robert Lewandowski (0.92), and those two are the only other players averaging over 0.9 goals

Kane also has incredible support from his teammates. Michael Olise and Luis Díaz are both goal scorers and goal providers; the two of them along with Kane just crossed the 100-goal threshold across all competitions in the 5-4 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League. Considering the Bavarians only paid a combined €218 million for those three when they bought them, those are three bargains over the course of three years.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler recently published an article with intel gathered about all 32 draft classes from various scouts, coaches, and executives around the League. He shared two Chicago Bears nuggets he learned from his sources. One was about a first-round backup plan that the Bears contemplated on day two, while the other was about a day three selection.

“The Bears eyed a trade-up in the second round but chose to stand pat,” Fowler wrote. “They were high on Tennessee cornerback Colton Hood, who went No. 37 to the Giants. Chicago figured its No. 25 pick, Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman, would be gone in the top 20, so perhaps Hood would’ve been a viable fallback option there if Thieneman was off the board.”

Zack Pearson, who is on the Bears’ beat for the Bear Report, confirmed that Chicago did have Hood “high on their board,” while adding that Hood “was 100% an option at 25 if Thieneman wasn’t there.”

You’ll get no complaints from me about Thieneman at 25, though I’m also a fan of what I’ve seen of Hood.

I’m also a fan of what Texas cornerback Malik Muhammad, Chicago’s fourth-round pick, can bring to the Bears. ESPN’s Matt Miller picked Muhammad as one of his top 100 favorite selections in the draft, but he’s not the day three player that Fowler had some intel on.

“The Bears believe they’re getting a steal with sixth-round defensive tackle Jordan van den Berg out of Georgia Tech,” Fowler added. “Several of his testing numbers hit the highest mark on the Bears’ internal scouting scale. My sense is the Bears have plans for him beyond that of a typical sixth-round flier and believe he was one of the more gifted defensive tackles in the draft.”

The Bears’ defensive tackle depth chart says that van den Berg will be in the mix as DT4 at the very least. Grady Jarrett, Gervon Dexter Sr., and free agent addition Neville Gallimore are the likely top 3 defensive tackles. But fellow free agent pickups James Lynch and Kentavius Street both signed for league-minimum money, and both offer some tackle/end versatility.

If van den Berg takes to NFL coaching quickly to hone his technique and can learn his responsibilities, his ceiling seems higher than that of a typical sixth-rounder.

After the year the Cowboys had – ranking dead last in scoring, EPA/play, and DVOA on defense – everyone was on the same page about what this offseason needed to be about. It didn’t take long for Brian Schottenheimer to move on from Matt Eberflus, but the head coach took his time finding a replacement. Eventually, he settled on budding star Christian Parker.

In previous seasons, that may have been it. Swap Eberflus for Parker and simply hope that a new voice can turn contaminated water into wine without spending more on the roster than already being done. But the way the Cowboys went about their offseason, which unofficially just wrapped up with a stellar 2026 NFL Draft, proves they understood the assignment.

Defensive line has fundamentally changed

For several decades now, the Cowboys have had the same approach on the defensive line regardless of scheme or coach. Rod Marinelli ushered in an era of seeking undersized, athletic linemen who could simply run around blockers, but even before then, Jay Ratliff was playing nose tackle while clocking in under 300 pounds. Even when they drafted the hulking Mazi Smith, he was immediately tasked with shedding weight to get under 300 pounds.

Things look fundamentally different now.

Quinnen Williams, Kenny Clark, and Otito Ogbonnia are all comfortably over 300 pounds, with the latter two being above 310 pounds. None of them are so large that they sacrifice any real movement ability, but all three have the heft and strength to hold up against the run. Those are crucial traits in the Vic Fangio-inspired scheme that Parker is bringing to Dallas.

Rashan Gary is also a very different type of EDGE than the Cowboys are used to. He’s nearly as heavy now as Osa Odighizuwa was when the Cowboys drafted him to play the 3-technique so many years ago, though Gary will rarely be lining up in the A-gap or B-gap for Dallas. His size and strength allows Parker to play him on all three downs, using Gary as an effective pass rusher who can just as easily set the edge against the run.

As for the more prototypical, pin-your-ears-back edge rushers, the Cowboys have three guys to work with. Donovan Ezeiruaku flashed potential as a rookie, finishing second among Dallas EDGEs in pressures, and is expected to make a second-year jump. Malachi Lawrence had the second-highest Relative Athletic Score of any EDGE in this year’s draft class and was ninth in his class in pass rush win rate. And James Houston finished second on the team in sacks this year despite being ninth in pass rush snaps.

Traditionally, the Cowboys’ small-and-athletic approach across the board to the defensive line has resulted in shaky run defense regardless of scheme while only sometimes producing top-level pass rush units. Parker’s scheme calls more for suffocating run defense that can also push the pocket and make quarterbacks uncomfortable.

Without a doubt, Dallas has now supplied Parker with the bodies to run that scheme up front.

Linebacker options on the cheap

Despite a flurry of moves in free agency, the Cowboys did not address the linebacker position, leaving it as the biggest need heading into draft weekend. Of course, the linebacker spot is also the least valuable position on defense, and Dallas seemed uninterested in overpaying there, especially with DeMarvion Overshown’s second contract looming.

After reports of the team’s interest in Texas Tech’s Jacob Rodriguez and Texas’ Anthony Hill, neither were ultimately targeted by the Cowboys. Their trade back from 20 to 23 gave Dallas enough ammunition to move up in the second round for either, but they stood pat. They also did not circle back to trade targets they’d previously been linked to, such as Jordyn Brooks or Patrick Queen.

Instead, they swapped a fifth-rounder for Dee Winters, who started every game this past year for a 49ers defense that exceeded expectations relative to their lengthy list of injuries. Winters, initially a backup, was a big part of that effort, and now he’s expected to slot in as a starter next to Overshown.

More than that, the Cowboys used their late third-round pick on Jaishawn Barham, who’s expected to play a hybrid linebacker role for them early on. Barham was primarily an edge rusher at Michigan this past year, but he’s also worked plenty in an off-ball linebacker role in the past.

The Cowboys openly compared Barham to both Arvell Reese – the hybrid linebacker who just “fell” to the fifth overall pick – and Zack Baun, who became one of the most disruptive linebackers in a similar role for the Eagles. Of course, Parker was front and center for Baun’s emergence, and now he thinks he has another one in Barham.

Add in the presence of second-year pro Shemar James, who finished second among Dallas linebackers in snaps played last year, and the Cowboys suddenly have options at the position. Sure, linebacker is still the biggest question mark on this roster, but that mostly speaks to the job this front office did in shoring up the rest of the defense.

Holes filled in the secondary

It would be an understatement to say that the Cowboys had holes in their secondary last year. At times, the holes were so large that JaMarcus Russell himself could’ve jumped in from his couch and completed passes against this pass defense.

Parker, a defensive backs coach by trade, naturally demanded changes there. And he got them.

In free agency, the Cowboys said goodbye to longtime starter and team captain Donovan Wilson. And while they held onto Malik Hooker, they also brought in safeties Jalen Thompson and P.J. Locke. Thompson came over from Arizona, where he played for new Cowboys cornerbacks coach Ryan Smith. Locke, meanwhile, came from Denver, where he once played for Parker.

The Cowboys also made moves at cornerback, signing Cobie Durant and Derion Kendrick. Durant has started 14+ games each of the last two years for the Rams, while Kendrick became a starter for that same Rams team back in 2023 before an ACL tear threw him off course.

The expectation is that both DaRon Bland and Shavon Revel will be starters for Dallas, though both have recent injury history that could complicate things. Adding Durant and Kendrick at very team-friendly deals provides known commodities in case either Bland or Revel are unable to start. The Cowboys also still have Reddy Steward, Trikweze Bridges, Caelen Carson, Josh Butler, and Zion Childress, all of whom have flashed promise at one point or another over the past couple years.

Of course, the draft also brought the biggest addition anywhere on defense: Caleb Downs.

The Ohio State star was considered by some draft analysts to be the best player in the entire class, let alone the best defensive back. And the Cowboys got him at 11th overall, only giving up two fifth-round picks to go up and get him.

Downs immediately slots in as the starting nickel for Parker, the most important position in this defense. In that role, Downs will consistently be around the ball both as a ballhawk and a thumper in the run game. Not only did Downs fill a crucial position in this new scheme, but his presence allows other Cowboys players to better define their own roles.

For example, Bland will no longer be the nickel corner. He’ll now go back to being a full-time outside corner, as he did during his record-breaking 2023 season. There’s no guarantee that Bland will immediately start racking up picks again, but the clarity on his position will surely help in both learning this new scheme and in recovering from yet another surgery.

Similarly, Thompson – who alternated between nickel and safety in Arizona – will settle into one of the two starting safety spots rather than being relied upon to fill multiple roles. He was at his best in Arizona when playing deep, so this helps him too. Then there can also be a competition between Hooker and Locke for the other safety spot, rather than needing both players to start if Thompson had to command starting reps in the slot.

All in all, the Cowboys came out of this offseason with significantly more answers than they had a few months ago. When he was hired, Parker knew exactly what he wanted his defense to look like. Now, after three months on the job, his defense certainly looks the way he envisioned it… at least on paper.

All that’s left to do now is see if Parker can actually make it all work on the field.

Clarity on Eligibility is Coming Soon

Two Elite Programs Agree to Keep Their Rivalry Alive

UCONN to the PAC 12? Does It Make Sense?

Keeping Track of PAC 12 Transfers

Our Friends at the Spokesman have you covered on all the latest transfer news.

Post-Spring Predictions for PAC 12 Football Programs

Are the Broncos the clear favorites?

Stay tuned, next week we have a lot of great material on the way

Happy Friday, everyone! The Tigers eked out a win against the best team in baseball yesterday afternoon. With Cleveland off on Thursday, this meant that the Tigers were able to get back to a .500 win percentage and also tie the Guardians for first in the AL Central. The team now heads home to hopefully have some better luck on their home turf (where they’ve been very good this season, going 10-2) and trying to get some of their good vibes back.

In our news rundown today we look at Kevin McGonigle’s impressive stats to start the season, and why Jason Benetti was the best fit for Sunday Night Baseball. We’ll also take a look at what might help the White Sox build a better stadium, and how Shohei Ohtani proved he isn’t completely perfect.

So let’s just jump right into it.

Detroit Tigers News

• Here’s a little more information on the move of Kyle Hendricks joining the Tigers’ front office.
• Why there was simply no other option for Sunday Night Baseball except for Jason Benetti.
• Some unfortunate injury updates.

• With his three walks on Wednesday, you can extend that on-base streak to 27 games. His hitting streak ended at 13, unfortunately.

AL Central News

• Potential ways to create a better ballpark for White Sox fans.

MLB News

• A deep dive look at a potential timeline and all the cities in the running for MLB expansion.
• A look behind the scenes of the sweeping managerial changes in Boston. ($)
• After a terrible 2025, the Atlanta Braves are back and better than ever.
• It was a two grand slam kind of day for the Orioles.
• Former high school mentor? Paul Skenes will still embarrass him at the plate.
• Nick Kurtz is joining some storied baseball company as his walk streak continues.
• How Ildemaro Vargas quietly became one of the hottest hitters in baseball.
• Guess Shohei Ohtani isn’t perfect after all.
• Comparing the AL to the NL right now shows two wildly different pictures.
• The best and worst of players who debuted with new teams this season. Lots of Mets in here….
• Alex Cora takes the high ground in post-firing email.
• Which MLB manager might be on the chopping block next? ($)
• Philadelphia sports fans aren’t exactly shy about sharing their opinions.

• This fun little bit of baseball trivia was good for a laugh, so sharing it here!

• For the share-sized bag of Nerds Gummy Clusters? Worthwhile trade!

• After a Cleveland man-child stole a ball from a literal child, it was a member of the Rays’ broadcast crew who made the effort to make it right. PSA: No one is forcing you to give a ball you catch fair and square to a kid, but don’t steal one.

Now that the 2026 NFL Draft is in the rearview mirror, it’s time to look ahead to the next big item of the NFL offseason—the 2026 schedule release. Back in the day, prior to social media being the force that it is now, the NFL’s schedule release format was fairly low key. There were no clever release videos that required a team’s production group to burn the midnight oil, and the NFL certainly didn’t market it the way that they do today.

However, just like they seemingly always do, the NFL saw an opportunity to captivate its audience and capitalized. In the days leading up to the actual schedule release, which is likely going to be sometime in the middle of May, various insiders slowly leak some of the more prominent nationally televised games like the season openers, and Christmas-day games. And to be honest, I could do without the leaking of games.

So with all of that said, what are you hoping to see on the Lions’ 2026 schedule?

My answer: It’s simple—no Christmas day game. Please. I could be a total curmudgeon and say less primetime games in general, but I won’t go that far since I know so much of the fanbase loves them.

Instead, let’s keep our holiday football watching exclusive to Thanksgiving this year. Let the players and coaches enjoy the other holidays with their families, and allow the fans to enjoy a stress free Christmas day.

What about you? What are you wanting to see in the Lions’ 2026 schedule? Let us know in the comments below.

While the offseason hasn’t lacked any excitement in New Orleans – with a tantalizing free agency period coupled with an exciting NFL Draft – my personal focus has admittedly remained on the NFL’s inaugural Paris game since it was announced in February.

As is the case for many of our readers, the game will be very special for me. But not only because the black and gold feature as the home team. It’s also the first Saints game on international soil since I moved home to Europe, and therefore my first opportunity to watch the team in person once again since giving up my close proximity to the Superdome.

With that in mind, I’m electing to get ahead of myself and start talking about this historic occasion at the Stade de France in October.

I wanted to get an expert’s view on all of this, and there’s simply none better than Jeff Duncan of NOLA.com. He gave me plenty of insight, which is packed into the words below.

The NFL continues to expand its global reach

It is incredible what the NFL has done, and continues to do, to expand its worldwide audience in such a short span since the inaugural International Series game only 19 years ago. Duncan explained to me how both the league and the Saints are well aware of this unending potential.

“This is part of a larger NFL initiative to grow the brand globally. Roger Goodell sees this as an untapped revenue stream, and I think he’s right. The interest level is growing by the year.”

The game has indeed exploded onto the scene, especially here in Europe. The Britain that I left when I moved to New Orleans is not the one that I’ve returned to.

Before, you’d struggle to find a place to watch Red Zone on a Sunday. Now, pubs and restaurants all over the country advertise it prominently. NFL jerseys are on every turn. And, as Duncan points out, it still feels like just the beginning.

“I think what we’re seeing now is the nascent stages of a global explosion in interest in the sport.”

As for these new fans, they do need to learn the game before they can truly enjoy it. At nine years old, I was lucky enough to be dropped into New Orleans while a prime Drew Brees was doing his thing week in week out. My education as a foreign fan was unique. But for fans that live abroad, exposure to the game is vital.

“It’s a complicated sport, it’s complex to learn. It can be intimidating,” he says. “The league wants to try to let fans get used to it and understand what is so attractive about American football; the chess match, the mental part of it, and then obviously the physicality, the great athleticism that you see every weekend. That combination is what has made this sport so dominant in America.”

And as for the black and gold, they want to go beyond just playing 60 minutes of football. “The Saints want to do more than just play games over there; they want it to be kind of a year-round thing. Perhaps in Monaco, they’ve talked about even holding a minicamp.”

“That’s the best way for them to grow the product in Europe, is to continue to go over there and not just play a game but to spend more time over there year-round to show the commitment.”

Speaking of the Saints on the international front, kicker Charlie Smyth broke into the team this year after being a part of the international pathway program. And his story is exemplary of the knock-on effect of growing the game abroad: not only do new fans find the NFL, but the NFL finds new players.

I asked Duncan how far he thinks this could all eventually go.

“I’ll tell you what’s going to, I think, be the detonation point, is once an international player becomes a starting quarterback in the NFL. If that happens, it’s going to blow up.”

“Eventually, there’s going to be NFL teams based in Europe. It’s just a matter of when.”

While that’s a prospect I still struggle to wrap my head around, there is certainly an aura of inevitability surrounding it.

To think that we as fans already complain about the travel involved in back-to-back road games on the East and West Coast. Imagine the Saints routinely playing in Los Angeles one week, and Munich the next!

Do local Saints fans get the short straw?

While the ever-increasing number of games on European soil is exciting for those of us over here, the favor is rather unlikely to ever be returned with our version of football.

If, for example, the English Premier League ever attempted to play the Manchester United vs Liverpool game happening this weekend in New York or Florida, it’s no exaggeration to say there’d be riots in the streets.

Moving competitive matches away from teams’ home stadiums is simply unthinkable to us. So why is it so normal to Americans, who just seem to be fine with losing out on home games so that we Brits get to see their team live in the flesh?

Duncan explains that there are a few factors involved.

“The league is weighted into this. For decades, they’ve been playing preseason games abroad. People are used to it; they’ve slowly been growing the international series year by year.”

But, as he also points out, the league has expanded the schedule and is likely going to do so again. So, even with a “home” game all the way in Paris, home fans aren’t truly missing out. I hadn’t actually considered this.

“The biggest aspect is, it’s going to be part of the expanded regular season schedule. So the NFL is able to frame this as, hey, we’re taking away a preseason game. You’re still getting the same amount of home games in your regular season as you would’ve had in the 16-game schedule,” he told me.

So, while it’s still evidence of a huge cultural difference across the Atlantic, this does help explain why Saints fans in the Crescent City seem largely on board.

Let us know in the comments, regardless of where you are in the world, about where you stand on this.

Finally: the event itself

“I know the Saints and Gayle Benson have been planning this for a while. It’s going to be an event; it’s not just going to be a football game on Sunday. There’s going to be a lot of stuff to do; it should be a lot of fun.”

In true New Orleans fashion, it sounds like it’s going to be a party atmosphere in Paris in the buildup to the game.

And there is indeed so much to be excited about. There’s as much enthusiasm going into the new season as there has been in a long time for the black and gold. These games offer a chance for an incredibly diverse crowd of travelling Americans, first-time fans, lifelong supporters at their first game, and everyone in between to enjoy the sport together.

It promises to be a unique and thrilling experience in the French capital, and who better than the New Orleans Saints to bring the NFL to Paris for the first time?

I certainly can’t wait.

Let us know your thoughts on anything to do with NFL Paris. Are you planning on making it out to the game? Comment below!

Victors in nine of their last 10 games, Aggie baseball welcomes No. 8 Auburn (30-13, 12-9 SEC) to Olsen Field at Blue Bell Park to open up the month of May. A showdown of epic proportions is on deck, with this top-10 battle sitting as the first of three ranked opponents #7 Texas A&M (34-8, 14-6) will face to close their conference slate.

Tuesday’s midweek matchup nearly had A&M looking ahead to the ranked Tigers, as they escaped an upset bid from the Tarleton State Texans (28-16, 8-4 WAC). A five-run fourth inning gave the visitors a 5-2 advantage before the Aggies tied things up. Tarleton went back in front in the sixth, but four unanswered runs from the Maroon and White proved to be enough, winning 9-7 in College Station. Caden Sorrell collected his fourth multi-homer game of the season, which moved him into a tie for fifth most homers in an Aggie career with 43 total. Other highlights from the weekday contest included Bear Harrison’s third straight game with a homer, three game-changing RBI from freshman Nico Partida and Clayton Freshcorn’s 10^th save of the year, his third consecutive appearance closing the curtains on a ballgame.

As for this weekend, meaningful baseball will be played at the corner of Bush and Olsen. Auburn enters the Lone Star State having won five of their last six and secured four straight SEC series victories (vs. Arkansas and Kentucky, at Florida, vs. Oklahoma). The Tigers notably won all three games they played at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, in February, gaining national attention for wins over top-15 Florida State and Louisville. A home non-conference series win over Nebraska has boosted their resume, as the Cornhuskers looked primed to be a regional host. Notably, Auburn also holds a midweek victory over #3 Georgia Tech.

Common opponents between the squads include Missouri, Texas, Florida, Oklahoma, Mississippi State and Georgia. The Tigers are 8-4 against these teams, while A&M is 9-5. Both teams have series wins over Missouri and Florida in the same fashion (road sweep & final two games on road, respectively).

The A&M offense keeps rolling right along but will have its hands full at home. Auburn is bringing the best pitching staff in the conference (3.29 overall team ERA, 3.45 ERA in conference) to the Brazos Valley and has given up the second fewest homers in SEC play (19). That staff will have a tall task keeping one of the best offenses in the nation silent. With the highest OBP (.407), SLG (.537), OPS (.944), home runs (43), runs scored (175), walks (130) and RBI (163) against conference competition, the Maroon and White bats are not to be taken lightly. Gavin Grahovac continues to pummel SEC pitchers, holding a .381 batting average and a .786 SLG in 20 conference contests; the latter leads the conference. This doesn’t even include the impact of the freshman in the lineup. Partida, Boston Kellner and Jorian Wilson are swinging well above their weight as first-year players in conference play.

Combine the offensive numbers with a fielding percentage of .981, second best in the SEC, and all of a sudden, the picture becomes clearer as to why A&M is playing at a high level right now. The entire engine is firing on all cylinders; even the pitching puzzle is coming together. Gavin Lyons and Freshcorn continue to reliably hold down the back end of the ‘pen, with Freshcorn ranking 12^th across all SEC arms with a 3.10 ERA. Lyons has the most wins in the conference (6), while Freshcorn’s five saves are tied for the lead.

Texas A&M has won five straight games against the Tigers, dating back to the series finale on the Plains in 2023. A&M swept Auburn at home in 2024 and took the only meeting last season by a 3-2 score in the second round of the 2025 SEC Baseball Tournament in Hoover, Ala.

With #8 Auburn this weekend, #17 Ole Miss on the road next weekend and #10 Mississippi State to close out the SEC gauntlet, it is imperative for the Aggies to stay above .500 in their final nine games to stay in the hunt for the conference crown. Protecting home field and winning the series against the Tigers is objective one and should all but secure hosting a regional come June.

Weather permitting, Friday’s series opener will have the eyes of the country, with first pitch scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on the SEC Network. The final two games from Olsen Field at Blue Bell Park can be seen on SEC Network+, both with afternoon start times (and could change due to Mother Nature).

Probable Starters:

• Friday: LHP Shane Sdao (3-3, 5.72 ERA) vs. RHP Andreas Alvarez (7-2, 2.22 ERA)
• Saturday: RHP Aiden Sims (8-0, 3.45 ERA) vs. LHP Jake Marciano (3-3, 2.04 ERA)
• Sunday: TBA vs. RHP Alex Petrovic (7-1, 2.83 ERA)

Game Info (weather permitting):

• Friday: 7:00 p.m. on SEC Network
• Saturday: 2:00 p.m. on SEC Network+
• Sunday: 1:00 p.m. on SEC Network+

Andriy Lunin has been a handy backup to Thibaut Courtois for Real Madrid’s management in recent years, especially given how the Belgian is occasionally ruled out with fitness blows.

Just when it seemed set that he would leave the club in 2023, he stepped up under pressure and stuck by his contract to even earn a renewal until 2030.

As the summer transfer window nears, there is again doubt growing on what the club should do in his case and the administration find themselves in a dilemma.

Stuck on crossroads

As reported by AS in a recent report, Lunin’s performances this season since Courtois’ injury are once again paving the way for doubts to creep in about his future.

In his 11 games this season, the Ukrainian international has conceded 21 goals and averages a goal conceded every 45 minutes.

While a big part of that can be attributed to the team’s defensive struggles, Courtois averages one goal conceded in every 93 minutes and is significantly ahead in that statistic, raising doubts about whether Lunin’s numbers are good enough.

Will Lunin stay or leave? (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

As the summer window approaches, there is doubt about how Lunin will approach the opportunity to leave.

In recent times, the player has never been one to have any issue being in Courtois’ shadow as he knows full well that he will have his opportunities as the campaign progresses.

Real Madrid, for their part, love that approach as it gives them a high-quality replacement with minimal internal politics.

His numbers, however, generate some doubt, especially with the club now seriously valuing the option of Javi Navarro.

The academy goalkeeper is moving up the ranks rapidly and is expected to get into the Castilla dynamics next season, which would make him a possible backup option to Courtois if needed.

April was the first full month of the offseason for college wrestling. Transfer season came and went – Tiger Style making one big splash – among other events to kick off the retooling period.

As multiple Tigers currently on the roster are competing in offseason tournaments, head coach Brian Smith and his staff are working to improve upon their 14th-place finish at nationals this past season. A big portion of April was spent looking out for the future of the program.

2026 Recruiting

Tiger Style saw two wrestlers leave, and two enter through the transfer portal, while also picking up a seventh 2026 high school recruit, leaving the roster at the 30-wrestler max heading into next season. The highlight pickup was bringing Zan Fugitt back home. He was an All-American at Wisconsin and is expected to fill the starting role at 141lbs.

The void at that position was left by former starter Zeke Seltzer entering the portal. He committed to Central Michigan, where he should start at 141lbs or 149lbs. Mizzou’s other outgoing transfer was Jace Roller (141lbs), who saw limited action last season. He is yet to find a new destination.

Another position of need for the Tigers was an experienced wrestler at 197lbs. Evan Bates was a solid rental, but with him exhausting eligibility, that leaves Logan Cole as the likely starter next season. While he should still have a shot to start, Smith grabbed a two-time NCAA qualifier from Ohio State in Luke Geog. He made the bloodround at nationals last season and will have two seasons of eligibility remaining.

In a late addition to the incoming freshman class, Demetrios Carrera (141lbs) committed April 7. He hails from Illinois and is ranked No. 192 on Mat Scout’s 2026 big board.

2027 Recruiting

It’s not too early to start working on the 2027 class with the 2026 crop now likely set in stone. Mizzou grabbed two early commitments this past month. Getting these recruits now offers a chance for the coaching staff to start their development way before they join the program.

The first commit of the 2027 class was Cason Craft (125lbs). He’s from Coweta, Oklahoma, and was originally committed to California Baptist before its program was cut. Craft is ranked No. 122 on Mat Scout’s 2027 big board.

Everett Joyce (184lbs) became the second commit of the class. He’s from Maize, Kansas, is a two-time state champ and three-time state finalist. Joyce is currently ranked No. 25 at 190lbs by Mat Scout.

Big 12 Shakeup

Realignment struck the Big 12 in early April when four teams relocated to the Pac-12. Air Force, Northern Colorado, North Dakota State and South Dakota State are leaving, effective immediately, for the 2026-27 season as affiliate members.

Both the Big 12 and the Pac-12 will have nine members apiece next season. This move was more beneficial for the Pac-12, but it’s not necessarily the hugest loss for the Big 12. South Dakota State was the only competitive program within the conference of the four that are now leaving. The move secured the Pac-12 with the minimum number of teams needed to maintain an automatic qualifier to the NCAA Championships.

Big 12 Teams Now

Full-time members:
Arizona State
Iowa State
Oklahoma State
West Virginia

Affiliate members:
Missouri
Northern Iowa
Oklahoma
Utah Valley
Wyoming

For Mizzou’s perspective, this will mean there are fewer cupcake duals in conference play. Of the nine remaining programs in the Big 12, seven finished in the top 25 of the final coaches’ poll last season.

There’s plenty of returning talent after a strong team finish this past season, and the wrestlers that Smith has in the building for next season will only bolster the ranks. It’s going to be an absolute dogfight to see mat time, but even the wrestlers who don’t see much action could blossom into future contributors in Tiger Style’s elite development program.

The Madrid Open men’s semifinals bring together two established favorites and two breakthrough challengers, with Jannik Sinner facing Arthur Fils and Alexander Blockx trying to continue his stunning run against Alexander Zverev.

MORE: Aryna Sabalenka has a two-word response to Hailey Baptiste loss

How to Watch Mutua Madrid Open Men’s Semifinals

• Date: Friday, May 1, 2026
• Time: 10:00 AM ET (Sinner vs Fils); 2:00 PM ET (Blockx vs Zverev)
• TV Channel: Tennis Channel
• Live Stream: Fubo (try for free)

Sinner enters the semifinal as the world No. 1 and top seed after beating Spanish wildcard Rafael Jodar 6-2, 7-6(0), a win that made him the sixth player to reach the semifinals at all nine ATP Masters 1000 events. Fils, meanwhile, is one of the hottest players on clay, beating Jiri Lehecka 6-3, 6-4 to extend his clay winning streak to nine matches and become the first Frenchman to reach the Madrid semifinals since the tournament moved to clay in 2009.

Sinner leads their head-to-head 1-0, but both players are unbeaten on clay this season, making this a high-level form-vs-form matchup.

– Watch Mutua Madrid Open Semifinals on Fubo –

The other semifinal has a clear underdog storyline, as Blockx has turned a late main-draw opportunity into the biggest run of his career. The 21-year-old Belgian knocked off defending champion Casper Ruud 6-4, 6-4 after also beating seeded players Brandon Nakashima, Felix Auger-Aliassime, and Francisco Cerundolo. Zverev brings the experience edge as the No. 2 seed and a two-time Madrid champion, and he looked sharp in a 6-1, 6-4 win over Flavio Cobolli with 12 aces and 23 winners.

Blockx and Zverev are meeting for the first time, with Zverev chasing another Madrid final and Blockx trying to complete one of the tournament’s biggest surprises.

Live stream Mutua Madrid Open Men’s Semifinals with Fubo: Start your free trial now!

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A few years ago, The Athletic ran a story asking whether the ’23 Orioles were lucky or good. The piece was an annoying attempt to gainsay the team’s 101-win season based on BABIP and expected ERA, things like that. Well, we certainly showed them. The ’23 Orioles got bounced from the playoffs immediately, and since then, this team hasn’t been lucky at all. In 2025, Baltimore had one of the worst starts in the game, finishing May with 11 players on the injured list and a 21-34 record that wrecked the whole season.

This year, the Orioles have a similarly long list of casualties, albeit a record that’s average as opposed to bad (14-15, seventh in the AL). They rank 16th in MLB in pitching WAR, fourteenth in hitting. They’re also middle-of-the-pack in striking out or walking people, and producing an average number of home runs and runs.

Is 2026 a similar story of the injury bug? There are eleven players on the IL, many important. One is starter Zach Eflin, finally free of a back injury, who exited his season debut on March 31 with right elbow discomfort and, after imaging and a second opinion, underwent Tommy John surgery, not to return until sometime in 2027. Trevor Rogers has a weird flu and was ineffective before that. Jordan Westburg, meanwhile, is on the 60-day IL with a partial right UCL tear and is not eligible to return before May 24. Jackson Holliday is working through a lengthy recovery from a broken hamate bone. Ryan Mountcastle has a fractured foot. The bullpen hasn’t been spared either: Keegan Akin (strained left groin) and Andrew Kittredge (right shoulder inflammation) both missed time, and closer Félix Bautista, who missed most of last year with shoulder surgery, remains on the 60-day IL and is not expected back until September at the earliest.

Is the Orioles continued lingering around the .500 mark attributable to this slew of injuries? I thought I’d look into the question, just for fun.

Here are some salient team numbers, starting with offense. Through the end of April the Orioles sit at 14-15, having scored 130 runs while allowing 143. That’s not a terrible Pythagorean score. The offense ranks sixth in hard-hit rate at 37.3%, 10th in xwOBA at .323, and 13th in wRC+ at 101. On the whole, these numbers suggest the contact quality is reasonably good and the results have lagged behind the process.

Some replacements are working out better than others. Jeremiah Jackson is more than holding his own at the plate as the Orioles’ everyday second baseman. Coby Mayo, however, has a -0.4 WAR while manning third. Pete Alonso, meanwhile, is still in an offensive freeze (a .198 BA), although his defense has been surprisingly good (helping to explain a 0.4 WAR). The loss of Holiday, Westburg, and Ryan Mountcastle has been mostly compensated for, in other words, but Westburg’s absence is glaring. Especially as the O’s are 0-6 against lefty starters with a puny .189 average.

On the pitching side, the five starters who have thrown the most innings for the Orioles this year all have ERAs over 4.00, which makes the rotation a glaring weakness. It’s hard to assess how much health is playing a role: from an eyeball point of view, Bradish looks like he’s still recovering from elbow surgery, Rogers has been spotty, and Eflin is sorely missed. (Interestingly, of all the names the Orioles were linked to in the “top-flight ace” conversation over the offseason—Framber Valdez, Dylan Cease, Ranger Suárez, Freddy Peralta, Nick Pivetta—only Cease has an ERA below 3.)

Defense, on the other hand, has been a true low point. FanGraphs ranks the Orioles the fourth-worst fielding team. There’s little mystery about where the blame falls: the same site rates Taylor Ward, Dylan Beavers and Tyler O’Neill as the team’s worst fielders. That’s funny considering the infield could be a real culprit, given that Coby Mayo is playing out of position, and Jeremiah Jackson is a replacement. Blaze Alexander is currently playing a good infield, but he’s not an outfielder. So yeah, that outfield.

So, how much upside is sitting on the injured list, ready to return?

My gut tells me that Jordan Westburg is the biggest factor. A healthy Westburg returning in late May adds what was, in 2024, a 3+ WAR infielder to a team that has been getting a 72 wRC+ from the third base position, 24th in MLB. That upgrade alone could be worth several wins over the course of the season—if Westburg returns healthy. Holliday, a former top prospect who started to hit last year, restores a legitimate lineup threat, but it’s not clear he will immediately outhit Jeremiah Jackson, despite his considerable upside.

As for the rotation, a healthy Rogers stabilizing the rotation would make a meaningful difference, while Dean Kremer provides a floor that hopefully would avoid outcomes like Brandon Young’s four-inning, ten-run stinker in yesterday’s doubleheader. The bullpen continues to shuffle around, but the core pieces—Rico Garcia, Anthony Nunez, Yennier Cano, Ryan Helsley, are already getting it done.

The defense has stunk, frankly, and most of that has little to do with Westburg or Holliday being on the IL. Their return wouldn’t give us, after all, a real outfield. That is an issue that falls at the feet of Dylan Beavers, Taylor Ward, Tyler O’Neill, and of course, the front office.

The cumulative effect of getting these players back is real, but perhaps not definitive. A near-.500 team with the Orioles’ profile—pretty good on offense, inconsistent in pitching, and poor on defense—needs more of a return-to-form from healthy players than an influx from the injured list. That could be good news or bad, but it gives us an idea of where to look.

Gabby Agbonlahor has expressed concern that Arsenal may be suffering from fatigue after a demanding season, suggesting that the number of matches played could be taking a physical toll on the squad, with several players appearing tired in recent fixtures.

Arsenal secured a narrow victory over Newcastle United in their previous league match, winning by a single early goal. They have since followed that result with a draw against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, a match in which neither side managed to score from open play. Arsenal struggled to impose themselves throughout the game and ultimately had to settle for a draw in a difficult away fixture.

Concerns over Arsenal’s physical condition

Looking ahead, the Gunners will aim to take advantage in the return fixture at home, but Agbonlahor believes there are visible signs of fatigue within the squad. He has pointed to recent performances as evidence that Arsenal’s key players are not operating at their usual intensity.

Speaking on Talk Sport, he said, “What stood out for me last night, and it stood out to me against Newcastle: players looking tired. They’re looking really tired. And I hope this doesn’t affect Arsenal. They’ve got a chance of winning two trophies. Could the tiredness in the squad affect them? They’ve played 57 games this season, Arsenal. Fulham, who they play on the weekend, have only played 41.”

Managing fatigue in a demanding season

It is widely recognised that this period of the campaign can place significant strain on players, especially for teams competing deep into multiple competitions. Arsenal’s extended involvement in both domestic and European competitions has naturally increased their fixture load.

As a result, signs of tiredness are not unexpected, and careful squad rotation may be required to maintain performance levels. With important matches still ahead, managing fitness and recovery could prove crucial to sustaining their challenge across all fronts.

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Gerry McNamara beat UAlbany last year to win the Albany Cup and now he wants to take on the Great Danes for a Governor’s Cup (hint hint NY State Legislature members). According to CBS Sports’ Jon Rothstein, the Orange will host UAlbany in the JMA Wireless Dome next season.

Syracuse is 9-0 all-time against UAlbany, the last meeting was a 102-85 Orange victory back in 2024. The Orange were led that night led by Donnie Freeman’s 24 points.

In addition to this game, we have reports that Syracuse will face Providence, and Indiana next season. It seems know that the Orange’s schedule is too full to play St. Bonaventure, but it sounds like that rivalry could be making a return in the near future.

We also have to keep an eye out for a potential Syracuse vs Siena exhibition game for next fall.

One week after the 2026 NFL Draft, The Real Forno Show breaks down Minnesota Vikings overreactions and why Jake Golday is the perfect Brian Flores linebacker. Tyler Forness and Dave Stefano deliver sharp film analysis on the Vikings’ draft class, Caleb Banks reach, Blake Brandel at center, no WR selected, and Jauan Jennings timing in this must-listen Vikings 1st & SKOL production.

In this episode of The Real Forno Show, Tyler Forness and producer Dave tackle the biggest post-draft narratives surrounding the Minnesota Vikings one week later. They address fan overreactions with fresh context on scheme fits under head coach Kevin O’Connell and defensive coordinator Brian Flores. Forness explains the Vikings’ belief in internal solutions while spotlighting Jake Golday as a high-upside chess piece.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

• Blake Brandel at center: The Vikings skipped high picks at the position, reaffirming their trust in the veteran. “Not adding one just reaffirms the belief that they have in Blake Brandel,” Forness notes, calling it a low-risk bridge with upside under new offensive line coaching.

• No wide receiver drafted: The decision wasn’t tied to Jauan Jennings (whose visit came after the draft). Forness clarifies, “I find it interesting that they didn’t take one period… the board just falls the way it falls, and you have to adapt to it.”

• Caleb Banks reach discussion: Early criticism is tempered as more medical and trait details emerge.

• Jake Golday’s Flores fit: The star of the show. Forness calls him “the perfect idealized version of what Brian Flores wants those second level defenders to be. Versatile, ability to do everything.” Dave Stefano adds, “He’s the ultimate tweener… He’s gonna be able to implement game plans to maximize that if he’s on the field.” Forness projects Golday as a 2027 starter and Blake Cashman replacement: “This is a long-term play… slam dunk pick of the Vikings.” He highlights Golday’s slot/box/edge versatility, elite run defense (PFF 90.6), and linear blitzing ability while noting he needs time developing instincts off-ball.

Listen:

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Vikings fans searching for honest 2026 NFL Draft reaction, Jake Golday film breakdown, and Brian Flores scheme analysis won’t want to miss this episode. Subscribe to The Real Forno Show — your go-to Minnesota Vikings podcast from Vikings 1st & SKOL and Fans First Sports Network — for weekly film study, draft scouting, and unfiltered takes that cut through the noise.

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Question of the Day:

What’s your biggest takeaway on Jake Golday’s rookie timeline and Flores fit — future star or developmental project?

Softball Cinematic Recap vs Ohio State

Evaluating the postseason implications of this weekend’s trip to UCLA for Oregon softball

Oregon among five finalists for 2027 4-star TE Anthony Cartwright III

Ranking Oregon’s position groups following the spring game

Highlight of the Day:Oregon Picks up first B1G Home Victory

Jayson Tatum Reveals Massive Injury Update Ahead Of Looming Game 7 Vs. 76ers originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

It seems impossible to believe after taking a 3-1 series lead, but the Boston Celtics will host the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 7 at TD Garden on Saturday.

The Celtics have squandered all of their momentum after back-to-back losses. They also suffered a scary momentum in Game 6 on Thursday when Jayson Tatum exited the game in the third quarter with an apparent leg injury.

He did not return to the game, fueling speculation that he had sustained a calf strain or another serious injury and seemingly putting his status for Game 7 in doubt.

Fortunately, Tatum shared a highly encouraging injury update during his postgame press conference.

Jayson Tatum said he expects to play in Game 7. Said it was his other leg, not the one he injured last year.

"I wasn't overly concerned." https://t.co/HXmAqdfM3T

— Noa Dalzell 🏀 (@NoaDalzell) May 1, 2026

While many Boston fans feared it was the same leg Tatum injured his Achilles on last year, he said it wasn't. He said his leg "just was a little stiff" and that he expects to play in Game 7.

"I wasn't overly concerned," he added.

That's great news for Celtics fans, who can breathe a huge sigh of relief. Tatum was their best player in Game 6, notching 17 points and 11 rebounds before departing. Having him available and healthy for Game 7 will be crucial for Boston if it wants to advance.

Tatum will try to pick up where he left off and help the Celtics avoid another devastating playoff collapse, but he's going to need more help from his teammates than he got on Thursday.

More NBA: Celtics Shockingly On Verge Of Another Epic Postseason Collapse

This Saturday, May 2, David Benavidez and Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez will face off in a unification bout with Ramirez’s WBA and WBO cruiserweight titles on the line. The fight will take place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas this Saturday night, and it’s set to begin at 8 p.m. ET.

You can tune into Benavidez vs. Ramirez at home on DAZN PPV. The fight will cost $79.99, but you can also save a few bucks by signing up for DAZN’s new PPV subscription plan, or by bundling it with another upcoming bout. Here’s everything you need to know to watch the fight this weekend, including the schedule, fight card, prices and more.

How to watch the Benavidez vs. Ramirez fight

Date: Saturday, May 2

Start time: Coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

Location: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, NV

TV channel/streaming: DAZN PPV

When is the Benavidez vs. Ramirez fight?

David Benavidez and Zurdo Ramirez will meet in the ring on Saturday, May 2. The event will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

What channel is the Benavidez vs. Ramirez fight on?

The Benavidez vs. Ramirez fight, including the complete fight card, will be available on DAZN PPV for $79.99. To watch, you'll need to buy the fight on DAZN. You can also save a few bucks by bundling this weekend’s fight with Fabio Wardley-Daniel Dubois (May 9) or Oleksandr Usyk-Rico Verhoeven (May 23)  or Zayas-Boots  (June 27) for a discounted price of of  $125.99  for both ($138.99 for Zayas-Boots). 

If you plan to watch more high profile bouts throughout the year, DAZN has also introduced a new PPV tier called DAZN Ultimate; for $49.99/month, you can get access to at least 12 PPV fights a year including Benavidez vs. Ramirez, plus over 185 other fights that comes with a regular subscription. It’s definitely a deal if you plan to watch a lot of PPV fights, since many are well over $50.

Where to watch Benavidez vs. Ramirez:

David Benavidez vs. Zurdo Ramirez fight card

• David Benavidez vs. Gilberto 'Zurdo' Ramirez; Cruiserweight, for the WBA and WBO titles

• Jose Resendiz vs. Jaime Munguia; Super-middleweight, for the WBA title

• Oscar Duarte vs. Angel Barrera; Super-lightweight

• Isaac Lucero vs. Alan Gutierrez; Super-welterweight

• Jorge Chavez vs. Tito Sanchez; Super-bantamweight

Fans of the Kentucky Wildcats have not been happy with the offseason so far. Though coach Mark Pope has added some talented players, like Zoom Diallo and Alex Wilkins, the lack of a player with star power is worrisome for Big Blue Nation. A big name with dominant scoring experience would be terrific, but they might already have a star on the roster in Braydon Hawthorne.

Hawthorne was a late addition in the 2025 recruiting class after decommitting from West Virginia. He was a four-star recruit, and ranked in the top 40 overall by 247Sports. Several schools, including the Duke Blue Devils, tried to add him, but he headed to Lexington.

Pope elected to redshirt Hawthorne last season rather than use a year of his eligibility up buried behind the depth they appeared to have. However, fans heard Pope sing his praises at times, calling him incredibly talented, and touting his ability to help them down the road. Now "down the road" is here.

At 6'8" with a 7'3" wingspan, and 190 lbs, Hawthorne has terrific length, and plenty of athleticism to go with it. He has position versatility, and scouts think he has NBA ability. He can score inside and out, and some added muscle will make him more effective in the paint.

The question with Hawthorne is how quickly he hits his potential. His upside is limitless, but as a late bloomer, is he ready to hit it this year? Kentucky needs him to. Fans need him to. He certainly wants to, If he does, the Wildcats will have found their superstar, and he was on the roster all along.

This article originally appeared on UK Wildcats Wire: Kentucky basketball may have star player in Braydon Hawthorne

Frank Lampard said the reality of Coventry City's title-winning promotion back to the Premier League has now sunk in.

The Sky Blues sealed their return to the top flight for the first time in 25 years with a draw at Blackburn on 17 April before clinching the Championship title at home with a 5-1 thumping of Portsmouth four days later.

Sunday's victory over Wrexham at the CBS Arena was a chance for the Sky Blues' fans to enjoy their celebrations at home and Lampard said that what they achieved had finally hit them.

"We're fortunate that we've had a few occasions to celebrate it now, away from home, at home twice. But it really sunk in at the weekend," he told BBC CWR.

"It was a fantastic opportunity for the fans to just purely enjoy it and I think they enjoyed the performance.

"But the realisation kicks in, it's quite surreal when you do something like this. I think with the situation of our club and the history, and even what we thought we might have at the start of the season to what the boys have absolutely produced is quite surreal, but now it's a reality."

Coventry go to Watford aiming to round off their campaign with a 28th win and their 11th in their past 15 games.

One more clean sheet would also guarantee on-loan goalkeeper Carl Rushworth the Golden Glove award - an accolade he is already sure of sharing, at least, with Ipswich Town's Christian Walton, who is one behind on 15.

"He's been an outstanding player for us," Lampard said. "He's brought consistency, calmness, level of quality, a professional training ethic.

"I know he's been on loan to different clubs, but the feeling of a Premier League player, how they train, how they act - he's brought a really professional nature to the club and he's been big for us.

"So I hope he gets that clean sheet award, whether he shares it or whether he wins it. I want him to win it because he's our player and he deserves it."

• Latest Coventry City news, analysis and fan views
• Listen to Coventry City content on BBC Sounds

We don't know whether this is the worst or the best collab of the century.

Sometimes, football gives us moments we'll remember forever. And clearly, we'll remember the day Konami decided to introduce this sport’s biggest stars to the art of cosplay.

As part of a collaboration with Naruto for a special in-game event, eFootball decided to fully commit by inviting its ambassadors to dress up as Naruto characters.

Neymar, Robert Lewandowski, Luka Modric, Rafael Leao, Martin Odegaard... all the biggest names took part in an absolutely WTF trailer.

Neymar even gets a celebration inside the game as a tribute to the character Naruto.

We don't know about you, but at OneFootball, we're definitely going to have nightmares about Modric and Lewandowski's cosplays.

Let us know what you think in the comments!

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.

The name of José Mourinho is once again hovering around the Real Madrid universe, but the Portuguese coach has decided to put an immediate stop to the speculation.

At the press conference ahead of Benfica’s match this weekend, the Setúbal-born manager denied any contact with the club’s board regarding next season.

"Nobody from Real Madrid has spoken to me. I can guarantee that," the Portuguese coach said bluntly in response to persistent questions from the media.

With these words, Mourinho is seeking to calm things down at a time when rumors about the Bernabéu dugout usually intensify as the football season draws to a close.

The manager pointed to his vast experience to downplay the media noise. He recalled that, after so many years at the top level of football, he knows perfectly well how the press and transfer rumors work. "We’re used to these things," he concluded, putting the matter to rest.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

In-form Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is expected to put up another show at the Sawaiman Singh Stadium in Jaipur on Saturday during Rajasthan Royals' clash against Delhi Capitals.

The boy wonder is in majestic form in the ongoing season, having already scored 400 runs in the seven innings he has played. 

Against LSG, Sooryavanshi started his innings with back-to-back boundaries but could not convert the start to a big innings as he departed for just 8 runs in 11 balls.

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However, in the last match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, he played a magnificent knock of 103 runs in just 37 balls as he completed his second IPL century.

MORE: Visit Cricket News for all the latest cricket coverage and opinion

How many runs did Vaibhav Sooryavanshi score in today's RR vs DC IPL 2026 match?

Sooryavanshi is expected to open the innings against Delhi Capitals on Friday evening.  

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's record in IPL

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Italian reports claim that Manchester City defender Nathan Aké has been offered to Inter, where he would reunite with Manuel Akanji.

The Nerazzurri are trying to revamp their defence for next season, as Francesco Acerbi, Matteo Darmian and Stefan de Vrij are expected to move on, with Alessandro Bastoni and Carlos Augusto also said to be considering their future.

With that in mind, FCInterNews suggest that Aké was proposed to Inter by some transfer intermediaries, who are working with the centre-back’s agents.

Ake new name on Inter radar

LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 22: Nathan Ake of Manchester City celebrates with the Carabao Cup trophy after the team’s victory in the Carabao Cup Final match between Arsenal and Manchester City at Wembley Stadium on March 22, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

His contract with Manchester City only runs to June 2027, so it would make sense for the Premier League club to make a sale this summer and avoid losing him on a free transfer.

The Netherlands international is already 31 years of age, and has been linked with Bayer Leverkusen and Besiktas in recent months, but would bring valuable experience to the Inter defence.

EINDHOVEN, NETHERLANDS – MARCH 31: Nathan Ake of Netherlands stands for the national anthem prior to the international friendly match between Netherlands and Ecuador at Philips Stadion on March 31, 2026 in Eindhoven, Netherlands. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

Manchester City paid €45m to sign Aké from Bournemouth in 2020 and his previous clubs include Chelsea, Watford, Reading and the Feyenoord youth academy.

There had been similar concerns over Akanji leaving Manchester City for Inter last summer, but on the verge of his 31^st birthday, the Switzerland international has been a strong performer.

He arrived on loan with an option to buy for €15m that will become mandatory if Inter win the Scudetto, which they could do this weekend.

Liverpool Register Interest in Francisco Trincao as Salah Succession Planning Intensifies

Liverpool’s summer planning appears to be moving with intent, and Francisco Trincao has now emerged as a name of genuine interest. According to Anfield Index, “Liverpool have made serious enquiries over a move for Sporting CP attacking midfielder Francisco Trincao,” with the 26-year-old enjoying a highly productive campaign in Portugal.

This is not a speculative name without context. Trincao has “registered 30 direct goal involvements across all competitions so far this season,” form that naturally places him within recruitment conversations at elite clubs. For Liverpool, the attraction is clear, technical quality, left-footed balance, and the capacity to operate from the right before moving into central areas.

Salah exit forces Liverpool into action

The wider backdrop matters. Anfield Index report that “Mohamed Salah confirming his plans to leave Liverpool at the end of the season” could make Trincao “an option to replace the Egyptian King.”

That sentence carries enormous weight. Salah’s departure would not be a normal transfer event. It would mark the end of one of Liverpool’s greatest modern eras, and replacing his output, presence and durability will require more than one signing.

Trincao would not arrive as a like-for-like replica. He is more creator than relentless scorer, more rhythm player than penalty-box machine. Yet his profile offers something Liverpool may value under Arne Slot, namely flexibility across the attacking line and comfort receiving between defenders.

Photo IMAGO

Release clause creates transfer clarity

After recently signing a new deal at Sporting CP, Trincao still has “a €60m release clause” active. In the modern market, that figure could be seen as significant but not excessive, especially when compared with the fees attached to other attacking targets.

Liverpool’s recruitment department, led by sporting director Richard Hughes, will know that value matters after last summer’s £450m outlay. The Reds won the Premier League in Slot’s debut season, but now sit 4th and are out of every competition. That makes this next window crucial.

Diomande and Barcola remain in frame

Anfield Index also note that “RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande has been strongly linked, whilst PSG’s Bradley Barcola has also been mentioned.” That suggests Trincao is part of a wider shortlist rather than necessarily the leading candidate.

Still, the report adds that Hughes “is thought to be a huge fan of the Sporting CP attacker,” which is not insignificant. Liverpool have often moved decisively when internal admiration aligns with market opportunity. Trincao may not be the headline name supporters expected, but this is precisely the type of deal that can gather pace once groundwork is in place.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this is exactly the kind of story that sparks debate. Francisco Trincao is talented, experienced, left-footed and productive, but the question is whether he is transformative enough for the post-Salah era.

If Salah leaves, Liverpool cannot afford sentimental thinking or half measures. This team has already spent heavily, yet the attack still lacks reliable fluency and ruthlessness. Sitting 4th after winning the title last season is not a disaster in isolation, but being out of every competition sharpens the focus on every recruitment call.

Trincao’s 30 goal involvements are impressive, and at €60m he may represent better value than some flashier names. Still, fans will rightly ask whether output in Portugal translates to the Premier League, particularly after his mixed spell at Wolves. The Vitinha comparison in the original report is fair, because players do develop after difficult early experiences in England.

What Liverpool need most is clarity. Is Trincao viewed as Salah’s direct successor, a squad option, or one part of a wider attacking rebuild? If it is the latter, this makes sense. If he is expected to carry the crown alone, supporters may need more convincing.

Osasuna manager Alessio Lisci has shared his thoughts ahead of a tough La Liga clash against Barcelona, offering insight into how his team plans to deal with one of the most difficult systems in Spanish football.

Lisci first focused on Barcelona’s defensive structure, especially their high line and offside trap, which has troubled many teams this season. 

He explained how difficult it is to prepare for such a style in a short time and what his team must do differently.

“It’s about being able to neutralise their offside trap. It’s very difficult because you don’t have time to prepare for the match. 

“That’s why many teams struggle to do it, as the players have their set patterns and the things they’ve been working on all year. 

“Suddenly, a team comes along that plays in a completely different way and defends in a completely different way, and it’s not easy for the team to automate certain movements in such a short space of time. 

“We’ve worked on it. In the first leg, we didn’t attack much, but when we did attack, we managed to catch them out. 

Alessio Lisci is confident of Osasuna’s chances vs Barcelona. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)

“Let’s see if tomorrow we can maintain more continuity and cause them more damage.”

The El Clasico distraction

The Osasuna coach also addressed whether Barcelona might be distracted by the upcoming El Clasico against Real Madrid, where they can be crowned as La Liga champions. 

Lisci made it clear that he does not expect any drop in focus from a team of Barcelona’s level.

“I don’t think they will be distracted. Besides, they had a tough time here last year. I think they’ll want to put in a great performance. 

“I can’t imagine players of that calibre thinking about the next match. I think they’ll come out all guns blazing tomorrow and will want to win.”

Lastly, despite the challenge ahead, Lisci maintained a positive outlook when asked about his team’s chances. 

“Yes, always. Whichever team comes, I’m optimistic,” he concluded.

Source: AS

The Minnesota Vikings entered the 2012 NFL Draft with the third overall pick. A trade with the Cleveland Browns gave the Vikings additional draft capital, and Minnesota took USC tackle Matt Kalil, the player they wanted all along.

But that wasn't the most notable trade of the night for the Vikings. The Baltimore Ravens were on the clock at pick 29. Rick Spielman, in his first season as Minnesota's general manager, traded away the Vikings' fourth-round pick (98th overall) to the Ravens to move up. He didn't believe Notre Dame safety Harrison Smith would fall to Minnesota at pick 35 in the second round.

ESPN's Kevin Seifert said the move was the Vikings' most impactful draft-day trade in the franchise's history.

GM Rick Spielman loved Smith as a player and person, but after using the No. 4 pick to draft left tackle Matt Kalil, he wasn't certain Smith would still be available when Minnesota's second-round pick (No. 35) arrived. So Spielman sent the Ravens a fourth-round pick to move up to No. 29, and Smith went on to a Hall of Fame caliber career. After 14 seasons, he is one of six defensive backs in NFL history to record at least 35 interceptions and 20 sacks in his career. The other five -- Charles Woodson, Larry Wilson, Ronde Barber, LeRoy Butler and Brian Dawkins -- are all in Canton.

Smith made six Pro Bowls from 2015 through 2021 and is the longest-tenured player on the Vikings. Kalil, who made the Pro Bowl as a rookie, began to decline over the next few seasons and became a free agent after an injury-filled 2016 season.

The move to acquire Smith was aggressive but paid off. For those of us in attendance at the Vikings' official draft party at the Metrodome, we weren't able to see the pick actually unfold. After the "trade" graphic appeared and the Vikings were on the clock, Metrodome workers told everyone in attendance that we had to leave the stadium.

Pleas to sit through at least that pick were ignored, no matter the reasoning (specifically, the Vikings' logo being on the bottom of the screen). In the early days of social media on cell phones, it was harder to stay up to date as we walked out of the stadium.

It wasn't until my dad and I got to our truck that we turned the radio on to hear the Vikings did indeed draft Smith. The moment was bittersweet in the moment but humorous to revisit, and thankfully worth revisiting for this story, even if only a few were there to witness it.

This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Vikings trade back into Rd. 1 in 2012 for Harrison Smith is memorable

Khalil Rountree Jr. played a role in Khamzat Chimaev’s preparation for UFC 328. Despite competing one division above, he joined a group of ranked fighters supporting the middleweight champion.

Alongside names such as Brendan Allen, Rountree helped sharpen ‘Borz’ ahead of his upcoming title defence against Sean Strickland. The experience gave him a close look at the champion’s overall skill set.

Speaking at a press conference yesterday, the 36-year-old American shared his assessment. His comments reflected both admiration and concern about Chimaev’s potential future.

Khalil Rountree Jr. calls Khamzat Chimaev ‘best in the world’ and warns division

Rountree made it clear that training with Chimaev changed his perspective on the champion’s level. He described him as one of the most complete fighters in the sport.

The light heavyweigh contender said (via MMA Junkie): “I feel many different ways. When I first heard the news, I was a bit bummed out, really. Just to know that a guy like Khamzat would come to your division and had to be a potential matchup if that happened, it doesn’t make me happy to think about that.

“I just told you, training with this guy, he’s the best in the world. It’s difficult. It’s difficult in all areas, in standup, in grappling. No one gets an easy round with Khamzat.

“It doesn’t matter what weight class, what size. That were my initial thoughts, like, ‘Damn, if he made the move up, we’re all kind of sc——.’ That’s kind of how I look at it.”

Khamzat Chimaev move up still uncertain despite growing speculation

Dana White has already addressed the idea of Chimaev moving up immediately.

After his win over Dricus du Plessis, the UFC president indicated there are still key matchups available at middleweight, such as his potential fights against Nassourdine Imavov.

However, circumstances could change quickly. Carlos Ulberg’s long-term injury and Paulo Costa’s move up may open a clearer path for Chimaev to test himself at light heavyweight.

Read more:

A former league football player has been charged with conspiracy to commit robbery.

Myles Judd, 27, previously played for League One side Leyton Orient, and other clubs including Dover Athletic, Barnet and Hemel Hempstead Town.

Hertfordshire Police said the alleged offence took place in St Albans, but have not released further details.

Judd has been remanded into custody and is due to appear at Hatfield Magistrates' Court on 2 May.

Judd began his career playing for Leyton Orient and he made more than 60 appearances for the club before leaving in May 2021.

Judd then joined Hemel FC between July 2023 and July 2024.

He then made appearances for non-league football teams across Kent, including Dover Athletic.

Do you have a story suggestion for Beds, Herts or Bucks? Contact us below.

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More on this story

• Orient offer striker Johnson new deal
• Barnet 0-3 Boreham Wood
• Orient extend Judd and Koroma contracts

Related internet links

• The English Football League
• Hertfordshire Constabulary

Robin Zentner has not been in action since suffering an adductor injury back in November. But that could change at the weekend.

With Mainz’s first-choice goalkeeper nearing full fitness, he could potentially return to the starting XI against St. Pauli at the expense of Daniel Batz.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, Mainz coach Urs Fischer neither confirmed nor ruled out the possibility of that happening.

“Let yourself be surprised," Fischer said when asked whether Zentner will be back between the posts on Sunday.

Whether a change will actually happen will become clear on Sunday afternoon when the line-ups are announced.

With Real Madrid’s season coming to a disappointing end, almost certainly one without trophies, the mood around Valdebebas is not positive. To make matters worse, a number of stories are being leaked to the press about the tension in the dressing room.

On Friday it emerged that Dani Ceballos had asked to end relations with manager Alvaro Arbeloa, following an argument in his office. He is set to leave the club in the summer, and may have played his last game for the club. Meanwhile Arbeloa has also had run-ins with Raul Asencio, who has barely played over the past month, and captain Dani Carvajal, who has also spent the majority of his time on the bench over the last few months.

Antonio Rudiger involved in altercation with teammate

However ESPN report that the most explosive altercation of any kind at Valdebebas involved veteran defender Antonio Rudiger. The 33-year-old reportedly ‘lost his mind’ with one of his teammates during training, causing a ‘heated scene’. That was confirmed to them by multiple sources, although they also that it was not an important incident, and was more down to the character of Rudiger than anything else.

Rudiger also involved in spats with opponents

This is not the first time that Rudiger’s temparement has been questioned in recent months. The Germany international was accused of deliberately kneeing Getafe left-back Diego Rico in the head, to which he responded that if he had ‘meant to injury him, he’d still be lying there’.

Meanwhile during Real Madrid’s second leg defeat to Bayern Munich in the Champions League, Bayern defender Josip Stanisic accused Rudiger of crossing the line with his comments, challenging him to tell the public what he said to him. Rudiger is out of contract this summer, but looks set to be offered the chance to extend his deal at the Bernabeu.

Jockey Mike Smith is 59, which has not escaped the attention of his colleagues.

Some of them call him grandpa, according to Smith.

“I get it all, man,’’ he said, but added, “At my age, I'm still doing the things I was doing when I was 30, man. It's crazy.’’

Smith, a two-time winner in the Kentucky Derby, will be in position to become the oldest jockey to win the race Saturday, May 2 at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.

The late Willie Shoemaker was 54 when he rode Ferdinand to victory in  the 1986 Kentucky Derby and he remains the oldest jockey to win the race. Smith, who was 52 when he won the race in 2018, is no long shot to break Shoemaker’s record.

Smith will be riding So Happy, who’s 7-1. Trainer Mark Glatt could have chosen a talented jockey half Smith’s age, but apparently, it was never a consideration with the horse and Smith based in Southern California. Smith also happens to be a Hall-of-Famer.

Kentucky Derby contender: So Happy is the Kentucky Derby horse worth cheering for this year

“He keeps himself in prime condition,’’ Glatt said. “And especially in a race like the Derby, how do you replace the experience that a rider like Mike Smith has?’’

Smith is set to ride in the “Run for the Roses’’ for a record 29^th time, and he is familiar with the winner’s circle.

In 2005, he won the Kentucky Derby on 50-1 longshot Giacomo.

In 2018, he won on Justify and went on to win the Triple Crown.

“You're always excited to make it to the Derby, especially when you make it with one that's really a true contender,’’ Smith said. “And I think this horse showed… in the Santa Anita Derby that not only is he going, but he actually has a big chance to win it all. He really does.’’

So Happy went off at 38-1 in its racing debut and won. Since then, he has raced three more times, placing third once and winning twice – including the Santa Anita Derby in a race that earned the horse a spot in the Derby.

“I think we’re just starting to see the best of him,’’ Smith said.

Could the same be said for the 59-year-old jockey?

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Kentucky Derby 'grandpa' looks to make history as oldest jockey to win

New York Giants general manager Joe Schoen indicated Thursday that discussions with free-agent wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. remain ongoing following a recent workout.

"No updates on that," Schoen said. "We worked him out a couple of weeks ago, and he did a good job in terms of that. We signed a couple of new defensive tackles yesterday, so we’re going to continue to always work on the roster regardless of the position and try to upgrade where we can.

"Odell is a guy we had in for a workout, and we'll continue to have conversations with his camp and see where it goes."

The comments come amid roster adjustments and injuries at wide receiver. Malik Nabers continues to recover from a torn ACL and could potentially miss the start of the regular season, while Darius Slayton recently underwent core-muscle surgery but is expected back for training camp.

Beckham, who impressed during his April workout and physical with the Giants, has hinted multiple times on social media about a potential return to the franchise that drafted him in 2014. Head coach John Harbaugh, who previously coached Beckham in Baltimore, has also maintained conversations with the veteran receiver.

A reunion could provide veteran leadership and depth to a young receiving group as the Giants build for the future.

This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: Giants' Joe Schoen: Talks with Odell Beckham Jr. will 'continue'

PHILADELPHIA -- The Philadelphia 76ers brought in Paul George for a reason. He is a player who can do it all on the offensive end while being one of the better defenders in the league, but it has been something of a sputtering start to his tenure in Philadelphia--until now, at least.

George delivered in a big way in Thursday's 106-93 Game 6 win over the Boston Celtics as he put up 23 points on 8-for-17 shooting while knocking down five triples in the win. He put up those numbers while also having to defend the likes of Celtics stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown and also being asked to help on the glass. This continues to be the best he has looked in a Sixers uniform since returning from his 25-game suspension in the regular season.

"We’re trying to figure it out," said Tyrese Maxey of George. "I mean, we've been having to figure it out on the fly. Not a lot of practice time, but once he came back from the 25 games, he had a mission, and I think he's accomplishing that mission, and he's been really good, and we appreciate him, and we appreciate his sacrifice, but he's done a great job."

As mentioned, George is one of those players who can just fit well next to the likes of Joel Embiid and Maxey as sort of that connector in the middle on the wing. He can knock down 3s, he can take players off the dribble, he can knock down shots in the mid-range, and he is a top-flight defender for this group.

"He just does everything," Embiid added. "Obviously, he’s guarding the two guys on the other team, and then offensively, just filling in, needing a post-up, he’s gonna go get you a bucket, 3s, just doing a little bit of everything, and I said it last game. We’re gonna need all of it."

Paul George, Game 6 pic.twitter.com/VjaRQu7daz

— Brett Usher (@UsherNBA) May 1, 2026

The difference in George's play before and after the suspension is apparent. The 9-time All-Star has been able to look like himself and he has given the Celtics a lot of problems in this series. He has been able to dig deep and give the Sixers a ton of production as that time away during the suspension has helped him so much in that regard.

"Like I said, it came down to now me being able to—like off days spend extra minutes putting up shots, working on my band and my craft and before the suspension, I was kind of saving myself for games because of the soreness, and I wanted to be as fresh as possible going into games," George explained. "Any little thing I felt that was extra outside of practice would have carried over into a game I'm not feeling my best. So, it was a ton of rehab that was involved with that."

George isn't the same ruthless scorer that he once was while with the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder, but he is still clearly somebody who can impact the game in a big way. His time away taught him a lot about himself as he moves forward.

"Now, I can focus on basketball and, again, finally enjoying it, now that I'm able to do things that I was once able to do again, and it's fun for me again," George finished. "So to be honest, it's kind of just like a lock into seeing who I am again. How can I be relevant again? Or, how can I chase some of the things that I was doing in my past. So, it's been fun to be on the floor and just experience it, and kind of just learning things about myself."

This article originally appeared on Sixers Wire: Sixers stars discuss the play of Paul George in win over Celtics

CHICAGO — It’s easy to talk big in the preseason, to style yourself as a team that’s going to be competitive and have championship aspirations.

When you’ve bumbled around as badly as the Chicago Sky has for most of its existence, however, you don’t get the benefit of the doubt. You want to prove you’re serious about winning, that you’re going to do more than the bare minimum?

You’re going to have to actually do it.

“We knew that earning the respect of (free agents) and retaining players that were here was going to take some real sincerity and a genuine plan from our end of who we wanted to be,” Sky general manager Jeff Pagliocca said during the team’s April 30 media day.

“Looking at our roster now, you see more of an athletic group, shot-creating group, some more size, more versatility than we've had over the last couple of seasons,” he said. “We’re really going to go after being a very, very competitive group.”

Chicago Sky hasn't been model franchise

The Sky was always going to be under the microscope because of the WNBA’s new collective bargaining agreement, which more than quadruples most salaries and raises the minimum standards for all teams. Chicago has long been considered one of the W’s worst-run franchises, practicing in a suburban rec center until this season, running off a Who’s Who of star players and making questionable personnel decisions across multiple front offices.

As for the long-awaited practice facility, it still isn’t done. Originally expected to open in December 2025, it’s been delayed for a second time, with Pagliocca now saying it will be ready in “late spring, early summer.”

Then, on April 6, the Sky confirmed all the worst opinions of the franchise by trading Angel Reese, a fan favorite who was supposed to be a franchise cornerstone for years to come.

Reese was the Sky’s best player — she led the WNBA in rebounding in each of her first two seasons and averaged a double-double — but she had angered management with criticisms of the franchise, particularly the wisdom of banking too heavily on Courtney Vandersloot’s return this season. Vandersloot, now 37, tore her ACL last June.

Reshaping the roster

Giving away a superstar like Reese is the kind of move an unserious team makes, but Pagliocca said it was necessary for “roster balance.” In the days that followed, he traded for Rickea Jackson and Jacy Sheldon, and persuaded Azura Stevens to return.

He also won over Skylar Diggins, arguably the Sky’s biggest free-agent pickup since Candace Parker signed with her hometown team.

“Just the moves that they were making, really putting their money where their mouth was and wanting to make some good change toward us getting back competitive, getting back in the playoffs,” Diggins said of what sold her on the Sky.

“Jeff really put that vision out there of what him and (coach) Tyler (Marsh) were thinking for this team, what they wanted for this team.”

On paper, Chicago’s roster looks impressive. It has veteran experience, it has depth, it has defense and it has people who can score.

Challenges still ahead

But the game isn’t played on paper, and the Sky still has challenges.

It will start the season without Vandersloot, Stevens (knee) and DiJonai Carrington (foot), and there is no timetable, at least not publicly, for their returns. Of the 16 players currently on Chicago's roster, 11 have been in the league for two years or less.

“We're a growing organization,” second-year coach Tyler Marsh said. “And we're trying to steer it in a positive direction across the board.”

The Sky are saying all the right things ahead of the season. What matters is whether it can deliver on them.

Follow USA TODAY Sports columnist Nancy Armour on social media @nrarmour.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Chicago Sky must back up WNBA preseason optimism with results

Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant has missed most of the first round of the NBA playoffs against the Los Angeles Lakers and a similar pattern is expected for Game 6.

Durant missed Game 1 with a right knee contusion, an injury he sustained during practice a day before the game. He scored 23 points in a Game 2 loss, but suffered a left ankle sprain that has kept him sidelined for Games 3, 4 and 5.

The pain in his ankle will likely keep him from competing in the potential elimination Game 6 in Houston. League sources told ESPN's Shams Charania that Durant will not play, as the Rockets trail the Lakers 3-2 in their best-of-seven series. Durant was listed as "doubtful" on the NBA injury report as of 10 p.m. ET, April 30.

The Rockets have won the previous two matchups against the Lakers after falling down 3-0 in the series. A Game 7 is scheduled for Sunday, May 3, if necessary.

Durant's timetable for a return was a minimum of two weeks, sources told Charania. He first suffered the ankle injury on April 21. If the Rockets can force Game 7, it would be just days before the two-week mark given for Durant.

The Rockets have won back-to-back games without Durant, though, led by their young, future core of Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., Reed Sheppard and Alperen Sengun. Smith led Houston with a team-high 22 points in the Rockets' 99-93 Game 5 win in Los Angeles. Thompson led the Rockets with 23 points in their 115-96 Game 4 win in Houston.

Durant, 37, averaged 26.0 points, 5.5 rebounds and 4.8 assists in 78 games during the 2025-26 regular season.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Kevin Durant injury update, status for Lakers-Rockets Game 6

Now that we are past spring ball and the 2026 NFL draft, it feels like a good time to see where things land with a projected two-deep depth chart for the Ohio State football team. It's no easy task with 51 new players in the program, but we did get to see some reps and hear some guys start to make a name for themselves during the spring, so what we thought we knew after the transfer portal closed is much different now.

In fact, what we project and predict now will also most likely change once we hit fall camp and begin to see some more things after a summer of conditioning and development behind the scenes. But, as always, we're game to give it a try.

We've already gone through this exercise on the offensive side of the ball, and now it's time to look at the defense and special teams. Here's a look at a projected Ohio State football depth chart on defense and special teams post-spring.

Ohio State football projected two-deep depth chart on defense and special teams

Defensive Line

Starters: Kenyatta Jackson (defensive end), Eddrick Houston (defensive tackle), James Smith (defensive tackle), Qua Russaw (defensive end)

Backups: Zion Grady (defensive end), John Walker Jr (defensive tackle), Will Smith (defensive tackle), Beau Atkinson (defensive end)

There isn't a huge, known difference maker on the defensive line this coming year, but maybe a couple become household names when it's all said and done. Either way, defensive line coach Larry Johnson would love to rotate eight players, so if this is the two-deep, look for all of these guys to get plenty of time. The coaching staff went out to get experience for a reason, so we're going with Alabama transfers Smith and Russaw to get the nod over Will Smith Jr. and Atkinson to pair with Jackson and Houston as starters. This competition figures to go deep into the fall before we see who emerges.

Linebacker

Starters: Payton Pierce, Christian Alliegro

Backups: Riley Pettijohn, Cincere Johnson

Pierce will be a starter with no question. He was considered the third starter last year, even though OSU deployed two linebackers a lot of the time. He's going to make some noise this year, being a full-time starter. The wild card in all of this is Pettijohn because he has the talent to be an explosive player, much like what we saw with Arvell Reese. He's been injured, though, so we just don't know. For now, we'll go with the known commodities of Pierce and Alliegro. We can't forget about TJ Alford or Garrett Stover here, but Johnson is generating a lot of buzz and might just leapfrog them all for some action as a freshman.

Cornerback

Starters: Jermaine Mathews Jr., Devin Sanchez

Backups: Dominick Kelly, Cam Calhoun

It would be a surprise if returners Mathews and Sanchez don't grab the starting spots here. From there, the coaching staff brought in two transfers with experience, Kelly and Calhoun, who should be the nod to be a part of the rotation.

Star

Starter: Earl Little Jr.

Backup: Jay Timmons

Both of these guys had everyone in spring camp excited. Little was held out with injury on the back-end of spring, but before that, he was showing that he might be able to do at least some of the things Caleb Downs did to allow the defense to be varied and flexible. Oh, and he is also a big hitter. Timmons, just a freshman, might have done enough to be the first guy to plug in for Little if needed.

Safety

Starters: Jaylen McClain, Terry Moore

Backups: Leroy Roker, Blaine Bradford

You can write McClain's name in pen here, but beyond that, it gets interesting. Roker and Moore will compete for the other starting spot, but again, if we're going with the thought of playing the more experienced guy, then we have to go with the Duke transfer. Bradford seems to have done enough to be in the conversation for being in the rotation.

Punter

Starter: Joe McGuire

Backup: Brady Young

McGuire should be the unquestioned starter, and let's hope we see a little bigger leg from him at times. Young is still there if needed.

Kicker

Starter: Carter Hawkins

Backup: Cooper Peterson

Hawkins was brought in to solidify things at kicker, so he's going to be the main player without any competition, really. Beyond that, the walk-on Peterson is there, and so too is a walk-on transfer from Notre Dame, Marcello Diomede.

Contact/Follow us @BuckeyesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Ohio State news, notes, and opinion. Follow Phil Harrison on X.

This article originally appeared on Buckeyes Wire: Ohio State football 2026 post-spring projected depth chart on defense

After the Philadelphia Eagles selected Vanderbilt tight end Eli Stowers in the second round of the 2026 NFL draft, the Commodores shared a video of the moment Stowers got "the call" from Philly's draft room.

Somebody who attended Stowers' draft party, perhaps a teammate, friend or family member, can be seen in the background of the video wearing a Denver Broncos hat. Stowers, of course, was heavily connected to the Broncos leading up to the draft, but the Eagles picked him at No. 54, and Denver was not scheduled to pick until No. 62 (they eventually traded back).

The person wearing the Broncos hat can be seen soon after the video begins:

The call that made the dream real 📞 pic.twitter.com/pMKPEwetaC

— Vanderbilt Football (@VandyFootball) April 28, 2026

Denver fans and pundits were quick to spot the hat on social media:

Damn, I spy a specific hat back there… https://t.co/sCMsJdzPjV

— SleeperBroncos (@SleeperBroncos) April 29, 2026

Dude in the back with the broncos hat 💔💔💔💔💔💔💔 IT SHOULDVE BEEN US

— Average broncos fan (@Mike_knowsball) April 28, 2026

Bronco fans are everywhere 😅

— Karsen 🐎 (@Broncos4six) April 29, 2026

What's that hat back there? https://t.co/mZjdbJWCVA

— Luca Evans (@bylucaevans) April 28, 2026

After trading out of the second round, the Broncos selected Texas A&M defensive lineman Tyler Onyedim in the third round at pick No. 66. The Eagles are not among Denver's 2026 opponents, so they won't play Stowers during the regular season this fall, but they will undoubtedly face off against the tight end someday down the road.

Social: Follow Broncos Wire on Facebook and Twitter/X! Did you know: These 25 celebrities are Broncos fans.

This article originally appeared on Broncos Wire: NFL: Somebody wore Broncos hat at Eli Stowers' draft party

Formula 1 is finally back after an extended absence, with this weekend’s Miami Grand Prix.

But it is shaping up to be a rather soggy return to the track.

Weather was the dominant story during Thursday’s media day sessions, as current forecasts call for thunderstorms and heavy rain on Sunday during the main event. That forecast has all the drivers talking about what they might encounter, and even has the sport considering changing the schedule for the weekend.

“It’ll be interesting. I don’t think many of us have driven these cars in the rain before, maybe a couple of people in Barcelona at the shakedown,“ said Oscar Piastri during Thursday’s FIA Press Conference. ”But I think they’re going to be challenging cars to drive in the rain just because of some of the quirks that they have. And obviously the weather, normally if it rains in Miami, it does it properly, so we’ll wait and see. But it’ll be interesting one way or another.“

“I understand that there is a meeting later on with the FIA to double-check the scenario for Sunday because apparently, it’s looking really bad. So, we’ll see if there are any changes on the schedule for the weekend,” added Cadillac’s Sergio Pérez.

The sport’s governing body, the FIA, issued a statement on Thursday.

“We are closely monitoring the weather forecast for this weekend,” an FIA spokesperson said. “Having faced a similar situation last year in Miami with threats of thunderstorms, we have a contingency plan in place and will activate it if needed to minimise disruption to the on-track [program].”

Last year, wet weather on Saturday forced the cancellation of the second F1 Academy race at the Miami Grand Prix, and the F1 Sprint race began in tricky conditions. Charles Leclerc crashed in those conditions ahead of the F1 Sprint race, and did not make the start.

As of Friday morning, forecasts are calling for showers in the morning with heavy thunderstorms on Sunday afternoon, with an 85% chance of rain and up to a half-inch of precipitation during the afternoon:

Complicating matters is the fact that few drivers have operated this year’s machinery in wet conditions, as noted by Piastri. Drivers are still coming to grips with the impact of the new regulations, which were tweaked during the extended break.

Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, the current championship leader, is one of the few drivers who has experienced the new cars in wet conditions. He described that experience as “tricky” on Thursday.

“Yeah, I drove the car when we did the shakedown in Silverstone in the wet and definitely it was very tricky,” said Antonelli.

“Although now with the changes, they clipped the power to 250 kilowatts for the wet and no boost, so that’s already a step forward in that regard. And definitely I think it’s going to be tricky because there will be a lot of unknown, and obviously we’re also going to be racing if the wet weather presents. But I think also another big topic is that we will need to increase tire blanket [temperatures] for the wet because I think as they are now, probably they will be a bit too low for the conditions.

“So yeah, it’s going to be interesting to see, tricky, but let’s see. If it’s thunderstorms, like they say, we probably also won’t get under way for quite a bit of time. So, let’s see how that goes,” added Antonelli. “But definitely it’s going to be very interesting because there’s so much unknown in the wet at the moment, especially no one really used the inter tires, so we don’t know how it’s going to feel, how much grip there will be, especially with the new regulation. And I think also one thing with this year’s cars, it’s a bit harder to build temperature with the tyres, so in the wet they might be tricky and that’s why we probably would need to increase tire blanket [temps] in order to make it a bit better and a bit easier on that side. But yeah, let’s see what’s going to happen.”

As Antonelli pointed out, ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, the FIA announced that the new boost mode would not be accessible for drivers in wet conditions, like we may see on Sunday.

Regarding what F1 could do to the schedule, the 2024 São Paulo Grand Prix may be a guide. Ahead of that race, qualifying for the Grand Prix was moved from Saturday to Sunday morning due to severe weather, and the start time of the Grand Prix on Sunday was pushed up by 90 minutes as well.

With these forecasts, we could see something similar in Miami this weekend.

Bath rugby have been given a significant fitness boost ahead of their Investec Champions Cup semi-final against Bordeaux Begles with captain Ben Spencer able to start at scrum half.

Spencer had been touch and go to feature as he recovers from a shoulder injury sustained in the quarter-final win over Northampton, but has been cleared to play in his side’s first last-four tie for 20 years.

Backs Joe Cokanasiga and Max Ojomoh have been ruled out, though, with Wales international Louie Hennessey partnering Ollie Lawrence in midfield and Henry Arundell set for a head-to-head with fellow speedster Louis BIelle-Biarrey on the wing.

Thomas du Toit, used as an impact replacement in his last six games, is named to start on the tighthead as Bath bid to exploit the absence of Bordeaux Begles captain Jefferson Poirot, who is suspended.

The defending champions will also have to do without head coach Yannick Bru on the touchline as he serves a ban.

The winner of the clash will take on Leinster or Toulon in the Champions Cup final in Bilbao on Saturday 23 May.

Bath XV to face Bordeaux Begles (Sunday 3 May, 3pm BST): 1 Beno Obano, 2 Tom Dunn, 3 Thomas du Toit; 4 Quinn Roux, 5 Charlie Ewels; 6 Josh Bayliss, 7 Guy Pepper, 8 Alfie Barbeary; 9 Ben Spencer (c), 10 Finn Russell; 11 Will Muir, 12 Ollie Lawrence, 13 Louie Hennessey, 14 Henry Arundell; 15 Santi Carreras.

Replacements: 16 Kepu Tuipulotu, 17 Francois van Wyk, 18 Vilikesa Sela, 19 Ted Hill, 20 Sam Underhill; 21 Tom Carr-Smith, 22 Tom de Glanville; 23 Miles Reid.

Lucas Glover has often aired his opinion about the possibility of LIV Golf players returning to the PGA Tour.

Glover is one of the more experienced players on the PGA Tour, having made 574 career starts.

The 46-year-old has recorded six PGA Tour wins throughout his career and he is definitely someone who has benefitted from LIV Golf’s inception.

As a result of LIV Golf being established and poaching some of the PGA Tour‘s biggest names, Glover rose in the world rankings and gained improved status.

Glover took full advantage of the rise in tournament purses, winning the Wyndham Championship and the FedEx St. Jude Championship in back-to-back weeks in 2023.

He has always been outspoken about his opinion of the players who left the PGA Tour to join LIV Golf.

And that could make for some awkward moments in the future, with LIV Golf’s future said to be under serious threat.

What Lucas Glover said about LIV players returning in 2025

Back in July, Glover spoke very openly about the prospect of LIV players returning to the PGA Tour, as quoted via The Golfing Gazette.

“I don’t want to play with them, me personally,“ Glover insisted.

“I don’t think they should be back here, I don’t want them here. They made their decision, and I don’t blame any of them. I don’t care, but they also went away from this tour, and they chose to.

“As a PGA Tour player, and somebody who dreamed of playing on the PGA Tour, and have poured my heart and soul into this tour and game for 21 seasons now, I don’t want somebody who chose another path – a path of less resistance, I don’t want them back competing and taking part of my pie and these kids’ pie who are trying to make it now. I don’t want that.

“We as golf fans, yeah, the top four, five six players over there, if they were playing on the PGA Tour it would benefit all of us, because our TV deal in 2030 would be great.

“That’s the big question now in my opinion is; does it behove us as tour members who have equity now to grow our sport by bringing some of those guys back?

“I’m having a hard time with it and I got some good advice from somebody who’s had the same issues as me, you’ve got to take emotion out of it, but it’s still very hard for me. This is still my dream and I chose to stay, and after I chose to stay I had success.

“As far as a stalemate goes, ‘we’ being the PGA Tour, I don’t think we even care anymore, we’re focused on going forward. They’re not coming away from the team thing, and that’s fine. Our focus now is forward, forward, forward. We’re going to grow our sport, and grow our tour.

“All that being said, I don’t think we care anymore about this unification and I don’t think they do either. That’s fine with me but it’s also kind of shortsighted of me, because if five, six, seven, eight of them still move the needle for the public, that would help us grow even bigger.“

However, he appears to have taken a step back now…

Lucas Glover changes his tune on LIV golfers returning to the PGA Tour

Glover was asked in Miami on Thursday where he stands on the possibility of LIV Golf players returning to the PGA Tour.

“Well, first of all, it’s not up to me,“ Glover started off by saying.

“Second of all, whatever the TOUR decides is whatever they decide. I’ll support that. Like I said, there’s been pathways back, there still are, I don’t know if they will change. I don’t know. I think we’re very much in the infancy of all this and just yeah, I’m not privy to that information at this point.

“I mean, human beings are human beings. I kind of live by that, you treat everybody the same until they give you a reason not to. So, yeah, I have respect for people and golfers because they’re people first and my peers second. I will never begrudge anybody for making a decision for the betterment of their career, their life, whatever that may be. But do I think they should abide by the pathways back and pay the same penalties that the previous people have paid, absolutely.

He was then asked whether he will have a say on the matter, given that he is now on the players’ committee.

“Yeah, I don’t know,” he admitted.

“I don’t know how that, I don’t know — for instance, when the whole Brooks thing came down I don’t know if that was a player decision, if they were — I don’t know.

“Again, I’m very new to this side of it too. If the news is absolutely true and they don’t continue or guys start trying to jump back, they’re going to have to make that decision a lot quicker than I’m going to be on there.“

Talk about a complete U-turn. Glover clearly feels very differently about LIV players coming back to the PGA Tour now.

A cynic would say that is the stance he has been told to take by the higher ups, because Glover isn’t usually a man to back down on his principles.

Here are your links for today:

Devils Links

“Hischier has made it known his goal is to win a Stanley Cup with the New Jersey Devils, and he’s certainly a player they need to keep around if they’re serious about doing so. He has averaged 32.4 goals and 72.6 points per 82 games over the last three seasons. That production alone makes him irreplaceable, let alone all that gets put on his plate defensively and in the faceoff dot. It’s rare to find players who can not only hold their own, but excel, with the kind of usage Hischier draws.” [Infernal Access ($)]

“Despite the disappointing season, the New Jersey Devils still had a few players who exceeded expectations.” [Devils on the Rush ($)]

What might new contracts look like for Nico Hischier, Simon Nemec and Arseny Gritsyuk? Some projections: [New Jersey Hockey Now]

Hockey Links

The Flyers, Wild and Ducks advance, and the Penguins, Stars and Oilers are done:

Lady Byng finalists:

“The on-ice officials not only missed Greig uppercutting a defenseless Hurricanes defenseman, but they also put Brind’Amour’s team on the PK afterward, something the Canes coach said shouldn’t be acceptable given how many people in the building saw the incident take place. But after years of watching mistakes such as this, Brind’Amour didn’t place blame on the two refs and two linesmen on the ice. Instead, he went back to an argument he has been making since he stepped behind the bench: the NHL’s officials need more help to get things right.” [The Athletic ($)]

“Jessica Campbell will not return to the Seattle Kraken bench next season, the team announced Thursday. Campbell’s contract is expiring this summer, and sources told ESPN that she has received interest across the league.” [ESPN]

A cool moment before Tuesday’s Bruins-Sabres game in Buffalo: “Seconds into ‘O Canada,’ national anthem singer Cami Clune’s microphone malfunctioned. A dutiful crowd of 19,070 — Shane and Andrea Doan included — rushed to her aid with a full-throated, word-for-word reinforcement.” [The Athletic ($)]

Feel free to discuss these and any other hockey-related stories in the comments below.

Frank Warren has admitted that the episode surrounding Lawrence Okolie’s failed drug test is “a very, very big disappointment”, after the British heavyweight’s fight with Tony Yoka collapsed on short notice.

Okolie was due to face France’s Yoka in Paris last Saturday, but the fight fell through on Tuesday, when it emerged that Okolie had returned an adverse drug-test result.

Warren’s Queensberry Promotions, which was organising the fight, shared the news, which they said had come from the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association.

Okolie took to social media to offer a statement, with the former cruiserweight and bridgerweight champion saying: “Before anyone starts imagining the worst, following my bicep injury last year, I sustained an elbow injury on the same arm during this camp.

“I had a treatment on it and now we are here. I truly hope sense prevails.

“I will of course be fully cooperating with all relevant authorities and I’m confident any investigation will clear my name. I won’t be making any further comment at this time. Thank you for all your support and see you soon.”

On Thursday, Warren said on a call with The Independent and other outlets: “It’s a very, very big disappointment. I mean, [I’m] very disappointed with that, but it is what it is.

“It will have to take its course when UKAD [UK Anti-Doping] and the [British Boxing] Board of Control call for the hearing, and they’ll have to go through the procedure.

“He’ll eventually... I’m sure he’ll present his B sample, and then depending on the outcome of that... If it matches the A sample, then he’s gonna have to give an explanation.”

That is the standard procedure in most cases, and it will have to play out before Okolie competes again.

The 33-year-old last fought in December, stopping Ebenezer Tetteh in the second round in Nigeria, as he continued his heavyweight venture.

Okolie (23-1, 17 KOs) is 3-0 at heavyweight, after his lone bridgerweight fight saw him win the division’s WBC title, following a run as WBO cruiserweight champion.

Okolie’s cruiserweight-title reign was ended by his former training partner Chris Billam-Smith in 2023, in the sole defeat of Okolie’s professional career so far.

The offseason is here a little earlier than the Penguins wanted it to be. As they shift into that mode, here’s what to watch for in the upcoming weeks for the early portion of decisions that will need to be made and events to unfold prior to the busy period around the draft and free agency.

Step 1: The Wilkes-Barre playoff run

Pittsburgh’s season is over but there’s still important information to glean for the organization within their AHL team. There are several players in Wilkes-Barre now, from Sergei Murashov to Rutger McGroarty, Ville Koivunen, Avery Hayes and Harrison Brunicke that will have very good chances to graduate to the NHL as soon as the start of next season. The organization would love to see a deep run by WBS to see which young players rise to the occasion and pique their interest when it comes to sorting out their squad for next season and which holes they might still want to fill via trades and free agents over the summer. The Pens probably wouldn’t have traded for Arturs Silovs without his 2025 Calder Cup run, this year their targets could well be internal for projecting to the NHL club.

Step 2: Find out draft position

Pittsburgh’s draft spot is currently 22nd, with draft position being set by regular season performance and not playoff results (until Conference Finals and Stanley Cup teams getting bumped to the end of the order, anyways). The Pens’ slot could move up to 20th if both the Flyers beat Carolina next round AND Vegas doesn’t advance to the Western Conference Final. If one of those items occur then the Pittsburgh pick moves to 21st. If neither of them happen, the pick remains 22nd. Vegas is up 3-2 in their series on Utah to move onto the next round and Carolina is a heavy favorite, so for draft positioning there might not be a move up from 22nd, but it’s one of those things to sit back and wait and see how it goes.

Step 3: Sort out Evgeni Malkin

This could take hours, days, weeks or even months to reach a conclusion. Malkin has made no secret his desire to return in 2026-27 with the Penguins. Kyle Dubas, on the other hand, has been in no rush to extend the star forward. Malkin will turn 40 this summer and the Penguins want to get younger, but he did produce 61 points in 56 games this season. Objectively, there shouldn’t be much to think about here to give the franchise icon a one-year extension. He’s still a productive player that could and should help the team next season and likely even come at a discounted rate. (It also doesn’t hurt that Malkin will help sell tickets and merch while keeping Sidney Crosby happier).

Step 4: Ownership transition

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman recently said the sale of the Penguins from FSG to the Hoffmann announced in December is ‘on track’ but didn’t give a timetable of when it would be completed. That requires Board of Governors approval and they haven’t had a meeting recently to get to that business. Immediate reactions might be for some sort of drastic change or shifts but it usually doesn’t pan out like that from the very start. It’s still an important item to check off the list, even if it likely won’t alter the offseason or team direction.

Step 5: Other free agents

The unrestricted free agents on the NHL roster, along with Malkin, are Kevin Hayes, Anthony Mantha, Noel Acciari, Connor Dewar, Connor Clifton, Ryan Shea, Ilya Solovyov and Stuart Skinner. In an effort to get younger, most of these names have likely played their final game as a Penguin. To varying levels, a few (most likely Dewar, Shea and Solovyov) will at least be approached for a possible return, if not get outright efforts to keep for next season. Maybe that applies to some of Acciari, Mantha and Skinner too, though I’d personally put those three names in a much less likely to return category at this point.

For restricted free agents, the Pens have Egor Chinakhov and Arturs Silovs to deal with (plus Koivunen and Joel Blomqvist down in the AHL). In this day and age it’s not uncommon to not tender an RFA and try to get a better deal for the team – that happened with Dewar and Phil Tomasino last year, but it’s a no-brainer that everyone mentioned in this category will get a qualifying offer and have their rights retained by the Pens.

—

There are certainly other items to consider and items to get to as well, depending on how aggressive the team might feel about what to do with someone like Ryan Graves or whatever might happen with the Kris Letang situation, whose no movement contract turns to a 10-team no trade on July 1st. Items like that are not as pressing or immediate for this early look at the offseason items and decisions that will unfold first.

There’s already tension around Liverpool right now, with ticket price protests highlighting a growing disconnect between supporters and decision-makers, and Arne Slot’s latest comments suggest change isn’t limited to what we see on the pitch.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL EMPIRE OF THE KOP APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

The Dutchman has now opened up on backroom adjustments, hinting that further shifts could still be on the horizon.

Slot addresses Liverpool backroom changes

Speaking via Liverpool’s official YouTube channel, Arne Slot reflected on the departure of a member of staff earlier this season, set-piece coach Aaron Briggs.

Our head coach explained: “We all know we lost a member of staff during the season, we parted ways. So it makes complete sense for this club if someone is leaving that you look at replacing.”

That decision came midway through the campaign, with the role handled internally since, though Slot’s comments suggest it may not remain that way for long.

He continued by outlining the broader philosophy behind these decisions: “In general you are looking to improve player wise and staff wise. Always keeping eyes open.”

More change possible behind the scenes

This isn’t happening in isolation either, because there’s already been turnover within the coaching setup over the past year, with John Heitinga leaving and Giovanni van Bronckhorst coming in, while further uncertainty remains.

Van Bronckhorst has been linked with opportunities elsewhere, which could again leave a gap that needs filling.

Slot previously made it clear that Briggs’ departure wasn’t taken lightly, stating: “He was a part – and a big part – of us winning the league last season… he has been a big help to me.”

That context matters, because while changes are often framed as improvements, they also mean losing continuity, something that can have a real impact over time.

At a moment when fans are already questioning the direction of the club, hearing that both the playing squad and the coaching staff are subject to ongoing review only adds to that sense of transition.

Whether these moves ultimately strengthen us or create further instability will become clearer in the months ahead, but for now, it’s evident that the rebuild isn’t just happening on the pitch.

Joao Palhinha kept the season alive as Tottenham Hotspur snuck past last-place Wolves, but the journey is far from over. West Ham remains two points ahead with four matches to go, and it no longer seems like even 40 points is a safe mark this year. Just getting there would require a 2-1-1 closing for Spurs, and with a trip to Stamford Bridge still looming, it essentially requires points from each of the other three fixtures.

That seems…unlikely, but survival was always going to require some luck. Sunday’s trip to Aston Villa represents the toughest remaining opponent in terms of table position, though Unai Emery’s side is dealing with the Europa League semis and questionable league form, having won just two of its last eight fixtures (both victories coming at home, however). Tottenham is not favored, but points must be earned somehow.

Match Details

Date: Sunday, May 3
Time: 2:00 pm ET, 7:00 pm UK
Location: Villa Park, Birmingham
TV: USA Network (US), TNT Sports 1 (UK)
Table: Spurs (18th, 34 pts), Villa (t-4th, 58 pts)

Spurs have had mixed results against Villa, but the recent stretch has not been kind. After a 4-1 win in November 2024 (following that impressive 4-0 trouncing the March before), it has been four straight losses in this head-to-head, including FA Cup eliminations in consecutive seasons. The reverse league fixture saw Rodrigo Bentcanur score in the opening five minutes before Villa came back to win 2-1 in North London.

Two Things to Watch

Expecting little

The first three matches under Roberto De Zerbi have done little to suggest the attack will reach his desired levels of fluidity. With three goals scored and an average xG under 1.0, it is fair to question if Spurs are simply unable to score enough to avoid relegation, even if the defense is miraculously improved (which is obviously a fantasy in itself).

Theoretically, the Villa defense is exploitable, sitting right next to Spurs in xGA this season, despite allowing the sixth-fewest actual goals. Three of the past six league opponents have found the back of the net at least three times each, though the other three contests during that stretch featured a total of two goals conceded. Most recent battles between these sides have seen modest scoring, and that feels like a safe bet again.

Much of this comes from Tottenham’s ever-dwindling list of healthy attackers. With Dominic Solanke and Xavi Simons joining the crowded infirmary, good luck finding any sort of consistent attack. Richarlison, Mathys Tel, Lucas Bergvall, and Randal Kolo Muani are just about the only options, so there are going to be a ton of longballs that hopefully yield a lucky bounce in the final third.

Weekly Intangibles Update

To recap: Opta (an imperfect source, but at least a reasonable one), has West Ham at 40.2 points, with Leeds (45.7) and Forest (44.0) safe from the fray. The Hammers’ trip to the Gtech on Saturday is massive, especially since Spurs will know their standing ahead of the trip to Villa Park. While a draw (or loss) provides an opportunity to, at least temporarily, escape the drop zone, a West Ham win gives Spurs essentially no wiggle room.

Obviously, there is no result on Saturday that lowers the importance of Tottenham’s own fixture, but the gravity of seeing West Ham up five points does not sound great. Assuming equal results against Leeds, that would mean Spurs would need to win two of its other three matches in order to match the Hammers’ theoretical 42-point tally, and since one of those is against Chelsea, suddenly Villa is basically a must win.

Thankfully the home side will not be saying the same thing. Overcoming the 1-0 deficit to Forest in the Europa semis is the primary focus now with an eight-point cushion in the Champions League places, so perhaps Emery will mercifully deploy some rotation over the weekend. Wolves did not exactly roll over last Saturday, but hey, I would much rather face teams with nothing to play for than those still in the hunt. If talent is not enough to get Tottenham over the line, maybe desperation will be.

Good morning Gang Green Nation! Here are your links to your New York Jets this glorious Friday in May:

Randy Lange – How Jets Made Franchise History in Round 4 Tradeup to Take Cade Klubnik

Jordan Reid – 2027 NFL mock draft: Reid’s early first-round predictions

Nick Wojton – Winners, losers from the Jets’ 2026 NFL Draft class

Nick Wojton – The Athletic names Jets among ‘winners’ from 2026 NFL Draft

Nick Wojton – 2026 NFL Draft: Jets earn top grade from CBS Sports for team’s haul

Nick Wojton – Report: Did the Jets jump AFC rival to make pick at 2026 NFL Draft?

Matt Sullivan – Jets OC predicted Kenyon Sadiq pick during pre-draft interview with Oregon TE

Glenn Naughton – Russell Wilson Pursuit Sure to Catch eye of Former Jets GM

Charlie Baduini – Steve Wilks’ latest career move proves Jets had one of the league’s worst DCs

Derek Praschak – ESPN draft expert believes Jets dominated the 2026 NFL Draft

Mike Luciano – 3 biggest holes Jets must fill despite strong 2026 NFL Draft

Charlie Baduini – Joel Klatt gives Jets the ultimate praise for 2026 NFL Draft haul

Cardell Hardy – The New York Jets’ Path Back to Relevancy

Here are your missed connections from yesterday.

Free of charge for the discerning reader.

Happy birthday to Marcus Stroman* and a mighty host of others.

Today in baseball history, in 1991, Nolan Ryan of the Texas Rangers pitches the seventh no-hitter of his major league career, and other stories as well.

Today in baseball history:

• 1891 – In front of almost 10,000 fans, Cy Young of the Cleveland Spiders defeats the Cincinnati Reds, 12-3, in the first game ever played in Cleveland’s League Park.
• 1912 – George Sisler, a freshman at the University of Michigan, strikes out 20 in seven innings. Sisler will start his Hall of Fame career in 1915 with the St. Louis Browns, but will gain his fame as a hitter.
• 1925 – The Philadelphia Athletics introduce another future Hall of Famer, 17-year-old catcher Jimmie Foxx, who pinch-hits a single in the 9-4 loss to the Washington Senators.
• 1926 – All-time great pitcher Satchel Paige makes his debut in the Negro Southern League. Paige, at 19 years of age, leads Chattanooga to a 5-4 win over Birmingham.
• 1951 – Mickey Mantle hits the first home run of his career off Randy Gumpert in an 8-3 victory over the Chicago White Sox at Comiskey Park. In the same game, former Negro Leagues star Minnie Miñoso, the first black player in the history of the White Sox franchise. Miñoso belts a home run in his first at-bat.
• 1955 – Bob Feller pitches hitless ball for 6+ innings and hurls his major league record 12th one-hitter in a 2-0 victory in the opener, and in the nightcap rookie Herb Score strikes out the first nine batters (for a total of 16) en route to a 2-1 four-hit victory.
• 1959 – At the age of 39, Early Wynn of the Chicago White Sox pitches a one-hit shutout, strikes out 14, and hits a double and home run for a 1-0 victory over the Boston Red Sox at Comiskey Park.
• 1966 – Pittsburgh trounces the lowly New York Mets, 8-0. With four hits, Roberto Clemente equals the Mets’ total all by himself. Leading off the 4th, his line drive toward the right-center fence comes within inches of clearing the wall at the 436-foot sign.
• 1974Tom Seaver strikes out 16 Dodgers and gives up only three hits in over 12 innings, but the Mets lose in the 14th, 2 -1.
• 1975 – Hank Aaron collects four hits and two RBI in the Brewers’ 17-3 win over Detroit. This brings his career RBI total to 2,211, breaking Babe Ruth‘s record of 2,209. On February 3, 1976, the Records Committee will revise Ruth’s total to 2,204. In actuality, Aaron set the record with 2,205 on April 18th.
• 1984 – Dwight Gooden becomes the first teenager to strike out a least ten batters in a game since Bert Blyleven accomplished the feat in 1970. The Mets’ 19-year-old phenom, who will set a major league rookie record with 276 strikeouts, will have a total of 15 double-digit strikeout games this year.
• 1991Rickey Henderson of the Oakland Athletics surpasses Lou Brock as the major league career stolen base leader with his 939th steal in a 7-4 victory over the New York Yankees.
• 1991Nolan Ryan of the Texas Rangers pitches the seventh no-hitter of his major league career. The 44-year-old Ryan, who defeats the Toronto Blue Jays, 3-0, becomes the oldest pitcher to hurl a no-hit game. His masterpiece includes 16 strikeouts and only two walks. It is also the 209th time he has struck out ten or more in a game, and the 26th time putting 15 or more down on strikes.
• 2010 – Roy Halladay throws his second shutout in three starts when the Phillies stop the Mets’ winning streak at eight games with a 10-0 win.

Cubs Birthdays:Marcus Stroman*, Rudy Meoli, Paul Carter.

Today in history:

• 1486 Christopher Columbus proposes his plan to search for a western route to India in an audience with Spanish monarch, Isabella I; full support is granted three years later.
• 1851 – First public flushing toilets the ‘Monkey Closets’ unveiled by George Jennings as part of The Great Exhibition at Hyde Park, London, costing one penny.
• 1930 – The planet Pluto is officially named by 11-year-old English schoolgirl Venetia Burney
• 1939 – Batman first appears in Detective Comics #27.
• 1941 – “Citizen Kane,” directed by Orson Welles and starring himself, premieres at the in NYC.
• 1952 – Mr. Potato Head is first introduced by toy company Hasbro.
• 1964 – First BASIC program runs on a computer at Dartmouth College.
• 1989 – Tim Berners-Lee, working at CERN, submits his initial proposal for the World Wide Web (WWW).
• 1999 – Animated series “SpongeBob SquarePants,” created by Stephen Hillenburg, debuts on Nickelodeon.

*pictured.

Happy Friday, Big Cat Country! Let’s look at some Jacksonville Jaguars highlights, hype, and more from X/Twitter posted during the past week.

Trevor and Marissa Lawrence hosted a football and soccer clinic over the weekend for the Boys & Girls Club:

The team was surprised with a sunrise set:

NFL Africa shared this clip of Emmanuel Pregnon being drafted by the Jags:

Rookie Ben Patterson’s response to being signed:

Pro Football Hall of Fame Ambassador highlighted Jaguars rookie WR Josh Cameron’s last two seasons at Baylor:

The team shared rookie numbers and number updates:

Colorado Football posted this Buffalo x Jaguars connection:

Jaguars legend Jimmy Smith and Travis Hunter:

To help usher in the weekend, please enjoy these James Robinson Louisville Kings highlights:

I hope you have a good weekend! Not following Big Cat Country on social media? You can find us on Twitter, Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, and Threads.

The word “dilemma” refers to a situation in which a difficult choice must be made, often between two or more undesirable options.

I see the topic of Catchers on the boards and marvel at how many points of view there are. Pages is unplayable because of his (lack of) offense. Herrera is unplayable because of his defense, especially his throwing. Crooks showed poorly and strikes out way too much and is untested and…and…and. Then there is Pozo. A charming rags-to-riches story, but little more. Many don’t understand why he is even on the roster or in the discussion. The answer to that side question became more clear last Saturday when Pages had to come out of the game when his hamstring tightened up. Without Pozo, the Cardinals lose the DH and add burden to Herrera earlier in the season than I think they’d like.

To further complicate a discussion, we could add the emerging Leo Bernal and the whistle we hear in the distance that is a high-speed train named Rainel Rodriguez. Since this is a data drive view, I’ll leave them aside – no data.

Today, I’m going to focus on the two main catching characters in this story – Pages and Herrera. We are starting to get some data. It isn’t definitive, particularly on the defensive side, because defensive stats can take a long time to stabilize, as in years. But we do have some data points. Fortunately, catchers are busy enough that the data points we have are more than a few. Let’s check the data we are getting against the narratives that have formed.

First, some background

Coming into the season, the Cardinals plan was to try and incorporate Ivan Herrera back into the catching rotation. Injuries limited him to 14 games behind the dish last year. Knee (bone bruise), hamstring and elbow issues all added up to a lost season from a catching standpoint, limiting him. But, boy, that bat. .837 OPS gets a persons’ attention, doesn’t it? Especially when it looks like there might be even more upside there.

As it has turned out in 2026, Pages has caught Liberatore, May and Leahy each turn through the rotation, and Herrera has caught McGreevy and Pallante each turn. This translates into a straight up 60-40% split of the catching duties, with Pages on the strong side of the platoon. For the most part, on his non-catching days, Ivan has served as the DH.

I think we have enough data to formulate some initial opinions about how this plan is working out.

Overall

Reader and commenter Solanus has some really interesting data collection he does on pitchers and catchers. I’ve managed to capture some of it in R queries, making the data more generally accessible (he hand collates this and I’m not passionate enough for that). I thought I’d start there.

The table above is a query of catcher outcomes for the 2026 season through the series with Seattle. What do I notice? The first thing that stands out is RA/game. This is a decent proxy for a more commonly cited reference called Catcher ERA. RA/game ignores Official Scorer variability and simply attributes the teams overall run prevention to the catcher who started. In prior years, Herrera’s Catcher ERA and RA/game have been noticeably higher than Pages. This year, not so much. When IH starts, the Cardinals are giving up .9 less run per game than when Pages starts.

Solanus has developed a Shutdown(SD)/Meltdown(MD)/No Decision (ND) method for starters not dissimilar to one Fangraphs uses to rate relievers. In this method, one takes all pitcher/batter events and calculates the change in win probability that resulted from whatever outcome the pitcher experienced. Give up a HR? Win probability goes down. Strike a guy out, win probability goes up. WPA is situation dependent. Relievers tend to experience much greater WPA with one event (such as the closer getting the final out with the tie and winning runs on base), whereas pitchers tend to accumulate WPA in much smaller increments, but much higher rates, since they face more batters. Starters throwing to Herrera (McGreevy, Pallante) are experiencing a net positive WPA so far in 2026, whereas the starters throwing to Pages (Liberatore, May, Leahy) are net negative. The method evaluates WPA > .06 as a shutdown performance (SD) by the pitcher. WPA < -.06 is a meltdown (MD) pitching outcome. Otherwise, ND. As you can see in the data, Pages has worn most of the Meltdowns among starters.

Personally, I’m not a guy that relies heavily on Catcher ERA or RA/game, because of its apparent volatility. But if you are a person inclined to cite this stat when defending your point of view that Herrera is not workable as a catcher, you might want to check again.

Throwing

Some folks would point to Ivan’s struggles with throwing base runners out and the obvious contributions from his bat, along with the injuries, and opine that Ivan would be better off at DH or another defensive position that keeps his bat in the lineup. Others discount the impact of CS% because the low run value of a stolen base (and the relatively high negative cost of a Caught Stealing). A team has to steal a lot (!) of bases and have a high success rate for the steals to really matter. Let’s look at some underlying metrics.

This is obviously small sample size theater. But many of these numbers compare to historical results for each player.

Herrera catches McGreevy and Pallante (not a pitcher noted for holding runners well). With these pitchers, the runners are a good 5 feet closer to second when the catcher’s throwing comes into play. That’s an extra half, almost full step. If you watch replays of SB attempts, 5 feet is significant.

Pages is a nick faster in pop time, but both are considered average by MLB standards. In MLB, the .1 difference is close to 1 standard deviation from average. Note that Pages has a stronger arm (MPH, last column). Herrera’s is up about .5 MPH from last year. MLB average for throw velocity is 83-84, so both are below average in throwing. Herrera moreso. One thing you can glean from these numbers…teams are not running crazy when Ivan catches.

You see the expected CS rate? If I understand, it’s a bit like xFIP and normalizes back to league averages given the pop time, exchange time and throw velocity. With the small sample, the actual CS doesn’t mean a lot. Statcast estimates that with the metrics Ivan has, he would likely throw out ~15% of runners given pitchers that could hold runners closer to first. That 15% is low, but not unsustainably lower than Pages at 22% expected. I have more research to do to verify, but I gather that Pages over-performs his expected CS rate and Herrera under-performs due to the large disparity in the “distance to second factor”, which is functionally a matter of how well pitchers hold the runners on.

Framing

While throwing is a super small sample size, framing is not. Lots of chances to do this. What do we see?

From a framing standpoint, the two catchers are pretty much even. Herrera doesn’t “steal” quite as many strikes on pitches just off the plate as Pages does, but he is above league average. Neither is particularly adept at stealing strikes beyond 1” outside the zone. Given what we see with ABS, that 1”-2” outside the SZ may become moot as challenges correct these calls.

The chart below overlays both catchers against league averages. Both chart out as pretty much league average, with Pages having a slight edge in Shadow Strike%, just enough to add 1 run for framing.

The chart below visualizes Pages’ and Herrera’s data, with the rest of the league shown in the lighter green lines. Verdict? They are both average net-net. You can see this in the Framing Runs.

One final component of framing is a new one. The utilization of ABS by each catcher. I’m still trying to figure some of this data out, and I’ve omitted what I don’t quite comprehend yet. But there is a high-level theme that emerges.

Above, we see that Pages is 1 run better than Herrera in framing (probably more like 1.5 on a rate basis, given the 60-40 split of playing time). If we look at the correction rate on framing, we see that Herrera is a more effective user of ABS, to the tune of 1 run. This is driven by two features Ivan has. First, he challenges less than expected, by almost half, whereas Pages is right at league average. But Herrera is successful 90% of the time with his challenges. Should he challenge more? The data says he might just be wrong more…I haven’t been able to correlate the data, but it is a decent bet that Herrera’s high overturn rate occurs on pitches in that zone 0-1” inside the K zone and that 63% framing metric ends up looking better after attenuating for successful challenges.

If you are willing to net ABS into framing runs, you end up with Herrera and Pages being in a dead heat so far in 2026.

Blocking

To-date, we Pages is dead on average blocking over 787 opportunities. No small sample here. He is league average.

Herrera grades out almost the same. -1 runs below average, resulting in one more expected PB or WP event. On a rate basis, you could probably view that as -2 runs.

Pages blocking opportunities exceed what I’d expect with a 60-40 timeshare. Herrera has 380 block opportunities in 40% of the games suggests that Pages should have 570 or so, not 787. It appears Pages’ pitchers makes him work a bit harder.

Would Herrera hold up as average with different, more erratic pitchers? I don’t know. I double checked (no chart, sorry) and the total number of tracked pitches between Herrera and Pages did comport with the 60-40 split, further supporting the notion that Pages’ pitching trio is a bit more challenging with balls in the dirt.

The offensive side

The comparison charts below omit that names, but I bet you can guess which is Herrera and which is Pages.

Herein lies the main argument in the Pages/Herrera “tastes great/less filling” argument. Pages grades out as a bit better defensive catcher (overall +1 fielding runs instead of Herrera’s overall 0 fielding runs if you include ABS), but as a materially worse hitter (-1 batting runs versus 5 batting runs). Given the current playing time allotment and same performance over 162-game season, Herrera would come out ~30 batting runs, whereas Pages would be around 0. That is 3 wins right there (under the Pythag theory that 10 runs = 1 win). Meanwhile, Pages would grade out as +6 field runs (1/2 of a win) and Herrera would grade out as 0 fielding runs. Fundamentally, Herrera grades out 2.5 wins better than Pages (net-net).

An alternative argument becomes … well, leverage Ivan’s bat at DH. Except…when Ivan DH’s, the DH penalty impacts him to the point where he is a league average hitter as seen by taking his offensive splits when DHing and seeing a 101 wRC+. Closer to 0 runs than 30. The data begins to suggest that perhaps Ivan should be the one on the long side of the platoon. You’d lose a bit defensively but potentially gain quite a bit offensively. How much you ask? Ivan’s hitting, while catching, is 181 wRC+. You want to know how good of a hitter Ivan is? 181 wRC+ would be third in the MLB, behind Rice and Alvarez.

Want to claim SSS on that 181 wRC+ for 2026? Let’s look at 2025. Ivan’s wRC+ while catching was an astounding 242. To be fair, he was wRC+ 127 at the DH spot. But across both years (and consequently, a much larger sample size), the DH penalty the Cardinals pay with Ivan is in the 80 – 100 wRC+ range. One could argue that is a heavy fine to pay for a little bit better defense.

Playing Time

The current format is for a 60-40 playing time split. Realistically, that is how the catcher position divides up for many teams. Rare is the everyday catcher, and rarer still is the everyday catcher who avoids injury. Only 12 catchers in MLB caught more that 105 games in 2025. A 60-40 split (or slightly different, like 67-33) is what every team, including the Cardinals, face. I don’t think the Cardinals have the option of playing Ivan at C for 162 games, or even 140.

One option that could be considered would be to flip the platoon basis, in favor of Herrera being 60% of the games. Playing out offense at current rates of each player, adding 30 games to Herrera’s non-DH offensive number would produce in the neighborhood of 10-12 more runs (using wRC) over what you’d expect from him at catcher on the offensive side, less 1-2 runs blocking throwing on the defensive side. Net of ~10 additional runs, that would be worth 1 win.

Summary

These are the numbers we can look at to-date. There isn’t any meaningful way to evaluate game calling and other soft skills, although RA/game or Catcher ERA may provide some hints at the macro level.

So far, Herrera grades out better at coaxing greater performance, moreso among the starters than relievers. That is what RA/game tells us, but that is not how the Cardinals view it internally. I see Pages and Herrera as functionally the same at framing, and Pages is slightly better at controlling the run game, but both are below average here. Overall, Pages is a bit better defensively, but perhaps nothing decisive (in the data we can observe). Herrera is materially better offensively. What to do?

I think with the data above, you can see why the Cardinals have Ivan Herrera catching. Net-net, they get more out of the C position than they would with Herrera as full-time DH, and they get more out of Ivan, too. While I think one could argue that the current arrangement is the optimum arrangement to maximize both players’ value, a gradual shift of the platoon allotment might be warranted, as Ivan gets further away from injury and recovery.

At some point, we can opine that the Cardinals need to get more offense from the 60% side of the platoon. This would entail 1) moving Herrera to the long side of the platoon or 2) promoting Crooks to replace Pages and hoping he can provide more offense. It’s not clear the Cardinals are ready to take that leap of faith. Another key question would be … what would be the impact on the defense? To my eyes (looking at the data), the bar Crooks must reach defensively is to be better than average. Again, it is not clear that the Cardinals are ready to take the leap that Crooks can clear that bar. Perhaps later this year, when the season outcome is more decided.

This is the dilemma from a data perspective, using the data we have to-date. Stay tuned.

Good morning, Camden Chatters.

If you were looking for a perfect six-hour encapsulation of the Orioles’ 2026 season so far, look no further than yesterday’s doubleheader against the Astros. The opener of the twin bill showcased how gloriously high the Birds’ potential can be when everything is clicking…and then the second game harshly reminded us of the sloppy, unwatchable mess this team too often becomes.

You’d hardly believe these two games were played by the same team. Game one was a master class in how to play winning baseball. Stupendous pitching, timely hitting, and grand slams aplenty led the Orioles to a 10-3 blowout win. Roughly 30 minutes later, the O’s stumbled out of the dugout and fumbled their way through a poorly pitched, defensively shoddy top of the first inning that put them into a 5-0 hole from which they never recovered, en route to an 11-5 loss.

As Mark Brown often writes, the Orioles never let you feel good about them for very long. Every time it appears they’re turning a corner or gaining some momentum, their fatal flaws show up and knock them on their keisters. The O’s had no sooner returned to the .500 mark with their win in the opener before they sank back underwater to 15-16 to finish April.

It’s been that way all year. The O’s have won just often enough to keep themselves afloat but never enough to pull away from mediocrity. Consider their week-by-week records so far:

First homestand: 3-3
First road trip: 3-3
Second homestand: 3-3
Second road trip: 3-4
Third homestand: 3-3

I guess there’s something to be said for consistency. But hovering around .500 isn’t going to cut it if the Orioles have real designs on being a contender.

It was at exactly this same point of the schedule last year — 31 games in — that the Orioles’ season completely fell apart. They began a death spiral of 15 losses in 17 games, costing manager Brandon Hyde his job and fully burying the Orioles’ hopes of relevance. The 2026 Orioles, at least, haven’t yet shown that level of futility. But their schedule is about to get a lot tougher, starting with a four-game trip tonight to face the best team in the American League, the Yankees. And 19 of the Orioles’ next 25 games are against teams that are currently .500 or better.

It’s going to be a real test of the Orioles’ mettle. If yesterday’s game one was any indication, the O’s can more than hold their own. But if yesterday’s game two was any indication? Well, my friends, things could get real ugly, real quick.

Links

Should you be optimistic about the Orioles? | MAILBAG – BaltimoreBaseball.com

Even Rich Dubroff’s case for optimism doesn’t sound all that optimistic. It’s more of an acknowledgement that most other AL teams aren’t that good, either.

A few random O’s stats and notes – Steve Melewski

Orioles catchers are the best hitters in the league! As for Orioles third basemen, um…uh…let’s just move on to the next link.

Meet 2 Orioles fans making the most of a doubleheader in the all-you-can-eat Truist Club – The Baltimore Banner

If you can eat as much stuff in six hours as these two O’s fans did, maybe the price of a Truist Club ticket is worth it. But as someone who can’t make it past one serving at Bill Bateman’s all-you-can-eat wings night, I think I’ll pass.

Orioles legend Jim Palmer eats his 1st chicken wing after grand slam bet – The Baltimore Sun

Speaking of wings, guess which 80-year-old just ate one for the first time in his life? See you at Bill Bateman’s, Jim.

Orioles birthdays and history

Is today your birthday? Happy birthday! Two former Orioles right-handers were born on this day: Dillon Tate (32) and Allan Ramirez (69).

On this day in 2012, Orioles skipper Buck Showalter notched his 1,000th career win, fittingly enough against the team he first managed, the Yankees. In a 7-1 rout, eight different Orioles had hits, including homers by Chris Davis and J.J. Hardy. Starter Brian Matusz, who had been 0-12 with a 10.47 ERA in 14 starts since his last win, got off the schneid with an excellent performance, holding the Yanks to one run in 6.1 strong innings. Showalter would finish his managerial career with 1,727 wins, including 669 with the Orioles.

Random Orioles game of the day

The random number generator spat out 2024, so we’re getting a recent one today. On May 1, 2024, the Orioles lost a 2-0 shutout to the Yankees at Camden Yards. Ace Corbin Burnes gave a valiant effort for the O’s, pitching six innings and giving up just two runs, both coming on an Oswaldo Cabrera homer in the fifth. But the Birds’ offense had no answer for Yankees starter Luis Gil, the eventual AL Rookie of the Year winner, who tossed 6.1 scoreless frames. Gil held Colton Cowser, the guy he ultimately beat out for ROY honors, to an 0-for-2. Clay Holmes got the last five outs for the save. The win pulled the Yanks into a virtual tie with the Orioles atop the AL East.

The Detroit Tigers return to Comerica Park to host the Texas Rangers on Friday after a 4-5 interleague swing that concluded with a 5-2 victory in the finale against the Braves in Atlanta on Thursday to prevent a sweep.

This weekend’s series opens up a six-game homestand that has the Boston Red Sox coming to town for the second leg of the stretch. But first things first — the Rangers arrive in the D just a half-game behind the Tigers in the overall standings with one less win in one fewer game played, placing them firmly in the middle of the American League West standings.

Detroit, on the other hand, is knotted up with the Cleveland Guardians atop the AL Central Division, both at an even 16-16 mark. It is still early in the season — summer has not even arrived yet — but it feels good to see the Motor City Kitties on top of things regardless of the time of year.

More good news: the Tigers are a tidy 10-2 at home so far this season against a brutal 6-14 record on the road; on the other hand, they are just 5-6 against fellow AL foes, but all five wins did come within the comfortable confines of Comerica Park.

So it seems that the odds are stacked in favor of the Olde English D, which hopefully bodes well for Friday night’s starter, right-hander Jack Flaherty, who has struggled significantly over his last two appearances – both notably on the road. The last time he faced Texas was last year on May 10, when he gave up five runs on four hits (all four home runs!) and two walks while striking out four over three innings in the loss.

For the visitors, left-hander MacKenzie Gore will climb the hill for his first appearance against the Tigers as a Ranger. The 27-year-old has struggled mightily over his last three starts, posting a 6.14 ERA and 5.50 FIP over 14 2/3 innings — a stretch that saw him allow 16 hits (three home runs) and 10 walks while striking out a whopping 17 batters.

The last time Gore saw the Tigers was last summer with the Washington Nationals on July 2, in which he threw 5 1/3 frames of two-run ball on three hits and four walks, along with two strikeouts in his team’s victory.

Take a look below at their respective season numbers ahead of Friday night’s fracas.

Detroit Tigers (16-16) vs. Texas Rangers (15-16)

Time (ET): 6:40 p.m.
Place: Comerica Park, Detroit, Michigan
SB Nation Site:Lone Star Ball
Media: Detroit SportsNet, MLB.TV, Tigers Radio Network

Game 33: RHP Jack Flaherty (0-2, 5.33 ERA) vs. LHP MacKenzie Gore (2-2, 4.35 ERA)

FLAHERTY

GORE

As a new month dawns, the Phillies find themselves back to winning ways. A trip to Miami is up next.

Onto the links.

Phillies news:

Nothing is new under the sun, including winning both games of a doubleheader on walk offs. But it’s been a while.

Don Mattingly is making his mark on the team.

What do you do when your game is rained out? Watch the Flyers take down Pittsburgh, that’s what. ($)

MLB news:

Whenever someone ties Ted Williams in anything, you can be sure they’re doing something impressive.

Jeff Passan gives his early thoughts on the MLB campaign.

MLB.com looks at the top 150 Draft prospects.

Myles Murphy started to show some life late last season, which is why it was a bit of a surprise when the Cincinnati Bengals decided against exercising his fifth-year option.

But, according to de facto GM Duke Tobin, that doesn’t mean they are looking to move on.

“He’s a 24-year-old guy that’s just starting to scratch the surface,” Tobin said in a press conference, per Bengals.com. “He’s a guy that we believe in. He’s going to be a big part of what Al [Golden] and his staff does… The organization believes in Myles and will continue to explore a long-term relationship.“

So why didn’t they just keep him around?

Here’s what Geoff Hobson wrote:

About half of Murphy’s fellow 2023 first-rounders haven’t had their fifth years exercised as the Bengals hope to take that $14 million option and convert it into a better salary cap fit for upcoming seasons.

Since the Bengals locked up their premier offensive weapons to long-term contracts in 2025 and now have a hefty sum dedicated to a well-stocked defense, the front office appears to be prioritizing the flexibility associated with a future extension over the more rigid fifth-year option number.

That makes sense in general, and it especially makes sense after the Bengals really pushed themselves to their spending limit this offseason with the trade for Dexter Lawrence.

We talked about the change in approach to spending of Duke Tobin and Katie Blackburn in our recent show.

The countdown to the 2026 World Cup is on! Each day ahead of the tournament’s return to North America, Yahoo Sports will highlight an insight or moment that showcases just how grand the world’s biggest sporting spectacle has become — even beyond the expanded field of this year’s global event.

The final knockout round spot from Group A at the 1998 World Cup was on the line during the last group stage matches. Norway had two points, while Morocco and Scotland sat on one point with Brazil easily winning the group after two victories. It was all up for grabs with a date against Italy in the Round of 16 on the line.

It was looking quite comfortable for Morocco, which built a 2-0 lead on Scotland early in the second half after goals from Salaheddine Bassir and Abdeljalil Hadda. Bassir would add a third in the 85th minute to ensure the win and put Morocco on four points. Over in Marseille, Norway faced a tall task after Bebeto beat Frode Grodås to put Brazil up 1-0 in the 78th minute. Norway needed to win with Morocco cruising in their match.

In the 83rd minute, Tore André Flo delivered a lifeline with his only goal of the tournament. The live table with 12 minutes to play read:

• 2nd: Morocco, 4 points

• 3rd: Norway, 3 points

One more goal was needed for Norway to leap-frog Morocco.

Flo wouldn’t score again, but he played a role in the dramatic finish. Júnior Baiano pulled down the Norway striker, causing referee Esfandiar Baharmast to call a late penalty kick.

Up stepped Kjetil Rekdal, who beat Cláudio Taffarel to put Norway up 2-1 in the dying moments of the match.

Norway hung on in stoppage time to secure the win and take the second spot in the group and advance to the Round of 16.

Norway will participate in its fourth-ever World Cup this summer. It has reached the Round of 16 on two previous occasions and only failed to advance in 1994 after all four teams in its group finished with four points, but missed out on a goals scored tiebreaker.

Triple-A: Syracuse Mets (16-13)

GAME 1: SYRACUSE 7, LEHIGH VALLEY 0 (BOX)

Jack Wenninger bounced back very nicely from a relatively bat outing in his previous start, as he struck out seven, walked one, gave up just four hits, and didn’t allow any runs in five-and-two-thirds innings. By the standards of minor league pitching development, that’s practically a complete game—especially in a seven-inning game that takes place as part of a doubleheader.

A.J. Ewing remained red hot with a pair of hits, a stolen base, and a a stolen base, and he made a pair of diving catches in center field, to boot. Christian Arroyo and Ji Hwan Bae each had three hits. Syracuse’s early runs were helped significantly by a Lehigh Valley throwing error, but the team kept piling on in an easy win.

• CF A.J. Ewing: 2-4, 2 R, SB
• RF Nick Morabito: 0-3, R, K
• LF Ryan Clifford: 0-3, BB, 2 K
• 1B Christian Arroyo: 3-4, R, RBI, K
• 3B Vidal Bruján: 1-3, 2 R, 2B, 2 RBI, SB
• 2B Ji Hwan Bae: 3-3, R, 2B, RBI
• DH Cristian Pache: 0-1
• C Hayden Senger: 1-3, 2 RBI, K
• SS Jackson Cluff: 0-3, K
• P Jack Wenninger: 5.2 IP, 4 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 7 K
• P Jonathan Pintaro: 1.1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 2 K

GAME 2: SYRACUSE 4, LEHIGH VALLEY 3 (BOX)

Not to be outdone by his own performance in the first game of the doubleheader, A.J. Ewing picked up two more hits in the second game and score a run. He’s hitting .583 with a 1.448 OPS since his recent promotion to Triple-A. This game was much closer than the first one, but the team scored just enough runs to outpace the runs allowed by its pitching staff in a bullpen game.

• RF A.J. Ewing: 2-4, R
• DH Nick Morabito: 1-3, R, 2B, RBI, K, SB
• 1B Ryan Clifford: 0-4, 3 K
• SS Vidal Bruján: 2-4, R, 2B, RBI, K
• CF Ji Hwan Bae: 2-4, R, 2B, RBI, K, SB
• LF Cristian Pache: 0-3, 3 K
• 2B Yonny Hernández: 1-4, K
• C Ben Rortvedt: 1-4, RBI, K
• 3B Jackson Cluff: 0-3, K
• P Daniel Duarte: 2.0 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 2 K
• P Dan Hammer: 2.0 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 1 K
• P Ryan Lambert: 1.0 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 1 K
• P Dylan Ross: 0.2 IP, 1 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 2 BB, 1 K
• P Alex Carrillo: 1.1 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 4 K
• P Mike Baumann: 2.0 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 2 K

Double-A: Binghamton Rumble Ponies (9-15)

BINGHAMTON 6, NEW HAMPSHIRE 3 (BOX)

Five Binghamton pitchers held New Hampshire to three runs, and six different Rumble Ponies drove in the team’s six runs. Kevin Parada had one of his best days at the palte in a while with three hits, one of which was a double.

• RF Eli Serrano III: 1-3, R, RBI, 2 BB, K
• LF Chris Suero: 0-4, R, RBI, BB, 2 K
• DH Jose Ramos: 1-5, R, RBI, 2 K
• C Kevin Parada: 3-5, R, 2B, RBI, K, SB
• 3B Nick Lorusso: 1-4, BB, 2 K
• 1B TT Bowens: 2-5, 2 2B, 2 K, SB
• CF Matt Rudick: 0-2, RBI, 2 BB, K
• SS Wyatt Young: 0-1, R, RBI, 2 BB, K
• 2B Diego Mosquera: 1-4, R, 2 K, SB
• P Brendan Girton: 4.0 IP, 7 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 0 BB, 3 K
• P Zach Peek: 1.0 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 1 K
• P Matt Turner: 2.0 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 2 BB, 4 K
• P Douglas Orellana: 1.0 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 2 K
• P Ben Simon: 1.0 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 0 BB, 1 K

High-A: Brooklyn Cyclones (6-17)

BROOKLYN 2, FREDERICK 1 (BOX)

After five scoreless innings from Cyclones starter Irving Cota, Brooklyn gave up a run in the top of the sixth, but an RBI double from Kevin Villavicencio tied the game in the bottom of the seventh. In the bottom of the eighth, shortstop Antonio Jimenez manufactured a run as he singled, advanced to second on a wild pitch, advanced to third on a ground out, and scored when Frederick tried to catch him off third base, prompting him to break for home plate and score what wound up being the game-deciding run in the process.

• SS Antonio Jimenez: 1-4, R, K, SB
• CF John Bay: 1-4, 2B, K
• DH Ronald Hernandez: 0-4, 3 K
• C Daiverson Gutierrez: 1-4, R, 2B, E
• 3B Colin Houck: 0-3, K
• 1B Trace Willhoite: 0-1, BB, K
• LF Vincent Perozo: 0-3, K
• 2B Kevin Villavicencio: 2-3, 2 2B, RBI
• RF Yohairo Cuevas: 0-3, 2 K
• P Irving Cota: 5.0 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 2 BB, 3 K
• P Cristofer Gomez: 2.0 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 1 BB, 3 K
• P Dakota Hawkins: 2.0 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 2 K

Single-A: St. Lucie Mets (10-14)

TAMPA 8, ST. LUCIE 5 (BOX)

R.J. Gordon, who had a solid season last year in Brooklyn and Binghamton, is working his way back from a lat injury and got roughed up in this one. He has a 43.20 ERA in Single-A through two appearances that have seen him throw just one-and-two-thirds innings in total.

At the plate, Elian Peña continued to impress, and with his two-hit night, he has a .353 average and a .949 OPS to start his first stateside season. He wasn’t the only St. Lucie Met with a multi-hit night, as Randy Guzman and AJ Salgado each hit a home run on a two-hit night, and Sam Robertson had a three-hit night with a stolen base.

• SS Elian Peña: 2-4, 2 R, K, SB
• LF JT Benson: 0-4, RBI, K
• 1B Randy Guzman: 2-3, R, HR, RBI, 2 BB
• C Julio Zayas: 1-5, K
• RF AJ Salgado: 2-4, 2 R, HR, RBI
• CF Simon Juan: 0-4, 2 K
• DH Jamari Baylor: 0-3, BB, 2 K
• 2B Sam Robertson: 3-4, RBI, SB
• 3B Branny De Oleo: 0-4
• P R.J. Gordon: 1.1 IP, 4 H, 5 R, 5 ER, 0 BB, 2 K
• P Tyler McLoughlin: 1.2 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 3 K
• P Joel Lara: 3.0 IP, 2 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 2 BB, 2 K
• P Joe Scarborough: 2.0 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 2 BB, 0 K

Rookie: FCL Mets (0-0)

NO GAME (SCHEDULE)

STARS OF THE NIGHT

Jack Wenninger and A.J. Ewing

GOAT OF THE NIGHT

R.J. Gordon

Which UDFAs could make Dallas Cowboys roster? Ranking players with the best shot – Joseph Hoyt, The Dallas Morning News

Which UDFA’s could fight for a roster spot and playing time in 2026?

No. 1 Baylor TE Michael Trigg

Trigg’s talent is certainly evident. The 6-4 tight end looks like a basketball player on grass. He has a greater than 7-foot wingspan — a mark that’s not only rare, but one that’s earned a nickname around Waco. Trigg said people will say he has “go-go-gadget” arms like the character Inspector Gadget. Trigg uses those arms, too. He made plenty of spectacular catches during a five-year career at USC, Ole Miss and eventually Baylor. He had 14 touchdowns in his career, including six last season. He was rated as a potential fifth-round prospect, according to The Athletic. 

Of course, players are always available after the draft for a reason. He’ll have to show throughout the offseason that he’s not only athletic, but he can be diligent, too, and act like a professional on the field and in practice. If he can, and if he can make spectacular catches in Oxnard like he did in college, then expect him to push for a tight end spot on the 53-man roster. 

Cowboys player named top 30 pick, Round 3 steal by ESPN – Matthew Lenix, Blogging the Boys

The Jaishawn Barham hive is growing.

The name of the game for the Dallas Cowboys in the 2026 NFL Draft was defense, and they specifically nailed it in the first three rounds. After taking safety Caleb Downs and edge Malachi Lawrence in round one, the Cowboys selected linebacker/edge Jaishawn Barham out of Michigan in round three after not having a second-round pick.

Dallas could have tried to finagle a second-rounder with one of the fourth-round picks they got from the Philadelphia Eagles when they moved back to No. 23 from No. 20 and took Lawrence. However, they stayed and got Barham, and Matt Miller of ESPN loves that they did. He ranks Barham as the 30th best pick of the entire draft.

Good luck dealing with the Cowboys when they get into nickel defense with Downs in the box and Barham coming off the edge. A former linebacker at Michigan, he made the move to edge rusher in 2025 and was fantastic. Playing in a pro-level scheme under former NFL defensive coordinator Wink Martindale, Barham thrived after making the position change in Week 3, with 10 tackles for loss and four sacks. Getting Barham in Round 2 would have been a hit, but drafting him at the back end of Round 3 is a steal.

Caleb Downs Reacts to Being Drafted by Cowboys in New Behind-the-Scenes Video – Zach Bachar, Bleacher Report

New footage has come out from Caleb Downs draft day experience.

Former Ohio State safety Caleb Downs’ behind-the-scenes reaction to being selected by the Dallas Cowboys with the No. 11 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft has been revealed.

In a video posted by the YouTube channel for his Downs 2 Business podcast, Downs received a call from the Cowboys that he was getting drafted before celebrating with his family, friends and teammates (13:00 mark).

Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day and defensive coordinator Matt Patricia also congratulated him (14:20 mark).

Dallas initially held the No. 12 pick in the draft, but traded up to select Downs in a swap with the Miami Dolphins.

It’s easy to see why the Cowboys were focused on landing the 21-year-old, as he’s coming off an impressive junior season at Ohio State.

Downs racked up 68 tackles, five tackles for loss, two interceptions and two forced fumbles in 14 games during his 2025 campaign while finishing No. 9 in Heisman Trophy voting.

He allowed a mere 46.5 passer rating when targeted, according to Pro Football Focus.

Dee Winters on joining Cowboys: ‘This is a huge year for me’ – Tommy Yarrish, DallasCowboys.com

Dee Winters introduces himself to Cowboys Nation.

FRISCO, Texas – Dee Winters was moving into his new home in Arlington, Texas last Friday night when he got a call from Cowboys COO/co-owner Stephen Jones.

Dallas traded a fifth-round pick to the 49ers for Winters, who had just wrapped up his third NFL season in San Francisco.

“Honestly, I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised quite a bit…” Winters said of the news. “I definitely didn’t have any plans on being traded. But everything happens for a reason, I’m excited that I’m back home and I get to play for the Dalals Cowboys.”

Winters, a Texas native who played college football at TCU, had the most productive season of his NFL career in 2025, starting all 17 games for the 49ers and posting 101 tackles, eight tackles for loss, five pass breakups and a pick-six.

“I think just the attention to detail last year, and just kind of understanding what offenses like to do,” Winters said of what sparked his career-best year in 2025. “I feel like I started to pick up on it more as I got reps. Just that experience each and every game getting better and trying to use that motto, I think that really helped me have a decent year last year.”

COWBOYS 3–4 DEFENSIVE DEPTH CHART PREDICTION – Cody Warren, InsidetheStar.com

How will the Cowboys base defense look with all the new faces?

Now that the offense is finished, we will take a look at what I think the defensive depth chart will look like at the start of the 2026 season.

I’m building this around a base 3–4 defense, and that change will affect how I look at the entire depth chart. This will be about figuring out where the players fit the scheme, who gives Dallas some position flex and helps this defense progress.

In a 3–4, the Cowboys will need size up front, athleticism at linebacker, and defensive backs who can move around. Some players fit cleaner than others, and a few roster decisions are going to be tougher than people think.

Again, players that are bold and blue are projected for my 53-man roster on the defensive side.
In a base 3–4, I want size, power, and versatility up front.

Quinnen Williams and Keny Clark give Dallas strength and pass rush at the end position. They can also move up and down the line much like the rest of the defensive end depth chart and take pressure off the linebackers.

Jonathan Bullard makes the roster because I like having a veteran body who can handle different jobs across the front. LT Overton is the kind of young defensive lineman I want to keep around because he has the size and upside to grow into a big role.

Kelvin Gilliam Jr., DJ Withers, and Tommy Dunn Jr. are not on the 53, but they are all players I would consider for the practice squad. Out of that group, I would really try to keep Dunn in the building as a developmental lineman.

The Washington Commanders are entering a critical offseason in 2026, and needed an infusion of youth, talent, and some luck as they try to bounce back from a 5-12 season. The second year of Adam Peters’ “recalibration” of the roster started with sky-high expectations after an NFC Championship Game appearance the year before. A Terry McLaurin hold-in, along with injuries to multiple starters made for a miserable season, but with the NFL draft over, it’s time to get an idea of where Washington stands.

The Commanders used free agency to make massive changes to the defense, along with firing defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr, and replacing him with Daronte Jones. That focus on defense continued with their first pick in this year’s draft, Ohio State LB Sonny Styles.

Washington also made major changes on the offensive side of the ball. There were reportedly issues with former offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury’s use of personnel/playcalling last season, which was amplified by injuries to major players like Jayden Daniels and Terry McLaurin. David Blough took over the reigns from his former boss, and is expected to make significant changes to the offense, and help mold Daniels into a more complete NFL QB. He also got some help in free agency with players like TE Chig Okonkwo and RB Rachaad White. Adam Peters used Washington’s second pick in the draft(3rd round) on WR Antonio Williams.

Washington ranks as high as #15 with high praise for this year’s free agency and draft classes. The other side of the spectrum has them ranked as low as #26, but with expectations to bounce back from last year’s disappointing results.

• Winning the Super Bowl odds: +4,500
• Winning the NFC Odds: +2,200
• Winning the NFC East Odds: +410
• To Make the Playoffs: Make +190, Miss -230
• Jayden Daniels MVP Odds: +2,000
• Washington Commanders Win Total O/U: Over 7.5(-135), Under 7.5(+115)

High: 15

Low: 26

Average: 22.3

#15

Pro Football Network (Infante)

Coming off a disappointing 2025, the Washington Commanders needed some major upgrades to their roster in free agency. So far, they’ve been able to do exactly that. Most of their moves have come on defense, having signed the likes of Odafe Oweh, K’Lavon Chaisson, Leo Chenal, Nick Cross, Tim Settle, and Amik Robertson.

Despite not having picks in the second or fourth rounds, the Commanders came away with the top-graded draft class by PFSN’s NFL Draft HQ. Sonny Styles and Antonio Williams should start right away for Washington, while Day 3 picks like Joshua Josephs, Kaytron Allen, and Matt Gulbin were all great value selections where they got drafted.

#20

SB Nation

#21

Sporting News (Iyer)

The Commanders went strong for Sonny Styles at linebacker and Antonio Williams at wide receiver, addressing two key needs with changing coordinators on both sides of the ball. They also need Kaytron Allen to boost the running game for Jayden Daniels, who needs to have a healthy season for the Commanders to surprise again.

The Big Lead (Antoine)

Drafted defense-first with real intent and tried to raise the unit’s athletic floor – the only problem is they still need the offense to be competent.

Barstool Sports

A lot of this comes down to having faith in Jayden Daniels. The trio of him, Bill and Terry are super solid. Add Okonkwo to that offense and I like what I see. I feel they overpaid for Odafe Oweh (he was a great in-season trade for my Chargers but I don’t see the vision there) but, if he performs at the same level as the end of last year, that front 7 could be dangerous. The bigger issue is that they just don’t have a lot of picks top to work with. They face the NFCW and AFCS. 

Their defense took a major step back last year and Styles is an immediate upgrade. Every team needs a hyper-dynamic guy like that. Antonio Williams should also help their depleted WR room and give Jayden something to work with. I think this team has improved but they still have problems, the Eagles aren’t going anywhere and the Cowboys/Giants are getting better. 

#22

Sharp Football Analysis (Summerlin)

Sonny Styles was a great get for Washington, even if they might have rather landed Mansoor Delane, and I am a fan of Antonio Williams both as a player and how he can complement Terry McLaurin.

The Score

There was a huge gap between the Commanders’ first two picks (Nos. 7 and 71), but they were able to combine need, best talent available, and value. Washington landed inside linebacker Sonny Styles in Round 1 and later added much-needed help at wide receiver in the form of the overlooked Antonio Williams in the third round.

New York Post (Selby)

Rookie LB Sonny Styles completes an extensive defensive upgrade while a healthy Jayden Daniels needs a bounceback season from WR Terry McLaurin.

#23

USA Today (Davis)

Even if they get a full season of QB Jayden Daniels, does he have enough weaponry around him offensively?

Fox Sports (Vacchiano)

Dan Quinn fell in love with Ohio State LB Sonny Styles, and that’s great. But what this team needed most was offensive playmakers. They got Clemson WR Antonio Williams in the third, but they needed more, plus more help on the offensive line.

#24

NFL.com (Edholm)

The Commanders entered the draft with just six picks (two in the top 100) to try to check a lot of boxes. They were looking to butter both sides of the bread — getting more help for Jayden Daniels while attempting to add more firepower on defense — and they did fairly well with what they had, I suppose. Hyper-athletic LB Sonny Styles felt like a strong pick and should start immediately. I am not anti-Antonio Williams, but I do wonder whether he’s the type of receiver Washington needed most. On the positive side, I felt like both edge Joshua Josephs and RB Kaytron Allen were strong picks where the Commanders got them. On the whole, this class only moved the needle so much, and Daniels’ re-emergence holds the key to a bounce-back season.

#26

The Athletic (Kendall)

Best rookie season: Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State

The seventh overall pick is going to excel in Daronte Jones’ defense, where he’ll start right out of the gate. The 6-5, 244-pound former safety will do a little bit of everything for the Commanders and should fill up the stat sheet.

CBS Sports (Prisco)

They are coming off a down year, but Jayden Daniels is back healthy and they added some good pieces in free agency and the draft. There have been a lot of changes in the offseason, including their coordinators.

Bleacher Report

The Washington Commanders are positioned to rebound from a disappointing and injury-plagued 2025 campaign.

The Commanders have taken significant steps to improve a defense that ranked dead last in yards allowed last season. They hired a new defensive coordinator in Daronte Jones and added the likes of Odafe Oweh, Nick Cross, K’Lavon Chaisson, Tim Settle, and rookie first-round pick Sonny Styles.

Despite adding Rachaad White, Jerome Ford and Antonio Williams, Washington could use more depth at running back and receiver. However, the offense should be just fine if Jayden Daniels can stay healthy in 2026.

FTN Fantasy (Kelley)

The Commanders ended last season 5-12, but they started 3-2. Things just fell apart. The team’s talented enough that it could bounce back in 2026.

Where should the Commanders be ranked? Let us know in the comments.

Manchester United are targeting Paris Saint-Germain boss Luis Enrique as an alternative to Michael Carrick to take the managerial role at Old Trafford on a full-time basis, The Times understands. The Spaniard is one of only a small number of ‘elite’ candidates who could prevent the former England international midfielder from landing the role permanently. 

Carrick has impressed since he got the role at Manchester United on an interim basis. The Red Devils have won 9 of the 13 matches that the former Middlesbrough boss has taken charge of. His impressive start has seen the Mancunian outfit rise to third in the Premier League table. 

Would Luis Enrique be interested in moving to Manchester United?

Despite the interest from the English giants, the former Spain international head coach seems content in the French capital. The Times reports that Luis Enrique is happy at the Parc des Princes, and the prospect of managing at Old Trafford is unlikely to change that. 

GFFN | Liam Wraith

Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders: W, 5-4 (10) vs. Buffalo Bisons

SS George Lombard Jr. 1-3, 2 BB, K, CS, picked off — antsy on the basepaths, but on base three times in Triple-A debut
CF Spencer Jones 1-5, 3 K
RF Yanquiel Fernández 2-5, RBI, K
3B Oswaldo Cabrera 2-3, 2 BB
DH Seth Brown 0-4, BB, 3 K
1B Ernesto Martinez Jr. 2-5, HR, RBI, 2 K
C Ali Sánchez 2-5
LF Duke Ellis 1-4, 3B, BB, K
2B Jonathan Ornelas 2-5, 2 RBI, K

Carlos Lagrange 4.1 IP, 3 H, 2 R, 3 BB, 4 K
Hanner 2.2 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 4 K
D Coleman 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 1 K (hold)
Kervin Castro 2 IP, 3 H, 2 R, 0 BB, 0 K (blown save, win) — blew two-run lead in ninth but held on in extras

Double-A Somerset Patriots: W, 9-6 vs. Portland Sea Dogs

RF Jace Avina 2-5, RBI, 2 K
DH Garrett Martin 3-5, 2 HR, 4 RBI
2B Marco Luciano 1-4, 3 K
1B Coby Morales 1-5, HR, 3 RBI, K — sixth homer of the year was a walk-off
3B Tyler Hardman 2-4, 2 K
LF DJ Gladney 1-3, BB, K, SB
CF Kenedy Corona 0-4, 3 K
C Miguel Palma 0-1, 2 BB, K
SS Owen Cobb 1-3, 2B, RBI, K, SAC, throwing error

Carlos Rodón 5.1 IP, 5 H, 1 R, 0 BB, 8 K, 1 HR — very sharp, up to 75 pitches (51 strikes)
Miguel Arias 0.2 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 1 K
Xavier Rivas 3 IP, 3 H, 5 R (4 ER), 2 BB, 6 K, 2 HR — blew the save up two in the ninth, but prevailed anyway

High-A Hudson Valley Renegades: L, 4-3 at Jersey Shore BlueClaws

DH Eric Genther 0-1, BB, K, HBP
PH Cole Gabrielson 0-1, HBP
SS Core Jackson 4-5, K
1B Kyle West 1-5, 2 RBI, K
3B Roderick Arias 1-5, K
RF Wilson Rodriguez 0-3, RBI, BB, K
LF Josh Moylan 1-4, 2B, 3 K
CF Camden Troyer 0-4
C Josue Gonzalez 1-3, BB, CS
2B Connor McGinnis 1-3, K, fielding error

Allen Facundo 4 IP, 1 H, 2 R, 4 BB, 7 K
Tanner Bauman 2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 1 K
Hansel Rincon 1 IP, 0 H, 2 R (0 ER), 1 BB, 1 K (loss)
Jackson Fristoe 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K

Kyle West brings home Cole Gabrielson to tie things up at 2 in the top of the 7th! pic.twitter.com/SmJNQFxr58

— Hudson Valley Renegades (@HVRenegades) May 1, 2026

Low-A Tampa Tarpons: W, 8-5 vs. St. Lucie Mets

CF Luis Durango 1-3, 2B, BB, 2 SB
SS Jackson Lovich 2-4, 2B, RBI, 2 K
3B Enmanuel Tejeda 1-4, 2 RBI, SB
LF Brando Mayea 2-4, HR, 2 RBI, K, SB
DH Willy Montero 0-3, BB, K, CS
2B Bryce Martin-Grudzielanek 1-3, BB, K
RF JoJo Jackson 1-2, 2 BB, K
C Ediel Rivera 1-3
1B Hans Montero 0-3, BB, K

Justin West 4 IP, 7 H, 4 R (3 ER), 2 BB, 3 K, 1 HR
Greysen Carter 3 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K (win)
Jordarlin Mendoza 1.2 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 1 BB, 2 K, 1 HR

Florida Complex League Yankees: Season begins on May 2nd vs. FCL Tigers

The Big Ten is shaping up to be as deep and unpredictable as it’s been in years, and with spring ball in the rearview, we’ve got a better feel for rosters, key contributors and where things might be headed.

Here’s how things could shake out in 2026.

Purdue: 4-8

Purdue still feels like a program trying to find traction. Barry Odom has work to do reshaping the roster, and the schedule doesn’t exactly do them any favors. The Boilermakers get Notre Dame in non-conference play, then draw Indiana and Washington as two of their tougher Big Ten games. There are some more manageable games up for grabs against teams like Maryland, Wisconsin and UCLA, but Purdue may have to steal a couple of those just to climb toward four wins.  

Northwestern: 4-8

Northwestern’s schedule is brutal. The Wildcats have to play Indiana, Oregon and Ohio State all on the road, which is about as unforgiving as it gets. Even with the addition of Aidan Chiles providing some intrigue at quarterback, that path leaves very little room for error. Add in games against Penn State, Iowa, Minnesota and Illinois, and it’s hard to see Northwestern stacking enough wins to get to bowl eligibility.  

Maryland: 5-7

Maryland has enough returning experience to be interesting, especially with Malik Washington giving the Terps some upside at quarterback. The problem is the schedule — the Terps have road games at Nebraska, Ohio State and USC, plus home games against Virginia Tech, Illinois, Wisconsin and Penn State. There are wins available, but the middle and end of the schedule make it tough to envision a ceiling that’s much higher.

Rutgers: 5-7

Rutgers should get a chance to start fast with UMass, Boston College and Howard early, but things get tougher once Big Ten play settles in. Indiana, Michigan and USC all come to Piscataway, and then they have to go to Maryland, Wisconsin and Penn State. With Athan Kaliakmanis gone, even with Antwan Raymond and KJ Duff returning as important offensive pieces, the margin feels thin.

Minnesota: 6-6

Minnesota’s schedule feels manageable enough to get back to a bowl, but not easy enough to project a major jump. The Gophers avoid some of the absolute worst-case schedule draws, but the three biggest tests look like Indiana, Washington and Michigan, with two of those being away from home. A non-conference game against Mississippi State is also huge.  

UCLA: 6-6

UCLA has a chance to build early momentum with games against Cal, San Diego State and Nevada before the Big Ten grind really picks up. The issue is the top-end schedule — the Bruins go to Oregon and Michigan, while also getting USC at home. Nico Iamaleava gives them a real quarterback to build around, but they may need to win a couple of swing games against teams like Maryland, Wisconsin, Minnesota or Illinois to reach six.  

Michigan State: 6-6

Michigan State’s schedule has some real teeth. The Spartans go to Notre Dame in September, travel to UCLA, then later visit Michigan while also drawing Washington and Oregon. That’s a tough setup for Pat Fitzgerald’s first season in East Lansing. Still, if the Spartans handle Toledo, Eastern Michigan, Northwestern and Rutgers, they only need to find a couple Big Ten wins to reach bowl eligibility.

Wisconsin: 7-5

Wisconsin has one of the more favorable Big Ten schedules on paper. The Badgers miss Ohio State, Oregon, Michigan and Indiana, which is a massive break. The problem is Notre Dame looms in the non-conference, and USC is still a tough conference draw. Luke Fickell needs Colton Joseph and the offense to take a huge step, but the path is there for Wisconsin to be better than it was a year ago.

Nebraska: 7-5

Nebraska has a tricky path with draw Indiana, Oregon, Ohio State and Washington. The Cornhuskers then close the regular season at Iowa. That’s a lot to ask, even if the roster is improving. Nebraska should be competitive, but those ranked matchups are what keep this projection from moving higher.

Iowa: 8-4

Iowa’s schedule sets up for another solid season, but there are some clear trouble spots. The Hawkeyes host Iowa State early, then get games against Michigan, Washington and Ohio State. The swing games at Minnesota and Illinois may end up deciding whether this is a seven-win team or a nine-win team.

Indiana: 8-4

Indiana’s schedule is much tougher this time around. The Hoosiers get the Ohio State rematch on Oct. 17, host USC, and have road games at Michigan and Washington. That’s a difficult path, even with Curt Cignetti coming off a remarkable run. Josh Hoover gives Indiana a solid quarterback following Fernando Mendoza’s departure, but repeating last year’s level of success feels like a lot to ask.

Washington: 8-4

Washington is one of the more interesting teams in the league because the home schedule gives it a real chance to make noise. The Huskies get Indiana at home, and if Demond Williams Jr. takes a step at quarterback, that game could be a big one. The issue is the road slate, with trips to Oregon and USC standing out immediately, plus tricky games at Nebraska, Michigan State and Purdue.

USC: 9-3

USC has a playoff-caliber roster, but the schedule makes this far from automatic. The Trojans get Oregon, Ohio State and Washington at home, which helps, but they have to travel to Penn State, Wisconsin and Indiana. Jayden Maiava gives Lincoln Riley a proven quarterback, but the defense has to hold up against a schedule filled with heavyweights.

Penn State: 10-2

Penn State’s schedule is one of the biggest reasons to like the Nittany Lions this season. They avoid Indiana, Ohio State and Oregon, and get USC at home. The tougher spots still exist — Michigan and Washington are both on the road — but compared to other contenders, Matt Campbell has a very manageable path in year one.

Oregon: 10-2

Oregon’s schedule got a lot tougher. Washington and USC are back on the slate, and Ohio State and Michigan are both on there this year. There’s also a non-conference road game at Oklahoma State to consider. The final four-week stretch against Ohio State, Michigan, MSU and Washington could define the Ducks’ season. Dante Moore and a defense returning plenty of experience give Oregon enough to stay near the top, but that late run will be a real test.

Ohio State: 11-1

Ohio State has the best roster in the league, but it may also have the toughest schedule. The Buckeyes have games at Texas, Indiana, USC, Iowa and Nebraska, while Oregon and Michigan come to Columbus. That’s a brutal path, even for a team with Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith. Somewhere between 1-2 losses feels reasonable when you consider what this team will miss following the NFL Draft, but anything more would be a surprise.

Michigan: 9-3

Michigan’s schedule is one of the tougher ones in the Big Ten, and we’ll learn a lot about the Wolverines early. The Wolverines open against Western Michigan, but Oklahoma comes to Ann Arbor the following week. Big Ten play then starts vs Iowa, and the conference slate also includes Indiana, Penn State, Oregon and Ohio State.

That’s why nine wins feels like the right landing spot for now. Bryce Underwood’s development completely determines the ceiling, while Jordan Marshall and the defense should give Michigan a strong enough floor. On paper, the Wolverines are good enough to beat just about anyone on the schedule, but with this many high-end games, projecting three losses feels fair.

Greetings, Brew Crew Ball community. The Brewers are back on the road this weekend, as they’ll take a trip through D.C. and St. Louis to visit the Nationals and Cardinals for three games apiece.

Feel free to use this thread to chat about (almost) anything you want: video games, food, movies, non-baseball sports, the Brewers, you name it. As long as it’s appropriate and is allowed by our moderators, it’s fair game here.

You know the drill.

This is now an open thread:

With the Detroit Lions’ 2026 draft now nearly a full week in the rear-view mirror, it’s time for the Pride of Detroit staff to take inventory of what transpired. We’ve had time to read the scouting reports, listen to what Lions general manager Brad Holmes had to say about each pick, and do our own dive into the college film.

So over the next week, our staff will be sharing their thoughts on the Lions’ draft class in a roundtable-like discussion. To kick the series off, we’re going to talk about our favorite pick from the Lions’ NFL Draft.

And as a fun exercise, I’m going to include a link to last year’s answers to see how wrong/right we were.

2025: Best Detroit Lions draft pick discussion

What was your favorite pick from the Lions’ 2026 NFL Draft?

Ryan Mathews: Blake Miller

Miller was easily my favorite pick of the draft. Holmes didn’t have to sacrifice any future capital to bolster an offensive line that desperately needed to be improved after last season’s noticeable step back. Instead, he let the board come to him on Day 1, and when it did, Holmes drafted a player who fits in terms of both football character and play style.

Brandon Knapp: Blake Miller

Despite the rumors of the Lions liking Kadyn Proctor, he thankfully was off the board. For me, Miller was my 1B to Francis Mauigoa as my top twoo options in the first round. The OT spot was the most important position that needed to be addressed and the team taking one at 17 was music to my ears. I wanted the experience and consistency Miller brought.

John Whiticar: Blake Miller

There was some thought (fear?) that the Lions might get cute and pass on tackle in the first round. Instead, not only did the Lions get a perfect culture and scheme fit, they also did so without trading up from pick 17. Miller will technically battle Larry Borom for the right tackle spot, but it would be a major surprise if he doesn’t win it outright. For a team that just parted ways with Taylor Decker, adding Miller to the roster is just about a perfect way to replace—and potentially improve upon—the veteran. It was an easy and obvious choice, and the Lions went for it.

Erik Schlitt: Blake Miller

I haven’t been shy about my desire to see Miller in Honolulu Blue, as I believe he was a perfect combination of skill set, character, and need for the Lions at pick No. 17 in the first round. I firmly believe that the Lions have found the ideal replacement for Taylor Decker; a starting tackle who can deliver reliable production for the next 10 years.

Jeremy Reisman: Miller/Keith Abney

I discussed this earlier in Sunday’s Question of the Day. But in short: Miller was the most logical pick, and I’m glad the Lions stayed relatively patient and took him without spending extra draft capital—even if they tried. But more impressively, they may have gotten their future starting nickel in Abney all the way in the fifth round. For a team with minimal draft capital, landing a potential starter that late in a “thin” draft class should be considered a huge triumph. If the Lions are going to stay competitive long-term, it’s not just imperative they hit on the early picks, but they’ll need to find late-round steals and that’s exactly what Abney is.

Arsenal are preparing for another significant summer transfer window, with the Gunners expected to strengthen their attack once again despite making notable additions in 2025. The club remain committed to continuous improvement and is determined to ensure its squad remains competitive at the highest level.

The arrivals of Eberechi Eze and Viktor Gyokeres have already enhanced Arsenal’s attacking options, yet there is no indication that the club intend to slow down. Instead, they are actively seeking further reinforcements who can elevate the team’s overall quality and depth.

Arsenal identify key attacking targets

Arsenal continue to work diligently in the transfer market, aiming to secure some of the best players available. Their recruitment strategy reflects a desire to build a squad capable of competing consistently for major honours, with a focus on adding both quality and versatility in forward areas.

According to Fichajes, the club have identified Yan Diomande and Julian Alvarez as priority targets for the end of the season. Both attackers have emerged as highly regarded options, and Arsenal believe they could make a significant impact if brought into the squad.

Mikel Arteta is already working with a talented group of players, but there is a clear ambition within the club to go even further. Strengthening the attack remains a key objective, particularly as Arsenal look to maintain momentum and challenge on multiple fronts.

Financial commitment to major signings

The report adds that both Diomande and Alvarez are currently valued at €250 million. This represents a substantial financial outlay for just two players, underlining the scale of Arsenal’s ambitions in the transfer market.

Despite the considerable cost, the Gunners are reportedly undeterred and remain confident in their ability to secure both signings. Their willingness to invest heavily reflects a broader strategy of targeting elite talent, even when it requires significant resources.

In the coming weeks, Arsenal are expected to continue working behind the scenes to advance negotiations. The club will be keen to avoid losing out to rival European sides and will aim to position itself strongly in the race for both players ahead of the summer window.

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Pep Guardiola says Rodri is making good progress from his groin injury but added it is too early to say whether he could feature in Bank Holiday Monday’s Premier League trip to Everton.

Men's Team

City Magazine: May issue available to read now!

The City boss also provided the latest news on Ruben Dias ahead of what will be our first-ever trip to the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Spanish holding midfielder Rodri has missed City’s last two fixtures – a Premier League win at Burnley and our FA Cup semi-final win against Southampton – due to a groin problem sustained in last month’s 2-1 league win over Arsenal.

But addressing the media at Friday’s pre-match press conference, the City boss provided an encouraging update on the 2024 Ballon D’Or winner’s progress.

“He is getting better. Still he hasn’t trained so we will see in the next few days.

“Always I am confident.”

Men's Team

O'Reilly voted Etihad Player of the Month for April

Pep also provided the latest news on Dias, who has been absent with a thigh injury since mid-March, along with long-term absentee Josko Gvardiol.

“Ruben is not yet with the team. Him, Josko and Rodri are getting better,” Guardiola added.

Everton have enjoyed a fine season under the stewardship of David Moyes.

The Merseysiders are still in content for a place in Europe and Guardiola said he was anticipating the toughest of tests on what will be a maiden visit to the Toffees’ new ground.

But he said with Arsenal now three points ahead in the title race – and with the Gunners due to play Fulham on Saturday evening – only a victory would suffice as the Premier League title race comes to the boil.

“Always Everton have been tough,” Pep added.

“Old Everton was so cool and so British and I loved to go there but in the new stadium they are defending really well and always it has been tough.

“In recent weeks, Everton have had very good results and are fighting for a place in Europe.

“We won with two or three actions here but we were not good at that moment.

“We can’t have any result but win, win, win.”

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Holly Holm’s coach thinks the former champ would be interested in a second fight

Ronda Rousey is set to return to MMA, and while she says it will be her last run, a chance to settle old scores might give her something to think about.

Rousey’s comeback will happen on May 16, nearly 10 years after her last fight.

She’s taking on Gina Carano in the main event of Netflix’s debut MMA card, which also includes returns for Francis Ngannou and Nate Diaz.

Mike Winkeljohn backs Holm to repeat Rousey knockout

It’s been nine years since Holly Holm knocked out Ronda Rousey at UFC 193, a win that ended one of the most dominant title runs in MMA history. Now, talk of a rematch is starting to gain traction.

Rousey is returning to action under Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions, where she’s also looking to step into an executive role after her fight with Gina Carano. Holm, meanwhile, joined MVP after resuming her boxing career following her departure from the UFC.

If both fighters continue along their current paths, there may be an opportunity for them to meet again down the line. And according to Winkeljohn, Holm would have no hesitation about repeating what she did back in 2015.

“That would be perfect,” Winkeljohn said on Submission Radio. “Ronda’s with MVP, Holly’s fighting for MVP. She’s fighting for the 135-pound world title at the end of May.”

“Afterwards, there’s no doubt Holly would love to fight Ronda again. Do it all over again. Do the same thing to her. I’d love to do it all over again,” he added.

While Rousey prepares for her fight against Carano, Holm is getting ready for another familiar opponent inside the boxing ring.

MVP quickly organised a rematch between Holm and Han which will go down in El Paso, Texas on May 30.

Read more:

Dua Lipa has reportedly declined an offer to perform at the super-fight between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua later this year.

This week, it was announced that Fury and Joshua have signed a contract to fight one another at long last, although no date or location was confirmed for the all-British heavyweight clash.

Instead, it was announced that “AJ”, 36, will box relative unknown Kristian Prenga in Saudi Arabia on 25 July, before fighting Fury later in 2026 – likely in the UK this autumn, possibly at Wembley Stadium, and almost certainly on Netflix.

Fury, 37, also wants a warm-up bout, despite having competed just three weeks ago, when he eased past Arslanbek Makhmudov at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

And there has been another moving part, it seems, with Saudi matchmaker Turki Alalshikh expressing a keen desire for British pop star Dua Lipa to be part of the Joshua vs Fury event.

Sky Sports even reported that Alalshikh had threatened to pull the plug on the fight if the “Levitating” and “Don’t Start Now” singer would not take part – although the alleged claim certainly could have been made in jest.

In any case, the BBC has now reported that Dua Lipa, 30, was approached to feature at the event, and that the three-time Grammy winner declined.

If a replacement can be found, it will not be the first time a musical act has performed at a fight with Saudi involvement. For example, Eminem performed a set before Terence Crawford beat Israil Madrimov in 2024, and later that year, Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher did the same before Joshua was stopped by Daniel Dubois.

As well as the afore-mentioned songs, Dua Lipa counts “Dance The Night”, “Houdini” and “Training Season” among her most-popular tracks. She also collaborated with Elton John on the hit song “Cold Heart”, and with Calvin Harris on the hugely-successful “One Kiss”.

Real Madrid are going through a period of tumult after yet another season without any major trophies, with some notable changes expected in the coming weeks.

It will start with the appointment of a new manager to take over from Alvaro Arbeloa, with several names being considered by the club hierarchy.

Prominent figures such as Jurgen Klopp and Jose Mourinho are heavily linked, along with some unexpected names, such as Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni.

Real Madrid have asked about Scaloni

Indeed, according to Rodra of ESPN, Real Madrid are indeed looking at Scaloni and have made enquiries about the 2022 World Cup-winning manager.

However, at the moment, there have been no negotiations between the Spanish capital club and the 47-year-old tactician.

The Argentine has never been in charge of a club, let alone one of the size of Real Madrid. His only experience at club-level was the assistant manager’s job he held at Sevilla in the 2016/17 season.

Lionel Scaloni is on Real Madrid’s shortlist. (Photo by Marcos Brindicci/Getty Images)

After that, Scaloni has been fully with the Argentina national team, initially working as the assistant manager before eventually taking over as the main man in charge a few months after the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Since then, the 47-year-old has been able to take La Albiceleste back to the top, winning the World Cup as well as two Copa America titles.

Scaloni, therefore, happens to be a name on Real Madrid’s shortlist, but there has been nothing beyond initial enquiries made with regard to a move for him.

One issue for Real Madrid with Scaloni would be the fact that he will be coaching Argentina at the World Cup this summer, but the club are keen to bring in someone who can take over immediately.

So, as per the report, other names such as such as Didier Deschamps, Massimiliano Allegri, and even Unai Emery are also being considered.

Burnley managerial vacancy sparks fresh debate

Relegation has a way of stripping a club back to its essentials, and at Burnley the process has already begun. The departure of Scott Parker, confirmed by mutual consent, leaves Turf Moor in a familiar yet uncomfortable position. A reset is required, but the identity of the next architect remains uncertain.

Parker’s exit followed a season that unravelled quickly after promotion. Just four league wins told their own story, and the inevitability of the drop was confirmed with weeks still to play. In a club statement, Burnley said: “Scott Parker has left his position as head coach of Burnley Football Club by mutual consent. The club would like to place on record its sincere thanks to Scott for his professionalism, dedication and contribution.”

There is gratitude, but little time for sentiment. With the 2026 to 2027 campaign already looming, Burnley must act decisively in appointing a manager capable of rebuilding both confidence and competitiveness.

Photo: IMAGO

Bellamy emerges as early contender

Attention has quickly shifted to Craig Bellamy, a name that carries both intrigue and risk. According to reports originating from The Telegraph, Bellamy is considered an early contender for the Burnley job, though complications remain.

Currently involved with the Wales national setup, Bellamy is under contract for two more years and has expressed a clear ambition to guide his country into Euro 2028, a tournament set to open in Cardiff. That commitment may prove a significant obstacle.

Still, the appeal is evident. Bellamy’s playing career was defined by intensity and intelligence, traits he has sought to transfer into coaching. His time at Liverpool, across two separate spells, offered glimpses of his sharp football mind. He was capable of decisive moments, none more so than his performance against Barcelona in 2007, a night that hinted at a deeper tactical awareness.

Burnley, in their current state, require precisely that blend of edge and organisation. Bellamy represents a modern coaching voice, albeit one yet to fully establish himself at club level.

Gerrard remains in conversation

Alongside Bellamy, Steven Gerrard has also been linked with the Burnley vacancy. Gerrard’s managerial journey has been uneven, yet his pedigree ensures he remains a figure of interest whenever roles of this nature arise.

His success at Rangers demonstrated his capacity to build a winning side, while subsequent experiences have offered lessons in resilience and adaptation. For Burnley, appointing Gerrard would signal ambition, but also a willingness to embrace a project that may require patience.

There is a symmetry in considering both Bellamy and Gerrard. Former Liverpool teammates, both driven and fiercely competitive, now find themselves at crossroads in their managerial careers. Burnley could offer either man a platform to reassert their credentials.

Challenges ahead for Burnley rebuild

Whoever takes charge will inherit a squad in need of reshaping and a fanbase seeking reassurance. The task is not merely about promotion, but about restoring a sense of direction.

Burnley’s recent history complicates matters. Parker’s predecessor delivered a remarkable promotion campaign, including a lengthy unbeaten run and defensive solidity that bordered on the exceptional. Yet the transition to Premier League level exposed structural weaknesses that must now be addressed.

Interim management will guide the club through the remaining fixtures, but the broader strategy demands clarity. Recruitment, style of play, and long term vision must align.

Bellamy offers freshness and potential. Gerrard brings experience and stature. Burnley’s decision will reflect how they wish to define themselves in the next phase of their journey.

What is clear is that the stakes are high. Relegation can either fracture a club or forge it anew. Burnley now stand at that junction, with Bellamy and Gerrard representing two distinct but compelling routes forward.

Oilers' trade clock is officially ticking with Connor McDavid originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

It probably won't happen this summer, although you never know.

But the Edmonton Oilers' season-ending loss on Thursday night pushed them closer to one of the biggest decisions they'll ever have to make: Should they trade Connor McDavid?

And for McDavid, the question somewhere in his mind will grow ever louder: Should we request a move out of town?

Those are the kinds of things that feel more urgent immediately following a season-ending loss. The Oilers won the series opener against the Anaheim Ducks, then dropped four of the next five to get sent home in the first round.

After two consecutive seasons of losing in the Stanley Cup Finals, these Oilers didn't even win a playoff series.

"We were an average team all year," McDavid told reporters after the game. "When you're an average team with high expectations, you're going to be disappointed."

MORE: Sabres' fans show they can handle 'O Canada' with no microphone help

The trade reality isn't so much an immediate thing as it becomes a bit of a ticking time bomb.

Before this season, McDavid signed a contract extension for two years. It meant he wouldn't be a free agent this summer, and instead he still has two years to go.

But that's not a long-term commitment. That's basically removing the across-the-board stress of a contract year while also acknowledging that this thing better get figured out in a hurry.

A first-round loss isn't figuring it out. A first-round loss raises all the questions.

For the Oilers, it wouldn't make sense to just let McDavid walk in two years' time. For McDavid, it doesn't make sense to waste two more prime years if this isn't the best place for him to win.

Maybe the trade rumors are big this summer, or maybe it's next trade deadline or next offseason.

At some point, they're coming. A disappointing end like the one Thursday night only brings them closer.

More NHL news:

• A redemption goal for David Pastrnak
• Sabres relish in Ryan Whitney's prediction misfire
• Sidney Crosby hints at retirement plans

It wasn’t a good day for the Brotherhood Thursday in the NBA playoffs.

Jayson Tatum and Boston lost to Philadelphia, 106-93. That series is now tied 3-3. Minnesota eliminated Tyus Jones and the Denver Nuggets with a 110-98 win in Game 6. And New York eliminated Atlanta, also in Game 6, but this was more like a Mafia-style elimination than an NBA game. It was just brutal.

The halftime score was 83-36, and at one point, the Knicks were up by 60. NBA playoff teams are not supposed to be down by 60. Unbelievable.

New York blew the game open with a 39-4 run that was basically flawless. They’ll probably never be in a game like this again. It’s a one-off…but what a one-off it was! When the players on this Knicks team are old men, they’ll have dreams about this game. It was an incredible performance.

Minnesota won despite lacking their starting backcourt, which can’t make the Nuggets very happy.

Jones got in for 12 minutes, scoring 4 points and dishing out 3 assists. Typically, he had no turnovers.

Finally, Jayson Tatum and Boston missed a chance to eliminate Philly, as the Jays (Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown) both played less than their best. Brown had 18 points on 7-17/2-6, and got just 1 rebound. Tatum finished with 17 on 6-13/2-6, with 11 rebounds and 3 assists.

Tatum only played 29 minutes, leaving the game with 4:03 In the third quarter after a problem with his left leg. He said after the game that he left to ride the bike, but when he came back out, the game was out of reach, so the starters were rested for Game 7.

On Friday, we’ll get Detroit at Orlando in Game 6, with the Magic up 3-2, Toronto hosting Cleveland with the Cavaliers up 3-2, and Los Angeles at Houston, with the Lakers up 3-2.

• Watch: James Dolan couldn’t believe the Knicks-Hawks score
• HLs: Knicks unleash 39-4 run to eliminate Hawks
• Hawks news: Quin Snyder make 1 thing clear about Dyson Daniels after Knicks scuffle
• Winners and Losers From the Atlanta Hawks Disastrous Game Six Loss to The Knicks
• Quin Snyder points to ‘perfect storm’ that wrecked Hawks in Game 6
• Trae Young trade leaves Quin Snyder extension talks ahead
• Hawks have brutally embarrassed Quin Snyder in a way Jazz never did
• Report: Atlanta is Expected to Bring Back Quin Snyder, CJ McCollum Next Season
• Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum STALL Boston Celtics Offense, Sixers Force Game 7
• Jayson Tatum injury: Celtics star shares update, expects to play in Game 7
• Celtics star Jayson Tatum has left calf discomfort after 76ers force Game 7 with 106-93 win over Boston
• Celtics star Jayson Tatum provides optimistic update ahead of do-or-die Game 7
• Jayson Tatum Breaks Silence on Injury, Sends Clear Game 7 Message
• Celtics’ Jayson Tatum explains concerning in-game leg issue vs. 76ers

Go to the DBR Boards to find Blue Healer Auctions || Drop us a line

What are the projected salary cap hits for the Jacksonville Jaguars' 10 draft picks during the 2026 NFL season?

From one year to the next, rookie contract details can somewhat vary, specifically, how much of the contract is guaranteed or what the signing bonus looks like. But generally speaking, based on the round the player was taken and the specific selection, you can have a good idea of what the rookie deal will look like, with the previous year's draft guiding that projection.

So, with that, Over the Cap has projected the 2026 salary cap hit for all 257 draft picks.

Projected salary cap hits for Jaguars 2026 draft class

• Pick 56: Nate Boerkircher, TE, Texas A&M - $1.564M
• Pick 81: Albert Regis, IDL, Texas A&M - $1.279M
• Pick 88: Emmanuel Pregnon, G, Oregon - $1.249M
• Pick 100: Jalen Huskey, DB, Maryland - $1.222M
• Pick 119: Wesley Williams, DE, Duke - $1.175M
• Pick 164; Tanner Koziol, TE, Houston - $1.006M
• Pick 191: Josh Cameron, WR, Baylor - $958,793
• Pick 203: CJ Williams, WR, Stanford - $953,249
• Pick 233: Zach Durfee, DE, Washington - $923,631
• Pick 240: Parker Hughes, LB, Middle Tennessee State - $918,273

In total, the Jaguars' 2026 draft class will count $11.251 million against the 2026 salary cap. However, that full amount won't be reflected in the Jaguars' available salary cap space. Here's why.

How much 2026 salary cap space do the Jaguars have?

As has been the case all offseason, the Jaguars are tight on cap space. Following the draft, OTC has the Jaguars with $11.078 million in available cap space, which ranks 25th in the NFL. The 2026 draft class is not yet accounted for in this figure.

This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: 2026 NFL draft: Projected salary cap hits for Jaguars 10 picks

Head coach Eddie Howe says the desire of Newcastle United's owners to get to the top remains "unchanged" after meeting with them this week.

Chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the governor of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), and minority owner Jamie Reuben are among those who have flown in for a two-day annual summit at Matfen Hall in Northumberland.

Although the PIF is to withdraw its multi-billion dollar backing of LIV Golf at the end of the season, senior figures at Newcastle were informed a couple of weeks ago that the pullout would not affect the club.

Newcastle are 14th place in the Premier League, but Howe stressed the "determination to succeed" came through from those above him in the meetings he attended on Thursday.

"The desire is unchanged," he said. "It's to try and get to the top of the Premier League, to try and consistently win as many trophies as possible.

"I don't think that will change while the PIF are our owners, part owners or majority owners. They are very ambitious for the football club."

Newcastle's hierarchy have talked of achieving such goals by 2030, but Howe recognised that the infrastructure needed to elevate the club to such a position will take time.

Following a major capital investment, an announcement is expected regarding plans for a new state-of-the-art training ground to underline the owners' commitment.

There have also been discussions this week regarding the future of St James' Park as Newcastle weigh up whether to expand the stadium or build a new ground in a bid to turbocharge income streams in the long run and bridge a huge revenue gap on the league's highest-earning clubs.

"They clearly care so much about the football club [given] the long-term planning that's going on, on a number of levels," Howe said of the PIF, who bought an initial 80% stake in 2021 before going on to increase their share.

"[There are] very exciting times ahead for the club, regardless of what happens short-term. The long-term vision is clearly there."

This gathering of executives, which had been in the diary for several months, was viewed as an opportunity to discuss such infrastructure projects, recruitment plans, the team's slide down the table and how the club go about addressing it.

Howe was among those to give a presentation on Thursday, as was always planned.

Rather than reacting emotionally, the view internally remains that Newcastle need to respond rationally with the help of cold, thorough analysis.

Howe had "challenging conversations" with those at the top, but the head coach sounded upbeat at his news conference on Friday before the visit of Brighton.

"I was pleased by the level of support given to me, but of course still understanding how football works and knowing we need to get results," he said. "That will never change."

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With just over a year left on his contract at Bayern Munich, Konrad Laimer’s future with the German champions remains uncertain.

Negotiations over a new deal beyond 2027 have proved difficult due to differing salary expectations, with Laimer said to be seeking an increase from €8-9 million to €12-15 million per year.

Bayern, however, are unwilling to grant such a pay rise and remain firm in their stance, according to Bild.

It's claimed on the German tabloid’s ‘Bayern Insider’ podcast that the Bavarians want to “set an example” and draw a “clear red line” in negotiations following a series of costly contract extensions in recent years.

Could Konrad Laimer leave Bayern?

Despite being a regular starter, Bayern could opt to cash in on Laimer in the summer if an extension isn't agreed by then, Bild reports.

Laimer addressed his future in an interview with ServusTV around a month ago.

“Ultimately, it’s always about appreciation. That the performances you’ve delivered over the past years are recognised in some way,” he said.

“There was a brief conversation once, then nothing more after that. Since then, more has been written than what is actually true.”

BBC Sport has been told Mykhailo Mudryk was banned by the FA in January but that only a close-knit group of people around him and a small number of people at Chelsea were informed.

That is because the FA's anti-doping programme is deemed strictly confidential - all parts of the process, from testing to discussions with lawyers, are carried out behind closed doors in order to respect the privacy of footballers.

UK Anti-Doping (Ukad) works in collaboration with the FA on the programme.

The exact prohibited substance for which Mudryk tested positive has never been named by the FA, but BBC Sport understands it is the cardiovascular medication meldonium, which has the potential to increase respiratory capacity and stamina, which he came into contact with while on duty with the Ukraine national team.

It remains unclear how exactly Mudryk apparently ingested meldonium, which has been banned by Wada since 2016 and is primarily used in Eastern European countries to treat conditions such as angina, heart failure and coronary artery disease.

Mudryk has been suspended and unable to play for either Chelsea or Ukraine since the FA provisionally suspended him 16 months ago.

He remains contracted to the Blues until 2031, having signed a long deal when he joined for £61m in 2022, as part of the club's plan to amortise the cost of transfers and contracts.

If Mudryk's ban is upheld by Cas, he would be unable to play again until roughly December 2028, as that is four years since his provisional suspension began.

But if the ban were to be reduced by Cas, he could be back on the pitch in a much shorter timeframe. Sources close to the player believe he could be back in action as early as next season.

Chelsea would be able to terminate Mudryk's contract once the Cas process has concluded, given an anti-doping ban constitutes a breach of employment terms in most footballers' contracts.

Mudryk last played for Chelsea on 28 November 2024 and was an unused substitute for a league match three days later against Aston Villa.

The Ukrainian is training alone with a private coach at facilities including Uxbridge FC and has also hired goalkeepers for some sessions.

Mudryk lodged his appeal to Cas on 25 February.

The court will re-examine the case, typically with a panel of three arbitrators who go over the evidence and can either uphold, overturn, or modify the ban given out by the FA.

Read more on Mudryk's four-year ban and subsequent appeal

UEFA has taken a strategic step to strengthen smaller football nations across the continent.

Through its Kit Assistance Scheme programme, the European governing body has partnered with Adidas to supply high-quality kits to the national federations of Andorra, Belarus, Cyprus, the Faroe Islands, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Liechtenstein, North Macedonia, Malta and San Marino.

Over the next two seasons, these countries will unveil exclusive designs. All of this follows a selection process carried out through a tender that prioritised product quality, costs and customisation capacity.

Thanks to this, these federations will have access to an exclusive platform to design bespoke training and matchwear. By removing technical sponsorship costs, UEFA is allowing these federations to invest more of their budget in infrastructure and training, while professionalising their image on the world stage.

These are the new shirts.

ANDORRA

CYPRUS

FAROE ISLANDS

KAZAKHSTAN

KOSOVO

LIECHTENSTEIN

NORTH MACEDONIA

MALTA

SAN MARINO

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

El Hadji Malick Diouf Transfer: Manchester United Monitor West Ham Left-Back

Manchester United’s summer planning is beginning to take clearer shape, with The Guardian reporting that West Ham United defender El Hadji Malick Diouf has “emerged as a target” as the club assess options at left-back.

For United, this is not yet framed as an imminent move, more a developing situation to watch. Their first priority is understood to be midfield, where two additions are wanted, but Diouf’s name entering the conversation is significant. At 21, already adapted to Premier League football and expected to be part of Senegal’s World Cup plans, he fits the profile of a player with scope to grow rather than one arriving as a finished product.

United Eye Left-Back Competition

United’s interest is logical. Luke Shaw has enjoyed a good season, but his injury history means careful squad management will be essential, especially with Champions League football expected next term. The Guardian notes that United are “looking at bringing in competition for Luke Shaw”, and that assessment feels sensible rather than reactionary.

Tyrell Malacia has made only two appearances this season, while Noussair Mazraoui and Diogo Dalot are right-footed options who can cover the role but do not naturally solve the left-back issue. Patrick Dorgu’s versatility also complicates matters, as he could be pushed further forward, creating space for a more defensively minded addition.

Diouf’s Premier League Rise

Diouf’s West Ham story has been one of progression. Signed from Slavia Prague for €22m, around £19m, he endured a difficult opening period but has grown into one of the club’s more important performers.

Photo: IMAGO

The Guardian reports that “Diouf’s defending has improved during the second half of the campaign”, while also pointing to his “crossing ability” as a key part of his attacking threat. That combination is exactly why leading clubs are beginning to look. A young full-back who can defend more reliably, carry physical power and contribute in the final third will always attract attention.

Midfield Remains Priority

United’s transfer hierarchy still matters. The midfield is expected to come first, with Atalanta’s Éderson, Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali and Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson among the names referenced by The Guardian.

That means Diouf may depend on budget, sales and opportunity. If funds remain once midfield business is advanced, United could turn to the left flank. A winger is one option, but a defensive signing who allows Dorgu to play higher may offer better squad balance.

West Ham’s Position Could Define Deal

West Ham’s situation adds intrigue. They are fighting relegation, sit two points above the bottom three with four games remaining, and posted losses of £104.2m for the year ending 31 May 2025.

That financial context may matter if bids arrive. The Guardian suggests West Ham are “likely to need summer sales”, with Crysencio Summerville and Mateus Fernandes also expected to attract interest. Whether Diouf becomes available may depend heavily on survival, valuation and how aggressively United choose to move.

For now, this feels like a watching brief with genuine strategic merit. Diouf is not the headline priority, but he is the type of intelligent, age-profile signing United need if their rebuild is to become more coherent.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester United supporter’s perspective, this report is intriguing because it points towards a club finally thinking about squad architecture rather than simply chasing names. Under Michael Carrick, who remains in charge until the end of the season following Ruben Amorim’s January dismissal, United have looked more stable, but the squad still needs serious refinement.

Left-back has been a recurring problem. Shaw is still excellent when fit, but relying on him across a Champions League campaign would be a gamble. Malacia cannot be treated as a guaranteed solution after such limited football, while Dalot and Mazraoui covering there feels more like emergency planning than elite squad building.

Diouf would make sense if the price is sensible. He has Premier League experience, physical upside and delivery from wide areas, which could help United attack with more width and variety. The key concern is priority. United desperately need midfield control first. If Éderson, Tonali or Anderson are genuine targets, that area must take precedence.

Still, Diouf feels like the kind of move supporters could get behind. Not glamorous, not reckless, but potentially smart. United have made too many expensive, reactive decisions in recent years. This would feel more like recruitment with a plan.

Novak Djokovic has 24 Grand Slam titles to his name but hasn’t lifted one since the 2023 US Open.

He’s made it to five straight semi-finals since then, but number 25 has stayed out of reach so far.

Now at 39, there are growing questions about whether age is starting to catch up with him and if another major is still within reach.

Asked about his chances of winning a 25th Grand Slam before he steps away from the game, Ana Ivanovic shared her thoughts on the matter.

Ana Ivanovic backs Novak Djokovic to win another Grand Slam

Speaking to Eurosport, Ivanovic shared her thoughts on Djokovic’s chances of adding another Grand Slam title before he retires.

“I mean, what he’s achieved, it’s really incredible,” she said.

“We’ve known each other since we were very, very young, and we’ve been friends for a long time.

“It’s very inspiring to see that and to give that much back to Serbia and the next generation.

“I definitely think he has a chance to win another Grand Slam.

“His game is still at a very high level; he can compete with the top guys.

“If you look at the Grand Slams, he was in the semi-finals and finals, so one step closer to the title.

“But an incredible career, and not something that will be easy to match.”

Why the French Open could be Djokovic’s best shot at number 25

This month, Alcaraz confirmed he won’t be taking part in the French Open. The Spaniard had won back-to-back titles there in 2024 and 2025 and was tipped to go for a third straight title this year.

With him out of the picture, Sinner takes over as favourite, but Djokovic is still very much in the mix.

Sinner isn’t far behind, but it’s worth remembering that Djokovic got the better of him at this year’s Australian Open. If he manages to do it again in Paris, that long-awaited 25th Grand Slam might finally be within reach.

We’ll find out soon enough when play gets underway on Sunday, May 24th.

Read more:

Are Celtic now favourites for the Scottish Premiership title?

Former Rangers and Hearts midfielder Andy Halliday seems to think so despite having all but written them off last week.

Martin O'Neill's side were third in the Premiership heading into the split, one point behind Rangers and three adrift of Hearts.

But after last weekend's win over Falkirk and Rangers' defeat to Motherwell, Celtic leapfrogged Rangers to go second, still three points off the leaders.

If Celtic win at Hibs on Sunday and Rangers beat Hearts on Monday, the Parkhead club would be joint on points with Derek McInnes' side with a home game against the Jambos still to come.

"I definitely think they've improved," Halliday told the BBC's Scottish Football Podcast.

"And the main improvement that's come from Celtic has been off the ball. I think their energy and their intensity to press at the top end of the pitch is making it really difficult for opposition players.

"I must admit having watched the game in the Sportsound studio last weekend, I do think the fans made a difference at Celtic Park.

"I don't know if it's just this stage of the season, in a really tight title race, but I think that transferred on to the pitch with Celtic playing with a different type of energy.

"Last week when I was sitting on the podcast on Friday morning I had Celtic third favourites. I probably have them favourites now. That's just how much it can easily change within this league this year."

Italy hooker Marco Manfredi and prop Tom West are among nine players who will leave Northampton Saints at the end of the season.

Manfredi joined the Prem leaders from Treviso-based Benetton in October but has only made three appearances, the most recent against Leicester Tigers in January.

West has had the most game-time among those exiting Franklin's Gardens, having played 34 games since arriving from Saracens ahead of last season - but only 11 during the current campaign because of injuries, and he is to join Newcastle Red Bulls.

The others leaving are Fyn Brown, Will Glister, Emeka Atuanya, Billy Pasco and three who have yet to play a first-team game, Archie Appleby, Jack Lawrence, and Siep Walta.

"We talk a lot about connection, and about the value of every individual within our environment – the contribution of the whole squad is what underpins our performances," said director of rugby Phil Dowson.

"Every player at Saints wants to wear the black, green and gold every weekend, and while that isn't always possible, the professionalism and commitment shown by this group has been exceptional.

"Every one of them has put the club first and played their part in driving standards and supporting the team, while pushing as hard as possible to develop and push their own careers forward."

Northampton are four points clear of Bath at the top of the Prem table and return to action on 9 May for the East Midlands derby against Leicester at Welford Road.

Arsenal defender Gabriel should have been shown a red card for violent conduct against Manchester City, according to the Premier League's key match incidents panel.

However, while the panel believed referee Anthony Taylor should have dismissed the Brazil international, it also felt the incident did not reach the threshold for a video assistant referee (VAR) intervention.

Gabriel had been engaged in a battle with Erling Haaland throughout the top-of-the-table Premier League clash.

In the 82nd minute, the two players literally went head-to-head, with the Gabriel pushing his forehead into the City striker.

Referee Anthony Taylor opted to caution both players for adopting an aggressive attitude on the advice of his assistant.

The VAR, John Brooks, backed that decision, ruling that the centre-back's action was "not excessively aggressive or violent".

Most panellists disagreed with the yellow card shown by Taylor, voting 3:2 that "the extra head movement forward from Gabriel" should be seen as violent conduct.

The other two panellists argued "there is little force or initial backwards movement from Gabriel."

The panel voted 4:1 against a VAR intervention.

Gabriel would have been suspended for three matches if he had been sent off for violent conduct.

It was also unanimously ruled that Taylor was correct not to show a red card to City defender Abdukodir Khusanov.

Arsenal striker Kai Havertz went down under a challenge from the Uzbekistan international when running through on goal in the 53rd minute.

Taylor did not give a free-kick, and the VAR opted against a review for denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity.

The panel noted that "Havertz is not in control of the ball and Khusanov makes shoulder-to-shoulder contact".

Liverpool will need to sooner or later move on from Virgil van Dijk.

The Dutchman - who joined from Southampton back in 2018 for £75m - remains one of the best centre-backs around. But the 34-year-old only has one more year to run on his current £400k per week contract. A parting of the ways in 2027 looks inevitable.

It would be no surprise to learn that Arne Slot and Richard Hughes have a succession plan already in place. There has been no shortage of top central defenders linked with a move to Anfield who can play in Van Dijk’s usual left-sided station.

The likes of Alessandro Bastoni and Nico Schlotterbeck are two of the most prominent names. But there is the option for Liverpool to move back in for a previously-named target.

Goncalo Inacio named as a Liverpool target

Goncalo Inacio, 24, is currently starring for Sporting CP and looks set to move on this summer if any team triggers his relatively low €60m (£52m) release clause.

Under contract until 2030 Gazzetta dello Sport has named Liverpool as one of the teams who would not be indifferent to the opportunity to sign the left-footer if the opportunity arose.

“His name is at the top of the wish lists of many of Europe's top clubs: Real Madrid and Barcelona would do anything to sign him, and obviously the Premier League giants—Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United—can't remain indifferent to a release clause of "mere" €60 million,” the report reads.

Furthermore the Italian outlet adds that Inacio’s leadership credentials are coming to the fore and could see him replace Cristiano Ronaldo as captain of the Portugal national team when the No7 retires.

“The leadership he displayed while playing for Sporting has made him a key figure in the Portugal dressing room ahead of the World Cup, ready to inherit the captain's armband if needed,” the report reads.

Gonçalo Inácio: Situation summary

Gonçalo Inácio is a left-footed Portuguese centre-back born in August 2001 who came through Sporting’s Alcochete academy and broke into the first team in 2020, quickly becoming a mainstay and full international for Portugal.

Standing around 1.86m, he has already passed 200 senior appearances for Sporting, underlining his durability and importance in Lisbon.

Inácio is a modern, ball-playing defender who can operate as the left-sided centre-back in a back four or three, and has also filled in at left-back or as a holding midfielder.

He is noted for anticipation, composure and positioning, plus progressive passing and carries; he ranks extremely high among centre-backs for passes attempted, progressive passes and progressive carries, and is comfortable breaking lines with diagonals or stepping into midfield to beat a press.

Quick across the ground rather than overwhelmingly dominant aerially, he suits high defensive lines and proactive pressing structures.

Sporting extended his deal through 2030 and his contract includes a release clause reported in the €60–80m range, with talks previously floated about raising it further alongside a salary bump.

Enzo Le Fee has to be weaved into Sunderland's team and ideally in a central position, says former striker Marco Gabbiadini.

Speaking on BBC Radio Newcastle, commentator Nick Barnes said there is a dilemma for Regis le Bris in whether to continue to use Habib Diarra or find a central role for Le Fee.

Barnes explained: "There's a debate that be had about Diarra because if he wants to get the wingers in the team, it means he can push Le Fee into the 10 position or the eight position, which he feels is Le Fee's best position."

And Gabbiadini offered: "Look, it's hard that the dynamic changes for the manager. Sometimes he has to play Le Fee in a wide position because other people are injured.

"But yes, getting him into the middle of the park, he's been so influential and, you know, he sees those little openings and finds little pockets of space, but it can leave you unbalanced in other ways.

"I think if he's fit, he's got to play because he's, he's such a clever footballer. Hard work is brilliant and everyone has to work hard. But, you know, I think at times Diarra is running, but is he running in the right areas?

"Does he need to run? My favourite saying was, 'good players know when to stand still' and Le Fee does that. He makes himself available for his team-mates. So, you know, the manager's got decisions to make."

• Listen to the debate and callers on the Black Cats

Edinburgh have continued their recruitment drive by adding English stand-off James Grayson from Japan Rugby League One team Mitsubishi Dynaboars.

The 27-year-old has signed a one-year contract with the URC club.

Grayson, who can play full-back or at 10, made almost 100 appearances for boyhood club Northampton Saints before a move to Japan in 2023.

He departs Mitsubishi Dynaboars have played 48 games and scored 294 points.

"I'm delighted to have signed with Edinburgh for next season," said Grayson.

"After three years overseas, the time feels right to return closer to home and the opportunity to play in the URC was a big factor in my decision.

"It's also a special moment for me and my family – my great granny was a very proud Scottish lady and I know she would have been delighted to see me make this move."

The fly-half, son of former England World Cup winner and British and Irish Lion Paul Grayson, is Edinburgh's fifth new signing after Riley Higgins, Louie Chapman, Geordie Gwynn and Alec Hepburn.

"We're really pleased to add James to the group," said head coach Sean Everitt.

"He's an impressive player - someone who reads the game well and brings a real quality with the boot, both from hand and at goal.

"He's played a huge amount of rugby at a high level. He'll come in and challenge for the 10 jersey and that competition for places will be good for the squad."

As Mohamed Salah waved goodbye to the Anfield crowd on Saturday after getting injured, the manner of his reaction and that of all those in the ground suggested that deep down, both player and supporters knew it could be the final time.

Thankfully for Liverpool supporters, the side's manager Arne Slot confirmed on Friday the Egyptian is expected return to action before the end of the season after sustaining a minor muscle injury.

For now, what is certain is Liverpool will head to Old Trafford this weekend without the man that has a formidable record against Manchester United.

With 13 goals in 16 games against United, no player has scored more than Salah in the Premier League era against them. Against the other five 'big six' teams in the Premier League, Salah has contributed a mammoth 49 goals and 22 assists for the Reds.

Without him, Liverpool need others to take responsibility and notably the focus will intensify on Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz as they take on United, Chelsea and Aston Villa over the next fortnight.

Put simply, both need to step up after a challenging season and Slot knows part of his tenure will ultimately be judged on his ability to get the best out of the two most expensive signings in Premier League history.

In the aftermath of Liverpool's Champions League exit to Paris St-Germain, Slot insisted the future is bright. Eyebrows were certainly raised after that comment but if Liverpool can put in a string of performances in their remaining games then perhaps the Dutchman has a point. Integral to that will be Isak and Wirtz.

Last Saturday saw both of the summer signings, who cost a combined £241m, score against Crystal Palace but Isak is yet to complete 90 minutes as a Liverpool player after a season plagued with injury while Wirtz has impressed in moments but is still awaiting a statement performance for the side.

German Wirtz is yet to score or provide an assist against any of the Premier League teams currently occupying the European places but when that was put to Slot on Friday, he insisted that's a "coincidence" and said he is "100% sure" Wirtz will start delivering in the bigger games.

Meanwhile, Isak managed just 18 touches against Palace but that was still more than the nine he got against Everton and the five against PSG in the other games he's started since returning from injury. The goal he scored - the Swede's first in the Premier League for Liverpool at Anfield - will only do the 26-year-old's confidence a world of good.

"In terms of what I've seen, everyone knows and sees and experiences as team-mates how outstanding he is. It is about getting games, confidence but obviously scoring goals as a striker – that's the main trigger for him," said Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk.

"The more he touches the ball, the bigger chance there is that we score goals," Slot added on Friday.

"Having Alex more and more available would help with converting created chances into goals, which is something we haven't done very well this season."

For Wirtz, the emphasis on connecting more with Isak is clear, especially with Hugo Ekitike sidelined.

"It's important that we feed him with balls because if he's just there on top alone then it's hard for him to score goals," Wirtz said.

His own tally of seven goals and 10 assists this season is certainly no room for major concern but Wirtz, who turns 23 on Sunday, would be the first to admit that he must do better.

The finish against Palace was a timely reminder of his class. In mitigation, he initially struggled with the intensity and physicality of Premier League football but has bulked up considerably since making the move from Bayer Leverkusen.

Those at Liverpool, including Slot, believe there is so much more to come from a player they fought Bayern Munich and Manchester City for.

"The development Florian has made in his Liverpool career is so clear and obvious," said Slot. "In the 93rd minute against Crystal Palace, making a duel on the sideline, winning a throw-in and then making a sprint from 40 yards and hitting the ball in the top corner... That is something I am not completely convinced he could do eight months ago.

"His improvement - and he was already an elite player – will only continue as he is only 22 so that makes complete sense. Almost every player in the world is at his best when he is 25, 26 but he is already an elite player and he can only become better and that is the beauty of the signings we did last summer, that all of them are of a certain age where we can only expect them to get better,"

There will certainly be more incomings in the summer with Liverpool linked with RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande, who can play on both wings, but they will face competition from a host of other European clubs for the 19-year-old.

The arrival of another quality winger should help Isak and Wirtz next season but in the here and now lies a wonderful opportunity for the pair to start living up to the expectation they arrived with.

"We can be on a much higher level than we are now," said Slot on Friday.

Victory on Sunday at their arch-rivals would see Liverpool go up to third on goal difference, which would be quite the feat considering the lows they have endured this season.

Champions League qualification is all but secured but it would also act as some form of proof that if this is Liverpool during their struggles, then what could be possible if they can get things to click and the likes of Wirtz and Isak can start to fulfil their immense potential?

That's a big if - but a promising prospect indeed.

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MADRID — Marta Kostyuk is having herself a month.

Two weeks ago, she won her first title in three years, at the WTA 250 Rouen Open in France. On Saturday, she will play for the biggest one of her career, when she meets Mirra Andreeva in the Madrid Open final. It is Kostyuk’s first WTA 1000 title tilt, a year on from a tempestuous quarterfinal in the Spanish capital against world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka.

Kostyuk lost that match 7-6(4), 7-6(7), but it turned with Sabalenka serving down 5-4 in the second-set tiebreak. She missed a first serve, with rain falling. She then approached chair umpire Jenny Zhang, who told her to continue. Sabalenka threw the ball up, caught it, and went to sit on her bench. Zhang explained to Kostyuk that Sabalenka would then get a first serve when the match resumed, but Sabalenka had been the one who stopped it, not the umpire. Kostyuk was furious. The rain stopped. Sabalenka won.

There was no handshake at the end of that match, and not because of the serve acrimony. Kostyuk, and the other players from Ukraine on the WTA Tour, do not shake hands with players from Russia and Belarus. They have not done so since Russia, with assistance from Belarus, invaded Ukraine in 2022.

The same will be true of Kostyuk’s final against Andreeva, and it was true of the player Kostyuk beat to get there: Anastasia Potapova, who switched nationality to Austria last year. Russian and Belarusian players are not currently allowed to play under their own flags.

Kostyuk named one exception to her policy, but she said that Potapova’s switch in nationality, and others like it, did not change her sentiments.

“The only person that I shake hands with is Daria Kasatkina, because she didn’t just change her passport, she also openly said that she doesn’t support the war,” she said in a news conference ahead of her 6-2, 1-6, 6-1 win over Potapova, who reached the semifinals after entering as a lucky loser, thanks to Madison Keys’ withdrawal due to illness.

“So this is why me and other girls made the decision to shake hands with her, purely out of respect.

“There have been multiple players who have changed their nationality, but none of them ever voiced anything against war or, you know, anything to support Ukrainians. So, for me, that doesn’t change.”

When asked about her change of nationality during a news conference at January’s Australian Open, Potapova said that it had been in the works for some time, that she has been living in Vienna, Austria for a while, and considers it her “second home.”

“Now it’s my first home,” she said. She did not say whether her switch had anything to do with Russia’s politics.

Kasatkina, who started representing Australia in 2025, described the war as a “full-blown nightmare” in a series of interviews with Russian blogger Vitya Kravchenko, in which she also came out publicly. At the 2025 Charleston Open, she told reporters that defecting from Russia was necessary if she wanted to be herself.

Like several other players from Ukraine, Kostyuk’s family is still there, including her mother, who moved back two years ago after staying with Kostyuk in France for a time.

Kostyuk, 23, spent the first year of the war trying to win on behalf of her country and to bring inspiration to her fellow citizens. Eventually, that burden became too heavy, and she has tried to separate tennis from the war, but only so much. When she won the title in Rouen over another player from Ukraine, Veronika Podrez, she gave an emotional speech about the challenges that players from her country faced in recent years.

She will face a huge challenge in Andreeva, the 19-year-old star who lives in France. Kostyuk’s past finals against native Russians and Belarusians at the top of the WTA Tour rankings have not gone well. She lost to Elena Rybakina at the Stuttgart Tennis Grand Prix in 2024, and to Sabalenka at the Brisbane International in January.

This article originally appeared in The Athletic.

Tennis, Women's Tennis

2026 The Athletic Media Company

There’s a growing sense that things aren’t quite aligning for Liverpool right now, and that feeling extends beyond the pitch as Arne Slot addressed fresh injury concerns ahead of our trip to Manchester United.

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With supporters still protesting ticket prices and questioning the club’s direction, the Dutchman’s latest update only adds to the unease around availability in key areas.

Slot delivers mixed update on Alisson, Salah and Kerkez

Speaking via Liverpoolfc.com, Arne Slot provided a detailed assessment of the current situation, starting with the Brazilian goalkeeper.

Our head coach explained: “For us it’s a bonus every player that comes back because now if you add Mo [Salah] to the injury list, it’s getting longer and longer, but that’s been throughout the whole season.”

On Alisson Becker specifically, the boss added: “Ali hasn’t trained with us yet. [He is] very close to training with us, I have to hear today from the medical staff if he is able to train today or either tomorrow or otherwise the start of next week.”

He made it clear there would be no unnecessary risks taken, stating: “He is very close but of course, also we don’t want to take any risks, because that’s never what you do with a player and that’s also not what we do now.”

Meanwhile, Hungarian full-back Milos Kerkez is also dealing with a minor issue, with Slot confirming: “Milos has had some niggles… but I expect him to either train today or tomorrow.”

Availability concerns underline bigger Liverpool issue

The update arrives shortly after the club confirmed Mo Salah will return before the end of the season, with the Egyptian forward suffering only a minor muscle injury, though his availability for Old Trafford remains uncertain.

That’s significant because, as Opta have highlighted, Salah, Alisson, Virgil van Dijk and Andy Robertson account for 1,518 appearances for Liverpool, more than the rest of the squad combined, which shows just how much experience we’re relying on.

With the No.1 still not back in training and our No.11 not guaranteed for the weekend, there’s a genuine question over how strong we’ll be against a direct rival for a top-three finish.

Freddie Woodman’s impressive display against Crystal Palace offers some reassurance if Alisson isn’t ready, while Kerkez’s situation could open the door for Robertson again as he approaches his Anfield farewell.

Still, at a time when fans are already questioning the club’s direction, the growing injury list only adds another layer of concern heading into one of the biggest fixtures of the run-in.

Arne Slot has confirmed that Mohamed Salah is expected to return to action before the end of the season.

The Egyptian is leaving the club at the end of the current season after making a massive impact during his seasons with the Reds.

However, there were fears that Salah had played his last game for the club during Liverpool's 3-1 win at home to Crystal Palace when the forward was taken off with just under an hour gone in the game.

Ahead this Sunday's big game with rivals Manchester United, Slot confirmed that the injury is not a severe one.

"He is always working incredibly hard during the season when he is fit and when he is injured to get back as soon as possible," the Dutch manager said.

"Usually he is back earlier fit than other players. He has a minor injury and we expect and need him back for the final part of the season, but not for Sunday.

"It is a big relief that his injury is minor and he is able to play for us and at the World Cup. If a player deserves a big send off then it is Mo."

Slot went on to say that goalkeeper Alisson Becker is yet to return to training with the club taking 'no risks' with the player.

"We are aware that it is a very big game," Slot went on to say about this weekend's clash. 

"Not only because we play Man United, but to qualify for the Champions League and to get the highest possible league position.

"We wanted to win the league – that is not possible – so we are trying to finish as high as possible.

"A win is the right step forward. It is an important step, it is definitely not a step backwards."

Liverpool are currently fourth in the league, three points behind United and would move ahead of them with a win at Old Trafford.

According to a report from Mundo Deportivo, it has come to light that Barcelona are tracking Real Sociedad goalkeeper Alex Remiro closely, but the situation is far from straightforward.

It must be noted that Remiro’s contract runs until 2027, and that timeline has made him an attractive option for Barcelona. 

The club is already exploring the idea of signing him either at a reduced price this summer or waiting patiently to bring him in on a free transfer later. 

However, Real Sociedad are not sitting back. 

Real Socieded not giving up

As reported by the outlet, the La Liga club want to keep Remiro and have started working on a new contract that would extend his stay by at least two more years, with an additional option included. 

From their point of view, losing a key player like him, especially on a free deal, is not something they want to risk.

There is also an important detail that makes this situation more interesting. 

Remiro’s release clause is set to drop significantly this summer, going from €50 million to €12 million. 

Real Sociedad want to extend Alex Remiro’s contract. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

That change could open the door for Barcelona if they decide to act early instead of waiting.

What about Remiro?

As far as the goalkeeper is concerned, he is in no rush. Remiro is understood to be happy at Real Sociedad and comfortable with his current role. 

At the same time, he is aware of Barcelona’s interest and has already held discussions with his agent regarding the next step in his career. 

Despite that, he has asked for time, around four weeks, before making any decision.

His focus right now is on finishing the season strongly and after that, attention will shift towards the World Cup, and only then will he seriously consider his future. 

From Barcelona’s side, there is also no immediate pressure, as the club’s priority lies in strengthening other areas. 

The goalkeeping position will be addressed later, depending on how their financial situation develops and whether a move for Remiro fits within La Liga’s rules.

Anthony Gordon is pushing for a return to the Newcastle squad for this weekend’s game against Brighton.

The forward has missed the last two games but has taken part in training ahead of Saturday’s clash.

“He did part of a session on Wednesday,” Newcastle boss Howe revealed. “It was great to see him back on the pitch. He’s a player of huge quality and one that we’ve missed.

“We’ll make an assessment on his fitness closer to the game and see what he gets through today.”

Newcastle will also be boosted by the return of Joelinton from suspension.

“Joey’s a massive part of what we do,” Howe said. “He’s got that will to win and that determination to fight for everything. Every loose ball, every duel. He’s there from the beginning of the game till the end.

“He’s got that mentality that we need more of. He’s the one setting the standards so, when he’s not playing, I think we miss something, his unique qualities, and it’ll be great to have him back available.”

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The Minnesota Vikings traded Jonathan Greenard to the Philadelphia Eagles on Friday, April 24th, transforming their top roster strength into a spot that needs a little love. And as a straightforward solution, the club should sign free-agent pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney, and call it good.

Minnesota can patch its EDGE3 problem without overthinking the market.

Free agency is seven weeks old, but Clowney remains there for the taking.

A Veteran Pass Rusher Still Makes Sense for Brian Flores

Do the thing, and secure a veteran EDGE — is our formal recommendation.

The OLB Group without Greenard

Before the draft, Minnesota was all set at outside linebacker. Fans bragged about the room; the depth was sweet. Following Greenard’s exodus, the stakes have changed.

This is the current OLB corps for defensive coordinator Brian Flores:

That is certainly enough human bodies for the regular season roster in four months, but after Batty and Chambliss, it is unclear if Stewart, Botelho, or Walker will be a part of the 53-man fun.

Interim general manager Rob Brzezinski should sign Clowney and plop him at OLB3.

Clowney’s Career Production and Price Tag

Here’s Clowney’s career resume:

For the 2025 Dallas Cowboys, Clowney played 373 defensive snaps while still managing to bank 8.5 sacks. A starting outside linebacker, for example, could play double that count, which, in theory, would plop Clowney firmly over 15 sacks.

Of course, Minnesota doesn’t need Clowney to start — it has Turner and Van Ginkel for that — but the OLB3 production has the potential to be stellar. Clowney’s next contract should pay him between $5 millon and $8 million per season. He earned about $5.5 million last year.

Zone Coverage‘s Trevor Ripley on the Clowney-to-MIN scenario: “Clowney is a savvy vet. Despite being a one-year import, he offers far more skill and experience than Minnesota has at rotational edge. Behind Turner and Andrew Van Ginkel, the next two men up would likely be Tyler Batty and Bo Richter, who have combined for 24 tackles and 0 sacks in their short careers.”

“Batty or Richter could develop into impact players. Still, much like Tai Felton’s case, Batty and Richter still have a ways to go before Brian Flores trusts them with meaningful snaps, especially in the event of a serious injury to a starter. Some project that second-round pick Golday could slide down to edge at times. However, for the low, low price of a few million bucks, Clowney still feels more secure.”

Playoff-Contending Teams Need OLB Depth

The Eagles won the Greenard sweepstakes. Why did they want him? The answer is simple: the NFL’s best teams habitually stockpile EDGE rushers to surge toward the playoffs and Super Bowl. It’s just the way it goes. In fact, the Vikings’ willingness to trade Greenard is a little weird in that regard.

Still, there’s a world where Minnesota threads the needle, unable to afford Greenard, but managing to land a semi-big fish like Clowney as a consolation. It would ease the pain of losing Greenard, and truth be told, Clowney somehow plays fewer snaps in 2026 but records 5.5 sacks.

Otherwise, Flores would turn to Richter, Batty, or Stewart, hoping for the best from a player who has never shown sustainable production.

The Non-Clowney Solutions

To be clear, Clowney isn’t the only EDGE option on the wire right now. He’s probably the best, however. After Clowney, the market looks like this:

• Joey Bosa
• Cameron Jordan
• Von Miller
• Kyle Van Noy
• A.J. Epenesa
• Marcus Davenport
• Denico Autry
• Derek Barnett
• Haason Reddick
• Dante Fowler Jr.
• Leonard Floyd
• Michael Danna

Those players should start to find new homes in May, as teams evaluate their pass-rushing depth after the draft. Many didn’t get all they wanted at the EDGE spot; that happens.

Clowney turned 33 this offseason and has played for five different teams since the start of 2020. He knows the lay of the land in the NFL.

LIVERPOOL, England (AP) — Liverpool star Mohamed Salah will return from injury in time for a proper farewell, but he won't be ready for Sunday's game at Manchester United.

The Egypt forward, who is leaving the club at the end of this season, sustained what appeared to be a hamstring problem in the win over Crystal Palace last Saturday.

Liverpool coach Arne Slot confirmed on Friday that Salah will play again during this campaign.

“Usually he’s earlier fit than other players after a minor injury — because he has a minor injury — so we expect him indeed to be back in the final part of the season, but not for Sunday,” Slot said.

“It's a big relief that his injury is minor, so that he's able to play for us, that he's able to play at the World Cup. If there's any time a player that deserves to have (that) kind of big send-off, it's definitely Mo.”

Salah announced in late March that he's leaving the club one year earlier than expected. This is his ninth season at Anfield.

The 33-year-old Salah has endured a lackluster campaign that included a public row with Slot. He's scored just seven Premier League goals after topping the chart last season with 29.

Liverpool has four games left this season, which concludes May 24 when Brentford visits Anfield.

Slot's team trails third-place United by three points with both sides on track for Champions League spots.

Salah key player for Egypt

Egypt is in Group G at the World Cup and opens against Belgium on June 15 before facing New Zealand and Iran. Egypt has never won a World Cup match in any of its three appearances.

Their most recent appearance was at the 2018 edition in Russia, where Salah was slowed by a shoulder injury sustained in the Champions League final weeks earlier, when Liverpool lost to Real Madrid.

___

AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

Surrey County Cricket Club have increased security and bag checks at the Oval following the Golders Green stabbings earlier this week.

Police have charged Essa Suleiman, 45, with attempted murder following the stabbings of two Jewish men in north London on Wednesday, with the incident contributing to the UK terrorism threat level being raised to “severe”.

That is the second highest level on the scale and means the chance of terror attacks are considered “highly likely” by authorities.

Surrey’s County Championship clash against Sussex runs from Friday to Monday and the club has moved quickly to reflect the changing circumstances.

A club statement read: “Surrey are in regular communication with the Met Police and will adjust our own security measures in line with the increased threat level. We want to ensure that all staff, spectators and players feel safe and secure at the Kia Oval and will take the action necessary to do so.

“Please note there will be additional security presence and heightened bag searches at this weekend’s Rothesay County Championship match with Sussex, so please allow additional time to enter the ground.”

Surrey have been pioneering a new scheme this season that encourages home-based workers to use the ground as their office, utilising desks and new super-fast broadband connections.

Their last home match, against Essex, saw a 21st century record of 15,663 spectators in attendance.

Surrey, who won three straight County Championship titles between 2022 and 2024, are looking to regain their crown this season after Nottinghamshire finished top of Division One last year.

However, they are currently sixth in the table after drawing their opening three fixtures of the season against Essex, Leicestershire and Warwickshire.

They are 18 points behind leaders Warwickshire, while they are also trailing Somerset, Nottinghamshire, Sussex and Essex in the table heading into Friday’s match.

Germany again looks to be at the forefront of gender equality in football after Bayern Munich confirmed Kathleen Krüger was talking to Hamburg SV about becoming their board member for sport.

Union Berlin men's team recently appointed Marie-Louise Eta as interim coach for the rest of the season, the first club in Europe's big five leagues to solely appoint a woman to the role.

Now Bundesliga side Hamburg are mulling bringing a woman into the top football job at the club. A board member for sport in Germany is normally in charge of all men's football activities including hiring or firing coaches and transfers. They have some say on the women's teams too.

"We can confirm that Kathleen Krüger has informed us she's in talks with Hamburg," Bayern sporting director Christoph Freund told a news conference on Friday.

"Kathleen has held a lot of positions at the club, she's very respected and done a great job. It's also recognition that she's being considered for this position at a big club."

Krüger, a former Bayern women's midfielder, is head of organization and infrastructure at Bayern.

The board member for sport job is available at Hamburg after former Germany striker Stefan Kuntz departed at the turn of the year over allegations of serious misconduct, which he denies.

Texas A&M's 2026 transfer portal class is nationally considered one of the best cycles after landing six commitments, led by former Kansas State shooting guard PJ Haggerty, who averaged nearly 24 points per game last season, and will serve as the program's go-to scoring option before heading to the NBA in 2027.

After his first season at the helm, coach Bucky McMillan has nearly completed a rebuild now, including elite talent and depth in the backcourt, as former NBA G-League guard Bryson Warren and LSU transfer guard Jalen Reece have also signed with the program, while the frontcourt is slowly but surely coming together after LMU transfer Jalen Shelley officially signed on Thursday.

Now knowing that forwards Mackenzie Mgbako, Zach Clemence, and Jamie Vinson are set to return, the addition of Shelley, who brings substantial size and versatility as a wing with the ability to cut inside and make plays near the rim, and if his three-point shooting percentage (28%) improves, Shelley will be one of the more unstoppable 3&D players in the SEC.

Needing at least one more veteran forward to add starting or reserve depth to an already taller roster that fits McMillan's fast-paced scheme, it's important to note that Texas A&M's making it to the second round of the NCAA Tournament last season with a roster completely from the transfer portal provides a blueprint for a more talented roster to make some noise in 2027.

Welcome to Aggieland, Jalen Shelley 🏡

→ Averaged 13.7 PPG, 6.6 RPG
→ Recorded four double-doubles and four 20-point games last year
More 🔗 https://t.co/DllnYAeuOr#GigEm | #BuckyBallpic.twitter.com/4bsu4CZ3Pp

— Texas A&M Basketball (@aggiembk) April 30, 2026

Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.

This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: LMU star transfer F Jalen Shelley officially signs with Texas A&M