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The Jacksonville Jaguars' offense struggled significantly last season, with most players regressing except for rookie wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. New head coach Liam Coen, coming from a successful stint as the Buccaneers' offensive coordinator, is expected to elevate the unit in 2025. CBS Sports ranked the Jaguars' offensive trio of Brian Thomas Jr., running back Travis Etienne, and quarterback Trevor Lawrence as the 19th best in the NFL, a drop from 16th the previous year. Despite Thomas Jr.'s historically great rookie season, the ranking fell due to concerns about Lawrence and Etienne. Lawrence played only 10 games and performed poorly, raising doubts about him meeting his initial high expectations. Etienne faces potential reduction in his role after the team added other running backs. Within the AFC South, the Houston Texans' trio ranked highest at 11th, followed by the Jaguars at 19th. The Tennessee Titans ranked 28th, and the Indianapolis Colts ranked 30th. CBS Sports attributed the Colts' low ranking to uncertainty at quarterback, where veteran Gardner Minshew is likely to start due to Anthony Richardson's injuries. Minshew's limitations mean running back Jonathan Taylor (still not back to his 2021 peak) and receiver Michael Pittman Jr. (possibly challenged by Josh Downs) carry a heavy burden, leading to voter skepticism.
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Lionel Messi has won the AT&T Goal of the Matchday award for Matchday 24, receiving 77.3% of the fan vote. This marks his fifth Goal of the Matchday honor in 2025. The winning goal was a low free kick he scored for Inter Miami CF against Nashville SC, opening the scoring in their 2-1 victory at Chase Stadium and contributing to his MLS-record fifth consecutive brace. Evander finished in second place with 15.3% of the vote for his long-range strike, though his team, FC Cincinnati, lost 4-2 to rivals Columbus Crew. David Da Costa came in third place with 4.2% for his clinical finish that gave the Portland Timbers an early lead against St. Louis CITY SC. Martín Ojeda took fourth place with 3.3% for his low free kick that found the near post in Orlando City's 1-1 draw with CF Montréal. The article concludes by directing readers to view all the nominees.
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Caleb Williams entered the NFL as the highly-touted 2024 first overall draft pick for the Chicago Bears, following an impressive college career. While his rookie season didn't reach the predicted "generational" heights, partly due to the Bears' organizational issues, he still performed well and has a promising future, especially under head coach Ben Johnson. Recently retired NFL legend Ndamukong Suh offered Williams public advice via social media (X/Twitter). Suh specifically urged the Bears organization to allow Williams the freedom to pursue non-football business ventures during his free time. He argued that focusing solely on football can lead to player burnout, stating, "Stepping away can make you better." Suh emphasized that building an identity and life outside the game helps players stay sharp and avoid burnout, a strategy he personally employed throughout his career. Suh's perspective contrasts with criticism Williams has faced from some sports analysts and fans who view his off-field business activities as a lack of dedication. The article suggests Suh's advice is valuable and timely, highlighting his own successful career balance, which enabled him to retire as a potential Hall of Famer while also setting up a fulfilling post-football life. The article notes that Suh's advice aligns with what Williams is already striving towards. Despite his youth, Williams understands the finite nature of an NFL career and is actively working to build generational wealth for himself and his future family beyond football. Ultimately, while pursuing long-term financial success like Suh, Williams and Bears fans hope he first achieves significant football accomplishments similar to Suh's own legacy, which includes being a Super Bowl champion, a 5-time Pro Bowler, and a 5-time All-Pro.
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Rome Odunze, the Chicago Bears' 2024 first-round wide receiver pick, had a rookie season that appeared disappointing with 54 catches, 734 receiving yards, and three touchdowns, falling short of high expectations. However, this underperformance stemmed from team-wide issues, including offensive inconsistency, Keenan Allen reducing his target share, poor play-calling from an overwhelmed coordinator, and struggles linking up with rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. Despite these challenges, Odunze's stats were still impressive for a rookie under such circumstances, and with an improved offensive scheme and better quarterback play, he is poised for a breakout in his second year. Caleb Williams, the Bears' quarterback and fellow 2024 first-round pick, experienced an up-and-down rookie campaign, setting franchise rookie records for completions, passing yards, and passing touchdowns despite frequently facing poor offensive line protection that contributed to mid-season coordinator and coach firings. For the upcoming season, the Bears have addressed these weaknesses by hiring head coach Ben Johnson, known for explosive offenses, retooling the offensive line with three new starters, and adding dynamic rookie playmakers like TE Colston Loveland and WR Luther Burden III, positioning Williams for a breakout with enhanced protection and offensive strategy. A breakout season for Odunze is expected to align closely with one for Williams, as their performances are interdependent, and both are projected to achieve significant improvements in the 2025 NFL season.
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AC Milan are firmly rejecting any possibility of selling Portuguese winger Rafael Leao, following reports from France suggesting Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) are preparing an approach for the highly-rated forward. The club, based on reports from Gazzetta.it via MilanNews24, has absolutely no intention of parting ways with the 26-year-old player. Milan consider Leao a vital component of their team. Despite French publication L'Equipe reporting PSG's interest, new head coach Massimiliano Allegri and sporting director Igli Tare are both determined to retain their star player. There is a firm belief within the club that Allegri, known for his track record in developing talent, specifically wants the Portuguese international to be central to ushering in a new era for AC Milan. To solidify Leao's future and end transfer speculation, sporting director Igli Tare will work on securing a new long-term contract for the former Lille and Sporting player.
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Josh Jacobs is firmly established as the Green Bay Packers' starting running back for the 2025 season, positioned as one of the offense's most crucial players alongside quarterback Jordan Love. Behind Jacobs, a significant training camp battle looms for the RB2 role between Emanuel Wilson and MarShawn Lloyd. Wilson proved to be a highly efficient backup in 2024, rushing 103 times for 502 yards and four touchdowns, averaging 4.9 yards per carry. Lloyd, however, is a 2024 third-round draft pick (No. 88 overall) from USC who missed nearly his entire rookie season due to significant injuries. He brings an enticing blend of explosiveness and dual-threat ability, evidenced by his 2023 college stats: 820 rushing yards, nine touchdowns, a 7.1 yards per carry average, and 13 receptions for 232 yards (17.8 yards per catch). Beat reporter Zach Kruse identifies this as one of the biggest position battles to watch when training camp begins on July 23rd. He notes Wilson's efficiency and success rate (59.9%) but highlights Lloyd's high draft pedigree and dynamic potential, framing it as a true competition. Lloyd profiles as potential "lightning" to Jacobs' "thunder," while Wilson is a solid, experienced backup entering his third year in the system. Kruse concludes that regardless of who wins the RB2 spot, the Packers should feel great about their running back depth heading into the 2025 season, describing it as an extremely deep and talented group led by the All-Pro Jacobs, barring injuries.
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Two key players from the Los Angeles Chargers, Justin Herbert and Rashawn Slater, were recently recognized in ESPN analyst Jeremy Fowler's annual top 10 rankings for their positions. Quarterback Justin Herbert was ranked No. 7 on the list. He holds the NFL record for most career passing yards through five seasons with 21,093 yards. In the 2023 season, his attempts per game decreased from 35 to 29.6 due to offensive coordinator Greg Roman's run-heavy strategy, but he achieved a remarkably low interception rate of 0.6% on 504 attempts, the best since Tom Brady in 2016. Herbert threw for 3,870 yards with 23 touchdowns and three interceptions, posting a career-high passer rating of 101.7, and added 306 rushing yards with two touchdowns. An AFC executive praised him as underrated, stating Herbert is consistently a top 5-8 quarterback due to his accuracy, athleticism, and decision-making, and would be a high draft pick if the league restarted. Offensive tackle Rashawn Slater secured the No. 6 spot on his position list. Voters highlighted his athleticism as an ideal fit for Roman's system, noting he had the fewest run-block losses (68) among qualifying players who appeared in at least 12 games. Slater committed only two penalties across 904 snaps and earned Pro Bowl honors. An NFC executive emphasized that Slater excels against pressure and in schemes prioritizing movement over physicality. Additionally, rookie Joe Alt received honorable mention consideration after his first NFL season, with an AFC executive providing comments, though the specifics were not detailed in the report.
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The news reports on several Tottenham Hotspur-affiliated individuals spotted attending the Wimbledon tennis tournament. It highlights Tottenham CEO Vinai Venkatesham sitting in the prestigious and exclusive Royal Box during a women's quarterfinal match, seats described by Andre Agassi as the "rich people's seats" requiring significant wealth or special privilege. Tottenham Women's player Bethany England was also seen in the Royal Box ahead of a men's third-round match, with the author expressing surprise at her access given the tickets' exclusivity. Current Tottenham players James Maddison and Micky van de Ven were photographed at the tournament along with other Premier League players Eze and Bukayo Saka. The article contrasts their fresh appearance, likely due to VIP entry, with regular attendees who queue. Van de Ven's attire is noted as a "smart casual look" suitable for the hot weather. A separate image shows James Maddison meeting tennis player Carlos Alcaraz at Wimbledon.
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Ravens rookies report to the Under Armour Performance Center for training camp today, marking the start of the regular season. While the team has few roster holes, competition exists at several key positions. A breakout season from an under-the-radar player could be crucial for a Super Bowl run, with high expectations bolstered by the addition of elite talent across Zach Orr's defense. The Ravens added 11 players through the 2025 NFL Draft, highlighted by selecting safety Malaki Starks near the end of the first round. General Manager Eric DeCosta focused on draft value and acquiring prospects capable of developing into starters, regardless of their draft round. Following the draft, Baltimore signed 17 undrafted free agents, announcing these signings during the second day of rookie minicamp at their facility. The article profiles three specific players: Linebacker Jay Higgins (Iowa), an All-American and All-Big 10 selection, led his team with 124 tackles (53 solo), 2.5 TFLs, 1 sack, 9 PDs, and 4 INTs in his final season. Safety Franky Jackson (Illinois State), an FCS All-American, recorded 225 tackles (116 solo), 14 TFLs, 5.5 sacks, 5 INTs (2 TDs), and 13 PDs over 45 games. Defensive lineman Myles Anthony Rucker (North Carolina) had 14.5 sacks and 23 TFLs over his final two seasons, including 6 sacks and 8 TFLs in only 8 injury-affected games last year. Rucker (6-1, 254 lbs, 32 5/8" arms) is noted as an intriguing pass rusher who opted out of most athletic testing but completed 27 bench press reps. Regarding Starks, he is described as a "positional twin" to versatile defensive back Kyle Hamilton. ESPN Research notes Starks was the only FBS player over the last three seasons to play at least 1,500 snaps at safety and 500 snaps at slot cornerback.
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New Inter Milan manager Cristian Chivu is determined to revitalize the team following a disappointing 2024/25 season. Reports suggest tactical flexibility will be central to his plans for Inter's resurgence. Under previous manager Simone Inzaghi, Inter was known for tactical rigidity, specifically his unwavering commitment to a 3-5-2 formation. However, with Inzaghi now gone, Chivu aims to change the club's fortunes. While Chivu, like Inzaghi, favors a three-player defensive line, he brings a different vision for the club. He is reportedly open to making adjustments to the system. Consequently, Inter could deploy a slightly different formation next season, with Chivu prepared to implement a 3-4-2-1 setup. The report also notes the importance of forwards Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram to Inter's recent success.
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The Dallas Cowboys face potential contract negotiations with star player Micah Parsons. While Parsons has participated in offseason activities and maintained a positive relationship with new coach Brian Schottenheimer, unlike previous holdouts involving Ezekiel Elliott, Zack Martin, and CeeDee Lamb, complex negotiations remain. Parsons' new contract is expected to average over $40 million annually with significant guaranteed money exceeding $100 million. Whether this results in a holdout or a smoother resolution is uncertain. Jacksonville Jaguars rookie Travis Hunter, a unique two-way player drafted second overall, presents a challenge for coach Liam Coen regarding time allocation between offense and defense. The Jaguars plan to prioritize building his offensive foundation first, aligning with Coen's offensive background and GM James Gladstone's receiver-focused history. This approach contrasts with Hunter's college experience at Colorado, where he primarily focused on defense. Training camp will be crucial to understanding how Hunter's practice time is divided, offering insight into his regular-season role, as mastering NFL defense requires significant weekly preparation time. The Cleveland Browns face a demanding start to their season, with their first six games including five against 2023 playoff teams (Baltimore, Green Bay, Detroit, Minnesota, Pittsburgh) and an opener against the Cincinnati Bengals, a recent Super Bowl contender. This challenging early schedule raises questions about how the team will strategically deploy its quarterbacks.
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Both the Cleveland Browns and Carolina Panthers released quarterback Baker Mayfield in 2022. As the 2025 season approaches, neither team possesses a proven long-term starter at quarterback, while Mayfield, now with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, was recently ranked as the NFL's 10th-best quarterback by league executives, coaches, and scouts in an ESPN survey. An unnamed NFL personnel evaluator compared Mayfield's playing style to Hall of Famer Brett Favre, citing his "moxie" and aggressive "on the attack" mentality that defensive players feel. Like Favre, Mayfield is described as a "gunslinger" willing to put his body on the line to win. Since joining Tampa Bay, he has led the team to consecutive division titles and leads the NFL in regular-season touchdown passes (69) since Week 1 of the 2023 season. His performance also helped former Buccaneers offensive coordinators Dave Canales and Liam Coen secure head coaching jobs. Statistically, Mayfield finished the 2024 regular season ranked highly: third in passing yards (4,500), tied for second in passing touchdowns (41), third in completion percentage (71.4%), and fourth in passer rating (106.8). He has become the undisputed leader of Tampa Bay's offense and is positioned for a potential lucrative contract extension. The evaluator praised his fearlessness, leadership, underrated arm strength, mobility in the pocket, rushing ability, and effectiveness attacking deep when protected. Reflecting his success, the Mayfield-led Buccaneers are currently seventh in betting odds (+1300) to represent the NFC in Super Bowl LX. The article suggests that decision-makers in Cleveland and Carolina likely regret parting ways with Mayfield in 2022 given his current standing and their ongoing quarterback uncertainties.
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Luke Steckel has been retained as the Las Vegas Raiders' tight ends coach despite significant coaching staff changes implemented by new head coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Spytek. Steckel's return is unsurprising given his role in overseeing Brock Bowers' record-setting rookie season. Bowers, the Raiders' 2024 first-round pick, set NFL rookie records with 112 receptions and 1,194 receiving yards as a tight end in his debut season. Retaining Steckel provides crucial continuity for Bowers, Michael Mayer, and Justin Shorter in the tight end room during a regime change. Steckel expressed gratitude for the opportunity to remain with the Raiders, praising Carroll's high energy, positive mindset, and focus on culture. He now works alongside Carroll and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, whose offensive concepts are expected to be highly beneficial for the tight ends. Despite his relatively young age (40), Steckel emphasizes an old-school coaching philosophy for tight ends: they must earn opportunities in the passing game by excelling as blockers in the run game first. He believes tight ends are "blockers first." Improving the blocking skills of Bowers and Mayer, the Raiders' top tight ends, is seen as key to enhancing the offense. This is particularly relevant after the team used a high draft pick (6th overall in 2025) on running back Ashton Jeanty. While Bowers excelled as a receiver, refining his blocking presents an opportunity for growth.
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Trevor Lawrence entered the NFL with exceptional hype but has not yet developed into the elite quarterback many anticipated with the Jacksonville Jaguars. The team remains committed to him, undergoing significant changes including hiring offensive coordinator Liam Coen to elevate Lawrence's performance. ESPN analysts debated his future on "Get Up," questioning whether he can surpass his current average level. Dan Orlovsky highlighted Lawrence’s inconsistent QBR over three seasons and noted new factors like Coen’s arrival, standout rookie Brian Thomas Jr., and addition Travis Hunter. He emphasized Lawrence faces the most pressure of any AFC quarterback to improve consistency, leadership, and impact. Jeremy Fowler stated Lawrence is "not a bust" but isn’t progressing, citing organizational belief mixed with urgency due to Lawrence working under his third head coach in four to five years. Fowler acknowledged Jacksonville’s role in his struggles but stressed Lawrence must improve accuracy and week-to-week reliability. Damien Woody delivered a blunt assessment, calling 2025 a "now or never" season. He argued Lawrence’s high salary demands elite production, adding Coen was hired specifically to fix him. Woody concluded failure to deliver would make Lawrence a "bust."
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The article identifies three running backs fantasy managers should avoid drafting at their current ADP. First, Breece Hall (New York Jets) is highlighted due to significant concerns: his production declined sharply in 2024 (876 rushing yards), losing work to rookies Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis. New head coach Aaron Glenn plans to continue a multiple-back system in 2025. The addition of mobile quarterback Justin Fields will further reduce Hall's rushing attempts, and defenses focusing on stopping the run due to limited receiving threats will hinder him. Despite an ECR ranking of RB13, these hurdles make him a poor investment. Second, Tracy (New York Giants) is advised against. While he achieved over 1,000 all-purpose yards in 2024 and is a capable goal-line runner and pass-blocker, he faces stiff competition from rookie Cam Skattebo. Skattebo, a powerful and versatile back, is expected to immediately take over short-yardage and goal-line duties and could surpass Tracy on the depth chart. Tracy also struggled with fumbling (5 fumbles in 2024), and the Giants' tough 2025 schedule will likely force them into pass-heavy game scripts, limiting his opportunities. These factors present too many risks. Third, Jaylen Warren (Pittsburgh Steelers) is recommended as a pass. Despite Najee Harris's departure, the Steelers drafted dynamic rookie Kaleb Johnson. Johnson, coming off a stellar college season (1,725+ scrimmage yards, 23 TDs), is a powerful downhill runner suited to early-down and goal-line work. While Warren is a better receiver, Johnson's overall skillset and pass-blocking ability mean he will handle the primary rushing role. Warren is therefore relegated to his previous complementary role, making him only a weekly FLEX option in PPR leagues rather than a reliable RB3, especially if Johnson performs well.
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This collection of headlines covers diverse entertainment, lifestyle, and advice topics. It features nostalgic content with a list of 9 memorable Mr. Bean moments intended to uplift students during difficult times, alongside news about cinema halls reviving classic films through re-releases. Celebrity fashion and style are prominent, highlighting charismatic pictures of actor Chiranjeevi, 10 stunning ethnic looks showcased by Riythvika, floral fashion moments from actress Fatima Sana Shaikh, and the top 10 gorgeous looks inspired by Hina Khan. Health and wellness advice includes 7 diet secrets followed by badminton champion Saina Nehwal to maintain her fitness, a guide on making Korean hair serum for promoting hair growth, and a list of 9 foods known to lower the risk of cancer. Career guidance is also addressed with information on 8 college degrees predicted to have high placement rates in the year 2025.
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The Chicago Bears underwent significant roster changes during the 2025 NFL offseason following quarterback Caleb Williams' challenging rookie season. Newly extended general manager Ryan Poles made key personnel moves, including hiring head coach Ben Johnson from the Detroit Lions. Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning expressed strong belief in the potential partnership between Williams and Johnson. Speaking at Fanatics Fest in New York on July 11, Manning emphasized the value of continuity when a head coach calls plays, noting his own experience with a consistent offensive system for 14 years facilitates growth and avoids the difficulty of learning new schemes annually. Beyond the quarterback-coach pairing, the Bears made substantial offensive improvements. The interior offensive line was solidified through trades and a key free agency signing. Additionally, the team's first two 2025 NFL Draft selections were dynamic pass-catchers expected to contribute immediately in Johnson's offense. The entire coaching staff was also replaced after head coach Matt Eberflus was fired mid-season - a first in franchise history. Although Johnson wasn't hired when Williams arrived in 2024, his arrival is seen as crucial for unlocking Williams' potential. Manning noted Williams had two different play-callers during his rookie year, making his stats (over 3,000 yards, 20 touchdowns, 6 interceptions) a testament to his talent despite often looking lost. Both Williams and Johnson are actively working to build a long-term partnership, contrasting with the Bears' history of frequent quarterback and coach turnover. Williams specifically stated their goal is to stay together "for a while," acknowledging Johnson's demanding coaching style and their developing bond.
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Manchester City have extended their partnership with kit manufacturer Puma for at least another decade. Sources indicate this new deal is the highest-valued kit agreement in Premier League history. The new contract is worth £100 million ($134 million) per season, a significant increase from the initial £65 million per season agreement signed in 2019. Puma's original ten-year deal was set to expire in 2029-30, but the partnership has been extended following a successful period where City won eight major trophies in five years. City is now Puma's biggest commercial partner among their portfolio, which includes AC Milan, Marseille, Borussia Dortmund, Valencia, and Portugal. While described as potentially the largest known kit deal in English football history, details on commercial agreements are often limited. It is unclear whether the £100 million figure is guaranteed annually or dependent on performance targets being met, similar to Liverpool's new deal with Adidas which has a set floor that can increase. If City receive the full £100 million per season, this deal would surpass Manchester United's current £90 million per season agreement with Adidas. United's payment for the coming season, however, will be reduced to £80 million due to missing Champions League qualification. Under the previous Puma deal, City earned around £65 million annually and were ranked lowest in kit and merchandising revenue among the Premier League's 'big six' in 2023-24. A source explained this was due to City recognising revenue on a net basis through Puma's licensee 'stichd', whereas other clubs report gross revenue before costs. This new deal is expected to improve City's ranking significantly.
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Juventus and Smart Good Things Holding have launched a new collaboration, introducing the J Pay by Smart Wallet app. This innovative payment method, developed by Smart Good Things Holding, is designed to protect and enhance users' purchasing power. The 100% free solution will be available starting July 15th, initially for French fans and subsequently for Italian users. Adopting J Pay by Smart Wallet automatically creates a personal wallet for users. This wallet, set to be fully operational by year-end, will provide access to services and benefits aimed at sustainably boosting purchasing power for both the user and others. The app functions by growing the wallet balance with each everyday purchase transaction. Users can then choose how to utilize this balance: to purchase services or enjoy various benefits for themselves and loved ones. Juventus CEO Maurizio Scanavino expressed pleasure with the partnership, stating it confirms the club's commitment to innovation and aligns with their desire to be at the forefront. Serge Bueno, Chairman and CEO of Smart Good Things Holding, emphasized that the partnership demonstrates protective economics can extend to sport, reaching millions globally, with J Pay symbolizing this vision. Tony Parker, Deputy CEO of Smart Good Things Holding, added that the project transcends football, uniting a community around shared values and common solutions to improve everyday life.
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The Las Vegas Raiders have significantly evolved since relocating from Oakland, with owner Mark Davis reflecting on his father Al Davis's deep affection for the city. Al Davis frequently visited Las Vegas before training camp, enjoying workouts with his own weights, relaxing in the sun, and attending dinners and shows with his wife. Mark emphasized that his father was warmly received by locals during these trips. Mark Davis highlighted the Raiders' increased prominence in Las Vegas compared to Oakland, citing the city's transformation into the "sports and entertainment capital of the world." He expressed enthusiasm about the team's role in this new era. Additionally, Davis endorsed the upcoming move of the Las Vegas Athletics baseball team, believing it will enhance the city's infrastructure and appeal. Raiders Head Coach Pete Carroll credited the Davis family for the franchise's progress, specifically praising Mark Davis's leadership. Carroll noted Mark's strategic decision to bring in Tom Brady, leveraging his football legacy to create unique opportunities for the team and fans. He described the ownership group as "one of a kind" and expressed excitement about the immediate and long-term potential of this collaboration.
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Borussia Dortmund defender Yan Couto has expressed his intention to remain with the club for the upcoming season. Despite a challenging first year at BVB, the 23-year-old Brazilian right-back is committed to fighting for his place in manager Niko Kovac's squad and aims to disprove his critics. Couto made 35 appearances across all competitions during his debut season, primarily as a substitute. He recorded one assist in the DFB-Pokal while featuring in 21 Bundesliga matches, 8 Champions League fixtures, and 1 domestic cup game. Additionally, he played all five of Dortmund's Club World Cup matches, including their quarterfinal defeat to Real Madrid. Originally joining on loan from Manchester City in August, Dortmund permanently signed Couto in October by activating his €30 million release clause. His current contract with the club extends until 2030. For the next season, Couto will compete with Julian Ryerson for the starting right-back position. His versatility allows him to also operate as a right wing-back should Kovac implement a three-man defensive formation.
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Newcastle United are negotiating a potential deal to sign Eintracht Frankfurt forward Hugo Ekitike for approximately €75 million. While an agreement has not been reached yet, talks between the clubs are ongoing. This fee would surpass Newcastle's current record transfer, the €71.2 million paid for Alexander Isak in 2022. Newcastle previously attempted to sign Ekitike in January 2022 for over £20 million, but the deadline day move collapsed. Despite this, the club maintained interest in the 23-year-old player. Ekitike joined Frankfurt permanently in summer 2024 for €17.5 million after a loan spell from Paris Saint-Germain. In the 2024-25 season, he scored 22 goals and provided 12 assists for Frankfurt. Ekitike, currently contracted to Frankfurt until 2029, has been pursued by Newcastle before. In January 2022, while at Reims, he hesitated about a late move to Newcastle despite a framework agreement between the clubs, eventually joining PSG on loan that summer before the move was made permanent. Should he leave Frankfurt now, it would be the club's third major attacker sale in two years, following Omar Marmoush's €70-75m move to Manchester City and Randal Kolo Muani's €95m transfer to PSG. Ekitike's 15 Bundesliga goals in 2024-25 tied him with former teammate Marmoush for the season. He played a key role in Frankfurt securing a third-place finish in the Bundesliga, qualifying the club for the Champions League for only the second time in their history via league position. He also scored in their Europa League semi-final aggregate defeat (2-1) to eventual champions Tottenham Hotspur. Other clubs have shown interest in Ekitike this summer, with Manchester United enquiring about his availability and Chelsea being interested before signing other forwards.
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The Houston Texans' decision to fully guarantee second-round receiver Jayden Higgins' contract has created division among NFL teams and their unsigned second-round draft picks. Only two of this year's 32 second-round selections—Higgins and Cleveland Browns' Carson Schwesinger—have finalized contracts so far. This split is intensifying as the Detroit Lions and Los Angeles Chargers, who will play in the Hall of Fame Game, begin early training camp. Chargers receiver Tre Harris is officially holding out from camp, while a Lions offensive lineman is expected to follow suit when rookies report. The Los Angeles Rams situation highlights the broader issue: though most Rams rookies signed contracts on May 10, second-round tight end Terrance Ferguson remains unsigned despite fourth-round pick Jarquez Hunter finalizing his deal in late May. With 30 second-round picks still unsigned league-wide and two already holding out, Ferguson risks missing the start of Rams practices. Ferguson's potential absence could significantly impact his development, as the tight end position has a steep learning curve. Any delayed start might reduce his opportunities to earn offensive playing time. This developing situation warrants close attention ahead of the Rams' July 22 training camp report date.
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Arsenal is attempting to secure young midfielder Ethan Nwaneri, 18, to a new contract as his current deal expires next summer, with the club adamant they do not want to sell him. However, Football Insider exclusively reports that Arsenal would demand £50million if a sale occurs, naming London rivals Chelsea as an interested party. Nwaneri recently shared Instagram pictures showing him beginning pre-season preparations with Arsenal, who are currently training in Spain before touring Singapore and Hong Kong. His post, captioned "Good work away with the team, ready," received likes from prominent teammates including Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka. This return follows his participation in England Under-21s' European Championship victory just two weeks prior. Despite returning to training, Nwaneri has yet to decide on his future. While manager Mikel Arteta gave him first-team opportunities last season due to injuries, Arsenal's summer transfer activity has increased squad depth, potentially limiting Nwaneri's playing time next campaign. The expected arrival of Noni Madueke provides competition in Bukayo Saka's position, a role Nwaneri previously filled. Although capable as a number 10, captain Martin Odegaard occupies that spot, making it difficult for Nwaneri to secure minutes there. Consequently, a move away from Arsenal might offer better prospects for his development and regular playing time.
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Real Madrid could accelerate the transfer of Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté to this season, despite initial expectations of a 2026 move on a free transfer. Konaté, whose contract expires in 2025, has reportedly informed Liverpool he is open to leaving this summer. The club officially announced the signing of 20-year-old Moroccan striker Rachad Fettal from Almería. Fettal will join Real Madrid Castilla. Luka Modrić's move to AC Milan is nearing completion, with a medical scheduled for Monday. The Croatian midfielder is set to sign a one-year contract with the Italian club after leaving Real Madrid. Forward Rodrygo is attracting significant interest. Arsenal and Chelsea have held talks with his representatives, while Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich are also interested. Bayern Munich reportedly submitted an offer following an injury to Jamal Musiala and after missing out on Nico Williams. Real Madrid rejected a substantial offer from Manchester United for midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni. The Premier League club's bid was reportedly around €78 million (£78 million/$105 million). Tchouaméni is viewed as a crucial player under new manager Xabi Alonso.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams participated in a team survey about the reality show Love Island, nominating teammates Kyler Gordon and John Jackson III as potential contestants. Both 25-year-old players fit the show's demographic, with Jackson explicitly expressing enthusiasm about swapping football for "villa drama." The Bears' Instagram post revealed Williams' selections while noting an NFL appearance could boost the already popular series. The team survey included three questions: First, players voted for their favorite Love Island cast members, with Amaya receiving three votes, Ace and Taylor each getting two, and Clarke and Nic as honorable mentions. Second, 92% of Bears players chose money over love when given the option, contradicting expectations that wealthy athletes might prioritize relationships. For the final question about which teammate should appear on Love Island, Williams reacted with surprise when his own name was suggested, responding "Me???" before nominating Gordon and Jackson. Gordon received three nominations and humorously referenced his football persona while tagging Jackson, calling it a "HOF season." Jackson actively campaigned for himself with a "me no cap" response and later posted "Let's talk about it," confirming his interest in joining the show.
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The Chicago Bears are undergoing a significant reboot under new head coach Ben Johnson, creating a volatile situation until the team settles. This process requires actual hitting, training camp conditions, and games, going beyond offseason activities to build winning team chemistry. Predicting outcomes is difficult until the team is seen executing plays fully. A key volatile element is the defensive secondary's shift in coverage schemes. The Bears are moving towards significantly more man-to-man coverage and less zone coverage. However, the current secondary was groomed primarily for heavy zone schemes with little man experience, creating an adjustment challenge. Players like cornerback Tyrique Stevenson express liking man coverage because it makes accountability clear – if a play breaks down, the fault is immediately apparent, allowing for individual technique improvement. Coaches will also quickly see who is at fault. Offensively, Ben Johnson's system, demonstrated in Detroit, frequently targeted the slot receiver or move tight end. The Bears face adjustments here as well. Their primary receiver, D.J. Moore, is traditionally an X-receiver, not a slot specialist like Detroit's Amon-Ra St. Brown. While Moore has played slot and even lined up in the backfield, the team drafted tight end Colston Loveland to potentially fill the move tight end role and signed Olamide Zaccheaus while also having Luther Burden III as potential slot receiver options.
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