Jalen Williams scored 27 points, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 121-109 victory over the Toronto Raptors on Friday night.
While Williams and All-Star teammate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (25 points) played key roles, the game was special because of the return of second-year player Chet Holmgren. Holmgren, who had been out since a pelvic injury on Nov. 10, made his comeback with four points, five rebounds, four blocks, and two steals in 22 minutes.
Scottie Barnes led the Raptors with 21 points as they lost their third straight game. Gradey Dick added 17 points.
Hornets 117, Spurs 116
Miles Bridges made a 3-pointer with 1.4 seconds left, giving the Charlotte Hornets a tight win over the San Antonio Spurs to end a six-game losing streak.
Bridges finished with 25 points, and LaMelo Ball added 24 points with 10 assists in his return from an ankle injury.
Rookie Stephon Castle scored a career-high 33 points for the Spurs, while Victor Wembanyama had 16 points, 11 rebounds, and five blocks.
Nets 102, Heat 86
Cameron Johnson scored 18 points as the Brooklyn Nets dominated the fourth quarter to defeat the Miami Heat, who played their first game after trading Jimmy Butler.
D’Angelo Russell contributed 17 points, and Nic Claxton added 12 points, 10 rebounds, and four of Brooklyn’s 13 blocks. The Nets shot 14-of-26 in the final period to outscore Miami 31-9.
Terry Rozier led the Heat with 20 points, and Bam Adebayo added 18 points.
Pistons 125, 76ers 112
Malik Beasley set a career-high with 36 points, leading the Detroit Pistons to a win over the Philadelphia 76ers.
Tobias Harris added 22 points and nine rebounds as Detroit snapped a two-game losing streak. All-Star Cade Cunningham was scratched late due to an ankle injury.
Boston Celtics and Detroit Pistons (NBA)
Tyrese Maxey scored 27 points and had seven assists for the 76ers. Joel Embiid contributed 23 points, seven rebounds, and six assists.
Cavaliers 134, Wizards 124
Donovan Mitchell scored 33 points, and Evan Mobley added 27 as the Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Washington Wizards.
Darius Garland finished with 23 points, and Max Strus scored 17 in Cleveland’s sixth win in seven games.
Despite Jordan Poole’s career-high 45 points, Washington lost their season-high three-game win streak. Kyshawn George scored 17 points.
Hawks 115, Bucks 110
Mouhamed Gueye had his first career double-double to help the Atlanta Hawks beat the Milwaukee Bucks.
Gueye scored a season-high 15 points and grabbed 12 rebounds with four blocks, playing extended minutes due to trade-deadline absences.
Trae Young added 24 points and seven assists and sealed the game with a key steal in the final 34 seconds. The Bucks were without Giannis Antetokounmpo due to a calf injury. Bobby Portis led with 26 points and 15 rebounds, while Damian Lillard contributed 23 points, nine rebounds, and 10 assists.
Canelo’s potential payday against Paul could surpass his earnings from previous fights (Netflix)
Jake Paul and Canelo Álvarez are nearing the completion of a deal for a cruiserweight bout scheduled for May 3 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, as reported by ESPN’s Mike Coppinger.
The fight is expected to occur at the 200-pound limit and will be available for streaming on Netflix. This announcement follows comments from Matchroom Sport’s Eddie Hearn, who claimed that the primary details of the highly anticipated match have been settled.
Boxing fans left disappointed as Canelo’s fight with Crawford collapses (Netflix)
Hearn informed Ring Magazine’s Louis Hart that he believes the matchup between Canelo and Paul is “done.” Additionally, boxing insider Dan Rafael shared on Wednesday that the two fighters are in the preliminary stages of discussions for the May 3 event in Las Vegas.
Canelo’s Change in Focus
The progress with Paul’s team may shed light on why Canelo’s highly anticipated megafight with Terence Crawford fell apart so quickly. In January, Coppinger reported that arrangements were aligning for Álvarez and Crawford to clash during the weekend of Mexican Independence Day in September.
On Monday, Coppinger and Ring Magazine’s Keith Idec both indicated that negotiations were nearing completion. However, by Thursday, Idec reported that the fight was entirely off.
This sudden change was a considerable disappointment for boxing enthusiasts who had long desired to see Canelo and Crawford face off in the ring.
Álvarez’s move in focus to Paul may further frustrate fans, as the YouTuber-turned-boxer has yet to demonstrate that he is a formidable challenger capable of going up against one of the top pound-for-pound fighters in the sport.
Financial Implications
However, the matchup between Canelo and Paul is projected to be a substantial financial success, which is likely a primary consideration for Álvarez.
He reportedly earned around $35 million for his unanimous-decision win over Edgar Berlanga in September. Facing Paul would likely yield him more than the reported $45 million he made for the final bout in his trilogy with Gennady Golovkin.
The super middleweight champion will also have an open schedule in the fall, allowing him to resume discussions with Crawford or pursue another opponent who could enhance his legacy.
After a whirlwind week featuring high-profile trades like those of Luka Doncic and Anthony Davis, many critics are questioning whether any NBA players remain beyond the reach of a trade. With teams striving to assemble the most competitive rosters possible for a shot at the championship, it appears that no player is truly safe from being moved.
Nevertheless, former NBA player DeMarcus Cousins asserts that there is one individual he considers untouchable. He believes that if this player were to be traded, it could have far-reaching consequences for the sport of basketball.
DeMarcus Cousins names Wembanyama as the only untouchable player in the NBA (United States of America)
“There’s one guy that’s untouchable; the freak down in San Antonio,” Cousins stated on “Run It Back.” He further emphasized, “If you trade Wemby, you’ll never be around the game of basketball again…at any level.”
Wembanyama’s Unmatched Talent
Wembanyama’s size and talent lend credence to Cousins’ assertion. However, the conversation revolves around potential trade scenarios. What happens if the French center decides against re-signing with the Spurs once his current rookie contract expires?
Currently, Wembanyama is in the second year of his four-year, $55 million contract with San Antonio, and he won’t become a restricted free agent until the 2027-28 season. This arrangement allows the Spurs to match any offers he might receive once his current contract concludes.
The salaries of players are expected to reach staggering heights by that time. If current trends persist, Wembanyama could potentially become a basketball billionaire, making him the first NBA player to earn $1 billion solely through contracts.
While accumulating wealth is undoubtedly appealing, Wembanyama will also require support from his team. The Spurs have begun this process by acquiring De’Aaron Fox in a three-way deal. The addition of the talented Kentucky standout is anticipated to create opportunities for Wembanyama.
Spurs’ Path to Playoff Relevance
Chris Broussard of Fox Sports noted, “This will be the first teammate for Wemby that draws the attention of the defense somewhat away from him. Obviously, he’s going to be the focal point, but he’s another guy that will draw double teams and draw attention, and that should open things up for Wemby.”
If Wembanyama is traded, basketball could face irreversible changes according to Cousins (San Antonio Spurs)
As of now, the Spurs hold a record of 22-26, placing them 12th in the Western Conference. This total matches their win count from the previous two seasons combined.
With 34 games remaining, it will be intriguing to see if Wembanyama’s impressive performance, combined with Fox’s arrival, can enhance the Spurs’ chances. San Antonio has not reached the playoffs since the 2018-19 season.
Achieving a playoff berth this season would signify a famous accomplishment for the Spurs, indicating that the team is moving in the right direction. However, for San Antonio to genuinely contend for a championship again, further time and development are still necessary.
Saudi clubs are ready to test Vinicius Junior's loyalty with lucrative offers (Real Madrid)
Vinicius Junior has turned down a new contract from Real Madrid despite growing interest from Saudi Arabian clubs. At just 24 years old, Vinicius is earning an impressive £12.5 million annually with Real, under a contract that runs until 2027, featuring a staggering release clause of €1 billion (£830 million).
His talent has attracted attention from Saudi teams, who are reportedly ready to make a substantial offer approaching his demanding price.
Following initial discussions last summer, meetings between Vinicius’ representatives and Saudi officials took place in December, prompting Real Madrid to initiate negotiations to secure a long-term deal for the Brazilian forward, aiming to fend off the Saudi Pro League’s financial allure.
Reynolds continues to expand his sports portfolio with interests in multiple franchises (Getty Images)
Ryan Reynolds Eyeing Vancouver Whitecaps
The Mirror suggests that Ryan Reynolds may be considering another takeover, this time targeting his hometown club, the Vancouver Whitecaps. The MLS team is reportedly available for purchase as current owners explore their options, which could pave the way for Reynolds to make a bid.
Fans of the Canadian franchise have been urging the Hollywood actor to assemble a group to buy out the existing ownership after it was announced that they are open to offers.
Alongside Rob McElhenney, Reynolds harbors ambitions of leading Wrexham, the club they co-own, to the Premier League and is ready to support that vision financially.
They also participated in a consortium last year with actress Eva Longoria and baseball player Justin Verlander to acquire a minority stake in Mexican team Club Necaxa. Additionally, Reynolds previously explored the possibility of supporting a bid to buy NHL franchise Ottawa Senators.
Derby County Pursue Blackburn’s John Eustace
Derby County is reportedly eyeing Blackburn Rovers’ esteemed manager John Eustace as they continue their search for a permanent head coach. Following the sacking of Paul Warne, the Rams are expected to pursue Eustace, although they would need to compensate Blackburn to secure his services.
The Telegraph indicates that Blackburn Rovers are preparing for Derby County’s inquiry regarding manager John Eustace. After Warne’s dismissal on Friday, Eustace’s chances of moving to Pride Park increased, with the former Derby player gaining popularity among the Rams’ supporters.
It remains unclear if Derby has contacted Blackburn yet, but acquiring Eustace would require compensation, as he is under contract at Ewood Park until 2026.
If Blackburn agrees to the approach, Derby would prefer to have Eustace in place before their crucial league match against Oxford United on Tuesday, especially after parting ways with Warne just a day before their game against Norwich.
Brighton’s Failed Bid for Clement Bischoff
Brighton & Hove Albion’s anticipated signing of young Brondby midfielder Clement Bischoff appears to have fallen through. According to The Athletic, the 19-year-old is no longer set to join The Seagulls after negotiations between the clubs broke down.
Brighton had previously arranged a deal valued at approximately €8 million ($8.33 million; £6.65 million) to bring the Denmark youth international on board this summer. Bischoff, who can play as a left-sided midfielder or left-back, will not be making the move to Brighton as the two sides failed to finalize the agreement.
If you’re looking to meet an NBA scout this weekend, head to College Park, Md.
That’s where over 30 recruiters are expected to be when Ace Bailey, Dylan Harper, and Rutgers visit star freshman Derik Queen and No. 18 Maryland on Sunday afternoon.
All three players are expected to be first-round picks in this summer’s NBA draft. Guards Bailey and Harper are both top-five prospects, while Queen is projected to be selected later in the first round by a team needing a top-tier big man.
The Scarlet Knights have leaned on their two standout freshmen throughout a mixed season.
Bailey leads the team with 20.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game, while Harper leads Rutgers with 4.1 assists and 1.2 steals per game.
Harper also averages 19.1 points per game, the second-highest on the team, with no other player scoring more than 7.2 points per game.
Despite Bailey and Harper’s strong performances, Rutgers (12-11, 5-7 Big Ten) has struggled to get consistent wins in its effort to return to the NCAA Tournament’s Round of 64 for the first time in four years.
The Scarlet Knights have only had back-to-back wins twice since starting the season 4-0, and Harper’s struggles with the flu and an ankle injury in January didn’t help.
However, Rutgers has shown it can be dangerous when both Harper and Bailey are healthy.
Harper returned from a two-game absence to score 28 points, grab six rebounds, dish out five assists, and steal four balls, while Bailey added 18 points and 11 rebounds in the Scarlet Knights’ 82-73 victory over No. 23 Illinois on Wednesday.
This was Rutgers’ first win against a ranked team this season and strengthened the chemistry between its two star players.
“It opens a lot for me,” Bailey said about having Harper back. “I don’t have to worry about two or three people trying to box me out at the same time because they have to worry about D-Harp attacking. … And that opens up a lot more for our teammates.”
Maryland and No. 17 Wisconsin
Another win over a ranked opponent on Sunday could end the Terrapins’ brief stay in the Top 25.
Maryland (17-6, 7-5) moved into the rankings for the first time in nearly two years after winning six of seven games, but they followed that up with a 73-70 loss at Ohio State, after blowing a 17-point lead on Thursday.
Queen, who leads the team with 15 points per game, attempted just seven shots from the field and finished with 13 points and eight rebounds, while fellow big man Julian Reese (14.1 ppg, 9.3 rpg) contributed 24 points and 13 rebounds in the loss.
Maryland struggled to contain the Buckeyes’ guards.
The Terrapins did well limiting John Mobley Jr. to eight points on 3-of-12 shooting, but allowed Micah Parrish to score 13 on 5-of-9 shooting. Bruce Thornton did the most damage, hitting 11 of 18 shots, including the game-winning 3-pointer, finishing with a game-high 31 points.
Thornton’s strong performance could be concerning for Maryland with the upcoming matchup against Harper and Bailey, but the Terrapins aren’t too worried about defending a team’s top backcourt players.
“I thought we did a really good job for the most part (defending Thornton),” said Maryland coach Kevin Willard. “Even when he made a couple of tough twos, we were OK with that. … I thought our defense at the end was really good. We switched out. We covered everything.”
No. 17 Memphis has had a few close games this season, with just one loss, putting them at the top of the American Athletic Conference.
The Tigers will get a chance to make up for that loss on Sunday afternoon when they play Temple again in another conference game.
When the teams met on Jan. 16 in Philadelphia, Temple pulled off an 88-81 upset by doing two key things: Outshooting Memphis from beyond the 3-point line and dominating the rebounding game.
Temple made 9 of 22 3-pointers, while Memphis made only 6 of 21. The Owls also grabbed 49 rebounds compared to Memphis’s 25, with 6-foot-4 senior guard Shane Dezonie leading the way with 13 rebounds and 15 points.
Since then, Memphis (19-4, 9-1) has managed to win its close games, including three decided by four points or less, and coming from behind on Jan. 23 to beat Wichita State 61-53 at home.
In their most recent game, Memphis won 83-71 against Tulsa, pulling ahead in the final 10 minutes. Guard PJ Haggerty scored 23 points in his first game against his former team. Haggerty, who averaged 21.2 points last season for Tulsa, is now averaging 21.7 points per game and has hit 51.1% of his field goals.
Despite Haggerty’s consistency, Tigers coach Penny Hardaway felt the need to check in on him before the game against Tulsa.
“Playing your old team, they’re mad that he left,” Hardaway said. “And they were going to try to take him out of the game.”
That didn’t work, nor did any defense on Dain Dainja. The Illinois transfer had 21 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 blocks, and 3 steals, boosting his scoring average to 12.2 points per game.
No. 19 Memphis and Rice
Memphis increased its Division I-best 3-point percentage to 40.3% by hitting 9 of 21 from beyond the arc (42.9%) and finished with 56.7% shooting from the field (34 of 60).
As Memphis extended its winning streak to six games, Temple (14-9, 6-4) played without its top scorer, Jamal Mashburn Jr., in a 100-91 double-overtime loss at South Florida on Thursday.
Mashburn, who is averaging a career-high 22.1 points per game, has a foot injury, and his status for the Memphis game is uncertain.
Without Mashburn, Zion Stanford and Steve Settle III stepped up. Stanford scored a team-high 23 points off the bench, nearly doubling his average, and Settle added a 21-point, 10-rebound double-double.
Settle’s performance didn’t surprise Mashburn.
“I see him put in the work every single day, and he’s a great, terrific player,” Mashburn said. “He’s really a key piece.”
However, Settle’s efforts weren’t enough to prevent Temple from losing for the third time in five games. Defense has been a major issue during this stretch, as they’ve allowed an average of 89.4 points per game.
Temple’s win over Memphis last month was the first in the last seven meetings, with Memphis leading the series 15-12.
Key trades could reshape the draft order and impact team futures (Colorado Buffaloes)
The unpredictability of the NFL draft makes it a challenge to project, regardless of the effort put in. Unforeseen events can arise and disrupt the entire proceedings, often leading to unexpected outcomes that spark excitement.
Last year’s draft serves as a prime example; not a single person outside the Atlanta Falcons organization anticipated that they would select quarterback Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth pick after signing Kirk Cousins in free agency just a month prior. Fast forward a year, and Cousins is likely leaving while Penix is set to lead the team moving forward.
Last year’s shocking pick by the Falcons set the stage for a new era (Atlanta Falcons)
Teams have two distinct strategies for approaching the draft. They can either wait for the draft to reveal or proactively move up to target specific prospects they deem a good fit.
Some franchises prefer to stockpile draft picks, while others are more inclined to consolidate their selections in order to secure their targets. No single method guarantees success in assembling a winning team. At some point, a team will inevitably trade up based on available prospects and its own needs.
Currently, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment when forecasting potential trades that might alter the order and influence how the draft comes to play. Five specific trades stand out as particularly likely to create vital moves.
Las Vegas Raiders Trade Up for QB Shedeur Sanders
Chad Brinker, president of football operations, has stated that the Tennessee Titans cannot pass on a “generational talent” with the first pick.
However, it is evident that such a prospect does not exist in the 2025 class, leading the team to focus on drafting a quarterback. The decisions made following this pivotal moment will be the most compelling aspect of this year’s draft class.
QB Shedeur Sanders (Colorado Buffaloes)
With the second pick, the Cleveland Browns find themselves in a challenging situation. They are aware that they will remain entangled in the Deshaun Watson situation for at least another year or two. Selecting a quarterback makes sense, but the front office might attempt a temporary solution to appease star player Myles Garrett and pursue short-term victories.
If this is the case, the second pick becomes a prime candidate for a potential trade-down, allowing general manager Andrew Berry to leverage the selection for a bounty of picks that could help rejuvenate a struggling roster.
Given that the Las Vegas Raiders failed to acquire a quarterback last year, they should seize the chance to trade up this time around. This missed opportunity last year cost them a critical rebuilding season and possibly their coaching staff.
Bleacher Report’s Scouting Department ranks Miami’s Cam Ward as the top quarterback prospect, making him a likely candidate for the Titans with their first pick. Subsequently, the Raiders could set their sights on Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders.
The existing connection between Sanders and Raiders minority owner Tom Brady further solidifies this fit. Brady has had a huge influence on many of the team’s offseason decisions, making this potential pairing appealing for both parties. The Raiders simply need to go through the draft process effectively to realize this opportunity.
Dallas Cowboys Trade Ahead of Chicago Bears to Draft RB Ashton Jeanty
Jerry Jones, owner and general manager of the Dallas Cowboys, often surprises with his decisions. The need for a running back is evident, but it remains questionable whether they should pursue the class’s top ball-carrier. However, dismissing this possibility would be unwise.
RB Ashton Jeanty (Boise State Broncos)
Ashton Jeanty had an outstanding final season at college, coming close to Barry Sanders’ all-time rushing record while finishing second in the Heisman Trophy voting. His exceptional vision and balance in contact set him apart as a remarkable talent.
Historically, Jones has not shied away from selecting elite running backs. He chose Ezekiel Elliott with the fourth pick in the 2016 NFL draft and has also drafted Emmitt Smith and Felix Jones in the first round of their respective classes.
While Jeanty could logically be available for the Cowboys with the 12th pick, there is a risk that the Chicago Bears might select him at 10, potentially prompting a major move from Dallas.
Ben Johnson, the Bears’ new head coach, previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions. The Lions opted to enhance their running back situation by trading D’Andre Swift and drafting Jahmyr Gibbs with the 12th pick in the 2023 class.
After Swift’s departure to the Philadelphia Eagles, who then signed with the Bears, Johnson may be looking to acquire another key playmaker for the backfield. Jeanty offers a different skill set compared to Gibbs, which the Cowboys must consider as they ponder a trade for the premier running back in this draft class.
Given the criticism he faced for his inactivity last season, Jones might be eager to make a bold move to bolster his team.
Denver Broncos Jump Ahead of Indianapolis Colts for TE Tyler Warren
A popular prediction already involves the Indianapolis Colts as they search for a top tight end. However, what if another team recognizes that need and acts accordingly?
TE Tyler Warren (Penn State Nittany Lions)
Chris Ballard, the Colts’ general manager, was candid about the necessity for offensive support to aid quarterback Anthony Richardson’s development. “We didn’t get enough production from [the team’s tight ends],” Ballard remarked during his end-of-season interview.
“Our inability to control the middle of the field is something we need to address; I must provide Shane (Steichen) and the coaching staff with a player who can dominate that area and force defenses to account for him.”
In a robust tight end class, Tyler Warren from Penn State stands out as the most versatile weapon. He accumulated over 100 receptions and 1,200 receiving yards en route to winning the John Mackey Award. His ability to be deployed in various formations makes him a legitimate offensive asset and potential primary target.
In the current draft order, the Colts, picking 14th, are likely the first team poised to select a tight end. Yet, another franchise could leap ahead of them.
The Denver Broncos also possess a young quarterback who requires a reliable target in the middle of the field to aid his growth. Last season, their quartet of Adam Trautman, Lucas Krull, Nate Atkins, and Greg Dulcich combined for a meager total of 51 receptions for 483 yards.
Warren could emerge as a transformative player in Sean Payton’s offensive scheme, but the Broncos may need to move up from their 20th pick to secure him.
If that occurs, the Colts might not prioritize Michigan’s Colston Loveland and could instead opt to find a tight end on Day 2, potentially redirecting their strategy for the latter half of the first round toward selecting a defensive back or another position that could influence other teams’ choices.
New Orleans Saints Trade Back into 1st Round for QB
A clear distinction exists between the first and second tiers of this year’s quarterback class. Demand will surpass supply this offseason, prompting some organizations to seek creative solutions for enhancing their position at this critical role.
As Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders come off the board, teams will begin to evaluate the next tier of quarterbacks and determine how to construct a roster around them.
Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders (Miami Hurricanes/Colorado Buffaloes)
The New Orleans Saints present an intriguing case. They hold the ninth draft pick, yet Derek Carr’s presence under contract does not equate to him being the long-term solution, nor does Spencer Rattler appear to be the answer.
Five franchises in need of a quarterback sit ahead of the Saints in the draft order. Uncertainty surrounds Carr’s viability as an option, especially with the organization yet to appoint a new head coach, although Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore is a frontrunner for the position.
If the Saints cannot secure a quarterback with their initial selection, general manager Mickey Loomis can orchestrate the draft to target his preferred choice. Loomis is known for pursuing players he covets without hesitation, even in a smaller draft class.
Consequently, the Saints should consider moving back into the first round to select a quarterback they believe can serve as their future starter. Candidates such as Alabama’s Jalen Milroe, Ole Miss’ Jaxson Dart, and Ohio State’s Will Howard are all viable options.
What motivates this decision to trade back into the first round?
For starters, it allows them to outmaneuver any other desperate teams that may have missed earlier opportunities to draft a quarterback. Additionally, first-round selections come with the benefit of a fifth-year rookie option on the player’s contract, enhancing both financial and roster flexibility.
Franchises positioned in the latter half of the first round often consider trading back, recognizing that the number of first-round talents doesn’t always extend into those final selections. In the case of the Saints, their urgent need for a quarterback outweighs the perceived value of available picks.
Cleveland Browns Trade Myles Garrett for Extra Draft Picks
Myles Garrett’s recent trade request will depend on his genuine desire to join a Super Bowl contender. Should he truly wish to facilitate a trade to a competitive team, the Browns will have little choice but to accommodate his request.
Two critical deadlines will have implications for this situation: one affecting the draft, and the other not.
Myles Garrett (Cleveland Browns)
On March 15, Garrett is set to receive a $5 million bonus. Should he refuse to restructure or defer that bonus, the Browns might consider moving him before that date. However, if he is open to reworking his contract, the team could keep him content or wait until after June 1 to lessen the impact of any salary-cap hits.
Given Garrett’s expressed intentions, it stands to reason that nearly every team in the league will reach out to Browns general manager Andrew Berry. A deal could materialize before the aforementioned date, impacting this year’s draft’s first round.
Any agreement reached is likely to involve one or more first-round draft picks, granting the Browns considerable flexibility in the draft process.
Garrett’s request for a trade stems from his awareness that he deserves to contend for championships, which he has yet to achieve during his time in Cleveland. Conversely, the Browns must consider whether it is worth parting with their superstar defensive player while seeking immediate solutions.
If Berry decides to move Garrett, the ramifications will extend beyond just the team. The league’s environment could move dramatically, affecting how teams pursue their roster decisions during the offseason.
Teams must remain alert and adaptable as the draft approaches, particularly as the value of their current picks fluctuates based on available players. Recognizing the ebb and flow of prospects will provide opportunities for franchises to raise their rosters.
Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has never beat Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes
Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio is very familiar with Patrick Mahomes, but that might not be a good thing heading into Super Bowl LIX.
Mahomes has faced a Fangio defense eight times, and the Chiefs won all eight games.
“He’s won the chess match against me, the final score,” Fangio said this week. “We’ll see if we can come up with something.”
Fangio, like Steve Spagnuolo of the Chiefs, is considered one of the best defensive coordinators in NFL history. He started his NFL career as a linebackers coach for the New Orleans Saints in 1986, and he’s been coaching in the NFL almost every season since. However, he has never won a Super Bowl.
It’s interesting that Fangio now has a chance to complete the missing piece of his coaching career in the city where his NFL journey began, and it’s happening against the quarterback he hasn’t been able to figure out yet.
Patrick Mahomes looking forward to the chess match
This week, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid was asked who his biggest rivals were when it came to calling plays.
“This guy we’re playing this week is a pretty good defensive coordinator,” Reid said, referring to Fangio. “I feel like I can’t get rid of him.”
Many of Fangio’s experiences against Mahomes and Reid came during Fangio’s time as head coach of the Denver Broncos. Fangio could never get a win over Kansas City, but the Broncos never had a team strong enough to compete with the Chiefs during that time.
Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce arrive for the Super Bowl 50 Opening Night
Still, it’s worth noting that Mahomes hasn’t been troubled by Fangio’s defense. In their eight matchups (six with Denver, two with the Miami Dolphins, including a playoff game when Fangio was their defensive coordinator), Mahomes threw 10 touchdowns and just two interceptions. He posted a passer rating of 100 or higher in four of those games, and a rating of 93.9 or better in two others.
Even though Mahomes has had success against Fangio’s defenses, he knows it’s always a challenge.
“Every time I’ve played Coach Fangio, there has been different changeups and different things that he has thrown at us, and I think that’s what makes him so great,” Mahomes said. “He’s not going to just do exactly what you saw the last time. I’m sure there will be blitzes in the game, I’m sure there will be times when they play coverage.
It’s going to be a chess match. You want to go up against the best and he’s one of the best defensive coordinators in the NFL. It’ll be a great challenge for us as an offense, and as a football team.”
Fangio’s defense has been elite
This time, Fangio has a team that can compete with Mahomes. The Eagles have won 15 of their last 16 games since the end of September, and much of that success is because of Fangio’s defense, which allowed the fewest yards in the NFL this season.
The Eagles didn’t start strong, but Fangio was adjusting to his first year with the team, and his defensive scheme takes time to learn. Eventually, it clicked.
“Once we picked it up, we took it and ran with it,” Eagles safety Reed Blankenship said.
The Eagles have performed well against some strong quarterbacks, but Mahomes presents a different challenge. Fangio can try to confuse Mahomes, but he says it’s difficult.
Kansas City Chiefs players celebrate in the 1st half
“I think the one thing about Mahomes that gets overlooked and not appreciated because of his great talent and everything he does that’s visible to everybody, his knowledge in pre-snap processing and post-snap processing is elite,” Fangio said. “I don’t think he gets enough credit for the intelligence part of the game that he has mastered.”
Instead, Fangio says the key is focusing on the basics. He must avoid losing a pass-rushing lane that would allow Mahomes to break free for a big run. He has to avoid making mistakes in coverage, and he’ll likely have some well-timed blitzes ready in hopes of getting a big play.
“I’ve always said the definition of a great quarterback, which he obviously is, there is no one way to play him,” Fangio said. “So you’ve got to mix it up, because he’s tremendous and if he can settle in on what you’re doing, he’ll figure it out.”
Fangio has great respect for Mahomes, who has already proven himself as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time and has the championships to back it up. Fangio has a talented defense, and he’s ready to do everything he can to finally beat Mahomes.
“There is no secret,” Fangio said. “This is what, his seventh or eighth year as a starter? Nobody has gotten the formula to beat him one way.”
The Eagles hope that this time, Fangio will have the right answer.
Bears focused on protecting Caleb Williams as they revamp the offensive line (Chicago Bears)
The dynamics of the 2025 NFL Draft will transform following the Super Bowl and the onset of free agency in March. For teams like the Chicago Bears, however, with specific roster requirements, their focus on early-round targets this February is expected to remain consistent come April.
General Manager Ryan Poles is anticipated to utilize multiple early draft selections on both offensive and defensive linemen this year, even if the team successfully signs Trey Smith in free agency.
Ryan Poles eyes offensive line upgrades as Bears prepare for critical picks (Chicago Bears)
The Bears might find themselves with up to four starting positions available on the offensive line. While Smith would represent a substantial improvement at guard, the club’s needs for a center, another guard, and potentially a left tackle cannot all be addressed through free agency.
Chicago Bears: Prioritizing Offensive Line Upgrades
The latest 2025 NFL mock draft from veteran analyst Luke Easterling suggests that Chicago should prioritize Alabama’s Tyler Booker as a plug-and-play guard in the first round.
Easterling acknowledges the unconventional choice: “I know, I know. An interior offensive lineman in the top 10? The Bears will be in no-man’s land if the board falls this way, with no clear-cut prospect on the board who screams ‘top-10 pick.’
So, what’s clearly the biggest need? Helping Caleb Williams as much as possible, as soon as possible, with as many offensive line upgrades as possible. Booker is a polished, high-floor player who will make an instant impact.”
The assessment provided by Easterling resonates, as the Bears’ primary goal must be to protect Caleb Williams effectively in 2025.
In 2024, Williams endured an NFL-high 68 sacks, and while he acknowledges that some were his responsibility, a considerable portion stemmed from a struggling offensive line, particularly in the interior.
With the addition of Booker, the Bears gain traction toward addressing this issue. The 20-year-old, who has started for two years, combines an imposing build with excellent run-blocking skills and a strong anchor against powerful pass rushers.
He fits perfectly with Chicago’s needs and, when paired with Smith, could form the most talented guard duo the franchise has seen in decades.
Expanding Defensive Line Prospects
The Bears’ efforts to strengthen the offensive line don’t end in the first round of Easterling’s mock draft. In the second round, Chicago is projected to select Minnesota offensive tackle Aireontae Ersery.
Ersery stands out as a compelling left tackle prospect, although some analysts believe he may eventually transition to guard due to certain athletic limitations.
Nevertheless, his physical attributes align with those of an NFL offensive tackle. He would be given the opportunity to demonstrate his potential as a long-term left tackle option for the Bears, even if he finally becomes a reliable (though not exceptional) starter.
At this moment, the Bears could certainly benefit from having several “good” players on their offensive line. While Ersery may not possess elite offensive tackle traits, he could be a prospect with a higher ceiling compared to Braxton Jones.
The next two selections in Easterling’s mock draft move attention to the Bears’ defensive line, featuring Ohio State edge rusher JT Tuimoloau at No. 41 all in all and Texas defensive lineman Alfred Collins at No. 72.
At one point during his college career, Tuimoloau appeared to be a guaranteed top-10 pick. Although his scouting report may have lost some luster, he still boasts an appealing NFL projection as a versatile three-down edge defender at the professional level.
Kudos are due to Easterling for crafting a mock draft that includes three picks likely to earn a solid ‘A’ grade if this potential 2025 NFL Draft class materializes as envisioned.
Kansas City Chiefs in the Super Bowl 59 Opening Night
John Madden once said the biggest difference in sports is between the winner and loser of the Super Bowl. When comparing America’s biggest sporting events, the largest difference is between the Super Bowl and anything else trying to be close.
Sting called it “Americana at its most kitsch.” Paul McCartney said, “There’s nothing bigger than being asked to perform at the Super Bowl.” Legendary New York ad executive Jerry Della Femina — the inspiration for the show “Mad Men” — called it “Judgment Day,” adding, “[P]oliticians have Election Day and Hollywood has the Oscars. Advertising has the Super Bowl.” Before the Nielsen ratings, the most-watched television event in history was thought to be the Apollo 11 moon landing.
Now, the top 10 shows in history — and 19 of the top 20 — are all Super Bowls. The NFL hopes this year’s game can break last year’s massive record of 123.4 million average viewers. But it may take some serious hype and luck, with last year’s Super Bowl surpassing the previous season’s record by an impressive 7.4 percent.
That number was partly boosted by simulcasts on streaming platforms, but the biggest factor was that the game between the Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers went into overtime, giving the Super Bowl broadcasts extra time to draw in a larger audience. A league source told that while the NFL has been cautious about predicting the size of this year’s audience (partly because last season’s viewership spike was unexpected).
“If there’s a new [viewership] record, will probably have a lot to do with it,” the source said. “I think there are some people [in the league office] that are eager to see how that goes and what can be learned from it. I imagine there is some anticipation at Fox, too.”
The source added that NBC executives will be watching closely and “hoping for a monster” viewership number, since it has next year’s main Super Bowl broadcast and will be adjusting advertising rates based on this year’s results.
President Donald Trump holds a gold hockey stick
“This is going to be interesting when it comes to ratings for a number of reasons,” the league source said, adding that the league’s belief that its media rights are currently “undervalued” will continue to be backed by increasing Super Bowl viewership.
With that in mind, it will be interesting to see how Super Bowl LIX draws viewers in beyond just the football game. It’s already clear the event will have no shortage of exciting — and possibly conflicting — attractions. Among them…
Donald Trump’s attendance
Trump’s decision to become the first sitting U.S. President to attend a Super Bowl has made headlines since it was announced earlier this week. After exchanging criticism with Trump during his last time in office, the NFL office and team owners have tried to balance social justice efforts while avoiding getting pulled into political debates, especially around the national anthem protests.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said on Monday that the league would continue working on diversity in its hiring, which goes against the anti-DEI stance Trump has held since returning to the White House.
But after Goodell’s statement, the NFL unexpectedly decided to change one of the end zone messages — from “end racism” to “choose love” — after Trump’s attendance was confirmed. The change raised some questions, even though the league said it wanted to use a more “uplifting” message instead of the “end racism” message that had been in the Super Bowl end zones since 2021.
The move has brought extra attention to how the league will handle the spotlight Trump brings to the game, which will add intrigue to the broadcast. No one knows yet exactly how Trump will be involved in the game or what his role will be before or after the game.
Taylor Swift’s attendance
In contrast to Trump’s attendance, Swift’s presence at the game is expected to add another layer of excitement, as she is likely to cheer on Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce from a Super Bowl skybox. Their relationship has even created prop bets at various sportsbooks, such as whether they’ll share a post-Super Bowl kiss or if Kelce will propose.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Relationship Fuels NFL Popularity and Expands Global Audience
This will bring a lot of Swift fans to the game but also annoy those who just want to focus on the football game without the celebrity drama. Either way, Swift’s presence will be a big part of Sunday, especially considering she endorsed Kamala Harris in the election, which adds an awkward dynamic with Trump’s presence. Expect plenty of camera shots of Swift and Trump during the broadcast.
Will Kendrick Lamar perform ‘Not Like Us?’
The highly popular California rapper Kendrick Lamar has generated a lot of excitement as the halftime performer. But it’s raised a lot of curiosity about whether he’ll perform his diss track “Not Like Us,” which took shots at Drake in a rap feud, led to a defamation lawsuit, and even became popular at some Democratic rallies during the presidential election.
Did we mention Trump will be at the game while Lamar performs? No one knows yet if Lamar will include the song in his halftime show, and many wonder how the lyrics might be adjusted, as some of them would likely be muted during a broadcast. When asked about playing the song, Lamar avoided directly answering the question. This uncertainty adds to the intrigue and will likely draw in a larger viewing audience.
Toto Wolff takes a cautious stance on Mercedes' 2025 season expectations (Mercedes)
Toto Wolff remains cautious when discussing Mercedes’ expectations for the 2025 Formula 1 season as the team works toward regaining its position as a title contender. Since the introduction of ground-effect regulations, Mercedes has struggled to find consistent success.
The team secured only one victory in 2022 and failed to win a single race in 2023. Last season brought four wins, but the W15’s unpredictable performance made it difficult to maximize its potential.
Wolff emphasizes focus on testing to assess improvements in car balance (Mercedes)
Mercedes Struggles With Performance Consistency
Issues with ride height and track temperature fluctuations created inconsistent results, making the car challenging to manage. Mercedes found success under specific conditions, particularly in cooler weather with fresh track surfaces.
The Las Vegas Grand Prix was a prime example, where George Russell secured a dominant victory from pole position, and former teammate Lewis Hamilton crossed the line in second place.
With a new campaign on the horizon, Wolff remains measured in his approach, choosing not to make bold predictions about how the team will perform.
“These cars are incredibly tricky to fine-tune perfectly, and we’ve only managed to do it on rare occasions,” Wolff told reporters, including those from RacingNews365. “In Las Vegas, we had a dominant performance, but at other venues, we struggled to even contend for a podium finish.
“That’s why I’d prefer to say less and focus on our performance in testing. We need to determine if we’ve addressed some of the balance issues, gained better control over tire management, and improved every consistency. Once testing is complete, we’ll have a clearer idea of where we stand.
Preparing for a Championship Fight
“George is prepared to compete for the championship, and our job is to ensure that both he and Kimi [Antonelli] have a car capable of fighting at the front.”
Steve Kerr applauds Butler’s impact and leadership in comeback win (Golden State Warrior)
Jimmy Butler stepped onto the court for the first time as a Golden State Warrior, making his debut in a commanding 132-111 victory over the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on Saturday. His presence was immediately felt in the comeback win, and head coach Steve Kerr had high praise for the veteran forward during his postgame remarks.
“Having Jimmy with us is pretty special,” Kerr said. “He’s an incredible player. His ability to draw fouls really helps stabilize things when we need it most, but what stands out to me the most is his passing. His passing ties everything together and makes a huge impact on our offense, no matter where he is on the floor.
Stephen Curry ignites third-quarter explosion to fuel Golden State’s rally (Golden State Warrior)
“He can operate from the post, make plays off the dribble, or swing the ball quickly to keep the flow going,” Kerr continued. “It’s not just about skill and strength—it’s also his presence. He has the mentality of a lion on the court, and his energy is undeniable.”
Butler Ignites Comeback in Second Half
Butler contributed 25 points while shooting 7-for-12 from the field, adding two rebounds, four assists, a steal, and a block. His performance started off quietly, and for a good portion of the game, it seemed like his debut might end in disappointment.
By halftime, he had only managed to score eight points, and the Warriors found themselves trailing 69-55. Chicago extended its advantage to 24 points, their largest lead of the night, when they went up 83-59 with just over eight minutes remaining in the third quarter. At that moment, it appeared the Bulls were on their way to an easy win. However, what happened next completely flipped the script.
Golden State responded with a staggering 67-18 run that turned the game on its head, putting them ahead 126-101 by the fourth quarter. Stephen Curry was instrumental in that turnaround, pouring in 24 points in the third quarter alone to set up a dramatic finish.
Butler took over from there, opening the fourth quarter with seven straight points to give the Warriors their first double-digit lead of the game. The six-time All-Star added 10 points within the first five minutes of the quarter, ensuring that his former team had no chance to recover.
Butler’s Impact on the Warriors’ Offense
While Butler’s playmaking will certainly benefit the Warriors, his ability to get to the free-throw line is perhaps even more crucial. Golden State has struggled in that area, ranking near the bottom of the league with just 20.5 free-throw attempts per game. Against Chicago, Butler went to the line 13 times, converting 11 of those attempts. His total was the second-highest ever for a Warrior in a debut game, trailing only Wilt Chamberlain’s 15 attempts.
Ending a brief two-game skid, Golden State evened their record at 26-26 with this victory. They may not yet be considered a serious contender, but Butler’s arrival clearly made an immediate difference, especially for Curry. The two-time MVP finished with 34 points on 10-of-19 shooting, along with four rebounds, six assists, and a block.
Defenses now have another major scoring threat to worry about, which should prevent opponents from focusing all their attention on Curry. Before Butler’s debut, Curry was averaging just 22.1 points per game this season.
With Butler now in the lineup, the hope is that he can maintain this level of production moving forward. The Warriors will return to action on Monday when they face the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum, with tip-off set for 8 PM ET.
