The Cleveland Cavaliers are trading De'Andre Hunter to the Sacramento Kings for Dennis Schroder a...

<p>The Cleveland Cavaliers are trading <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53037" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53037">De'Andre Hunter</a> to the Sacramento Kings for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30613" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30613">Dennis Schroder </a>and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102739" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102739">Keon Ellis</a>, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/47793616/sources-cavs-trade-hunter-kings-schroder-ellis">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>It's a three-team deal that includes the Chicago Bulls acquiring Kings forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37598" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37598">Dario Saric</a> and two future second-round picks.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-aQLdK" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/aQLdK/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="207" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>The Cavs create almost $50 million in salary and tax savings this season with the trade, according to Charania, who adds that the move puts Cleveland in a position to get under the second apron next season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Hunter is an established 3-and-D player who's under contract through 2027. He's averaging 14 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game this season. With the 28-year-old in town, Sacramento will have enough roster flexibility to convert two-way center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/171900" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/171900">Dylan Cardwell</a> to a standard NBA deal, Charania notes. Caldwell has stood out as an undrafted rookie, posting 4.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game across 23 appearances.</p><p>Schroder and Ellis average 12.8 and 5.6 points, respectively. The former is under contract for three more years and will make around $14 million per season.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Dennis Schroder has now been traded 8 times. He is now tied with multiple players for the second-most times traded in NBA history.<br><br>Trevor Ariza is the leader with 11 trades.</p>— Yossi Gozlan (@YossiGozlan) <a href="https://twitter.com/YossiGozlan/status/2017817338180210767?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Ellis, who's on an expiring contract, is eligible to sign an extension Feb. 9. He remains a solid perimeter defender, having averaged over one steal per game in 2025-26.</p><p>The Bulls will waive guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37718" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37718">Jevon Carter</a> to create space for Saric, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/2017820312285430083">Charania</a>. Saric is on an expiring deal worth $5.4 million.</p>

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - JANUARY 30: De'Andre Hunter #12 of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts during the second half of the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at Mortgage Matchup Center on January 30, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona.

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Report: Kings land Hunter from Cavs, send Saric to Bulls in 3-team trade

If past Super Bowls have taught us anything, it's that unheralded heroes are a thing. Time and ag...

<p>If past Super Bowls have taught us anything, it's that unheralded heroes are a thing. Time and again, we've seen under-the-radar players become stars by making a franchise-altering play on football's biggest stage.</p><p>The New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks experienced this firsthand 11 years ago during their last Super Bowl showdown, when then-undrafted rookie Malcolm Butler intercepted a Russell Wilson pass at the goal line in the dying seconds to give New England another Vince Lombardi Trophy.</p><p>Who could be the next Butler? As the Patriots and Seahawks prepare for their Feb. 8 showdown at Levi's Stadium, here are four candidates who could become unsung Super Bowl LX heroes.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Kyle Williams, WR, Patriots</h3><p>Williams hasn't seen many snaps, but the big-play ability showcased by the third-round rookie in the regular season might be a difference-maker for the Patriots if Drake Maye can find him in the Super Bowl.</p><p>Williams played only 15 snaps in the AFC title game against the Denver Broncos and has hauled in just one of his four postseason targets. Still, all it takes is one big play to shift a big game, and that's where the speedster could shine.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Kyle Williams turned the JETS ON 🏎️<br><br>📺 CBS <a href="https://t.co/s1Krwc6jG3">pic.twitter.com/s1Krwc6jG3</a></p>— New England Patriots (@Patriots) <a href="https://twitter.com/Patriots/status/1987591195791442262?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 9, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Three of Williams' 10 catches during the regular season went for a touchdown, with each score covering at least 30 yards, including a 72-yarder. Williams averaged 20.9 yards per reception this campaign.</p><p>The Patriots' top wide receivers - Stefon Diggs, Kayshon Boutte, and DeMario Douglas - have a tough matchup ahead against the Seahawks' deep secondary. Exploring Williams' big-play threat on go routes could be huge for Maye to surprise Seattle.</p><h3>AJ Barner, TE, Seahawks</h3><p>Barner has become an afterthought on the Seahawks' offense over their playoff run, recording two catches on three targets for 13 yards in two games. However, he was crucial to Seattle's regular-season success and could break out in the Super Bowl.</p><p>The 23-year-old has played 933 offensive snaps this season - the most among all Seahawks skill-position players. Barner also ranked top 10 in touchdowns (six) and total EPA generated (55.05) among all tight ends, according to <a href="https://sumersports.com/players/tight-end/">SumerSports</a>.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/802918/cropped_GettyImages-2237431644.jpg?ts=1758849844" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/802918/w220xh124_GettyImages-2237431644.jpg?ts=1758849844 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/802918/w320xh180_GettyImages-2237431644.jpg?ts=1758849844 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/802918/w640xh360_GettyImages-2237431644.jpg?ts=1758849844 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/802918/w768xh432_GettyImages-2237431644.jpg?ts=1758849844 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/802918/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2237431644.jpg?ts=1758849844 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Christian Petersen / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>While the Patriots' defense has been dominant throughout this playoff run, it showed vulnerability against tight ends during the regular season. New England placed in the bottom 11 in targets, receptions, and receiving yards allowed to the position, with its struggles even more pronounced in the red zone. When TEs were targeted inside the 20-yard line, the Patriots surrendered a 124.4 passer rating, ranking 29th in the NFL, per TruMedia. That weakness aligns directly with Barner's strengths, as he led Seattle in red-zone receiving yards this campaign.</p><h3>Marcus Jones, CB/PR, Patriots</h3><p>Quality special teams will be on full display at Super Bowl LX, and not just because of Seahawks return specialist Rashid Shaheed. The Patriots also roster an elite returner in Jones, who earned a second-team All-Pro nod as a punt returner this season.</p><p>Jones averaged 17.3 yards per punt return and scored two return touchdowns in 2025. His career punt return average is now at 14.3 - the highest in NFL history.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818024/cropped_GettyImages-2256942064.jpg?ts=1768771953" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818024/w220xh124_GettyImages-2256942064.jpg?ts=1768771953 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818024/w320xh180_GettyImages-2256942064.jpg?ts=1768771953 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818024/w640xh360_GettyImages-2256942064.jpg?ts=1768771953 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818024/w768xh432_GettyImages-2256942064.jpg?ts=1768771953 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818024/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2256942064.jpg?ts=1768771953 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Winslow Townson / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Oh, and the 27-year-old is also a quality cornerback in New England's secondary. Combining the regular season and playoffs this campaign, he's registered 79 tackles, 15 pass breakups, three sacks, and four interceptions, including a pick-6 off C.J. Stroud in the divisional round.</p><h3>Derick Hall, LB, Seahawks</h3><p>Seattle's defense is loaded with top-end talent, but Hall is an under-the-radar player who could play a crucial role in the Super Bowl. The 24-year-old's 14.6% pressure rate in the regular season ranked first on the team among qualifying pass-rushers, according to <a href="https://pro.nfl.com/stats/defense/season?sortKey=qbpR&amp;sortValue=DESC&amp;season=2025&amp;qualifiedDefender=false&amp;teamDefense=4600&amp;seasonType=REG&amp;tab=passRush">Next Gen Stats</a>. He delivered in the Seahawks' crucial Week 18 victory over the San Francisco 49ers, totaling one sack and three quarterback hits.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819558/cropped_GettyImages-2251243438.jpg?ts=1769642948" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819558/w220xh124_GettyImages-2251243438.jpg?ts=1769642948 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819558/w320xh180_GettyImages-2251243438.jpg?ts=1769642948 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819558/w640xh360_GettyImages-2251243438.jpg?ts=1769642948 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819558/w768xh432_GettyImages-2251243438.jpg?ts=1769642948 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819558/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2251243438.jpg?ts=1769642948 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Perry Knotts / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Hall primarily lines up on the right side of Seattle's defense and will presumably square off against rookie offensive tackle Will Campbell. New England's first-round lineman had a solid regular season, surrendering just five quarterback hits in 13 contests. However, it's been a different story in the playoffs, as he's allowed the most sacks (three) and pressures (11) among all offensive linemen. Since suffering a knee injury in late November, Campbell hasn't looked like the same player and has become the weak link on the Pats' offensive line.</p><p>With Leonard Williams and Byron Murphy receiving a ton of attention and double-teams, Hall might benefit from one-on-one matchups that could make-or-break the game.</p>

TAMPA, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 09: Kyle Williams #18 of the New England Patriots runs the ball during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on November 9, 2025 in Tampa, Florida.

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Unheralded players who could be the heroes of Patriots-Seahawks Super Bowl

The NFL world was caught off guard by a report stating that legendary NFL head coach Bill Belichi...

<p>The NFL world was caught off guard by a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3465630" href="https://thescore.com/news/3465630">report</a> stating that legendary NFL head coach Bill Belichick fell short of the Hall of Fame on his first year of eligibility.</p><p>The news set social media ablaze and generated reactions from members of the media and players, including Kansas City Chiefs quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/89514" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/89514">Patrick Mahomes</a> and former New England Patriots stars.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Insane… don’t even understand how this could be possible <a href="https://t.co/EiKUeRPffn">https://t.co/EiKUeRPffn</a></p>— Patrick Mahomes II (@PatrickMahomes) <a href="https://twitter.com/PatrickMahomes/status/2016285161659175134?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Man there's no way I read that right! Right? Ain't no WAY Bill Belichick ain't 1st Ballot HOF!! That's IMPOSSIBLE, EGREGIOUS, and quite frankly DISRESPECTFUL!</p>— LeBron James (@KingJames) <a href="https://twitter.com/KingJames/status/2016301261113655646?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2026</a>
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<p lang="qst" dir="ltr">smh <a href="https://t.co/1Z8W9rR7WD">https://t.co/1Z8W9rR7WD</a></p>— Julian Edelman (@Edelman11) <a href="https://twitter.com/Edelman11/status/2016292826389115311?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I can’t be reading this right. <br><br>This has to be some knock-off Hall of Fame or something, it can’t be the actual NFL Hall of Fame.<br><br>There is not a single world whatsoever in which Bill Belichick should not be a First-Ballot Hall of Famer. <a href="https://t.co/OXhL1Sd4FM">https://t.co/OXhL1Sd4FM</a></p>— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) <a href="https://twitter.com/JJWatt/status/2016276953905398115?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">A disappointing day for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.</p>— Troy Aikman (@TroyAikman) <a href="https://twitter.com/TroyAikman/status/2016349306689642502?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Sometimes I scratch my head when a candidate gets in the HOF, this time I’m scratching my head on how an HOF candidate didn get in… <a href="https://t.co/KKqDlDvtXz">https://t.co/KKqDlDvtXz</a></p>— Cam Jordan (@camjordan94) <a href="https://twitter.com/camjordan94/status/2016282898803130432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">This is just WRONG ..#2 winning ALL TIME…more Super Bowls than anyone unimaginable # of division championships…lot of small jealous voters <a href="https://t.co/Q4H5Qnz2L2">https://t.co/Q4H5Qnz2L2</a></p>— Jimmy Johnson (@JimmyJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/JimmyJohnson/status/2016291118816657884?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I think I should be on the HOF committee if someone doesn’t have enough sense to vote for Bill.</p>— Wade Phillips (@sonofbum) <a href="https://twitter.com/sonofbum/status/2016322449336324218?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Dumbest shit we will see all 2026!!! <a href="https://t.co/FBu4An8R47">https://t.co/FBu4An8R47</a></p>— Devin McCourty (@devinmccourty) <a href="https://twitter.com/devinmccourty/status/2016282307439575410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="fr" dir="ltr">OUTRAGEOUS!🤦🏿‍♂️ <a href="https://t.co/UEKFKQLAN3">https://t.co/UEKFKQLAN3</a></p>— James White (@SweetFeet_White) <a href="https://twitter.com/SweetFeet_White/status/2016280037742322078?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The voters have to not remain anonymous anymore. We need an explanation for why Bill Belichick one of the greatest coaches ever of any level of any sport with 8 SB’s is not a first ballot HOF’er……… No explanation will be valid but I need to know. I’m sorry man!! This insane!</p>— Gerald McCoy (@Geraldini93) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geraldini93/status/2016290857268478403?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I presented Bill Belichick in the coach sub-committee meeting that moved him forward to the full committee, and I presented him to the full committee.<br><br>I am stunned, disappointed, and disagree deeply with the at least 11 selectors who didn’t vote for him for the HOF Class of 2026</p>— Armando Salguero (@ArmandoSalguero) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArmandoSalguero/status/2016284246361440687?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bill Belichick not being a first ballot Hall of Famer means that no coach should ever be. It means that the voters have decided there isn’t a coaching resume that warrants First Ballot consideration! <br><br>He is the GREATEST, most ACCOMPLISHED coach of all time! This is egregious!</p>— Ryan Clark (@Realrclark25) <a href="https://twitter.com/Realrclark25/status/2016282011791499272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">From <a href="https://twitter.com/SethWickersham?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SethWickersham</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/DVNJr?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DVNJr</a>: When told that Bill Belichick isn’t a first-ballot Hall of Famer, Peter King, a 32-year Hall of Fame voter who didn’t cast a ballot this year, said: “Holy f---! Oh f---! ... I’m very, very surprised.” <a href="https://t.co/aJDBvaNSGF">https://t.co/aJDBvaNSGF</a></p>— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/2016276020177879454?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Without WiFi for over an hour on my connecting flight to Mobile. Let me see if I have all this straight:<br><br>—<a href="https://twitter.com/JellyRoll615?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JellyRoll615</a> is an NFL insider<br>—Belichick isn’t a Hall of Famer<br>—It’s all Joe Lombardi’s fault<br><br>Did we fly through a black hole into another dimension? <a href="https://t.co/2yzaALbfZ3">https://t.co/2yzaALbfZ3</a></p>— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeGarafolo/status/2016278749944168571?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Text from an NFL executive: “The 10+ people that didn’t vote for BB should be exposed. WTF. This is crazy.” <a href="https://t.co/aJDBvaNSGF">https://t.co/aJDBvaNSGF</a></p>— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/2016277959074549835?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ridiculous. 🤬🤬🤬<br>Couldn’t have a better resume! 🐐 <a href="https://t.co/J40rY6dNua">https://t.co/J40rY6dNua</a></p>— Logan Ryan (@RealLoganRyan) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealLoganRyan/status/2016287353371836914?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">We really need transparency with these voters b/c this is madness</p>— Damien Woody (@damienwoody) <a href="https://twitter.com/damienwoody/status/2016276207646486768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The anti-<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Patriots?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Patriots</a> bias by the Pro Football Hall of Fame compared to other NFL dynasties continues.<br><br>'70s Steelers have 10+HC+owner, '80s 49ers have 6+HC+owner, '90s Cowboys have 6+HC+owner. <br><br>Yet the HOF keeps Belichick, Vinatieri, Harrison, and more out. It's ridiculous. <a href="https://t.co/xRDvu0H99s">https://t.co/xRDvu0H99s</a></p>— Evan Lazar (@ezlazar) <a href="https://twitter.com/ezlazar/status/2016277725154091095?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>

BALTIMORE , MD. - NOVEMBER 3: New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick shows his frustration during the second quarter of the NFL game against the Baltimore Ravens at M & T Bank Stadium on November 3, 2019 in Baltimore , Maryland . (Staff Photo By Matt Stone/MediaNews Group/Boston Herald)

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Social media explodes as Belichick reportedly falls short of Hall of Fame

Legendary head coach Bill Belichick won't be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in his f...

<p>Legendary head coach Bill Belichick won't be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/47747076/belichick-not-first-ballot-hall-famer">Don Van Natta Jr. and Seth Wickersham of ESPN</a>.</p><p>Belichick needed 40 out of 50 votes for induction but reportedly fell short. Voting took place earlier in January.</p><p>The 73-year-old was "puzzled" and "disappointed," sources told ESPN.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Six Super Bowls isn't enough?" Belichick asked an associate, according to Van Natta and Wickersham. Another source told them that Belichick "doesn't believe this is a reflection on his accomplishments."</p><p> "Politics kept him out," the source told Van Natta and Wickersham.</p><p>Belichick is widely viewed as the greatest coach in NFL history. He helped the New England Patriots win six Super Bowls as a head coach after claiming two Lombardi Trophies as a New York Giants assistant. The three-time Coach of the Year also owns 333 wins in the NFL, the second most in league history, including the playoffs.</p><p>Belichick and Tom Brady built a dynasty in New England that was marked by winning seasons and Super Bowl rings, but it also created controversy. The Patriots lost a first-round pick and Belichick was fined $500,000 after the team videotaped opposing coaches' signals during games in 2007.</p><p>Belichick also faced scrutiny for Deflategate, a scandal in which Brady allegedly ordered the deliberate deflation of footballs that were used in New England's AFC title win in 2015. Belichick wasn't directly punished, but Brady received a four-game ban, and the Patriots were fined $1 million.</p><p>Hall of Fame executive Bill Polian - who served as general manager for two big Patriots rivals, the Buffalo Bills and Indianapolis Colts - reportedly told voters that Belichick should "wait a year" before induction because of Spygate.</p><p>Polian denied that report, calling it "untrue" and saying he voted for Belichick in a conversation with <a href="https://x.com/MattVerderame/status/2016294310451282181">Matt Verderame of Sports Illustrated</a>.</p><p>However, Polian later said on a Tuesday night interview with ESPN that he could not remember with 100% certainty if he voted for Belichick. He added that he was 95% sure he voted for the coach.</p><p>"He deserves to be in the Hall of Fame," Polian said.</p><p>Belichick served his first year as head coach at North Carolina in 2025. The Tar Heels went 4-8.</p><p>This year's Hall of Fame class will be officially announced Feb. 5 at NFL Honors.</p>

Denver, CO - December 24: New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick throws his hands up in the second half. The Patriots beat the Denver Broncos, 26-23.

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Report: Belichick falls short of Hall of Fame on 1st ballot

The Denver Broncos dismissed offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi, the team announced Tuesday.  Den...

<p>The Denver Broncos dismissed offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi, the team announced Tuesday.</p><p>Denver also parted ways with wide receivers coach Keary Colbert and cornerbacks coach Addison Lynch.</p><p>Lombardi joined the Broncos in 2023 and helped the team claim the AFC's 1-seed this season with a 14-3 record. Denver reached the AFC title game, but their campaign ended with a 10-7 loss to the New England Patriots in blizzard conditions.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Broncos averaged 23.6 points per contest in 2025, ranking 14th in the NFL. </p><p>Lombardi worked with head coach Sean Payton for several years on the New Orleans Saints and followed the experienced play-caller to Denver.</p><p>The Broncos' surprising decision to move on from Lombardi could open the door for quarterbacks coach Davis Webb to be promoted. Webb has had multiple head coaching interviews this cycle.</p>

HOUSTON, TX - NOVEMBER 02: Denver Broncos offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi oversees warmups during the NFL game between the Denver Broncos and Houston Texans on November 2, 2025 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas.

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Broncos fire OC Lombardi

The Washington Nationals traded starting pitcher MacKenzie Gore to the Texas Rangers for five pro...

<p>The Washington Nationals traded starting pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12506" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12506">MacKenzie Gore</a> to the Texas Rangers for five prospects, the team announced Thursday.</p><p>The Nationals received shortstop Gavin Fien, right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18623" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18623">Alejandro Rosario</a>, first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17285" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17285">Abimelec Ortiz</a>, infielder Devin Fitz-Gerald, and outfielder Yeremy Cabrera.</p><p>"If you asked me a week ago, was this going to happen? I probably would have said no," Nationals president of baseball operations Paul Toboni said, according to <a href="https://x.com/andrewcgolden/status/2014479042372673560">The Washington Post's Andrew Golden</a>. "But over the course of the last week, just momentum built and finally got to a spot where it made sense for us."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Gore posted a 4.17 ERA, 3.74 FIP and 185 strikeouts over 159 2/3 innings last year en route to earning his first All-Star selection. The southpaw, who turns 27 in February, has two years of club control left.</p><p>"We were going to hold a really high bar because we think the world of MacKenzie as a player," Toboni added, according to <a href="https://x.com/Bobby_Blanco/status/2014479296924905539">MASN's Bobby Blanco</a>. </p><p>Gore provides first-year Rangers manager Skip Schumaker with rotation depth behind ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4311" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4311">Jacob deGrom</a> and veteran right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2345" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2345">Nathan Eovaldi</a>.</p><p><strong>Rangers' 2026 projected rotation</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>PITCHER</th>
<th>THROWS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Jacob deGrom</td>
<td>Right</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nathan Eovaldi</td>
<td>Right</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MacKenzie Gore</td>
<td>Left</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jack Leiter</td>
<td>Right</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jacob Latz</td>
<td>Left</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Fien and Rosario are the two biggest names joining the Nationals. Fien was the Rangers' No. 2 prospect behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17566" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17566">Sebastian Walcott</a>, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects/rangers/">MLB Pipeline</a>. Rosario was Texas' sixth-ranked prospect and the team's No. 4 pitcher.</p><p>Fitz-Gerald (12th), Cabrera (16th), and Ortiz (18th) were all ranked among the Rangers' top 30 prospects.</p><p>"We do our best to know our players. but every single guy we gave up, we believe in," Rangers president of baseball operations Chris Young said, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6993006/2026/01/22/mackenzie-gore-rangers-nationals-max-scherzer/">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon</a>. </p><p>"We gave up good players, I can tell you that. But we gave them up because they were farther from the big leagues. They were just not going to help us this year."</p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 22: MacKenzie Gore #1 of the Washington Nationals pitches in the first inning against the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park on September 22, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Rangers acquire Gore from Nationals for 5 prospects

Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton sounded very optimistic about his team's chances against th...

<p>Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton sounded very optimistic about his team's chances against the New England Patriots in the AFC title game Sunday - and that doesn't seem to be sitting well with some opposing players.</p><p>Payton delivered a bold message to Broncos fans Wednesday, suggesting that they'll have an extra week off before cheering again at Super Bowl LX.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Sean Payton wants Broncos fans to be loud again this week in the AFC Championship Game…<br><br>“They’re going to have plenty of rest after this one. Two weeks.”<br><br>👀 👀 <a href="https://t.co/SOw9xcByYL">pic.twitter.com/SOw9xcByYL</a></p>— Zac Stevens (@ZacStevensDNVR) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZacStevensDNVR/status/2014155024038051919?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Patriots wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188240" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188240">Kayshon Boutte</a> responded to Payton's comments Thursday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"They can rest in Cancun too," Boutte said, according to <a href="https://x.com/KMooreTV/status/2014407044564967441">Kevin Moore of NBC 10 WJAR</a>.</p><p>Mike Vrabel was also asked about Payton's viral remark, but the New England head coach downplayed it.</p><p>"We're plenty motivated for the game," Vrabel said, according to <a href="https://x.com/yaboiTCfresh/status/2014405196399456264">Tom Carroll of WEEI</a>. "Our players are continuing to build confidence through the week. So, I'm really excited to go out there and play."</p><p>The Patriots will go up against the Broncos' backup quarterback, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/93574" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/93574">Jarrett Stidham</a>, who is replacing an injured <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199735" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199735">Bo Nix</a>. Denver and New England were the top seeds in the AFC. The winner of Sunday's clash will face the Seattle Seahawks or Los Angeles Rams in Super Bowl LX on Feb. 8.</p>

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 18: Kayshon Boutte #9 of the New England Patriots signals as he lines up during an NFC Divisional Playoff game against the Houston Texans at Gillette Stadium on January 18, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

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Patriots' Boutte claps back at Payton: Broncos fans 'can rest in Cancun'

The Dallas Cowboys are hiring Christian Parker as their new defensive coordinator, the team annou...

<p>The Dallas Cowboys are hiring Christian Parker as their new defensive coordinator, the team announced Thursday.</p><p>Parker, 34, spent the past two seasons as the Philadelphia Eagles' passing game coordinator and defensive backs coach on coordinator Vic Fangio's staff. He previously spent multiple years with the Green Bay Packers and Denver Broncos as an assistant.</p><p>Parker had a "very impressive" in-person interview with the Cowboys on Wednesday, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JFowlerESPN/status/2014399558764446055?s=20">Jeremy Fowler of ESPN</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>In Dallas, he'll replace Matt Eberflus, who lost his job at the end of the regular season after the Cowboys ranked dead last in points allowed. The team's defensive unit has ranked in the bottom five in points and yards allowed each of the past two years.</p><p>Parker will be the fourth defensive coordinator in as many seasons for the Cowboys, who have switched DCs every year since Dan Quinn left to become the Washington Commanders' head coach in February 2024.</p><p>The Eagles have built a top-10 defense since Fangio and his staff joined the team. Two Philadelphia defensive backs - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199758" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199758">Quinyon Mitchell</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199825" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199825">Cooper DeJean</a> - earned first-team All-Pro selections in 2025 while working with Parker.</p><p>DeJean reacted to Parker's deal with Dallas on social media.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Mannnn😔. They got a great one wouldn’t be the player I am without CP🫡 <a href="https://t.co/AyQycoOsPs">https://t.co/AyQycoOsPs</a></p>— Cooper DeJean (@cooperdejean) <a href="https://twitter.com/cooperdejean/status/2014408497182421324?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>

PHILADELPHIA, PA - JANUARY 04: Philadelphia Eagles passing game coordinator Christian Parker looks on in the second half during the game between the Washington Commanders and Philadelphia Eagles on January 04, 2026 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, PA.

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Cowboys hiring Eagles DBs coach Parker as DC

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers hired Zac Robinson as their offensive coordinator, the team announced Th...

<p>The Tampa Bay Buccaneers hired Zac Robinson as their offensive coordinator, the team announced Thursday.</p><p>Robinson, 39, spent the past two seasons as the Atlanta Falcons' offensive coordinator after previously serving as an assistant on Sean McVay's staff on the Los Angeles Rams.</p><p>"Zac is one of the bright offensive minds in our game, and during the interview process, I was very impressed with his plan for getting the most out of the talent we have on that side of the ball," Bucs head coach Todd Bowles said in a statement. "He has a very good understanding of the strengths of our top offensive players from his time in the division the past two years, and I am very confident in his ability to teach and develop our young players."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Buccaneers fired offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard earlier in January after his first season with the team. Tampa Bay ranked 21st in total offense and 18th in scoring.</p><p>Baker Mayfield struggled in the second half, ranking 30th in passer rating from Weeks 7-18. Mayfield completed 63% of his passes for 3,693 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions in 17 starts.</p><p>Robinson will be Tampa Bay's fifth offensive coordinator in as many seasons. Atlanta was 14th in total offense but only 24th in scoring.</p><p>In 2024, the Buccaneers owned the NFL's No. 3 offense under offensive coordinator Liam Coen, who is now head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Falcons had the sixth-ranked offense in Robinson's first season.</p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - DECEMBER 7: Atlanta Falcons offensive coordinator Zac Robinson reacts during the second quarter against the Seattle Seahawks at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 7, 2025 in Atlanta, United States.

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Bucs hire Falcons' Robinson as OC

The Associated Press announced the five finalists for each main NFL award Thursday, with Los Ange...

<p>The Associated Press announced the five finalists for each main NFL award Thursday, with Los Angeles Rams quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/680" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/680">Matthew Stafford</a> and New England Patriots passer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199741" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199741">Drake Maye</a> headlining the MVP race.</p><p>Buffalo Bills star and reigning NFL MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94699" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/94699">Josh Allen</a>, San Francisco 49ers running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/85079" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/85079">Christian McCaffrey</a>, and Jacksonville Jaguars signal-caller <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161653" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161653">Trevor Lawrence</a> are the other three nominees for MVP.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Name</th>
<th>Position</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Matthew Stafford</td>
<td>QB</td>
<td>Rams</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Drake Maye</td>
<td>QB</td>
<td>Patriots</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Josh Allen</td>
<td>QB</td>
<td>Bills</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Trevor Lawrence</td>
<td>QB</td>
<td>Jaguars</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Christian McCaffrey</td>
<td>RB</td>
<td>49ers</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Stafford is the favorite to take home the NFL MVP award for the first time in his 17-year career. The 37-year-old led the league with 4,707 passing yards and 46 touchdowns. Maye - who topped the NFL in pass completion percentage - accounted for 35 TDs to help the Patriots go 14-3 in his first season as their full-time starter.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Finalists for other categories were also unveiled. The winners will be announced Feb. 5 during the NFL Honors broadcast. Here are the contenders for the remaining awards:</p><h3>Offensive Player of the Year</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Name</th>
<th>Position</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Drake Maye</td>
<td>QB</td>
<td>Patriots</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Christian McCaffrey</td>
<td>RB</td>
<td>49ers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Puka Nacua</td>
<td>WR</td>
<td>Rams</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bijan Robinson</td>
<td>RB</td>
<td>Falcons</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jaxon Smith-Njigba</td>
<td>WR</td>
<td>Seahawks</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Often awarded to the most outstanding non-quarterback, the OPOY appears to be a two-man race between <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188171" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188171">Smith-Njigba</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188318" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188318">Nacua</a>.</p><h3>Defensive Player of the Year</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Name</th>
<th>Position</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Myles Garrett</td>
<td>EDGE</td>
<td>Browns</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Will Anderson Jr.</td>
<td>EDGE</td>
<td>Texans</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Micah Parsons</td>
<td>EDGE</td>
<td>Packers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Aidan Hutchinson</td>
<td>EDGE</td>
<td>Lions</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nik Bonitto</td>
<td>EDGE</td>
<td>Broncos</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188133" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188133">Anderson</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161667" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161667">Parsons</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174006" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174006">Hutchinson</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174022" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174022">Bonitto</a> were all great in 2025, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87669" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87669">Garrett</a> should run away with this award after setting a single-season record with 23 sacks.</p><h3>Offensive Rookie of the Year</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Name</th>
<th>Position</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Jaxson Dart</td>
<td>QB</td>
<td>Giants</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Emeka Egbuka</td>
<td>WR</td>
<td>Buccaneers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TreVeyon Henderson</td>
<td>RB</td>
<td>Patriots</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tetairoa McMillan</td>
<td>WR</td>
<td>Panthers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyler Shough</td>
<td>QB</td>
<td>Saints</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Quarterbacks have an advantage when it comes to individual awards, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209911" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209911">Dart</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210047" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210047">Shough</a> didn't play a full season. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209929" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209929">McMillan</a>, who topped 1,000 yards, could become the first receiver to win the OROY since Garrett Wilson (2022).</p><h3>Defensive Rookie of the Year</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Name</th>
<th>Position</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Abdul Carter</td>
<td>EDGE</td>
<td>Giants</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nick Emmanwori</td>
<td>S</td>
<td>Seahawks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>James Pearce Jr.</td>
<td>EDGE</td>
<td>Falcons</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Carson Schwesinger</td>
<td>LB</td>
<td>Browns</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Xavier Watts</td>
<td>S</td>
<td>Falcons</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Three DROY finalists weren't first-round picks, including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209989" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209989">Schwesinger</a>, the 33rd overall selection who's the favorite here after posting 156 tackles and two interceptions.</p><h3>Coach of the Year</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Name</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Liam Coen</td>
<td>Jaguars</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ben Johnson</td>
<td>Bears</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mike Macdonald</td>
<td>Seahawks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kyle Shanahan</td>
<td>49ers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mike Vrabel</td>
<td>Patriots</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Each nominee guided their teams to impressive turnarounds. The biggest one took place in New England, where the Patriots improved from 4-13 in 2024 to 14-3 in '25 in Vrabel's first year as head coach. </p><h3>Assistant Coach of the Year</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Name</th>
<th>Role</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Vic Fangio</td>
<td>DC</td>
<td>Eagles</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brian Flores</td>
<td>DC</td>
<td>Vikings</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vance Joseph</td>
<td>DC</td>
<td>Broncos</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Klint Kubiak</td>
<td>OC</td>
<td>Seahawks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Josh McDaniels</td>
<td>OC</td>
<td>Patriots</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>This group includes three defensive coordinators, but no one should be surprised if the award goes to the other side of the ball. Seattle's offense improved significantly in its first year under Kubiak's watch.</p><h3>Comeback Player of the Year</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Name</th>
<th>Position</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Aidan Hutchinson</td>
<td>EDGE</td>
<td>Lions</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Stefon Diggs</td>
<td>WR</td>
<td>Patriots</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Trevor Lawrence</td>
<td>QB</td>
<td>Jaguars</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Christian McCaffrey</td>
<td>RB</td>
<td>49ers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dak Prescott</td>
<td>QB</td>
<td>Cowboys</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>McCaffrey is a finalist for two other awards, but his best chances are for the Comeback Player of the Year. After missing 13 games due to injury in 2024, he finished the 2025 season with 2,126 yards and 17 touchdowns from scrimmage.</p>

FOXBOROUGH, MA - NOVEMBER 17: New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) greets Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) after a game between the New England Patriots and the Los Angeles Rams on November 17, 2024, at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

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NFL award finalists: Stafford, Maye headline 5 MVP nominees

The Atlanta Falcons are hiring Tommy Rees as their new offensive coordinator, sources told NFL Ne...

<p>The Atlanta Falcons are hiring Tommy Rees as their new offensive coordinator, sources told <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/2014086075505877326?s=20">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>.</p><p>Rees spent the 2025 season as the Browns' offensive coordinator in Kevin Stefanski's coaching staff. Stefanski began the campaign as Cleveland's offensive play-caller but handed the duties to Rees after the team's bye week in November.</p><p>The Browns, who had three different starting quarterbacks in 2025, averaged 16.4 points per game, the second-lowest mark in the NFL.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Stefanski, recently hired as Atlanta's new head coach to replace Raheem Morris, started building his new staff this week. He also hired longtime offensive line coach Bill Callahan.</p><p>Stefanski, Rees, and Co. will try to revitalize a talented but underachieving Falcons offense. Atlanta ranked 24th in points scored and 14th in total yards this past season, missing the playoffs for the eighth straight year with an 8-9 record.</p><p>The Falcons have invested heavily in their offensive unit in recent drafts, yet they haven't ranked in the top 10 in scoring since 2018, when Matt Ryan was under center. The retired quarterback became the franchise's president of football this year.</p><p>The Falcons will benefit from the return of a solid offensive line and key skill-position players like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/173995" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/173995">Drake London</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188153" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188153">Bijan Robinson</a> in 2026. However, it's unclear who will play quarterback for them. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199749" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199749">Michael Penix</a> is rehabbing a torn ACL, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14947" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/14947">Kirk Cousins</a>' future is uncertain due to his contract situation.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 23: Offensive Coordinator Tommy Rees of the Cleveland Browns looks on before the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Report: Falcons, Stefanski hiring Rees as OC

San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch confirmed Wednesday that wide receiver Brandon Aiy...

<p>San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch confirmed Wednesday that wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/125339" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/125339">Brandon Aiyuk</a> isn't expected to stay with the team.</p><p>"It's safe to say he has played his last snap with the 49ers," Lynch said of Aiyuk, according to <a href="https://x.com/957thegame/status/2014067527140385121">95.7 The Game</a>. "It's an unfortunate situation that just went awry. I will look long and hard at what could have been done differently, but sometimes it just doesn't work out. This was a case where that happened."</p><p>Aiyuk, 27, hasn't played since suffering a torn ACL in October 2024, months after he signed a four-year, $120-million extension. San Francisco recently signaled that a split between the two sides was coming by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3405182" href="https://thescore.com/news/3405182">reportedly</a> voiding the guaranteed money on Aiyuk's contract for 2026 after he failed to fulfill his contractual obligations.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Head coach Kyle Shanahan said in December that Aiyuk was no longer showing up to continue his injury rehab, adding that he hadn't seen the former second-team All-Pro wideout "in forever."</p><p>Aiyuk topped 1,000 yards during each of the last two seasons in which he played at least 16 games, in 2022 and '23.</p><p>With Aiyuk's departure imminent, Lynch said the team is committed to re-signing receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94099" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/94099">Jauan Jennings</a>.</p><p>"The passion that guy plays the game with is something I admire and always have. ... We can always count on Jauan," Lynch <a href="http://x.com/957thegame/status/2014068536831070236">said</a>.</p><p>Lynch added, "He plays the right way. He makes us better. We'd love to have him back, and we'll go to work to try and get that accomplished."</p><p>Jennings, who will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason, led all San Francisco wide receivers in catches (55), yards (643), and touchdown receptions (nine) in 2025.</p>

INGLEWOOD, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (11) celebrates with general manager John Lynch after the NFL game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Los Angeles Rams on September 17, 2023, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA.

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GM Lynch: 'Safe to say' Aiyuk won't remain with 49ers

Buffalo Bills owner Terry Pegula addressed the stunning decision to fire head coach Sean McDermot...

<p>Buffalo Bills owner Terry Pegula addressed the stunning decision to fire head coach Sean McDermott and retain general manager Brandon Beane during a press conference Wednesday.</p><p>"My decision to bring in a new coach was based on the results of our game in Denver," Pegula said, according to <a href="https://x.com/LLysowski/status/2013989669105553503?s=20">Lance Lysowski of The Buffalo News</a>. "I saw the pain in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94699" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/94699">Josh (Allen)</a>'s face at his presser, and I felt his pain. I know we can do better, and I know we will get there."</p><p>The Bills' season ended with a controversial overtime loss to the Denver Broncos, who kicked a walk-off field goal moments after the officials awarded Denver an interception on a contested play that would've put Buffalo in position to win with a field goal if ruled a catch.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Pegula strongly thinks the refs made "a bad call," according to <a href="https://x.com/MySportsUpdate/status/2013995764033225036">Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team</a>.</p><p>The Bills, who've consistently fallen short in the postseason with several heartbreaking losses in recent years, have yet to reach the Super Bowl in the Allen era.</p><p>"I felt like we had hit the proverbial playoff wall. Thirteen seconds. Missed field goal. The catch," Pegula added, according to <a href="https://x.com/SalSports/status/2013991661903245370?s=20">Sal Capaccio of WGR 550</a>.</p><p>Pegula said he didn't talk to Allen before choosing to part with McDermott but <a href="https://x.com/JonScottTV/status/2013995302852694377">added</a> that the star quarterback will have input as the team looks for a new coach, according to <a href="https://x.com/JonScottTV/status/2013994310119670015">Jon Scott of WGRZ</a>.</p><p>In perhaps his most candid comments from Wednesday's interview, Pegula interrupted Beane to address the draft selection of wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199774" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199774">Keon Coleman</a>. The Bills took Coleman with the 33rd pick in the 2024 draft, but the wideout has fallen well short of expectations. Pegula said that it was Buffalo's coaching staff - not Beane - who wanted the Florida State product.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Terry Pegula says the decision to draft Keon Coleman was pushed for by the coaching staff, and that he wasn’t Brandon Beane’s go to choice. <br><br>Says Beane was being a “team player”.<br><br>Via Bills Live<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BillsMafia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BillsMafia</a> <a href="https://t.co/Hd2Lls1KdP">pic.twitter.com/Hd2Lls1KdP</a></p>— Trainwreck Sports (@TrainwreckSprts) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrainwreckSprts/status/2013995996406059354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Pegula also downplayed a recent report from <a href="https://www.wgrz.com/article/sports/carucci-take2-no-simple-explanation-for-bills-firing-mcdermott/71-9d8d40ff-82a3-4fc0-add2-118840a3e368">WGRZ's Vic Carucci</a> stating that McDermott irked Pegula and Beane by criticizing the roster late in the season. McDermott reportedly pointed out what the roster lacked to win a Super Bowl during a meeting five weeks ago, and his assessment didn't sit well with Pegula and Beane.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Beane on report of a meeting 5 weeks ago, Pegula says he doesn't know where that came from but they would meet all the time about what's working and not.</p>— Sal Capaccio 🏈 (@SalSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/SalSports/status/2013991997514588663?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Under McDermott's watch, the Bills posted a 98-50 regular-season record from 2017-25, making the playoffs every year since 2019. However, Buffalo is 8-8 in the postseason over that span.</p><p>"What is success? Is it being in the playoffs seven straight years without a Super Bowl appearance?" Pegula said, according to <a href="https://x.com/JonScottTV/status/2013999265379397745">Scott</a>.</p><p>The Bills kicked off their head coaching search by requesting interviews with multiple familiar names, including Brian Daboll and Joe Brady.</p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 20: Owner Terry Pegula and head coach Sean McDermott of the Buffalo Bills walk the field prior to the game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on November 20, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

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Bills owner explains McDermott firing, pins Coleman pick on coaches

Mike McDaniel informed the Cleveland Browns that he's withdrawing from consideration for their he...

<p>Mike McDaniel informed the Cleveland Browns that he's withdrawing from consideration for their head coaching job, sources told <a href="https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/2013739393975021609?s=20">NFL Network's Tom Pelissero</a>.</p><p>McDaniel's reported decision comes a day before he was scheduled for an in-person interview with the Browns.</p><p>The 42-year-old remains a head coaching candidate for the Las Vegas Raiders and Baltimore Ravens, according to Pelissero. He's also reportedly received offers to become an offensive coordinator from multiple teams, including the Los Angeles Chargers.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>McDaniel emerged as one of the most intriguing candidates this coaching cycle after the Miami Dolphins fired him at the end of the regular season. The former offensive coordinator built a top-five offense with Miami in 2022 and '23. However, the Dolphins struggled to replicate that success in recent years, missing the playoffs in each of the past two seasons.</p><p>McDaniel was one of six reported candidates expected to meet with the Browns for a second time about their vacant job. Cleveland fired Kevin Stefanski on Jan. 5.</p><p>Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski, Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, Los Angeles Rams pass game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase, Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken, and Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz are also interviewing with Cleveland again.</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - OCTOBER 19: Head coach Mike McDaniel of the Miami Dolphins runs off the field at halftime against the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field on October 19, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Report: McDaniel withdraws from Browns' coaching search

New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh aims to change the franchise's culture right away, he sa...

<p>New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh aims to change the franchise's culture right away, he said at his introductory press conference Tuesday.</p><p>"I'm planning on Day 1. That's what we'll be shooting for, working for, and I fully expect it to happen," Harbaugh said when asked how long it'll take for him to build a winning culture in New York, according to <a href="https://x.com/SNYGiants/status/2013663383682236911?s=20">SNY</a>.</p><p>"You build anything together, you build it from the inside out. It's going to be a reflection. Culture is kind of a crazy word. ... What is it in football? It's a bunch of guys that see the game the same way. It's a bunch of guys that want to play the game together the same way. It's a relentless brotherhood. Having each other's back."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Harbaugh <a href="https://x.com/SNYGiants/status/2013662242533748759?s=20">added</a> that he's focused on building a "tough" team that is "capable of overwhelming their opponent from beginning to end."</p><p>"We're here with one mission ... to earn the right to be called the world champions in New York," the 63-year-old boss said.</p><p>Harbaugh signed a five-year contract with the Giants after a successful 18-year stint with the Baltimore Ravens. He said he's particularly excited to work with 2025 first-round quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209911" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209911">Jaxson Dart</a> after helping <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97162" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97162">Lamar Jackson</a> become a two-time MVP in Baltimore.</p><p>"To me, he's about football," Harbaugh said of Dart, according to <a href="https://x.com/SNYGiants/status/2013664494333911121?s=20">SNY</a>. "This young guy loves football. He wants to talk football all the time. That's kind of what I like doing too. We're going to have a lot of great conversations, and I can't wait to get started with him."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">John Harbaugh on what he’s looking for in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Giants?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Giants</a> players: “the number one thing is we have to have guys that love football… they love the games, they love the practices, they love the weight lifting, they love the meetings… if you love football you’re going to want to be here”</p>— Madelyn Burke (@MadelynBurke) <a href="https://twitter.com/MadelynBurke/status/2013663401411572214?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Harbaugh also addressed the Giants' new power structure, which changed with the veteran coach's arrival. He'll report directly to team ownership instead of fifth-year general manager Joe Schoen.</p><p>"It's really not that important," Harbaugh said, per <a href="https://x.com/SNYGiants/status/2013665818832257370">SNY</a>. "In the big picture, in the big scheme of things, it's overblown just a little bit in terms of how it works. ... We all report to the boss, right? And the boss is ownership."</p><p>Harbaugh revealed that he talked to his mentor, Andy Reid, after being fired by the Ravens. Reid won 130 games as the Philadelphia Eagles' head coach before becoming a three-time Super Bowl winner with the Kansas City Chiefs.</p><p>"'Change can be good,'" Harbaugh <a href="https://x.com/SNYGiants/status/2013665957583925729">recalled</a> Reid telling him.</p><p>Harbaugh posted a 180-113 regular-season record with the Ravens, turning the franchise into a powerhouse. They won one Super Bowl together during the 2012 season.</p><p>The Giants - one of the league's most popular teams - haven't made the playoffs since the 2022 campaign.</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - NOVEMBER 16: Head coach John Harbaugh of the Baltimore Ravens looks on during the second quarter against the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field on November 16, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Harbaugh: 'I fully expect' to build winning culture with Giants

Only four teams remain in the race for Super Bowl LX, and NFL fans could be in for a treat Feb. 8...

<p>Only four teams remain in the race for Super Bowl LX, and NFL fans could be in for a treat Feb. 8. Here's how this year's potential Super Bowl matchups stack up ahead of the conference title games.</p><h3>4) Broncos vs. Seahawks</h3><p>Remember what happened the last time Denver and Seattle played in a Super Bowl? Everything about both teams is different, but another potential Denver versus Seattle championship could have a similar outcome. That bout in the 2013 season didn't live up to the hype because the Peyton Manning-led Broncos' offense didn't do anything versus the Legion of Boom in a 43-8 Seahawks victory.</p><p>Would the 2025 Broncos, starting backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham over an injured Bo Nix, be able to accomplish much against the Seahawks and their elite defensive unit? Stidham has four career starts (zero in the postseason). As explosive as Denver's defensive unit may be, this matchup would be missing a lot without the Broncos' offense firing on all cylinders.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742558/cropped_GettyImages-2166678561.jpg?ts=1724642863" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742558/w220xh124_GettyImages-2166678561.jpg?ts=1724642863 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742558/w320xh180_GettyImages-2166678561.jpg?ts=1724642863 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742558/w640xh360_GettyImages-2166678561.jpg?ts=1724642863 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742558/w768xh432_GettyImages-2166678561.jpg?ts=1724642863 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742558/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2166678561.jpg?ts=1724642863 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Tyler Schank / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Jaxon Smith-Njigba matching up against Pat Surtain II could be an unreal battle, but Seahawks-Broncos would lack star power, too. Seattle and Denver will always be linked by the Russell Wilson trade to the Broncos; it's remarkable how quickly both teams rebuilt to get to where they are as 1-seeds. That said, we don't want to see a backup QB under center on football's biggest stage.</p><h3>3) Broncos vs. Rams</h3><p>It's hard to get very excited about the Broncos in a Super Bowl with a backup quarterback, but at least this would feature an interesting head coaching matchup between Sean Payton and Sean McVay. They're the only two sideline bosses left this postseason who have lifted the Lombardi Trophy as coaches. Payton helped the New Orleans Saints win it all in 2010, while the Rams won their second Super Bowl appearance under McVay's watch in '22.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818069/cropped_GettyImages-1649599908.jpg?ts=1768795920" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818069/w220xh124_GettyImages-1649599908.jpg?ts=1768795920 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818069/w320xh180_GettyImages-1649599908.jpg?ts=1768795920 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818069/w640xh360_GettyImages-1649599908.jpg?ts=1768795920 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818069/w768xh432_GettyImages-1649599908.jpg?ts=1768795920 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818069/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1649599908.jpg?ts=1768795920 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Dustin Bradford / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>This would also be a coaching rematch of the 2018 NFC title game, when Payton's Saints lost to McVay's Rams after an egregious <a href="https://x.com/ThePhantomFlag/status/1992819833709400339">unpenalized instance of pass interference</a> that helped Los Angeles.</p><p>The Rams led the NFL with 30.5 points per game during the 2025 regular season, while the Broncos had a league-high 68 sacks.</p><h3>2) Patriots vs. Seahawks</h3><p>There's a lot to like about this one, which would pit MVP contender Drake Maye against Seattle's top-ranked defensive unit. The Patriots' defense has also been red-hot lately, and it would be fascinating to see how its standout cornerbacks would defend Smith-Njigba, Cooper Kupp, and Co. These are both balanced teams that finished in the top five in scoring on offense and defense this season.</p><p>It would also represent a huge opportunity for Sam Darnold, the former New York Jets quarterback who's had a tough time against the Patriots in his career. Darnold's infamous four-interception "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0L9JcsKz0A">seeing ghosts</a>" game came against New England. But the 2018 No. 3 pick, who's now a solid starter on the Seahawks, has engineered a remarkable career turnaround.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814418/cropped_GettyImages-2250580862.jpg?ts=1766070429" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814418/w220xh124_GettyImages-2250580862.jpg?ts=1766070429 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814418/w320xh180_GettyImages-2250580862.jpg?ts=1766070429 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814418/w640xh360_GettyImages-2250580862.jpg?ts=1766070429 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814418/w768xh432_GettyImages-2250580862.jpg?ts=1766070429 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/814418/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2250580862.jpg?ts=1766070429 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Seahawks fans also would love to get revenge on the Patriots, who won Super Bowl XLIX over Seattle after Malcolm Butler's goal-line interception.</p><h3>1) Patriots vs. Rams</h3><p>New England versus Los Angeles in another Super Bowl would offer an intriguing East Coast-West Coast tilt with plenty of must-see storylines. Playoff history between the franchises? Check. MVP contenders in charge of each team? Check. Explosive offenses? Check. A new dynasty? Maybe.</p><p>A third Rams-Patriots clash would tie the Dallas Cowboys-Pittsburgh Steelers rivalry for the most Super Bowl meetings between the same teams. The Rams are 0-2 in championship games versus the Patriots, who emerged victorious in 2002 and '19. New England coach Mike Vrabel played in the Pats' first Super Bowl triumph over the Rams. McVay was already in charge of L.A. in the more recent clash, but his offense was limited to three points.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/337694/cropped_GettyImages-1093446438.jpg?ts=1549256541" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/337694/w220xh124_GettyImages-1093446438.jpg?ts=1549256541 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/337694/w320xh180_GettyImages-1093446438.jpg?ts=1549256541 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/337694/w640xh360_GettyImages-1093446438.jpg?ts=1549256541 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/337694/w768xh432_GettyImages-1093446438.jpg?ts=1549256541 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/337694/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1093446438.jpg?ts=1549256541 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Harry How / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Tom Brady's first and last Super Bowl titles as a Patriot came against the Rams. Maye would be in a position to make a statement as New England's new franchise guy against the same opponent. Los Angeles is led by Matthew Stafford, who's the favorite to win the MVP award over Maye (the NFL Honors show takes place three days before the championship game). New England and L.A. scored more regular-season points than any other teams in the league thanks to their quarterbacks' superb play.</p><p>The Pats reaching another Super Bowl just six years after the end of the Brady era would make headlines. Presumably, not every NFL fan would be thrilled given New England's history of postseason success. But the threat of the Patriots potentially starting a new era of brilliance while going up against another perennial contender would make for a must-watch Super Bowl. It would mark the Rams' third appearance in the championship game in eight seasons.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34192711/related

Ranking the 4 potential Super Bowl LX matchups

The Miami Dolphins hired Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley as their head coach,...

<p>The Miami Dolphins hired Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley as their head coach, the team announced Monday.</p><p>He'll reportedly sign a five-year contract, according to <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/2013397947153592593?s=20">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.</p><p>Hafley had his second interview with Miami on Monday. The 46-year-old has been with the Packers since 2024, and their defensive unit improved significantly under his watch.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He served as head coach at Boston College for four seasons from 2020-23.</p><p>In Miami, Hafley replaces Mike McDaniel, who lost his job after the Dolphins missed the playoffs for a second straight year. The team hasn't won a playoff game since the 2000 campaign.</p><p>The Dolphins enter the 2026 offseason with major questions on both sides of the ball after ranking 25th in points scored and 24th in points allowed. It's still unclear who will coordinate Miami's offense next season, but Hafley's expertise could help the team's defensive unit.</p><p>Green Bay ranked ninth in defensive EPA/play over the past two seasons.</p><p>Miami hired Hafley two weeks after bringing on a new general manager in former Packers executive Jon-Eric Sullivan. Together, they'll have to address the Dolphins' quarterback situation, as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/114411" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/114411">Tua Tagovailoa</a>'s future with the team remains undetermined.</p><p>Tagovailoa recently said he'd welcome a fresh start on another team after being benched in the final weeks of the 2025 regular season. However, he signed a massive four-year extension in '24, and parting with him would cost Miami $99.2 million in dead cap.</p>

GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - DECEMBER 27: Defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley of the Green Bay Packers looks on before the game against the Baltimore Ravens at Lambeau Field on December 27, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

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Dolphins hire Packers' Hafley as coach

The Kansas City Chiefs are reuniting with Eric Bieniemy.  Kansas City is expected to hire Bieniem...

<p>The Kansas City Chiefs are reuniting with Eric Bieniemy.</p><p>Kansas City is expected to hire Bieniemy as its new offensive coordinator, sources told <a href="https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/2013364110864330896?s=20">NFL Network's Tom Pelissero</a>.</p><p>Bieniemy previously spent a decade with the Chiefs, including five seasons as the team's offensive coordinator. The 56-year-old helped Andy Reid, Patrick Mahomes, and Co. win two Super Bowl titles from 2018-22.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The reported reunion between Bieniemy and the Chiefs all but guarantees that Matt Nagy won't return to Reid's staff in 2026. Nagy, whose contract with K.C. expired, has also generated head coaching interest this coaching cycle and is a finalist for the Tennessee Titans' vacant job.</p><p>Bieniemy, once one of the NFL's hottest coaching candidates, left Kansas City in 2023 to become the Washington Commanders' offensive coordinator and full-time play-caller for the first time. He lasted only one season with Washington.</p><p>Bieniemy spent the 2024 campaign as UCLA's offensive coordinator before serving as the Chicago Bears' running backs coach in '25.</p><p>One of the biggest challenges in his return to Kansas City will be improving the Chiefs' passing attack. The Mahomes-led unit lacked consistency in 2025, and the team missed the playoffs with a 6-11 record. Mahomes suffered a torn ACL in December, but he recently said his goal is to be ready for the 2026 opener.</p>

DENVER, COLORADO - JANUARY 08: Offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy of the Kansas City Chiefs looks on during a game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High on January 8, 2022 in Denver, Colorado.

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Report: Bieniemy returning to Chiefs as OC

The Detroit Lions are finalizing a deal to hire Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petz...

<p>The Detroit Lions are finalizing a deal to hire Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing as their next OC, sources told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/2013334149856158118?s=20">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.</p><p>The Lions have been looking for a new offensive coordinator since parting with John Morton at the end of the regular season. Morton lasted only one season as Detroit's OC and was fired after the team missed the playoffs in its first year without Ben Johnson in charge of the offense.</p><p>The 2025 Lions ranked fourth in points scored, but Dan Campbell took Morton's play-calling duties midway through the season. Petzing is expected to call plays for Detroit in 2026.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Petzing has been with the Cardinals since the 2023 season. The 38-year-old first joined the NFL as a football operations intern for the Cleveland Browns in 2013, and he's had multiple roles with different teams throughout his career.</p><p>Arizona didn't boast a dominant offensive unit under Petzing's watch, ranking 23rd in EPA/play this past regular season. However, Petzing encountered challenges at quarterback and other premium positions that presumably won't be issues for him on the Lions.</p><p>Petzing's best season with Arizona came in 2024, when the team ranked 10th in EPA/play and 12th in scoring.</p>

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - NOVEMBER 23: Offensive Coordinator Drew Petzing of the Arizona Cardinals prepares for the Jacksonville Jaguars during the NFL 2025 game at State Farm Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona.

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Report: Lions hiring Cardinals' Petzing as OC

Buffalo Bills players took to social media to react to the team's decision to part ways with head...

<p>Buffalo Bills players took to social media to react to the team's decision to part ways with head coach Sean McDermott on Monday, just two days after a controversial overtime loss to the Denver Broncos in the divisional round.</p><p>The Bills again fell short in the playoffs, losing 33-30 to the Broncos in a matchup overshadowed by a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3458179" href="https://thescore.com/news/3458179">questionable</a> interception call on a contested play that could've set up Buffalo to kick a game-winning field goal if ruled a catch. Still looking to reach their first Super Bowl in the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94699" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/94699">Josh Allen</a> era, the Bills opted to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3459325" href="https://thescore.com/news/3459325">move on</a> from McDermott after nine seasons while retaining general manager Brandon Beane.</p><p>Defensive lineman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/55432" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/55432">Jordan Phillips</a> called McDermott's departure "stupid" in an <a href="https://x.com/Schultz_Report/status/2013294060295930184">Instagram post</a>, adding that he's "the best coach I've ever been around."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/46664" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/46664">DaQuan Jones</a> also wasn't a fan of the change.</p><p>"Doesn't make sense, but ya got what ya wanted," Jones <a href="https://x.com/danfetes/status/2013296359483252880?s=20">wrote</a>.</p><p>Phillips and Jones were among many Bills players to share negative reactions to the move.</p><p>"He changed the whole culture," linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/61614" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/61614">Shaq Lawson</a> stated.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Shaq Lawson and Levi Wallace chime in on the McDermott news on Instagram.<br><br>“Shit don’t make sense. He changed the whole culture.” -Lawson<br><br>“One of the best I’ve been around.” -Wallace <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BillsMafia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BillsMafia</a> <a href="https://t.co/uzS94wjLek">pic.twitter.com/uzS94wjLek</a></p>— Ryan Talbot (@RyanTalbotBills) <a href="https://twitter.com/RyanTalbotBills/status/2013300687552086259?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2026</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Taron Johnson IG stories:<br><br>‘Smh’<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BillsMafia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BillsMafia</a> <a href="https://t.co/st96MlOS91">pic.twitter.com/st96MlOS91</a></p>— Dan Fetes (@danfetes) <a href="https://twitter.com/danfetes/status/2013283510778204460?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2026</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">True leader amongst a world full of alphas’s , Honored and Truly Best to learn under our Time. McDeezzyyyy You Are Truly One Of them Ones. 💔 Until The Grass Meets us Again <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YouAlreadyShnow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YouAlreadyShnow</a> <a href="https://t.co/GAMqreeilo">pic.twitter.com/GAMqreeilo</a></p>— Dion Dawkins (@DDawkins66) <a href="https://twitter.com/DDawkins66/status/2013323401880916198?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2026</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Maxwell Hairston on Sean McDermott:<br><br>“Forever grateful.” <a href="https://t.co/0aV0Fvfn9B">pic.twitter.com/0aV0Fvfn9B</a></p>— Ryan Talbot (@RyanTalbotBills) <a href="https://twitter.com/RyanTalbotBills/status/2013295221505753279?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2026</a>
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<p lang="art" dir="ltr">💔💔💔.</p>— 𝐃𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐫 𝐇𝐚𝐦𝐥𝐢𝐧 (@HamlinIsland) <a href="https://twitter.com/HamlinIsland/status/2013293172231692620?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2026</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">A True Leader Of Men. <br><br>Thank You For Everything! On &amp; Beyond The Field. We Love You Coach. 🫶🏾🫶🏾🫶🏾 <a href="https://t.co/3EFaeybgVU">pic.twitter.com/3EFaeybgVU</a></p>— 𝐃𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐫 𝐇𝐚𝐦𝐥𝐢𝐧 (@HamlinIsland) <a href="https://twitter.com/HamlinIsland/status/2013308021741334971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2026</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Message from a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bills?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bills</a> player I reached out to about Sean McDermott being fired:<br><br>“I’m shook.”<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BillsMafia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BillsMafia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BuffaloPlus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BuffaloPlus</a></p>— Dan Fetes (@danfetes) <a href="https://twitter.com/danfetes/status/2013290105583054913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2026</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Reaction from one <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bills?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bills</a> player I reached out to regarding Sean McDermott firing:<br><br>“Think it’s bullsh*t tbh”</p>— Jon Scott (@JonScottTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/JonScottTV/status/2013271837984141810?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2026</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Talked to 3 Bills players this morning who are just learning news HC Sean McDermott was fired after we all did. They were all shocked.<br><br>One text, “WTF.”</p>— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) <a href="https://twitter.com/CameronWolfe/status/2013261681267188113?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>A pair of former Bills players also weighed in on the stunning decision. Defensive lineman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/70792" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/70792">Eli Ankou</a>, who had multiple stints with Buffalo from 2021-24, <a href="https://x.com/kfitz134/status/2013295121421205880/photo/3">described</a> it as a "scapegoat" move.</p><p>"This a finger-pointing competition?" Ankou added.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Best coach I’ve been around <a href="https://t.co/gziI5Z43aM">https://t.co/gziI5Z43aM</a></p>— Kendrick J. Green (@The_fridge53) <a href="https://twitter.com/The_fridge53/status/2013294051542311030?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 02: Head coach Sean McDermott of the Buffalo Bills celebrates with Jordan Phillips #52 during the second quarter in the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Highmark Stadium on November 02, 2025 in Orchard Park, New York.

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Bills players react to McDermott's 'stupid' firing: 'Doesn't make sense'

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Caio Miari

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Brenden Deeg

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Bryan Mcwilliam

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