Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko said Thursday he isn't expecting Shemar Stewart to play for the Ag...

Texas A&amp;M head coach Mike Elko said Thursday he isn't expecting <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209924" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209924">Shemar Stewart</a> to play for the Aggies again, shutting down speculation that the first-round edge rusher could go back to college football amid a contract dispute with the Cincinnati Bengals.The Bengals selected Stewart 17th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, but the 21-year-old remains unsigned. Stewart, who left Cincinnati's minicamp due to his contract situation, has been working out in College Station alongside former Texas A&amp;M teammates."There's no intentions of Shemar to play for the Aggies this year," Elko told ESPN's Shae Cornette, via <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45764247/coach-says-bengals-pick-shemar-stewart-not-returning-texas-am">ESPN's Ben Baby</a>. "But Shemar has been around. He's very comfortable in our program. Really likes what we do training-wise. He's been training, getting ready for his season this year with the Bengals. We wish him the best."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The disagreement between the Bengals and Stewart reportedly stems from a clause Cincinnati wants to include in the first-rounder's rookie deal that would allow the team to void future guarantees under certain conditions. That language apparently wasn't included in <a href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199745" target="_blank">Amarius Mims</a>' rookie contract after the Bengals drafted him in the first round in 2024.Stewart technically left Texas A&amp;M with one year of NCAA eligibility remaining. However, if a player enters the NFL draft before his college eligibility has expired and is selected, he's likely "jeopardized his NCAA eligibility," an NCAA official told <a href="https://x.com/MarkMaske/status/1945924955796910244">Mark Maske of The Washington Post</a>.If Stewart doesn't play in the NFL or another pro league this season, he would be eligible for the 2026 draft, and the Bengals wouldn't be <a href="https://x.com/MarkMaske/status/1945921299940815123">allowed</a> to select him."Everyone's goal is to play in the NFL. Shemar was so excited to be drafted by Cincinnati. Hopefully, he gets an opportunity to be a part of that city," Stewart's agent, Zac Hiller, said in a statement, per <a href="https://x.com/MarkMaske/status/1945923660226670745">Maske</a>.The Bengals have until Week 10 of the regular season to sign Stewart to his rookie contract, or he'd be ineligible to play this campaign, <a href="https://x.com/MarkMaske/status/1945920991848243282">Maske</a> notes. In that case, Cincinnati would still retain the right to ink the pass-rusher to an NFL contract until the 2026 draft.Cincy's defense could use help after ranking 25th in points allowed in 2024, which contributed to the team missing the playoffs despite boasting one of the league's best offenses.Stewart put on a show at the NFL combine to bolster his draft stock, overcoming an unimpressive total of 4.5 sacks across three seasons at Texas A&amp;M.

GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - APRIL 24: Edge Rusher Shemar Stewart of Texas A&M walks on the red carpet prior to the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft on April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

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Elko: Stewart won't return to Texas A&M amid dispute with Bengals

Every NFL team has question marks with training camps set to begin and the regular season weeks a...

Every NFL team has question marks with training camps set to begin and the regular season weeks away. Quarterbacks normally steal the headlines, so we're going a different route by identifying one major question that doesn't center on each club's passer.Below are the biggest questions in the AFC entering camp. Tap a team's abbreviation below to read its entry. <h3>
AFC | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3311361" href="https://thescore.com/news/3311361">NFC</a>
</h3>Jump to: <a href="#BAL">BAL</a> | <a href="#BUF">BUF</a> | <a href="#CIN">CIN</a> | <a href="#CLE">CLE</a> | <a href="#DEN">DEN</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#JAX">JAX</a> | <a href="#KC">KC</a> | <a href="#LAC">LAC</a> | <a href="#LV">LV</a> | <a href="#MIA">MIA</a> | <a href="#NE">NE</a> | <a href="#NYJ">NYJ</a> | <a href="#PIT">PIT</a> | <a href="#TEN">TEN</a><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a id="BAL" name="BAL">Baltimore Ravens</a></h3>➡️ How do Ravens transition from Andrews to Likely?It felt like the Ravens could've flipped the page from Mark Andrews to Isaiah Likely as their leading tight end last season, but Andrews got better as the season progressed. Still, the former Pro Bowler averaged under 40 yards per game for the first time in six years, while Likely set career highs with 42 catches, 477 yards, and six touchdowns. It'll be interesting to see what Baltimore does next with both players entering contract years and Andrews turning 30 in September.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793089/cropped_GettyImages-2178248071.jpg?ts=1751722440" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793089/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178248071.jpg?ts=1751722440 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793089/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178248071.jpg?ts=1751722440 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793089/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178248071.jpg?ts=1751722440 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793089/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178248071.jpg?ts=1751722440 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793089/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178248071.jpg?ts=1751722440 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Patrick Smith / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure><h3><a id="BUF" name="BUF">Buffalo Bills</a></h3>👀 Will Cook practice without new contract?Entering his rookie deal's final year, James Cook has said he hopes the Bills will pay him what he deserves. He was in attendance for minicamp and is expected to report for training camp. However, would the 25-year-old consider a hold-in to get an extension after amassing 2,834 yards and 24 touchdowns from scrimmage in the past two seasons?<h3><a id="CIN" name="CIN">Cincinnati Bengals</a></h3>🤷 Will Hendrickson, Stewart report?Thanks to contract disputes, Cincinnati could contend with some notable absences to start camp. The team has yet to extend Trey Hendrickson after he led the NFL in sacks last season, and first-round rookie Shemar Stewart remains unsigned. Subpar defensive performances cost the Bengals a playoff spot, so they need their best edge rushers firing on all cylinders as soon as possible.<h3><a id="CLE" name="CLE">Cleveland Browns</a></h3>😤 How can Stefanski's more physical camp help?Kevin Stefanski <a href="https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2025/06/how-kevin-stefanskis-new-toughness-mandate-is-transforming-the-browns.html">wants to make the Browns tougher</a> after they suffered from injuries and seemingly weren't as physical as their opponents at times last season. Cleveland revamped its health and performance staff and reports from minicamp stated that the players' intensity was higher. We'll know more about this culture change at training camp. It could help the Browns bounce back and even save Stefanski's job, as another poor season would likely lead to a coaching change in Cleveland.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753846/cropped_GettyImages-2182725172.jpg?ts=1730908588" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753846/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182725172.jpg?ts=1730908588 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753846/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182725172.jpg?ts=1730908588 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753846/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182725172.jpg?ts=1730908588 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753846/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182725172.jpg?ts=1730908588 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753846/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182725172.jpg?ts=1730908588 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Jason Miller / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure><h3><a id="DEN" name="DEN">Denver Broncos</a></h3>🃏 What does Engram bring to the offense?Denver signed Evan Engram to address an obvious need after its No. 1 tight end in 2024, Adam Trautman, only managed 188 yards. But Engram could be more than TE1. Sean Payton <a href="https://www.denverbroncos.com/news/a-joker-a-cleaner-te-evan-engram-ready-to-contribute-to-broncos-offense-no-matter-the-nickname">pitched</a> him on a "Joker" role, as the coach looks for a playmaker with standout catching skills to create mismatches in the middle of the field. Payton successfully deployed the likes of Jimmy Graham, Reggie Bush, Alvin Kamara, and Darren Sproles in that role in the past. Engram could be a good fit in Denver; he ranked second among TEs in yards after the catch in 2023, and the 2024 Broncos placed in the top 10 in that category.<h3><a id="HOU" name="HOU">Houston Texans</a></h3>🤠 How does new-look OL come together?Every starting spot in the Texans' O-line could be up for grabs after they parted ways with three starters. Houston mixed different offensive line combinations during OTAs, but its first configuration featured left tackle Cam Robinson, left guard Laken Tomlinson, center Jake Andrews, right guard Tytus Howard, and right tackle Blake Fisher. Still in the mix are four interior linemen in Jarrett Patterson, Juice Scruggs, Ed Ingram, and Jaylon Thomas, and three tackles in rookie Aireontae Ersery, Austin Deculus, and Trent Brown, who has experience on both sides but has been sidelined due to injury.<h3><a id="IND" name="IND">Indianapolis Colts</a></h3>🐎 Will the young pass-rushers step up?Indy has invested heavily in its front four in recent years but is still waiting for results. The Colts used their first two picks in 2021 on edge rushers, including Kwity Paye, who has yet to post more than nine sacks in a season. Indianapolis made Laiatu Latu the first defender drafted in 2024, but the pass-rusher was inconsistent as a rookie. This year, the Colts took edge rusher JT Tuimoloau 45th overall after ranking 24th in pressures.<h3><a id="JAX" name="JAX">Jacksonville Jaguars</a></h3>🌟 How will Jaguars deploy Travis Hunter?The two-way star dominated college football by standing out on offense and defense, and now everyone wants to know how Jacksonville will utilize him in the pros. The rookie wide receiver/cornerback practiced at both positions during minicamp in June, and training camp will give us an even better indication of what the Jaguars expect from him.<h3><a id="KC" name="KC">Kansas City Chiefs</a></h3>💪 Who starts on left side of O-line?The left tackle spot has been a concern for the Chiefs, who couldn't find consistency at the position for most of 2024 due to injuries and subpar play. Their solution was moving Joe Thuney from guard to tackle, but Thuney is now gone. First-round rookie Josh Simmons, who's recovering from a knee injury, and free-agency acquisition Jaylon Moore are expected to fight for a spot to protect Patrick Mahomes' blind side. Kingsley Suamataia, drafted in Round 2 in '24 as a left tackle, is transitioning to left guard, where he'll compete with Mike Caliendo.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793090/cropped_GettyImages-2220104060.jpg?ts=1751722630" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793090/w220xh124_GettyImages-2220104060.jpg?ts=1751722630 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793090/w320xh180_GettyImages-2220104060.jpg?ts=1751722630 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793090/w640xh360_GettyImages-2220104060.jpg?ts=1751722630 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793090/w768xh432_GettyImages-2220104060.jpg?ts=1751722630 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793090/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2220104060.jpg?ts=1751722630 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</figcaption></figure><h3><a id="LAC" name="LAC">Los Angeles Chargers</a></h3>🏃 What can we expect from revamped RB room?Jim Harbaugh's and Greg Roman's first season with the Chargers made it clear that their offense needs an efficient run game to function, and Los Angeles enters training camp with more upside after using a first-round pick on Omarion Hampton and signing four-time 1,000-yard rusher Najee Harris. With J.K. Dobbins leading the way, Harbaugh's outfit finished 2024 with the 12th-most rushing attempts, but it ranked 18th in EPA/carry.<h3><a id="LV" name="LV">Las Vegas Raiders</a></h3>🎰 How quickly can Carroll change the culture?Among other major offseason changes, the Raiders welcomed a new head coach, hiring Pete Carroll and giving him a much-improved roster led by quarterback Geno Smith and this year's top running back prospect, Ashton Jeanty. They're hoping Carroll - one of the most respected coaches of his generation - will reshape a franchise that's cycled through numerous coaches and QBs in the past two decades while dealing with endless off-field distractions and losing seasons. The Raiders, who haven't won a playoff game since 2003, also welcomed Tom Brady as a minority owner and John Spytek as general manager this year.<h3><a id="MIA" name="MIA">Miami Dolphins</a></h3>⛽ Does Waller have anything left in tank?The Dolphins made a surprise trade for Darren Waller, who's trying to extend his NFL career after announcing his retirement after the 2023 season. The timing of Waller's unexpected return is great, as Miami is looking for a new TE1 after trading away Jonnu Smith. But it remains to be seen how much Waller - a two-time 1,000-yard tight end - can still contribute. He turns 33 in September and hasn't played a full season since 2020.<h3><a id="NE" name="NE">New England Patriots</a></h3>🤨 Is Diggs good enough to carry WR room?Surrounding Drake Maye with better receivers was a must after DeMario Douglas was New England's leading WR with 621 yards in '24. So the Patriots added Stefon Diggs, Mack Hollins, and third-round rookie Kyle Williams. Diggs is supposed to be the No. 1 guy, but the four-time Pro Bowler turns 32 this year and suffered a torn ACL in October. Training camp will give us a better idea of whether Diggs and Co. will be able to help Maye.<h3><a id="NYJ" name="NYJ">New York Jets</a></h3>🤼 Can Allen wrestle carries away from Hall?Breece Hall is the Jets' RB1, but Braelon Allen could take on a more prominent role in Year 2. Allen turned 21 in January, and at 6-foot-1 and 235 pounds, he offers the size and physicality coaches love. Hall is in a contract year, and though he's had great moments in the NFL, he also suffered six fumbles in 2024 and posted 4.2 yards per carry, his lowest single-season average. If Hall's inconsistencies continue and force the new coaching staff to rethink the team's future at running back, Allen could be the answer.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745275/cropped_GettyImages-2172197532.jpg?ts=1726429076" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745275/w220xh124_GettyImages-2172197532.jpg?ts=1726429076 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745275/w320xh180_GettyImages-2172197532.jpg?ts=1726429076 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745275/w640xh360_GettyImages-2172197532.jpg?ts=1726429076 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745275/w768xh432_GettyImages-2172197532.jpg?ts=1726429076 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745275/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2172197532.jpg?ts=1726429076 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Justin Ford / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure><h3><a id="PIT" name="PIT">Pittsburgh Steelers</a></h3>🍷 Are the new starting CBs "experienced" or "old"?Pittsburgh added Jalen Ramsey and Darius Slay this year in hopes they're aging like fine wine. Once the NFL's best corner, the 30-year-old Ramsey declined from his All-Pro level during his tenure in Miami. Slay, a key starter for the Philadelphia Eagles in recent seasons, turned 34 this year and could fall off a cliff at any time. Both players will have a chance to prove that age is just a number while going up against a younger group of receivers led by DK Metcalf and Calvin Austin at camp.<h3><a id="TEN" name="TEN">Tennessee Titans</a></h3>💸 Was Titans' money well spent in free agency?The Titans welcomed receivers Tyler Lockett and Van Jefferson, linemen Dan Moore Jr. and Kevin Zeitler, linebackers Dre'Mont Jones and Cody Barton, and safety Xavier Woods in free agency. Tennessee deserves credit for addressing its biggest needs, but most of the acquisitions come with questions. Giving left tackle Moore $82 million for four years was likely a massive overpay. Barton's contract includes more than $13 million in guarantees. Lockett, Jefferson, and Jones are low-risk, one-year signings, but it's hard to envision them moving the needle for a team coming off a 3-14 campaign. Training camp will help indicate whether the Titans are moving in the right direction.

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1 non-QB question for every AFC team entering camp

The Montreal Canadiens signed forward Joe Veleno to a one-year contract, the team announced Wedne...

The Montreal Canadiens signed forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10511" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10511">Joe Veleno</a> to a one-year contract, the team announced Wednesday.The deal is worth $900K, according to <a href="https://x.com/TheFourthPeriod/status/1945499290949788133">The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta</a>.Veleno, 25, played 74 games in 2024-25, spending time with the Detroit Red Wings and Chicago Blackhawks. He scored eight goals and added nine assists on the season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Quebec native, who has 306 NHL appearances under his belt, is just one year removed from a 2023-24 season in which he tallied a career-high 28 points.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Joe Veleno, signed 1x$0.9M by MTL, is a depth centre with decent wheels and forechecking. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoHabsGo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoHabsGo</a> <a href="https://t.co/YvjODZuTXQ">pic.twitter.com/YvjODZuTXQ</a>— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/JFreshHockey/status/1945501915703353406?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Seattle Kraken placed Veleno on waivers June 29 for purposes of a buyout. The Kraken acquired him in a trade from the Chicago Blackhawks for forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3074" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3074">Andre Burakovsky</a> on June 21.

MONTREAL, CANADA - APRIL 14: Joe Veleno #90 of the Chicago Blackhawks skates during the third period against the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre on April 14, 2025 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The Chicago Blackhawks defeated the Montreal Canadiens 4-3 in a shootout.

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Habs sign Veleno to 1-year contract

Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian is embracing the high expectations around the Longhorns ahead of...

Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian is embracing the high expectations around the Longhorns ahead of the 2025 season."This is a championship roster," Sarkisian said Tuesday at SEC media days, according to <a href="https://x.com/GrahamCoffeyDC/status/1945201585090441367">Dawgs Central's Graham Coffey</a>.Texas is entering its second season in the SEC. The team stepped up in its first year in the conference, reaching the College Football Playoff semifinal and finishing the campaign 13-3.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Sarkisian's outfit is now turning to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/184393" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/184393">Arch Manning</a> as its starting quarterback. The promising former five-star recruit mostly served as the backup in his first two seasons in college football."He learned a lot over time," the sideline boss said of Manning, according to <a href="https://x.com/Brett_McMurphy/status/1945205343815901471">On3's Brett McMurphy</a>. "He watched Quinn (Ewers) navigate the ups and downs."Manning echoed his coach's words, adding that he's very familiar with Texas' offensive system. "It was tough in the moment sitting, but I think I've learned a lot about myself growing as a player and a person," the passer said, per <a href="https://x.com/ClowESPN/status/1945216816541782372">ESPN's Chris Low</a>. "Any time you can be in the same system for three years is a huge benefit."Sarkisian didn't elaborate on whether he expects Manning, who could enter the 2026 NFL Draft, to remain at Texas after the upcoming campaign."I just want the guy to have a really good season this year, and we'll cross that bridge when he comes to it," Sarkisian said, according to <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/1945184037183557859">ESPN's Pete Thamel</a>. "I hope he has a really hard decision to make, because that means he played really good."We won't have to wait long to find out if Sarkisian is right about Texas boasting a championship-caliber roster: The Longhorns kick off their 2025 campaign Aug. 30 in a highly anticipated matchup against the Ohio State Buckeyes, the reigning national champions who eliminated Texas in the CFP this past season.

ARLINGTON, TX - JANUARY 10: Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian looks on during warm-ups during the CFP Semifinal Cotton Bowl Classic football game between the Ohio State Buckeyes and Texas Longhorns on January 10, 2025 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX.

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Sarkisian: Texas has 'a championship roster'

The Kansas City Chiefs signed franchise-tagged lineman Trey Smith to a contract extension, the te...

The Kansas City Chiefs signed franchise-tagged lineman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161967" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161967">Trey Smith</a> to a contract extension, the team announced Tuesday.It's a four-year, $94-million deal that makes Smith the NFL's highest-paid guard, sources told NFL insider <a href="https://x.com/Schultz_Report/status/1945178639235998174">Jordan Schultz</a>. The extension reportedly includes $70 million guaranteed.One of K.C.'s most reliable blockers, Smith started two of the team's Super Bowl wins in the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/89514" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/89514">Patrick Mahomes</a> and Andy Reid era. The superstar quarterback reacted to Smith's extension on social media.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
😁— Patrick Mahomes II (@PatrickMahomes) <a href="https://twitter.com/PatrickMahomes/status/1945181267021963424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Smith, 26, has made 67 starts since the Chiefs drafted him in the sixth round in 2021. The Tennessee product allowed just one sack last year and has given up five in the past three seasons, according to PFF.Kansas City also rosters the league's top-paid center in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161823" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161823">Creed Humphrey</a>, who signed a four-year, $72-million extension in 2024.

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - DECEMBER 31: Trey Smith #65 of the Kansas City Chiefs runs onto the field during player introductions before an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on December 31, 2023 in Kansas City, Missouri.

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Report: Chiefs make Smith top-paid guard with 4-year, $94M extension

Washington Commanders receiver Terry McLaurin addressed his contract situation Tuesday, voicing h...

Washington Commanders receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87889" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87889">Terry McLaurin</a> addressed his contract situation Tuesday, voicing his disappointment with the team as he looks for an extension."I've been pretty frustrated, I'm not going to lie," McLaurin said, according to team reporter <a href="https://x.com/BenStandig/status/1945163164263276983">Ben Standing</a>. "Everything that has transpired up until this point has been disappointing and frustrating. I've wanted to continue my career here."He added, "Obviously, I understand everything is a business, but at the same time, I want to put myself in a position where I'm valued, and I feel appreciated and things like that. Unfortunately, that hasn't transpired the way I wanted to, so I'm trying to take things day by day."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>McLaurin, who skipped mandatory minicamp, said he has yet to decide whether he'll report to training camp next week without a new contract."I was hoping up until this point things would clear up a lot more than they have," the wideout added, according to <a href="https://x.com/JPFinlayNBCS/status/1945164993957068969">JP Finlay of NBC Sports</a>. "I'm going to see how the rest of this week goes."The 29-year-old, who's spent his entire career in Washington, said that there's been no discussion about an extension with the Commanders since June. However, he added that he's committed to reaching an agreement to remain with the franchise. "I want to be here. I want to make that abundantly clear," McLaurin said, per <a href="https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/1945163981410160930">NFL Network's Tom Pelissero</a>.McLaurin is looking for a contract that pays him north of $30 million per season, according to <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1945262548179107984">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>. He has one year left on his contract and is due a base salary of $15.5 million in 2025. Commanders general manager Adam Peters said in May that he wanted to keep his leading pass-catcher "for a long time."McLaurin has five 1,000-yard seasons under his belt, and the 2019 third-round pick set a career high with 13 touchdown receptions in 2024 en route to earning his first second-team All-Pro berth. He's led Washington in receiving yards every year since entering the NFL.The Commanders, who reached the NFC title game this past campaign, have been aggressive this offseason, hoping to upgrade the supporting cast around quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199756" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199756">Jayden Daniels</a>. Washington traded for wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87611" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87611">Deebo Samuel</a> and offensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/77282" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/77282">Laremy Tunsil</a>, among other moves.

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JANUARY 18: Terry McLaurin #17 of the Washington Commanders looks on prior to an NFL Football game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on January 18, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

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McLaurin 'pretty frustrated' with Commanders amid negotiations

Russell Wilson hasn't played his best football in years, but the veteran quarterback believes he ...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/12258" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/12258">Russell Wilson</a> hasn't played his best football in years, but the veteran quarterback believes he has a lot left in the tank after joining the New York Giants ahead of his age-37 season."I feel like I'm 25 years old all over again," Wilson recently told <a href="https://www.si.com/nfl/russell-wilson-new-york-giants-offseason-digital-cover">Sports Illustrated's Conor Orr</a>. "And I think part of that is just physically I feel great. Mentally, I feel amazing in terms of, it's possible. Ultimately, a big part of it is the people you're around, the players, the coaching staff, the mentality of the guys. And then being in the city. The energy of it is for people that like to be fast-paced, which is me."Wilson, one of football's best dual-threat QBs and deep-ball passers in his prime, last threw for more than 26 touchdowns in a season in 2020.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 10-time Pro Bowler signed a one-year deal with the Giants, his third team in as many seasons. The Seattle Seahawks traded him to the Denver Broncos in 2022, but his stint in Colorado lasted only two years before he was released. Wilson spent 2024 with the Pittsburgh Steelers, passing for 16 touchdowns against five interceptions in 11 starts."I can still throw the ball a long ways, 65, 70 yards," Wilson said. "I can still move. And I think that I'm capable of a lot. It's funny because to me, being in Denver my first year, I was hurt most of the time and battled through it. The second year, I felt like myself again. Then going to Pittsburgh, obviously, unfortunately I got injured early in the season, (and it) didn't end up the way we wanted it to. But it just rejuvenated everything. And then being here, it's like, playing the stadium again, knowing that I've held the trophy there ."Wilson spent his first 10 NFL seasons in Seattle, leading the league with 34 touchdowns in 2017 and helping the Seahawks win a Super Bowl at MetLife Stadium during the 2013 campaign. He also led the team to another Big Game appearance where Seattle fell short against the New England Patriots.Wilson believes he's a great fit on the Giants, and he has the support of a former New York Knicks star."Me and Carmelo (Anthony) were talking about this," Wilson added. "He's like, 'Man, this is the perfect place for you to re-establish and have everybody realize who Russell Wilson really is.'" The Giants were 3-14 in 2024. They've posted one winning season since 2017.Wilson enters training camp as their QB1, but their quarterback depth chart also features first-round rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209911" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209911">Jaxson Dart</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/64259" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/64259">Jameis Winston</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188915" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188915">Tommy DeVito</a>.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ- JUNE 12: Russell Wilson #3 of the New York Giants passes the football during New York Giants OTA practice on June 12, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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'Rejuvenated' Wilson: Giants the perfect place for me

Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George underwent a successful arthroscopic procedure on his left kne...

Philadelphia 76ers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/1889" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/1889">Paul George</a> underwent a successful arthroscopic procedure on his left knee Monday to treat an injury suffered during a recent workout, a team official told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1944888905024561199">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.George will be re-evaluated at some point before the start of training camp, Charania adds.The injury didn't involve any major ligaments, a source told <a href="https://x.com/KyleNeubeck/status/1944892435278057781">Kyle Neubeck of PHLY Sports</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Staying healthy has been an issue for George, whose first season in Philly ended prematurely due to multiple injuries, including a knee issue. The 35-year-old played in 41 games during a disappointing 2024-25 campaign, averaging 16.2 points, 4.3 assists, and 5.3 rebounds.The nine-time All-Star signed a four-year, $212-million contract with Philadelphia in 2024, joining a promising 76ers team led by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a>. However, injuries devastated Philly's 2024-25 season, as Embiid and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93855" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93855">Tyrese Maxey</a> also missed extended time, contributing to the team's 24-58 record.

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - MARCH 4: Paul George #8 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on March 4, 2025 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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76ers' George undergoes knee procedure after workout injury

Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin expects the legendary Nick Saban to come out ot retirement and re...

Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin expects the legendary Nick Saban to come out ot retirement and return to the sidelines at some point."I don't think he's done," Kiffin said of Saban at SEC media days Monday, according to <a href="https://x.com/Sam_Hutchens_/status/1944837499097952678">Sam Hutchens of the Mississippi Clarion Ledger</a>. Kiffin added: "He'll be back. Whether that's college or NFL, I think he'll be back."Saban retired at the end of the 2023 season as arguably the greatest coach in college football history. The 73-year-old won six titles across 17 seasons at Alabama. He also led LSU to a national championship earlier in his career.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Saban also spent time in the NFL, notably serving as Miami Dolphins head coach from 2005-06.He joined ESPN as an analyst for College GameDay after calling it a career in January 2024.Kiffin served as Saban's assistant on the Crimson Tide, working as offensive coordinator from 2014-16. They won the 2015 national title together.

TUSCALOOSA, ALABAMA - SEPTEMBER 23: Head coach Nick Saban of the Alabama Crimson Tide and head coach Lane Kiffin of the Mississippi Rebels converse prior to their game at Bryant-Denny Stadium on September 23, 2023 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

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Ole Miss' Kiffin: Nick Saban will coach again

The New York Jets are signing wide receiver Garrett Wilson to a four-year, $130-million extension...

The New York Jets are signing wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/173982" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/173982">Garrett Wilson</a> to a four-year, $130-million extension that includes $90 million guaranteed, sources told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1944856494270538124">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.The deal marks the first time in NFL history that a receiver secured a contract averaging more than $31 million per year after playing only three NFL seasons, notes Schefter.Wilson's new $32.5-million average annual salary ranks fifth among wideouts behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161655" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161655">Ja'Marr Chase</a> ($40.2 million), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/122708" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/122708">Justin Jefferson</a> ($35 million), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/120335" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/120335">CeeDee Lamb</a> ($34 million), and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/111570" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/111570">DK Metcalf </a>($33 million).<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Now signed through 2030, Wilson has topped 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first three campaigns despite the Jets' inconsistencies at the quarterback position. He's caught passes from eight different QBs and is projected to have a new passer in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161671" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161671">Justin Fields</a> this coming season.The 2022 Offensive Rookie of the Year set career highs with 101 receptions, 1,104 yards, and seven touchdowns in 2024. Wilson has played in every game since New York drafted him 10th overall in '22.The Jets' 2022 draft class also features two-time All-Pro cornerback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/173983" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/173983">Sauce Gardner</a>, who's next in line to sign a massive contract extension in New York. Edge rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/173984" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/173984">Jermaine Johnson</a> was taken in the first round that year as well. Although Johnson played in only two games in 2024 due to an Achilles injury, the team exercised his fifth-year option in April.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - OCTOBER 31: Garrett Wilson #5 of the New York Jets catches a pass to score a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Houston Texans, at MetLife Stadium on October 31, 2024 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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Report: Jets sign Garrett Wilson to 4-year, $130M extension

Vanderbilt has never played in the SEC title game in Atlanta, but Commodores quarterback Diego Pa...

Vanderbilt has never played in the SEC title game in Atlanta, but Commodores quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/176570" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/176570">Diego Pavia</a> believes they're talented enough to make a big jump and even contend for an unexpected conference championship this season."One, we have the talent to do it this year," Pavia <a href="https://www.secsports.com/videos/2025/07/qb-diego-pavia-remains-bullish-on-vandys-sec-title-chances">said</a> Monday at SEC media days. "Two, we return a lot of talent. And then three - this is probably the biggest reason - (tight end) <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/162809" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/162809">Eli Stowers</a> and a few of the guys have brought everyone closer to Christ. Really, I feel like He's shielding us to this alley, to take us there. I've envisioned it. I've had dreams of it. ... The belief is there."The mission ain't finished. We want to win a national championship," Pavia added, according to <a href="https://x.com/ClowESPN/status/1944846427441782787">ESPN's Chris Low</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Pavia has reasons to be excited. In 2024, Vanderbilt recorded its first bowl victory and winning season since 2013. The 7-6 Commodores notably defeated Alabama during the campaign, securing their first win over the Crimson Tide since 1984.The returning QB, who transferred from New Mexico State last year, accounted for 28 touchdowns with just four interceptions, earning 2024 SEC Newcomer of the Year honors and a second-team All-SEC nod.Pavia said he expects Vanderbilt to continue improving and potentially become one of the nation's most dominant teams."We want to run off with this thing. We want to put in the work to not make these games close anymore, to really take off," Pavia said. "I think it was Alabama when they had Mac Jones and the Heisman winner DeVonta Smith, and they just took off with games. We want to put our pedal to the metal and just take off."Vanderbilt head coach Clark Lea echoed Pavia's comments, expressing confidence that his team can make a deep run and potentially even reach the College Football Playoff."We believe we have what it takes to play into January," Lea said Monday, according to <a href="https://x.com/Brett_McMurphy/status/1944841274978394572">On3's Brett McMurphy</a>.The Commodores kick off their 2025 season Aug. 30 against Charleston Southern before they go on a two-game road trip to play Virginia Tech and South Carolina. Vanderbilt missed Georgia this year but will face Alabama and LSU in back-to-back weeks in October. Road matchups against Texas and Tennessee are also part of the Commodores' schedule.

ATLANTA, GA - JULY 14: Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Diego Pavia (2) addresses the media during SEC Football Media Days on July 14, 2025, at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta, GA.

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Pavia: Vanderbilt talented enough to reach SEC title game

Bucks president Peter Feigin addressed Giannis Antetokounmpo's future during Milwaukee's Summer L...

Bucks president Peter Feigin addressed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a>'s future during Milwaukee's Summer League game Sunday, suggesting nothing has changed between the franchise and its superstar."It's where we've been for 10 years," Feigin said during the live <a href="https://x.com/NBATV/status/1944584745200804195">broadcast</a>. "Giannis loves Milwaukee, Milwaukee loves Giannis. We're at a good place. We feel great about it. It's business as usual."Antetokounmpo's future has been a hot topic since the Bucks were eliminated by the Indiana Pacers in five games in the first round of the playoffs this past season. The two-time MVP was reportedly open to the possibility of leaving the Bucks, who don't seem close to contending for a championship after recently parting ways with injured guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5343" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5343">Damian Lillard</a>. Antetokounmpo was apparently <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3306614" href="https://thescore.com/news/3306614">unhappy</a> with Lillard's release.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Multiple teams were linked to Antetokounmpo once rumors about a possible Bucks exit surfaced, including the Houston Rockets and Toronto Raptors."We get a fun little joy in everybody else thinking they know what's going on and what the clickbait is, but for us, we're in a good spot," Feigin added. "Giannis is in good place, he's enjoying the summer. We're looking forward to next season."Antetokounmpo has been an MVP contender and one of the NBA's best defenders for most of his career. He averaged 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game this past season.The 30-year-old led the Bucks to an NBA title in 2021, but Milwaukee has since won just one series in the postseason. The team has been eliminated in the first round in each of the past three campaigns.Milwaukee's biggest acquisition so far this offseason has been former Pacers center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37711" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37711">Myles Turner</a>.

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - MARCH 01: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks reacts toward the crowd after hitting a three point shot during the second half of the game against the Orlando Magic at Fiserv Forum on March 01, 2023 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Bucks president: Giannis relationship in 'good place'

Four teams contacted LeBron James' agent, Rich Paul, with interest in trading for the Los Angeles...

Four teams contacted <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a>' agent, Rich Paul, with interest in trading for the Los Angeles Lakers superstar, Paul recently told <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/1944216266958680280">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a> during Summer League in Las Vegas.Despite the interest, Paul reiterated that James hasn't requested to be traded."Paul also made it clear to me that LeBron has not asked for a trade, and Paul hasn't even discussed the possibility of wanting a trade in the future with the Lakers," Paul told McMenamin.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>James declined to address his future Saturday during the Lakers' game."I ain't got nothing to talk about," James said, according to McMenamin. <figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
With LeBron James at the Lakers game tonight, I asked him if he would like to speak to me about his future with the franchise. “I ain’t got nothing to talk about,” he said. My report for ESPN from Las Vegas. <a href="https://t.co/sFRgCYHmqw">pic.twitter.com/sFRgCYHmqw</a>— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) <a href="https://twitter.com/mcten/status/1944216266958680280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Paul's latest comments on James' future come after he <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3295036" href="https://thescore.com/news/3295036">said</a> June 30 - the day James exercised his $52.6-million player option with L.A. - that the four-time MVP would evaluate the best scenario for him to compete for another championship while the Lakers also build a team for the future around <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a>."For the Lakers, it's business as usual," McMenamin reported Saturday. "They have the motivation to compete at the highest level and optimize not just LeBron's timeline, but they want to compete now with Luka Doncic. Some are positive that the true cause of this situation was the Lakers not offering LeBron a contract beyond next season, but Rich Paul told me they never asked for one."James, who's played 22 NBA seasons, is entering the last year of his contract with Los Angeles. The 40-year-old is coming off a strong campaign, posting 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per game across 70 appearances.The Lakers went 50-32 in 2024-25, good for third in the West, but their season ended with a first-round loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.Los Angeles made a blockbuster in-season trade this past campaign to acquire Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks. Doncic turned 26 in February.The Lakers' most notable roster addition so far this offseason was signing former No. 1 pick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60079" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60079">Deandre Ayton</a>.

SACRAMENTO, CA - DECEMBER 21: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on from the bench prior to the game against the Sacramento Kings on December 21, 2024 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Rich Paul: LeBron hasn't asked for trade, 4 teams showed interest

Los Angeles Chargers rookies reported for training camp Saturday, but L.A.'s group of first-year ...

Los Angeles Chargers rookies reported for training camp Saturday, but L.A.'s group of first-year players is missing one of its top names.Second-round receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209993" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209993">Tre Harris</a> is holding out, as he remains unsigned due to a disagreement over guaranteed money on his first NFL contract, sources told <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1944172088010715619">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>.The majority of this year's draft picks have already signed their four-year rookie contracts, but most Round 2 selections notably remain unsigned.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>In May, Houston Texans receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210032" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210032">Jayden Higgins</a> signed the first-ever fully guaranteed rookie contract for a second-rounder, which has affected how other Round 2 choices negotiate their deals. Cleveland Browns linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209989" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209989">Carson Schwesinger</a>, who also inked a fully guaranteed pact, is the only other second-round pick signed so far.The Chargers drafted Harris 55th overall in April after the wideout spent his last two college football seasons at Ole Miss. The 23-year-old caught 60 passes for a career-high 1,030 yards and seven touchdowns in 2024.

EL SEGUNDO, CALIFORNIA - MAY 12: Tre Harris #9 of the Los Angeles Chargers catches the ball during the Los Angeles Chargers offseason workouts at The Bolt on May 12, 2025 in El Segundo, California.

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Report: Chargers' 2nd-round rookie Harris holding out of training camp

Hall of Fame wide receiver and Minnesota Vikings legend Randy Moss praised Justin Jefferson, sayi...

Hall of Fame wide receiver and Minnesota Vikings legend Randy Moss praised <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/122708" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/122708">Justin Jefferson</a>, saying the 2022 Offensive Player of the Year could become the top wideout in NFL history one day."Justin Jefferson is on pace to be arguably the greatest (receiver) ever and definitely the greatest Viking to ever do it," Moss recently told <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqgD7niKL7s">TMZ Sports</a>."Big fan of Justin's," Moss added. "I've always been a fan of a complete football player, where you can score from anywhere on the field, and Justin brings that to the table."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Jefferson, 26, has put on a show since entering the NFL as the 22nd pick in the 2020 draft, earning first- or second-team All-Pro berths in four of his five NFL seasons. He led the league in receiving during his age-23 campaign, becoming the youngest receiver ever to top the NFL in catches and yards.The LSU product has caught 495 career passes for 40 touchdowns and 7,432 yards, the most in league history through a player's first five seasons. Jefferson's 96.5 yards is an NFL record.However, Moss - inarguably one of the greatest pass-catchers of all time - believes Jefferson needs more touchdowns to potentially become one of the GOATs."At our position, it's not about the yards," Moss said. "The yards is what gets you the likes and hearts and all of that, but if you really want to be legendary - this is speaking for all wide receivers, not just Justin Jefferson - you gotta find ways to get into that end zone and bring out of the stands up out of their seats."He added: "For him to go down as the greatest Viking and arguably the greatest wire receiver to ever do it, I need to see more of Justin getting in that box."Jefferson has never scored more than 10 touchdowns in a season. He tied a career high with 10 in 2024. His 40 TD catches since 2020 rank seventh in the NFL.Moss places second in the all-time leaderboard with 156 career touchdown receptions. He's led the league in that category five times, including the 2007 campaign when he set a single-season record with 23 TD grabs.Three-time Super Bowl champion Jerry Rice leads the NFL with 1,549 career catches, 22,895 receiving yards, and 197 touchdown catches.

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JANUARY 5: Justin Jefferson #18 of the Minnesota Vikings catches a pass during the first half of an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on January 5, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Randy Moss: Jefferson on pace to be arguably greatest WR ever

Eli Manning won't go ahead with his plans of buying an ownership stake in the New York Giants.  "...

Eli Manning won't go ahead with his plans of buying an ownership stake in the New York Giants."Basically, it's too expensive for me," Manning told <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/video/2025/07/09/eli-manning-walks-away-from-ownership-bid-for-the-new-york-giants.html">CNBC Sport</a>. "These numbers are getting very big."In April, reports emerged that Manning was assembling an investment group to pursue a stake of up to 10% in the Giants, a franchise he led to two Super Bowl titles during his 16-season career.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Giants made a limited stake available as they explored the potential sale of up to 10% of the team. The Mara and Tisch families each own 50% of the club.It's unclear how much Manning would have to pay to become a minority owner of the franchise, but <a href="https://www.forbes.com/teams/new-york-giants/">Forbes calculated</a> the Giants' value at $7.3 billion in August 2024. The retired quarterback suggested that the price is significantly higher."A 1% stake of something valued at $10 billion, it turns into a very big number," Manning added.The former Super Bowl MVP also explained that purchasing a stake in the Giants would've caused conflicts of interest for him."I love the Giants, and I think it is deserving of that valuation. There will be people that want to go for it, and I was kind of along for the ride," Manning said. "But it really was a matter of some complications with the fact that I'm doing broadcasting. I wouldn't be able to talk to the players. I coach in the Pro Bowl. I do a high school football camp where college guys come. There would be a lot of conflicts, and it was going to affect my day job, so I kind of had to pull out of the Giants deal."In May, the San Francisco 49ers sold 6.2% of the team at a $8.5 billion valuation, a record for an NFL team in a sale.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - OCTOBER 13: Eli Manning looks on before the game between the New York Giants and the Cincinnati Bengals at MetLife Stadium on October 13, 2024 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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Eli won't buy ownership stake in Giants: 'Too expensive for me'

Colorado head coach Deion Sanders believes college football should implement a salary cap to incr...

Colorado head coach Deion Sanders believes college football should implement a salary cap to increase the sport's competitiveness in its new era."I wish there was a cap," Sanders said Wednesday at Big 12 media days, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/45703663/deion-sanders-says-college-football-needs-salary-cap">ESPN's Adam Rittenberg</a>. "The top-of-the-line player makes this, and if you're not that type of guy, you know you're not going to make that. That's what the NFL does."The problem is, you got a guy that's not that darn good, but he could go to another school, and they give him half a million dollars. You can't compete with that. And it don't make sense."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Sanders backed his comments by noting that the schools spending more money on players will have more success in the College Football Playoff."You understand darn near why they're in the playoffs," he added. "It's kind of hard to compete with somebody who's giving $25 million to $30 million to a freshman class. It's crazy."The landscape of college football has undergone significant changes with the introduction of the NIL deals in 2021 and the House v. NCAA settlement taking effect this year. While the settlement establishes a system that allows schools to share revenue and pay athletes directly within a cap, there is no cap limiting NIL deals, notes <a href="https://www.si.com/college-football/deion-sanders-explains-wants-college-football-salary-cap-nil">Sports Illustrated's Tyler Lauletta</a>.

FRISCO, TX - JULY 09: Colorado Buffaloes coach Deion Sanders gets ready before taking the stage to talk during day two of Big 12 Media Days on Wednesday, July 09, 2025 at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, TX.

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Deion Sanders says CFB needs salary cap

The New York Yankees released DJ LeMahieu on Thursday after designating the former star infielder...

The New York Yankees released <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2093" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2093">DJ LeMahieu</a> on Thursday after designating the former star infielder for assignment a day earlier.LeMahieu, who turns 37 on Sunday, is owed almost $22 million on the remainder of his contract, which runs through 2026, according to <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/1943044911227425070">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>. He signed a six-year deal worth $90 million with New York in 2021."I ultimately made a decision that is best for the roster configuration moving forward," Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said Wednesday about parting ways with LeMahieu, according to SNY.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Brian Cashman explains why the Yankees' roster configuration with DJ LeMahieu on the team was "not something I could leave comfortably" <a href="https://t.co/R6fpDSMMIB">pic.twitter.com/R6fpDSMMIB</a>— Yankees Videos (@snyyankees) <a href="https://twitter.com/snyyankees/status/1943049954542399785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The split comes after the Yankees decided to move <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9520" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9520">Jazz Chisholm Jr.</a> back from third base to second base and take LeMahieu, who'd been playing second, out of the everyday lineup."It's been a tough couple days, some hard conversations, and then ultimately coming to this decision, obviously not easy for what's been a great player," Boone said, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6481539/2025/07/09/dj-lemahieu-yankees-designate-for-assignment/?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=mlbtw&amp;source=mlbtw">Chris Kirschner of The Athletic</a>. "He's done a lot of great things for this organization, but at the end, I feel like this is the right thing to do at this time."LeMahieu joined the Yankees in 2019 at the peak of his career after earning two All-Star nods as a member of the Colorado Rockies. He had an immediate impact in N.Y. and finished third in MVP voting while claiming his second career batting title in 2020. However, he hasn't replicated that success lately, posting a .266/.338/.336 slash line with two home runs in 142 plate appearances this season.The Yankees recalled infielder Jorbit Vivas from Triple-A in a corresponding roster move. Boone said Wednesday that Vivas, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12545" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12545">Oswald Peraza</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11068" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11068">J.C. Escarra</a> are New York's options at third.New York also shuffled its bullpen ahead of Wednesday's game by selecting Cam Schlittler from Triple-A and designating Geoff Hartlieb for assignment.

Tampa, FL: New York Yankees' DJ LeMahieu during drills at George M. Steinbrenner Field during spring training in Tampa, Florida on Feb. 17, 2025.

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Yankees release LeMahieu with nearly $22M left on deal

Arizona State head coach Kenny Dillingham grabbed headlines with a viral quote Tuesday while addr...

Arizona State head coach Kenny Dillingham grabbed headlines with a viral quote Tuesday while addressing the new era of college football. "To me, recruiting is dead. Retention is alive," Dillingham said at Big 12 media days, according to <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/1942723795443167721">ESPN's Pete Thamel</a>. "It's not about recruiting. I don't care if we're ranked dead last in recruiting my entire career here."He added, "It'd be like if the draft was for one year, then half of your draft picks leave. So it's all about retention now. That's my entire thing."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Dillingham, who helped the Sun Devils win the Big 12 and reach the College Football Playoff in their first season in the conference last year, explained that he's more focused on being honest with his players than promising things he may not be able to get done."Are we going to lose a lot of recruits because I'm not going to tell the kid he's going to make half-a-million dollars and put in the contract that I can change your salary at my discretion, which is happening. ... I'm not going to do that," the reigning Big 12 Coach of the Year said, according to <a href="https://x.com/MaxZepedaSports/status/1942707998616609235">Max Zepeda of Cronkite Sports</a>. "We're going to miss out on a lot of kids right now, but we're going to get a lot of kids back when they realize that it's a little bit of fool's gold out there in college football."Dillingham continued: "It's all about retaining the guys on your team. It's all about treating the guys on your team great. If you treat the guys on your team great, when you get a good player, he's gonna stay there. If you are constantly looking for the next best thing to replace the guys on your team, then your own guys on your team should leave. Why wouldn't they? If you're not loyal to them, they shouldn't be loyal to you. That's the thing I take a lot of pride in."College football has undergone major changes recently, with NIL deals the new norm. The recent House v. NCAA settlement, which took effect July 1, only adds to the significant shift by allowing schools to share revenue and pay athletes directly for their performance."Our best players are going to make the most money on the team. If you have a problem with that, become our best player. If you're not the best player and you want to make more money, then yeah, I'm going to help you leave," Dillingham said.He added: "Our best young guys deserve to make the next-most so they can grow into playing. We're all about production. We're all about doing it in our program, and I think that's why a lot of our players stay here. They know we're gonna take care of them; they deserve it. They know we're gonna treat them fairly."

FRISCO, TX - JULY 08: Arizona State Sun Devils coach Kenny Dillingham talks during day one of Big 12 Media Days on Tuesday, July 08, 2025 at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, TX.

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Dillingham focused on 'retention' at ASU: 'Recruiting is dead'

The Miami Dolphins were the only team that crossed Darren Waller's mind after the tight end recen...

The Miami Dolphins were the only team that crossed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/52575" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/52575">Darren Waller</a>'s mind after the tight end recently decided to come out of retirement, according to his agent, Drew Rosenhaus.Waller initially called it a career after playing the 2023 season for the New York Giants. Once the 32-year-old decided to extend his NFL journey, Rosenhaus said it was easy for N.Y. to work on a trade with the tight end-needy Dolphins."I got a phone call last Friday, the last week of June, from Darren, and he said, 'Drew, I've decided that I want to play again. I miss football, I've got the itch to play, the love of the game is back, and I'd like to play for the Miami Dolphins,'" Rosenhaus recently told <a href="https://x.com/TheMozKnowz/status/1942077654284263747">Josh Moser of Sports Xtra</a> while explaining Waller's unexpected return.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"To (Giants general manager) Joe Schoen's credit and (Dolphins GM) Chris Grier's credit, those two got together and quickly worked out a deal."Miami and New York reportedly agreed to a trade July 1. The Dolphins officially announced the deal July 7, adding Waller and a 2027 conditional seventh-round pick in exchange for a 2026 sixth-round selection.Waller could be a clutch addition for the Dolphins, who had questions at the tight end position after trading <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/74834" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/74834">Jonnu Smith</a> to the Pittsburgh Steelers on June 30. A two-time 1,000-yard TE, Waller finished 2023 with 52 catches for 552 yards and one touchdown in 12 games.This wasn't the first time Rosenhaus had seen one of his clients come out of retirement and request a trade immediately. Legendary tight end Rob Gronkowski also left the New England Patriots to play with Tom Brady on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after one season out of the league."This was a very similar scenario," Rosenhaus said. "When Gronk told me he was coming out of retirement, but he only wanted to play for Tampa, we had to work out a trade between Tampa and the Patriots. Going through that with Gronkowski really helped related to Darren deciding he was coming out of retirement and only wanted to play for the Dolphins."

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 08: Darren Waller #12 of the New York Giants makes a catch against the Miami Dolphins during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium on October 08, 2023 in Miami Gardens, Florida.

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Waller's agent: TE only wanted to play for Dolphins after unretiring

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