Four-time MVP quarterback Aaron Rodgers agreed to terms with the Pittsburgh Steelers on a one-yea...

<p>Four-time MVP quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/747" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/747">Aaron Rodgers</a> agreed to terms with the Pittsburgh Steelers on a one-year deal, the team announced Thursday.</p><p>Financial terms of the contract haven't been announced, and the deal is pending a physical.</p><p>Rodgers will fly to Pittsburgh on Friday and sign his pact before next week's minicamp, where he's expected to be on the field, according to <a href="https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/1930704736929374368">NFL Network's Tom Pelissero</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Contract parameters have been in place for months, Pelissero adds.</p><p>The Steelers had been waiting on Rodgers' decision since he visited the team facility in March. Head coach Mike Tomlin previously said there was no deadline. Rodgers had reportedly made the Steelers confident he would eventually join but was delayed by dealing with personal matters, and the front office was fully supportive, according to <a href="https://x.com/JayGlazer/status/1930709386323980550">Fox Sports' Jay Glazer</a>.</p><p>The 10-time Pro Bowler will immediately elevate a Steelers quarterback room that featured only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/83531" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/83531">Mason Rudolph</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174124" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174124">Skylar Thompson</a>, and sixth-round rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210204" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210204">Will Howard</a>.</p><p>Rodgers' first opponent as a member of the Steelers will be his former team, the New York Jets, in Week 1. The Jets will be quarterbacked by ex-Steeler <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161671" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161671">Justin Fields</a>, making it the NFL's first ever season-opening game between starting passers who swapped teams they started for the previous season, according to <a href="https://x.com/RichCimini/status/1930706303640613006">ESPN's Rich Cimini</a>. The veteran will have another revenge matchup versus the Green Bay Packers in Week 8.</p><p>Rodgers spent two disappointing years with the Jets before they released him this offseason. He tore his Achilles four snaps into his 2023 season debut with the club and returned in 2024, but he could only muster a 5-12 record with 28 touchdowns to 11 interceptions. Rodgers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3269607" href="https://thescore.com/news/3269607">said</a> the organization made him fly from California to New York only to inform him of his release "20 seconds in" to the conversation.</p><p>The 41-year-old signal-caller's resume features 62,952 yards, 503 touchdowns, and 116 interceptions across his career. Rodgers won his only championship against the Steelers, a 31-25 Packers victory in Super Bowl XLV in which he threw for three touchdowns and no interceptions.</p>

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - OCTOBER 20: Aaron Rodgers #8 of the New York Jets in action during the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium on October 20, 2024 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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Rodgers signing 1-year deal with Steelers

Mercedes reserve driver Valtteri Bottas believes any potential of occupying a Red Bull seat in 20...

<p>Mercedes reserve driver Valtteri Bottas believes any potential of occupying a Red Bull seat in 2025 ended quickly due to a sense of dislike from at least one person within the team.</p><p>"It was put down quite quickly because I think there's certain persons or a person within the Red Bull organization that for some reason is not a big fan of mine. But that's life," Bottas said on F1's "Beyond The Grid" podcast.</p><p>It's believed Bottas was referring to Red Bull senior adviser Helmut Marko, who's not keen on the Finnish driver and was upset in 2021 when Bottas started a major crash in Hungary that caused severe damage to Max Verstappen's car, according to <a href="https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/bottas-offers-himself-to-red-bull-but-theres-a-problem/">Scott Mitchell-Malm of The Race</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bottas, who was unable to find a race seat for 2025 after being let go by Sauber following last season, is still eyeing a return to the grid for 2026. He adds he's unsure whether Red Bull would ever divert from its junior academy but thinks the team could benefit from a seasoned driver.</p><p>"It's a tough one because it seems like it's not an easy car to drive," Bottas explained. "Obviously Max is doing the job. He's really pushing almost beyond the limits of the car, and whoever has been alongside him hasn't looked great.</p><p>"I just wonder if that car to be driven fast needs a driver with experience. That's my speculation, but I think they know that I'm keen to race. They know that I would be available for next year, but I don't know their mindset on that."</p><p>Red Bull is already on its second driver to partner Verstappen this season and third since 2024. Yuki Tsunoda replaced Liam Lawson, who took over for Sergio Perez to start the 2025 campaign.</p><p>Bottas, who has 10 wins, 20 poles, and 67 podiums over his career, revealed his management team has likely had talks with Alpine for 2026. He also noted the possibility of joining newcomer Cadillac next season, calling it a "very interesting project."</p>

Mercedes' reserve driver Valtteri Bottas arrives at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, Spain. Picture date: Thursday May 25, 2025.

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Bottas: A 'certain' person ended my chances of 2025 Red Bull seat

It seems like another payday could be coming Lamar Jackson's way in the future.  General manager ...

<p>It seems like another payday could be coming <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97162" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97162">Lamar Jackson</a>'s way in the future.</p><p>General manager Eric DeCosta revealed the two sides engaged in contract talks before and during the draft and as recently as last week.</p><p>"I think we're in the introductory sort of stage of looking at what an extension might look like," DeCosta said on the "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&amp;v=kbNNFXSGkC8">BMore Baseball Podcast</a>," according to team reporter <a href="https://www.baltimoreravens.com/news/late-for-work-eric-decosta-gives-update-on-lamar-jackson-contract-extension-talks">Kevin Eck</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Ravens handed Jackson a five-year, $260-million contract in 2023, which made him the NFL's highest-paid player at the time. New quarterback deals have slid the two-time league MVP down the rankings. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/50470" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/50470">Dak Prescott</a> is currently the highest-paid QB with an average annual value of $60 million, while Jackson is 10th with a $52-million AAV. Other passers ahead of Jackson include <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/114411" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/114411">Tua Tagovailoa</a> ($53.1 million), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/71572" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/71572">Jared Goff</a> ($53 million), and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174189" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174189">Brock Purdy</a> ($53 million).</p><p>Jackson has been in the MVP conversation in each of the last two years while playing some of the best football of his career. He won the award in 2023 and finished as runner-up to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94699" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/94699">Josh Allen</a> last season after throwing for 41 touchdowns to eight interceptions with a league-best 119.6 passer rating. He also rushed for 915 yards and four scores in 2024.</p>

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 19: Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens looks to pass prior to an NFL Football game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium on January 19, 2025 in Orchard Park, New York.

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Ravens GM: Lamar extension talks at 'introductory' stage

The Pittsburgh Steelers and former Defensive Player of the Year T.J. Watt have been discussing a ...

<p>The Pittsburgh Steelers and former Defensive Player of the Year <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/74678" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/74678">T.J. Watt</a> have been discussing a contract extension, sources told the <a href="https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/steelers/2025/06/02/nfl-otas-tj-watt-contract-omar-khan/stories/202506020024">Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Gerry Dulac</a>.</p><p>The expectation is that the two sides will agree to a new deal before the regular season begins, Dulac reports.</p><p>The market for edge rushers ballooned this offseason when the Cleveland Browns signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87669" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87669">Myles Garrett</a> to a four-year, $160-million deal with $124 million guaranteed. Garrett's $40-million average annual value is more than $4 million higher than the next closest edge rusher (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/60658" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/60658">Danielle Hunter</a>, $35.6-million AAV) and is the highest among all defensive players, per <a href="https://overthecap.com/contracts">Over The Cap</a>. The Dallas Cowboys' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161667" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161667">Micah Parsons</a> is also in line for a lucrative extension.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Watt was initially the NFL's highest-paid defender when he inked a four-year, $112-million extension in 2021. </p><p>The 30-year-old has registered at least 10 sacks in six of the last seven seasons, including 22.5 in 2021, which tied the NFL record. He finished last year with 11.5 sacks over 17 starts.</p>

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - JANUARY 11: T.J. Watt #90 of the Pittsburgh Steelers stands for the national anthem prior to a Wild Card Playoff Game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on January 11, 2025, in Baltimore, Maryland. The Ravens defeated the Steelers 28-14. (Kara Durrette/Getty Images)

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Report: Steelers, Watt discussing new contract

We'll offer our takeaways following each race weekend this year. Here are our thoughts after the ...

<p><em>We'll offer our takeaways following each race weekend this year. Here are our thoughts after the Spanish Grand Prix.</em></p><h3>Moments that decided the race 👀</h3><p><strong>Verstappen's frustration reaches boiling point</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788370/cropped_GettyImages-2217521366.jpg?ts=1748806485" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788370/w220xh124_GettyImages-2217521366.jpg?ts=1748806485 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788370/w320xh180_GettyImages-2217521366.jpg?ts=1748806485 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788370/w640xh360_GettyImages-2217521366.jpg?ts=1748806485 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788370/w768xh432_GettyImages-2217521366.jpg?ts=1748806485 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788370/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2217521366.jpg?ts=1748806485 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Track temperatures at the Barcelona circuit neared 50 degrees Celsius, but that was probably still cooler than the temperature inside the cockpit of Max Verstappen's car after a race of desperation from Red Bull.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Verstappen's frustration hit a boiling point on Lap 64 when he barged into the side of George Russell after being ordered to concede the position. That move resulted in a 10-second penalty, dropping him to 10th - his worst finish in eight seasons. Verstappen has found himself in situations like this one many times before - situations where he takes matters, and his frustration, into his own hands. And yet every situation like this ends with no benefit to Verstappen, who left Barcelona with only one point.</p><p>But the Dutch champion wasn't the only one who snapped. Red Bull's operation seemingly had nothing left in the tank under the Spanish heat.</p><p>It started with promise, as Verstappen overtook Lando Norris on Lap 1. But by Lap 13, he was powerless to defend due to a lack of pace. It was an early gut punch for a team that at one point thought this weekend's flexi-wing clampdown would hurt its rivals and that an Imola package fixed its tire management problems.</p><p>Then, when a safety car was ordered on Lap 55, Red Bull made a series of critical errors that doomed Verstappen's race. With no soft tires remaining due to the three-stop strategy, the champion was forced to pit for new hard tires. Staying with the used softs would arguably have been better than going with the hard compounds. After all, no other driver or team touched or even considered the hards due to their severe lack of grip.</p><p>Verstappen had to steer himself out of a spin before being passed by Charles Leclerc for the final podium spot, and then came Russell with an opportunistic lunge at Turn 1, which forced Verstappen off. The Red Bull pilot retained the position by taking an escape road before the team advised him to give the place to Russell. Verstappen argued it was not necessary before ultimately relenting, but not without driving into Russell first.</p><p>As it turned out, Verstappen was right, though it did little to redeem his race.</p><p>Red Bull has spent all of 2025 convincing itself, the world, and maybe even Verstappen that McLaren was catchable, but cracks were already showing in its attempt to keep up. In Spain, that finally created a pressure cooker.</p><p>What was supposed to be a weekend that rejuvenated Milton Keynes instead ended up being a self-inflicted knockout blow. Verstappen fell 49 points behind Piastri and is now just one penalty point away from a full race ban.</p><p><strong>McLaren survives flexi-wing controversy </strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788371/cropped_GettyImages-2217525988.jpg?ts=1748806522" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788371/w220xh124_GettyImages-2217525988.jpg?ts=1748806522 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788371/w320xh180_GettyImages-2217525988.jpg?ts=1748806522 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788371/w640xh360_GettyImages-2217525988.jpg?ts=1748806522 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788371/w768xh432_GettyImages-2217525988.jpg?ts=1748806522 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788371/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2217525988.jpg?ts=1748806522 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Spanish GP was where the FIA implemented its harsher testing on the amount of flexibility permitted on front wings, and some speculated that could knock McLaren down a notch. But hopes of a significant change in the competitive balance left Red Bull disappointed, while it was business as usual at McLaren.</p><p>McLaren was adamant for weeks that the new testing on front-wing flexibility would have a minimal effect on its car performance. Perhaps team principal Andrea Stella and others should have been taken at their word, as the reigning constructors' champion led all three practice sessions, qualifying, and the race.</p><p>If anything, the flexi-wing clampdown in Barcelona - a track that typically reveals the truth of car performance - only confirmed that there's no magic trick that makes the MCL39 a far better car than the rest. It simply has better balance through corners and carries exceptional ability to control tire temperatures. McLaren's dominance is due to a superior technical team that has helped the car evolve by leaps and bounds since 2023.</p><p>The tide has turned in Formula 1, and Barcelona provided further confirmation. The noise from Red Bull has been muted. The drivers' championship will be exclusively fought in papaya. At the moment, Piastri, who claimed victory in Barcelona for his eighth consecutive podium this season, seems to have the slight edge. But Norris has never been too far behind.</p><p><strong>Race Pace for McLaren</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Driver</th>
<th> Stint 1 (Softs)</th>
<th> Stint 2 (Mediums)</th>
<th> Stint 3 (Softs)</th>
<th> Stint 4 (Softs)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Oscar Piastri</td>
<td> 1:20.744</td>
<td> 1:19.899</td>
<td> 1:18.307</td>
<td> 1:16.512</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lando Norris</td>
<td> 1:20.895</td>
<td> 1:19.954</td>
<td> 1:18.222</td>
<td> 1:16.834</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>A bright spot for Fernando Alonso</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788372/cropped_GettyImages-2218106744.jpg?ts=1748806568" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788372/w220xh124_GettyImages-2218106744.jpg?ts=1748806568 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788372/w320xh180_GettyImages-2218106744.jpg?ts=1748806568 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788372/w640xh360_GettyImages-2218106744.jpg?ts=1748806568 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788372/w768xh432_GettyImages-2218106744.jpg?ts=1748806568 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788372/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2218106744.jpg?ts=1748806568 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jayce Illman / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The 43-year-old hasn't had much to smile about this year. He entered his home race as one of only four drivers yet to score a point. Even worse, he was the only non-rookie with no points.</p><p>But that changed in Spain.</p><p>It wasn't all pleasant for Alonso, who ended up in the gravel on Lap 14 and found himself 12th on the safety car restart on Lap 61. Another missed opportunity for points seemed to await. But he battled back like only he can. He turned back the clock on Gabriel Bortoleto with a sublime move in Turn 5 on Lap 64 for 11th and then got through Liam Lawson the following lap to get into the points.</p><p>The two-time champion was then promoted to ninth after Verstappen's penalty, balancing out his poor luck from earlier this season. The finish gave Aston Martin its first points since its Imola upgrade package.</p><h3>Driver of the Day 🙌</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788373/cropped_GettyImages-2217482485.jpg?ts=1748806645" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788373/w220xh124_GettyImages-2217482485.jpg?ts=1748806645 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788373/w320xh180_GettyImages-2217482485.jpg?ts=1748806645 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788373/w640xh360_GettyImages-2217482485.jpg?ts=1748806645 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788373/w768xh432_GettyImages-2217482485.jpg?ts=1748806645 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788373/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2217482485.jpg?ts=1748806645 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Bradley Collyer - PA Images / PA Images / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Nico Hulkenberg</strong>: Lost in all the chaos was Hulkenberg delivering Sauber its best result since the 2022 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix. The German driver stormed to fifth after the safety car restart and even passed Lewis Hamilton, albeit with a minor tire advantage. Hulkenberg is up to 16 points this season, boosting Sauber from last to eighth in the constructors' standings.</p><h3>They said what? 🗣️</h3><p><strong>Piastri on McLaren's dominant weekend</strong>: "We executed it pretty much perfectly. I couldn't ask for more."</p><p><strong>Nico Rosberg on Verstappen's collision with Russell: </strong>"It looked like a very intentional retaliation. Wait for the opponent and then go ramming into him. ... That is something that is extremely unacceptable."</p><p><strong>Russell on Verstappen's collision:</strong> "I've seen those sort of maneuvers before in simulator games and go-karting but never in Formula 1. Ultimately, we came home in P4 and he came home in P10, so I don't really know what was going through his mind. It felt deliberate in the moment. It was a bit surprising."</p><p><strong>Verstappen on whether his move on Russell was intentional:</strong> "Does it matter? I prefer to speak about the race rather than one single moment. ... I think we are way too slow anyway to fight for the title."</p><p><strong>Lewis Hamilton on P6 finish:</strong> "It was a difficult day. There's nothing else to add to it. It was terrible."</p><h3>What's next?</h3><p>Following the European tripleheader, Formula 1 takes the next weekend off before picking back up June 15 (2 p.m. ET) for the Canadian Grand Prix. </p><p>Verstappen has dominated the Montreal circuit in recent years, capturing the last three races. Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher share the record with seven victories at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, though Hamilton hasn't won there since 2019.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Drivers' Standings" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Jq5Aq" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Jq5Aq/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="946" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Constructors' Standings" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-JSx5L" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/JSx5L/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="664" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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>

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Spanish GP takeaways: Red Bull, Verstappen crumble as McLaren dominates

The Philadelphia Eagles are working to finalize a trade that would send pass-rusher Bryce Huff to...

<p>The Philadelphia Eagles are working to finalize a trade that would send pass-rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/110578" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/110578">Bryce Huff</a> to the San Francisco 49ers for a mid-round pick, sources told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1928506089005289697">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.</p><p>Huff has already reworked his contract to help facilitate the trade, though the transaction can't be officially processed until after June 1, Schefter adds.</p><p>The pass-rusher was slated to make $17 million in fully guaranteed money this season, but the Eagles would take on $9.05 million, while the 49ers will be on the hook for the remaining $7.95 million, <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1928506325086142661">Schefter</a> reports.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Philadelphia would create north of $15 million in 2025 cap space with the trade, according to <a href="https://x.com/FieldYates/status/1928507088738857012">ESPN's Field Yates</a>.</p><p>Huff would reunite with defensive coordinator Robert Saleh in San Francisco. Saleh was his head coach in 2023 with the New York Jets when Huff posted a career-high 10 sacks.</p><p>The Eagles signed the 27-year-old to a lucrative three-year, $51.1-million contract in free agency last offseason. However, he fell out of favor in Philadelphia during the season and ended up a healthy scratch for the club's Super Bowl victory.</p><p>Huff finished 2024 with 2.5 sacks and one forced fumble across 12 games (six starts). His production has been inconsistent throughout his career, as he has recorded 20 sacks across five seasons, with half of those coming in 2023.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PA - NOVEMBER 14: Bryce Huff #0 of the Philadelphia Eagles walks off of the field after an NFL football game against the Washington Commanders at Lincoln Financial Field on November 14, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Report: Eagles working to trade Huff to 49ers

Christian Horner expressed he fully intends to remain with Red Bull for the long haul after rumor...

<p>Christian Horner expressed he fully intends to remain with Red Bull for the long haul after rumors emerged that Ferrari has been courting him.</p><p>"Look, I mean, of course, it's always flattering to be associated with other teams," Horner said Friday. "But my commitment, 100%, is with Red Bull. It always has been and certainly will be for the long term. There's a bunch of speculation - always in this business - people coming here, going there, whatever. I think people in the team know exactly what the situation is."</p><p>German publication Bild reported earlier this week that Ferrari reached out to Horner about replacing current team principal Fred Vasseur. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Horner, who was in the press conference alongside Alpine acting boss Flavio Briatore, joked, "My Italian is worse than Flavio's English, so how on earth would that work?"</p><p>Ferrari chairman John Elkann previously contacted Horner about the team principal position at the Scuderia in 2022, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/45374628/red-bull-boss-christian-horner-denies-ferrari-switch-rumours">ESPN's Nate Saunders</a>. Ferrari ultimately went with Vasseur.</p><p>The Italian squad finished 2024 just 14 points back of McLaren for the constructors' championship. However, its follow-up effort has been largely disappointing, as the 2025 car - the SF-25 - has been a challenge for Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton to handle.</p><p>Leclerc is currently fifth in the drivers' championship, while Hamilton sits sixth. Ferrari is fourth in the constructors' standings, already 177 points adrift of leader McLaren.</p>

MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 26: John Elkann, Chairman and CEO of Ferrari and Oracle Red Bull Racing Team Principal Christian Horner talk on the grid prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 26, 2024 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco.

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Horner says he's '100%' committed to Red Bull amid Ferrari rumors

If 2025 ends up being Travis Kelce's final season, it would come as a shock to teammate and Kansa...

<p>If 2025 ends up being <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/23150" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/23150">Travis Kelce</a>'s final season, it would come as a shock to teammate and Kansas City Chiefs quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/89514" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/89514">Patrick Mahomes</a>.</p><p>"If it's the last ride, you would never know," Mahomes told reporters Wednesday, including <a href="https://x.com/henrycmckenna/status/1928154193509994710">Henry McKenna of Fox Sports</a>. "The way he's talking about football, the way he's talking about working and trying to be even better this year than he was last year. He doesn't seem like a guy that, it's his last ride or he's tired of the job."</p><p>Mahomes added that he believes Kelce's body feels better than even last offseason.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I think he's motivated to go out there and have an even better year," the Chiefs quarterback said.</p><p>The 35-year-old tight end was uncertain about his future following the Chiefs' blowout Super Bowl loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. However, he later elected to return, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3216509" href="https://thescore.com/news/3216509">saying</a>, "(I) got a real bad taste in my mouth with how I played in that last game and how I got the guys ready for battle. I can't go out like that."</p><p>Kelce is one of the most feared tight ends in NFL history, registering 1,004 catches for 12,151 yards over his career. However, his production began to slow down in 2024 as he recorded 823 receiving yards and three touchdowns, his lowest output since he became a starter in 2014. </p><p>The veteran tight end's contract expires after the 2025 season. </p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - OCTOBER 27: Tight end Travis Kelce #87 of the Kansas City Chiefs and quarterback Patrick Mahomes #15 celebrate after a touchdown during the second quarter of an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders, at Allegiant Stadium on October 27, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Mahomes: Kelce not acting like 2025 will be 'his last ride'

The Miami Dolphins have had trade discussions with the Pittsburgh Steelers about Pro Bowl tight e...

<p>The Miami Dolphins have had trade discussions with the Pittsburgh Steelers about Pro Bowl tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/74834" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/74834">Jonnu Smith</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1928162961526272176">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.</p><p>Talks began after Smith expressed a desire to rework his contract, which is slated to pay him $4.8 million this season, Schefter adds. The tight end would reportedly prefer to stay in Miami.</p><p>The 29-year-old set the Dolphins franchise record for receptions (88), receiving yards (884), and touchdowns (eight) for a tight end.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>If he's traded to Pittsburgh, he'd reunite with Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, who was the tight ends coach when the player first broke into the league in 2017 with the Tennessee Titans. He was also offensive coordinator with the Titans from 2019-20. The two also teamed up in 2023 with the Atlanta Falcons while Arthur Smith was head coach.</p><p>The Steelers' tight end depth chart is led by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161850" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161850">Pat Freiermuth</a>, who caught 65 passes for 653 yards and seven scores last season. Freiermuth is in the midst of a four-year, $48.4-million deal.</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - DECEMBER 29: Jonnu Smith #9 of the Miami Dolphins looks on prior to a game against the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field on December 29, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Report: Dolphins, Steelers discuss trade for Jonnu Smith

Lando Norris is adamant the drivers' title won't be restricted to just him and Oscar Piastri, rei...

<p>Lando Norris is adamant the drivers' title won't be restricted to just him and Oscar Piastri, reiterating Thursday that it's absurd to count out reigning champion Max Verstappen.</p><p>"I think mathematically, there's still probably the whole grid that can win the championship at the minute," Norris said in a press conference. "So, if you think it's just out of me and Oscar, then I think you're a bit silly. I think there's plenty of opportunities. Max can still win. I think Ferrari ... I expect them to get better through the season."</p><p>The British driver continued: "We're racing Max every weekend. He's been on the podium several times. He's won races. He beat us in Imola fair and square because he was quicker. So I don't know what possibly makes you think that it's only between me and Oscar."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The McLaren drivers rank first and second in the drivers' standing with Piastri leading Norris by three points. The duo have controlled a majority of the season with the Australian collecting four wins and three poles while Norris has two wins and two poles. Verstappen, the four-time defending F1 champ, is 25 points adrift from Piastri while carrying two race wins and three poles of his own this year.</p><p>Piastri agreed with his teammate's sentiment that the Dutch pilot is "definitely" still in the mix for the title.</p><p>"I don't think he can be counted out," the championship leader said, according to <a href="https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/13376341/lando-norris-and-mclaren-team-mate-oscar-piastri-insist-rival-max-verstappen-remains-in-2025-f1-title-race">Sky Sports</a>. "The gap is not very large at the moment, and they've genuinely been competitive at a decent number of circuits now."</p><p>However, Verstappen downplayed his title odds, saying that for him, "it doesn't feel like a fight."</p><p>The upcoming Spanish Grand Prix, which Verstappen has won three consecutive times from 2022-24, has been dominated by buzz that the FIA's clamp down on front wing flexibility could affect the current pecking order.</p>

McLaren's British driver Lando Norris attends a press confeence on the eve of the Spanish Formula One Grand Prix at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo, on the outskirts of Barcelona, on May 29, 2025.

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Norris: 'Silly' to count Verstappen out of title fight

Alpine has yet to finish higher than fourth in the constructors' standings since 2021, but curren...

<p>Alpine has yet to finish higher than fourth in the constructors' standings since 2021, but current team boss Flavio Briatore believes that'll change soon.</p><p>"In 2026, we can win races, I guarantee it, and in 2027, we want to be title contenders," he told Le Monde, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/45373320/alpine-boss-flavio-briatore-promises-2026-wins-targets-2027-f1-title">ESPN's Nate Saunders</a>.</p><p>Briatore took over after Oliver Oakes resigned earlier this month. He sees potential to nail the upcoming regulation changes in 2026. Alpine will also stop using Renault engines after this season and switch to using Mercedes power units, which is rumored to bring a strong competitive advantage.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 75-year-old added that there will be no excuses not to be competitive.</p><p>"The easiest way to win is to sign Max Verstappen, but we can't. So we have to work with what we've got," Briatore explained. </p><p>He added: "Choosing to switch to Mercedes power was a very difficult decision, but in this sport, to win, you need to have the same tools as the others. For a million reasons rooted in the past, we were at a disadvantage in that area."</p><p>The French team has won one race and collected six podiums since rebranding from Renault to Alpine in 2021. Alpine is currently ninth in the 2025 constructors' standings with just seven points.</p>

MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 24: Alpine F1Team executive adviser and de facto team principal Flavio Briatore looks on in the paddock during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 24, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco.

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Alpine's Briatore guarantees wins in 2026, possible title bid in 2027

The FIA is enforcing tougher testing on front wings at the Spanish Grand Prix, and many in the pa...

<p>The FIA is enforcing tougher testing on front wings at the Spanish Grand Prix, and many in the paddock believe it could alter the competitive balance.</p><p>"I think Barcelona is on the calendar of everybody in the paddock with the new regulation for the front wing," Ferrari team boss Fred Vasseur said in Monaco, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/45357640/ferrari-chief-front-wing-testing-gamechanger-f1-teams">ESPN's Laurence Edmondson</a> "At least we are working on it for ages now and this can be a game-changer for everybody because we don't know the impact on every single team."</p><p>The FIA announced a technical directive to clamp down on front wing flexing in January, stating it would go into effect for the ninth race of the season in Barcelona. Front wings will only be allowed to flex 10mm instead of 15mm under load from that point onward.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Flexible bodywork has been a hot topic in Formula 1 since last season. The FIA decided to clamp down on rear wing flexibility to start 2025 before introducing even more stringent tests ahead of the second race of the campaign in China.</p><p>Red Bull team principal Christian Horner called the new front wing directive coming in Spain a "significant change," though he was unsure how much it'll affect teams.</p><p>Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff predicted Ferrari could capitalize the most, believing the Scuderia was already running a front wing that was "conservative" in flexibility.</p><p>McLaren, who has been the focus point of the flexible bodywork since 2024, has repeatedly insisted it won't be affected. Team boss Andrea Stella said earlier this month in Imola that front wing deflection has "nothing to do with the reason why McLaren is very competitive," according to <a href="https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/stella-f1-rivals-being-distracted-by-tech-sagas-is-good-news-for-mclaren/10723448/">Filip Cleeren of Autosport</a>.</p><p>McLaren has a 172-point lead in the constructors' championship, while Oscar Piastri holds a three-point lead over teammate Lando Norris in the drivers' standings. Reigning champion Max Verstappen is 25 points off Piastri.</p>

Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur at the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari, commonly known as Imola. Picture date: Thursday May 15, 2025.

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Vasseur: New front wing test in Spain could be 'game-changer'

The Jacksonville Jaguars aren't planning on having rookie Travis Hunter practice with the offense...

<p>The Jacksonville Jaguars aren't planning on having rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209912" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209912">Travis Hunter</a> practice with the offense and defense on the same day during organized team activities.</p><p>"We won't put him in that situation to have him do that, although I'm sure he'd probably want to," Jacksonville head coach Liam Coen said, according to <a href="https://www.jaguars.com/news/k000300-building-day-by-day-jaguars-head-coach-liam-coen-shares-his-perspective-of-ota-practice-4">team reporter John Oehser</a>.</p><p>The Jaguars sent a package of draft picks that included their 2026 first-round choice to Cleveland to move up to No. 2 and get Hunter. The former Colorado star played both sides of the ball in college and is expected to do the same in the NFL.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Though he won't practice with both units on the same day, Hunter will be in offensive and defensive meetings.</p><p>"He still meets defensively every day that he's on offense, so he's getting the mental part of it and is able to catch up on some of the communication, some of the corrections off the film from the defensive side of the ball," Coen added. "He's getting a lot of the mental and it would probably be unfair to put him out on the grass and do both and ask him to go do that and see success."</p><p>Coen noted the Jags are still in the "initial stages" of ramping up Hunter and eventually he will be practicing with both sides.</p><p>"In season, he's going to probably have to, just because it's the way practices are kind of organized," the head coach explained. "He's definitely going to have to do that. I envision maybe a third-down day in season where he's playing receiver, but he's also going to have to go get some reps on defense and be able to do some of those things. It will come up, absolutely."</p><p>Hunter, who won the Heisman Trophy in 2024, caught 96 passes for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns in his final year at Colorado. He also recorded four interceptions.</p>

JACKSONVILLE, FL - MAY 19: Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Travis Hunter (12) runs during the Jacksonville Jaguars OTA on May 19, 2025 at Miller Electric Center in Jacksonville, Fl.

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Jags' Coen: Hunter won't practice with both units on same day in OTAs

Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott announced Tuesday that pass-rusher Joey Bosa pulled his c...

<p>Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott announced Tuesday that pass-rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/71822" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/71822">Joey Bosa</a> pulled his calf and will likely be sidelined until training camp, according to <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1927381574539952246">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>.</p><p>The Bills inked Bosa to a one-year, $12.6-million contract that contained $12 million in guaranteed money this offseason. </p><p>The Los Angeles Chargers released the 29-year-old this year after nine seasons.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bosa has struggled with injuries over his career. He has played a combined 28 games over the last three years and has only played a full season in two of his nine campaigns.</p><p>The veteran recorded five sacks in 2024. He hasn't exceeded 10 sacks since 2021.</p><p>Running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174030" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174030">James Cook</a> did not attend voluntary organized team activities, McDermott said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45344880/james-cook-not-bills-otas-joey-bosa-likely-summer">ESPN's Alaina Getzenberg</a>. Cook wants a new contract and is entering the final season of his rookie deal.</p><p>McDermott added that he's staying in touch with Cook and that the running back "will be here when he's ready to be here."</p>

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - JANUARY 26: Joey Bosa #97 of the Los Angeles Chargers and AFC looks on during practice prior to the Pro Bowl Games at Camping World Stadium on February 1, 2025 in Orlando, Florida.

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Bills' Bosa likely out until training camp with calf injury

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins is on the Pittsburgh Steelers' radar as a contingency pl...

<p>Atlanta Falcons quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14947" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/14947">Kirk Cousins</a> is on the Pittsburgh Steelers' radar as a contingency plan if <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/747" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/747">Aaron Rodgers</a> doesn't join the AFC franchise, <a href="https://x.com/JFowlerESPN/status/1927085359453573255">ESPN's Jeremy Fowler</a> reports.</p><p>The Steelers have been linked to Rodgers since the start of free agency, but the quarterback has yet to decide on his future. Pittsburgh hosted the 41-year-old on a free-agent visit earlier this offseason, and team owner Art Rooney II said during the NFL draft that he expected an answer from Rodgers soon.</p><p>Cousins has frequently come up in trade buzz since the Falcons suggested they'd make <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199749" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199749">Michael Penix Jr.</a> their starter. However, Atlanta would need another team to offset a portion of Cousins' $37.5 million in guaranteed money over the next two seasons, though the feeling around the league is that the Falcons haven't been willing to budge, Fowler adds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Cousins inked a four-year, $180-million contract with the Falcons last offseason, which also contains a no-trade clause. He was benched for the final three games of the 2024 campaign after posting a 7-7 record with 18 touchdowns and a league-high 16 interceptions.</p><p>The Steelers' quarterback room currently consists of <a href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/83531">Mason Rudolph</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174124" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174124">Skylar Thompson</a>, and rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210204" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210204">Will Howard</a>.</p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 08: Kirk Cousins #18 of the Atlanta Falcons looks to pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the third quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 08, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Report: Cousins could be Steelers' backup plan if Rodgers doesn't sign

George Russell was unable to grab any points in Sunday's Monaco Grand Prix after both Williams dr...

<p>George Russell was unable to grab any points in Sunday's Monaco Grand Prix after both Williams drivers held him up, but he was at least able to score a free dinner courtesy of Alex Albon.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DKF1sskt0Ys/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DKF1sskt0Ys/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
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<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>Williams exploited the circuit's difficulty in producing overtakes and Formula 1's new regulations requiring two pit stops at Monaco, driving deliberately slowly to hold up several drivers and create a gap allowing their driver to pit without losing positions. Russell was on the receiving end of this controversial tactic and finished behind both Carlos Sainz and Albon as a result.</p><p>Sainz was the first to hold up Russell and those behind him, then swapped positions with Albon after the Thai driver completed his two stops. Russell grew increasingly frustrated and eventually cut a chicane to pass Albon. He then received a drive-through penalty despite arguing over the radio that the Williams pilot was driving erratically. The Mercedes driver finished 11th while Albon and Sainz placed ninth and 10th, respectively.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Russell told reporters after the race that Albon "would definitely get the bill" at dinner Sunday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/45326107/alex-albon-buys-george-russell-dinner-blocking-tactic-monaco-grand-prix">ESPN's Laurence Edmondson</a>.</p><p>Despite his points finish, Albon wasn't proud of the team's tactics. "That was a very ugly race. I apologize to everyone watching that one," he said on the onboard radio after the checkered flag.</p><p>Mercedes boss Toto Wolff also <a href="https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/wolff-reveals-williams-boss-vowles-sent-him-an-apology-text-during-monaco-gp.6Ql1QI6ZNBGUhuVc7FYq89">revealed</a> that Williams team principal James Vowles texted him during the race to apologize for his team's defense. Vowles told Wolff, "I'm sorry. We had no choice." Wolff replied, "We know."</p>

MONACO, MONACO - MAY 21: George Russell of Great Britain and Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team, shares a joke with Alexander Albon of Thailand and Williams, while attending the private screening of F1® The Movie prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Grimaldi Forum on May 21, 2025 in Monaco, Monaco.

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Albon buys Russell dinner after frustrating Monaco tactics

<p><em>We'll offer our takeaways following each race weekend this year. Here are our thoughts after the Monaco Grand Prix:</em></p><h3>Moments that decided the race 👀</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787259/cropped_GettyImages-2216846204.jpg?ts=1748218623" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787259/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216846204.jpg?ts=1748218623 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787259/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216846204.jpg?ts=1748218623 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787259/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216846204.jpg?ts=1748218623 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787259/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216846204.jpg?ts=1748218623 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787259/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216846204.jpg?ts=1748218623 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Bryn Lennon - Formula 1 / Formula 1 / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Lando Norris has weekend he desperately needed</strong></p><p>Monaco is a circuit that feasts on drivers who lack confidence and comfortability, and Lando Norris seemed like a candidate to be the track's next victim. Struggling in qualifying when his car is at the absolute limit, the championship contender drove his MCL39 out of the jaws of the Monaco streets and onto pole position, which he then converted into a much-needed victory.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Norris, who hadn't been on pole since the opening race of the season and faced scrutiny over whether championship leader Oscar Piastri had passed him as McLaren's No. 1 driver, proved he won't roll over. Not only did he out qualify Piastri, he became the first man in Formula 1 history to finish a qualifying lap in Monaco in under 70 seconds. The pole was McLaren's first in Monaco since 2007, and Norris followed it up by delivering the team's first win in the principality since 2008.</p><p>The 25-year-old has become a whipping boy for pundits and fans this season due to the perception that he's under performed in the grid's fastest car. He punched back in Monaco, leaving little doubt that he still possesses the speed and precision needed to be the team's leader and its strongest option in the drivers' championship.</p><p>Norris cut 13 points into Piastri's lead over the last two races, putting him just three points behind with two-thirds of the season remaining.</p><p><strong>Mandatory 2-stopper does little to spice up the race</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787260/cropped_GettyImages-2216362969.jpg?ts=1748218662" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787260/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216362969.jpg?ts=1748218662 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787260/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216362969.jpg?ts=1748218662 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787260/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216362969.jpg?ts=1748218662 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787260/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216362969.jpg?ts=1748218662 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787260/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216362969.jpg?ts=1748218662 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>There are few things that bring fans of a sport more satisfaction than feeling like their voices are being heard. For the Monaco GP, Formula 1 decided to cater to its supporters after receiving heavy backlash on last year's processional race. The end result was making Monaco a mandatory two-stop race in hopes of creating a more compelling product.</p><p>When the checkered flag waved Sunday, though, the Monaco GP was both a bad product and race.</p><p>This year's race deserves credit for being an improvement over 2024, but that wasn't the bar Formula 1 was aiming for. There were still too many issues with the mandatory two-stop rule that heavily influenced the results, all while not improving any of the often-heard criticisms associated with the circuit.</p><p>Some drivers, like those from Williams and Racing Bulls, still ran massively off the pace to create a pit stop window for their teammates. With Monaco's tight layout, opposing drivers behind were left powerless. Mercedes driver George Russell even opted to cut the track to pass the slow-moving Alex Albon and was handed a drive-through penalty in return. Liam Lawson backed up the pack for teammate Isack Hadjar, creating a gap for the front four drivers to pit into. The move quickly ended any anticipation of Monaco seeing a surprise result from the likes of drivers who took extreme gambles, such as pitting on the first lap.</p><p>Reigning champion Max Verstappen left his last pit stop until the end, hoping for a late red flag that would allow him to satisfy the two-stop rule and win. While sport - even at the highest levels - often includes a stroke of luck, it felt rather unsporting for teams to attempt to fall upwards into glory.</p><p>"Overtaking has never been good in Monaco, ever," Norris said post-race, according to Andrew Benson of <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/articles/cq54jwenqneo">BBC</a>. "So, I don't know why people have such a high expectation. But I also think Formula 1 should not turn into just a show to entertain people. It's a sport. It's who can race the best, who can qualify the best.</p><p>"Everything was about yesterday. That's the way it's been since ... 50, 60 years ago. So, the last thing I want is manufactured racing."</p><p>Like every year in Monaco, the drivers put on a show in qualifying. But this time, Formula 1, itself, tried to create a show. There's a big difference between the two, and it's one that begs the question: Is a track worth keeping if it requires this amount of artificial wrinkles and gimmicks? There's no solution to cure Sunday's problems in Monaco - at least not without a drastic reduction in car size - and how far is the series willing to go?</p><h3>Driver of the Day 🙌</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787261/cropped_GettyImages-2217023861.jpg?ts=1748218706" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787261/w220xh124_GettyImages-2217023861.jpg?ts=1748218706 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787261/w320xh180_GettyImages-2217023861.jpg?ts=1748218706 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787261/w640xh360_GettyImages-2217023861.jpg?ts=1748218706 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787261/w768xh432_GettyImages-2217023861.jpg?ts=1748218706 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787261/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2217023861.jpg?ts=1748218706 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Kym Illman / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Charles Leclerc</strong>: Even when he's not winning or on pole, Leclerc has elevated himself to become Monaco's modern-day final boss. No matter how good or poor the Ferrari he steps into is, the Monegasque driver simply comes alive at his home circuit. While Ferrari looked better than expected, absolutely no one realistically thought Leclerc would be in contention for pole and the win. In Monaco, there's one phenomenon the grid has grown to fear and Ferrari has learned to count on: the Leclerc effect.</p><h3>They said what? 🗣️</h3><p><strong>Norris on 1st career win at Monaco:</strong> "This is what I did dream of as a kid, so I achieved one of my dreams."</p><p><strong>Zak Brown on 3-point gap between Piastri and Norris:</strong> "I reminded Oscar, 'I know you're bummed to finish third (in Monaco), but you're still leading the championship.' It's gonna get fun the second half of the year, but they're up for it, and I'm excited to see them race."</p><p><strong>Leclerc on failing to repeat at Monaco:</strong> "At the end of the day, we lost the race yesterday. We should have done a better job. ... On my side, I realized a childhood dream last year."</p><p><strong>Verstappen on if changes at Monaco helped:</strong> "You can't race here anyway, so it doesn't matter what you do; one stop, 10 stops. Even at the end, I was in the lead, but my tires were completely gone and you still can't pass. ... Honestly, we were almost doing Mario Kart. We have to install bits on the car and maybe you can throw bananas around."</p><p><strong>Albon on backing up pack to secure points finish: </strong>"Not how we want to go racing. I know we put on a bad show for everyone and made a few angry drivers behind us. It's just taking advantage of the track and the size of the car. ... Apologies to everyone who watched that because it wasn't very pretty."</p><h3>What's next?</h3><p>Formula 1 travels to Barcelona to cap off its tripleheader at the Spanish GP on June 1 at 9 a.m. ET. </p><p>The race will be the final one at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya before the event shifts to Madrid from 2026-35.</p><p>The Spanish GP has been dominated by two drivers over the last decade. Verstappen has won four times in nine years, including the last three, while Lewis Hamilton claimed victory five straight times from 2017-21.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Drivers' Standings" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-1cieI" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/1cieI/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="946" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Constructors' Standings" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-D3ER2" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/D3ER2/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="664" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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}}}))}();
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<p>Dallas Cowboys running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161816" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161816">Javonte Williams</a> insists any effects of 2022 knee injuries are in the past.</p><p>"I feel completely like myself …" Williams said, according to <a href="https://www.dallascowboys.com/news/javonte-williams-feels-like-himself-again-excited-by-cowboys-playmakers">team reporter Tommy Yarrish</a>. "I probably can get more flexible and things like that, but as far as healing up, that I feel like is done."</p><p>Williams tore his ACL, LCL and posterior lateral corner in 2022 and has struggled to look like the same running back he was prior to the knee injuries. Williams averaged 4.4 yards per carry as a rookie in 2021 and 4.3 yards per rush during his four-game campaign in 2022. Since then, however, he has failed to average more than 3.7 yards per carry in a season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 25-year-old running back stressed the time it takes getting back to 100% varies by player.</p><p>"It just depends on who you are, it depends on your body … mine might take this amount of time, but somebody else might be different," Williams explained. "It's a lot that goes into it that people don't really understand. Just to be back out here and have another opportunity and chance to show myself, I can't ask for nothing else."</p><p>Williams, who spent the first four seasons of his career with the Denver Broncos, signed a one-year deal worth $3 million with the Cowboys this offseason. He's part of a backfield that includes veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/109486" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/109486">Miles Sanders</a> and rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210186" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210186">Jaydon Blue</a>, among others.</p>

DENVER, CO - DECEMBER 02: Javonte Williams #33 of the Denver Broncos runs out of the tunnel prior to an NFL football game against the Cleveland Browns at Empower Field at Mile High on December 2, 2024 in Denver, Colorado.

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<p>Pittsburgh Steelers pass-rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/104736" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/104736">Alex Highsmith</a> is adamant that waiting on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/747" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/747">Aaron Rodgers</a> isn't disrupting the team's focus at all. </p><p>"I just feel like in the locker room, we're in there working, and I think that's just really what it's about at this point," Highsmith told <a href="https://x.com/MikeGarafolo/status/1925708105641279553">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo</a>. "I know that if he does sign, we're definitely going to be really excited to have him. We know who he is. He's a Hall of Fame quarterback. He's one of the best to ever do it.</p><p>"I wouldn't say it's a distraction at all. We all know what type of quarterback he is and what he brings to the table."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The veteran free-agent quarterback has been linked to the Steelers for the entire offseason. Rodgers visited the team in March, though no deal followed. He said in April that there isn't a deadline for him to make a decision on his future, while owner Art Rooney II said during the NFL draft that he expected an answer from Rodgers soon. However, there has been no update since.</p><p>The Steelers currently have <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/83531" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/83531">Mason Rudolph</a> penciled in as their starting quarterback. Drafted by the franchise in the third round of the 2018 draft, Rudolph returned to Pittsburgh this offseason after spending the 2024 campaign with the Tennessee Titans. He's most known for leading the Steelers to the postseason in 2023 after ending the campaign on a 3-0 run.</p><p>Highsmith emphasized that the team will support its signal-caller, whether it's Rudolph or Rodgers under center.</p><p>"No matter who's back there for us, whether it's him or if Aaron Rodgers is gonna come, I'm just excited," he said. "Whoever's back there, we're gonna have their backs and we're gonna rally behind them. Just excited for whoever it's gonna be."</p><p>The Steelers went 10-7 last season with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161671" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161671">Justin Fields</a> starting six games and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/12258" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/12258">Russell Wilson</a> starting 11. Both quarterbacks left Pittsburgh this offseason.</p>

PITTSBURGH, PA - OCTOBER 20: Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith (56) hits New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) as he throws a pass during the regular season NFL football game between the New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers on October 20, 2024 at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA.

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<p>Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc isn't optimistic he'll be able to conquer the Monaco track - his home race - like he did a year ago.</p><p>"I mean, if you want an honest answer, then low, because unfortunately our car hasn't been particularly strong in low-speed corners," Leclerc <a href="https://www.fia.com/news/f1-2025-monaco-grand-prix-thursday-press-conference-transcript">said</a> Thursday when asked about his chances of winning. "And there's only low-speed corners here in Monaco. So on paper, it doesn't look like the most promising track for us."</p><p>Leclerc was infamously unlucky in his birthplace before triumphing in last year's grand prix, becoming the first Monegasque driver to win their home race since 1931. He didn't start from pole in 2021 because of a car issue following a crash in qualifying, and he finished off the podium in 2022 after beginning on pole due to a strategy error from Ferrari. He also placed sixth in 2023.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ferrari has also failed to build momentum on its promising 2024 campaign with its 2025 car - the SF-25 - struggling to keep up with the other front-runners. The Scuderia have only one podium this season, Leclerc's third-place finish in Saudi Arabia.</p><p>Still, the eight-time race winner hasn't completely given up on a surprise in Monaco.</p><p>"I think there's been years where we definitely did not expect to be on pole, and when you think that you have zero hopes, you just go for it - maybe a little bit more than people that are trying to manage expectations in Q3," Leclerc said. "And you manage to do something special, like I think we did in 2021, where we were nowhere all season, but we managed to put it on pole here.</p><p>"So, I still have hopes that we can reproduce what happened last year. Obviously, it's still very fresh in my mind to come back in this paddock. The last time I was there, we won, and it was a very special moment for me."</p><p>All drivers in Sunday's grand prix will also need to make two pit stops, a requirement the FIA implemented in hopes of improving on-track action and implementing more strategy at the iconic Monaco circuit.</p>

Charles Leclerc participates in the Formula 1 TAG Heuer Gran Premio di Monaco 2025 in Monaco, Monaco, on May 22, 2025.

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