Latest NFL News & Videos from FOX Sports

Adam Vinatieri Set For Lucas Oil Stadium Return in Colts’ Ring of Honor Induction

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 22:42:42 -0400

Adam Vinatieri, the NFL's career scoring leader who was also widely considered the best clutch kicker in league history, will have one more celebration on the Indianapolis Colts' home turf this season when he's inducted into the team's Ring of Honor. Team officials announced Wednesday that Vinatieri would be honored during the Colts' game against the Tennessee Titans on Oct. 18, a little more than two months after his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. Vinatieri will become the Colts' 21st Ring of Honor honoree five years after he officially retired. He'll join a group that includes former teammates and fellow Hall of Famers Peyton Manning, Marvin Harrison and Dwight Freeney, as well as Robert Mathis, Jeff Saturday and Reggie Wayne. Tony Dungy, the Hall of Fame coach for whom Vinatieri played; Hall of Fame executive Bill Polian, who signed Vinatieri as a free agent before the 2006 season; and late team owner Jim Irsay are also in the Colts' ring. The four-time Super Bowl champion shocked many when he left New England as the franchise's career scoring leader after 10 seasons and wound up with longtime rival Indianapolis. But Vinatieri was far from finished and went on to break the Colts' career scoring mark, too. Though Vinatieri's stats tell one tale: He finished his career with 2,673 points and as the league's all-time leader in field goals made (599), field goal attempts (715), consecutive field goals made (44) and 100-plus point seasons (21). But it was his penchant for making kicks in the toughest conditions and most crucial moments that stuck with him. His 45-yard field goal into swirling winds amid snowy conditions for New England in a January 2002 AFC divisional round game tied it and sent the Patriots into overtime against the then-Oakland Raiders. He then kicked a 23-yarder to start New England's trek to coach Bill Belichick's first Super Bowl. Two weeks later, Vinatieri did it again by making a 43-yarder in the waning seconds to give the Patriots their first Super Bowl title with a 20-17 victory over the then-St. Louis Rams in much more ideal conditions. Vinatieri 41-yarder with 4 seconds left broke a 29-29 tie with the Carolina Panthers for New England's second Super Bowl title two years later. Vinatieri continued to excel in Indy, where he first played inside a dome stadium and later a retractable roof stadium. In January 2007, the South Dakota State alum made five field goals in a divisional round game that featured no touchdowns at Baltimore. The 15-6 victory set up an AFC title game rematch between the Colts and Patriots, this time in Indy with Vinatieri on the opposite sideline from Tom Brady and his ex-teammates. Vinatieri's playoff run continued as the Colts reached their first Super Bowl since the franchise moved to Indianapolis. Vinatieri made three more field goals and captured yet another ring while finishing that postseason with 49 points and 14 field goals, both one-season playoff records, while becoming the first player to make three or more field goals in four consecutive postseason games. Vinatieri ranks second all-time in NFL victories (242), regular-season wins (221) and postseason wins (21) and is one of five players who appeared in a game at age 46. He's the only player in league history to make 250 or more field goals and scored 1,000 points for two teams. The three-time All-Pro also was a three-time Pro Bowl selection and a member of the NFL's 100th Anniversary All-Time Team. Reporting by the Associated Press.

Raiders QB Fernando Mendoza Reveals Key Traits Between Klint Kubiak, Curt Cignetti

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 13:13:19 -0400

Fernando Mendoza went from winning the College Football Playoff National Championship with the Indiana Hoosiers to joining a team that was tied for the worst record in the NFL last season in the Las Vegas Raiders. But the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft sees a similarity between the two teams: the traits of new Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak and Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti. "For example, [in practice], you make a big completion, and you're looking forward to seeing it on film, and then both of those guys would be like, 'Come on, really? You took an extra hitch,' or ‘Come on, instead of five yards you were at four and a half,’" Mendoza said on the latest episode of "The Rush With Maxx Crosby," which is hosted by the quarterback's teammate, Raiders star pass rusher Maxx Crosby. "And you're like, 'What? I literally took the perfect footwork, perfect read, perfect throw, awesome, explosive play.' And you're like, 'Bro, you got to give me a break, what's this guy talking about?' "Then you see, especially with Cignetti, having spent a whole season with him, like when he's riding me on all these things in fall camp, I'm like, 'You've got to be kidding me,' and then the season you see it show up. And it's like, 'OK, that pass was completed by this much because I was at the right depth or because I didn't take the extra hitch.' "You see the same similarities with Coach Kubiak pushing and really making sure you're doing everything, rather than giving you a pat on the back, finding something to improve, because I have a lot to improve on." The 39-year-old Kubiak is embarking on his first head-coaching stint, most recently serving as the offensive coordinator for the reigning Super Bowl-champion Seattle Seahawks (2025) and New Orleans Saints (2024). Kubiak was previously the passing game coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers (2023) and Denver Broncos (2022), among other positions. Meanwhile, Cignetti is doing one of the best coaching jobs, if not the best job, in college football history at Indiana. Following a three-year stretch during which the Hoosiers won just nine games (a combined 9-27 record from 2021-23), they went 11-2 in their first season under Cignetti, marking the first double-digit-winning season in program history and making their first appearance in the College Football Playoff. Then, Indiana put together a 16-0 campaign in 2025, capped off by winning the first national championship in program history. As for who was under center for Indiana last season, Mendoza transferred to play for the Hoosiers after three seasons with the California Golden Bears (2022-24). Starting all 16 games for Indiana, Mendoza totaled 3,535 passing yards, 41 passing touchdowns, six interceptions and a 182.9 passer rating, while completing 72.0% of his passes. He also rushed for 276 yards and seven touchdowns. Moreover, Mendoza threw for a combined eight touchdowns, completed 86.1% of his passes and posted a 245.5 passer rating over Indiana's quarterfinal and semifinal round wins over the Alabama Crimson Tide (38-3) and Oregon Ducks (56-22). Mendoza earned 2025 Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year honors and won the 2025 Heisman Trophy Award. "One thing that I think Coach Cignetti and Coach Kubiak both preach, in a way, is that everyone's equal," Mendoza said. "And how I see that as a quarterback is killing the ego. Making sure that no matter what success I had at Indiana or what future success or whatever expectation, there's no ego there. The only motivation is getting better." As for Mendoza's new teammates, Las Vegas signed center and three-time Pro Bowler Tyler Linderbaum (three-year, $81 million deal) and former Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jalen Nailor (three-year, $35 million deal) in free agency, among others. It also has star tight end Brock Bowers — who earned All-Pro honors in his 2024 rookie campaign — running back Ashton Jeanty (the No. 6 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft) and wide receiver Tre Tucker, who totaled a career-high in receptions (57), receiving yards (696) and receiving touchdowns (five) in 2025. Of course, Mendoza could potentially begin his rookie season as the Raiders' backup quarterback, as they signed veteran Kirk Cousins to a two-year deal in April.

Where In The World Cup Is Jameis Winston?

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:22:54 -0400

Jameis Winston traded the gridiron for the world’s game this offseason, taking on maybe the best summer job of all time. The FOX Sports World Cup correspondent (and former Heisman Trophy winner and current Giants quarterback) has marched with the Oranje Army. He's honored tradition with Japanese fans. He's marched a goat in a GOAT jersey through Kansas City. He's been knighted. He's even worn Lederhosen. He's diving headfirst into other cultures and their passionate love for soccer – and inviting everyone to be a part of it. And he's just getting started. Here’s a look at some of the best moments from Winston’s World Cup journey: Winston's World Cup journey continued over the Fourth of July weekend with another memorable stop. He spent the holiday celebrating the United States' 250th anniversary alongside fans. Not only did Winston celebrate with fans, but he also surprised his sons by bringing them along to France's World Cup match. He embraced the holiday spirit by sharing cake with supporters and even getting up close with a fan dressed as the Declaration of Independence. "Thanks for coming out to my birthday party, Jameis," he said. "You’re a true patriot, Jameis and thanks for your help." After speaking with Winston, it turns out that Libby, the Liberty Bell, is an "Eagles" fan. It doesn’t get much more American than that, but the irony is even better considering Winston is currently the backup quarterback for the New York Giants. Throughout the match, Winston embraced the experience by connecting with fans across the stadium. He was also seen enjoying ice cream with his family and dancing among supporters, once again showing why his personality makes him such a unique fit for soccer coverage. What's a birthday celebration without cake and a traditional birthday song? The round of 16 kicked off on Saturday, and Winston led the celebrations of America's 250th birthday in Philadelphia ahead of France vs. Paraguay. Ahead of Lionel Messi's return to Miami for Argentina vs. Cape Verde, Winston joined Cape Verde fans in a shark costume ahead of the round of 32 showdown at Miami Stadium. Winston took his Blue Shark fandom to another level and intimidated Argentina fans. The Blue Sharks are seeking their first-ever knockout stage win in their World Cup debut. Winston jumped right into the Norwegian traditions with the Viking row ahead of their 2-1 win over the Ivory Coast. After Winston spotted Haaland for the first time, he wasted no time channeling his inner Viking. Norway moves on to play France in the round of 16 on July 5 at New York/New Jersey Stadium. Norway's fans have brought to our shores one of the World Cup's best celebrations – the Viking Row. You've seen it everywhere by now – from escalators in Boston to the bleachers at a Mets game. Of course, Jameis had to get in on the action, complete with a horned helmet and a faux fur wrap. Let the rowing begin and remember – ROO! You read that correctly. Winston, who claimed he was not a "pooper scooper," picked up the waste left behind by his friend, Bunda the Cockapoo, on the sidewalk with a bag. Winston's World Cup journey has seen a goat dressed as Messi and trips on the Netherlands' Oranje Bus, but what about being one with Colombia's music and dance culture? Ahead of Colombia's group stage finale against Portugal at Miami Stadium, Winston took part in Colombia's pregame music and dancing, and even dressed the part in a jersey and wig. As the group stages come to a close, Winston's World Cup journey continues with the round of 32 matchups, which begin on Sunday. Anchoring the back line with captain Tim Ream, USA defender Chris Richards is officially on the pitch for his first World Cup after an injury in 2022. Winston had the chance to catch up with Richard's parents about his journey and resilience at USA's group stage match against Türkiye. "He followed his dream. It wasn't our dream, and he went against that grain," Richards' father, Ken Richards, said. "It was hard missing out on the last World Cup due to an injury. This, just being here, just brought everything together. It was a full circle moment," Richards' mother, Carrie Richards, said. And to close out their chat together, Winston brought out the lucky rubber chicken to do a ‘funky chicken’ dance in the stands. During his World Cup journey, Winston teamed up with WWE Superstar Sheamus to celebrate with soccer fans at a local pub. The duo was spotted engaging with the crowd and taking part in the lively pre-match festivities. Drawing on his Irish heritage, Sheamus shared a piece of his culture by introducing Winston to a pint of Guinness. The video captures the two sharing a moment inside a pub, celebrating with local soccer fans ahead of the United States' group-stage match against Türkiye. Not only is Winston making a massive impact on fans at the World Cup, but he’s also carving out a brand-new reputation. Thanks to his larger-than-life personality, he is quickly becoming the ultimate "man of the people." He’s been connecting with fans at every turn, even handing over his No. 4 United States jersey to a local fan in the crowd. "He just gifted me his jersey," one fan said. "This is unbelievable. My grandma will hate me for that. I’m speechless. This is amazing. Whoever said the U.S. can’t do soccer? Go USA. Go America." If there’s one thing Winston has accomplished throughout this World Cup, it’s proving that he truly is a man of the people. Winston's World Cup journey continues as he sets out to assemble the loudest possible "USA" chants. The momentum started earlier in the week at a Seattle Mariners game, where he successfully rallied an entire section into full-voice chants. He took that to the pre-game show, along with a countdown to the USA vs. Australia matchup. His goal was simple and that was to bring both fanbases together while highlighting what makes American and Australian soccer cultures special. "My mission today is to allow Aussies to hear the USA chants from sea to shining sea," Winston said. The United States defeated Australia 2-0 on Friday night, and Winston matched the crowd's energy throughout. As tensions rose following several hard challenges on the pitch, he kept the atmosphere lively by engaging in plenty of friendly trash talk with opposing fans. "The Australian team…they just don’t know what to do with us," Winston said. "They’re turning to violence. That’s what little cousins do when they can’t fight." Despite the result not going Australia's way, Winston embraced the opportunity to connect with the Australian fans throughout the week. While Americans have their own traditions, few experiences topped Winston's firsthand look at Australia's famous shoey celebration. Winston witnessed one of Australia's most famous traditions firsthand as fans drank beer from a shoe. "They showed us an amazing tradition in Australian culture," Winston said. "I’m talking about drinking a brew from a shoe. You gotta love traditions." Emerald City is ready! Seattle has a legit claim at being one of the most soccer-crazed cities in the country. Winston joined the American Outlaws – the official supporters' group of the U.S. teams – before Friday's huge match. Seattle is awash in red, white, and blue and this city knows how to get behind a winner, having just recently celebrated the Super Bowl-winning Seahawks. Winston has now found himself at a Seattle Mariners game, where he was honored with the opportunity to throw out the ceremonial first pitch. Next, he'll turn his attention to soccer as the United States men's national team prepares to face Australia at Seattle Stadium on Friday night. During his appearance at T-Mobile Park, Winston rallied the crowd into a loud chorus of "USA" chants. His mission was to create the biggest chant possible in Seattle, and by all accounts, he succeeded. As Winston's World Cup journey continues across the country, he is bringing fans together through a shared love of the game. The roaring "USA" chant at the Mariners game was another example of his ability to connect with sports fans wherever he goes. Now, it doesn't seem likely that these England supporters actually have the royal authority to knight Jameis Winston, but listen: it's the World Cup, everyone is having a good time, so, Sir Jameis Winston it is, even if just for a day. Even if being knighted is an ephemeral act, that kit is not: Winston now has himself an England jersey with his name on it. A knight's cuirass? Brigandine? Hauberk? His chain mail? Whichever it's standing in for, it's custom just for Jameis. Lionel Messi has completely taken over Argentina’s opening FIFA World Cup match against Algeria, scoring not one, not two but three goals, completing the hat trick. He would have even had a fourth if he hadn’t been ruled offside earlier in the first half. Jameis Winston had the best angle on Messi’s golazo and was seen celebrating with fans in Argentina’s section. He was also wearing a customized "Winston Argentina" jersey. Tuesday ahead of Argentina's World Cup opener against Algeria in Kansas City, Winston was getting pumped for the match. But he wasn't alone. Winston had a pal with him, a literal real-life goat named Wesley, who was perfectly dressed for the occasion in a Lionel Messi jersey. This World Cup is expected to be Messi's last, and because of that, it's worth celebrating and savoring every moment the GOAT is on the pitch. It's not often to see a goat, much less one adorned in the trademark colors of a living legend, being at the center of attention ahead of one of the most anticipated games at the tournament. But Wesley dressed as Messi deserves all the love he was shown in KC. Winston continues to be a national treasure when it comes to his involvement in the World Cup this year. He was spotted helping Japanese fans clean up the stands (a tradition that was spotlighted after the team's first World Cup in 1998) following Japan's thrilling 2-2 draw with the Netherlands on Sunday afternoon. The FOX Sports broadcast team, featuring Rob Stone, couldn’t contain their excitement for Winston as the feed shifted over to him in the crowd. "Jameis Winston is working with the Japanese national team to clean up Dallas Stadium," Stone said. "He’s a man of the people. Show me a number one draft pick in NFL history who takes out his own garbage bag and cleans up inside the stadium. One of the Japanese fans later described how he was surprised to see an NFL quarterback joining the clean-up effort, but was appreciative on Winston joining the cherished tradition. Jameis got up close and personal with one of the best fan bases in the world in Dallas, where the Netherlands and the always raucous "Oranje Army" know how to make an entrance. Winston rode along with the Dutch fans in their "Oranje Army Bus" and admitted that "there's nothing bigger than the Dutch Army." USA! USA! Jameis took in the sights and sounds at Los Angeles Stadium for the United States' opening match Friday, which included meeting up with influencer IShowSpeed. Not a bad way to see one of the USA's biggest wins ever at a World Cup.

Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce's 'Love Story' Complete: Star Couple Gets Married At MSG

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 00:03:57 -0400

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce married Friday night at Madison Square Garden, where actor Adam Sandler was the surprising officiant at a star-packed ceremony. The secrecy that surrounded the buildup to the nuptials lifted when a marquee outside the Midtown Manhattan arena proclaimed "JUST&T MARRIED" once the deed was done. The couple did not have bridesmaids or groomsmen, instead opting for Swift’s brother Austin Swift to serve as her man of honor and Kelce’s brother and podcast co-host Jason Kelce serving as his best man, Swift's publicist Tree Paine said in an email. The bride and groom’s outfits came from Christian Dior Haute Couture and its designer Jonathan Anderson, with shoes custom-made by Christian Louboutin. She wore Cartier jewelry. The long-anticipated union of sports and song brought hype to new heights at a venue made more for historic NBA games and bucket-list concerts. The Kansas City Chiefs' superstar tight end and the music megastar married as fans and spectators gathered outside in blistering heat, eager to be part of the occasion, even though the event was almost entirely hidden. Singer Camila Cabello, actors Hugh Grant, Ethan Hawke and Jason Sudeikis, and model Karlie Kloss were among the guests. Running back Kareem Hunt was among Kelce's Chiefs teammates in attendance. Seattle Seahawks receiver and recent Super Bowl champ Cooper Kupp, New York Giants receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster, NFL announcer Joe Buck and Jenny Han, author of the "The Summer I Turned Pretty" series were also seen entering the arena. In a culture obsessed with famous couplings, it may be the apex celebrity wedding, with perhaps only royal unions getting more attention. Holding such a ceremony in a huge, iconic space that sits at the center of the U.S. media universe while keeping all the details secret made for a surreal scene, but it was a mix of hype and hush that is not out of character for Swift. An Associated Press camera outside the arena showed a long line of black SUVs dropping off wedding-goers in tuxedos and evening gowns, surrounded by New Yorkers in shorts and Swifties amassing for the occasion. Celebrities, athletes and friends were posting on social media about getting ready or about to leave for a black-tie event, including Brandon Borders, producer of the New Heights podcast starring Kelce and his brother Jason Kelce; Beau Allen, retired defensive lineman for the Philadelphia Eagles; and Jessica Chastain. There was a notable lack of social media posts from guests once they had entered the arena, after reports that phones would not be allowed. Rain began falling soon after the marriage was announced. Weddings have been a constant subject in Swift’s songs since she was a teenager, and her actually walking the aisle for the first time at age 36 adds to the drama. It would also be a first marriage for the 36-year-old three-time Super Bowl champ Kelce, who could have been one of the jock characters in Swift's early hits. Sandler, star of "The Wedding Singer" and many other hit comedies, can’t have been high on anyone’s betting list for who would marry the couple, though he’s become an increasingly warm and paternal cultural figure with age. The email announcing the marriage described him as "a friend" of the couple. Kelce was one of the many athletes who appeared in "Happy Gilmore 2," Sandler's 2025 sequel to one of his earlier hits. The relationship of the pop star and the football player has thrilled and fascinated millions around the world — particularly the Swifties, the pop star’s enormous and ardent fan base — ever since the pair first started dating in 2023. Outside the arena, some frazzled tourists mixed with happy fans. Lori Powers, who lives an hour north of Manhattan and rode the train in to be near the nuptials, said Swift's "music is the soundtrack behind so many amazing moments in my life. Relationships, friends, like my husband and my kids." She stood outside the arena before the marriage was announced with her friend Cecily Hall. "Just being here and witnessing all the energy and the excitement, it’s so much fun," Hall said. "The combination of sports and music makes perfect sense as to why they’re at Madison Square Garden today." Questions remain about who may perform and what it looked like inside the affair that could go well into the night. Reporting by The Associated Press.

2026 NFL Odds: Josh Allen, Buffalo Best Bet To Win AFC East

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 12:58:50 -0400

The Fourth of July is a great time to celebrate. Hot dogs, hamburgers, fireworks and warm weather — Independence Day is a 1-seed when it comes to holidays. The nation’s birthday also means football is right around the corner. The late, great John Madden used to say July 4 is what he considered the start of football season, as training camp is just weeks away, and the start of the regular season is just two months away. As we prep for football season and fantasy drafts, the best bet I think to be made right now is the Buffalo Bills to win the AFC East at -125. This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. The Bills had won this division five consecutive years until last season, when the New England Patriots unseated the Bills on their way to another AFC championship. But last year, the Patriots had a pillow-soft schedule, playing just four of their 17 games against teams that would go on to make the playoffs. The Steelers, Panthers and two games against the Bills were the only other playoff teams the Patriots encountered last regular season, and this year, a first-place schedule will give the Pats a significantly tougher test. That schedule includes the Jaguars, Broncos, Seahawks, Chiefs, Chargers, Lions, Packers, Bears and two games against the Bills. The Super Bowl hangover has long been an obstacle for teams who struggle to bounce back the following year after losing the Big Game, and the last three Super Bowl losers combined to win zero playoff games the following year, with two of those teams missing the playoffs entirely. The Bills finished runners-up in the AFC East last year but were still able to win 12 games. That was their seventh consecutive double-digit win season. Bills quarterback Josh Allen is one of the league’s best and most durable players. While his teams have yet to get over the hump and win — or even play in — a Super Bowl, he’s a regular-season winning machine. With Allen, the Bills have won 10 or more games every year except for his rookie year in 2018. With the Patriots' difficult schedule and the consistency of the Bills, I like the AFC East to once again go back to the Bills for what would be a sixth division title in seven years. PICK: Bills (-125) to win AFC East

The 10 Biggest Men's Cinderella Stories Since 2000 Ahead Of Cape Verde-Argentina

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 19:59:58 -0400

If Cape Verde, the 64th-ranked team in the FIFA World Rankings, beat Argentina on Friday in the round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup, the Blue Sharks may very well top this list. Cape Verde is making its first-ever World Cup appearance and advanced to the knockout stage after getting results against Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia in the group stage. Eliminating Argentina and Lionel Messi in a win-or-go-home scenario, though, is a next-level proposition. There have been amazing Cinderella runs across sports since the turn of the century, from international soccer to March Madness and the NFL. Here are the top 10, with the top of the list showing you just how unlikely Cape Verde advancing is. Honorable Mentions Dusty May's coaching career took off during Florida Atlantic's 2023 March Madness run. Entering the tournament as a No. 9 seed, the Owls stunned the college basketball world by upsetting Tennessee and Kansas State to reach the program's first Final Four. It was one of the most memorable Cinderella runs in recent memory, ending in a heartbreaking 72-71 loss to San Diego State in the Final Four. After losing 110 games in 2021, they found themselves in the World Series just two years later, fueled by a young core that shattered expectations. Led by rookie phenom Corbin Carroll, the Diamondbacks went on a true Cinderella run. They upset the NL Central champions (the Milwaukee Brewers) in the Wild Card round before beating the NL West champions (the 100-win Los Angeles Dodgers) in the Division Series and NL East champions (Philadelphia Phillies) in the Championship Series. Ultimately, Arizona lost the World Series in five games to the Texas Rangers. George Mason has set the standard for Cinderella runs, becoming one of the most memorable tournament stories in recent memory. They tied the then-record for the lowest seed (No. 11) to reach the Final Four, becoming the first double-digit seed to do so since LSU in 1986. They reached the Final Four after knocking off No. 6 seed Michigan State Spartans, No. 3 seed North Carolina Tar Heels, the defending national champions, and No. 1 seed UConn Huskies in an overtime thriller. It remains one of the most shocking Cinderella runs in tournament history. The St. Louis Cardinals won 90 games, but they caught fire at the right time after falling behind earlier in the season. They pulled off one of the greatest comebacks in history, overcoming a 10.5-game deficit in late August despite having just a 1.3% chance of reaching the postseason. They entered the NLDS as heavy underdogs against a 102-win Philadelphia Phillies team, but pushed the series to five games behind a dominant 1-0 complete-game shutout from Chris Carpenter. From there, they went on to win the World Series, defeating the Texas Rangers in six games. Little was expected of the Moroccans at the World Cup. They were in the same group as Croatia, Belgium and Canada. Morocco opened with a draw against Croatia before getting a huge 2-0 win over Belgium and dispatching Canada in its final group game. That was good enough to win the group. What happened next was one of the greatest runs in World Cup history as Morocco became the first African and first Arab team to ever reach a World Cup semifinal. In the knockout rounds, Morocco took out its two closest European neighbors in sensational fashion. First was a penalty-shootout win over Spain that saw La Roja miss all three of its attempts. Then was a 1-0 win over Portugal, with Youssef En Nesyri scoring the winner late in the first half. Morocco then gave France a run for its money before a 79th-minute goal from Randal Kolo Muani sealed a 2-0 win. It was a magical moment that captivated the entire tournament held in Qatar. It was reminiscent of South Korea’s 2002 run that saw them make the semifinals with wins over Italy and Spain in the knockout rounds. One of the greatest Cinderella stories in NFL history belongs to the 2017 Philadelphia Eagles. After MVP frontrunner Carson Wentz went down with a season-ending knee injury in Week 14, backup quarterback Nick Foles led them on one of the most unexpected playoff runs in history. Foles put together a playoff run for the record books. The Eagles took down the Atlanta Falcons and Minnesota Vikings with ease before beating the New England Patriots 41-33 in Super Bowl LII, ending their historic dynasty run. Before Norway captivated the 2026 World Cup with its ‘Viking Row’ celebration, tiny Iceland roared onto the scene with its own iconic chant and memorable moments at the 2016 European Championship in France. Two draws against Portugal and Hungary set up a pivotal group stage finale with Austria, in which Arnór Traustason scored a stoppage-time goal to secure a knockout round appearance. In the round of 16, Iceland pulled off one of the most unexpected wins in tournament history by taking down heavy favorite England 2-1 in which all goals were scored within the first 18 minutes. The party ended in the quarterfinals with a 5-2 loss to tourney hosts France, but Iceland captivated the fans across the globe. Two years later, Iceland became the smallest nation by population to reach a men's World Cup. Florida Gulf Coast made history as the first No. 15 seed to reach the Sweet 16 at the 2013 NCAA Tournament. Their Cinderella run featured upset wins over Georgetown and San Diego State before losing to Florida. Nicknamed "Dunk City," the program captivated the tournament with acrobatic alley-oops and powerful slams. They finished with nearly 20 dunks across three games, injecting rare swagger into a small-school underdog and proving that mid-major programs can make a lasting impact. Greece entered Euro 2004 as the No. 35 team in the world according to the FIFA World Rankings. The Greeks were the 17th UEFA team in those rankings. Two months later, they were 14th. Greece was 150-1 to win the Euros, but there were signs that a run might be coming, like how it beat Spain to win its qualifying group. Greece beat host-nation Portugal and then drew Spain to open its group play at the tournament before getting lucky on Match Day 3 to advance. The Greeks lost to Russia, but Portugal beat Spain. Greece was tied with Spain on four points but went through to the knockout stage thanks to a tiebreaker. Greece won the title with three straight 1-0 wins in the knockout stage. The first came against a France team that included legends like Thierry Henry and Zinedine Zidane. Then, Greece took down the Czech Republic in extra time before a shocking win over in the final over Portugal in Lisbon. Saint Peter’s made history in 2022 by becoming the first No. 15 seed to reach the Elite Eight in the NCAA Men’s Tournament. Their Cinderella run included upset wins over No. 2 seed Kentucky Wildcats and No. 3 seed Purdue Boilermakers. After beating Purdue, Saint Peter’s finally ran into its final obstacle, falling 69-49 to North Carolina in the Elite Eight. The loss ended their Cinderella run, but it didn’t take away one of the most captivating March Madness stories in recent memory. The Cinderella story that helped launch the legendary career of New England Patriots icon Tom Brady began when starter Drew Bledsoe was injured early in the season. Brady stepped in and led the Patriots to their first Super Bowl title in franchise history. The rise was a true Cinderella story, beginning with a backup quarterback taking them all the way. Their playoff run featured the infamous "tuck rule" game against the Oakland Raiders, before they stunned the Los Angeles Rams as 14-point underdogs to win Super Bowl XXXVI. This one will be tough to top, especially because it lasted a 38-game season. Leicester City finished 17th in the previous Premier League season, barely avoiding relegation. The following season, the Foxes lifted the trophy after starting the campaign as a 5,000-1 underdog to do so. Leicester City lost three times that season, twice to Arsenal and once away to Liverpool. The dream became real when it went 9-2-0 from the start of October through Dec. 19. The Foxes also only lost once in 2016, and it took a stoppage-time winner for Arsenal to do that. There were no high-profile signings among the core of the squad. Kasper Schmeichel cost £1.5 million; Danny Drinkwater cost £630,000; Jamie Vardy joined from a team playing in the fifth division of English soccer for £1 million; N’Golo Kante cost £5.8 million; Riyad Mahrez joined for just £450,000.

Sports World Reacts To Folarin Balogun's Controversial Red Card In USA Win: 'Man What'

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 00:44:27 -0400

The U.S. men's soccer team defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 on Wednesday to reach the World Cup round of 16, but the victory came with some controversy that could hurt the team in the long run. Folarin Balogun received a red card during the 64th minute of the matchup against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The USA star forward stepped on Bosnia and Herzegovina center back Tarik Muharemovic's ankle as he was falling while challenging a ball. Balogun wasn't called for a red card initially. However, after a VAR check, it was determined that Balogun's challenge was worthy of a red card. So, even though the USA's victory was a joyful occasion, many in the sports world were stunned by the decision to give Balogun a red card. Even some in the NFL thought the call was bad, like Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams. Future Pro Football Hall of Famers JJ Watt and Jason Kelce weighed in, too. In the basketball community, Basketball Hall of Famer Dirk Nowitzki and New York Knicks standout Josh Hart also joined the chorus. FOX Sports soccer analyst Alexi Lalas thought there was an inconsistency with the VAR decision that led to Balogun's red card. He shared a picture of Lionel Messi making a similar play earlier in the World Cup that didn't lead to a VAR check. Soccer broadcaster Ian Darke, meanwhile, thought that the play was worthy of a card, but not a red. On a different note, NBA icon LeBron James weighed in on the goal Balogun scored earlier in the night. As Balogun used James' iconic silencer celebration, the NBA's all-time leading scorer saluted him.

More Magic At MSG: Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce To Hold Wedding At Iconic NYC Venue

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 17:43:28 -0400

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce will have their wedding at Madison Square Garden on Friday night, according to a law enforcement official briefed on the security plans. The festivities will kick off with a smaller rehearsal dinner planned for Thursday night, the official said. The person spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to publicly discuss the events. Speculation about the superstar singer and football player’s nuptials has built to a frenzy in recent days, following weeks of unconfirmed reports that it would take place over July Fourth weekend at one of New York’s iconic landmarks. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said on Wednesday that a permit had been filed for a "large event" at Madison Square Garden. "We are fully prepared," he added. "There isn’t anything to share beyond that." New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said police "will of course have a detail in place," but also declined to go into further detail. This week, crews have been unloading equipment from trucks outside the Manhattan arena. A large carpet was briefly unveiled outside one entrance and then promptly removed. Nothing has been publicly confirmed by the couple, despite multiple requests from The Associated Press to Swift’s representative for comment, including on Wednesday. Reporting by The Associated Press.

Lions Forced Into The Free Agent Cornerback Market After Releasing Terrion Arnold

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 21:53:37 -0400

The Detroit Lions seemed to be prepared to potentially play without Terrion Arnold, putting the cornerback on the field with backups during minicamp in mid-June. And suddenly, Arnold is a former player for the franchise. Detroit released Arnold on Monday, the same day a Florida judge set his bail at $1 million as he faces eight felony charges tied to allegations he orchestrated the abduction and beating of three men. The move leaves the Lions with eight players they list as cornerbacks on the roster, including three players with a combined 164 games of starting experience in the NFL. D.J. Reed, Rock Ya-Sin and Roger McCreary will likely compete to start when the season kicks off in September. The team is hopeful Ennis Rakestraw, who was drafted in the second round two years ago, can contribute after missing last season following shoulder surgery and being limited to eight games as a rookie due to hamstring and ankle injuries. "We still got Reed," Lions coach Dan Campbell said in March, months before the team cut ties with Arnold. "We like (Rakestraw) coming back. I know it’s unproven right now, but, he’s had a good offseason to this point. We got Rock (Ya-Sin) and McCreary. "We’ve got some things there." Some notable cornerbacks are still available in free agency, but four-time Pro Bowler Marshon Lattimore and 2021 All-Pro Trevon Diggs are coming off at least three injury-shortened seasons. Kenny Moore II might be a fit after asking the Indianapolis Colts to trade him and getting released in May. The 30-year-old Moore started seven games last season and has 111 career starts for the Colts over nine seasons, including 2021, when he earned Pro Bowl recognition. Detroit drafted Arnold with the No. 24 pick overall in 2024, when the NFL draft was in the Motor City and the former Alabama star sported a big smile and an electric salmon silk suit. He had two years left on his four-year rookie contract. Arnold had an uneven rookie season, defending 10 passes in 15 starts without an interception. He picked off one pass last season while he was limited to eight games due to a concussion and shoulder injury. A month after the season ended for the Lions, prosecutors in Florida say, Arnold arranged for three men to be pistol-whipped after he wrongly suspected them of stealing $100,000 in cash and luxury goods from him. In March, Campbell said the Lions believed Arnold was not involved in the alleged crime based on the information they had at that time. "I feel like we're going to be good here," Campbell told reporters. "I’m going to trust what the kid said." Two months later, Arnold's stock with the team seemed to slip as he was not on the field with the No. 1 defense during offseason workouts while working his way back from the shoulder injury. "We got a lot of good guys in that room and he knows this," Campbell said on June 17. "He's got to earn it." Before the Lions released Arnold, the judge did not require him to wear an ankle monitor because it would have prevented him from taking the field for games and training. Harvey Steinberg, an attorney for Arnold, argued in court Monday that prosecutors are "not even close" to showing that Arnold knew or directed what his associates would do. Reporting by the Associated Press.

Brendan Sorsby Drops NFL Lawsuit, Shifts Focus to 2027 Draft: ‘I Accept 100% Responsibility’

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 20:30:52 -0400

Brendan Sorsby is moving on to 2027. The NFL sent a memo to all 32 teams on Tuesday informing them that Sorsby, a quarterback whose college career ended when the NCAA banished him for gambling activity that included wagers on his own team while on the roster at Indiana in 2022 and betting on pro sports, will not seek legal action against the NFL after the league denied his petition to enter the supplemental draft. "I accept 100% responsibility for my actions," Sorsby posted on Instagram on Tuesday evening. "I did not have control of my gambling problem and it took getting caught to realize that, but it was truly the best thing that could have happened to me." Sorsby, who moved from Indiana to Cincinnati to Texas Tech before revelations about an extensive gambling problem surfaced, tried to enter the draft just three days before the scheduled deadline. The league, which hasn't held a supplemental draft since 2023 and hasn't had a player selected in it since 2019, denied the petition. "The issues presented by your Petition are too significant, and too closely tied to the League’s core integrity interests, to permit meaningful review within the timeline presented," NFL attorney Lawrence P. Ferazani Jr. wrote in a letter to Sorsby last week. The 22-year-old Sorsby, who cannot play in the Canadian Football League in 2026, is now considered "draft-eligible" for the 2027 NFL draft. Sorsby will not be eligible to sign an NFL contract until the draft's conclusion. The NFL has no plans to discipline Sorsby for any currently known prior misconduct but holds the right to investigate Sorsby. The league can also take Sorsby's college misconduct into account should it find cause to discipline Sorsby in the future. Sorsby's decision to not challenge the NFL in court leaves him with 10 months on his hands to prepare. Sorsby had planned to play at Texas Tech this year before the NCAA declared him ineligible for making thousands of bets on sporting events worth at least $90,000 during his college career. Those included at least 40 bets on Indiana while he was a freshman there in 2022, though none on the games in which he played for the Hoosiers that season. "I am fully committed to being the best version of myself that I can be while getting ready for the 2027 draft," Sorsby wrote. "God makes no mistakes and I look forward to seeing the good that is to come from this." Reporting by the Associated Press.

Cowboys RB Javonte Williams After Breakout Year: 'Got A Lot More To Prove'

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 16:53:56 -0400

Javonte Williams proved that he was a No. 1 running back in 2025, but the Dallas Cowboys running back isn't getting comfortable after his breakout season. "It felt good, just knowing all my hard work paid off, and I got a little bit of security. But I've still got a lot more to prove," Williams said in an interview with The Dallas Morning News about signing his new contract with the Cowboys this offseason. "I at least want to go to the Pro Bowl and definitely want to get to a Super Bowl with the team. Just working hard, grinding, and trying to be a better version of myself. That's all I'm worried about." Williams re-signed with the Cowboys on a three-year, $24 million deal in February, a contract which includes $16 million guaranteed. Williams, who was selected by the Denver Broncos with the No. 35 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft out of North Carolina, had an up-and-down four-year stint in Denver (2021-24), highlighted by rushing for 903 yards in his 2021 rookie season but low-lighted by suffering a season-ending knee injury four games into the 2022 season. Williams signed a one-year, $3.5 million deal with the Cowboys in the 2025 NFL offseason and went on to become one of the best signings of the offseason. Across 16 games, Williams, who was the Cowboys' lead back, rushed for 1,201 yards and 11 touchdowns on 4.8 yards per carry, which were all career highs; he also totaled two receiving scores. Moreover, Williams' 1,201 rushing yards were the most by a Cowboys' player since Ezekiel Elliott rushed for 1,357 yards in 2019. Meanwhile, Williams' 11 rushing touchdowns were the most by a Dallas back since Elliott tallied 12 rushing scores in 2022. Williams added that Cowboys legend Emmitt Smith, the all-time NFL leader in rushing yards (18,355) and rushing touchdowns (164), told him to "keep running the way" he was rushing and "everything will be all right."

Lions Release CB Terrion Arnold As He Faces Felony & Kidnapping Charges

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 16:50:25 -0400

The NFL’s Detroit Lions on Monday released cornerback Terrion Arnold, only days after his arrest over allegations that he orchestrated the abduction and beating of three men whom prosecutors believe he wrongly suspected of having stolen luxury goods and $100,000 in cash from him. The team made the announcement on the X social media platform. The team did not give a reason, but the announcement came the same day that a Florida judge set Arnold’s bail at $1 million. Prosecutors had wanted the cornerback held without bond on the eight felony charges he faces, including four counts each of kidnapping and assault. But Chief Circuit Court Judge Christopher Sabella granted bond to Arnold, who won't be required to wear an ankle monitor because it would prevent him from taking the field for games and training. The judge said Arnold already has a "paparazzi monitor," referring to the photographers who have been watching his movements. "If he shows up on a beach in Tahiti, he'll be on social media," Sabella said at the end of the bond hearing in Tampa. Sabella said that although the charges are serious — each could bring a life sentence if Arnold is convicted — prosecutors are "not there yet" in having a strong case for Arnold's guilt. The judge did order Arnold to remain at his home in Tallahassee except for when he's playing, training and traveling with the Lions. He also said Arnold cannot have any contact with other people tied to the case. Prosecutors allege that Arnold had three men in their late teens, including his driver, held at gunpoint in a Tampa apartment, pistol-whipped and beaten in February after the luxury items and cash were reported stolen from an Airbnb in the area. Arnold initially set up the kidnappings by telling others he thought he knew who had stolen from him and saying he wanted to confront them, prosecutors allege. "Our office remains committed to seeking justice for the three victims in the case who were beaten, robbed, and held against their will," said Erin Maloney, a spokesperson for the state attorney's office. Arnold was taken by the Lions with the 24th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. He had 91 total tackles and one interception in 24 career games over two seasons. Arnold missed nine games in 2025 as he dealt with a shoulder injury. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Judge Sets $1 Million Bond For Lions CB Terrion Arnold in Florida Kidnapping Case

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 15:19:38 -0400

A Florida judge set a $1 million bond Monday for Detroit Lions player Terrion Arnold, who is accused of orchestrating the abduction and beating of three men who prosecutors believe he wrongly suspected of having stolen luxury goods and $100,000 in cash from him. Prosecutors had wanted the cornerback held without bond on the eight felony charges he faces, including four counts each of kidnapping and assault. But Chief Circuit Court Judge Christopher Sabella granted bond to Arnold, who won't be required to wear an ankle monitor because it would prevent him from taking the field for games and training. The judge said Arnold already has a "paparazzi monitor," referring to the photographers who have been watching his movements. "If he shows up on a beach in Tahiti, he'll be on social media," Sabella said at the end of the bond hearing in Tampa. Sabella said that although the charges are serious — each could bring a life sentence if Arnold is convicted — prosecutors are "not there yet" in having a strong case for Arnold's guilt. The judge did order Arnold to remain at his home in Tallahassee except for when he's playing, training and traveling with the Lions. He also said Arnold cannot have any contact with other people tied to the case. Prosecutors allege that Arnold had three men in their late teens, including his driver, held at gunpoint in a Tampa apartment, pistol-whipped and beaten in February after the luxury items and cash were reported stolen from an Airbnb in the area. Arnold initially set up the kidnappings by telling others he thought he knew who had stolen from him and saying he wanted to confront them, prosecutors allege. "Our office remains committed to seeking justice for the three victims in the case who were beaten, robbed, and held against their will," said Erin Maloney, a spokesperson for the state attorney's office. Denise White, the CEO of EAG Sports Management, which represents Arnold, said the judge's ruling "confirms that there is very little evidence to even suggest any criminal involvement by Mr. Arnold." Reporting by the Associated Press.

Deion Sanders Considers Himself 'Cancer Free' One Year After Bladder Removal Surgery

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 15:10:22 -0400

Deion "Coach Prime" Sanders says he feels like his old — and younger — self again a year after undergoing surgery to remove his cancerous bladder. "I consider myself cancer-free," thanks to robotic surgery that also reconstructed his bladder using part of his intestine, Sanders told The Associated Press after getting a tutorial in the surgical system that was used in his operation. This being Men's Health Awareness Month, the University of Colorado football coach wanted to get a first-hand look at the Intuitive Da Vinci System, which is less invasive than open surgeries and cuts down on hospital stays and speeds recoveries. "I was fighting" last year at this time, Sanders recalled. "I was walking out on the property with a bag of blood and also urine and trying to get back. But this expedited the process. Last year at this time I was in a whole different place, and I'm just thankful." Sanders missed football camps last summer in Boulder as he went through cancer treatments. The Buffaloes finished with a 3-9 mark a year after making a bowl game behind Shedeur Sanders and Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter. This summer he appears much fitter and energetic as he oversees offseason training. "If I pull my shirt up, I'm not scarred, it's not flawed. I'm not embarrassed by anything that transpired. I'm elated by everything that transpired," Sanders said. At a routine checkup last spring, a CT scan showed a mass on Sanders' bladder. He was referred to the University of Colorado Anschutz, where he met Dr. Janet Kukreja, director of urologic oncology at the CU Cancer Center and UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital. Sanders, who turns 59 later this summer, was diagnosed with a malignant tumor in his bladder. Although the tumor hadn't reached the muscle layer in his bladder it was considered "very high risk" with a 50-50 chance of recurring or progressing after treatments. Kukreja is among the small group of surgeons in the U.S. who perform robotic removal of the entire cancerous bladder — called a radical cystectomy — and robotic reconstruction of the organ, which involves having a section of intestine function as a bladder. "It got me back in the game, got me back on my feet and got me out of the darn hospital and back into the normalcy of my life," Sanders said. "I'm here to let people know there's another option if you need surgery." He called the robotic system his time machine. "I'd be a fool to be blessed the way I was blessed and not sound alarms," Sanders said. "When I opened up a club years ago I went to the mountaintop and told all the stations come on to the nightclub. So, why wouldn't I do this? Saved me time so I could get back on the field, get back on my game instead of sitting up there in the hospital having a pity party. It saves you time. That’s what we’re all fighting for is time. We never know how much we get." Football Past and Present Sanders has spent time recently with his son Shedeur, who's entering his second year with the Cleveland Browns and who will compete for the starting job with Deshaun Watson in training camp. "He's on vacation but he's going to the hills in St. Croix right now doing gassers," Sanders said. Asked what he thought about Hunter, entering his second season in Jacksonville, possibly focusing on playing defensive back after pulling double duty as a DB and wide receiver in college, Sanders said, "I just want him to be happy. I can't tell those coaches how to coach and Travis what he's gifted to do. I just want him happy; that's all I want." As for Julian "JuJu" Lewis, the Buffs' starting quarterback and former five-star recruit out of Carrollton, Georgia, who took over the starting role as a freshman late last season, Sanders said those cameos will pay dividends in 2026. "I think the entire team is benefitting" from lessons learned last year and new faces arriving this spring, Sanders said. "I have the best coaching staff I've ever featured. Everybody's unified. I just walked out of the weight room. They're lifting their butts off and they can't wait to go to camp. It's going to be phenomenal." Reporting by the Associated Press.

Best NFL Betting Sites: Top Sportsbook Apps (2026)

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 14:44:29 -0400

This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. We’ve assembled a list of the seven best NFL betting sites to target during the offseason and ahead of the upcoming draft. This guide is built to help you find the right NFL sportsbook for your approach — whether you prioritize early draft odds, competitive futures pricing, strong promotional incentives, deep prop menus or a streamlined mobile app. Compare our top picks and choose the platform that aligns with how you like to bet. With offseason storylines driving movement across draft position markets, win totals and long-term futures, sportsbook selection matters more than ever. Having the right NFL betting app can give you an edge year-round, from early offseason betting through kickoff and the Super Bowl. Best NFL Betting Sites & Mobile Apps - Sportsbook Reviews Here’s a quick overview of our top picks for NFL betting sites and apps and what each platform does best: BetMGM Sportsbook - Best Overall NFL Betting Site Overview:BetMGM is nicknamed "King of Sportsbooks" and backs it up by offering one of the widest selections of NFL betting markets. One area where BetMGM stands out is its unmatched range of player props, offering bets on niche season-wide and single-game player stats. Pros: Cons: BetMGM NFL Betting Features & Promotions: BetMGM NFL Sign-up Bonus: Get a $50 BetMGM Reward Points Bonus + $1500 Back in Bonus Bets, If Your First Bet Doesn't Win with Code ‘FOXSPORTS’ Available States:AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, WY Why We Recommend it:BetMGM is our top recommended NFL sportsbook app thanks to its deep market selection, innovative features like the Edit My Bet tool, and boosted odds for big games. The variety of props lets you play exactly how you want to. FanDuel Sportsbook – Best NFL Betting Mobile App Overview: The FanDuel app is one of the easiest-to-use platforms. It is optimized for NFL betting and has easy navigation between game lines, props, and parlay options. It is the gold standard for U.S. Sportsbooks. Fast, reliable, well-designed. Biometric login (Face ID / Touch ID), dark mode and geolocation tools for legal state access. Pros: Cons: FanDuel NFL Betting Features & Promotions: Current FanDuel Promo Offer for New Users: Bet $5 Get $200 in Bet Reset Tokens for 5 Days Available States:AZ, CO, CT, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, WY + DC & PR Why We Recommend it:This is the easiest app to use as a new bettor. It couldn't be simpler to use its interface, including learning how to place bets directly from your phone. The access to same-game parlays on the app is quick, and everything you would need is easy to find. bet365 – Best NFL Odds & Early Payout Overview: bet365 is a global heavyweight known for sharp pricing and outstanding in-play options. For NFL bettors, its Early Payout stands out: straight moneyline bets are settled as winners if your team goes 17 points ahead at any time. Pros: Cons: bet365 NFL Betting Features & Promotions: bet365 NFL Sign-up Bonus: Bet $10, Get $150 in Bonus Bets (win or lose) Minimum $10 deposit required. Minimum odds -500 of greater. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns. New customers only. T&CS, time limits and exclusions apply. Available States:AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, KS, KA, KY, LA, MD, MI, MO, NJ, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA Why We Recommend it:If you value sharp NFL odds and a safety buffer against blown leads, bet365’s pricing and Early Payout are hard to beat. DraftKings – Best NFL Sportsbook Promotions Overview:DraftKings pairs a deep NFL menu with fast pricing and one of the most aggressive new-user packages during football season. For 2026, new customers get $200 in bonus bets instantly after a $5 wager. Pros: Cons: DraftKings NFL Betting Features & Promotions: DraftKings NFL Sign-up Bonus: Bet $5 and Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly Available States:AR, AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA (select parishes), MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, NC, NJ, NH, NY, OH, OR, PA, PR (residents only), TN, VA, VT, WY or WV Why We Recommend it:If you want quick bonus value and football-centric perks, DraftKings’ NFL promo stack is one of the strongest this season. Caesars – Best NFL Betting Rewards Program Overview:Caesars combines a clean NFL menu with Caesars Rewards tier credits on eligible wagers. The current welcome focuses on profit boosts that double your winnings on many small tickets right after you join. Pros: Cons: Caesars NFL Betting Features & Promotions: Caesars NFL Sign-up Bonus: Bet $1, Double Your Winnings Your Next 10 Wagers with Code 'FOXDYW' Available States:AZ, CO, DC, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MO, NV, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY Why We Recommend it:If you like spreading value across multiple NFL bets and earning hotel/entertainment rewards, Caesars delivers on both. Fanatics Sportsbook – Most Unique Loyalty Rewards Overview:Fanatics leans into FanCash, letting you convert rewards into bonus bets or merchandise. During football season, the book features repeated no-sweat style protections that refund losses in FanCash. Pros: Cons: Fanatics NFL Betting Features & Promotions: Fanatics NFL Sign-up Bonus: Get a 100% bet match up to $100 in FanCash for 10 days Available States:AZ, CO, CT, IN, IL, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, MO, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VT, VA, WV, WY Why We Recommend it:If you want repeated protection and flexible rewards you can recycle into bets or gear, Fanatics’ FanCash model is uniquely valuable. theScore Bet – Best New NFL Betting Site Overview:theScore Bet offers a clean, content-driven sportsbook experience built directly into theScore app, making it especially appealing for users who already follow live scores, stats, and news. Its streamlined interface and integrated media experience create a seamless transition from consuming sports content to placing NFL bets. Pros: Cons: theScore Bet NFL Betting Features & Promotions: theScore Bet NFL Welcome Bonus: Bet & Get $1,000 Bet Reset Available States:AZ, CO, DC, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, MO, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV Why We Recommend it:theScore Bet stands out for its seamless integration with sports content, making it one of the easiest platforms to use for NFL betting. If you already use theScore app to follow games, it offers one of the most natural and frictionless betting experiences available. NFL Betting App User Reviews NFL Live-Betting Apps Live betting lets you place wagers after kickoff, with odds that update in real time based on the score, clock, drives, and injuries. You’ll see changing lines for moneylines, spreads, totals, player props, and drive or quarter markets. Football’s stop-start rhythm creates frequent pricing pauses, so sportsbooks can refresh odds between plays, drives, and quarters. That gives bettors many decision points throughout the game. Live-betting essentially allows you to double down, hedge bets and capitalize on slow starts. Best Sportsbooks for Live Betting NFL Sportsbook Welcome Bonuses A welcome bonus is a new-customer offer that gives you extra value when you open an account and place an initial wager. Sportsbooks use these bonuses to attract first-time users, help you try the app with lower risk, and encourage you to explore more markets. Below we'll go into the two most common types: "Bet & Get" and "First-Bet Safety Net" bonuses. NFL Bet & Get Bonus In this offer, you make a low-bar qualifying bet, then receive bonus bets regardless of outcome. It’s great if you want instant value without risking a big first wager. Use a quick-settling market to unlock the offer fast, then deploy the bonus bets on lines you actually like—totals, player props, or a small underdog flyer. Remember, a bonus-bet stake usually isn’t returned, only the winnings. For example, let's say you place a $5 qualifying wager on the Eagles moneyline for Week 1. Win or lose, you’re credited $200 in bonus bets (often split into four $50 tokens). If you then use one $50 bonus bet on the Cowboys +120 and it wins, you profit $60 (the $50 bonus stake isn’t returned). Repeat with the remaining tokens before they expire to maximize value. FanDuel, DraftKings, and bet365 all offer this type bonus. NFL First-Bet Safety Net Bonus In this offer, you take one swing. If it wins, great—you keep the profit and the promo is done. If it loses, you get bonus bets back. This can be useful for a plus-money side or a bigger confidence play. Let's say you place your first cash wager for $250 on the 49ers -2.5 (-110). If it loses, you’re refunded $250 in bonus bets (often split into five $50 tokens) that expire in about a week; if it wins, there’s no refund and the promo ends. Say you then use one $50 bonus bet on the Ravens +120 and it wins—you profit $60 (the $50 bonus stake isn’t returned). BetMGM, Caesars, Fanatics, and bet365 all offer this bonus. Popular NFL Betting Markets Here are the most popular NFL betting markets you’ll see every week, from simple picks to deeper player angles. Use this quick overview to decide when to play spreads, moneylines, totals, props, same-game parlays, and futures. Moneyline & Point Spreads A moneyline is a bet on which team wins the game outright. Favorites show negative odds (e.g., -170 means risk $170 to win $100), while underdogs show positive odds (e.g., +150 means risk $100 to win $150). A point spread adds a margin the favorite must cover. The favorite is listed with a minus number (e.g., -3.5), and the underdog with a plus number (e.g., +3.5). If the Dolphins are -3.5 vs. the Jets, Miami must win by 4 or more to cover; the Jets cover by winning outright or losing by 3 or fewer. These are the two most popular NFL bets, and odds are shown in American format (like -110 on spreads and totals). Prices move throughout the week based on injuries, weather, lineup news, and betting trends, so timing your wager can matter. Totals (Over/Under) A total (Over/Under) is a bet on the combined points scored by both teams. Sportsbooks set a number, and you choose Over (more than that total) or Under (less than that total). Example: "Over/Under 47.5" means Over wins at 48+ points, Under wins at 47 or fewer. Totals move with factors like offensive and defensive form, pace of play, quarterback and key injuries, weather for outdoor games (wind, rain, extreme cold), matchups in the trenches, and coaching tendencies. Player Props Player props are bets on individual player outcomes rather than the final score. In the NFL, common examples include anytime touchdown scorer (will a player score a TD), quarterback passing yards Over/Under (e.g., Over 259.5), and receptions for a receiver or tight end (e.g., Over 5.5 catches). Same-Game Parlays (SGPs) A same-game parlay (SGP) lets you combine multiple bets from one NFL matchup into a single ticket. They’re appealing because you can personalize a game script and chase higher payouts than a single bet. For example, an Eagles vs. Cowboys SGP might include Eagles moneyline + Jalen Hurts Over 1.5 passing TDs + A.J. Brown 70+ receiving yards; the parlay wins only if all legs hit. Odds are calculated by combining each leg’s price, so payouts climb quickly. Risk also rises with every added leg, since the probability of winning drops as you stack more outcomes. Futures Futures are bets placed on long-term outcomes that settle later in the season. Popular NFL futures include Super Bowl winner, AFC/NFC champions, and season awards like MVP, Offensive/Defensive Player of the Year, and Rookie of the Year. Odds move all year as teams perform, injuries occur, and markets react. Payouts are made only when the market concludes (for example, after the Super Bowl or when an award is officially announced). NFL Betting Sites & Apps FAQ (2026) What is the best NFL betting site in 2026? The best NFL betting site depends on how you like to bet. BetMGM stands out for overall market depth and player props, FanDuel is the easiest app to use, bet365 offers some of the sharpest odds with Early Payouts, and DraftKings delivers the most aggressive NFL promotions. Which sportsbook has the best Super Bowl betting odds? Sportsbooks like bet365, FanDuel, and DraftKings are known for competitive Super Bowl odds, especially on spreads, totals, and alternate lines. Odds can vary by sportsbook, so comparing lines before placing your bet can help you get the best price. Are NFL betting apps legal in the United States? Yes, NFL betting apps are legal in many U.S. states where online sports betting has been regulated. Availability depends on your location, and you must be physically present in a legal state and meet the minimum age requirement (usually 21). What is the best NFL betting app for beginners? FanDuel is often the best choice for beginners thanks to its clean layout, simple betslip, and easy access to spreads, totals, props, and same-game parlays. Caesars is another good option for new bettors who want a straightforward app with fewer distractions. Which sportsbook is best for NFL same-game parlays? DraftKings and FanDuel are the leaders for NFL same-game parlays. DraftKings’ SGP+ allows you to combine bets across multiple games, while FanDuel offers fast, intuitive SGP building directly from game pages. What is an NFL Bet & Get bonus? An NFL Bet & Get bonus lets you place a small qualifying wager (often $5 or $10), then receive bonus bets regardless of whether that bet wins or loses. The bonus bets can be used on future wagers, but typically only the winnings are withdrawable. What is a first-bet safety net or bet insurance? A first-bet safety net refunds your wager with bonus bets if your first bet loses. If the bet wins, you keep the profit and the promotion ends. This type of bonus is common at BetMGM, Caesars, and Fanatics. Which sportsbook is best for live NFL betting? bet365 is widely considered the best sportsbook for live NFL betting due to fast odds updates, deep in-play markets, and Early Payouts. FanDuel and DraftKings also offer strong live betting hubs with frequent cash-out options. Can I bet on Super Bowl player props and novelty bets? Yes. Major sportsbooks offer extensive Super Bowl player props, including passing yards, touchdowns, receptions, and anytime TD scorers. Many also post novelty bets closer to kickoff, such as halftime performance or game-related specials, depending on state rules. Gambling disclaimer: Only individuals aged 21 and over are permitted to gamble. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER. Gambling is subject to local state regulation and is illegal in some states. Please gamble responsibly – information relating to responsible gambling can be found here.

Best Super Bowl Betting Sites & Sportsbook Promos

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 14:38:23 -0400

This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. Football is here! Super Bowl LXI will take place at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California — home of the Los Angeles Rams and Chargers — on Feb. 14, 2027. The Super Bowl is a prime opportunity for sports betting, so it is time to look at the best Super Bowl betting sites. Sports betting is legal in several states via licensed sportsbook. In this guide, we'll cover top Super Bowl betting sites and apps, as well as top sportsbook promos. Best Super Bowl Betting Sites 2026 When it comes to betting on the Super Bowl, there are numerous opportunities available across various sportsbooks, as it is arguably the biggest betting event of the year. Between DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Fanatics, bet365 and Caesars, there’s a betting opportunity for all. New users can also stack promotions across multiple books before deciding which sportsbook best fits their betting style. Don’t settle on just one — claim as many offers as possible to maximize your bonus value, then stick with the book that feels right for you. Here are the best Super Bowl betting sites you can use for 2026. DraftKings Overview Welcome Bonus Why It’s Great for Super Bowl Betting Standout Features Verdict FanDuel Overview Welcome Bonus Why It’s Great for Super Bowl Betting Standout Features Verdict BetMGM Overview Welcome Bonus Why It’s Great for Super Bowl Betting Standout Features Verdict Fanatics Sportsbook Overview Welcome Bonus Why It’s Great for Super Bowl Betting Standout Features Verdict bet365 Overview Welcome Bonus Minimum $10 deposit required. Minimum odds -500 of greater. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns. New customers only. T&CS, time limits and exclusions apply. Why It’s Great for Super Bowl Betting Standout Features Verdict Caesars Overview Welcome Bonus Why It’s Great for Super Bowl Betting Standout Features Verdict Best Super Bowl Betting Promos & Welcome Offers Like with many websites in general, there are incentives just for signing up. If you create accounts at these popular sports gambling sites, usually you will get some form of welcome offer. Let's check out the options. DraftKings: Bet $5, Get $200 Instantly New DraftKings customers can bet $5 and get $200 instantly. The instant credit gives you immediate flexibility, and adds strong football-season value. Deposit at least $10, place a $5 qualifying wager (minimum odds often -500 or longer), and the bonus bets arrive right away. This is a Bet & Get offer; bonus bets typically expire in 7 days and only winnings are withdrawable. FanDuel: Bet $5 Get $200 in Bet Reset Tokens for 5 Days Place a $5+ wager each day for five straight days to unlock a Bet Reset Token per day. No promo code is required. With up to $1,000 in Bet Reset Tokens available, this offer gives new users five days of built-in protection on small daily wagers, with up to $200 back in Bonus Bets per losing bet. Once you create and verify a FanDuel account, deposit at least $5, and complete your daily $5+ wagers, you’ll receive your Bet Reset Tokens. Bonus Bets are credited if your wager loses and can be used across most sportsbook markets, with only winnings from Bonus Bet wagers being withdrawable since the Bonus Bet stake is not returned. BetMGM: First Bet Offer up to $1,500 paid back in Bonus Bets if your first wager loses With BetMGM, your first wager is protected up to $1,500 with promo code FOXSPORTS. If it loses, BetMGM refunds you in bonus bets. No promo code is required in-app. This "safety net" is ideal if you want to take a bigger first swing with less downside. Deposit at least $10, place your first cash bet of $10+, and if it loses you’ll get a refund in bonus bets (bets $50+ are typically split into five equal tokens; <$50 returns as one token). This is a First-Bet Safety Net; bonus bets usually expire in 7 days and only winnings are withdrawable. bet365: Bet $10, Get $150 in Bonus Bets (win or lose) Bet365’s welcome is simple: wager $10 and get $150 in Bonus Bets, win or lose with promo code FOX365. The low qualifier and outcome-independent credit make this one of the easiest ways to get started. Deposit $10+ and place a $10+ qualifying bet to unlock the bonus after settlement. This is a Bet & Get offer; bonus bets typically expire in 7 days, only the winnings can be withdrawn, and a minimum-odds requirement applies (often -500 or longer). Fanatics: Get a 100% bet match up to $100 in FanCash for 10 days with promo code FOX2026 Fanatics often runs Bet & Get structured promotions, such as a daily match on bets (e.g. Get a 100% bet match up to $100 in FanCash for 10 days.)— though the specific Indiana offer must be confirmed. Sign up today. Caesars: Bet $1, Double Your Winnings Your Next 10 Wagers with Code 'FOXDYW' The Caesars Sportsbook promo code FOXDYW allows new users to bet $1 and double their winnings on their next 10 wagers with 10 × 100% Profit Boost tokens. Check it out here. Popular Super Bowl Betting Markets There are multiple ways to bet on the Super Bowl that involve the score of the game, player statistics and even Gatorade bath color. Let's take a look at a few major betting markets. Moneyline & Point Spread A moneyline bet is the simplest form of wagering — you’re just picking which side will win the game outright, disregarding the score. The odds determine how much money you will make. Heading into the Super Bowl, there will be a favorite and an underdog. A heavy favorite might only return a small profit, while backing the underdog can lead to more money if they pull off the upset. The point spread is the expected final score difference between two teams. If the spread is 3 points, you'll see that as both -3 and +3. The team that is favored to win the Super Bowl gets the minus-number (-3); the underdog gets the plus-number (+3). If the favorite is -3, that means it must win by more than three points to cover the spread. If the underdog is +3, that means it must lose by fewer than three points or win outright to cover the spread. Totals (Over/Under) An Over/Under bet, also called a total, is a wager on the combined number of points, runs, or goals scored in a game. So for the Super Bowl, the sportsbook sets a line, and bettors choose whether the final score will go over (more than the posted total) or under (less than the posted total). Player Props A player prop bet is a wager on an outcome other than the final score, like player stats in the Super Bowl. Examples include: Same-Game Parlays (SGPs) A same-game parlay (SGP) is a wager in which you bet on multiple outcomes occurring from one specific game. Unlike a traditional parlay, SGPs focus solely on events within this one specific game, such as the Super Bowl. A bettor could wager on the moneyline, spread and how many passing TDs for a quarterback in the Super Bowl on a single betting slip. Novelty Props Novelty props are wagers that don't always relate directly to the outcome of the game. Examples include: Super Bowl Live Betting Sites Live betting (also called in-play betting) is just that: instead of betting before the game, you are actually gambling as the game is going on. This kind of gambling is prominent in the Super Bowl because of the high viewership, frequent stoppages, and dynamic odds changes. Examples of live betting include wagering on the next scoring play, updated point spreads, or quarter/half totals. The benefits of live betting include reacting to game flow, hedging and capitalizing on momentum shifts, and potential drawbacks include fast-moving odds and risk of impulsive bets. Gambling disclaimer: Only individuals aged 21 and over are permitted to gamble. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER. Gambling is subject to local state regulation and is illegal in some states. Please gamble responsibly – information relating to responsible gambling can be found here.

Former Tennessee Titans Star Chris Johnson Reveals He Has ALS

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 12:20:06 -0400

Chris Johnson, one of nine players in NFL history to rush for more than 2,000 yards in a season who made the Pro Bowl in each of his first three years with the Tennessee Titans, revealed in a television interview aired Monday that he has ALS. Johnson, 40, spent 10 seasons in the league and last played in 2017 for the Arizona Cardinals. He said on ABC's "Good Morning America" that he was diagnosed with the fatal nervous system disease last year. "Honestly, I don’t know if you really fully process it," he said, using his eyes to communicate through a computerized speech-generating device during the interview with Michael Strahan. "At first, you’re in shock. Then, you realize you have two choices: You can give up, or you can fight. I chose to fight." Johnson, a first-round draft pick out of East Carolina in 2008, rushed for 7,965 yards over six seasons with the Titans. The native of Orlando, Florida, had 2,006 yards in 2009 to earn the nickname "CJ2K" and ingratiate himself with the Tennessee fan base. Titans owner Amy Adams Strunk, in a statement released Monday, said the organization is holding Johnson, his wife and four children close. "Some people leave a mark on an organization that you just can’t put into words. Chris Johnson is one of those people for us. His leadership on the field, in addition to his impact in the locker room and Nashville community have written him permanently into the story of this franchise," Adams Strunk said. "Learning this news is extremely difficult, and we will support Chris every step of the way throughout his journey." ALS, which is an acronym for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and is commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a neurodegenerative condition that affects nerve cell communication with muscles throughout the body. The disease leads to muscle weakness and can cause deterioration of the ability to move, speak and breathe. Tim Shaw, who had a six-year career as a linebacker in the NFL and was a teammate of Johnson's with the Titans from 2010-12, was diagnosed in 2014 at age 30 with ALS and is still alive. Johnson, who also played one season for the New York Jets, first noticed weakness in his right hand and trouble with his grip. He was still working out daily a year ago. Now he can't hold a cup or speak on his own. "Your mind stays sharp. People sometimes look at a person with a physical disability and assume you’re still not the same person inside," Johnson said. "I still think the same. I still dream. I still love my family. My body just doesn’t cooperate." Johnson was joined for the interview by his wife, Brittany, who has become his primary caregiver. "She hasn’t left my side through any of this. My kids are also a huge part of why I keep going," Johnson said. "Every day I wake up wanting more time with them to make more memories and just be their dad. They give me a reason to keep fighting." Johnson has been participating in experimental treatments with the goal of extending his life and helping the medical field move closer to a cure for the disease. "If it helps even one person get diagnosed sooner, inspires more research or gives another family hope," he said, "then it's worth it." Reporting by The Associated Press.

NFL Releases Dates, Details For 2027 NFL Draft At Washington, D.C. National Mall

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 15:06:38 -0400

The NFL announced dates and details on Thursday for the 2027 NFL Draft to be held in Washington, D.C. The three-day draft will begin on Thursday, April 29 and continue through Saturday, May 1. On May 5, 2025, President Donald Trump announced the 2027 draft would be staged at the nation’s capital on the National Mall. Trump was joined in the Oval Office by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, Washington Commanders controlling owner Josh Harris and D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser when he announced initial plans for the draft. On Thursday, the NFL revealed the draft will take place across iconic locations throughout Washington, D.C. The National Mall will anchor the draft theater in front of the Capitol. The NFL Draft Experience will span Pennsylvania Avenue between 3rd and 7th Streets. Additional event elements will be situated throughout the footprint surrounding the National Mall. "Our nation’s capital will provide an incredible, iconically American stage to host fans from around the world, as we celebrate the next generation of NFL stars," said Peter O’Reilly, NFL executive vice president of club business, international and global events, in a statement. The NFL said there will be a variety of free activities available for fans in the three-day event, including interactive games, immersive exhibits and photos with the Vince Lombardi Trophy. The league said this year's draft in Pittsburgh set an attendance record, drawing more than 805,000 fans. The NFL said more than 600,000 fans attended the 2025 draft in Green Bay. Washington last hosted the draft in 1941 at the Willard Hotel. The NFL draft was a fixture at Radio City Music Hall in New York before it began moving to other locations in 2015. The 2028 NFL Draft will be held in Minneapolis. Reporting by The Associated Press.

Alex Freeman Headlines Kids Of Former NFL Players Making Their Names In Other Sports

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 13:57:49 -0400

While seeing second-generation NFL players isn’t uncommon, several former players have children starring at the highest level in sports other than football. Look no further than the event of the summer, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and this week's NBA Draft. Here are some of the most accomplished current athletes in the pro sports ranks with NFL bloodlines: Alex Freeman scored the second goal in Team USA’s 2-0 win Sunday over Australia in group stage play at the World Cup, where the Americans have clinched Group D and will advance to the knockout round. The U.S. faces Türkiye in their final group-stage match Thursday (10 p.m. ET on FOX). At age 21, Freeman is the youngest player representing Team USA this year. He plays his club ball for Villarreal in La Liga, the highest level league in Spain. The elder Freeman, Antonio Freeman, played nine seasons as a wide receiver in the NFL, winning a Super Bowl with the Green Bay Packers in 1996. He was a first-team All-Pro selection in 1998. Haley, 27, is a standout for Brighton & Hove Albion in the English Women’s Super League, the most competitive tier of women's soccer in England. She starred collegiately at Stanford and was drafted seventh overall by the Chicago Red Stars in the 2021 NWSL Draft, though she never played for the team. She helped Sydney FC win the Australian League title in 2023 before joining Brighton. Madison's father, Charles Haley, is a Pro Football Hall of Famer. He won five Super Bowls and was twice named an All-Pro edge rusher in his 13 NFL seasons with the San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys. Joshua Jefferson was selected in the first round of the NBA Draft on Tuesday, taken at No. 28 overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves, who sent him to Brooklyn in a pre-arranged trade. A 6-foot-8 forward, Jefferson averaged 16.4 points, 7.4 rebounds and 4.8 assists for Iowa State last season. Ben Jefferson was a 6-foot-8, 300-plus-pound guard at Maryland in the 1980s. As a freshman in 1985, he was highlighted by Sports Illustrated as one of the biggest players in college football. He went undrafted out of college but had stints with a few NFL teams, making all four of his career appearances in 1990 with the Cleveland Browns. Koa Peat, who starred for Arizona as a freshman last season, was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks with the 30th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft — a selection that was traded to Phoenix. A 6-foot-8 forward, Peat averaged 14.1 points and 5.6 rebounds for an Arizona team that made the Final Four. Todd Peat Sr. was an 11th round pick of the St. Louis Cardinals in the 1987 NFL Draft, making 79 appearances as a guard across six seasons with the Cardinals and Raiders. Koa's brother, Andrus Peat, is an 11-year NFL veteran and three-time Pro Bowl guard, most recently appearing in six games with the Pittsburgh Steelers last season. Longtime pro tennis player Sloane Stephens has been ranked as high as the world No. 3 in singles by the Women’s Tennis Association. She has won eight singles titles as a pro, including the 2017 U.S. Open. Her father, John Stephens, was a first-round pick of the New England Patriots in 1988 and a Pro Bowl running back as a rookie. He played six total seasons, with the Patriots, Green Bay Packers and Kansas City Chiefs. Jaxson Hayes was selected eighth overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, and the 7-foot center has played eight seasons and counting with the New Orleans Pelicans and Los Angeles Lakers. His best season to date came in 2021-22, when he averaged 9.3 points and 4.5 rebounds for the Pelicans. Jaxson's father, tight end Jonathan Hayes, was a second-round pick in the 1985 NFL Draft by the Chiefs and appeared in 184 games across 12 seasons. The elder Hayes is a former tight ends coach for the Cincinnati Bengals (2003-18) and served as the head coach and general manager of the St. Louis Battlehawks in 2020. Vashti Cunningham is a three-time Olympian for Team USA in the high jump, finishing fifth in the Paris Games in 2024. The 28-year-old has medaled twice in the World Championships, winning gold in 2016 and silver in 2018. Randall Cunningham, a second-round pick of the Philadelphia Eagles in 1985, was a four-time Pro Bowl quarterback in his 16 seasons with the Eagles, Minnesota Vikings, Dallas Cowboys and Baltimore Ravens. Elijah Green was selected fifth overall in the 2022 MLB Draft after starring at IMG Academy in Florida. He’s hit 10 home runs in his first 62 games this season for the Wilmington Blue Rocks, the Nationals’ High-A affiliate. His father, Eric Green, was picked 21st overall in the 1990 NFL Draft by the Steelers. He played nine seasons in the league and was twice named to the Pro Bowl as a tight end.

Steelers Rookie Drew Allar Embracing Understudy Role Behind Aaron Rodgers

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 12:45:47 -0400

LOS ANGELES — Drew Allar might be new to the NFL, but his first professional home provides him with some familiarity. Allar will get to back up Aaron Rodgers, a quarterback he looked up to growing up. But he's also joining an offensive system that he already knows with the Pittsburgh Steelers, believing the team that selected him in the third round of April's draft has created a "full circle moment" for him. "The West Coast offense in general was something I studied a lot in the offseasons at Penn State," Allar told me during a conversation this offseason at the NFLPA Rookie Premiere. "Kind of the newer versions like the [Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean] McVay and [San Francisco 49ers head coach] Mike Shanahan. I was on that trend for the last four years. "But it’s now kind of a full circle moment for me, going back and seeing how everything really started. Why the drops are a certain way and how they match up with the progressions. And where the concepts originated from. It’s really cool to be a part of that. It’s a lot of information, but it’s starting to slow down for me." And, as Allar mentioned, he will now get to learn from one of the innovators of the West Coast offense: Mike McCarthy. The new Steelers head coach learned from the originators of the scheme during his time as an assistant coach with the Kansas City Chiefs, including Paul Hackett. Hackett cut his teeth in San Francisco, learning from Bill Walsh, the originator of the West Coast offense. McCarthy would go on to coach Joe Montana in Kansas City before coaching Brett Favre and Rodgers with the Green Bay Packers. He also worked under another Walsh protégé, offensive guru Mike Holmgren. McCarthy has been reunited with Rodgers in Pittsburgh, and Allar said he’s privileged to share a quarterback room with the future Hall of Famer. "I’m really excited to learn from him," Allar told me. "With him being in Coach McCarthy’s system in Green Bay, it’s beneficial because he knows the system inside and out, even though he hasn’t played in it in five or six years at this point. And just everything he’s going through in his career, playing in tens of thousands of snaps, how much experience and knowledge he has — the nuances of playing the position of quarterback, reading coverages, the defensive tendencies — any little thing I can pick up to help me process faster and be more accurate, I’m all in for it." Allar didn’t always play quarterback. His father, Kevin, was Allar’s youth football coach, and as one of the bigger kids on the team, Allar was relegated to playing tight end, fullback, defensive end and linebacker during his early days of tackle football. But the chance to play quarterback full-time emerged in Allar’s first year in high school. "We didn’t have a quarterback my freshman year, and then I always loved throwing from baseball, so I just wanted to try it out," Allar told me. Allar blossomed into a five-star college recruit at Medina High School, a half hour south of Cleveland. During his senior season, Allar totaled 4,444 passing yards and 48 passing touchdowns. He also recorded 406 rushing yards and nine rushing touchdowns. Allar helped to lead Medina to a 13-1 record, earning All-State honors. Allar was also named Mr. Football in Ohio. "High school was fun," Allar told me. "We were five wide and just throwing the ball every time. We were kind of a no-huddle, up-tempo offense. When we got to my senior year, [head coach Larry Laird] was very lenient with me. I probably called like 20 to 30% of the plays at the line of scrimmage my senior year. And that was always in working collaboration with him." Considered a first-round pick at the start of the year, Allar didn’t perform as expected and his final season at Penn State was cut short because of an ankle injury. At 6-foot-5 and 228 pounds and blessed with good movement skills, Allar showed glimpses of developing into an NFL-caliber quarterback, but remains a work in progress in the pros. It will be up to McCarthy and an experienced offensive coaching staff led by offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio and quarterbacks coach Tom Arth to develop Allar’s unique skill set. "I believe in first impressions," McCarthy said about Allar in Pittsburgh’s post-draft press conference with reporters. I had a chance to not only watch him play but meet him at the combine. … I like everything about him. I think he’s got room for growth. He’s a young man that can throw the ball with the best of them, and that’s a great starting point to have." That’s high praise from McCarthy, but an opinion not necessarily shared by an NFL quarterback evaluator I spoke with about Allar. "I think it was a little bit of a surprise pick in the third round, given his production in college," the NFL talent evaluator told me. "He’s got all the physical tools. He’s kind of like a create-a-player in Madden. He’s 6-5 and 230. He can throw the ball a mile. He’s got a very pretty spiral. He’s a guy that scouts absolutely love, but I think the disconnect is you’ve got to become someone who coaches absolutely love in terms of decision-making, timing and accuracy. "I would say he’s a project. In my opinion, he’s got a long way to go. They’re investing in him as a guy that two years from now could have major upside. He’s got the prettiest deep ball on the planet, but I think most coaches would tell you, ‘Yeah, that’s great, but it’s second-and-10, and you overthrew the guy by five yards.’" For the past year, Allar’s worked with John Beck and 3DQB here in Southern California during the offseason to prepare him for the league. Beck also worked with another former McCarthy quarterback in Dak Prescott. Allar said Beck helped to improve his footwork, getting him in better throwing positions. Currently, Allar is No. 4 on the depth chart behind Rodgers, Mason Rudolph and Will Howard, who the Steelers took in the sixth round of last year's draft. But he’s willing to be patient, work on his craft and try to live up to lofty expectations, playing behind one of the best to ever do it in Rodgers. "It’s really just taking it a day at a time," Allar told me. "They do a great job of building it out throughout practice with the quarterback in individual drills. They do a great job of emphasizing things throughout each day, just so I can get that foundation, because the footwork is a little different than what I’m used to. "We were under center a little bit at Penn State, but not in the drop-back game. It was more run game and play-action game. So, just getting cleaner with under-center drops and drop-back footwork. And just really trying to pick up on the nuances of it. Just some different teaching, and it’s really cool to be a part of that. And kind of have another chapter to learn from and grow from. I already feel a lot more comfortable in it, and I know I’ve just got to keep my head down and keep working at it."

Lions CB Terrion Arnold Arrested on Felony Kidnapping and Robbery Charges in Florida

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 01:19:44 -0400

Detroit Lions player Terrion Arnold has been arrested in connection to a kidnapping and robbery in Florida and faces felony charges, officials said Wednesday. Arnold is accused of being the "primary conspirator" before three men in their late teens were held at gunpoint, battered and pistol-whipped in February in Tampa, the city's police department said in a statement. Some of their belongings were stolen, police said. Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office said on X that Arnold faces felony charges, although the specific charges were not immediately clear. Tampa police had already arrested six others suspected of being part of the targeted armed robbery. Denise White, CEO of EAG Sports Management, which represents Arnold, said he denies being involved. "There is no credible evidence linking Mr. Arnold to these allegations," White said in a statement. "Instead, the government appears to be relying on testimony from multiple convicted felons who have admitted their own involvement and may have substantial incentives to shift blame in an effort to lessen their sentences." In early February, Arnold and a few of his friends had reported more than $250,000 worth of their property being stolen from an Airbnb in Largo, police said. Arnold believed that two men in their late teens had been behind it, although investigators later determined this was not the case, police said. Arnold and his friends worked to get the men, along with another, to an apartment on Feb. 4, police said. Initially, two of Arnold’s friends held them at gunpoint and hit them, while another streamed it to Arnold, police said. Later, when the assault was still going on, Arnold also came to the apartment, police said. His other friends stole some of the victims’ belongings, police said. The victims reported the robbery to police. Arnold is a starting cornerback for the Detroit Lions who was a first round pick in the 2024 draft after playing at the University of Alabama. He is from Florida. The Lions said in a statement Wednesday night that they were aware of the situation but would not be commenting at this time. Arnold turned himself in to law enforcement on Wednesday. He is expected to make his first appearance in Hillsborough County court Thursday afternoon, the attorney’s office said. Reporting by the Associated Press.

Brandon Aiyuk Says He’ll Sign With Commanders Immediately If 49ers Release Him

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 21:20:22 -0400

Disgruntled receiver Brandon Aiyuk said he would sign immediately with the Washington Commanders if the San Francisco 49ers grant his wish and release him. Aiyuk is currently on the reserve/left squad list after he stopped showing up late last season as he rehabilitates a knee injury that has sidelined him since October 2024. Aiyuk wants to be released, but the Niners have shown no urgency to make a move even though general manager John Lynch has said he doesn’t expect Aiyuk to play for the team again. "Tell them boys cut me today and I’ll sign with the Commanders tomorrow," Aiyuk said on social media Wednesday. The Commanders haven't commented on Aiyuk's status while he remains under contract to San Francisco and haven't indicated that they would sign him if he becomes available. Aiyuk signed a four-year, $120 million extension with San Francisco just before the start of the 2024 season following a lengthy contract "hold in" that kept him out of practice that summer. Aiyuk played seven games and caught 25 passes that season before going down with a season-ending knee injury and the acrimony between the sides only increased. The 49ers voided $27 million guaranteed in Aiyuk’s contract for 2026 last summer because he failed to participate in meetings and other team activities. Aiyuk then left the team late in the season and has not talked to coach Kyle Shanahan or Lynch since then, communicating only through social media messages, calling the team "stupid" for paying him so much money. Aiyuk could put pressure on the 49ers to make a decision if he shows up when the 49ers report to training camp on July 25. Until he reports, the 49ers can keep him on the reserve list without him counting to the salary cap or the roster limits. Aiyuk has three years remaining on the four-year, $120 million extension he signed last year, including a nearly $25 million option bonus due before the start of this season. But he now has no guaranteed money remaining and won’t be owed anything unless he reports to the team. The 28-year-old Aiyuk has 294 catches for 4,305 yards and 25 TDs since being drafted in the first round in 2020. Aiyuk recently had an arrest warrant issued by Santa Clara County on a misdemeanor charge of exhibition of speeding in response to a video Aiyuk posted to social media last December that appeared to show him speeding on the road in front of Levi’s Stadium. Reporting by the Associated Press.