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Thuc Nhi Nguyen: Collin Sexton in position to make his Lakers debut after being removed from the injury report for tomorrow's game against the Clippers. Jake LaRavia is questionable after spraining his right ankle in the fourth quarter Wednesday. Cam Carr and Adou Thieor still out.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Collin Sexton in position to make his Lakers debut …

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Joshua Palmer. Getty

The Buffalo Bills have serious defensive issues to address — trading one struggling but talented offensive player might help.

Fox Sports put veteran Bills wide receiver Josh Palmer on its list of the NFL’s “Top Trade Candidates” heading into Week 7, just a few weeks from the NFL’s trade deadline on November 10.

“The Bills acquired Palmer with high hopes for what he could do in the offense, but basically everyone else has emerged while he has not,” Fox Sports NFL reporter Henry McKenna wrote on X. “D.J. Moore is a crucial piece when healthy. Keon Coleman is finally emerging. Khalil Shakir is steady Eddie. And rookie Skyler Bell might soon earn playing time. That makes Palmer expendable.”

Bills Drastically Overpaid for WR Josh Palmer

The Bills drastically overvalued Palmer in free agency before the 2025 season, signing him to a 3-year, $30 million contract. Palmer responded with his worst season yet — 33 receptions for 304 yards and no touchdowns, while missing 5 games with injuries.

Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox petitioned for the Bills to try to deal Palmer this offseason.

“While it’s worth noting that (Palmer) was limited by ankle and knee injuries, his production left plenty to be desired,” Knox wrote on August 10. “While Buffalo couldn’t reasonably expect a big return for Palmer in a trade, it could get something from a receiver-needy team to go with some valuable cap savings. The Bills have just over $10 million in cap space, and they could save $10.2 million in cap room by trading Palmer.”

While the Bills might usually try to get a Day 3 pick back for Palmer, they might want to see if they can swing a defensive starter in return — hopefully a cornerback.

Josh Palmer: Rare Canadian to Make NFL Roster

Palmer, 6-foot-1 and 210 pounds, is the rare Canadian to make an NFL roster.

He starred in high school in Ontario before transferring to high school football powerhouse St. Thomas Aquinas in Fort Lauderdale, Florida — the same school that produced Michael Irvin, Joey Bosa, and Nick Bosa — for his final 2 seasons.

Palmer was a 3-star recruit and landed at Tennessee, where he seemed on the verge of stardom until the pandemic shortened his senior season to 9 games in 2020.

 In 4 seasons, Palmer never had more than 500 receiving yards in a single year, but was still drafted in the 3rd round (No. 77 overall) by the Los Angeles Chargers in the 2021 NFL Draft.

Palmer proved he could be a reliable WR2 over his first 4 seasons behind Chargers star Keenan Allen, including a career-high 72 receptions for 769 yards in 2022.

Over 4 seasons, Palmer averaged 51 receptions for 571 yards and scored 10 total touchdowns. Those are respectable numbers for a WR3 — even more so for Palmer, given that he missed 9 games due to injuries in 2023 and 2024.

This article was originally published on HEAVY

The post ‘Expendable’ Buffalo Bills WR Named NFL’s Top Trade Candidate appeared first on HEAVY.

Julius Randle impressed in his Brooklyn Nets debut on Wednesday against the Charlotte Hornets, becoming the fifth player in team history to record a 20-5-5 stat line.

Randle joined Seth Curry (Feb. 14, 2022), James Harden (Jan. 16, 2021), Kyrie Irving (Oct. 23, 2019) and Orlando Woolridge (Oct. 31, 1986). He's in elite company with Harden and Irving, who were part of the most lethal trio with Kevin Durant in the early 2020s.

The 12-year veteran led all scorers with 33 points on 11-for-18 shooting, eight rebounds, seven assists and one steal. Charlotte's defenders struggled with Randle's physicality, as he shot 11 free throws.

His performance proves he can raise the team's floor, but the talent around him needs to come together. Michael Porter Jr. ended with 26 points and seven rebounds, the only other Net to score in double figures.

They've built strong chemistry in a few months since Brooklyn traded for the 6-foot-9 forward. Porter scored five of his points from two Randle assists.

Randle believed their games would complement each other. His statement holds strong after four games together.

He said he can do a lot with the ball, and Porter is a great catch-and-shoot shooter. The 6-foot-10 marksman shot 5-for-11 from three against the Hornets.

Randle is a solid passer, and he took that leap in his second season with the New York Knicks. In his first season (2019-20), he averaged 3.1 assists, then ballooned to a career-high six in the following season.

Since the 2020-21 season, the 12-year veteran has hovered around four or more assists. His passing, paired with his scoring ability in isolation, can make him difficult to guard, especially when shooters surround him.

While the veterans raised the team's floor, the youth didn't carry their weight. The Nets' young core combined for 37 points, with Noah Clowney leading with nine points on perfect shooting.

Brooklyn's youth is key to success. The team has several players on rookie-scale contracts, like Egor Dëmin and Mikel Brown Jr.

Brown made his rookie debut coming off the bench. Coach Jordi Fernández put the first-round pick on a 24-minute restriction after he nursed a left ankle sprain throughout preseason.

He scored six points on 2-for-8 shooting.

Brooklyn lost to a short-handed Charlotte squad missing Coby White and Kon Knueppel. Randle and Porter will face a tough challenge against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Saturday at Rocket Arena.

Los Angeles Clippers rookie No. 5 overall pick Keaton Wagler lived up to his Draft stock in his NBA debut Wednesday. 

The Clippers defeated the Sacramento Kings 121-96 at Intuit Dome in their campaign curtain-raiser, with Wagler contributing heavily off the bench. He posted a 15-point, 5-rebound, 5-assist line in 29 minutes — shooting 3-for-6 from deep — drawing league-wide praise afterward. 

Wagler's teammate, star point guard Darius Garland — who led the Clips in scoring with 30 points — however, was not surprised by the Illinois product's performance. 

"He's been working his butt off, literally," Garland said about Wagler. "He's been in the gym every day. His confidence is growing [through] the roof. All we've been telling him is to keep his confidence high. We got his back no matter what." 

Good Vet Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Garland is uniquely positioned to mentor Wagler, despite being only 26, as a fellow former No. 5 pick. 

Garland was excluded from both NBA All-Rookie teams in 2019 after averaging 12.3 points and 3.9 assists per game with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He has since become a two-time All-Star. He assured that the Clippers will not let Wagler get too low at any point during his freshman year in the league. 

"He's gonna take lumps," Garland said. "That's what happens in a rookie year. We're right behind him. We're gonna stick behind him. Gonna have his back through all the trials and tribulations... His confidence is sky-high right now. You saw it today. It was really good." 

Though they didn't start together on opening night, head coach Ty Lue may pair the dynamic duo soon. 

The Clippers will be hoping they can form a backcourt for the present and the future — especially since the franchise will be without a first-round pick for the next five years. 

Nice PairingKiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

On paper, Garland and Wagler can work well together. 

In the opener against the Kings, Garland started aggressively, looking to score before getting his teammates involved in the second half. If he can do that consistently, that bodes well for a capable secondary playmaker like Wagler against looser defenses. 

Wagler is already showing do-it-all guard capabilities and could one day be a walking triple-double. He has good size and is a willing rebounder and passer. The scoring aspect goes without saying. 

They could soon be a matchup nightmare for opposing backcourts. 

Wagler has grown a lot since averaging 18 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in four Summer League games in July. The confidence is glaring. He often looked timid in Las Vegas, despite what his scoring tallies may suggest. He was hesitant to go get his. 

On Wednesday, he looked like a different player. One who knew he belonged on an NBA hardwood. 

The 50 percent efficiency from three-point range was even better than the 39.7 percent he shot in college. The 4-for-4 at the free-throw line was pleasing. The two steals were a bonus, and just one turnover is a great way to start building ball-handling trust with Lue. 

Packers tight end Luke Musgrave. Getty(Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) Getty

The Green Bay Packers have not seen Luke Musgrave on an NFL field in 2026. Based on the comments Matt LaFleur made in his press conference, the odds of Musgrave suiting up this season are low.

“It’s tough to say right now,” LaFleur said when asked if Musgrave would play at all this year.  “Until proven otherwise, I would say no. But I would never close the door on that.”

He did not want to say that Musgrave could not recover faster than the expected timeline. However, all odds are that he is going to miss the season.

Musgrave suffered a neck injury in offseason workouts and has not seen the field since. The specifics of the injury have not been reported.

Green Bay Packers Expected to Miss Luke Musgrave for Entire 2026 SeasonGetty(Luke Musgrave)

Injuries have been the story for the former 42nd overall pick, who went ahead of Tucker Kraft in the same draft. Musgrave suffered a lacerated kidney in 2023 and only played in nine games. He finished his rookie season with 34 receptions for 352 yards and a touchdown.

It was ankle issues that hurt his chances of seeing the field in 2024. Musgrave had just three starts in seven games of being active. He had just seven receptions for 45 yards.

Musgrave was mostly healthy in 2025, but the team could not find ways to get him more involved on offense. He finished with 24 catches for 252 yards. He is in the last year of his rookie contract and will be a free agent after the year.

The team did not try to extend him after a disappointing start to his career, and a season-ending injury in a prove-it season is not going to make them any more comfortable. He may have already played his last down with the Packers.

Packers Tight End Room Has Filled Out

Despite missing on Musgrave, the Packers tight end room still looks strong. Kradt was drafted 78th in 2023 and just signed a massive extension. The Packers signed Jonnu Smith when it was clear that Musgrave would not be back. He is a reliable veteran, even though he has just five catches for 85 yards.

Their third tight end is Mark Redman, who makes a bigger impact than Smith. He is primarily a run blocker. With the Packers’ offensive line struggles, he has made a huge difference in the Packers’ running game.

They also have Josh Whyle as their fourth tight end. Last year, he was competing as the number two due to injuries in the room. So, they got Kraft healthy, and they are much deeper.

Losing Musgrave for the entire season is not a good development, but the team has not been lacking his presence. He could push Smith out if he returned and looked healthy.

This article was originally published on HEAVY

The post Matt LaFleur Has Grim Outlook on Packers Former 2nd-Rounder appeared first on HEAVY.

Nashville Predators celebrating a goal against the Minnesota Wild on October 1, 2026. Getty

After missing the last four games, Nashville Predators forward Mavrik Bourque will be back in the lineup.

The Nashville Predators open a quick two-game road trip tonight against the Boston Bruins. They’ll play the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday before returning to Tennessee for a five-game homestand.

Head coach Andrew Brunette said on Wednesday, before leaving for Boston, that he was hopeful that Bourque would be back soon. He didn’t guarantee the center would return right after practice, but now Brunette will have a good piece back in the lineup.

“We’re excited to get him back if he’s ready,” coach Andrew Brunette said after practice.

Bourque has just one assist so far in his time with the Nashville Predators. It’s expected that he will be playing between Jonathan Marchessault and Alexander Kerfoot versus the Bruins.

Bourque is hopeful to get going offensively

Settling into a new team and city can take some time, and the same goes for Mavrik Bourque

Now that he’s back with the Predators after suffering an upper-body injury against the Montreal Canadiens, Bourque is aiming to find a groove with his new teammates.

“If I can get back out there and find something similar with (Marchessault) and (Kerfoot), just create some chemistry, it will make (the offense) a little easier,” Bourque said.

The 24-year-old also said that coming back from his injury took ‘more time than I was expecting,’ and was hopeful to be back for tonight’s game.

Last season in Dallas, Bourque had just two points through his first four games. He began to find his game in November and December as he scored 10 points in 29 games. In January last season, Bourque’s season began to take off as he picked up 8 points in 15 games.

From February to April, to close out the 2025-26 campaign, Bourque had 20 points in 27 games for the Stars. He had 10 even-strength goals over this stretch, which helped Dallas reach the postseason.

Now Bourque is poised to jump into the lineup and make more of a difference in Nashville.

Lyubushkin could make Predators debut in Boston

Defenseman Ilya Lyubushkin may be making his Nashville Predators debut tonight in Boston. He was seen skating with defenseman Brady Skjei at Wednesday’s practice during line rushes and a handful of drills.

Lyusbushkin was part of the trade that sent Mavrik Bourque to the Nashville Predators this summer. The Russian defender has not played through the opening 8 games and will be looking to make an impression out of the gate.

The Predators have depth on the blue line right now but are still trying to sort out who will belong in the long-term plan.

Lyubushkin cleared waivers alongside Nick Perbix on September 28, so any team that was interested in him could have already decided to add him for free.

One thing to keep in mind for Lyubushkin and Perbix is that once a player has skated in 10 games or been rostered for 30 days, whichever comes first. These players would have to go back on waivers if the intent was to be assigned to the AHL, or see if any other team could claim the player.

Perbix has played in 8 games and is getting close to the 10-game mark. Both his and Lyubushkin’s clocks will reset for waivers on October 28.

Expected Nashville Predators Lineup vs. Boston Bruins

Line rushes from Wednesday’s practice in Nashville.

Forsberg – O’Reilly – Stamkos
Colton – Wood – Hoglander
Kerfoot – Bourque – Marchessault
Schaefer – Drury – Edstrom

*Vitali Pinchuk: did not rush

Josi – Wilsby
Skjei – Lyubushkin
Hague – Struble

*Extra D-men: Ahcan & Perbix

Follow Nick Kieser on Twitter/X: @KieserNick

This article was originally published on HEAVY

The post Nashville Predators Lineup Change Before Faceoff in Boston appeared first on HEAVY.

Rip your Yahoo Fantasy x Arena Club slab packs today!

Rip your exclusive Yahoo Fantasy and Arena Club slab pack here

The NFL is back and so are the Yahoo Fantasy x Arena Club Slab Packs!

Loaded with top performers and fantasy stars, the Yahoo Fantasy x Arena Club Slab packs will be available each week during the regular season for collectors and fans to digitally rip.

For those new to Arena Club, it is a new way of collecting. As the premier tech-powered marketplace and grading platform, Arena Club brings the physical experience of card collecting into the digital age. Users can purchase and open virtual packs of real, pre-graded cards ("slabs"), buy and sell on the marketplace and manage their card showrooms all in one place. Each Arena Club Slab Pack displays the full lineup of potential cards and the likelihood of ripping each.

Yahoo Fantasy Slab Packs contain graded NFL trading cards curated by Arena Club. Fans can purchase a slab pack, each containing a graded card of an NFL player, via the Arena Club platform. The packs will feature "Chase Cards" of the top fantasy football performers of the week across the QB, RB, WR and TE positions. These "Chase Cards" are the rarest, most valuable cards in the Yahoo Fantasy Slab Packs, worth up to 3-4x the price of the pack. 

With the 2026 season in full swing, the Yahoo Fantasy Slab Packs will go on sale on at kickoff of the Patriots-Bears game (8:15 p.m. ET, Thursday) and be available until the conclusion of the Monday night game (or until they sell out) every week through the end of the season. With Gold ($200) and Silver ($70) tiers available, it's the perfect way to start your fantasy week.

You can head to ArenaClub.com or the Arena Club app and use the promo code YAHOO20 at checkout for 20% off your first slab pack or card purchase.

Rip your Yahoo Fantasy x Arena Club slab packs today!

Rip your exclusive Yahoo Fantasy and Arena Club slab pack here

This Week's Featured Cards:

Quarterback

Trevor Lawrence, Jaguars – Lawrence hurled four touchdown passes in a Week 6 loss to the Texans in London. The former No. 1 overall pick is on pace for the best year of his career. Heading into a bye, he leads all NFL QBs with 14 passing touchdowns and is top-10 in passing yards (1,480).

Tyler Shough, Saints – With three touchdown passes against the Giants, Shough passed his 2025 total. The second-year QB added a rushing score in the 34-27 road win and is top-five in passing touchdowns (12) and trails just Josh Allen with 16 total TDs.

Drake Maye, Patriots – After just one touchdown contribution through the first three weeks of the season, no quarterback in the league has been hotter than Maye in October. The 2025 MVP runner-up has 11 total touchdowns in the past three games and has New England looking like the AFC threat many pegged it to be entering the season.

Running Back

Christian McCaffrey, 49ers – CMC hasn't surpassed the century mark rushing yet this season, but that doesn't mean he hasn't been productive. McCaffrey's two scores against the Commanders made it five consecutive weeks that he's found pay dirt and for anyone in a PPR league, you weren't complaining about his game-high 10 targets and nine receptions.

Jonathan Taylor, Colts – Like McCaffrey, Taylor has yet to see triple digits in his weekly rushing total this season. In Week 6 against the Titans, Taylor rushed for 94 yards and a touchdown while adding 57 yards on two catches. Taylor's 151 scrimmage yards were the highest of the season so far for the seventh-year running back.

Ashton Jeanty, Raiders – Jeanty looked poised for a breakout in his sophomore NFL season after a 147-yard, two-touchdown performance in Week 1. Unfortunately for Jeanty managers, they had to wait until Week 6 for the Raiders running back to find the end zone again. Jeanty's 22 rushing yards against the Bills were paltry, but he did score and added 36 yards on four catches as he continues to show growth in the passing game.

Wide Receiver/Tight End

Matthew Golden, Packers – Golden has been one of the biggest surprises of the fantasy season. With an ADP outside the top 120 before the season, those managers who took a flier on the second-year wideout are reaping the benefits as his numbers go up, up, up. Golden's 104-yard output vs. the Cowboys pushed him beyond 500 yards for the season and after scoring zero times in his rookie year, the Texas product has three touchdowns in 2026.

Colston Loveland, Bears – Arguably the best rookie tight end in 2025, Loveland started off slowly in 2026. With Caleb Williams back under center for the Bears, Loveland had his best game of the season, hauling in six passes for 65 yards and a touchdown.

Travis Hunter, Jaguars – Jacksonville has mainly used Hunter as a cornerback in his second season, but the Jaguars have sparingly picked their spots for the playmaker on offense. Hunter saw the heaviest offensive workload of the season in London against the Texans, catching all four of his targets for 59 yards and a touchdown.

Chase Card Highlights:

$70 Pack: Tyler Shough 2025 Prizm Pandora

$200 Pack: Trevor Lawrence 2025 Kaboom! Horizontal

With new cards released weekly based on fantasy performance, collectors have an ever-changing opportunity to grow their trading card collections with the NFL's hottest names. Don't miss out — and get ready to rip your slab pack!

Syndication: Austin American-Statesman

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning entered the 2026 college football season as a preseason Heisman Trophy favorite and the early favorite to go No. 1 overall in the 2027 NFL Draft. But after back-to-back losses, there are now real questions about whether he will even keep his starting job.

On Thursday, college football analyst Josh Pate was asked whether Saturday’s game against No. 7 Ole Miss could be Manning’s last start for the Longhorns. And while he didn’t say it would be, he didn’t rule it out either, saying that Manning is “on thin ice.”

‘He’s Gotta Fight Back’

Texas has dropped two straight games, both by a score of 27-24, and Manning committed a costly late turnover in each. Against Oklahoma, his interception with 19 seconds left set up the game-winning field goal. A week later, his late fumble sealed a loss to Florida after Texas had blown a 17-3 lead.

Through six games, Manning has thrown for 1,295 yards, 11 touchdowns, and five interceptions, and he has only topped 250 passing yards twice. The Longhorns are now 4-2, 1-2 in SEC play, and ranked No. 19 in the AP Poll.

After the Florida loss, head coach Steve Sarkisian said “everything is going to be evaluated” as he did not rule out making a change at quarterback, and the team has started giving backup KJ Lacey Jr. more first-team reps in practice. But Sarkisian also defended his quarterback this week, calling Manning “edgy” and saying that “at some point, he’s gotta fight back.”

‘On Thin Ice’

As Texas heads into this all-important game against Ole Miss, Pate didn’t sound all convinced that Manning will get many more chances if things don’t go well on Saturday.

“I feel weird even talking like that, but the answer might be yes. The answer is, he is on thin ice,” Pate said on ESPN’s Get Up, via On3. “Even Steve Sarkisian has had to sort of acknowledge that they’re giving K.J. Lacey some first team reps, but then again, he always takes first team reps. I trust the reporting around that program that you’re probably on thin ice and needing to make a move there.”

Pate also pointed out that Manning already had a perfect chance to bounce back last week, and didn’t take advantage of it.

“You mentioned the optimum phrase there… bounce back. Wasn’t that last week too, though? Last week, against a pass defense in the 100s in the Florida Gators,” Pate said. “That was the perfect bounce back. I want to say they had like five total passes completed beyond the line of scrimmage. That was the opportunity.”

Compared to what Manning faced against Florida, Pate thinks that Ole Miss will present a much more difficult test. And based on the way he predicts that the game will play out, he thinks that Texas will need Manning to make plays.

“Ole Miss comes in this week and here’s the difference between last week and this week; you can get beat this week, but they may make you trade points to keep up with them,” Pate said. “Florida last week took some assistance on your end. You can play good and Trinidad Chambliss can beat you. Again, without a good running game, this falls on the shoulders of Arch Manning.”

A loss on Saturday would give Texas its first three-game losing streak since 2021, and it would almost certainly knock the Longhorns out of College Football Playoff contention.

The post ‘He is on thin ice’: Analyst thinks Arch Manning could be benched appeared first on The Comeback: Today’s Top Sports Stories & Reactions.

While we continue to wait for the new college basketball season to tip off, the NBA is officially underway with Opening Night taking place on Tuesday. As the New York Knicks raise their banner, the rest of the league will tip off on Wednesday night.

That includes some former North Carolina Tar Heels standouts. There are 13 former Tar Heels in the NBA to begin the season, and to make it easy, we put together a list of the players and where they are currently.

Here is a look at former UNC players on NBA rosters at the moment.

Caleb Wilson (Chicago Bulls)

Caleb Wilson is entering his first season in the NBA after he was selected No. 4 overall by the Chicago Bulls in the 2026 NBA Draft.

Henri Veesaar (Atlanta Hawks)

Henri Veesaar was selected in the second round of the 2026 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks. But he suffered an injury early in training camp and is expected to miss the entire season.

Drake Powell (Brooklyn Nets)

A former five-star recruit, Drake Powell was taken No. 22 overall in the 2025 NBA Draft by Brooklyn.

2025-26 stats: 6.5 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game in 63 games, with 24 games started.

Caleb Love (Philadelphia 76ers)

Former North Carolina and Arizona standout Caleb Love is on a two-way contract with the Philadelphia 76ers and the Delaware Blue Coats.

2025-26 stats: 10.4 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game in 49 games, with 1 games started.

Harrison Ingram (Utah Jazz)

Harrison Ingram was a second-round pick of the San Antonio Spurs in the 2024 NBA Draft. After two seasons there with limited playing time, he's now in Utah looking for a fresh start.

2025-26 stats: 1.6 points, 0.5 rebounds, and 0.1 assists per game in 7 games, with 0 games started.

Cormac Ryan (Milwaukee Brewers)

Guard Cormac Ryan spent one season at North Carolina but he was a huge pickup for that roster. After his time at Stanford, Notre Dame, and Carolina, he went undrafted and has spent time in the NBA and the G League. He's with the Milwaukee Bucks again this season.

2025-26 stats: 14.3 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game in 11 games, with 2 games started.

Leaky Black (Sacramento Kings/Stockton Kings)

The former North Carolina forward went undrafted in the 2023 NBA Draft but signed a two-way deal with the Charlotte Hornets. He's been back-and-forth from the NBA to the G League and this year he's with the Sacramento Kings organization.

2025-26 stats: 7.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game in 15 games, with 9 games started.

Pete Nance (Milwaukee Bucks)

Pete Nance spent just one season at North Carolina after transferring from Northwestern. He signed a two-way contract with the Milwaukee Bucks just two days before the 2026-27 season.

2025-26 stats: 5.4 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game in 47 games, with 6 games started.

Day'Ron Sharpe (Brooklyn Nets)

The former five-star recruit spent just one season at North Carolina from 2021 to 2022. He was drafted by the Phoenix Suns and then had his draft rights traded to Brooklyn. In Summer 2026, Sharpe re-signed with the Nets on a two-year, $20 million contract.

2025-26 stats: 8.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game in 62 games, with 7 games started.

Cameron Johnson (Denver Nuggets)

After two seasons at North Carolina, Cameron Johnson was a lottery pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, going to the Phoenix Suns at No. 11 overall. He was traded to Brooklyn and then before last season, he was traded to the Denver Nuggets where he will have a key role.

2025-26 stats: 12.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game in 54 games, with 54 games started.

Coby White (Charlotte Hornets)

The former No. 7 overall pick by the Chicago Bulls was traded back home at last season's trade deadline, landing with the Charlotte Hornets. He earned a new deal in the offseason and is expected to be a key piece this season.

2025-26 stats: 17.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game in 50 games, with 26 games started.

Tony Bradley (Utah Jazz)

The center was one-and-done at North Carolina and has bounced around the league. But this season he's back with the team he got his start with, the Utah Jazz.

2025-26 stats: 4.0 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 0.5 assists per game in 41 games, with 4 games started.

Harrison Barnes (San Antonio Spurs)

The longest-tenured former Tar Heel in the NBA, Harrison Barnes is entering year 15. He's going into his third season with the Spurs and is hoping to get them back to the NBA Finals.

2025-26 stats: 9.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game in 77 games, with 52 games started.

This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire: Former UNC basketball players in the NBA for 2026-27 season

A surge of excitement is sweeping through Philadelphia as fans prepare for the Sixers' home opener at Xfinity Mobile Arena, where LeBron James will take the court wearing number 23 for the home team.

Rob Tyson of West Oak Lane says the day feels celebratory.

"It's like Christmas; we're excited here in Philly. LeBron coming to our city, we're all trying to support. We just want the team to do well."

Crowds also stopped by a limited-time Nike pop-up at the Fashion District celebrating James' arrival in Philadelphia.

Inside, designer Shaheed Rucker of Mt. Airy showcased artwork inspired by James' career.

"All the blood, sweat and tears he put into the game and just the duration of his career," said Rucker. "About that journey and about some of his most iconic moments."

Olney native Mikal "The Art Bully" Gibson designed a number of streetwear options for the pop-up.

The focal point is a take on James' silhouette.

"This piece right here is 'From Akron to Broad Street,' examining where he's from, but also shows where he's coming, where he has arrived, which is here, in Philadelphia," said Gibson

James will be wearing a pair of LeBron 24 sneakers; one red, one blue shoe, for the opener.

Fans are stopping at Mitchell & Ness on Walnut Street to prepare for the night.

Jerry Shaen of Washington Square said the moment offered a lift.

"Philly is having a tough sports moment, so the Sixers are proving to make us proud."

"We're down a little bit about the Eagles right now, but we're behind our Sixers now," another fan added.

Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs are having an excellent start to the season. They recently beat the Los Angeles Chargers with a score of 22-6. The team has won all 5 of their games so far, and are one of three teams to be still unbeaten.

The Chiefs look very strong at the moment, and are being considered as a Super Bowl contender. Ahead of a crucial matchup, Mahomes had something to say.

Patrick Mahomes remembers 2018 loss to Seahawks

The Chiefs have managed to defeat all of their opponents so far, but will now face the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. The reigning Super Bowl champions are a formidable team, though they have a current record of 3 wins and 3 losses. However, Mahomes is not taking them lightly based on his previous matchup with the team at their home stadium.

IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Mahomes has only played the Seahawks at Lumen Field once in his career. It happened back in December 2018, with the Chiefs losing to the Seahawks with a score of 38-31. The quarterback performed well in that game, as he completed 23 passes for 273 yards and three touchdowns. The Chiefs last won at the stadium back in 2010.

Ahead of the Seahawks game, Mahomes remembered the atmosphere at the 2018 loss in a recent press conference. He said, “I remember it being very loud, them having a lot of passion. I feel like I might have been a little too amped up kind of early in the game.” He added that it was a very important experience for him, “I think that’s something you learn from as you go throughout your career is like, you’ve got to be able to manage that.”

Mahomes also talked about what qualities make the Seahawk an opponent to fear facing against.

Patrick Mahomes addresses Seahawks defense

In the same press conference, Mahomes talked about the current Seahawks team. He highlighted their defensive attributes. He said, “They’re good at every single level of the defense.”

He added, “Defensive line, linebackers, secondary, everybody, and they have a great scheme. They’re going to make you earn it every single drive, and it’s not always going to be pretty, but you have to be consistent and not push it too far, but push it enough to make plays happen.” Head coach Andy Reid also mentioned that his counterpart Mike Macdonald runs one of the best defensive schemes in the league.

Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs will now prepare as they face the Seattle Seahawks at their home.

More NFL News:

• Patrick Mahomes’ Former Teammate Linked as Chiefs Reunion Candidate
• Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes Leaves Every Other NFL Quarterback Behind in Latest Rankings
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The post Chiefs Star Patrick Mahomes Recalls Being ‘Too Amped Up’ in Only Previous Seattle Game appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.

Photo by: Gary A. Vasquez

Carson Hocevar returns to Talladega Superspeedway this weekend hoping to recreate the magic that changed his NASCAR Cup Series career earlier this year. The Spire Motorsports driver earned his first career Cup Series victory at Talladega in April, and now he has another opportunity to prove that his superspeedway success was no fluke.

The YellaWood 500 takes place Sunday, October 25, with championship implications becoming increasingly important as the NASCAR Chase moves closer to its conclusion.

Hocevar Returns to His Winning Track

Hocevar’s April victory remains one of the most memorable moments of the 2026 season. The driver of the No. 77 Chevrolet held off Chris Buescher by just 0.114 seconds after a dramatic final-lap battle, securing the first Cup Series win of his career.

His celebration became almost as famous as the victory itself. Hocevar leaned out of his car’s window while completing his celebratory lap, creating an unforgettable moment that introduced him to an even larger audience.

However, his Talladega success was not an isolated performance. Hocevar has consistently shown speed at drafting tracks, finishing fourth at Atlanta in February and third when the series returned to Atlanta in July. He also finished sixth in each of his two previous Talladega starts before winning in April.

Those results suggest that Hocevar and his team understand how to navigate the tight packs and unpredictable conditions that define superspeedway racing.

A Different Challenge Awaits

Although Hocevar enters the weekend with confidence, repeating his April victory will not be easy. Talladega is known for massive crashes, aggressive blocking and last-lap passes that can completely change the outcome.

NASCAR has also introduced another change for Sunday’s race, reducing the rear spoiler to 3.5 inches in an effort to improve maneuverability and create more opportunities for drivers to move through the field.

Hocevar will need to adapt quickly while working with other drivers in the draft. Finding the right drafting partners and avoiding unnecessary risks could be just as important as having a fast car.

Can He Do It Again?

Hocevar enters the weekend sitting 11th in the championship standings, making every remaining race important. A victory would provide a massive boost to his championship hopes while further establishing him as a serious threat at superspeedways.

The 23-year-old has already proven he can win at Talladega. Now, he has a chance to demonstrate that he can do it again.

If Hocevar can stay out of trouble and position himself near the front during the closing laps, another memorable Sunday could be waiting for the No. 77 team.

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — No. 10 Utah has suspended reserve defensive tackle Jamal Wallace after his arrest earlier this month tied to an alleged domestic violence incident.

According to KSL-TV in Salt Lake City, Wallace was arrested after a woman he had been dating said he raped her and shared videos of the alleged incident with others via social media. Wallace was charged with five counts of distribution of an intimate image.

Wallace was processed for his arrest at the Salt Lake County Jail on Oct. 11 and released a day later.

“We were made aware of the situation with Jamal Wallace on Oct. 11 and he was immediately placed on an indefinite suspension from the program,” the school said in a statement Thursday. “We take these matters seriously. As this is a pending legal matter we have no further comment at this time.”

The woman told police the two were having a converation about “infidenlity and their relationship” when he grabbed her head and forced her to perform oral sex, KSL reported, citing a probable cause statement. The woman later said he forcibly had sex with her, according to the documents, and she told police Wallace used her cellphone to take video and send it to five people on Snapchat, KSL reported.

Salt Lake police said they found videos of the incident in which the phone was “in his possession," the station reported.

Wallace spent the previous two seasons at Tennessee after starting his career in junior college at Sierra College. He appeared for the Utes only in the season opener against Idaho.

The Utes host No. 14 Houston on Saturday.

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Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase (1) walks off the field after the game against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. © Rich Storry-Imagn Images

Cincinnati wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase has had an inconsistent start to the season for the Bengals, including a concussion earlier this month, though he has since cleared protocol. Chase and the Bengals are looking to erase a disappointing 2025 season in which they missed the playoffs after finishing 6-11.

Despite a glorious college football career with the LSU Tigers, Chase is yet to taste the same success in the NFL, and the wide receiver recently revealed where he’d draw the line in his quest for league honors.

Ja’Marr Chase Draws the Line on NFL Honors

During a recent segment of the “Chasing No. 1” podcast, Chase addressed whether he would get a face tattoo if it meant getting a Super Bowl ring, Offensive Player of the Year Award, or induction into the Hall of Fame.

“Hell no! It ain’t worth it,” Chase said.

The Bengals star further admitted that his grandmother’s aversion to tattoos has stopped him from getting more body art.

“If I’ll be honest, my grandmother, rest in peace, she would not like me getting no more tattoos,” Chase remarked. “Oh my gosh, she hates it. I’ll never forget going into her house for the first time and showing her my small little tattoo on the inside of my arm. It’s Matthew 22:14 and I was like, ‘Look.’ She was like, ‘Boy, if you come in here with one more tattoo.'”

BE THE GM OF YOUR FAVORITE TEAM:PFN’s Free NFL Mock Draft Simulator

Chase is not far from achieving legendary status in the league after becoming just the sixth player in the Super Bowl era to win the receiving Triple Crown, leading the NFL in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns in 2024.

The Cincinnati wide receiver tallied 1,708 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns on 127 receptions to blow away the rest of the competition that season.

The wide receiver had a stellar college football career at LSU, winning the national championship as part of one of the greatest teams of all time and snagging the prestigious Fred Biletnikoff Award, given annually to the FBS’s outstanding receiver.

PREDICT THE NFL SEASON:PFN’s Free NFL Playoff Predictor

After being selected No. 5 overall by the Bengals in the 2021 NFL Draft, Chase won AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year after an impressive first league season. Across his first five NFL seasons, the former Tigers standout earned five Pro Bowl selections, one AP Second-Team All-Pro nod, and two AP First-Team All-Pro selections.

Chase has a 5-2 playoff record, including helping lead the Bengals to Super Bowl LVI, where they lost 23-20 to the Los Angeles Rams. With former LSU teammate Joe Burrow back under center, the Bengals are on the periphery of Super Bowl 61 favorites, with the unbeaten San Francisco 49ers leading the oddsboard as of Oct. 19.

This season, Chase has amassed 289 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns on 27 receptions for the Bengals, earningPFN’s NFL Wide Receiver Impact grade of 81.8 (No. 16 in the NFL). The Bengals star is chasing his sixth consecutive 1,000-yard season and has as good a chance as any to be a future Hall of Famer if he continues on his current trajectory.

This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network.

Monaco punish Freiburg as Schuster’s side suffer 3-0 Conference League defeat

Freiburg’s unbeaten start to their European campaign came to an abrupt halt as Monaco capitalised on their opportunities at the Stade Louis II, leaving Julian Schuster’s side with plenty to reflect on after a disappointing performance.

Having opened their league-phase campaign with a 3-2 victory over Jablonec, the Bundesliga outfit had travelled to France looking to build on that result. However, they struggled to make their attacking pressure count against a Monaco side that proved considerably more clinical in front of goal.

Freiburg suffered an early setback when Patrick Osterhage was introduced in place of Yannik Engelhardt after just 15 minutes, forcing Schuster into an enforced change to his midfield.

Despite that disruption, the visitors remained competitive during the opening period and looked to create opportunities through their wide players. However, Monaco gradually gained control of the contest and eventually found the breakthrough in first-half stoppage time.

Paris Brunner, who had emerged as a key attacking figure for the hosts under Filipe Luís, put Monaco ahead in the 45th minute. The forward received the ball inside the Freiburg half before flicking the ball intelligently over Max Rosenfelder’s head and racing through on goal to calmly slot home. 

The timing of the goal was particularly damaging for Schuster’s side, who had to regroup after conceding at the worst possible moment.

Freiburg made a change at half-time, with Lucas Höler replacing Yuito Suzuki as the visitors attempted to find a route back into the match.

Schuster subsequently turned to his bench again, introducing Philipp Treu and Derry Scherhant in the 62nd minute in an effort to inject fresh energy into the side.

Freiburg saw plenty of the ball and continued to search for an equaliser, but their possession failed to translate into a consistent threat in the final third.

Monaco, meanwhile, remained dangerous and strengthened their grip on the contest in the closing stages. Lamine Camara struck in the 83rd minute to make it 2-0, leaving Freiburg with little time to mount a comeback.

The hosts then added a late third goal through Ansu Fati to complete a comprehensive victory, underlining the difference in attacking efficiency between the two sides on the night.

The result represents a setback for Freiburg in their bid to progress through the Conference League league phase, particularly after their positive opening victory against Jablonec.

Schuster’s team will be disappointed by their inability to turn possession and attacking pressure into clear-cut opportunities. Despite registering more possession and corners than Monaco, Freiburg managed only one shot on target, highlighting their struggles to threaten the home side’s goal.

Attention will now turn to Freiburg’s response, with a demanding domestic schedule awaiting them. After suffering a 2-1 defeat to Bayer Leverkusen last weekend, they will be keen to put their European disappointment behind them and return to winning ways.

An annual tradition first started in 1988, the Pop Warner National Cheer and Dance Championships are back and better than ever with thousands of young athletes competing for titles this December.

After attending a Pop Warner training camp, participating on the sidelines at football games, and joining regional events, teams can qualify to compete at the National Championships.

Cheerleaders and dancers will go from the sidelines to center stage as they compete one last time this season as a Pop Warner team and begin what could be long, exciting careers in the sport.

• Subscribe to FloCheer Today To Watch The Pop Warner Nationals
• See The Upcoming Events On FloCheer's Broadcast Schedule
• Watch Replays With Sound Of The 2026 Cheer Worlds Champions
  

The Pop Warner National Cheer and Dance Championships are streaming live on FloCheer December 6-10 from the Charlotte Convention Center in Charlotte, NC.

Here's how to watch, the event schedule, and everything parents need to know as they watch their cheerleader or dancer compete in the Pop Warner National Championships 2026.

Watch Live

2026 Pop Warner National Cheer & Dance Championship
How To Watch The 2026 Pop Warner National Cheer & Dance Championship

Cheer and dance fans can watch all of the action from the 2026 Pop Warner National Cheer & Dance Championship unfold live on FloCheer and the FloSports app.

Highlights, replays, results and news also will be available on both platforms.

• To watch on your mobile device, download the FloSports app on iOS or Android.
• To watch on your computer or laptop, go to FloCheer.com to access the live stream.
• To watch on your TV, download the FloSports app on Roku, Fire TV, Chromecast, or Apple TV, or cast directly from your phone using the FloSports app.

2026 Pop Warner Cheer & Dance Nationals Schedule

Sunday, Dec. 6 through Thursday, Dec. 10

All Times Eastern and subject to change.

• Coming soon.

About Pop Warner Cheer & Dance

With seven age ranges and three skill levels (novice, intermediate and advanced), there's an opportunity for any young athlete to be a part of the Pop Warner program and even progress through the ranks. 

The cheer and dance age-based divisions are: Tiny Mite, Mitey Mite, Junior Peewee, Peewee, Junior Varsity, Varsity and Bantam.

The Show Cheer & Sideline Performance Cheer teams also compete in sizes: Small Teams: 5-10 cheerleaders, Medium Teams: 11-20 cheerleaders & Large Teams: 21-35 cheerleaders.

Finally, cheer and dance teams also are divided into categories based on their type of performance: Show Cheer 1-4, Core Cheer, Sideline Performance Cheer, Pom Performance, Theme Dance and Hip Hop.

Pop Warner is the premier organization in the United States for youth football, cheerleading and dance, boasting a long history of providing a fun and safe environment that focuses on teamwork, worth ethic, commitment, inclusion and more, while giving participants the structure and guidance they need to succeed on the field, in the classroom and in life. 

And, of course, there are few better feelings than seeing all of that time and hard work pay off in the form of national championships, which is what's happening this week in the Queen City. 

2026 Pop Warner National Cheer & Dance Championship Results

The results for the 2026 Pop Warner National Cheer & Dance Championship can be found here once they become available.

For the official results, please visit PopWarner.com

Past results:2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020

What Does My FloCheer Subscription Get Me?

Subscribing to FloCheer unlocks complete access to every moment of the 2026 Pop Warner National Cheer & Dance Championships. Here is what is included with your account:

Complete Live Coverage: Live access to all 550+ youth cheer and dance routines across 5 full days of competition.

Multi-Platform Streaming: Watch on your desktop or laptop, or stream via the FloSports app on iOS, Android, Roku, Fire TV, Chromecast, and Apple TV.

Full FloSports Network Access: Your subscription unlocks live events, replays, and coverage across the entire FloSports network (including FloTrack, FloWrestling, FloGrappling, and more).

FloCheer Archived Footage

Video footage from the event will be archived and stored in a video library for FloCheer subscribers to watch for the duration of their subscriptions.

Join The Cheer And Dance Conversation On Social

• Follow us on Twitter @FloCheer
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ROTTERDAM, Netherlands (AP) — Daiki Hashimoto of Japan soared to gold during the men's all-around final at the world gymnastics championships on Thursday, sealing his fourth straight title with a brilliant performance on high bar in the final rotation.

The 25-year-old Hashimoto's total of 85.988 included a 14.766 on high bar, even though he could have opted for a slightly safer routine to assure himself of the top spot on the podium.

That's simply not how Hashimoto, the 2020 Olympic all-around champion, goes about his business. He had no trouble overcoming a sluggish start on floor exercise that left him 10th after the first rotation to take another step toward establishing himself as one of the best men's gymnasts of all time.

Hashimoto's run of four consecutive world all-around titles that began in 2021 is second to Japan great Kohei Uchimura, who won six straight all-around golds between 2009 and 2015.

Yang Haonan of China was second at 84.199. Joe Fraser of Great Britain, whose struggles during the team final played a factor in his team finishing just off the medal stand, surged to third with an 83.531.

Arsenii Dukhno of Russia, making his world championship senior debut at 18, was just a fraction behind Hashimoto heading into the final event. Competing ahead of the Japanese superstar, Dukhno fell early in his routine and then followed with multiple form failures. His score of 11.566 sent him tumbling to seventh.

American Frederick Richard, part of the U.S. men's team that earned bronze at the 2024 Summer Olympics and an all-around bronze medalist at worlds in 2023, finished eighth. U.S. teammate Danila Leykin, 19, was 11th in his first world championship all-around final.

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See AP’s full sports coverage here

Head coach Sean McVay of the Los Angeles Rams. GettyTrade rumors surrounding Vikings' wide receiver Jauan Jennings are expected to heat up over the coming weeks GettyCINCINNATI, OHIO - OCTOBER 04: Wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. #7 of the Jacksonville Jaguars makes a catch for a touchdown during the second quarter of an NFL game at Paycor Stadium on October 04, 2026 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Jeff Dean/Getty Images) Getty

Davante Adams will miss at least six weeks and the Los Angeles Rams need a receiver.

Rams coach Sean McVay announced Monday that Adams ruptured his semitendinosus. The injury sidelines the 33-year-old for six to 10 weeks. The low end of that range is about a month and a half.

Adams suffered the non-contact injury late in Sunday’s 18-16 home loss to the Arizona Cardinals.

He caught 30 passes for 480 yards and four touchdowns in six games.

McVay said Wednesday that the Rams have not discussed adding a receiver from outside the organization. ESPN’s Dan Graziano reported that the Rams will at least explore a trade for a receiver.

A new trade pitch sends a Minnesota Vikings man.

Rams Pitch Targets Vikings’ Man as Davante Adams Replacement

GettyTrade rumors surrounding Vikings’ wide receiver Jauan Jennings are expected to heat up over the coming weeks.

The Rams could have drafted USC receiver Makai Lemon at No. 13 overall in April. Instead, they took Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson. The Philadelphia Eagles selected Lemon at No. 20.

That choice puts Los Angeles in position to buy a pass-catcher before the deadline. The latest trade pitch has the Rams sending a fifth-round pick to Minnesota for Jauan Jennings. The Rams have no 2027 first- or third-round pick.

Jennings stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 212 pounds. The 29-year-old signed a one-year deal with the Vikings in the offseason. Minnesota has barely used him this season.

Jennings caught 55 passes for 643 yards, nine touchdowns and 36 first downs for the San Francisco 49ers in 2025. In 2024, he had 77 catches for 975 yards, six touchdowns and 47 first downs. Jennings scored 15 touchdowns over those two seasons.

Minnesota is 5-0 and returns from its bye Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts. NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero said Oct. 15 he does not anticipate Jennings “going anywhere.” His one-year deal expires after this season.

A fifth-round pick is a low price for a receiver with 15 touchdowns in two years and the Rams might have to end up disappointed. There’s another option.

Brian Thomas Jr. Offers a Bigger Swing

Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Brian Thomas Jr. would be a bigger swing than Jennings. He also would cost significantly more. Thomas turned 24 on Oct. 8. Jacksonville drafted him No. 23 overall in 2024.

He plays on a rookie contract that runs through 2027. Any team that acquires him would control a fifth-year option for 2028.

GettyWide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. #7 of the Jacksonville Jaguars makes a catch for a touchdown.

Thomas caught 87 passes for 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns as a rookie. His production has dropped each year since. He had 48 catches for 707 yards and two touchdowns in 14 games in 2025. This season, he has nine catches for 105 yards and one touchdown in six games.

Thomas averaged 75.4 yards per game in 2024, 50.5 in 2025 and 17.5 this season. He has no catches in his past two games.

The Athletic’s Jonathan Jones reported last week that Jacksonville “does not have him on the trade block.” Graziano wrote Sunday that “a lot of people around the league” believe Thomas could land elsewhere by the deadline. The Jaguars have said they do not intend to trade him.

The Rams’ front office knows Jaguars general manager James Gladstone and coach Liam Coen.

Houston sent Arizona a 2027 second-round pick for receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. this month. Harrison, like Thomas, was a 2024 first-round pick. Graziano noted the Rams “don’t have a ton to trade.”

The Rams have shown they will pay heavily for stars. They sent Jared Verse and first-, second- and third-round picks to Cleveland for Myles Garrett in June. They gave Kansas City four picks, including the No. 29 overall selection, for Trent McDuffie in March.

The Rams entered the season as Super Bowl favorites. They are 2-4 now. That makes a high-upside deal fit Los Angeles better than most teams.

Thomas is no guaranteed home run. A rebound would still make the price look small in hindsight.

This article was originally published on HEAVY

The post Rams Trade Pitch Lands Vikings’ 6-foot-3 WR After Davante Adams News appeared first on HEAVY.

Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak. Getty

The Las Vegas Raiders have emerged as a logical trade destination for Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Hollywood Brown as the NFL trade deadline approaches, according to Sports Illustrated.

Nick Faria of SI’s Eagles On SI identified the Raiders as one of three potential partners for Brown, alongside the Pittsburgh Steelers and Kansas City Chiefs. Brown has been limited in Philadelphia after signing a one-year deal in the offseason following the departure of A.J. Brown.

“Brown may not be the same player he once was, but he is a former 1,000-yard receiver and that could be huge for a Raiders offense whose best receiver this year is Tre Tucker,” Faria wrote. “This seems like a logical fit for a team expecting to compete by the end of the year.”

The Eagles, sitting at 2-4, have used Brown sparingly. He appeared in just one game this season, recording two rushes for 12 yards with no receptions before an ankle injury and subsequent healthy scratches.

NFL reporter Jordan Schultz has noted teams seeking wide receiver help view him as a possible trade candidate before the Nov. 10 deadline.

Las Vegas Raiders’ Improved Trajectory

The Raiders have exceeded early expectations under first-year head coach Klint Kubiak. Their defense has improved markedly from last season, and quarterback Kirk Cousins has the offense competitive against strong units.

Cousins has thrown for 1,582 yards and 14 touchdowns through six games, ranking among the league leaders in scoring passes. The Raiders are 3-3 and averaging 27 points per game, sixth in the NFL, even with a struggling run game.

Everything appears on schedule for the rebuild, Faria wrote. Still, the team could use additional talent at wide receiver as it aims to contend deeper into the season.

Why Hollywood Brown Makes Sense in Las Vegas

Brown is not the same explosive player he was earlier in his career, but he remains a former 1,000-yard receiver. That pedigree could help an offense whose top wideout this year is Tre Tucker.

Tucker has 24 catches for 371 yards and three touchdowns in six games. He leads the wide receiver group, but the room lacks a proven veteran presence with deep-ball experience. Brock Bowers remains the primary receiving threat among tight ends.

Brown’s career totals include 371 receptions for 4,322 yards and 33 touchdowns. His best season came in 2021 with the Baltimore Ravens, when he posted 91 catches for 1,008 yards and six scores. Last year with the Chiefs, he managed 49 catches for 587 yards and five touchdowns in 16 games.

At 29, Brown still offers speed as a field-stretcher. He has spoken about feeling as fast as ever in recent months. A low-cost addition — potentially a late-round pick — could provide immediate depth without disrupting the long-term plan around young pieces like Ashton Jeanty and Bowers.

The Raiders signed Jalen Nailor in free agency and have dealt with injuries to other receivers such as Dont’e Thornton Jr. and Jack Bech. Adding Brown would give Cousins another reliable option in a pass-heavy attack under Kubiak.

Faria called the pairing logical for a team expecting to compete by season’s end. The Eagles’ struggles and Brown’s reduced role make a deal more plausible than it appeared in March.

Whether Las Vegas pursues him depends on how the front office evaluates its current weapons against the remaining schedule. The deadline is less than three weeks away, and conversations around available veterans are intensifying league-wide.

Brown’s contract is modest, and his availability is clear after limited snaps in Philadelphia. For a Raiders squad building momentum with Cousins under center, the former first-round pick represents a low-risk veteran boost at a position of need.

This article was originally published on HEAVY

The post Raiders Emerge as Potential Trade Suitor for $5 Million WR appeared first on HEAVY.

The Bears brought up a pair of players from the practice squad for Thursday night's game against the Patriots.

The team announced that they have elevated running back Zavier Scott and linebacker Buddy Johnson. Both players will revert back after the game.

Scott is joining the team for the third straight game. He has played 30 special teams snaps over the last two weeks and provides depth with Kyle Monangai still out of the lineup.

Johnson made his first appearance of the season last week and had two tackles in the win over Atlanta. The Bears will be without linebacker Jack Sanborn on Thursday and T.J. Edwards is listed as doubtful to play in the game.