The Washington Commanders unveiled new uniforms for the 2026 season Wednesday inspired by the fra...

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/35248686/related

Commanders reveal new uniforms for 2026 season

The 2026 NFL Draft is just over a week away, and teams are getting ready to select their next cla...

<p>The 2026 NFL Draft is just over a week away, and teams are getting ready to select their next class of players.</p><p>Here's a look at five organizations that could define draft weekend:</p><h3>New York Jets</h3><p>The Jets will begin to reap the rewards of the Quinnen Williams and Sauce Gardner trades next week. New York owns four of the top 43 selections, and its nine-pick inventory holds the most value in the NFL, according to <a href="https://www.tankathon.com/nfl/power_rankings">The Harvard Sports Analysis Collective</a>. If you're watching the first two rounds, expect to see a Jets representative on the stage often.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>However, the unfortunate reality for New York's front office is that this is the wrong time to draft a quarterback with the second overall pick, despite the club desperately needing a franchise passer. Fernando Mendoza will almost certainly go to the Las Vegas Raiders at No. 1, but the signal-caller talent sharply declines after the Heisman Trophy winner.</p><p>As a result, the Jets will likely use the No. 2 selection on one of the top defenders, potentially edge rushers Arvell Reese or David Bailey. After that, it gets interesting. Do they use their second first-rounder (No. 16 overall) on Alabama's Ty Simpson, who's widely regarded as the second-best quarterback? Does New York use the pick elsewhere and see if Simpson slides to the second round? Is there another quarterback the team has its eye on?</p><p>The Jets have tons of flexibility with their haul of picks, but they also need to turn a number of them into quality players - and fast. Second-year coach Aaron Glenn can't afford another ugly season.</p><h3>Pittsburgh Steelers</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/830157/cropped_GettyImages-2263321614.jpg?ts=1775789500" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/830157/w220xh124_GettyImages-2263321614.jpg?ts=1775789500 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/830157/w320xh180_GettyImages-2263321614.jpg?ts=1775789500 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/830157/w640xh360_GettyImages-2263321614.jpg?ts=1775789500 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/830157/w768xh432_GettyImages-2263321614.jpg?ts=1775789500 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/830157/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2263321614.jpg?ts=1775789500 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Justin Casterline / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The 2026 draft is incredibly important for the Steelers' future. Last year's George Pickens trade, combined with an influx of compensatory picks, has Pittsburgh holding a league-high 12 selections, including five in the first three rounds.</p><p>As for the roster, the Steelers are in familiar territory. They're again heading into the draft without knowing their starting quarterback. Aaron Rodgers didn't sign until June last year, and there's been no indication on whether the veteran will return for his 22nd NFL season. Additionally, Pittsburgh faces the same problem as the Jets: this isn't the right draft to address the quarterback position long term.</p><p>The Steelers are in a weird spot. They've made the playoffs in four of the last five years but have no postseason victories. Their roster sorely needs young, blue-chip talent, and they're transitioning to a new coach in Mike McCarthy.</p><p>General manager Omar Khan has plenty of resources to use next week, and he can't give the Steelers another ho-hum weekend. This aging roster needs help, no matter who's coaching it.</p><h3>Kansas City Chiefs</h3><p>Since hiring Andy Reid in 2013, the Chiefs have selected in the top 10 only twice. They took offensive tackle Eric Fisher first overall that year and traded up for some random quarterback named Patrick Mahomes in 2017. Both became staples in Kansas City's offense for years.</p><p>The Chiefs are back in those waters this draft with the No. 9 pick and hold the 29th selection after trading star cornerback Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams. K.C. also has two more picks in the top 75, so all eyes will be on how the organization tries to retool for the second chapter of Mahomes' career.</p><p>Though general manager Brett Veach has made several attempts to provide Mahomes with weapons in recent drafts, the moves haven't really panned out. Skyy Moore (2022) is off the team, Rashee Rice (2023) has battled injuries and off-field issues, and Xavier Worthy (2024) ranks 38th in receiving yards (1,170) out of 41 wideouts with at least 1,300 snaps over the last two years, according to TruMedia.</p><p>With Travis Kelce at the tail end of his career and uncertainty at the wide receiver position, we could see the Chiefs stock up on offensive talent early. Conversely, this defense needs major reinforcements after losing McDuffie and fellow corner Jaylen Watson. Plus, star defensive tackle Chris Jones is getting older, and Kansas City is still deploying him as an edge rusher at times to aid a struggling pass rush. All told, this squad has lots of work to do.</p><h3>Philadelphia Eagles</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/830268/cropped_GettyImages-2246087809.jpg?ts=1775874635" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/830268/w220xh124_GettyImages-2246087809.jpg?ts=1775874635 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/830268/w320xh180_GettyImages-2246087809.jpg?ts=1775874635 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/830268/w640xh360_GettyImages-2246087809.jpg?ts=1775874635 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/830268/w768xh432_GettyImages-2246087809.jpg?ts=1775874635 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/830268/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2246087809.jpg?ts=1775874635 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Patrick McDermott / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>We've seen general manager Howie Roseman succeed in retooling his team before, but the Eagles are in a unique spot heading into this draft. While they won the NFC East again last year, the season was a roller coaster that ended in a disappointing loss to the San Francisco 49ers in the wild-card round. Now, Philadelphia has question marks at critical offensive positions.</p><p>Let's start with the low-hanging fruit: A.J. Brown. The star wide receiver has been the subject of trade rumors all offseason, and the Eagles have bolstered their receiving corps by adding three wideouts, including acquiring Dontayvion Wicks from the Green Bay Packers last week. The additions have only fueled speculation that a Brown trade could be imminent. His contract also becomes much easier for Philly to move after June 1, allowing the franchise to save on the 2026 cap rather than eat $20 million in dead money. Even if a potential trade is more likely to occur later in the offseason, the three-time Pro Bowler's status will be a hot topic throughout draft weekend.</p><p>Meanwhile, the Eagles also have serious concerns along the offensive line. Lane Johnson will be 36 when the season begins and started only 10 games last campaign. We know how much Roseman values the trenches, and he likes to find future replacements at important positions sooner rather than later. Factor in Landon Dickerson's flirtation with retirement and Cam Jurgens coming off a down year, and we could see Philadelphia addressing the line early and often.</p><p>The Eagles always keep things interesting during draft week, as Roseman loves wheeling and dealing. With the drama surrounding Brown and needs across the offense after spending recent top picks to solidify the defense, Philadelphia will again be fun to watch on draft weekend.</p><h3>Miami Dolphins</h3><p>The Dolphins have seven picks in the first three rounds - that's not a typo. Their stock of top-100 selections results in the <a href="https://www.tankathon.com/nfl/power_rankings">second-most value</a> overall, and a new regime in general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley must take advantage.</p><p>Miami's depth chart is a depressing sight. After trading wide receiver Jaylen Waddle to the Denver Broncos, there aren't many (if any) building blocks left. To make matters worse, 59.4% of the Dolphins' salary cap is allocated to dead money, leaving little cap space remaining and presenting Sullivan with a significant challenge.</p><p>Look for the GM to get creative on draft weekend to put this rebuild into high gear. Malik Willis signed a three-year deal in free agency but is still unproven, so the Dolphins may deal veterans (such as Zach Sieler and Jordyn Brooks) for 2027 picks that can help the quarterback pursuit next year. Miami also holds the 30th selection, a potential trade-out spot that could net future draft capital.</p><p>Sullivan and Co. are basically starting from scratch while cleaning up the mess left behind by the previous front office. How they navigate draft weekend will be crucial to getting a team that hasn't won a playoff game since 2000 on the right track.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/35237429/related

5 teams that could shape the 2026 NFL Draft

Anthony Sweeney, a five-star edge rusher in the 2027 class, has committed to Texas Tech, he told ...

<p>Anthony Sweeney, a five-star edge rusher in the 2027 class, has committed to Texas Tech, he told <a href="https://x.com/Hayesfawcett3/status/2043773508098945499?s=20">On3's Hayes Fawcett</a>.</p><p>The Maryland native is the 18th-ranked prospect on the <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-sports/football/recruiting/player/_/id/260680/anthony-sweeney">ESPN 300</a> and the third-highest-ranked recruit at his position. He chose the Red Raiders over LSU and South Carolina.</p><p>Sweeney, who's listed at 6-foot-4 and 230 pounds, is set to enter his senior season at Saint Frances Academy in Baltimore.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The pass-rusher visited Texas Tech earlier in April. He told <a href="https://www.on3.com/rivals/news/red-raiders-pull-off-major-win-with-5-star-edge-anthony-sweeney-i-just-couldnt-say-no-to-texas-tech/">Rivals' Chad Simmons</a> that head coach Joey McGuire is a primary reason for his decision to play in Lubbock.</p><p>"He's a great coach - a players' coach," Sweeney said. "He's got great energy and sets his players up for success. You see what he has done with the program."</p><p>Sweeney added, "He's building something big. They're already competing, and I believe they can get to the top. They were in the playoffs last year, and he has made Texas Tech into a national contender."</p><p>Texas Tech's 2027 class also includes defensive tackle Jalen Brewster, the top recruit on the <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-sports/football/recruiting/rankings/scnext300boys/_/view/rn300jr/sort/rank/class/2027">ESPN 300</a>.</p>

MANHATTAN, KS - NOVEMBER 01: A view of a Texas Tech Red Raiders helmet during a Big 12 football game between the Texas Tech Red Raiders and Kansas State Wildcats on November 1, 2025 at Bill Snyder Family Stadium in Manhattan, KS.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/35228237/related

5-star edge rusher Sweeney commits to Texas Tech

Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton shared details Monday about his ongoing battle with shingl...

<p>Indiana Pacers guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a> shared details Monday about his ongoing battle with shingles that began in February.</p><p>"I've lost part of my eyebrow. My eye is always swollen from itching it," Haliburton told reporters at his end-of-season press conference, including <a href="https://www.wishtv.com/sports/indiana-pacers/tyrese-haliburton-shares-update-on-his-recovery-from-shingles/">WISH-TV's Josh Bode</a>. "I have good days and bad days, but for the most part, it's bad days. It has not been any fun.</p><p>"I'm still honestly dealing with it. I've been taking unbelievable amounts of medication to try to get rid of it. It hasn't worked. It's obviously caused me to gain weight and look a little bigger."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful rash, and it can occur anywhere on the body. Haliburton added that he's also experienced nerve pain for the last two months.</p><p>The two-time All-Star missed the 2025-26 campaign while recovering from a torn Achilles suffered during last year's NBA Finals. He rejoined the Pacers for the final weeks of the season after stepping away from the team following his diagnosis.</p><p>Despite the challenges brought on by the disease, Haliburton remains confident that he'll be ready to start next season.</p><p>"Obviously, I just started playing five-on-five, and I'm out of shape like crazy, like I've never been before, but that's going to come with me playing," Haliburton said. "I really have no worries, especially once I get off this medication. That's the biggest thing."</p><p>He added, "I've been gaining weight all season, but it's been good weight. I feel like it's been good. Well, now it hasn't. I credit a lot of that to the medication in all honesty, so once I get off that and start running a little more, I have no worries. I got a long summer ahead of me."</p><p>Indiana finished with a 19-63 record this year, the second-worst mark in the league behind only the Washington Wizards.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - FEBRUARY 06: Tyrese Haliburton #0 of the Indiana Pacers walks off the court after a game against the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum on February 06, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/35228149/related

Pacers' Haliburton details ongoing battle with shingles

The Philadelphia Eagles acquired wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks from the Green Bay Packers for a ...

<p>The Philadelphia Eagles acquired wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188369" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188369">Dontayvion Wicks</a> from the Green Bay Packers for a 2026 fifth-round pick and a 2027 sixth-round selection, the NFC East club announced Saturday.</p><p>Wicks will sign a one-year, $12.5-million extension with Philly. The receiver had been in Green Bay since being selected in the fifth round of the 2023 draft, and he was entering the final year of his rookie contract.</p><p>The 24-year-old hauled in 30 receptions on 46 targets last season for 332 yards and two touchdowns. He's posted 108 catches for 1,328 yards and 11 scores in 46 games during his three-year career. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Philadelphia's also brought in receivers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/114847" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/114847">Marquise "Hollywood" Brown</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161832" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161832">Elijah Moore</a> in the last month.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/111194" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/111194">A.J. Brown</a>, the Eagles' leading receiver over the last four seasons, has been the subject of trade rumors. Brown's contract becomes easier for Philly to move after June 1, so any potential trade would likely happen after that date, according to <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/2042702917652591003?s=20">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.</p><p> </p>

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - NOVEMBER 27: Dontayvion Wicks #13 of the Green Bay Packers reacts after a first down during the third quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on November 27, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/35190302/related

Packers trade Wicks to Eagles

Guard Elliot Cadeau has agreed to a deal to return to Michigan for his senior year, he told ESPN'...

<p>Guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110557" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110557">Elliot Cadeau</a> has agreed to a deal to return to Michigan for his senior year, he told <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/2042401643677798702?s=20">ESPN's Pete Thamel</a>.</p><p>Cadeau was named the Final Four's Most Outstanding Player after helping lead the Wolverines to their first national title since 1989. </p><p>The 21-year-old scored a game-high 19 points while adding 3 rebounds and 2 assists to secure a 69-63 victory over UConn. He also dropped 13 points and 10 assists in a dominant win against Arizona in the semifinals.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Cadeau started 40 games in his first season at Michigan after transferring from North Carolina. He averaged 10.5 points and 5.9 assists while shooting 41.1% from the field during the 2025-26 campaign.</p><p>The guard's confirmed return to the Wolverines comes the same day they <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3518864" href="https://thescore.com/news/3518864">secured</a> former Tennessee forward J.P. Estrella in the transfer portal. Michigan also received a commitment last week from five-star guard Brandon McCoy, a top 20 recruit in the 2026 class.</p>

College Basketball: NCAA Finals: Michigan Elliot Cadeau (3) celebrates victory with the trophy following game vs UConn at Lucas Oil Stadium. Indianapolis, IN 4/6/2026 CREDIT: Erick W. Rasco

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/35181720/related

Michigan's Cadeau agrees to deal to return for senior year

Florida made a splash on the recruiting trail Wednesday by securing a commitment from five-star o...

<p>Florida made a splash on the recruiting trail Wednesday by securing a commitment from five-star offensive lineman Maxwell Hiller, he told <a href="https://x.com/Hayesfawcett3/status/2042020990478176477?s=20">On3's Hayes Fawcett</a>.</p><p>Hiller is the No. 7-ranked recruit and the second-highest-ranked offensive lineman on the <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-sports/football/recruiting/rankings/scnext300boys/_/class/2027/order/true">2027 ESPN 300</a>. He chose the Gators over Alabama and Ohio State.</p><p>The 6-foot-5, 300-pound offensive lineman becomes the top 2027 recruit for new Florida head coach Jon Sumrall.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"(Sumrall's) one of the best coaches I've talked to," Hiller said, according to <a href="https://247sports.com/college/florida/longformarticle/florida-football-gators-recruiting-five-star-interior-offensive-lineman-maxwell-hiller-committed-uf-279767544/#2812055">247's Tyler Harden</a>. "Me and him get along. I feel like we have some similar mentalities.</p><p>"When I first took my visit to Florida, I came in with a lot of unknowns and seeing everything, and the second visit, I just felt so comfortable. I talked to all the coaches on the phone a ton throughout the weeks. I talked to them every day. ... I just felt so comfortable there."</p><p>Hiller, currently at Coatesville High School, is also the highest-ranked recruit in the state of Pennsylvania and is projected to play as an interior offensive lineman at the college level.</p><p> </p>

LEXINGTON, KY - NOVEMBER 08: A Florida Gators helmet rests on the bench during a game between the Florida Gators and the Kentucky Wildcats on November 8, 2025, at Kroger Field in Lexington, KY.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/35171421/related

5-star OL Maxwell Hiller commits to Florida

Kirk Cousins is excited to work under head coach Klint Kubiak after signing with the Las Vegas Ra...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14947" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/14947">Kirk Cousins</a> is excited to work under head coach Klint Kubiak after signing with the Las Vegas Raiders, saying he's determined to end his career on a high note.</p><p>"For me, I got more football behind me than ahead of me," Cousins told <a href="https://www.raiders.com/news/why-kirk-cousins-believes-las-vegas-is-the-perfect-next-chapter">Levi Edwards of the team website</a>. "And as a result, I see my time here as a great opportunity to finish strong.</p><p>"To leave a mark, to hopefully send things in the right direction, such that when I'm done playing, I can be proud of not only what we did in my time here in Vegas, but then what the Raiders are still doing."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Cousins joined the Raiders on a reported one-year, fully guaranteed $20-million contract. The Atlanta Falcons are apparently paying $8.7 million of the new deal, leaving the Raiders on the hook for just $11.3 million. Cousins' contract also reportedly includes a two-year, $80-million team option for 2027-28.</p><p>The 37-year-old is projected to be Las Vegas' Week 1 starter even with the club expected to select Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza out of Indiana with the No. 1 pick in a couple of weeks. Kubiak and general manager John Spytek have told reporters over the last few months that they aren't fans of starting a rookie out the gate.</p><p>Cousins appeared in 10 games for the Falcons last season with eight starts, posting a 5-3 record. He helped Atlanta win its final four contests of the year and finished the campaign with 1,721 passing yards and 10 touchdowns. Out of 35 qualifying signal-callers in 2025, Cousins ranked 21st in success rate and 25th in EPA/play, according to <a href="https://rbsdm.com/">Ben Baldwin's database</a>.</p><p>Cousins is entering his 15th NFL season after being drafted in the fourth round by the Washington Commanders in 2012. Cousins and Kubiak spent three seasons together with the Minnesota Vikings, during which the new head coach served as quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator.</p><p>"(Kubiak) called plays for me in 2021, which I look back now and feel like that was objectively probably the best season I ever had," Cousins said. "And I think a lot of that has to do with Klint and his ability to put together strong game plans and call games well.</p><p>"I think he showed that this past season in Seattle and the way he called games throughout the playoffs and on the big stage in the Super Bowl."</p><p>Cousins owns an 88-77-2 record and 44,700 passing yards during his NFL career with the Commanders, Vikings, and Falcons.</p>

TAMPA, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 11: Kirk Cousins #18 of the Atlanta Falcons stands on the sidelines during the national anthem prior to the NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on December 11, 2025 in Tampa, Florida.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/35159275/related

Cousins sees opportunity with Raiders as chance to 'finish strong'

Elliot Cadeau was named the Most Outstanding Player of the 2026 Final Four after leading Michigan...

<p>Elliot Cadeau was named the Most Outstanding Player of the 2026 Final Four after leading Michigan to its first NCAA Tournament title since 1989.</p><p>Cadeau matched his season high with 19 points in the Wolverines' championship win over UConn on Monday night. He also contributed 13 points and 10 assists in a dominant semifinal victory against Arizona.</p><p>The junior guard was crucial for Michigan on Monday, as both teams struggled from the field. Cadeau's 3-pointer with just under 13 minutes left in the contest gave the Wolverines their largest lead in the game. He also went 8-for-9 from the free-throw line and added two assists and three boards.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">ELLIOT CADEAU HAS THE STADIUM SHAKING 🫨<br><br>MICHIGAN LEADS BY 11 😳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MarchMadness?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MarchMadness</a> <a href="https://t.co/D0KwzaJgn3">pic.twitter.com/D0KwzaJgn3</a></p>— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarchMadnessMBB/status/2041342361159016591?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Cadeau's MOP award caps off an incredible turnaround season for the 21-year-old guard. A five-star recruit out of high school, he committed to North Carolina in 2023 and spent two seasons with the Tar Heels. He went 1-8 from the field with just four points in his final game at North Carolina as a sophomore before ultimately transferring to Michigan in March 2025.</p><p>Cadeau started every contest for the Wolverines during the 2025-26 season, averaging over 10 points a game while shooting 37% from the 3-point line.</p><p> </p>

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - APRIL 06: Elliot Cadeau #3 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates after defeating the UConn Huskies 69-63 in the National Championship of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 06, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/35151330/related

Michigan's Cadeau wins Final Four's Most Outstanding Player

From 68 to two. After three thrilling weeks of March Madness, a national champion will be crowned...

<p>From 68 to two. After three thrilling weeks of March Madness, a national champion will be crowned Monday night. While the Final Four didn't live up to the hype, this should be an incredible championship game between two heavyweights. Michigan is searching for its first national title since 1989, while UConn could become the first team since 1975 to win three championships in four years. Let's get to our spread, total, and player prop picks.</p><blockquote><p><strong>👉 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3516092">Will Michigan or UConn win the title? Bet it with theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796827/Game_Picks-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754581983" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796827/Game_Picks-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754581983 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796827/Game_Picks-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754581983 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796827/Game_Picks-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754581983 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796827/Game_Picks-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754581983 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796827/Game_Picks-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754581983 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-VH0VG" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/VH0VG/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="118" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=38e5b96b-7359-4d8d-8e87-ce4896ebad6e&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=6&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3516092">Pick: Michigan -6.5</a>
</h3><p>How could anyone bet against Dan Hurley? He's 11-0 against the spread in the Sweet 16 and later rounds and 18-1 overall in the NCAA Tournament across the last four seasons. The man doesn't lose in March, which makes this spread somewhat puzzling. But the Wolverines being 6.5-point favorites in spite of that tells us everything. Michigan is one of the most dominant teams in college basketball history, and one game remains before its coronation.</p><p>After annihilating Arizona - another team that's analytically considered one of the best teams ever - it's clear that Michigan's talent is far superior to everyone else's. UConn has limited other teams with elite offenses, such as Duke and Illinois, but the Wolverines' depth is their greatest strength. They include everyone offensively, plus they can score in the post and from beyond the arc. The Huskies don't have enough size to contain Michigan's offensive rebounding or interior presence.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>If the Wildcats struggled in that department, then any team facing the Wolverines will. It's hard to trust UConn's offensive creators, many of whom have performed inconsistently on that side of the ball, to score enough in this matchup. Hurley's game plan will keep things close, but eventually Michigan will pull away and hoist the trophy. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=c9698ac9-49e4-4039-b38c-1f1e32a88ff2&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3516092">Pick: Over 145.5 points</a>
</h3><p>UConn likes to play at a snail's pace, yet the Huskies are among the top 50 teams in points per game, and they've scored at least 70 in 15 of their last 18 contests. The game total has gone over in 11 of those 18 outings.</p><p>Michigan, meanwhile, is scoring at a level never seen in college basketball. The Wolverines, who are No. 4 in KenPom's offensive efficiency metric, have eclipsed 90 points in every tournament game, averaging 94.4 points over their five contests. The game total has hit over in each of them.</p><p>It's often said that playing in a football stadium can affect shooting, but both of these teams shot over 36% from distance in their respective Final Four matchups. With Solo Ball and Yaxel Lendeborg off the availability report, there's too much talent in this game to bet the under. -<em> Deeg</em></p><blockquote><p><strong>👉 <a href="http://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3516092">Bet on the national championship with the theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796847/player_props-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754583017" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796847/player_props-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754583017 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796847/player_props-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754583017 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796847/player_props-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754583017 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796847/player_props-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754583017 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796847/player_props-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754583017 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=66fc7992-40cd-464c-b600-279f03e61022&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab%2Fevent%2Fe3123015-9e61-4552-b69d-550f77b1f936&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3516092">Pick: Aday Mara over 13.5 points</a>
</h3><p>The 7-foot-3 center is coming off a monster performance against Arizona in which he scored a season-high 26 points against one of the best interior defenses in the country.</p><p>Michigan utilized Mara in pick-and-rolls all night, and I imagine the Wolverines will once again take advantage of his size. Point guard Elliot Cadeau was nearly unstoppable when driving the lane and throwing lobs to Mara on Saturday. Those actions will likely be a key part of the team's offense early in this contest.</p><p>UConn ranks 232nd in the nation in fouls per game, so Mara should have plenty of opportunities at the free-throw line Monday. The big man has eclipsed 13.5 points in six of his last eight games, and I expect him to have solid offensive production versus the Huskies.<em> - Deeg</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/35142841/related

National championship bets: Can UConn keep it close vs. Michigan?

If Braylon Mullins' game-winner to complete UConn's improbable comeback over Duke didn't excite y...

<p>If Braylon Mullins' game-winner to complete UConn's improbable comeback over Duke didn't excite you enough, then this should: Both Final Four spreads are expected to close under two points for the first time in over 60 years, setting up unbelievable theater Saturday night.</p><p>UConn and Illinois will kick off the festivities in Indianapolis, while Arizona versus Michigan has the potential to be one of the best tournament games of all time. Michigan and Arizona respectively own the third- and fourth-highest KenPom ratings ever, creating a thrilling matchup with a trip to Monday's title game on the line. We've got you covered with a spread pick from each game and player props.</p><blockquote><p><strong>👉 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3513261">Who's earning a spot in the title game? Bet on it with theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796821/Game_Picks-Blue.jpg?ts=1754581734" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796821/Game_Picks-Blue.jpg?ts=1754581734 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796821/Game_Picks-Blue.jpg?ts=1754581734 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796821/Game_Picks-Blue.jpg?ts=1754581734 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796821/Game_Picks-Blue.jpg?ts=1754581734 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796821/Game_Picks-Blue.jpg?ts=1754581734 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Twh67" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Twh67/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="119" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=64b298e4-09f9-4cc4-9d53-61b2a152b8ec&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=2&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3513261">Pick: UConn +1.5</a>
</h3><p>I'm done betting against Dan Hurley, who's undefeated against the spread in the Sweet 16 and onward. UConn's win in the Elite Eight demonstrated how much it wears opponents down over 40 minutes. After escaping Michigan State and Duke last weekend, the Huskies have a favorable matchup against Illinois.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Not to take away anything from Illinois' run, but its last three wins came against VCU, Houston, and Iowa. That's not quite the gauntlet UConn has gone through. The Fighting Illini possess the nation's best offense, but the Huskies own a top-10 defensive unit. This game will come down to whether Illinois can successfully limit UConn's offensive attack, which I'm skeptical of.</p><p>The Illini have mostly faced offenses - in conference play and the NCAA Tournament - that rely on guard creation and ball screens. But that's not how UConn operates. The Huskies' constant movement and off-ball screening make them incredibly difficult to guard, even though they don't have as much talent as previous squads. Illinois' personnel, mostly because of its size, isn't equipped to guard UConn's offense away from the ball. In a coin-flip game like this, it's also worth looking at the coaching matchup to find an edge. Hurley is in his third Final Four in four seasons and is undoubtedly the best coach in the sport. With nearly a week to prepare, he'll likely outcoach Brad Underwood, who's making his first Final Four appearance. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-gxCmp" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/gxCmp/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="127" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=148ff037-a919-47f6-8b59-ec2e10ebf701&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3513261">Pick: Michigan -1.5</a>
</h3><p>These are the top two teams in KenPom's net rating metric this season, and they're both among the top five highest-rated teams in KenPom's history. So, this contest isn't just the game of the year; it's a historically good matchup that doesn't come around often.</p><p>The biggest advantage in this game lies with Michigan, which is comfortable shooting from distance. Arizona, meanwhile, sits 338th in 3-point attempts per contest. The Wolverines have arguably the best defensive frontcourt in the country, averaging 6.1 blocks per game - the second-highest mark among D-I teams. It will be tough for the Wildcats to score inside, where they usually dominate. I foresee Michigan forcing them to play an unfamiliar style.</p><p>The Wolverines are shooting an insane 45% from deep throughout the tournament, and I think that's where Saturday's game will be won. I'll pick Michigan to cover this small spread and head to the national championship. <em>- Deeg</em></p><blockquote><p><strong>👉 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3513261">Bet on the NCAA Tournament with theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=aa49f095-7d28-4e19-b66e-7aed68761736&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab%2Fevent%2F13700454-2496-42ad-82e1-38b2d1971f00&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3513261">Pick: Alex Karaban over 12.5 points (-115)</a>
</h3><p>Alex Karaban's five-point outing in the Elite Eight almost sent UConn home, but that was a blip in what's otherwise been a solid tournament for the senior. Karaban scored at least 17 points in each of the first three tourney games. Even when he struggled against Duke, the volume existed, as he finished 2-of-10 from the field and 1-of-6 from three.</p><p>I'd expect Karaban's efficiency to improve versus Illinois, given the advantageous matchup. The Huskies will use off-ball actions to drag the Illini bigs away from the basket and create mismatches for Karaban. Illinois prioritizes cutting off drives, often surrendering catch-and-shoot threes, so Karaban should have plenty of looks from deep. I trust the nearly 38% 3-point shooter to have a bounce-back game. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=a836c3ef-1415-4933-a990-75bdf4276312&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=47&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=20&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab%2Fevent%2Fba826cfb-c3cf-4296-8c3d-985f43ddce26&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3513261">Pick: Brayden Burries over 2.5 made threes (+135)</a>
</h3><p>Brayden Burries is the only Wildcat who's made at least 50 threes this season. At this point, everyone knows Arizona can't shoot and rarely even attempts threes. It would much rather bully opponents in the paint and on the offensive glass. Although Michigan has a stronger front line than most, the Wildcats' approach won't change. The Wolverines are likely to sell out to protect the rim by packing the paint, sitting in gaps, and doubling in the post.</p><p>Burries will be guarded consistently because he's a 40% 3-point shooter. However, opportunities will be there for Arizona's sharpshooter, who has drilled at least three 3-pointers in three of the Wildcats' four tournament games. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=e5d3c89c-8d8f-4772-b9bd-68883c0f411e&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab%2Fevent%2F13700454-2496-42ad-82e1-38b2d1971f00&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3513261">Pick: David Mirkovic over 12.5 points (-115)</a>
</h3><p>Since mid-January, Mirkovic has averaged 14.9 points per game, and the freshman will cause fits for UConn's half-court defense Saturday. He can score going downhill and light up opposing defenses from deep. Mirkovic has been a massive part of Illinois' pick-and-roll offense of late, meaning he'll have the ball in his hands often versus the Huskies.</p><p>He tallied eight points against UConn in November but played just 18 minutes, his fewest in a game this year. Mirkovic has exceeded 12.5 points in eight of his last 13 contests. I think there's a ton of value here, as this number feels too low. <em>- Deeg</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/35105144/related

Final Four picks: Who will advance to national championship?

Arizona and head coach Tommy Lloyd have agreed to a new contract, he announced Friday.   The five...

<p>Arizona and head coach Tommy Lloyd have agreed to a new contract, he announced Friday. </p><p>The five-year extension, which averages $7.5 million per season, puts Lloyd among the top five highest-paid college basketball coaches, according to <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/2040118584572023177?s=20">ESPN's Pete Thamel and Jeff Borzello</a>. The deal also reportedly includes significant bonuses and an increased commitment to the staff salary pool.</p><p>The contract removes Lloyd from the running for North Carolina's open head coaching position.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Arizona basketball, you guys know what it means to me," Lloyd <a href="https://x.com/PHNX_Wildcats/status/2040118353243914602">told</a> reporters Friday ahead of Saturday's Final Four showdown with Michigan. "When I say it's a special place, that always comes from the bottom of my heart.</p><p>"I didn't want to make this entire Final Four about that because I'm just a small part of something much bigger. But on that same note, I'd also like to let you know that North Carolina is an amazing place. It's a one-of-one. It's an honor to even be considered for that job. The young kid - for me, the college basketball junkie - watching those games at home never would have thought something like that could have happened to somebody like me."</p><p>North Carolina's offer to Lloyd would have made him one of the two highest-paid coaches in the sport, reports <a href="https://twitter.com/MattNorlander/status/2040118749219414070">Matt Norlander of CBS Sports</a>.</p><p>As part of his new deal with Arizona, the 51-year-old will no longer report to athletic director Desiree Reed-Francois, Norlander adds.</p><p>The Wildcats have reached the NCAA Tournament in each of their five seasons under Lloyd, who led the program to its first Final Four in 25 years.</p>

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 22: Head coach Tommy Lloyd of the Arizona Wildcats reacts during the first half against the Utah State Aggies in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 22, 2026 in San Diego, California.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/35104812/related

Lloyd takes Arizona extension, rebuffing North Carolina

TCU and head coach Sonny Dykes have agreed to a multi-year extension, sources told ESPN's Pete Th...

<p>TCU and head coach Sonny Dykes have agreed to a multi-year extension, sources told <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/2040089423631593951?s=20">ESPN's Pete Thamel</a>. </p><p>Dykes was previously under contract through 2028, and his last listed salary was more than $7 million per year, Thamel adds. Details of the new contract have yet to be disclosed.</p><p>The 56-year-old holds a 36-17 record in four seasons as the Horned Frogs' head coach. He was hired in November 2021 after a five-year run at SMU, and also has coached at California and Louisiana Tech during his 16-year head coaching career.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>TCU went 9-4 last season, finishing the year off with a victory over USC in the Alamo Bowl. The Horned Frogs also ranked No. 25 in the final AP poll of the 2025 season.</p><p>Dykes' best year with TCU came in 2022, when he led the program to a berth in the national championship game. His squad ultimately lost to Georgia, but the Horned Frogs' 13 wins that campaign are the most in school history.</p><p>TCU will kick off the 2026 season against Bill Belichick and North Carolina on Aug. 29.</p><p> </p>

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS - DECEMBER 30: Head coach Sonny Dykes of the TCU Horned Frogs looks on during the second quarter of the game against the USC Trojans at Alamodome on December 30, 2025 in San Antonio, Texas.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/35103440/related

Report: TCU, Dykes agree to multi-year extension

The Las Vegas Raiders and veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins have agreed to a contract, his agent M...

<p>The Las Vegas Raiders and veteran quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14947" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/14947">Kirk Cousins</a> have agreed to a contract, his agent Mike McCartney announced Thursday.</p><p>It's a one-year, $20-million fully guaranteed deal, sources told <a href="https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/2039724181940797706?s=20">NFL Network's Tom Pelissero</a>. The agreement also includes a two-year, $80-million team option for 2027-28, Pelissero adds. The Atlanta Falcons will reportedly pay $8.7 million of the new contract, meaning Las Vegas is on the hook for $11.3-million of the guaranteed deal. </p><p>Cousins was released by the Falcons in March after signing a four-year deal two seasons ago. He started 22 games during his tenure in Atlanta, recording 5,229 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Falcons benched the 37-year-old for the final three games of the 2024 season in favor of then-rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199749" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199749">Michael Penix</a>, whom they drafted eighth overall just a month after signing Cousins to a massive contract.</p><p>Cousins started the final seven contests of the 2025 season after Penix suffered a season-ending knee injury in mid-November. He finished the year with a 5-3 record and helped the Falcons go 4-0 from Weeks 15-18 to close out the season.</p><p>The Raiders will be Cousins' fourth team since he was selected in the fourth round of the 2012 draft by Washington. He's thrown for 44,700 yards in 174 career games, and his $321.5 million career earnings rank third in NFL history, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/">Over The Cap</a>. </p><p>Las Vegas owns the top pick in the upcoming draft, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188217" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188217">Aidan O'Connell</a> was the only signal-caller currently on the roster prior to Cousins' addition. The Raiders are widely expected to select Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza with the top pick after the quarterback led Indiana to a National Championship.</p><p>Klint Kubiak, who is entering his first season as the Raiders' head coach after helping lead the Seattle Seahawks to a Super Bowl last campaign, hinted that he does not want a rookie quarterback to start right away for his team. </p><p>"Ideally, you don't want him to start from day one," Kubiak <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3511984" href="https://thescore.com/news/3511984">said</a>. "You'd love him to be able to learn behind somebody. That's in a perfect world. It doesn't always work out that way."</p><p>Kubiak added, "Sometimes they have to play from day one and it's our job as coaches to get them ready to go. I think it does help the player if they can sit behind a mature adult and watch how they run the show."</p><p>The 2026 NFL Draft kicks off April 23.</p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JANUARY 04: Kirk Cousins #18 of the Atlanta Falcons warms up prior to the game against the New Orleans Saints at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/35091115/related

Raiders, Cousins agree to reported 1-year, $20M contract

Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken told reporters Tuesday that quarterback practice reps dur...

<p>Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken told reporters Tuesday that quarterback practice reps during the offseason won't be evenly divided amid a battle for the starting signal-caller job.</p><p>"I wouldn't say they're going to be evenly dispersed, but we'll definitely disperse them to give ourselves a chance to at least evaluate who we have on the roster, whoever that might be, as we go through the offseason," Monken said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/48358201/browns-coach-says-reps-evenly-divided-amid-qb-battle">ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi</a>.</p><p>He added, "You'd love to be able to come out of the spring with a depth chart. That doesn't mean there's still not competition. But I do think you have to narrow the reps or at least balance up the reps of who you anticipate has come out of the spring certainly in a position to be a starter."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Monken also said the reps will fluctuate throughout the spring and that first-starter practice snaps will be based on "what we've seen in the past and where the year ended last year."</p><p>However, the first-year head coach wouldn't commit to naming <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210099" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210099">Shedeur Sanders</a> as taking the majority of the starter reps when offseason practices begin.</p><p>Sanders is entering his second NFL season after Cleveland drafted him in the fifth round in 2025. He started the final seven games of last season, posting a 3-4 record in those contests. Sanders completed just over 56% of his throws, finishing the year with 1,400 passing yards with seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Out of 37 qualifying signal-callers in 2025, Sanders ranked last in EPA/play and success rate, according to <a href="https://rbsdm.com/">Ben Baldwin's database</a>.</p><p>Sanders is competing with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/84667" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/84667">Deshaun Watson</a> and fellow second-year quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209984" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209984">Dillon Gabriel</a> for the starting job. Watson, who missed the entire 2025 season due to a torn Achilles, is now fully healthy and ready to practice. Owner Jimmy Haslem said Monday that Watson has a solid opportunity to be the Week 1 starter in 2026.</p><p>"Deshaun has a great chance, fresh start, offensive-minded coach, who has in his past been able to work with all kinds of different quarterbacks and make them successful," Haslam told reporters, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/48350090/haslam-deshaun-watson-great-chance-browns-starter">Oyefusi</a>.</p><p>"We talked to him the other day, he said he weighs the (least) he has in several years. He's in great shape, he'll be (in Cleveland) on April 7 when we start (the offseason workout program). Let's see what Deshaun can do. We're all excited."</p><p>Watson signed a five-year, $230-million fully guaranteed deal in 2022 after the Browns traded three first-round selections to the Houston Texans to acquire him. Cleveland restructured Watson's contract a few weeks ago to give him a $44.9-million cap hit in 2026, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/player/deshaun-watson/5596">Over The Cap</a>. He has two void years remaining on his deal after next season, with $35-plus million cap hits in 2027 and 2028.</p><p>The 30-year-old has a 9-10 record in 19 starts with the Browns, throwing for 3,365 yards with 19 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 07: Quarterbacks Shedeur Sanders #12 and Deshaun Watson #4 of the Cleveland Browns watch from the sidelines during the fourth quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Huntington Bank Field on September 07, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Bengals defeated the Browns 17-16.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/35071656/related

Monken: Browns QB starter reps won't be 'evenly dispersed'

New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh told reporters Monday that free-agent wide receiver Odel...

<p>New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh told reporters Monday that <span style="margin:0px; padding:0px; text-align:left">free-agent wide receiver <a target="_blank" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/50078">Odell Beckham Jr.</a> could be an option</span> for the team, according to <a href="https://x.com/art_stapleton/status/2038653440138879276?s=20">Art Stapleton of northjersey.com</a>.</p><p>Describing Beckham as one of his "very favorite people in the world," Harbaugh said the two still talk and text. The head coach added that both sides will have to evaluate whether a deal makes sense as the offseason progresses.</p><p>"The obvious, pad answer would be you look at every option, right?" Harbaugh said. "And if Odell's an option, then we'll be looking at it for sure."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Beckham remains unsigned after not playing in 2025. The NFL suspended him for six games in October for violating its policy on performance-enhancing drugs, but he's eligible to return in 2026.</p><p>The 33-year-old played under Harbaugh with the Baltimore Ravens in 2023. He most recently suited up for the Miami Dolphins two years ago, recording nine catches for 55 yards over nine games.</p><p>Beckham's best NFL seasons came with the Giants from 2014-18 after the team drafted him in the first round in 2014. He burst onto the scene as a rookie, totaling 91 receptions for 1,305 yards and 12 touchdowns. Across five seasons in New York, Beckham recorded over 5,400 receiving yards and 44 touchdowns before being traded to the Cleveland Browns.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174083" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174083">Wan'Dale Robinson</a>, the Giants' leading receiver in 2025, signed a four-year deal with the Tennessee Titans in free agency. However, the club has added pass-catchers for quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209911" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209911">Jaxson Dart</a> this offseason, inking <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174170" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174170">Calvin Austin</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/104617" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/104617">Darnell Mooney</a>, and tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174166" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174166">Isaiah Likely</a>. New York is also hopeful that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199759" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199759">Malik Nabers</a>, who suffered a season-ending knee injury in September, will return during training camp.</p><p> </p>

SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 12: New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham (13) looks on during the NFL game between the New York Giants and the San Francisco 49ers on November 12, 2018 at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, CA.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/35059433/related

Harbaugh: Giants could consider Beckham reunion

NC State is finalizing a deal to hire Tennessee assistant Justin Gainey as its head coach, source...

<p>NC State is finalizing a deal to hire Tennessee assistant Justin Gainey as its head coach, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JonRothstein/status/2038606882995081564?s=20">CBS Sports' Jon Rothstein</a>.</p><p>Gainey was promoted to Tennessee's associate head coach in 2022 and previously had stops as an assistant at Marquette, Arizona, and Santa Clara before joining Rick Barnes' staff in 2021.</p><p>The 49-year-old returns to his alma mater, where he played point guard for 128 career games from 1996-2000. Gainey also served on NC State's staff as an administrative coordinator and director of operations from 2006-09.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Gainey's hire comes one week after Will Wade took the LSU head coaching job. Wade spent just one season with the Wolfpack, totaling a 20-14 record and losing to Texas in the First Four game of the NCAA Tournament.</p><p>Gainey recently helped Tennessee reach the Elite Eight for the second straight year before the Volunteers lost to No. 1-seeded Michigan 95-62 on Sunday.</p>

KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE - JANUARY 04: Associate Head Coach Justin Gainey looks on during the first half of the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Thompson-Boling Arena on January 04, 2025 in Knoxville, Tennessee.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/35058240/related

Report: NC State finalizing deal to hire Tennessee's Gainey as coach

There are still some quality players on the open market as the major action in free agency grinds...

<p>There are still some quality players on the open market as the major action in free agency grinds to a halt. Let's play matchmaker with 11 of the NFL's top remaining free agents.</p><h3>Jauan Jennings ➡️ Chargers</h3><p>The Chargers have been rather quiet this offseason, with the only $30-million-plus deal they've dished out going to center Tyler Biadasz. When it comes to offensive playmakers, they could get Justin Herbert more help. Jennings is still on the market, which is surprising, considering his recent production. He put up a career-best 945 yards in 2024, led all 49ers wideouts in receiving yards last season, and has 15 touchdowns over the last two years.</p><p>The 28-year-old may have priced himself out of the market to begin the offseason, but Los Angeles has the third-most cap space and can afford to make a late splurge. All nine of Jennings' touchdowns and 88% of his receiving yards in 2025 came on throws traveling fewer than 20 air yards, making him a potential security blanket for Herbert. With Quentin Johnston being more of a deep threat, Ladd McConkey being smaller in stature, and the offensive line struggling at times, Jennings' physicality in more shallow areas of the field could fit the Chargers' offense perfectly.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Joey Bosa ➡️ 49ers</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828477/cropped_GettyImages-2248563919.jpg?ts=1774731915" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828477/w220xh124_GettyImages-2248563919.jpg?ts=1774731915 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828477/w320xh180_GettyImages-2248563919.jpg?ts=1774731915 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828477/w640xh360_GettyImages-2248563919.jpg?ts=1774731915 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828477/w768xh432_GettyImages-2248563919.jpg?ts=1774731915 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828477/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2248563919.jpg?ts=1774731915 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Owens / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Bosa isn't the same player he was a few years ago, but he proved last season that he can still be a consistent presence rushing off the edge. The 30-year-old posted 43 pressures, five sacks, and a league-leading five forced fumbles for the Bills in 15 games, the most he's suited up for since the 2021 campaign.</p><p>Of course, there's the appeal of him playing alongside his brother, Nick, but the 49ers are also in desperate need of pass-rush help. They ranked 31st in pressure rate last year and haven't done anything to address the position this offseason. Getting Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams back healthy will provide a boost, but San Francisco lost Bryce Huff to retirement. The team needs a deeper rotation of edge rushers if it wants to compete for a Super Bowl. And while GM John Lynch <a href="https://x.com/VicTafur/status/2038330565838155813?s=20">said</a> Sunday that Bosa is too expensive, it's possible the veteran's asking price will come down the longer he stays unsigned.</p><h3>Kirk Cousins ➡️ Raiders</h3><p>Cousins is the most intriguing quarterback left in free agency. The Falcons went 5-3 in his eight starts last season, and he threw for 1,721 passing yards and 10 touchdowns in total. Although the 37-year-old was solid down the stretch, he appears to have little to no market right now.</p><p>Well, the team picking No. 1 overall in this year's draft is a great fit. Las Vegas is expected to select Fernando Mendoza, who would join Aidan O'Connell as the only signal-callers on the roster. Raiders GM John Spytek told reporters in late February that he's not in favor of starting a rookie quarterback right away. If they don't plan on throwing Mendoza out there Week 1, why not have Cousins mentor the Heisman Trophy winner? The opportunity to start is likely a significant factor in Cousins' decision on where to sign, and the arrangement would give Mendoza the chance to learn from a veteran with 174 career games.</p><h3>Cameron Jordan ➡️ Eagles</h3><p>The Eagles will add a starting-caliber edge rusher at some point; it's just a matter of when. It's clear how much GM Howie Roseman values the position, and losing Jaelan Phillips in free agency makes it arguably the biggest hole on the roster. Philly signed Arnold Ebiketie during the first week of free agency, plus Brandon Graham could return. They also recently signed Joe Tryon-Shoyinka - but he's not a lock to make the roster - meaning the club still needs more bodies on the defensive line.</p><p>Jordan is searching for a new team for the first time in his career following a 15-year run with the Saints. Despite being at the tail end of his career, he totaled 10.5 sacks and 30 pressures in 17 games last season. He'll likely want to go to a contender that has a need at the position, and the Eagles fit that mold.</p><h3>Stefon Diggs ➡️ Ravens</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828478/cropped_GettyImages-2260278532.jpg?ts=1774732184" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828478/w220xh124_GettyImages-2260278532.jpg?ts=1774732184 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828478/w320xh180_GettyImages-2260278532.jpg?ts=1774732184 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828478/w640xh360_GettyImages-2260278532.jpg?ts=1774732184 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828478/w768xh432_GettyImages-2260278532.jpg?ts=1774732184 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828478/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2260278532.jpg?ts=1774732184 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Patriots released Diggs in early March after he led the team with 1,013 receiving yards in 2025. The move saved New England just under $17 million in cap space. GM Eliot Wolf said that the team hasn't ruled out bringing him back on a cheaper deal, but it seems unlikely, considering it gave Romeo Doubs a four-year, $68-million contract.</p><p>The Ravens adding Diggs makes a ton of sense. For starters, GM Eric DeCosta has targeted veteran receivers in the past, including DeAndre Hopkins, Odell Beckham Jr., and DeSean Jackson. Diggs has more in the tank than those former contributors did, and he would be a solid second option across from Zay Flowers. With Rashod Bateman taking a step back last season and Lamar Jackson needing another reliable target, Baltimore should add another pass-catcher before the season starts.</p><h3>Taylor Decker ➡️ Steelers</h3><p>Decker is still on the open market after requesting his release from the Lions in early March. The two sides couldn't agree on compensation for the upcoming season, so the former first-round pick is seeking a new home for the first time in his career.</p><p>The 32-year-old is coming off a solid season in which he allowed just two sacks and 28 pressures in 551 pass-blocking snaps. He's still a starting-caliber left tackle, and the Steelers should be in the market for one. Broderick Jones underwent fusion surgery to repair a season-ending neck injury, leaving his status for 2026 unclear. Dylan Cook did fine replacing Jones last season, but he's only made five career starts, all of which came in 2025. Adding Decker to the fold would answer the team's question at left tackle.</p><h3>Marshon Lattimore ➡️ Bills</h3><p>The Bills have made a couple of big moves this offseason, acquiring DJ Moore from the Bears for a second-round pick and giving edge rusher Bradley Chubb a three-year, $43-million deal. Buffalo also signed defensive backs Dee Alford and C.J. Gardner-Johnson, but they're both slot guys, and it could use another body on the outside.</p><p>Lattimore has struggled to stay healthy in recent years, playing just 11 games for the Commanders after they acquired him in November 2024. He hasn't looked like the shutdown corner he once was with the Saints, but the 29-year-old might still have some good football left in him. New Bills defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard, a former NFL defensive back, could be the guy who gets the best out of Lattimore late in his career.</p><h3>Tyreek Hill ➡️ Chiefs</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828479/cropped_GettyImages-2236648241.jpg?ts=1774732599" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828479/w220xh124_GettyImages-2236648241.jpg?ts=1774732599 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828479/w320xh180_GettyImages-2236648241.jpg?ts=1774732599 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828479/w640xh360_GettyImages-2236648241.jpg?ts=1774732599 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828479/w768xh432_GettyImages-2236648241.jpg?ts=1774732599 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828479/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2236648241.jpg?ts=1774732599 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Bryan Bennett / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Chiefs hold the No. 9 pick in this year's draft, which they could use on a playmaker for Andy Reid's offense. However, they lost Hollywood Brown, who recorded the most receiving yards among Kansas City wideouts last season. Meanwhile, former first-round pick Xavier Worthy hasn't been the consistent deep threat that the franchise envisioned when it selected him in 2024. Even if the Chiefs select a wide receiver at the top of the draft in April, they could use an established veteran on the roster.</p><p>Hill underwent surgery to repair a dislocated knee and multiple torn ligaments after suffering a gruesome injury in late September. It's unclear when he'll be ready to return to the field, but his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, said he will play in 2026. Hill earned three first-team All-Pro nods during his six-year tenure with Kansas City, so we've seen this pairing thrive in the past. Patrick Mahomes and the offense have struggled to hit deep shots in recent years, as he ranks 34th among 39 qualifying signal-callers in completion percentage on throws of 20-plus air yards since 2023. If Hill can still stretch the field after recovering from his injury, a reunion could benefit both sides.</p><h3>Deebo Samuel ➡️ Panthers</h3><p>Carolina has been active in free agency, giving Jaelan Phillips and Devin Lloyd massive contracts to help shore up its defense. It also signed Rasheed Walker, who could ultimately be a starting tackle in Week 1, at a great price. Despite those moves, the club still need more weapons for Bryce Young.</p><p>The Xavier Legette experiment may be on its last leg, as the 2024 first-round pick hasn't delivered the production that the Panthers hoped for. Samuel would bring a catch-and-run dimension to the Carolina's offense, complementing Tetairoa McMillan's deep-threat ability in the process. The 30-year-old is coming off a bounce-back season with the Commanders in which he recorded 727 yards on 72 catches and his 53.5% receiving success rate was much higher than his 2024 mark of 40.7%. The former All-Pro wideout would add a nice wrinkle to the Panthers' offense.</p><h3>David Njoku ➡️ Broncos</h3><p>After a quiet start to their offseason, the Broncos made a huge splash by acquiring wide receiver Jaylen Waddle from the Dolphins for first- and third-round picks. Waddle provides a vertical threat that should perfectly complement Courtland Sutton on the outside, but Denver could still look to upgrade the tight end position.</p><p>Evan Engram played well enough for the Broncos last year, and he's expected to return in 2026, but Njoku's presence would give them a legit red-zone target. Engram scored only one red-zone touchdown in 16 games last season, whereas Njoku had four in 12 games with the Browns. Joining Denver would also give the 29-year-old a chance to win a Super Bowl, an opportunity he never had during his nine years in Cleveland.</p><h3>Aaron Rodgers ➡️ Steelers</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828480/cropped_GettyImages-2256512011.jpg?ts=1774732966" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828480/w220xh124_GettyImages-2256512011.jpg?ts=1774732966 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828480/w320xh180_GettyImages-2256512011.jpg?ts=1774732966 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828480/w640xh360_GettyImages-2256512011.jpg?ts=1774732966 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828480/w768xh432_GettyImages-2256512011.jpg?ts=1774732966 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/828480/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2256512011.jpg?ts=1774732966 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Perry Knotts / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Steelers are in a similar situation to the one they were last year: patiently waiting to hear whether Rodgers will continue playing football. Pittsburgh hasn't done anything to upgrade the quarterback position this offseason, as Mason Rudolph and Will Howard are the only signal-callers currently on the roster.</p><p>The Steelers went 10-6 and reached the playoffs with Rodgers under center last year. However, he ranked 28th in success rate among 30 qualifying quarterbacks, and his best football is definitely behind him. With the 42-year-old being unlikely to play just anywhere and Pittsburgh having no Plan B at the moment, Rodgers returning to the Steelers for his 22nd season feels inevitable.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/35057975/related

Best fits for the NFL's top remaining free agents

Ohio State star Jeremiah Smith revealed that another program tried to lure him into the transfer ...

<p>Ohio State star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/195944" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/195944">Jeremiah Smith</a> revealed that another program tried to lure him into the transfer portal after the Buckeyes' season came to an end against Miami in the Cotton Bowl.</p><p>"I wasn't surprised," the wide receiver told reporters Saturday, including <a href="https://x.com/DillonDavis56/status/2037923283358654751?s=20">the Delaware Gazette's Dillon Davis</a>. "I knew, especially at the end of that game, that a certain program was going to come at me very hard.</p><p>"Not gonna say no names. I think everybody here knows who it was. But I wasn't goin' nowhere."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Smith didn't divulge which school attempted to poach him. However, he nearly committed to Miami before officially signing with Ohio State in December 2023. Smith even <a href="https://x.com/On3/status/1947750397382430981?s=20">said</a> previously that he spoke with then-Hurricanes quarterback Cam Ward before finalizing his decision.</p><p>The 20-year-old is a Miami native who attended high school at Chaminade-Madonna in Hollywood, Florida, where he was a five-star recruit.</p><p>Smith has recorded 163 receptions, 2,558 receiving yards, and 27 touchdowns in two seasons with Ohio State. He quickly ascended the national receiving ranks as a freshman; his 1,315 receiving yards in 2024 were the fourth most in college football.</p><p>The two-time Big Ten Receiver of the Year is expected to enter the 2027 draft and will likely be a top-10 pick.</p><p>Ohio State will kick off its 2026 campaign against Ball State on Sept. 5.</p>

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - DECEMBER 31: Jeremiah Smith #4 of the Ohio State Buckeyes reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Miami Hurricanes during the second half of the College Football Playoff Quarter Final Game at AT&T Stadium on December 31, 2025 in Arlington, Texas.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/35042838/related

Ohio State WR Smith resisted NIL offer elsewhere: 'I wasn't goin' nowhere'

And then there were eight. Although this NCAA Tournament has already produced more games decided ...

<p>And then there were eight. Although this NCAA Tournament has already produced more games decided by 20 or more points than any before it, we've also had our fair share of thrilling finishes - and we should see more in these intriguing quarterfinal matchups. We've got you covered with a pick for all four Elite Eight contests.</p><blockquote><p>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2F&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3508964"><strong>Who's headed to the Final Four? Bet on it with theScore Bet here</strong></a></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3508964">Sunday's slate</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-KRj1Q" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/KRj1Q/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="119" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=a4ff06a1-d6b9-4cb6-b895-90750cb65431&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3508964">Pick: Tennessee +7.5</a>
</h3><p>Michigan has rolled through the tournament without facing much adversity, but it'll likely encounter its first roadblock here.</p><p>Tennessee matches up well against a Wolverines squad that thrives on the glass. The Volunteers rank third in total rebounding and first in offensive boards per game. We saw this play out against Iowa State as Tennessee posted an absurd plus-21 rebounding advantage. Forward Felix Okpara - a key cog in the ninth-ranked defense in KenPom's efficiency metric - is an elite shot-blocker and interior defender who can give Michigan's bigs fits.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Michigan likes to play fast, but Tennessee can throw a wrench into that game plan - the team ranks 245th in tempo. That's huge for underdogs covering a spread. The Volunteers have also been great at keeping games close over the last couple of months, as they haven't lost by more than seven points in 20 straight contests. I like Tennessee to give the 1-seed Wolverines a fight on Sunday afternoon. <em> - Deeg</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-zeMRZ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/zeMRZ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="119" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=e16dbd9a-1c55-40c7-8b87-a4be7a8e6d18&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3508964">Pick: Duke -4.5</a>
</h3><p>It's hard to ignore Dan Hurley's 9-0 record against the spread with UConn in the Sweet 16 or later. But that streak must end at some point, and it will end against Duke. The Blue Devils might've faced their toughest test of the tournament in Friday's physical outing against a well-coached St. John's group.</p><p>Duke has struggled recently against frontcourt size and teams that pressure Cameron Boozer away from the rim. St. John's had the personnel to challenge Duke's offense. Instead, the Blue Devils only attempted 14 threes and dominated inside. If the Red Storm couldn't stop Duke, nobody can. While the Huskies were impressive against Michigan State, they don't have the frontcourt to stop Duke. Plus, Duke shot 16 more free throws than St. John's. The Blue Devils own real estate at the free-throw line this tournament, and that spells trouble for a Huskies team that's 227th in the nation in foul rate.</p><p>Finally, Duke is healthy at the right time. Patrick Ngongba II returned earlier this tournament, and Caleb Foster came back for the Sweet 16 after missing the last three weeks. Foster scored 11 points in 19 minutes. At full strength, Duke - which has lost one game since Jan. 1 - is unstoppable. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2F&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3508964">Saturday's slate</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Y5mjd" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Y5mjd/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="127" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=e022ad67-7878-4e16-b687-4d9933446af1&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=6&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3508964">Pick: Arizona -5.5</a>
</h3><p>Arizona is an unstoppable force defying everything we know about modern basketball. The formula for most teams these days is to deploy shooters and fire a ton of threes. The Wildcats have gone in the other direction, recording the lowest 3-point rate among power conference teams. So, how do they own the fourth-best offense? By dominating inside and relentlessly crashing the offensive boards to create extra scoring chances. Not a single team in the country is equipped to deal with Arizona's size and rebounding prowess; Purdue certainly isn't.</p><p>As prolific as Purdue's offense is, the Boilermakers barely - and I mean barely - snuck past Texas, and they struggled versus Miami in the Round of 32. Arizona, meanwhile, has the sport's third-best defense and has won all three of its tournament games convincingly. Purdue doesn't have the athleticism to keep the Wildcats off the glass, which is key to staying in games against them. The Boilermakers' lucky run will end Saturday night, while Arizona's inevitable journey will continue on to the Final Four. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-W7QDe" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/W7QDe/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="119" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=13e16bd7-33bf-4f5f-99d2-499d95a9f0ca&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab%2Fevent%2F8312c8a3-76c4-4fd2-9bff-b3ec6ed73643&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3508964">Pick: Illinois team total over 73.5 </a>
</h3><p>This line is discounted because Illinois' elite offense had an off night against Houston. The Fighting Illini shot just 43% but still scored 65 points and now get a better matchup versus Iowa.</p><p>The Hawkeyes rank 166th in opponent 3-point field-goal percentage, which is where the Illini thrive. They attempt the ninth-most shots from deep among all D-I programs, thanks in large part to sharpshooters Keaton Wagler and David Mirkovic. They also average 84.2 points and rank second in KenPom's offensive efficiency metric. But Illinois' biggest advantage is on the glass, where the team is ninth in offensive rebounding; Iowa is 355th. The Illini should have plenty of opportunities for second-chance points Saturday.</p><p>Everyone knows the Hawkeyes like to slow the game down, but that approach fits into the strengths of the Illini, who rank 325th in tempo. Illinois scored 75 points when these teams met in January, and I expect the Illini's offense to bounce back in the Elite Eight. <em>- Deeg</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/35030988/related

Elite Eight picks: Will Duke's run end vs. UConn?

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/brenden-deeg/content_cards

Brenden Deeg

News editor

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/sam-oshtry/content_cards

Sam Oshtry

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/jonathan-soveta/content_cards