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The article reports on CBS Sports analyst Jared Dubin's selection of the most important non-quarterback player for the Los Angeles Rams, identifying veteran wide receiver Davante Adams as that key figure. Dubin emphasizes that while multiple players could fit this role, Adams stands out due to his potential impact on the team's success despite not being a quarterback. Adams, a recent acquisition, was chosen because he fills a critical offensive need. The analysis notes that Adams was considered a strong fit for the Rams even before free agency opened, primarily because quarterback Matthew Stafford has historically thrived with two elite receivers. Despite his age, Adams remains a top-tier player and offers greater versatility in lining up both inside and outside compared to his predecessor, Cooper Kupp. The article suggests Adams could significantly elevate the Rams' offensive potential if he maintains his recent high level of play. While acknowledging that other newcomers like Puka Nacua, an offensive lineman, or Jared Verse might also be impactful, it underscores that the Rams specifically targeted Adams as Kupp's replacement, prioritizing his elite skillset above other offensive additions. Dubin's reasoning centers on Adams' comprehensive value: his ability to play anywhere on the field, his extensive veteran experience, and his status as one of the NFL's best current receivers, making him the most vital non-QB component for the Rams.
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The Las Vegas Raiders require talent upgrades at several roster positions, though they possess top-tier talent elsewhere. An ESPN survey of NFL coaches, executives, scouts, and coordinators ranked the top 10 players at every position. Raiders offensive tackle Kolton Miller, while recognized as one of the better tackles, did not make the top 10 list for his position. Despite this omission, an NFL scout described Miller as a very critical player for the Raiders, stating he had a slow start last season due to a shoulder issue but improved, is very consistent, and sits just outside the top tier of players. Miller, who suffered an injury last season like many Raiders, is now back and prepared for the upcoming season. He feels healthier than last year, having had significantly more time to prepare ("a lot more ramp-up"), which he believes will lead to improved results for himself and the team. Following Organized Team Activities (OTAs), Miller expressed feeling "great" about his health, contrasting it with his limited preparation time last year. Miller, a long-time Raider through ups and downs, emphasized his focus on daily improvement and leadership. He expressed strong approval for the direction of the organization under new head coach Pete Carroll, praising Carroll's emphasis on competition and making everyone better, including younger players. Miller specifically highlighted his enthusiasm for the pieces added during the offseason, the team's energy, and Carroll's approach, calling this OTA period "one of the most productive" he's experienced. He described the team as "flying around" and stated he is "excited where we're headed."
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Arsenal have spent nearly £200 million during the busy summer transfer window as they aim to end a five-year trophy drought. Signings Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, and Kepa Arrizabalaga have already bolstered the squad, while Noni Madueke, Cristhian Mosquera, and Viktor Gyokeres (after a prolonged saga with Sporting Lisbon) are set to complete moves to the Emirates. Eberechi Eze also remains a target. The Gunners have finished third in the Premier League for three consecutive seasons, coming agonizingly close by falling just two points short of Manchester City in 2023/24, before finishing ten points behind Liverpool last season. While they impressed in the Champions League, reaching the semi-finals for the first time in 16 years and notably beating Real Madrid 5-1 on aggregate in the quarter-finals, manager Mikel Arteta has not won major silverware since lifting the FA Cup in his debut 2020 season. Last season's challenge was hampered by long-term injuries to attackers Gabriel Jesus, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli, forcing midfielder Mikel Merino into an emergency striker role during the crucial second half of the campaign. The club has moved quickly to address this lack of depth, with Gyokeres' impending arrival seen as the final piece of the puzzle. Questions remain about how Arsenal will line up next season, including whether Merino will be rewarded for his emergency duty with a place on the bench, and how new signings like the £55m Madueke, Norgaard, and Zubimendi will fit into the team.
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Arsenal's ability to contend for the Premier League title next season hinges on signing a new striker, with Viktor Gyökeres heavily linked, though negotiations with Sporting Lisbon are currently deadlocked. Historically strong recruitment under Arsène Wenger yielded three league titles, but finances were strained after the 2006 Emirates Stadium move, leading to a title drought and key player sales. Despite a recent resurgence under Mikel Arteta, he faces pressure to deliver the league title, making strategic recruitment critical. The club's five greatest signings include Sol Campbell, who controversially joined from rivals Tottenham. The defender won two Premier League titles and reached the Champions League final with Arsenal before later managerial struggles. David Seaman joined from QPR and became a legendary goalkeeper, making 563 appearances. His era featured a formidable defense that secured two league titles and the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup, Arsenal's last European trophy. Patrick Vieira anchored midfield during three title-winning campaigns, known for his rivalry with Roy Keane. Post-Arsenal, he played in Italy and England before managing Crystal Palace and currently Genoa. Dennis Bergkamp, nicknamed the "Non-Flying Dutchman" for his fear of flying, contributed 120 goals and 116 assists in 422 games. Despite missing European away matches, his technical brilliance left an indelible mark. He now coaches in Ajax's youth system. Thierry Henry arrived from Juventus and became Arsenal's record scorer with 228 goals, winning two league titles before joining Barcelona. He later returned for a loan spell from the New York Red Bulls.
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Chelsea are reportedly interested in signing Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho, with Aston Villa and Bayern Munich also keen on the Argentine. Additionally, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain are monitoring the situation of Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, who is also a target for Barcelona. Should Liverpool sell Luis Díaz, they are claimed to be preparing a €130 million bid for Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior. Juventus striker Dušan Vlahović would reportedly prefer a move to AC Milan to reunite with former manager Massimiliano Allegri over Manchester United if he leaves Turin. Liverpool officials have met with Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta over a potential transfer, with Manchester United also chasing the Frenchman. Bayern Munich are reportedly ready to pay €100 million to sign Chelsea duo Christopher Nkunku and Malo Gusto. Brentford are unlikely to sell both Bryan Mbeumo (a Manchester United target) and Yoane Wissa (of interest to Newcastle, Nottingham Forest, and Tottenham) this summer. Arsenal will not entertain a departure for Jakub Kiwior despite signing Cristhian Mosquera. Nottingham Forest are working hard to convince Manchester City midfielder James McAtee to join them amidst Bundesliga interest; Everton, Fulham, and West Ham are also interested. Real Madrid have been tracking Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer, but Chelsea are not prepared to discuss his departure. AC Milan, having bid farewell to Theo Hernández, are chasing Real Madrid left-back Fran García, valued at around €18 million. Chelsea reportedly offered Barcelona a swap deal involving Christopher Nkunku and Fermín López, but Hansi Flick rejected it, although Barcelona may still consider Nkunku an option. Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman is reportedly interested in joining Barcelona, with Arsenal, Atlético Madrid, and Napoli also keen on the Nigerian. Giovanni Reyna is expected to leave Borussia Dortmund this summer, with a likely move to Major League Soccer and Los Angeles FC as the leading contender.
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Arsenal have returned from a warm-weather training camp in Spain and will spend time at their London Colney base before traveling to Singapore. However, Declan Rice and Fabio Vieira did not participate in the camp, while goalkeeper David Raya joined the sessions late. Rice's absence is attributed to following an individualized training plan, with reports indicating no concern over his non-participation. Meanwhile, Raya's delayed arrival resulted from an extended summer break that included his wedding and honeymoon this month, though he resumed training with the team in Spain over the weekend. Vieira missed the camp due to prior involvement in the Club World Cup with loan club FC Porto, which concluded on June 24th. His mandatory three-week break means he could return as early as July 15th. He is expected to be available for Arsenal's preseason tour of Asia and will train with the squad while his long-term future is resolved.
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During the NFL offseason, a viral debate has emerged comparing Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts and former Carolina Panthers star Cam Newton. Former NFL linebacker Will Compton has publicly favored Newton over Hurts, stating, "I think it's Cam Newton," while acknowledging both players' greatness. Compton emphasized Newton's unique impact, explaining that opposing teams had to build entire game plans around stopping him during his Panthers tenure. Newton combined rare physical attributes—possessing both the speed to evade defenders and the strength of a fullback—while also demonstrating consistent passing ability. Over his first eight seasons, he threw for over 3,000 yards annually, averaged 23 passing touchdowns per season, earned three Pro Bowl selections, and won the 2015 MVP award with 45 total touchdowns. The core of Compton's argument centers on Newton's singular importance to the Panthers, contrasting it with Hurts' situation in Philadelphia: "The entire pulse, the entire game plan was around Cam Newton," Compton noted, suggesting the Eagles have surrounded Hurts with more elite supporting talent than Newton had in Carolina. Despite his preference, Compton clarified he holds no disrespect for Hurts, calling him "a stud" and "great player." Hurts nearly won MVP in 2022 with 22 passing touchdowns, 13 rushing touchdowns, and 760 rushing yards, and ultimately led the Eagles to a Super Bowl victory in 2024, earning Super Bowl MVP honors—an achievement Newton never attained. Compton maintains Newton currently holds the edge in the comparison, though he acknowledged Hurts' championship pedigree and potential to shift opinions with more career longevity.
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Pewter Report is unveiling its Top 50 All-Time Tampa Bay Buccaneers list to commemorate the team's upcoming 50th season. Author Scott Reynolds is releasing his personal rankings over two weeks in ten articles, each featuring five players. His list includes 25 Super Bowl champions from the 2002 or 2020 teams and nine members of the 2025 team. The current article focuses on players ranked 21-25. The series began with ranks 46-50 and will conclude with the top 5. The article highlights running back James Wilder as a key figure from the 1980s era, predating stars like Mike Evans, Mike Alstott, and Warrick Dunn, and even the team's competitive period. Wilder, drafted in 1981, played nine seasons for Tampa Bay. He remains the franchise's all-time leading rusher 30 years after retirement, with 5,957 rushing yards and 37 rushing touchdowns. He also accumulated 3,492 receiving yards and 10 receiving touchdowns, totaling nearly 10,000 yards from scrimmage, making him one of the franchise's most potent offensive weapons.
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Brentford have secured the signing of midfielder Jordan Henderson on a free transfer from Ajax. Henderson, the former Liverpool captain, has experienced a turbulent period since leaving Liverpool in summer 2023, lasting only six months at Al Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia before moving to Ajax. Reports in January suggested Henderson was unsettled at Ajax and linked with a move to Monaco, but he remained with the Dutch club for the season, captaining the side as they squandered a nine-point lead in the Eredivisie title race. Becaming a free agent this summer, Henderson was targeted by Brentford, who have signed him to a two-year contract. Manager Keith Andrews stated the decision to sign him was straightforward after assessing his recent form, confirming his exceptional fitness and motivation. Andrews emphasized the need to replace experienced players like Christian Nørgaard, Mark Flekken, and Ben Mee who left the club. Andrews highlighted Henderson's leadership qualities developed during successful Premier League and Champions League campaigns at Liverpool, along with his experience and professionalism gained from playing for England. He believes Henderson will drive standards within Brentford's relatively young squad and be a brilliant addition. The 35-year-old Henderson remains part of the England national team setup under Thomas Tuchel, with retaining his international place considered his top priority.
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The Las Vegas Raiders have significantly evolved since relocating from Oakland, with owner Mark Davis reflecting on his father Al Davis's deep affection for the city. Al Davis frequently visited Las Vegas before training camp, enjoying workouts with his own weights, relaxing in the sun, and attending dinners and shows with his wife. Mark emphasized that his father was warmly received by locals during these trips. Mark Davis highlighted the Raiders' increased prominence in Las Vegas compared to Oakland, citing the city's transformation into the "sports and entertainment capital of the world." He expressed enthusiasm about the team's role in this new era. Additionally, Davis endorsed the upcoming move of the Las Vegas Athletics baseball team, believing it will enhance the city's infrastructure and appeal. Raiders Head Coach Pete Carroll credited the Davis family for the franchise's progress, specifically praising Mark Davis's leadership. Carroll noted Mark's strategic decision to bring in Tom Brady, leveraging his football legacy to create unique opportunities for the team and fans. He described the ownership group as "one of a kind" and expressed excitement about the immediate and long-term potential of this collaboration.
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Pete Carroll's arrival in Las Vegas has instilled a sense of genuine hope around the Raiders for the first time in years. He brings the approach that brought him success in Seattle, including his former quarterback Geno Smith and a key defensive piece: third-round rookie cornerback Darien Porter, who fits Carroll's ideal archetype for the position. Carroll is attempting to recreate the success of Seattle's famed "Legion of Boom" secondary, known for big, fast cornerbacks like Richard Sherman. Porter, standing 6-foot-3 and running a 4.3-second 40-yard dash, is physically similar to Sherman. However, he is still developing the necessary instincts after only recently switching from playing wide receiver. There are significant questions about whether the Raiders are relying too heavily on the inexperienced Porter. Following the departures of Nate Hobbs and Jack Jones, the team has done little to address the outside cornerback position beyond Porter and Eric Stokes, a speedy but inconsistent addition from Green Bay. Both are expected to start, meaning Porter faces a trial by fire where NFL offenses will likely target him if he struggles. Despite the pressure, Porter has strong support from Carroll, who has experience developing similar players, and defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, whose unit performed well last season despite injuries. If Porter can quickly adapt to the NFL level, he has the potential to become a star defender. His development will face an early test against Washington Commanders receiver Terry McLaurin in Week 3, and his performance could be crucial if the Raiders hope to make a surprise playoff run.
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Alvaro Rodriguez has expressed his desire to leave Real Madrid during the upcoming summer transfer window. This decision comes despite the fact that he previously turned down offers from both Barcelona and Manchester United in order to join Real Madrid, which he described as his "dream" club.
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Raiders head coach Pete Carroll stated he actively pursued quarterback Geno Smith from the moment he was hired in Las Vegas, expressing his desire to acquire him. While the Raiders considered other quarterbacks first, including Matthew Stafford, the team ultimately pivoted to Smith after Stafford decided to return to the Rams. Las Vegas Review-Journal's Vinny Bonsignore revealed he initially questioned if Smith was an upgrade when he received a tip about the impending trade. However, Bonsignore has since changed his view, believing Smith will be a significant improvement over Aidan O'Connell and Gardner Minshew. His initial skepticism reflected widespread doubt among fans and media about Smith, stemming from his journeyman career since being drafted in 2013, despite successful seasons in Seattle. This doubt was exemplified by analyst Warren Sharp's 2025 "Quarterback Tiers" ranking, which placed Smith just above the lowest tier, alongside Sam Darnold and Aaron Rodgers, sparking criticism and accusations of disrespect from some fans. Many outside the Pacific Northwest remain unfamiliar with Smith's successful years. Significantly, Carroll's strong belief in Smith is well-documented. The Athletic's Michael-Shawn Dugar, who covered Carroll and Smith in Seattle, described Carroll's profound affinity for the quarterback, stating Carroll "believes in Geno more than anyone outside of Geno’s immediate family" and talks about him with deep admiration. Carroll reportedly called Smith "one of my favorite players I’ve ever coached," a notable statement given his long coaching career.
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The Las Vegas Raiders' new leadership under head coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Spytek made significant roster changes, including promoting Jackson Powers-Johnson to starting center. This move made veteran center Andre James expendable, leading to his release at the start of free agency. James subsequently signed with the Raiders' AFC West rival, the Los Angeles Chargers. Raiders fans were unconcerned by James joining a division foe, viewing him as a solid but declining player no longer in his prime. Chargers fans initially believed James would be their new starting center, but he is currently listed second on the team's depth chart, confirming the Raiders' assessment of him as a backup-level player at this stage. The Raiders might have retained James in a backup role if not for his $11 million salary for the season. Compounding James' situation, the Chargers' poor interior offensive line performance last season prompted head coach Jim Harbaugh to swap center Bradley Bozeman and left guard Zion Johnson, moving Johnson to center despite him never having played the position. This decision is seen as a gamble and a slight to James, who has 60 NFL starts at center, indicating Harbaugh's reluctance to start him. James' decline is evidenced by his 2024 Pro Football Focus grade of 55.6, ranking him 47th out of 64 qualifying centers. While he might still earn the starting job during training camp or be inserted later in the 2025 season, the Chargers appear to be learning the same lesson the Raiders did: Andre James is no longer a viable starting NFL center. His current status as the Chargers' potential best option reflects poorly on their situation at the position.
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The AFC West division features the Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Chargers, Las Vegas Raiders, and Denver Broncos. The Chiefs have won the division for nine consecutive seasons and aim to secure a tenth straight title in 2025. Despite the Chiefs' dominance, their rivals have strengthened their rosters for the upcoming season. All three opposing starting quarterbacks share the goal of defeating Kansas City to challenge for the division crown. Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert enters 2025 with high expectations after a 2024 season where he threw 21 touchdowns with only three interceptions—a career-low interception rate. However, Herbert has historically struggled against the Chiefs, winning just once in eight career matchups against Patrick Mahomes. The Raiders acquired and extended quarterback Geno Smith, who had a strong 2024 season with the Seahawks. With "nothing to lose and everything to prove," Smith and the Raiders could pose a significant challenge to the Chiefs during their two 2025 matchups—Smith's first games against Kansas City since 2022. Broncos quarterback Bo Nix, after a promising rookie season, is viewed as potentially leading the biggest threat to the Chiefs. Many consider Denver the Chiefs' primary competition, and if Nix builds on his debut performance, Kansas City will need top-level play to maintain division supremacy.
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Netherlands midfielder Danielle van de Donk has announced that she will consider retiring from international football after the current European Championship, confirming this tournament will be her last major competition with the national team. The 33-year-old, who has earned 170 caps since her 2010 debut, previously indicated the 2027 World Cup might be beyond her reach. Speaking before the Netherlands' final group game against France, Van de Donk explicitly stated this tournament represents her "final opportunity" at the international level. While unsure if the France match would be her last appearance for the Oranje, she definitively stated it would be her final game at a major tournament, adding she would contemplate her international future after the Euros. Van de Donk, part of the Euro 2017 winning team and 2019 World Cup finalist squad, started the opening win against Wales but was a substitute in the subsequent loss to England. She revealed she managed a groin injury leading up to the England game, feeling fit on match day, but coach Andries Jonker cited a "miscommunication" as he had already selected his lineup based on her earlier fitness status. Both Van de Donk and Jonker downplayed the significance of this situation despite Dutch media attention.
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Uncertainty surrounds Liverpool's squad composition ahead of their preseason opener, with more player transfers expected in the coming month. Questions remain about which current players might depart. Real Madrid is reportedly interested in signing Liverpool's Alexis Mac Allister, a World Cup winner, as a potential replacement for the departed Luka Modric and to strengthen their squad. Mac Allister was a standout performer for Liverpool last season and is only entering the third year of a five-year contract. Consequently, Liverpool has no incentive to sell unless a suitable offer is made. The required transfer fee for Mac Allister is estimated to be at least €100 million, considered reasonable for a player of his caliber in the current market. To finance this potential move, Real Madrid might need to sell players like Rodrygo, having already spent over €175 million this summer. Despite the speculation, Mac Allister is viewed as one of the least likely Liverpool players to leave this summer, primarily due to his recent performances. However, a transfer remains a possibility if Real Madrid meets Liverpool's asking price.
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The Las Vegas Raiders' storied history is deeply tied to the late Al Davis, whose impact on the franchise and the NFL remains significant decades later. Though instrumental in building the Raiders' legacy, Al Davis never envisioned Las Vegas as the team's eventual home. On what would have been his father's 96th birthday, Raiders owner Mark Davis shared fond memories, particularly of their times in Las Vegas before training camp. He recalled Al Davis loving the city, the sun, and bringing his own weights to work out since hotel gyms weren't common then. Al and his wife would enjoy dinners and shows, with Mark noting his father was treated very well by the people. Mark reflected on Las Vegas transforming from the "entertainment capital of the world" to the "sports and entertainment capital," and the Raiders being part of that evolution across two different eras. Years after his death, Al Davis continues to command immense respect from figures across the league. Colorado Buffaloes Head Coach Deion Sanders recently praised Davis as a "legend," describing him as someone opposing players wanted to approach just to shake his hand and admire his style ("drip"). Sanders called Davis "one of a kind," a "straight-shooter," "innovative," "creative," and "before his time," stating that every player during that era wanted to be a Raider in some form, including himself.
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The Las Vegas Raiders are optimistic that their offseason changes will lead to improvement in the upcoming season, with the return of players like defensive end Malcolm Koonce, who missed the entire 2024 season due to injury, being crucial to their success. Ryan Smith of Pro Football Focus identified Koonce as one of five players expected to have a bounce-back season in 2025, noting that Koonce suffered a torn ACL just three days before the 2024 season opener. His absence significantly impacted the Raiders, who finished 27th in the NFL in pass-rush grade at 64.1. Koonce, a former third-round pick from Buffalo, saw limited playing time in his first two seasons (2021 and 2022), totaling only 116 snaps combined. However, he broke out in 2023, earning an 81.3 PFF grade that ranked 22nd among edge defenders, and was particularly effective in the second half with 38 pressures and eight sacks. Smith emphasized that if Koonce and fellow defensive lineman Christian Wilkins, who also missed most of last season, return to full health, the Raiders' defensive line could become one of the league's most improved units in 2025. Raiders star Maxx Crosby expressed strong excitement about Koonce's return, praising him as one of the best teammates he's ever had. Crosby highlighted Koonce's dedication, humility, and work ethic, comparing him to teammate Brock Bowers in his quiet, focused approach, and stated that Koonce's presence greatly enhances the team's chances of success.
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Tottenham Hotspur has announced updated ticket details for their pre-season friendly against Luton Town at Kenilworth Road on Saturday, 26 July (3pm UK kick-off). The total away ticket allocation is 1,646. This includes 68 seats, 1,435 safe standing spots, seven pairs for wheelchair users and personal assistants, seven pairs for ambulant supporters and personal assistants, and 115 restricted view tickets. Ticket prices are set as follows: Adults £15, Seniors (over 65) £10, Under 22 £10, Under 17 £5. Wheelchair and ambulant tickets are priced at the relevant category rate and include a complimentary personal assistant ticket. Children aged 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult over 18. Season Ticket Holders meeting specific points thresholds who applied by the deadline were successful: those with 282+ points received clear view tickets, those with 261+ points received restricted view tickets. Wheelchair Season Ticket Holders with 276+ points and Ambulant Season Ticket Holders with 375+ points were also successful. Payment for successful applications will be processed on Monday, 14 July, and tickets will be posted out on Wednesday, 16 July. The ticketing points total used to determine eligibility for this fixture is based on the points in supporters' accounts at the end of the 2024/25 season.
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Liverpool Football Club has announced the permanent retirement of the number 20 shirt in honour of Diogo Jota. This unprecedented tribute comes after Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, were killed in a car accident in Spain on July 3rd. This marks the first time in Liverpool's 133-year history that the club has retired a player's shirt number. The retirement applies to all levels of the club, including the men's first team, women's team, and all academy sides. The decision was made following consultation with Jota's wife, Rute, and other family members. The club stated the move recognizes Jota's "immeasurable contribution" to the team's on-pitch successes over his five years and his "profound personal impact" on teammates, colleagues, and supporters. Club CEO Michael Edwards emphasized the importance of involving Jota's family, calling it a "unique tribute to a uniquely wonderful person." Edwards stated, "By retiring this squad number, we are making it eternal - and therefore never to be forgotten," adding that Jota would "forever be our number 20" as he joined in 2020, won trophy number 20 (the League Cup), and wore the number 20 shirt. Additionally, Liverpool will pay tribute to Jota and his brother during their pre-season friendly against Preston on Sunday. This will include a rendition of 'You'll Never Walk Alone' before the 3pm kick-off, and Preston will lay a wreath alongside Liverpool's away supporters.
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The Las Vegas Raiders addressed their need at wide receiver in the draft by selecting Jack Bech (second round), Dont'e Thornton (fourth round), and Tommy Mellott (sixth round). While Bech and Thornton appear ready for significant roles, the team, operating in a win-now mode under head coach Pete Carroll, could still benefit from adding another proven pass catcher before the season starts. With limited appealing free-agent options available, the Raiders might explore the trade market or players cut by other teams. An article proposed one realistic trade for the Raiders: acquiring wide receiver Treylon Burks from the Tennessee Titans. Burks, a former first-round pick, has struggled with injuries throughout his career, playing only five games last season due to an ACL tear and missing significant time in his first two seasons. The Titans have reportedly moved him down the depth chart. The rationale for the Raiders trading for Burks is that he could contend for a starting or key depth role in their offense, potentially benefiting from playing with quarterback Geno Smith. The Titans might trade him to give younger receivers more playing time, likely settling for a late draft pick. However, Burks' health is a major concern; he likely won't be fully cleared for the start of training camp and his status for the season opener is uncertain. The proposed trade cost for Burks would be minimal, likely a conditional seventh-round pick dependent on him making the Raiders' 53-man roster. This low cost reflects his expected minimal impact, raising questions about whether acquiring him would be worthwhile for the Raiders, especially since they also want to develop their own young receivers during camp.
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The Las Vegas Raiders underwent significant changes in their secondary this offseason, with the cornerback position experiencing the most substantial overhaul. Only Jakorian Bennett remains from last year's starting group, following the departures of Nate Hobbs and Jack Jones. Their replacements—third-round rookie Darien Porter and former Green Bay Packer Eric Stokes—result in a unit lacking any player with over 45 NFL games of experience. Despite notable veteran cornerbacks like Jaire Alexander and Jalen Ramsey signing elsewhere, one experienced option remains available: 2019 NFL Defensive Player of the Year Stephon Gilmore. On "The Money Down Podcast," Gilmore expressed his desire to play this season but emphasized needing "the right situation," stating he can still contribute meaningfully. Las Vegas presents an ideal fit for the 13-year veteran. Gilmore would immediately step into a starting role while mentoring the Raiders' young defensive backs. He demonstrated continued effectiveness in 2024 with the Minnesota Vikings, recording 56 tackles, one interception, nine passes defended, and earning a Pro Football Focus grade ranking 93rd among 222 cornerbacks. Current projections suggest Bennett, Stokes, and Porter will start at cornerback, but their collective inexperience raises concerns about defensive vulnerabilities. While head coach Pete Carroll favors developing youth through training camp competition, the article argues that adding a proven veteran like Gilmore would provide immediate stability and leadership to the secondary.
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Barcelona's summer transfer activity has been limited so far, particularly after Nico Williams opted to remain with Athletic Bilbao. Their only confirmed signing is Spanish goalkeeper Joan Garcia, and the club is actively working behind the scenes to secure an alternative winger to Williams, with Manchester United's Marcus Rashford and Liverpool's Luis Diaz linked as potential targets. Amidst these transfer efforts, Barcelona are in advanced talks to extend the contract of midfielder Frenkie de Jong, as reported by Fabrizio Romano. Discussions have been held between the club and the player, with both parties keen to continue their association. Manager Hansi Flick is a strong admirer of De Jong and views him as a vital player for the upcoming season. De Jong's time at Barcelona since his 2019 arrival has seen ups and downs, and there were recent rumors suggesting a potential departure this summer. However, the club has shifted its stance and is now focused on securing a contract renewal with the 28-year-old. This change comes after De Jong reportedly parted ways with his former agent, Ali Dursun, who had disagreements with Barcelona that had impacted the player's future at Camp Nou.
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American international Malik Tillman has completed a transfer to Bayer Leverkusen from Ajax, signing a five-year contract with the German club. Tillman, who began his career in Bayern Munich's youth academy and spent nine years at the club before moving to Ajax, returns to Germany after spending only one season in the Netherlands. The move was initiated by new Bayer Leverkusen manager Erik ten Hag, who targeted the USMNT midfielder as a replacement following Florian Wirtz's departure to Liverpool.
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The Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers rivalry game is scheduled for December 7th, 149 days from the article's publication date. The article focuses on the emerging debate comparing quarterbacks Caleb Williams (Bears) and Jordan Love (Packers), sparked by FS1 analyst Danny Parkins declaring Williams is already better. Parkins bases this on Williams throwing only 6 interceptions in his rookie season (17 games) compared to Love throwing 11 interceptions in each of his two full seasons. While acknowledging Williams had an uneven rookie year (3,541 yards, 20 TDs, 6 INTs), the author views these stats as a solid foundation, especially considering the surrounding circumstances. The author finds Parkins' declaration bold but notes a concerning increase in Love's interception rate from 1.9% in 2023 to 2.6% in 2024, contrasting it with Williams' 1.1% rate as a rookie. The author speculates that Williams might throw more interceptions in 2025 under a new offense expected to encourage more risk-taking compared to the previous conservative approach. They argue that an increase in interceptions wouldn't necessarily be bad if accompanied by improvements in yards, touchdowns, completion percentage, and wins. The article mentions Williams' offseason rankings (29th out of 59 starters by one outlet, 24th out of 32 projected starters by PFF) as potential motivation, falling short of expectations for the top draft pick. Finally, the author expresses eagerness for the Bears-Packers rivalry centered on this quarterback matchup, highlighting Chicago's historical quarterback struggles against Green Bay. They hope Williams beating the Packers at Lambeau Field in the season finale will be his first step towards becoming the division's top quarterback.
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The San Francisco 49ers are focused on rebounding from a disappointing 6-11 season in 2024, with hopes pinned significantly on Christian McCaffrey's return to health for the 2025 campaign. McCaffrey, who missed most of last season due to injuries including issues with both Achilles tendons and a knee, is receiving strong praise from teammates during offseason preparations. Veteran fullback Kyle Juszczyk offered a highly optimistic assessment of McCaffrey's condition, declaring him "arguably the best player in the NFL" who "looks incredible, so healthy, and so explosive." Juszczyk highlighted McCaffrey's 2023 Offensive Player of the Year performance where he rushed for 1,459 yards with 14 touchdowns and totaled over 2,000 scrimmage yards, powering the 49ers to the Super Bowl. McCaffrey's 2024 season was severely limited by injuries, restricting him to just four games where he managed only 202 rushing yards with no touchdowns. The 49ers' offense struggled significantly without him and other weapons like Deebo Samuel (traded to Washington), causing the team to fall from NFC champions to last place in the NFC West. Juszczyk expressed strong confidence in the team's current trajectory, stating the 2025 offseason has been "one of the best summers we've had in a long time" with full participation and high camaraderie. He specifically noted the importance of quarterback Brock Purdy's contract extension removing uncertainty. Juszczyk himself nearly departed after being cut for salary cap reasons, visiting the Pittsburgh Steelers in free agency, but ultimately re-signed due to his deep connections with the organization. The upcoming Super Bowl being hosted at Levi's Stadium provides extra motivation, though Juszczyk emphasized the team remains focused on training camp preparation.
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