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Three Indianapolis Colts players who missed the entire 2024 season due to significant injuries are returning for training camp and will be competing for playing time or roster spots. Defensive end Samson Ebukam, who missed 2024 with an Achilles injury suffered in training camp, was a key pass rusher in 2023 (48 pressures, team-high 9.5 sacks). He will compete with Tyquan Lewis and JT Tuimoloau for rotational snaps behind projected starters Laiatu Latu and Kwity Paye. While acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding recovery from an Achilles injury, GM Chris Ballard expressed confidence in Ebukam's work ethic and stated the defense missed his physicality last season. Safety Daniel Scott, a 2023 Day 3 pick, has yet to play an NFL preseason snap due to an ACL injury as a rookie and an Achilles injury in 2024. He returns to a safety group where Nick Cross and Cam Bynum are starters, but depth is inexperienced. Scott will compete with Rodney Thomas and Hunter Wohler for backup roles, potentially aided by defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo's scheme that often uses three safeties. Both coach Shane Steichen and GM Ballard have praised Scott's intelligence and potential, despite his lack of experience. Tight end Jelani Woods missed the 2023 season with hamstring injuries and the 2024 season after toe surgery last summer. The third-round pick possesses size and speed that could impact the passing game, particularly over the middle. He will compete with Will Mallory (who had a strong offseason) for a pass-catching role behind Tyler Warren (do-it-all) and blockers Drew Ogletree and Mo Alie-Cox, as injuries have severely limited his playing time.
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A serious crash occurred east of Lincoln, Nebraska on Tuesday afternoon, resulting in two people being seriously injured. The collision was reported at approximately 1:20 p.m. at the intersection of 148th and Adams streets. According to the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, a semitrailer and a passenger vehicle were involved in the crash. Two occupants of the car—an older woman and a child—sustained serious injuries and were transported to a hospital. The driver of the semi-truck was not injured. The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Authorities closed 148th Street between Holdrege Street and Havelock Avenue following the incident. This is a developing story, with updates to be provided by Channel 8 (KLKN-TV).
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With the NFL season nearing and fantasy football drafts actively underway, identifying potential breakout players is presented as a crucial strategy for success. The article emphasizes that recognizing young talent poised for a significant leap, though easier in hindsight, is key to winning fantasy championships. The author announces a series of articles over the coming week, highlighting their favorite breakout candidates for every key fantasy position. This specific article focuses exclusively on running backs as the position being analyzed. The article concludes by listing the statistical categories for which 2025 fantasy projections will be provided for the running back candidates: Carries, Rushing Yards, Rushing Touchdowns, Receptions, and Receiving Yards.
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The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), an agency within the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is asking employees to fill critical positions that were recently vacated after incentivizing staff to leave, as part of broader workforce reductions. Agency leadership informed employees that further cuts are planned, but these specific vacancies are essential for mission delivery, such as roles for soil conservationists. Since January, NRCS has reduced its workforce by nearly 2,400 employees, representing over 20% of its staff, with a hiring freeze in effect until at least October 15. The agency plans to continue reducing staffing levels to below those of December 2019 before resuming hiring, after which staffing will be capped at that December 2019 level indefinitely. This follows a USDA-wide deferred resignation program that led to about 16,000 departures, allowing employees paid leave before exiting in September. NRCS is now the second USDA component, after the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service in May, to seek lateral transfers to backfill critical roles. The Supreme Court recently lifted an injunction that had blocked USDA from implementing widespread layoffs, enabling the department to proceed with workforce reductions. In discussions about internal transfer opportunities, NRCS leadership cited USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins' earlier comments on "optimizing and reducing the size of its workforce to become more efficient." This includes relocating many employees out of the Washington region, consolidating redundant functions, eliminating unnecessary management layers, and offloading office space. Employees expressed skepticism and low morale, noting that the agency implied their jobs could be at risk if they do not apply for transfers, while emphasizing that transfers offer no future job protection. Few are expected to take the offers seriously unless there are personal benefits like improved work-life balance, as morale is already depleted. NRCS is focusing on filling specialist positions, but employees raised concerns that recent mass firings of newer hires and incentivized exits of experienced staff have created a gap, leaving no younger talent to replace departing workers. One employee described the transfer solicitation as a sign that initial workforce reductions were "ill-advised at best." Employees can apply for up to three critical vacancies, with decisions made by state-level NRCS officials or their deputies. However, USDA will not offer pay retention, grade increases, or relocation expenses, though it will try to match current salaries. Applicants for Washington-based roles were warned they might face mandatory relocation later. Staffing cuts have already caused operational issues, such as increased workloads—one employee now covers 10 counties instead of four—and the loss of key expertise, including Geographic Information System specialists critical for mapping-dependent tasks. This has reduced capacity for programs like the Environmental Quality Incentives Program, which helps farmers improve environmental outcomes, leading to fewer application approvals.
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Manchester United have approached Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitiké to beat Newcastle United to his signature and are considering a player-plus-cash offer. Newcastle United, instead of pursuing Ekitiké, are preparing a €70 million bid for Real Madrid striker Endrick and are also interested in Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins, though his £90 million price tag is problematic. Newcastle are open to selling Alexander Isak for £120 million, a fee that could interest Liverpool. Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly ready to make a world-record €250 million bid for Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer, but Chelsea have no interest in selling. Crystal Palace are open to a swap deal with Arsenal involving Eberechi Eze, preferring Leandro Trossard as part of the exchange. Nottingham Forest reported Tottenham Hotspur to the Premier League over their pursuit of Morgan Gibbs-White, which derailed a proposed swap deal between Forest and Manchester City involving James McAtee. Manchester United, accepting no one will meet their €25 million asking price for Jadon Sancho, are prepared to lower demands in negotiations with Juventus. Man Utd are also ahead of Everton in pursuing Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz and are prepared to discuss a loan with an option to buy. Leeds United are interested in a loan deal for Real Madrid striker Gonzalo García, with Brentford, Sunderland, and West Ham United also showing interest. Liverpool's Alexis Mac Allister has turned down an approach from Bayern Munich, stating he would only leave for Real Madrid. Agent Jorge Mendes has repeatedly offered Bernardo Silva (Manchester City) to Real Madrid, but the Spanish club remains uninterested, even on a free transfer. Atlético Madrid have joined Manchester United in pursuing Lyon midfielder Corentin Tolisso, who Lyon might sell for around €25 million due to financial issues. Barcelona are ready to terminate Oriol Romeu's contract, with Girona looking to sign him on a free. Romeu is one of five players manager Hansi Flick is urging the club to offload, alongside Iñaki Peña, Pau Víctor, Marc-André ter Stegen, and likely Andreas Christensen.
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The United States Hockey League (USHL) has renewed its partnership with Drive Hockey Analytics for the USHL Player Development Combine taking place this week in Green Bay, Wisconsin. This collaboration brings advanced player tracking and performance analytics to the event, a key platform for identifying and developing talent. Drive Hockey Analytics will utilize its wearable sensor technology and smart arena systems to provide NHL-level performance data during the combine. The system collects objective, real-time metrics on player movement, speed, workload, and positioning, capturing details often missed by traditional scouting. USHL President Glenn Hefferan emphasized that Drive's technology adds significant depth to their Player Development Series, offering young athletes evaluation comparable to the highest levels of hockey. Following the event, each participant will receive a personalized performance report outlining their strengths, areas for development, and peer comparisons, designed to be actionable for both players and coaches. Drive COO Adam Nathwani stated their mission is to help players be seen for their on-ice performance, making elite-level feedback accessible to impact development and scouting. Drive's system has been proven reliable through deployment at numerous elite junior events, including previous USHL combines and league games.
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A Hudsonville High School football player, Ethan Carter, was shot multiple times in Birmingham, Alabama, while attempting to purchase a gun. The incident occurred near Winchester Drive and Ridgewood Circle just before 6 p.m. on Saturday. Police stated Carter was in the Roebuck area to meet individuals he connected with online for the gun purchase. According to investigators, Carter met with two people to buy the firearm. Instead, they robbed him, shot him multiple times in the head, neck, chest, and arm, and stole his vehicle. Carter sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to a hospital. Birmingham Police confirmed that no arrests have been made at this time. They strongly urged the public to avoid purchasing firearms off the street or through social media, warning that such transactions are extremely dangerous and often result in violence, advising people to only use legal and licensed dealers. Hudsonville High School provided updates on Carter's condition. On Sunday, they reported he was conscious, had full function, and was in an Alabama trauma unit. A subsequent update from Carter's mother confirmed he would not need surgery. According to NBC affiliate WOOD-TV, Carter has since been released from the hospital and is en route back to Michigan. Carter's coach, Leonard Stephens, described him as a focused, hardworking young man who earned a scholarship to Davenport University through grit. Stephens expressed his heartbreak over the news, offering prayers and support, and expressed belief in Carter's recovery as a fighter. Police are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact the BPD Robbery Unit at 205-254-1753 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 205-254-7777.
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The article predicts Angel Reese will exceed 12.5 rebounds in the Chicago Sky's game against the Minnesota Lynx. Reese leads the WNBA in rebounds per game (12.8) and total rebounds (244), putting her on pace to break the single-season record. She has been instrumental in the Sky's recent competitive streak, averaging 16.1 rebounds over her last seven games, including at least 13 rebounds in six of those contests. Reese has a strong history against the Lynx, grabbing 17 rebounds in their most recent matchup on July 6. She also recorded 19 and 16 rebounds in two games against Minnesota last season. The Lynx defense, allowing 35.1 total rebounds per game over their last seven (tied for 4th most), is susceptible to offensive rebounds (8.7 per game). Reese averages 4.1 offensive rebounds this season and 6.3 per game in her last three matchups against Minnesota, further supporting the prediction of her exceeding the 12.5 rebound line. Despite the Sky's 6-13 overall record, the article notes they have been playing competitively lately, covering the spread in seven consecutive games heading into this matchup, suggesting the home team could keep the game close.
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Penn State is positioned among the top contenders for the 2026 College Football Playoff title according to major sportsbooks, holding +750 odds at FanDuel. Only Texas (+500), Georgia (+600), and Ohio State (+600) have better national championship odds. Within the Big Ten, FanDuel lists Ohio State (+195) and Penn State (+230) as clear favorites, followed by Oregon (+330) and then Michigan (+1,000). FanDuel also provides several other key odds for Penn State: making the College Football Playoff (-185), going undefeated in the regular season (+450), winning 10 regular-season games (-320), and winning 11 regular-season games (+105). DraftKings lists Penn State as +125 to go over 10.5 regular-season wins and -150 to go under. For individual games, Penn State is a heavy 45.5-point favorite over Nevada in the season opener. They are also a 4.5-point favorite against Oregon for the "White Out" game on Sept. 27. For the Oct. 18 trip to Iowa, Penn State is a 10.5-point favorite. However, they are a 3.5-point underdog (FanDuel) or 4.5-point underdog (DraftKings) to Ohio State for their Nov. 1 matchup in Columbus. Penn State is also a 16.5-point favorite over Indiana on Nov. 8. DraftKings also places Penn State fourth nationally at +750 for the national championship (with Ohio State as the +500 favorite) and lists them as a -300 bet to make the playoffs. This optimism stems from Penn State's strong roster entering the 2025 season under head coach James Franklin. The offense returns experienced players including quarterback Drew Allar, running backs Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen, and five offensive linemen with starting experience. The defense features All-Big Ten and All-America candidates at every level, highlighted by tackle Zane Durant, end Dani Dennis-Sutton, cornerback AJ Harris, and safety Zakee Wheatley. Analyst Urban Meyer highlighted Penn State's high roster retention from last year's 13-3 team, stating fans should "watch out for Penn State" and placing them among the nation's top three rosters alongside Texas and Ohio State.
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Lionel Messi scored two goals to lead Inter Miami to a 2-1 home victory over Nashville SC on Saturday night in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, extending his MLS-record scoring streak. His performance was decisive in ending Nashville's club-record 15-game unbeaten streak across all competitions, marking their first loss since April 19. Messi achieved his fifth consecutive MLS match with two or more goals, setting a new league record. This win improved Inter Miami's record to 11-3-5 (38 points) and extended their unbeaten run against Nashville to 4-0-1 in their last five meetings. It also marked Miami's fifth straight MLS win overall and their third consecutive victory since being eliminated from the FIFA Club World Cup on June 29. Messi opened the scoring in the 17th minute with a spectacular free-kick that bypassed Nashville's defensive wall and beat goalkeeper Joe Willis. Nashville equalized in the 49th minute when Hany Mukhtar scored his 10th goal of the season with a header off Andy Najar's cross, assisted by Patrick Yazbek. Messi then secured the win in the 62nd minute by capitalizing on a Willis error, intercepting a poor clearance with his left foot, rounding the goalkeeper, and scoring. With these goals, Messi now has 16 MLS goals this season, tying him for the league lead with Nashville's Sam Surridge. Messi has contributed to 23 goals in MLS matches and scored 22 goals across all competitions this season. Both teams return to action on Wednesday, with Inter Miami visiting Cincinnati and Nashville hosting Columbus.
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San Diego FC defeated the Chicago Fire 2-1 in an away match on Saturday, extending their road winning streak to four consecutive games. Anders Dreyer scored both goals for the Western Conference leaders in the first half, netting in the 8th minute and again during stoppage time just before halftime. Dreyer's opening goal came after Luca Bombino delivered a precise pass through traffic to the unmarked forward, who calmly finished from close range. His second goal resulted from a well-timed one-touch finish off a cross from Chucky Lozano, marking his 11th league goal of the season. Chicago dominated statistically with an 18-7 shot advantage but struggled to convert opportunities. Key chances included Brian Gutierrez's point-blank attempt saved in the 4th minute, another blocked shot in the 24th, and Hugo Cuypers' missed header in the 37th. The Fire finally scored in the 87th minute when Cuypers converted a corner kick, but couldn't find an equalizer despite late pressure. San Diego goalkeeper Pablo Sisniega, making his first MLS start since 2023, made three crucial saves including a reactionary two-handed stop against Cuypers' point-blank header in the 84th minute. San Diego's defense also blocked seven Chicago shots throughout the match. With the victory, expansion side San Diego improves to 13-6-3 (42 points), while Chicago falls to 8-9-4 (28 points) and a 2-4-4 home record. San Diego has outscored opponents 14-8 during their four-match road winning streak.
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The article highlights the importance of late-round picks in fantasy football drafts for the 2025 season, emphasizing that while early-round stars form the foundation, undervalued sleepers selected later can provide league-winning upside. It presents expert recommendations for running backs outside the top 45 in half-PPR ADP as potential steals. Ben Wasley of The Fantasy First Down targets Isaac Guerendo, arguing that if Christian McCaffrey gets injured, Guerendo would become the San Francisco 49ers' lead back, handling 20+ touches per game with top-10 weekly scoring potential, offering unmatched upside for his draft position. Pat Fitzmaurice of FantasyPros also endorses Isaac Guerendo, noting McCaffrey's injury history and the high production of running backs in Kyle Shanahan's system. He cites Jordan Mason's performance last season (120 scrimmage yards per game before injury) as evidence but stresses that Guerendo must secure the No. 2 role over rookie Jordan James in training camp. Adam Dove of The Fantasy Couriers recommends Jacory Croskey-Merritt, a seventh-round pick by the Washington Commanders, highlighting his size (5'11", 206 lbs), the team's unsettled backfield (no 1,000-yard rusher since 2021), and his fresh legs from limited college play. He suggests Croskey-Merritt could gain a larger role by the fantasy playoffs, making him a valuable late-round stash. Jared Smola of Draft Sharks identifies MarShawn Lloyd as a steal, noting that despite an injury-plagued rookie year, he has a clear path to the No. 2 role behind Josh Jacobs in Green Bay. Smola points out Lloyd's potential as a high-upside handcuff and possible standalone value in Matt LaFleur's committee-friendly system.
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The article promotes fantasy football draft cheat sheets, highlighting expert analysis on draft targets, sleepers, overvalued players, and busts. It specifically details Pat Fitzmaurice’s tight end sleepers for 2025 drafts, featuring four players: Evan Engram (DEN): After an injury-plagued 2024 season (missed 8 games), Engram signed a two-year, $23 million deal with Denver. Head coach Sean Payton plans to utilize him as a versatile "joker" role—previously held by players like Jimmy Graham—emphasizing Engram’s run-after-catch ability. Though duplicating his 2023 career-high stats (114 catches, 963 yards) at age 31 is unlikely, his amplified role makes him a potential value pick. Kyle Pitts (ATL): Despite unmet expectations since his record-setting rookie season (first rookie TE with 1,000+ yards in 60 years), Pitts remains a sleeper at age 24. He recorded 47 catches, 602 yards, and 4 touchdowns in 2024. Factors like adapting to a new offensive coordinator and disappointing QB play (Kirk Cousins) may have hindered him. Optimism exists with increased system familiarity and new QB Michael Penix Jr. Zach Ertz (WAS): The 34-year-old finished as TE8 in half-point PPR scoring last season with 66 catches, 654 yards, and 7 touchdowns. After a slow start (1 TD in first 10 games), he scored 6 TDs in the final 7 regular-season games and added a playoff TD. Re-signing with Washington on a one-year deal, his strong chemistry with QB Jayden Daniels positions him as a sneaky late-round option. Brenton Strange (JAC): With Evan Engram’s departure, Strange ascends to the top of Jacksonville’s TE depth chart. Last season, he posted 40 catches for 411 yards and 2 touchdowns. In 8 games without Engram, he averaged 3.6 receptions and 34.4 yards. At age 24, his expanded role makes him an intriguing sleeper. The article concludes by directing readers to Fitzmaurice’s full cheat sheet and subscription links for further draft preparation.
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The UFC Nashville main event featured a heavyweight bout between Derrick Lewis and Tallison Teixeira on July 12th at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee. The fight aired live on ESPN and ESPN+. Derrick Lewis secured a dramatic first-round knockout victory over Tallison Teixeira. Early in the round, Teixeira landed a punch that hurt Lewis, causing significant trouble. However, Lewis responded with a powerful counter shot that knocked Teixeira down. Lewis immediately followed up with ground strikes, overwhelming Teixeira and forcing the referee stoppage. Following his knockout win, Lewis performed his legendary celebration. He also made a quick call to the president after his TKO victory.
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The Los Angeles Rams released camcorder footage on July 12, 2025, allowing fans to relive the team's best moments from the 2024 season, including game highlights and behind-the-scenes content from popular podcasts. On June 22, 2025, the Rams celebrated the birthday of former quarterback and Super Bowl XXXIV champion Kurt Warner by sharing highlights from his career with the team. On June 6, 2025, several Rams players, including tight end Terrance Ferguson, wide receiver Konata Mumpfield, inside linebacker Pooh Paul, running back Jarquez Hunter, outside linebacker Josaiah Stewart, and defensive tackle Ty Hamilton, were featured attempting to build a ram structure from blocks. On May 29, 2025, the Los Angeles Rams surprised members of their 2025 rookie class with video messages from friends and family; reactions from players like tight end Terrance Ferguson and outside linebacker Josaiah Stewart were shared. The Rams celebrated the birthday of team legend Vince Ferragamo on April 24, 2025, by releasing highlights showcasing his career with the franchise. On April 10, 2025, Los Angeles Rams players, including outside linebacker Jared Verse and offensive lineman Steve Avila, received a sneak peek at the return of Call of Duty: Warzone and Verdansk. Prior to the Los Angeles Rams' Week 18 game against the Seattle Seahawks on January 6, 2025, Ricky Hollywood conducted interviews with young Rams fans.
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Brandon Ingram, now with the Toronto Raptors, is determined to reestablish himself as a top NBA player after injuries and disappointing seasons sidelined him. As a former No. 2 overall draft pick, Los Angeles Laker, and All-Star, he fell off the radar following a high-ankle sprain that limited him to just 18 games last season, none since his trade to the Raptors in February. Ingram, healthy again, aims to showcase his full skill set as the offensive focal point, emphasizing playmaking, movement without the ball, three-point shooting, and competitiveness. His quiet confidence resonates with Raptors fans, who hope he can deliver on his talent, which includes career averages of at least 23 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.2 assists over the past six seasons, with a 37.2% three-point shooting rate. However, durability remains a significant risk, as he has averaged only 51 games per season during that span. The Raptors accepted this gamble by trading for him and signing him to a $120 million, three-year contract extension. After months of recovery—which Ingram described as unexpectedly challenging due to severe swelling—he was cleared for full 5-on-5 play in July. He credits the Raptors' training staff for their support and is now optimistic about the team's playoff chances, despite low external expectations, such as an over-under win total of 32.5 for the upcoming season. Ingram confidently predicts a playoff berth, highlighting the team's hard-playing defensive identity and his intention to help build "championship habits" by establishing a cohesive offensive identity without disrupting their existing effort.
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The Wimbledon men's singles final features a highly anticipated matchup between top-seeded Jannik Sinner and second-seeded Carlos Alcaraz, fulfilling a dream scenario predicted since the tournament's start. Comparatively, the last Stanley Cup Final between teams with the NHL's two best regular-season records occurred 36 years ago in 1989, when first-seeded Calgary defeated second-seeded Montreal in six games. Since that season, the NHL's top regular-season team has reached the final only 10 times across 36 tournaments, while the second-best team advanced just five times. Furthermore, both top-ranked teams simultaneously reached the conference finals (semifinals) in only six of those 36 tournaments. This rarity is attributed partly to frequent playoff upsets—illustrated by Coco Gauff's early Wimbledon exit—and partly to the NHL's playoff bracket format implemented in 2014.
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FC Dallas announced on Saturday that they have transferred forward Leó Chú to Portuguese top-flight club FC Alverca. The 25-year-old Brazilian forward spent half a season with Dallas after being acquired in January, as part of a trade that sent Jesús Ferreira to Seattle Sounders FC. Chú made four appearances for Dallas, scoring one goal, and previously joined Seattle in August 2021 from Brazilian club Grêmio, completing four total seasons in MLS. FC Alverca, the receiving club, recently earned promotion to Liga Portugal and is co-owned by Real Madrid and Brazil superstar Vinicius Junior.
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Manchester United are reportedly major admirers of Real Madrid winger Rodrygo and are seeking another attacking signing after their pursuit of Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo. They are also among several clubs, including Atlético Madrid and Juventus, ready to meet Sporting CP's demands for striker Viktor Gyökeres if he becomes available. Arsenal and Chelsea have both inquired about Barcelona midfielder Marc Casadó, with Manchester United also showing interest. Chelsea are additionally linked with a move for Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, whose contract expires soon with no extension progress. Newcastle United have renewed their interest in Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitiké but face a potential €100 million asking price. Flamengo right-back Wesley is in advanced talks with Roma, though Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is reportedly trying to intervene. Tottenham Hotspur are considering a move for Bayern Munich midfielder João Palhinha and have reportedly made contact; Fulham, West Ham United, Aston Villa, and Brighton & Hove Albion are also interested in the player. Meanwhile, Fenerbahçe have opened talks with Aston Villa regarding winger Leon Bailey. Real Madrid are reportedly prepared to sell Vinicius Junior this summer for €150 million, fueled by frustrations over his form and concerns about his incompatibility with Kylian Mbappé; the club would choose Mbappé over Vinicius. Barcelona have identified AC Milan's Rafael Leão as their alternative target if they cannot sign Manchester United's Marcus Rashford, with RB Leipzig's Antonio Nusa as a further option; Barcelona sporting director Deco is reportedly unconvinced by the value of a Rashford move. Real Madrid have reportedly reached an agreement on personal terms with Liverpool center-back Ibrahima Konaté and are ready to pay Liverpool's €50 million asking price immediately.
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The Toronto Blue Jays hold the No. 8 pick in the upcoming MLB Draft, aiming to bolster their farm system amid recent momentum. Due to signing Anthony Santander in the offseason, they sacrificed their second-round pick and must maximize their $10,314,600 bonus pool (20th in MLB). The draft will occur on July 13 (Rounds 1-3) and July 14 (Rounds 4-20), led by amateur scouting director Marc Tramuta. Tramuta emphasizes targeting athletic, versatile players, particularly shortstops capable of playing multiple positions like second base, third base, or center field to enhance their path to the majors. Regarding pitching, he reflects on past tendencies with the Mets to prioritize right-handers but now values "big, physical" athletes who throw strikes with multiple pitches, referencing 2023 draftees Trey Yesavage, Khal Stephen, and Johnny King. The Blue Jays are increasing collaboration between their draft and player development teams, soliciting advance input on prospect development plans to inform strategy. Tramuta stresses this synergy builds organizational continuity, contrasting with practices from 10–20 years ago. Last year’s top pick, right-hander Trey Yesavage (No. 20), has excelled with a 3.19 ERA and 111 strikeouts over 67.2 innings, potentially reaching Triple-A by late 2025. Third-round left-hander Johnny King, 18, has emerged as a breakout prospect with a 1.86 ERA and 51 strikeouts in 29 innings. Tramuta aims to finalize draft decisions early to avoid signability pressures but acknowledges money and patience factor in. He cites Mark Vientos—a 2017 Mets draft pick who succeeded in 2024—as evidence that development timelines vary. The No. 8 selection will join a rising system rather than needing to "save" it outright.
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The Minnesota Lynx waived forward Alissa Pili on Saturday, just before the WNBA's July 13 cutdown deadline. This deadline is significant because after Sunday, teams can no longer waive players on unprotected contracts without absorbing their full salaries for the season. This rule includes rookie contracts, which don't become fully guaranteed until a player's fourth WNBA season. Pili, the eighth overall pick in the 2024 draft out of Utah, had signed a three-year deal with the Lynx. In 15 games this season, she averaged 1.9 points and 1.2 rebounds in 5.9 minutes per game. Waiving Pili provides the Lynx with roster flexibility. This move is particularly important as elite Belgian forward Emma Meesseman is expected to return to the WNBA. Meesseman, widely regarded as the best player not currently on a WNBA roster, recently led Belgium to the EuroBasket championship and was named tournament MVP. She has existing ties to the Lynx organization, having played overseas with Lynx stars Napheesa Collier and Kayla McBride, and being coached by current Lynx associate head coach Eric Thibault. Collier publicly expressed strong support for signing Meesseman, calling her a perfect fit and stating her addition would significantly boost the Lynx's championship chances. Meesseman, a two-time All-Star and 2019 Finals MVP, last played in the WNBA in 2022. Her arrival would strengthen the Lynx, who currently lead the WNBA standings.
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The Limerick Live section of the Limerick Leader website provides comprehensive coverage of news and events specifically for Limerick and County Limerick. It features live, breaking local news across various domains including sport, politics, and weather. Key content areas include all the latest breaking local news, up-to-date sports news, and broader Irish news updates from around the country. It also highlights local happenings and events within Limerick and County Limerick. Additional offerings encompass Life Magazines, award-winning photography and picture galleries, the latest business news, property listings, motoring reviews and news, the Met Éireann weather forecast for the region, and recent death notices and obituaries.
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As NFL training camps begin, The Fantasy Footballers Podcast is previewing each division for fantasy football. Following coverage of the AFC East, North, and South, they turn to the AFC West – a division that sent three teams to the playoffs last season. While the Kansas City Chiefs have dominated the AFC West for nearly a decade, winning nine consecutive titles, their path to a tenth title is less clear after the Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Chargers significantly improved in 2024, both winning 10 games and making the playoffs. The analysis focuses on the Kansas City Chiefs, who hold an 11.5 Vegas projected win total for 2025. Key roster changes include additions of RB Elijah Mitchell, RB Kareem Hunt, and WR Juju Smith-Schuster, alongside the departures of WR DeAndre Hopkins, WR Justin Watson, and RB Samaje Perine. Rookies added are WR Jalen Royals (Round 4) and RB Brashard Smith (Round 7). Quarterback Patrick Mahomes has an impressive 33-5 career record against the division, but his fantasy performance has declined recently. He finished as QB8 and QB11 over the last two seasons and received an "F" in the Ballers' Consistency Ratings over his last 17 games, posting career lows in several passing categories and scoring 20+ fantasy points in only 23.5% of those games. Hope for Mahomes' fantasy rebound hinges on young WRs Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy. Rice started 2024 strong, averaging 17.6 fantasy points per game with a 35% target rate per route before injury. Worthy's rookie speed offered promise. Veteran Marquise Brown, returning from injury, could contribute in deeper leagues. The key question is which WR emerges as the primary target. Tight end Travis Kelce showed signs of decline, finishing outside the top 5 TEs in 2024 for the first time since 2016 despite leading TEs in red zone targets. His draft capital reflects this, falling to the late 6th round. The biggest fantasy uncertainty is the Chiefs' backfield. Starter Isiah Pacheco suffered a fractured fibula early in 2024, leading to a split workload with Kareem Hunt by season's end. If healthy, Pacheco could reclaim his role of 15+ touches per game. However, the re-signing of Hunt suggests a potential committee approach. Rookie Brashard Smith, a converted WR with explosive athleticism, is a wild card who could earn PPR value in the passing game.
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The article highlights six fantasy football players considered valuable draft picks for 2025 redraft leagues based on Sleeper ADP: Bo Nix (QB, Broncos) is viewed as an underrated quarterback after a strong finish to his rookie season (QB3 from Week 16-18). With additions to his receiving corps (Evan Engram, Pat Bryant), he has significant upside and could be among the league leaders in passing touchdowns. Christian McCaffrey (RB, 49ers) carries injury risk after missing 13 games in 2023, but remains a top fantasy option. He was the RB1 in 2023, averaging 24.5 PPR points per game, and his upside is too high to justify drafting him only in the second round despite the risk. D'Andre Swift (RB, Bears) is positioned for a potential career year. With Chicago not adding significant competition at running back and improving their offensive line, Swift, who finished as RB19 in 2023, has a clear path to the lead role in a favorable offense. Stefon Diggs (WR, Patriots) was playing at a high level (WR6 through Week 7) before tearing his ACL in Week 8. As the unquestioned top receiver in an expectedly improved Patriots passing attack, he is projected to finish no lower than a high-end WR3 if healthy for Week 1. Darnell Mooney (WR, Falcons) is considered vastly underrated (ADP outside top-48 WRs). Despite finishing as the WR31 last year with career-high touchdowns and strong efficiency metrics (top 36 in air-yard share, first-read target share, deep targets), he presents significant draft value. Tucker Kraft (TE, Packers) was the TE10 in 2023 and led his team in receiving touchdowns. Despite a modest target per route run rate (17%, ranked 26th), he excelled in efficiency (7th in yards per route run, 1st in YAC per reception) and has the potential to lead all tight ends in receiving touchdowns this season.
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The San Francisco Giants defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers 8-7 on Friday night, handing the Dodgers their seventh consecutive loss. The Giants moved within four games of the first-place Dodgers in the NL West, with key contributions from Willy Adames, who homered in the second inning and hit a two-run triple during the team's five-run fifth inning. San Francisco took the lead in the fourth inning when Jung Hoo Lee hit a two-run triple off Dodgers pitcher Dustin May. In the fifth, Dominic Smith homered to lead off, and Lee added an infield single to drive in another run. For the Dodgers, Shohei Ohtani hit a go-ahead two-run homer in the third inning, his 32nd of the season, which traveled 410 feet into McCovey Cove. Giants starter Logan Webb allowed six runs and six hits over 5 1/3 innings, striking out six, but was chased in the sixth after giving up a two-run homer to Michael Conforto. Closer Camilo Doval secured his 15th save by inducing a game-ending double play from Will Smith after allowing a single to Mookie Betts and a walk to Freddie Freeman. Dustin May took the loss for the Dodgers, surrendering seven earned runs on five hits in 4 2/3 innings. This losing streak is the Dodgers' worst since September 2017, when they dropped 11 in a row. In a key play, Jung Hoo Lee was called out at home in the fifth inning on a fly ball by Casey Schmitt and a throw from left fielder Michael Conforto; the call was upheld after a Giants challenge. Ohtani's home run was the 65th by an opponent to land in the water at Oracle Park, part of 171 total such homers in the ballpark's history.
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The Phoenix Suns defeated the Washington Wizards 103-84 in their NBA Summer League opener at the Thomas & Mack Arena in Las Vegas. Sophomores Ryan Dunn (17 points) and Oso Ighodaro (11 points, 14 rebounds) delivered strong performances. Rookie Koby Brea was a standout surprise, leading the Suns with 19 points, including going 4-of-5 from three-point range. The Suns starters were Yuri Collins (point guard), Koby Brea (shooting guard), Ryan Dunn (wing), Oso Ighodaro (forward), and Khaman Maluach (center). The first quarter featured frenetic, turnover-heavy play typical of Summer League, ending tied 23-23. Ighodaro played a key role in the quarter with solid, turnover-free minutes. The Suns took control in the second quarter, outscoring the Wizards 24-16 to lead 47-39 at halftime. Koby Brea excelled during this period, showcasing a smooth shooting stroke and hitting 3-of-4 three-pointers in the quarter. The Suns extended their lead further in the third quarter, outscoring the Wizards 28-21.
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The Player Status Report for Orlando City SC's match against CF Montréal on Saturday, kicking off at 7:30 p.m. ET, indicates no players are listed as QUESTIONABLE for the game. The match will be streamed live on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV, and tickets remain available for purchase. Four players are ruled OUT due to injuries: Wilder Cartagena (season-ending injury), Joran Gerbet (thigh injury), Duncan McGuire (shoulder injury), and Yutaro Tsukada (season-ending injury). Additionally, two players face SUSPENSION: Pedro Gallese and Robin Jansson are both unavailable due to yellow card accumulation. No players are absent for INTERNATIONAL DUTY, leaving all other squad members eligible for selection.
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