Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders believes he's more prepared for the NFL after learni...

Cleveland Browns quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210099" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210099">Shedeur Sanders</a> believes he's more prepared for the NFL after learning from a roller-coaster rookie season."I'm thankful that everything happened how it happened," Sanders said Tuesday after Day 1 of the Browns' three-day voluntary veteran minicamp. "I'm thankful that my appreciation for a lot of things is what it is now."He added, "I'm just happy, I'm thankful, I'm blessed. I was in a position to where I can handle everything that comes my way. So, now I feel bulletproof."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Sanders' NFL journey started with a shocking fall in the 2025 NFL Draft. Once labeled a top quarterback prospect, the former Colorado passer wasn't drafted until the fifth round, 144th overall.The 24-year-old began the 2025 offseason as Cleveland's QB4 but ultimately made eight regular-season appearances as a rookie, including seven starts. He completed 56.6% of his passes for 1,400 yards and seven touchdowns against 10 interceptions. Sanders also scored a rushing TD.Sanders split starting reps with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/84667" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/84667">Deshaun Watson</a> on Tuesday, taking snaps in 11-on-11 and seven-on-seven activities. They're expected to compete for the team's starting role.Sanders said the Browns have a "new energy" this year, praising first-year NFL head coach Todd Monken."Coach Monken is great. And all the other coaches on the staff is extremely great," Sanders said. "You gotta understand they embrace you just as a person and then they push you each and every day, in the meeting room and on the field, in the weight room. Like, it's a new vibe."In January, Cleveland hired Monken, who spent the past three seasons as the Baltimore Ravens' offensive coordinator, to replace Kevin Stefanski.

BEREA, OHIO - APRIL 21: Shedeur Sanders #2 of the Cleveland Browns answers questions from the media after a voluntary veteran minicamp at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus on April 21, 2026 in Berea, Ohio.

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Shedeur Sanders: 'I feel bulletproof' after turbulent rookie season

Wisconsin standout John Blackwell is transferring to Duke, he told Jeff Goodman of Field of 68.  ...

Wisconsin standout <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110768" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110768">John Blackwell</a> is transferring to Duke, he told <a href="https://x.com/GoodmanHoops/status/2046687685033521158?s=20">Jeff Goodman of Field of 68</a>.Blackwell entered the portal and intended to test the NBA draft this year after averaging a career-high 19.1 points and 5.1 rebounds per game this past season. He also shot 38.9% from the 3-point line.The 6-foot-4 junior earned a third-team All-Big Ten selection in 2025-26.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Blackwell visited Duke on Monday and credited Jon Scheyer for convincing him to choose the program."It just felt right. ... I just connected with Coach on a different level," Blackwell said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/48553673/duke-lands-john-blackwell-top-guard-transfer-portal">ESPN's Jeff Borzello</a>. "We built a connection in these past weeks of just talking to him and him selling why Duke is the right spot for me. Me taking this visit was just confirmation on why I should be at Duke."Blackwell was one of the best playmakers available in the portal. His commitment represents a huge splash for the Blue Devils, who are projected to lose their leading scorers - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/172510" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/172510">Cameron Boozer</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162167" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162167">Isaiah Evans</a> - to the 2026 NBA Draft.Duke reached the Elite Eight but fell short against UConn.

DENVER, COLORADO - MARCH 20: John Blackwell #25 of the Wisconsin Badgers dribbles the ball against the Montana Grizzlies during the second half at Ball Arena on March 20, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

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Duke lands Wisconsin transfer Blackwell

Kansas City Royals catcher and team captain Salvador Perez disagreed with manager Matt Quatraro's...

Kansas City Royals catcher and team captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2082" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2082">Salvador Perez</a> disagreed with manager Matt Quatraro's decision to leave him out of the lineup for the first time this season against the New York Yankees.Quatraro said he omitted the "struggling" Perez from Saturday's lineup because the player needed "a little mental breather," according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/salvador-perez-out-of-starting-lineup-saturday-vs-yankees">MLB.com's Anne Rogers</a>.Later in the day, Perez posted on social media to dispute Quatraro's reasoning.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I don’t need a mental breather— Salvador Perez (@SalvadorPerez15) <a href="https://twitter.com/SalvadorPerez15/status/2045658124921503981?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Quatraro discussed Perez's comment Sunday, acknowledging some miscommunication could've caused an issue."We're in a good spot," Quatraro said, according to <a href="https://x.com/jaylonthompson/status/2045891822778564617?s=20">Jaylon T. Thompson of the Kansas City Star</a>. "I think what stands out to me is the mental breather was, from my perspective, telling him the night before he wasn't playing so he can take some off his plate of preparing for our starting pitcher in the game plan."The skipper <a href="https://x.com/jaylonthompson/status/2045892344805786027">added</a>: "There's a tremendous amount that goes into that for a guy like him. And so, I think that's where that became a little bit misconstrued."Perez, who's back in the lineup Sunday for the series finale, also downplayed the disagreement with his manager."No frustration, zero frustration for us," Perez said, according to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-perez-quatraro-cecd3684e1cc6a6db940648352bf7377">Larry Fleisher of The Associated Press</a>. "The people, they don't want to know what's going on here. They can think and they can say whatever they want to say, you know, zero frustration. I don't have time for that."Perez is hitting .160/.210/.307 with three home runs and six RBIs in 20 games this season. The 35-year-old has left 45 runners on base, the fourth-worst mark in MLB entering Saturday.The nine-time All-Star is under contract through the 2027 season. He ranks second in franchise history with 306 career home runs.New York beat Kansas City 13-4 on Saturday. The 7-14 Royals have lost six in a row.

ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 27: Catcher Salvador Perez #13 of the Kansas City Royals during the MLB game between the Atlanta Braves and the Kansas City Royals on March 27, 2026 at Truist Park in Atlanta, GA.

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Royals' Perez claps back at Quatraro: 'I don't need a mental breather'

Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider continued to support Jeff Hoffman despite the reliever's...

Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider continued to support <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4786" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4786">Jeff Hoffman</a> despite the reliever's latest collapse.Hoffman gave up a go-ahead grand slam in the eighth inning of a 6-2 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks, putting more pressure on the Blue Jays and Schneider amid the team's losing streak."I know there may be people who don't want to hear this, but I've got a lot of trust and confidence in Jeff Hoffman," Schneider said postgame Saturday, according to <a href="https://x.com/KeeganMatheson/status/2045697889066996004">MLB.com's Keegan Matheson</a>. "If there's a situation to close out a game, I'll take Jeff Hoffman."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Schneider explained that he used Hoffman in the eighth inning Saturday to keep the right-hander on a more regular workload and avoid leaving too long a gap, per <a href="https://x.com/KeeganMatheson/status/2045698264864043213">Matheson</a>.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
CORBIN CARROLL GRAND SLAM!<a href="https://twitter.com/Dbacks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DBACKS</a> LEAD IN THE 8TH! <a href="https://t.co/ob9mVU4q2V">pic.twitter.com/ob9mVU4q2V</a>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/2045689610861158773?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Coming off an inconsistent first season with Toronto, Hoffman has produced a 7.71 ERA and 2.04 WHIP through 9 1/3 innings this campaign. He's converted just two of five save opportunities."We all believe in him. We all love him. We all believe he's going to figure it out and get big outs for us. That's never going to change," Schneider <a href="https://x.com/KeeganMatheson/status/2045702102509670466">added</a>.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/633" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/633">Max Scherzer</a> started on the mound for Toronto, allowing five hits and two earned runs in six innings. The future Hall of Famer is one strikeout shy of becoming only the 11th pitcher in MLB history with 3,500 career strikeouts. However, the Blue Jays' bats once again disappointed; the team has scored seven runs in the past four games combined.The Blue Jays are off to a 7-13 start after reaching the World Series last season. They've lost four in a row and six of their last seven games.

TORONTO, ON - MAY 13: Jeff Hoffman #23 of the Toronto Blue Jays walks to the mound in the ninth inning during a game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Rogers Centre on May 13, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Schneider: 'A lot of trust' in Hoffman despite struggles

The New York Giants are trading disgruntled defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence to the Cincinnati Be...

The New York Giants are trading disgruntled defensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/105300" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/105300">Dexter Lawrence</a> to the Cincinnati Bengals in exchange for the No. 10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, reports <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/2045659837015474404?s=20">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>.Lawrence, who recently <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3516266" href="https://thescore.com/news/3516266">requested</a> a trade from the Giants, will receive a lucrative contract extension with the Bengals, according to Rapoport. The 28-year-old will travel to Cincinnati for a physical Sunday, according to <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/2045661639425265983?s=20">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.Under his previous contract, the three-time Pro Bowler was signed for two more seasons. He inked a four-year, $90-million extension in 2023. However, his original deal didn't have guaranteed money remaining. The Giants and Lawrence unsuccessfully negotiated an adjusted contract in recent years.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>New York will take on $13.9 million in dead cap while freeing up $13 million in salary-cap space, according to <a href="https://x.com/spotrac/status/2045664018099224871?s=20">Spotrac</a>.Lawrence is one of the NFL's best interior linemen, having established himself as an elite run defender and disruptive pass-rusher. He racked up 21 sacks while claiming three Pro Bowl berths and two second-team All-Pro nods from 2022-24. However, he had only 0.5 sacks in 2025 while generating fewer than 10 quarterback hits for the first time since his rookie year.When aligned at nose tackle, the 2019 No. 17 pick has 76 more pressures generated (108) than the second-best lineman in the NFL in that category (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/89066" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/89066">Vita Vea</a>), according to <a href="https://x.com/SharpFootball/status/2041517645036433411">Warren Sharp of SharpFootballAnalysis.com</a>.With the trade, the Giants - now under head coach John Harbaugh's watch - have two top-10 picks in 2026. New York also owns the fifth overall selection.The Giants are in a great position to upgrade the supporting cast around second-year quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209911" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209911">Jaxson Dart</a>. The team will presumably use at least one of its first-round choices on a wide receiver, giving Dart another promising weapon opposite <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199759" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199759">Malik Nabers</a>.The Bengals have aggressively bolstered their defense this offseason, and Saturday's trade marks the club's biggest swing yet. Cincinnati also signed defensive lineman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/78271" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/78271">Jonathan Allen</a>, pass-rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174075" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174075">Boye Mafe</a>, and safety <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174026" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174026">Bryan Cook</a>, elevating the floor of its subpar defensive unit.Cincy's defense ranked 25th or worse in points allowed in each of the past three seasons.It's the first time in the common draft era (since 1966) in which the Bengals have traded a top-10 pick for a player, according to <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/2045680976420839554">ESPN</a>. The move also means Cincinnati will likely go without a first-round choice for just the second time in franchise history. The club's highest remaining 2026 selection is currently No. 41.Six teams have multiple first-round picks this year. In addition to the Giants, the New York Jets (No. 2 and 16), Cleveland Browns (No. 6 and 24), Kansas City Chiefs (No. 9 and 29), Miami Dolphins (No. 11 and 30), and Dallas Cowboys (No. 12 and 20) own extra Round 1 selections.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - OCTOBER 22: Dexter Lawrence II #97 of the New York Giants celebrates after a sack in the second quarter of the game against the Washington Commanders at MetLife Stadium on October 22, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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Report: Giants trade Lawrence to Bengals for No. 10 pick

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NFL draft superteams: Comparing the best of each rookie class over last decade

Former LSU head coach Brian Kelly believes Lane Kiffin will thrive in Baton Rouge - as long as he...

Former LSU head coach Brian Kelly believes Lane Kiffin will thrive in Baton Rouge - as long as he keeps being himself."Lane doesn't need advice," Kelly told <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/2026/04/15/brian-kelly-what-went-wrong-at-lsu-advice-for-lane-kiffin-whats-next/89608646007/">John Brice of USA Today</a>. "He's seen it from the NFL to (USC) to building a program. ... I don't think I'm telling him anything he doesn't know."The world we live in today - Michigan just won a basketball championship with five transfers. You can do it, but there are so many moving pieces. I don't think he needs any advice. ... People are going to judge you based upon what they think anyway. So, just be Lane Kiffin."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Kiffin, who became the most coveted coach in college football last season, left Ole Miss to join LSU in November, signing a seven-year, $91-million contract to replace Kelly.LSU fired Kelly midway through the season, his fourth with the team. He posted a 34-14 record with the Tigers, who didn't come close to contending for a national title under his watch.The 64-year-old reflected on his disappointing LSU tenure."I would say there's an easy, simple answer, and I didn't win enough games," Kelly said. "There's a longer answer to why that didn't happen; I'll probably have to write a book about that. There's always cause and effect, and the effect was I didn't win enough games, period."We were 34-14, 22-3 at home, when I was fired. We had two 10-win seasons, won an SEC (West Division) championship, had the No. 1 offense in college football, a Heisman Trophy winner. When you look at what is winning and what keeps you employed, other people make those decisions. But it starts with what is defined as winning, and unfortunately, it wasn't defined as enough winning leading into being fired."Kelly previously achieved great success at Grand Valley State, Cincinnati, and most notably, Notre Dame. He helped the Fighting Irish reach the national title game in 2013.The three-time Coach of the Year said he still wants to "make a difference" in college football."The motivator for me is what you miss," Kelly said. "The decisions that were made (at LSU), those were other people. I didn't have any control over that. What you lose is relationships with players, when I've been doing it my entire career. I miss that the most."All the young men that have been under my charge over 35 years. I feel like I have a lot still to give. Even with all this money in college football, they still need mentorship, still need development. ... My motivation is to want to get back to building relationships and successful programs."

BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA - OCTOBER 22: Head coach Brian Kelly of the LSU Tigers and head coach Lane Kiffin of the Mississippi Rebels talk before a game at Tiger Stadium on October 22, 2022 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

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Kelly sees Kiffin ready for LSU: 'Just be Lane Kiffin'

The Las Vegas Raiders have long been expected to take quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first...

The Las Vegas Raiders have long been expected to take quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/171730" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/171730">Fernando Mendoza</a> with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, but that hasn't stopped teams from inquiring about a potential trade for this year's No. 1 selection."We've gotten a few calls, and those teams know where they stand," Raiders general manager John Spytek said Tuesday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/48488757/raiders-spytek-says-teams-inquired-no-1-draft-pick">ESPN's Ryan McFadden</a>.Spytek also addressed the possibility of making trades during this year's draft, which takes place April 23-25.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"If there's a player that stands out that we feel it's not worth losing, it's not worth even picking up the phone, then we'll just make the pick," Spytek added. "But if it's a player that we're not as excited about, or there's a group of players that we would love to pick from, and we can get value for that, we're certainly open to listening to that."The Raiders' quarterback room currently features <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188217" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188217">Aidan O'Connell</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14947" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/14947">Kirk Cousins</a>, who signed with the team on April 2. First-year head coach Klint Kubiak recently praised Mendoza but said he'd prefer not to start a rookie quarterback immediately."Ultimately, this is a meritocracy, and the best guy will play," Spytek said about Las Vegas' QB plans. "It's just really hard to play really well at a young age. But we've seen plenty of quarterbacks do it recently."The Raiders haven't drafted a first-round QB since landing JaMarcus Russell first overall in 2007.

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - FEBRUARY 25: General Manager John Spytek of the Las Vegas Raiders speaks to the media during the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center on February 25, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Raiders GM: Teams inquired about No. 1 pick

North Carolina forward Caleb Wilson declared for the 2026 NBA Draft on Monday.  A consensus top-f...

North Carolina forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/172616" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/172616">Caleb Wilson</a> declared for the 2026 NBA Draft on Monday.A consensus top-five draft pick, Wilson averaged 19.8 points and 9.4 rebounds as a freshman this past season."This past year has been the most fun year of my life, although it has been filled with a lot of growth and adversity," Wilson said in his announcement video. "I will always cherish this university and the people that make this place what it is."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Thank you CHAPEL HILL🩵 <a href="https://t.co/Yd4u8ZVM19">pic.twitter.com/Yd4u8ZVM19</a>— Caleb Wilson (@CalebWilson2025) <a href="https://twitter.com/CalebWilson2025/status/2043820810574450999?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Wilson didn't play in the NCAA Tournament after fracturing his thumb in early March, but he's expected to be cleared for the NBA's predraft process. The 6-foot-10 standout also battled a hand injury in 2025-26.The 19-year-old led the Tar Heels in scoring, rebounding, steals, and blocks per game before being sidelined.Wilson lands with the Washington Wizards at No. 4 overall in the latest edition of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3480487" href="https://thescore.com/news/3480487">theScore's NBA mock draft</a>. Although the exact order has been debated, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/172510" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/172510">Cameron Boozer</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/173442" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/173442">AJ Dybantsa</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/172193" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/172193">Darryn Peterson</a> are projected to be this year's first three picks.

CHAPEL HILL, NC - DECEMBER 07: North Carolina Tar Heels forward Caleb Wilson (8) looks on during a college basketball game between the North Carolina Tar Heels and the Georgetown Hoyas on December 7, 2025, at Dean Smith Center in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

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Potential top-5 pick Wilson declares for NBA draft

The Atlanta Falcons have exercised running back Bijan Robinson's fifth-year option, the team anno...

The Atlanta Falcons have exercised running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188153" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188153">Bijan Robinson</a>'s fifth-year option, the team announced Friday.The move comes as no surprise, as Robinson is entering the fourth year of his rookie contract. He's expected to sign a lucrative contract extension with Atlanta.The two sides could ink a long-term deal before the 2026 season, sources told <a href="https://x.com/jjones9/status/2042701090353738162">CBS Sports' Jonathan Jones</a>. Robinson's fifth-year option is worth $11.3 million for the 2027 campaign.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 24-year-old put on a show in 2025, registering an NFL-high 2,298 scrimmage yards and 11 total touchdowns en route to claiming a first-team All-Pro berth.Robinson, who's rushed for at least 1,400 yards each of the past two seasons, has averaged 4.9 yards per carry since entering the league as the eighth overall pick in 2023.

TAMPA, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 11: Bijan Robinson #7 of the Atlanta Falcons runs a touchdown during the third quarter of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on December 11, 2025 in Tampa, Florida.

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Falcons pick up Bijan Robinson's 5th-year option

The Indianapolis Colts and slot cornerback Kenny Moore II mutually agreed to seek a trade, source...

The Indianapolis Colts and slot cornerback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/116412" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/116412">Kenny Moore II</a> mutually agreed to seek a trade, sources told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/2042598341003936247">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.Part of the reason they decided to part ways is Moore's fit in the team's defensive system, a source told <a href="https://x.com/HolderStephen/status/2042601427151810975">ESPN's Stephen Holder</a>. Indianapolis hired Lou Anarumo as its new defensive coordinator last year."It's all good. It's all love," Moore told Holder via text.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Moore has spent his entire career with the Colts since going undrafted in 2017.The 30-year-old, who's entering the last season of his contract, earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2021. He tied a career high with 13 pass breakups and four interceptions that year, similar to his 2020 stat line.In 2023, he became the first player in Colts history to score two pick-6s in a game, entering the record books against the Carolina Panthers.Moore had one interception in 2025, returning it for a touchdown. He also had six pass breakups, two forced fumbles, and 1.5 sacks in 14 games.He's racked up 21 career picks in 132 appearances with Indianapolis.

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - NOVEMBER 05: Kenny Moore II #23 of the Indianapolis Colts celebrates after intercepting a pass and scoring a touchdown during the second quarter of the game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on November 05, 2023 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

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Report: Colts, Moore agree to seek trade

Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid will undergo surgery for appendicitis Thursday, the team anno...

Philadelphia 76ers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a> will undergo surgery for appendicitis Thursday, the team announced.Embiid wasn't included on the team's initial injury report for Thursday's game against the Houston Rockets before being scratched from the lineup unexpectedly.The former MVP has appeared in only 38 games this season. Availability has been a concern throughout his career; Embiid, whom Philadelphia drafted in 2014, has missed at least 20 contests in all but four seasons.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>However, the seven-time All-Star has been one of the sport's most unstoppable players when healthy. He led the NBA in scoring in back-to-back seasons from 2021-23, averaging 31.8 points in 134 games over that span.The 32-year-old is recording 26.9 points and 7.7 rebounds per game this season.The 76ers (43-36) have guaranteed at least a play-in berth this year. They rank eighth in the Eastern Conference and are one game behind the Toronto Raptors, who occupy the sixth seed.

MEMPHIS, TN - DECEMBER 30: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers shoots a free throw during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on December 30, 2025 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Eight MLB teams officially unveiled their new City Connect uniforms Thursday.  The Atlanta Braves...

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8 MLB teams reveal new City Connect uniforms

The Atlanta Falcons' right tackle position stole headlines Wednesday.  First, Kaleb McGary retire...

The Atlanta Falcons' right tackle position stole headlines Wednesday.First, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/88754" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/88754">Kaleb McGary</a> retired from football, his agent, Collin Roberts, <a href="https://x.com/collinbroberts/status/2041955831823176000">announced</a>.McGary made 92 regular-season starts for the Falcons, who drafted him as a first-round pick in 2019. However, the 31-year-old missed the entire 2025 season due to a leg injury.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Falcons then agreed to sign <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/108380" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/108380">Jawaan Taylor</a> to a one-year deal, his agents told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/2041972481112633549?s=20">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>. Taylor's contract has a base value of $5 million and includes $1 million in incentives.Taylor spent the past three seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs. The 28-year-old made 45 regular-season starts with Kansas City and was part of a Super Bowl-winning campaign. However, his Chiefs tenure was marked by a whopping 56 penalties.McGary allowed 10 sacks over his final two seasons, according to PFF. He also stood out as a run-blocker and was under contract for two more years. He signed a two-year, $30-million extension in August, shortly before sustaining the leg injury."I truly enjoyed my time playing alongside Kaleb," said Falcons president of football and former quarterback Matt Ryan, according to <a href="https://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/falcons-ot-kaleb-mcgary-retires-nfl">team reporter Will McFadden</a>. "He was an outstanding teammate and had a tremendous career as a Falcon. We are grateful for the impact he made on this organization, and we wish him nothing but the best in retirement."Atlanta's roster also features right tackles <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/65923" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/65923">Storm Norton</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/200004" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/200004">Michael Jerrell</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/80088" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/80088">Elijah Wilkinson</a>, who replaced McGary in 2025, joined the Arizona Cardinals this offseason.

DENVER, CO - NOVEMBER 16: Jawaan Taylor #74 of the Kansas City Chiefs walks off the field after a 22-19 loss to the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High on November 16, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

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Falcons sign Taylor as McGary retires

Projected first overall pick Fernando Mendoza won't attend the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh on Ap...

Projected first overall pick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/171730" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/171730">Fernando Mendoza</a> won't attend the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh on April 23, sources told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/2041558894913142823?s=20">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.Mendoza will instead be in Miami with his family during the draft, according to Schefter. The 22-year-old is widely expected to land with the Las Vegas Raiders, who own the No. 1 selection.The former Indiana star headlines this year's quarterback class after leading the Hoosiers to a national title last season. He completed 72% of his passes for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns against six interceptions en route to winning the Heisman Trophy.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Mendoza also put on a show at Indiana's pro day last Wednesday.Projected top picks normally attend the NFL draft, but Mendoza won't be the first one to watch it from home. In recent years, quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161653" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161653">Trevor Lawrence</a> (2021) and pass-rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/173986" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/173986">Travon Walker</a> (2022) were absent for the event. The last three No. 1 picks - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188155" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188155">Bryce Young</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199760" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199760">Caleb Williams</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209905" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209905">Cam Ward</a> - attended the draft.

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - FEBRUARY 28: Fernando Mendoza of the Indiana Hoosiers looks on during the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Report: Projected No. 1 pick Mendoza won't attend NFL draft

Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider admits the team has fallen short of expectations during ...

Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider admits the team has fallen short of expectations during a rough start to the season, but he doesn't think it's time to panic."I feel like at times I'm over-positive in times like this, where it's no secret it's not working right now," Schneider said after Monday's 14-2 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/bluejays/video/john-schneider-talks-blue-jays-outing">MLB.com</a>. "Better now than in July or August. ... We're 10 games into the season."The lopsided defeat in a rematch of last season's thrilling World Series dropped the Blue Jays to 4-6. They've lost five in a row, and their minus-20 run differential is second worst in the American League.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"There's been bases loaded in almost every game with two outs, I feel like," Schneider said. "You need someone to get the big hit. You can't rely on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8267">Vlad (Guerrero Jr.)</a> or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2931" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2931">George (Springer)</a>, or whoever it is. You gotta get that hit."Only three teams are leaving more <a href="https://www.teamrankings.com/mlb/stat/left-on-base-per-game">runners on base</a> per game than Toronto. The Blue Jays also rank in MLB's bottom 10 for errors per game and ERA."I'm not going to say that we're playing bad defense," Schneider said. "This is going to happen over the course of the year. Bad offense, bad defense, bad pitching, giving up homers - it's going to happen. It just seems like, right now, the baseball world is trying to throw it all at us at once. If we back down from that, we're in trouble."If it was something that was a glaring weakness of ours, I'd be a little bit worried. But it's something that's been a glaring strength of ours for a lot of years, and I'm not going to let how today, or the last couple of games, define how we do it."Injuries have been a big factor for the Blue Jays so far, and a flu is also going around the clubhouse. Pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8204" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8204">Cody Ponce</a> is expected to miss six months after suffering an ACL sprain in his Toronto debut, while starters <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9542" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9542">Shane Bieber</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4769" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4769">José Berríos</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/20109" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/20109">Trey Yesavage</a> are still working their way back from injuries. Two-time All-Star catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11875" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11875">Alejandro Kirk</a> underwent thumb surgery and won't be available for around six weeks. Right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/633" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/633">Max Scherzer</a> left Monday's game after two innings because of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3516663" href="https://thescore.com/news/3516663">forearm tendinitis</a>. Outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14202" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14202">Addison Barger</a> didn't face the Dodgers due to an ankle issue and was placed on the 10-day injured list Tuesday.

TORONTO, ON - March 26 Jays Manager John Schneider speaks to the media.The Toronto Blue Jays held their media day at the Rogers Centre in MLB baseball action ahead of their home opener on Friday.March 26 2026 Richard Lautens/Toronto Star (Richard Lautens/Toronto Star via Getty Images)

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Schneider: Early-season struggles won't 'define' Blue Jays

The Chicago Bulls parted ways with executive vice president of basketball operations Arturas Karn...

The Chicago Bulls parted ways with executive vice president of basketball operations Arturas Karnisovas and general manager Marc Eversley, the team announced Monday."These decisions are never easy, especially when they involve people we respect both personally and professionally," Bulls CEO Michael Reinsdorf said in a statement. "We are grateful for their dedication and the work they've put in over the past six years. At the same time, we have not had the success our fans deserve, and it's my responsibility to go in a new direction. This move is about positioning our team for sustained success moving forward."Karnisovas and Eversley both joined the Bulls in 2020. Chicago made only one postseason appearance under their watch.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Bulls (29-49) were recently eliminated from this year's playoff race, and they've lost seven games in a row.Karnisovas and Eversley were very active in their final season with the Bulls, dealing away several players before the trade deadline, including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69889" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69889">Coby White</a>.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 02: Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Arturas Karnisovas of the Chicago Bulls answers questions from reporters during Media Day at Advocate Center on October 02, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Bulls dismiss exec Karnisovas, GM Eversley

North Carolina intends to hire longtime NBA coach Michael Malone as head coach of its men's baske...

North Carolina intends to hire longtime NBA coach Michael Malone as head coach of its men's basketball team, sources told <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/2041212222462910658">ESPN's Pete Thamel</a>.Malone will replace Hubert Davis, who didn’t return after the Tar Heels' latest NCAA Tournament disappointment.Malone spent 10 seasons as head coach of the Denver Nuggets before they fired him in April 2025. He's the winningest coach in franchise history with a 471-327 regular-season record from 2015-25. The 54-year-old led the Nuggets to an NBA title in 2023.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The New York native previously coached the Sacramento Kings, who dismissed him partway through his second season with the team in 2014.Malone has limited experience in college basketball. He served as an assistant at Oakland, Providence, and Manhattan from 1994-2001 before starting to work in the NBA. His daughter, Bridget, is a volleyball player at UNC.Malone is the first North Carolina coach without any previous direct ties to the school since Frank McGuire, who preceded the legendary Dean Smith.The Tar Heels were eliminated in the first round of March Madness in each of the past two seasons.Several candidates reportedly spurned North Carolina in recent days. Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan - a two-time national champion at Florida - was reportedly open to potentially taking the job, but he wasn't willing to discuss his future before the NBA regular season ends April 12.However, North Carolina athletic director Steve Newmark "panicked" after Michigan's Dusty May and Arizona's Tommy Lloyd turned down the position, a source told <a href="https://x.com/GoodmanHoops/status/2041227917229773114?s=20">Field of 68's Jeff Goodman</a>. Vanderbilt boss Mark Byington was also a top candidate for the job, a source told <a href="https://x.com/GoodmanHoops/status/2041228508291100754">Goodman</a>.

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 04: Head coach Michael Malone of the Denver Nuggets looks on against the Golden State Warriors in the second quarter at Chase Center on April 04, 2025 in San Francisco, California.

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Report: UNC hiring Michael Malone as head coach

Three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence requested a trade from the New York Giants, ...

Three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/105300" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/105300">Dexter Lawrence</a> requested a trade from the New York Giants, sources told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/2041193382022619174">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.Lawrence reportedly plans to skip the Giants offseason workout program that kicks off Tuesday.The two sides have tried to negotiate a new deal in the past two offseasons but haven't made any progress, sources told Schefter.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Lawrence, 28, is under contract for two more seasons. His current deal includes a base salary of $18.5 million but has no guaranteed money remaining, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/player/dexter-lawrence/7808">Over The Cap</a>. He originally signed a four-year, $90-million extension with New York in 2023.Teams inquired about Lawrence before last season's trade deadline, notes <a href="https://x.com/MikeGarafolo/status/2041195732036722733">NFL Network's Mike Garafolo</a>.Lawrence has established himself as one of the NFL's best interior defensive linemen since entering the league as the No. 17 overall pick in 2019. An elite run defender and disruptive pass-rusher, he collected 21 sacks and 65 quarterback hits while claiming three Pro Bowl berths and two second-team All-Pro nods from 2022-24.Lawrence is coming off a down season; he finished 2025 with 0.5 sacks after recording a career-high nine in 2024.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 21: Dexter Lawrence #97 of the New York Giants reacts against the Kansas City Chiefs during the second quarter at MetLife Stadium on September 21, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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Report: Lawrence requests trade from Giants

The Chicago Sky agreed to trade forward Angel Reese to the Atlanta Dream, the team announced Mond...

The Chicago Sky agreed to trade forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121629" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121629">Angel Reese</a> to the Atlanta Dream, the team announced Monday.Atlanta, which sent two first-round selections (2027 and '28) to Chicago, also received the right to swap 2028 second-round picks. Reese, who's under contract through the upcoming season, has a team option for '27 on her rookie deal.Reese, 23, averaged a career-high 14.7 points in 2025, earning her second All-Star nod in as many seasons. The former LSU star has also averaged 12.9 rebounds since entering the WNBA as the No. 7 overall pick in 2024.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Sky thanked her on social media after announcing the trade.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
thank you for everything you gave to Chicago🤍 <a href="https://t.co/IjyVrz4eiH">pic.twitter.com/IjyVrz4eiH</a>— Chicago Sky (@chicagosky) <a href="https://twitter.com/chicagosky/status/2041177502199009311?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Reese's trade to Atlanta comes roughly seven months after she called out the Sky and suggested that she would be open to leaving the team if it didn't improve. She later apologized for the comments.Although Chicago suspended Reese for half-a-game as a result, general manager Jeff Pagliocca said at the time that he expected the double-double machine to remain with the team."This trade is designed to achieve roster balance and represents a great opportunity for all parties," Pagliocca said in a statement Monday. "Angel has achieved many record-breaking milestones in her first two years in the WNBA. ... We are thankful for her many important contributions to this league and this game, and we know she will continue to have a big impact on the court and beyond."The Sky finished last season with a 10-34 record, including a 1-13 mark in games played without Reese. They now own five first-round picks in the next three seasons, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/48412523/sources-wnba-sky-trades-angel-reese-dream">ESPN</a>.

PHOENIX, AZ - AUGUST 28: Angel Reese #5 of the Chicago Sky looks on during the game against the Phoenix Mercury on August 28, 2025 at PHX Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Sky trade Reese to Dream for pair of 1st-round picks

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Caio Miari

News Editor

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