Las Vegas Raiders coaches and players are already impressed with quarterback Geno Smith as he beg...

Las Vegas Raiders coaches and players are already impressed with quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/13368" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/13368">Geno Smith</a> as he begins his first offseason program with the team."Geno is literally like a second coach," Raiders offensive coordinator Chip Kelly said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45380681/las-vegas-raiders-oc-kelly-wr-meyers-heap-praise-qb-smith">ESPN's Ryan McFadden</a>.He added, "His football acumen is really off the charts, and it's impressive to be around him."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Meanwhile, wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/98130" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/98130">Jakobi Meyers</a> compared Smith to former teammate Tom Brady in terms of his consistency and preparedness."I truly mean that," Meyers said. "He knows what he is doing, (and) he shows up the same every day. I haven't seen him have a bad day."Las Vegas acquired Smith from the Seattle Seahawks in March for a third-round pick in this year's draft. The franchise then signed him to a two-year, $75-million extension.The Raiders transformed dramatically this offseason, both on and off the field. That included new head coach Pete Carroll hiring Kelly as OC fresh off winning a national championship with Ohio State.Smith called being coached by Kelly a "dream come true," while Las Vegas' play-caller expressed admiration for how his 34-year-old quarterback has handled his NFL journey."There's not a lot of guys that have shown that resiliency," Kelly said. "He can be so relatable to everybody, because he's kind of lived that life. He's been a high draft pick, (but) he's also been a guy that has been told that a team doesn't want him."The fact that he's done it and come out to be the way he is now is a testament to him. He's special."Smith was selected to the Pro Bowl twice with Seattle, his fourth NFL team, and was named the 2022 Comeback Player of the Year.He's set to be the Raiders' fourth different Week 1 starting QB over the last four years.

HENDERSON, NEVADA - MAY 21: Geno Smith #7 of the Las Vegas Raiders looks to throw during an OTA offseason workout at the Las Vegas Raiders Headquarters/Intermountain Healthcare Performance Center on May 21, 2025 in Henderson, Nevada.

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Raiders impressed by Geno: 'His football acumen is really off the charts'

Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews acknowledged it was a difficult offseason for him after h...

Baltimore Ravens tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/82707" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/82707">Mark Andrews</a> acknowledged it was a difficult offseason for him after his crucial mistake in last season's playoffs, but he says he's used it as motivation.Andrews dropped the potential game-tying two-point conversion late in January's divisional-round defeat to the Buffalo Bills. He also fumbled on the Ravens' previous drive."It's tough," Andrews said Wednesday when speaking to reporters for the first time since the loss. "This is my life. I put a lot of work into this. Everything I do, everything I think about, is focused on that. So, it wasn't the way that I had planned it, but that's all part of the story. I've been using it, and I've had an incredible offseason.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I'm excited to show what I can continue to do, and continue to prove myself and step up in big moments. That's the thing about sports: It doesn't always fall your way, doesn't always go your way, but it's how you bounce back."Andrews was the topic of trade rumors throughout the offseason as he's entering the final year of his contract, while fellow Ravens tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174166" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174166">Isaiah Likely</a> has emerged. Andrews turns 30 in September.The three-time Pro Bowler said he's grateful to still be in Baltimore."I'm extremely excited to be here," he said. "This is an incredible organization. I'm very thankful to be here for my eighth year."When asked if he'd like to have a new deal signed before the 2025 campaign begins, Andrews left it in general manager Eric DeCosta's court."It's not for me to deal with that," he said. "I thought Eric had a great way of saying it. He's in the business of keeping great players, and, for me, I think I'm a great player. I think I've been able to do it at the highest level, the best of the best, for a long time, and I'm not slowing down."Andrews scored a personal-best 11 touchdowns in 2024. However, he's yet to reach the end zone across eight career playoff games as the Ravens have continually come up short in their quest for the Super Bowl.

HOUSTON, TX - DECEMBER 25: Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews (89) scores a touchdown in the third quarter during the NFL game between the Baltimore Ravens and Houston Texans on December 25, 2024 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas.

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Ravens' Andrews moving past playoff drop, trade rumors: 'Thankful to be here'

Pittsburgh Steelers legend Terry Bradshaw isn't a fan of how his former team has handled its quar...

Pittsburgh Steelers legend Terry Bradshaw isn't a fan of how his former team has handled its quarterback situation in recent years, including its pursuit of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/747" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/747">Aaron Rodgers</a> this offseason."That's a joke. That, to me, is a joke," Bradshaw said Tuesday on "<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dan-hampton-nfl-hall-of-famer/id1604422834?i=1000710120813">103.7 The Buzz</a>." "What are you gonna do? Bring him in for one year? Are you kidding me? That guy needs to stay in California. Go somewhere and chew on bark and whisper to the gods out there."Pittsburgh has been linked to Rodgers throughout the offseason but has yet to sign the veteran passer. Steelers owner Art Rooney II said recently the team will wait "a little while longer" for the four-time NFL MVP to make a decision on his football future.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Steelers are <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3291875" href="https://thescore.com/news/3291875">reportedly</a> considering acquiring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14947" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/14947">Kirk Cousins</a> if Rodgers doesn't join the franchise. As it stands, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/83531" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/83531">Mason Rudolph</a> would likely be in line to start for the team.Bradshaw also looked back at how Pittsburgh managed the development of former first-round pick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/173994" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/173994">Kenny Pickett</a>, whom he says he was a fan of.The Steelers drafted Pickett with the 20th overall selection in 2022. They traded him to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024 after he failed to pan out as the team's starter across his first two NFL seasons. Pickett was again traded to the Cleveland Browns in March."I liked Kenny Pickett," Bradshaw said. "I liked him at Pitt. I know him, I know what he's like. And when they got him to Pittsburgh ... they didn't protect him, they didn't get him an offensive line."He added, "They wanted to run the football, but they didn't have an offensive line that could protect, and they didn't have weapons. He had no wide receivers to speak of."Then you throw a kid in there for two years, and you've got an offense that doesn't fit and doesn't work, and they can't run because their offensive line's not even good enough for a run-blocking team. And therefore, they say, 'Pickett was a failure.' He wasn't a failure, the Steelers were a failure."Bradshaw won four Super Bowls as Pittsburgh's starting quarterback in the 1970s and is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

PHILADELPHIA, PA - JANUARY 29: Fox NFL Sunday analyst Terry Bradshaw looks on during the Championship game between the San Fransisco 49ers and the Philadelphia Eagles on January 29, 2023.

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Bradshaw rips Steelers for Rodgers pursuit: 'That's a joke'

The College Football Playoff is moving to a straight seeding model for the 2025 season.  Teams wi...

The College Football Playoff is moving to a straight seeding model for the 2025 season.Teams will be seeded based on the selection committee's ranking, awarding first-round byes to the top four programs regardless of whether they won their conference.The five highest-ranked conference champions will still receive automatic bids into the playoff but will only be seeded according to their ranking.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The CFP's management committee, comprised of the 10 FBS commissioners and Notre Dame athletic director Pete Bevacqua, unanimously agreed to the change Thursday."After evaluating the first year of the 12-team playoff, the CFP management committee felt it was in the best interest of the game to make this adjustment," executive director Rich Clark said in a statement."This change will continue to allow guaranteed access to the playoff by rewarding teams for winning their conference championship, but it will also allow us to construct a postseason bracket that recognizes the best performance on the field during the entire regular season."In last season's playoff, the first under the 12-team format, the top four seeds and accompanying byes were automatically given to the four highest-ranked conference champions.As a result, ninth-ranked Boise State (Mountain West champion) earned the 3-seed, while No. 11 Arizona State (Big 12 winner) was the 4-seed in the tournament. Both teams lost their second-round matchups, though Arizona State took Texas to overtime in the Peach Bowl.If the new format had been in place last season, nonconference winners Texas and Penn State would have received the first-round byes alongside Oregon and Georgia. Notre Dame, which is independent of the conferences, is now eligible to receive a bye in the playoff.This will also be the final season of the 12-team playoff format, with the CFP expanding to either 14 or 16 teams starting in 2026, sources told <a href="https://x.com/brett_mcmurphy/status/1925614012387270758?s=46">Action Network's Brett McMurphy</a>.No future model has been finalized, but the SEC and Big Ten are pushing for a 16-team format in which they each receive four automatic bids, <a href="https://sports.yahoo.com/college-football/breaking-news/article/college-football-playoff-moving-to-straight-seeding-for-2025-26-postseason-but-what-does-future-hold-180415115.html">Yahoo Sports' Ross Dellenger</a> reports.

INGLEWOOD, CA - JANUARY 09: Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart holds up the trophy following the Georgia Bulldogs game versus the TCU Horned Frogs in the College Football Playoff National Championship game on January 9, 2023, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA.

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College Football Playoff moving to straight seeding model

Detroit Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson is "fully cleared" to resume football activities follo...

Detroit Lions edge rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174006" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174006">Aidan Hutchinson</a> is "fully cleared" to resume football activities following last year's season-ending leg injury, he told reporters Thursday."It feels like I'm back to being myself again," Hutchinson said as the Lions began OTAs. "I'm really looking forward to the season. I think this is the most excited I've been for OTAs in my life. This is the biggest hiatus I've had without playing ball."Hutchinson underwent surgery in October to repair the fractured tibia and fibula he suffered during a blowout win over the Dallas Cowboys. The star pass-rusher was carted off with his leg in an air cast after sacking <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/50470" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/50470">Dak Prescott</a> in Hutchinson's final play of the 2024 season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He was on pace for a career-best campaign with 7.5 sacks, seven tackles for loss, and 17 quarterback hits across his first five games. Hutchinson was selected to his first Pro Bowl the year prior after tallying 11.5 sacks.Detroit exercised Hutchinson's fifth-year option earlier this offseason, keeping him under contract through the 2026 season.The former second overall pick has 28.5 sacks and 30 tackles for loss in 39 career appearances for the Lions.

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - SEPTEMBER 30: Aidan Hutchinson #97 of the Detroit Lions reacts as he takes the field prior to an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks at Ford Field on September 30, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Lions' Hutchinson says he's 'fully cleared' after season-ending injury

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown seems impressed with the Dallas Cowboys' recent trad...

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/111194" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/111194">A.J. Brown</a> seems impressed with the Dallas Cowboys' recent trade to acquire <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174055" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174055">George Pickens</a>, pairing him with All-Pro wideout <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/120335" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/120335">CeeDee Lamb</a>."We're going to have to worry about them, for sure," Brown said recently in a video posted to his YouTube channel, according to <a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/eagles-wr-a-j-brown-on-cowboys-trade-for-george-pickens-we-re-going-to-have-to-worry-about-them">NFL.com's Kevin Patra</a>.He added: "I do like the trade. I like the competition. I like George Pickens, I like CeeDee Lamb, and they collab. It's going to be exciting to watch. Because all that does is bring the best out of us. So, if we know how they coming, we are going to have to step it up."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Washington Commanders, another division rival, traded for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87611" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87611">Deebo Samuel</a> this offseason to play alongside All-Pro wideout <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87889" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87889">Terry McLaurin</a>. Meanwhile, Brown and Eagles teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161668" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161668">DeVonta Smith</a> have formed perhaps the league's top receiver duo over the past three seasons.Brown, a three-time All-Pro, said he never takes NFC East matchups lightly despite his team's success last year. The Eagles went 5-1 in divisional games during the 2024 regular season, including two blowout wins over the Cowboys by a combined score of 75-13.Philadelphia also crushed Washington in the NFC title game en route to the franchise's second Super Bowl championship."Regardless of the scoreboard or what the score says, those are one of the hardest games," Brown said. "Every single time. Cowboys, Washington, those are dogfights. It may look easy, but it ain't easy."

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - DECEMBER 29: A.J. Brown #11 of the Philadelphia Eagles looks on against the Dallas Cowboys at Lincoln Financial Field on December 29, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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A.J. Brown: Eagles 'have to worry about' Cowboys after Pickens trade

The NFL will allow players to compete in flag football at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics after own...

The NFL will allow players to compete in flag football at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics after owners unanimously approved the proposal, the league announced Tuesday."It's an incredible honor for any athlete to represent their country in the Olympics, which is the pinnacle of global sport," NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said in a <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1924922225519386661">statement</a> obtained by NFL Network's Ian Rapoport."I know firsthand that the inclusion of flag football in the Olympics has sparked a tremendous amount of excitement among NFL players interested in the chance to compete for their country on the world stage. We are thrilled that they will now have that chance."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The motion passed with a 32-0 vote, per <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1924921878273007675">Rapoport</a>. The proposal needed at least 24 of the 32 owners in favor to pass at Tuesday's league meetings.The league will move on to negotiating with the NFL Players Association, Olympic officials, and national sports governing bodies on the specifics of player involvement. Participation will require players to qualify or try out for their countries' national flag football teams ahead of the Games.Star players like Kansas City Chiefs quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/89514" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/89514">Patrick Mahomes</a> and Miami Dolphins wideout <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/83498" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/83498">Tyreek Hill</a> have been outspoken about their desire to represent the United States in flag football.It'll be the first time ever that the sport is an Olympic event.Under the current framework, the proposal limits participation to one player per NFL team for each country, with an exception for designated international players.The Olympic flag football competition will consist of six men's and women's teams composed of 10 players per team, with the games themselves featuring a five-on-five format. The proposed resolution also covers injury protections, including the purchase of leaguewide insurance policies and a salary-cap credit for any player who's injured during the event. The NFL will require Olympic flag football teams to meet minimum standards for medical staffs and field surfaces.The L.A. Olympics are scheduled to take place July 14-30, 2028. That's roughly the time of year NFL teams begin training camp ahead of the upcoming season.The proposal states that the flag football schedule must not "unreasonably conflict with an NFL player's league and club commitments."

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 02: Ja'Marr Chase #1 of the Cincinnati Bengals and AFC runs up field during the 2025 NFL Pro Bowl Games at Camping World Stadium on February 02, 2025 in Orlando, Florida.

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NFL to allow players to compete in Olympic flag football

Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry says he's grateful after agreeing to an extension fol...

Baltimore Ravens running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/72385" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/72385">Derrick Henry</a> says he's grateful after agreeing to an extension following his first season with the team."I'm very appreciative of how much they value me to give me an extension," Henry <a href="https://x.com/Ravens/status/1924498278269259854">told</a> reporters Monday. "I just want to show them how much it means to me, how much this organization means to me, by the way I work and what I do on the field."Henry and the Ravens <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3285839" href="https://thescore.com/news/3285839">agreed</a> to a two-year, $30-million extension earlier in May. The contract includes $25 million fully guaranteed and is the largest deal ever for a running back over 30. Henry is now under contract through the 2027 season, though there's no guaranteed money after 2026.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The former Tennessee Titans star was one of last season's top additions after joining Baltimore in free agency. Henry ran for 1,921 yards and led the NFL with 16 touchdowns in his first campaign as a Raven. His performance earned him the fifth Pro Bowl selection and third All-Pro team nod of his career."I fell in love with everything - with the brotherhood, by the way they work, how they approach everything," Henry <a href="https://x.com/Ravens/status/1924498579747442784">said</a>.He added, "It's always fun when you've got guys around you that are the top of their position and can change the game at any point."The Ravens won the AFC North for the second year in a row in 2024 and beat the Pittsburgh Steelers to open the playoffs. Baltimore then fell to the Buffalo Bills in the divisional round after failing to score a two-point conversion in the game's final minutes.Henry said he only took a week off after the loss to Buffalo before returning to his workout regimen, according to <a href="https://x.com/jamisonhensley/status/1924507752128196969">ESPN's Jamison Hensley</a>.The Ravens open their <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3285402" href="https://thescore.com/news/3285402">2025 season</a> with a return to Buffalo for a rematch against the Bills on Sunday Night Football.

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - SEPTEMBER 22: Derrick Henry #22 of the Baltimore Ravens looks on during the third quarter at AT&T Stadium on September 22, 2024 in Arlington, Texas.

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Henry grateful for extension, eager to show Ravens 'how much it means'

The Dallas Cowboys explored trading for Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman before acqu...

The Dallas Cowboys explored trading for Baltimore Ravens wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161658" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161658">Rashod Bateman</a> before acquiring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174055" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174055">George Pickens</a>, <a href="https://x.com/Schultz_Report/status/1920937064628908419">Jordan Schultz of Fox Sports</a> reports.However, trade talks with the Ravens didn't go far, Schultz added.The Cowboys <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3282027" href="https://thescore.com/news/3282027">traded</a> a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round selection to the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for Pickens and a 2027 sixth-rounder earlier this week.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Dallas spent months searching for another receiver to pair with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/120335" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/120335">CeeDee Lamb</a> before finalizing the Pickens deal after the draft, Schultz reported.Bateman was a major weapon for the Ravens in 2024, finishing second on the team in receiving yards (756) and receiving touchdowns (nine) while tallying the third-most receptions (45). He scored two more touchdowns in the playoffs.The 25-year-old wideout's previous career high for touchdowns in a season was two.Bateman is slated to help form a potent receiver trio alongside <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188142" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188142">Zay Flowers</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/46606" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/46606">DeAndre Hopkins</a> for quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97162" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97162">Lamar Jackson</a> and the Ravens next season.He has 138 receptions, 1,923 yards, and 13 touchdowns across four campaigns with Baltimore, though he missed most of the 2022 season because of injury.Bateman has two years left on his current deal, including a $5.1-million cap hit for 2025. The Ravens selected him with the 27th pick in the 2021 draft.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - JANUARY 11: Rashod Bateman #7 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates a touchdown during the first quarter against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the AFC Wild Card Playoff at M&T Bank Stadium on January 11, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Report: Cowboys pursued Ravens' Bateman before acquiring Pickens

Robert Saleh is back with the San Francisco 49ers, and he says he didn't consider taking any othe...

Robert Saleh is back with the San Francisco 49ers, and he says he didn't consider taking any other team's defensive coordinator job."I have a tremendous amount of respect for this organization. ... If you think about those first two years as the coordinator in '17 and '18, it wasn't easy," Saleh <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O5pZcCPo34I&amp;ab_channel=SanFrancisco49ers">told reporters</a> Thursday. "And it could have been very easy for them to move on for me."I'm indebted to this organization, to those men, for the rest of my life. They stuck with me, and we made it happen. We did what we needed to do, and the rest is history. I'm excited about the opportunity to get a chance to do it again with them."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Saleh spent three-plus seasons as the head coach of the New York Jets before the franchise fired him in October. He finished with a 20-36 record and zero playoff appearances. The 46-year-old said he's bringing a new perspective to his second stint in San Francisco."Obviously, I've gone through the head coaching stuff, and you learn a lot going through that," Saleh said. "But I'm happy to be back in this chair, where you get to coach a little bit more football and not deal with all the administrative stuff that comes with being a head coach."He first joined the 49ers when Kyle Shanahan was hired as head coach in 2017, serving as DC until taking the Jets' top job in 2020. The Saleh-coached 49ers defense peaked in 2019 when San Francisco ranked second in yards allowed and reached Super Bowl LIV.Saleh said he's bringing "a lot of really cool concepts" to this iteration of his defense, marrying ideas from his Jets tenure with new strategies to battle emerging offensive trends."You're always trying to stay two years ahead of offense," Saleh said.

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 02: San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh on the field against the Kansas City Chiefs prior to Super Bowl LIV at Hard Rock Stadium on February 2, 2020 in Miami Gardens, Florida.

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Saleh didn't consider other DC jobs: 'I'm indebted to' 49ers

George Pickens is looking to move forward after being traded from the Pittsburgh Steelers to the ...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174055" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174055">George Pickens</a> is looking to move forward after being traded from the Pittsburgh Steelers to the Dallas Cowboys earlier this week."I'm where I'm at right now. I can't look into the past," Pickens said during his introductory press conference Thursday, according to <a href="https://x.com/NickHarrisFWST/status/1920565286832369998">Nick Harris of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram</a>.Dallas <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3282027" href="https://thescore.com/news/3282027">acquired</a> Pickens and a 2027 sixth-round pick from the Steelers on Wednesday in exchange for a 2026 third-round selection and a 2027 fifth-rounder.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 24-year-old wideout said "business" is what led to his exit from Pittsburgh, according to <a href="https://x.com/toddarcher/status/1920579722502689025">ESPN's Todd Archer</a>.However, Pickens declined to elaborate on the split or address speculation that maturity concerns played a role."I can't change anyone's opinion," Pickens said, per <a href="https://x.com/NickHarrisFWST/status/1920567992032600477">Harris</a>. "Personally, I just continue to grow. ... I'm just trying to build a winning culture, which they already have at the Cowboys. I'm just glad to be joining."Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said last season that Pickens needed to "grow up in a hurry" after he received multiple unsportsmanlike conduct penalties. Rival defenders have also admitted that provoking Pickens is part of their strategy due to his reputation for having a short temper.Despite entering the final year of his rookie deal, Pickens said he's focused on making the most of this upcoming season rather than contract negotiations."I'm kind of where my feet are right now, to be honest," Pickens <a href="https://x.com/NickHarrisFWST/status/1920567356230648203">said</a>. "I'm not thinking about contract talk. I'm glad to be here with the Cowboys."Pickens joins All-Pro receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/120335" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/120335">CeeDee Lamb</a> in Dallas, a pairing he says will "be good for me and him.""Schematically, you can't double everybody," Pickens <a href="https://x.com/NickHarrisFWST/status/1920564473804230749">said</a>.He also praised quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/50470" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/50470">Dak Prescott</a>, who he said was among the first Cowboys to contact him following the trade."Just watching his game over the years, he's a very prolific quarterback. Smart quarterback at that," Pickens said, per <a href="https://x.com/toddarcher/status/1920566449304731866">Archer</a>.Pickens has 174 receptions, 2,841 yards, and 12 touchdowns across three NFL seasons, all with Pittsburgh. He led the league in yards per catch (18.1) in 2023.

LAS VEGAS, NV - OCTOBER 13: Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (14) walks off the field after a NFL game between the Pittsburgh Steelers a d the Las Vegas Raiders on October 13, 2024, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, NV.

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Pickens focused on helping Cowboys, not Steelers exit

New York Giants edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux is "super excited" to play alongside No. 3 pick Abd...

New York Giants edge rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174003" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174003">Kayvon Thibodeaux</a> is "super excited" to play alongside No. 3 pick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209913" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209913">Abdul Carter</a>."I think (Carter's) a great player. We can use him in a lot of different ways," Thibodeaux said Tuesday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45031211/giants-thibodeaux-excited-not-worried-top-pick-carter">ESPN's Jordan Raanan</a>. "I'm excited to see him come in and grind and (see) what we're going to get."They'll also be teaming up with two-time Pro Bowler <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/110192" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/110192">Brian Burns</a>, who's coming off an 8.5-sack campaign in his first season with the Giants. Thibodeaux described the outside linebacker trio as "tweeners" due to their versatility.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"If you look at my skill set, Brian's skill set ... Brian can rush inside. I can rush inside," Thibodeaux said. "He can rush from depth. I can rush from depth, being at that linebacker position. So can Abdul."We'll see how they mix it up. But we'll all be on the field at some point."There was some speculation that New York could trade Thibodeaux after selecting Carter. But the Giants instead picked up the fifth-year option on Thibodeaux's contract, tying him to the franchise through the 2026 campaign."It's another step. For me, it's just more fuel," Thibodeaux said. "Definitely blessed and humbled to be in a position to have another year in the league. ... I'm super blessed, super excited, energized. We have a great team, and we'll go do some good things."Thibodeaux has averaged just over eight sacks per season across three years in New York after the franchise drafted him with the fifth pick in 2022. He tallied a career-high 11.5 sacks in 2024 while starting every game. Thibodeaux missed time this past season with a wrist injury.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - SEPTEMBER 26: Kayvon Thibodeaux #5 of the New York Giants rushes the passer during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium on September 26, 2024 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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Giants' Thibodeaux 'super excited' to form pass rush with Carter

New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr is still undecided on whether he'll undergo surgery on ...

New Orleans Saints quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/22061" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/22061">Derek Carr</a> is still undecided on whether he'll undergo surgery on his injured throwing shoulder, but he's expected to make a decision soon, a source told <a href="https://x.com/SlaterNFL/status/1919900237096735006">NFL Network's Jane Slater</a>.Carr has met with the Saints' team doctor in recent weeks and is exploring his options, but he hopes to avoid surgery, Slater adds.The 34-year-old passer could reportedly miss the entire 2025 campaign due to a shoulder injury he suffered last season. There was confusion about the nature and cause of Carr's injury due to its timing as it was first reported in April, four months after his last game action.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Carr reportedly believes he suffered the injury in Week 14 last season against the New York Giants, the same contest in which he injured his left wrist. Carr missed the rest of the campaign after exiting that game early.However, he didn't notice the shoulder injury until he started throwing again this spring in his ramp-up for offseason work, Slater reports.Carr <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3276896" href="https://thescore.com/news/3276896">recently</a> criticized those questioning the legitimacy and timing of his injury, saying he has the "MRI report to prove it" and that he's been in constant communication with New Orleans about the situation.The Saints drafted quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210047" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210047">Tyler Shough</a> in the second round of last month's NFL draft after Carr's injury became public. New Orleans also has <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199980" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199980">Spencer Rattler</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188302" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188302">Jake Haener</a> on its QB depth chart.The team restructured Carr's contract in March for salary-cap reasons, converting a significant portion of his 2025 salary into a signing bonus. That made it unlikely the Saints would move on from him this offseason for financial reasons.The veteran quarterback is set to have a $69-million salary-cap hit in 2026 after New Orleans reworked his deal, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/player/derek-carr/2975">Over the Cap</a>.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - OCTOBER 13: Derek Carr #4 of the New Orleans Saints reacts against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during a game at Caesars Superdome on October 13, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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Report: Saints' Carr undecided on shoulder surgery

Washington will host the 2027 NFL Draft at the National Mall in D.C., the league announced Monday...

Washington will host the 2027 NFL Draft at the National Mall in D.C., the league announced Monday.Denver also submitted a bid to host the 2027 draft.Washington recently <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3276138" href="https://thescore.com/news/3276138">reached a deal</a> to return the franchise to D.C., with a new stadium planned to open in 2030. The team has played in Maryland since the 1997 season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>It's the latest move in a dramatic franchise turnaround since Josh Harris took over as owner in 2023. The Commanders made the NFC Championship Game last season for the first time in 33 years after drafting star quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199756" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199756">Jayden Daniels</a> and hiring head coach Dan Quinn.This year's event took place in Green Bay, while Pittsburgh is set to host the 2026 draft.

GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - APRIL 24: A general view of the video board on stage with the Washington Commanders 29th pick during the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft on April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

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Washington to host 2027 NFL Draft

Sovereignty pulled away from race favorite Journalism down the stretch to win the 151st Kentucky ...

Sovereignty pulled away from race favorite Journalism down the stretch to win the 151st Kentucky Derby on a muddy track at Churchill Downs.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
SOVEREIGNTY RULES THE 151st KENTUCKY DERBY! 🌹 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KyDerby?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KyDerby</a> <a href="https://t.co/WfLBrG4Zv4">pic.twitter.com/WfLBrG4Zv4</a>— NBC Sports (@NBCSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCSports/status/1918805905916744130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Sovereignty and jockey Junior Alvarado were neck and neck with Journalism and its jockey Umberto Rispoli before pulling away as the finish line approached.Rounding out the top three were Journalism and Baeza, the latter of which entered the field this week after Rodriguez was scratched. Final Gambit and Owen Almighty finished fourth and fifth, respectively.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Sovereignty had the fourth-lowest pre-race odds at 9-1. The morning-line favorite hasn't won the event since 2018.It's trainer Bill Mott's second career Kentucky Derby win after Country House won by disqualification at the 2019 Run for the Roses, the last time the Kentucky Derby was run amid rainy conditions.Here's how the $2 bets paid out based on the results Saturday: <figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>No.</th>
<th>Horse</th>
<th>Win</th>
<th>Place</th>
<th>Show</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>18</td>
<td>Sovereignty</td>
<td>$17.96</td>
<td>$7.50</td>
<td>$5.58</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Journalism</td>
<td></td>
<td>$4.94</td>
<td>$3.70</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>21</td>
<td>Baeza</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td>$8.38</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>And here's how the exotic wagers paid out: <figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th>Combo</th>
<th>Payout</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>$2 Exacta</td>
<td>18-8</td>
<td>$48.32</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>$1 Trifecta</td>
<td>18-8-21</td>
<td>$231.12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>$1 Superfecta</td>
<td>18-8-21-3</td>
<td>$1682.27</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>All 19 horses that ran in this year's race are descendants of 1973 Triple Crown winner Secretariat, according to sports business reporter <a href="https://x.com/JoePompliano/status/1918687263338189052">Joe Pompliano</a>.The 150th Preakness Stakes is the next Triple Crown event May 17 in Baltimore.

LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY - MAY 03: Jockey Junior Alvarado celebrates atop of Sovereignty #18 after winning the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs on May 03, 2025 in Louisville, Kentucky.

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Sovereignty pulls away to win Kentucky Derby

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Adam Thielen acknowledged retirement is a strong possibility foll...

Carolina Panthers wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/72566" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/72566">Adam Thielen</a> acknowledged retirement is a strong possibility following the 2025 campaign."It could be, yeah," Thielen said when asked if next season could be his last, per <a href="https://x.com/josephperson/status/1918303621193609450">The Athletic's Joe Person</a>. "I told you guys at the end of the season, like every year, you look back and you say, 'Hey, what left do I have to give to this game?'"I talked to my family, and they wanted me to keep playing. ... I'm not going to think about that right now. I'm gonna focus on being the best football player I can possibly be, and you have to have that mindset in this league."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Thielen turns 35 in August. He's entering his third season as a Panther after spending the first several years of his career with the Minnesota Vikings.The two-time Pro Bowler signed a three-year contract to join Carolina in 2023. The Panthers reportedly reworked his deal earlier this offseason to give him a pay raise for the 2025 season.Thielen said that although he's "definitely winding down" his career, he's excited about what Carolina can accomplish this season.Despite going 5-12 in 2024, Carolina's offense found its footing down the stretch following quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188155" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188155">Bryce Young</a>'s return to the starting role, particularly with the former No. 1 pick's connection with Thielen.Thielen led the Panthers in receiving yards for the second straight season despite missing seven contests due to a hamstring injury. He has 151 receptions, 1,629 yards, and nine touchdowns across 27 games with Carolina.The Panthers have continued to invest resources in improving Young's weapons this offseason, most notably using the eighth overall pick in this year's draft to select Arizona receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209929" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209929">Tetairoa McMillan</a>. The team previously took wideout <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199750" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199750">Xavier Legette</a> in the first round last year.Carolina also signed former Las Vegas Raiders receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/91051" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/91051">Hunter Renfrow</a> after he spent a year away from football <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3279270" href="https://thescore.com/news/3279270">while being treated</a> for ulcerative colitis.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - SEPTEMBER 22: Adam Thielen #19 of the Carolina Panthers warms up prior to a game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on September 22, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Panthers' Thielen says 2025 season 'could be' his last

The Saskatchewan Roughriders took Indiana quarterback Kurtis Rourke in the third round of the 202...

The Saskatchewan Roughriders took Indiana quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210200" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210200">Kurtis Rourke</a> in the third round of the 2025 CFL Draft.Rourke is unlikely to play in the CFL this season after being <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3257572" href="https://thescore.com/news/3257572">selected</a> in this year's NFL draft, going in the seventh round to the San Francisco 49ers.He was the second quarterback drafted after the Winnipeg Blue Bombers selected Laurier's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3277705" href="https://thescore.com/news/3277705">Taylor Elgersma</a>, who's also generating NFL interest. The CFL Scouting Bureau <a href="https://www.cfl.ca/2025/04/28/elic-ayomanor-vaults-to-top-spot-in-spring-edition-of-cfl-scouting-bureau/">ranked</a> Rourke the second overall player this year behind Stanford receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210119" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210119">Elic Ayomanor</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 24-year-old is the younger brother of BC Lions star passer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///cfl/players/204567" href="https://thescore.com/cfl/players/204567">Nathan Rourke</a>. Kurtis is currently recovering from offseason ACL surgery but is expected back for 49ers training camp later this summer.The Oakville, Ontario, native led Indiana to its first-ever College Football Playoff appearance last season and was named to the All-Big Ten second team. Rourke went 10-2 as a starter and completed 69.4% of his passes for 3,042 yards and 29 touchdowns against five interceptions.He won the 2024 Jon Cornish Trophy as the best Canadian player in NCAA football, an honor his brother earned in 2017 and '18.Rourke began his college career at Ohio in 2019 as a backup to his brother. He won the MAC Most Valuable Player award in 2022 during his second year as the team's starter. Rourke transferred to Indiana in 2024 after five seasons with the Bobcats.

SOUTH BEND, IN - DECEMBER 20: Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Kurtis Rourke (9) passes the ball during the CFP First Round game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish on December 20, 2024 at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana.

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Roughriders take Indiana QB Rourke in CFL draft

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers selected Laurier quarterback Taylor Elgersma in the second round of the...

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers selected Laurier quarterback Taylor Elgersma in the second round of the 2025 CFL Draft.Elgersma won last year's Hec Crighton Trophy as the most outstanding player in U Sports football and helped Laurier capture the Yates Cup as OUA champions.He was rated the second-best quarterback and 14th overall player by the <a href="https://www.cfl.ca/2025/04/28/elic-ayomanor-vaults-to-top-spot-in-spring-edition-of-cfl-scouting-bureau/">CFL Scouting Bureau</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The London, Ontario, native is generating interest from NFL teams after becoming the first Canadian QB ever to participate in the Senior Bowl, playing alongside prospects from American schools earlier this year. He also took part in Buffalo's pro day in March.Elgersma has received more than a dozen offers from NFL teams to attend rookie minicamp this year, including the Green Bay Packers and Buffalo Bills, sources told <a href="https://3downnation.com/2025/04/26/canadian-qb-taylor-elgersma-invited-to-rookie-mini-camps-with-green-bay-packers-buffalo-bills/">3DownNation's Justin Dunk</a>. The 23-year-old passer had a prolific four-year career with the Golden Hawks, completing 72% of his passes for 10,230 yards and 76 touchdowns against 28 interceptions.Franchise legend <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///cfl/players/62356" href="https://thescore.com/cfl/players/62356">Zach Collaros</a> has led Winnipeg to five straight Grey Cup appearances but is turning 37 during the 2025 season. The Blue Bombers' quarterback depth chart also features <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///cfl/players/197580" href="https://thescore.com/cfl/players/197580">Chris Streveler</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///cfl/players/197563" href="https://thescore.com/cfl/players/197563">Terry Wilson</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///cfl/players/208432" href="https://thescore.com/cfl/players/208432">Jake Dolegala</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///cfl/players/208764" href="https://thescore.com/cfl/players/208764">Shea Patterson</a>.Winnipeg used its first-round selection on Wyoming linebacker Connor Shay.

KINGSTON, CANADA - NOVEMBER 23: Taylor Elgersma #13 of Laurier Golden Hawks looks on during the second quarter against the Laval Rouge et Or during the 2024 Vanier Cup at Richardson Memorial Stadium on November 23, 2024 in Kingston, Ontario, Canada.

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Blue Bombers draft Laurier QB Elgersma

The Calgary Stampeders selected former Utah and Syracuse wide receiver Damien Alford with the fir...

The Calgary Stampeders selected former Utah and Syracuse wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/152890" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/152890">Damien Alford</a> with the first overall pick in the 2025 CFL Draft.The Montreal native spent the 2024 season with the Utes after playing his first four collegiate seasons with the Orange.Alford was rated the seventh-best prospect in the spring <a href="http://www.cfl.ca/2025/04/28/elic-ayomanor-vaults-to-top-spot-in-spring-edition-of-cfl-scouting-bureau/">CFL Scouting Bureau rankings</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He also accepted an invitation to attend the Kansas City Chiefs' rookie minicamp this summer and turned down offers from other NFL teams, sources told <a href="https://3downnation.com/2025/04/27/canadian-receiver-damien-alford-accepts-rookie-mini-camp-invite-from-kansas-city-chiefs/">3DownNation's Justin Dunk</a>.The 6-foot-5, 224-pound wideout ran a blazing 4.46 40-yard dash at this year's Big 12 pro day. He didn't participate in the CFL combine.Alford recorded 67 receptions for 1,291 yards and seven touchdowns during his time at Syracuse. He failed to record a catch in 2024 after transferring to Utah. The 23-year-old originally planned to transfer to Florida Atlantic for the 2025 season before re-entering the CFL draft.Stampeders head coach Dave Dickenson said the team is trying to surround new quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///cfl/players/208653" href="https://thescore.com/cfl/players/208653">Vernon Adams Jr.</a> "with as many weapons as possible," according to <a href="https://www.tsn.ca/talent/cfl/salim-valji-damien-alford-ready-to-work-with-stampeders-qb-vernon-adams-jr-1.2297855">TSN's Salim Valji</a>."Vernon loves big receivers," Dickenson added.Alford joins a receiving corps that features <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///cfl/players/170896" href="https://thescore.com/cfl/players/170896">Reggie Begelton</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///cfl/players/174450" href="https://thescore.com/cfl/players/174450">Jalen Philpot</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///cfl/players/208726" href="https://thescore.com/cfl/players/208726">Dominique Rhymes</a>, among others.Calgary last had the top pick in the 2014 draft.

SYRACUSE, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 25: Damien Alford #5 of the Syracuse Orange lines up during the fourth quarter against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at JMA Wireless Dome on November 25, 2023 in Syracuse, New York.

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Stampeders select Damien Alford with No. 1 pick in CFL draft

The Atlanta Falcons apologized to Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders after one of defen...

The Atlanta Falcons apologized to Cleveland Browns quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210099" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210099">Shedeur Sanders</a> after one of defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich's sons was revealed to be responsible for a prank phone call to Sanders during the draft.The Falcons said in a statement Sunday that Ulbrich's 21-year-old son, Jax, obtained the confidential phone number from an iPad at his parents' house, and the coordinator was unaware of his son's actions until afterward."The Atlanta Falcons do not condone this behavior and send our sincere apologies to Shedeur Sanders and his family, who we have been in contact with to apologize to, as well as facilitate an apology directly from Jax to the Sanders family," the Falcons <a href="https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/1916584444015546444">said</a> in a statement.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>While waiting to hear his name called, Sanders received a call from an unidentified friend of Jax, who falsely introduced himself as New Orleans Saints general manager Mickey Loomis and said the team would select Sanders with its next pick.Sanders responded that he'd "been waiting" to hear from him amid his unexpected free fall in the draft."You're going to have to wait a little bit longer, man," the caller said before hanging up on Sanders.Sanders was visibly confused after the call. The Saints then drafted Louisville's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210047" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210047">Tyler Shough</a> with the 40th selection. Sanders, 23, later said the phone he was using was sent to him specifically for the draft and that only NFL teams knew its number."On Friday night, I made a tremendous mistake. Shedeur, what I did was completely inexcusable, embarrassing, and shameful," Jax said in an Instagram story accessed by <a href="https://x.com/Schultz_Report/status/1916587617061163061">Fox Sports' Jordan Schultz</a>.New Indianapolis Colts tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209918" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209918">Tyler Warren</a> also received a prank call during the draft when the New York Jets were on the clock with the seventh overall pick, according to <a href="https://x.com/Schultz_Report/status/1916539506099978524"> Schultz</a>.Philadelphia Eagles defensive back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199825" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199825">Cooper DeJean</a> had a similar experience during last year's draft. He said he was pranked several times before the Eagles selected him with the 40th overall pick."It is what it is. I think, of course, it is childish," Sanders said during his introductory press conference with the Browns, according to <a href="https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/the-shedeur-sanders-prank-call-raises-a-question-who-leaked-the-phone-number">Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio</a>. "Of course, I feel like it was a childish act, but everybody does childish things here and there."Cleveland head coach Kevin Stefanski called the situation "sad," according to team broadcaster <a href="https://x.com/AndrewSiciliano/status/1916206703269339193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1916206703269339193%7Ctwgr%5Ec44a7390705f992877868ae12ea09acc0fa63373%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.si.com%2Fnfl%2Fbrowns-kevin-stefanski-rips-morons-prank-called-shedeur-sanders-draft-fall">Andrew Siciliano</a>."People are morons," he said.The Browns selected Sanders in the fifth round with the 144th overall pick. He had been viewed as a likely first-round pick by analysts and fans entering the draft. He was the sixth quarterback taken and the second by Cleveland after the team drafted <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209984" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209984">Dillon Gabriel</a> in Round 3.It's unclear why Sanders dropped so far, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3275397" href="https://thescore.com/news/3275397">he acknowledged</a> afterward that he could've gone about the pre-draft process "a different way."

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - FEBRUARY 28: Shedeur Sanders #QB13 of Colorado speaks at the podium during the 2025 NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center on February 28, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Son of Falcons DC behind Shedeur prank call

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